ES2615355T3 - Indoor unit of air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

An indoor unit (2) of an air conditioner (1), comprising: a housing (60) provided with an opening (27) in the front part thereof; a mobile panel (72) provided so as to cover the opening (27) and configured to open the opening (27) by moving away from the opening (27) and to close the opening (27) by moving closer to the opening (27); a drive portion (41) configured to generate a drive force to move the movable panel (72); and an opening and closing element (68) that includes: a driving force transmission portion (680) for transmitting the driving force of the driving portion (41) to the mobile panel (72); and characterized by: a plate element (681) provided outside the drive force transmission portion (680) and configured to cover a gap between the movable panel (72) and the housing (60) in a state in which The mobile panel (72) is open.

Description

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DESCRIPTION

Indoor unit of air conditioner Technical field

The present invention relates to an indoor unit of an air conditioner.

Background of the technique

Some indoor units of air conditioners are equipped with a housing that has an opening provided on the front of it and a mobile panel. Said mobile panel is provided in such a way that it covers the opening of the housing, and the mobile panel opens the opening when moving away from the opening and closes the opening when moving near the opening. In addition, to move the mobile panel in this way, the indoor units of the air conditioners are often provided with a drive portion and a drive force transmission portion, such as a gear and a cam for transmitting a drive force. from the actuation portion to the mobile panel (see Patent Document 1). Through the transmission portion of the driving force, a driving force is transmitted from the driving portion to the mobile panel, and the mobile panel is opened and closed.

Patent Document 1

Japanese utility model published No. H07-12821.

EP 1 271 065 discloses an air conditioner. The preamble of claim 1 is based on this document.

Disclosure of the invention

However, with the type of indoor air conditioner unit described above, there is a risk that a person's hand is close to the drive force transmission portion. In other words, when there is a gap between the mobile panel in an open state and the housing, there is a risk that a person puts his hand near the portion of transmission of driving force from the hole and that the hand can touch the portion of drive force transmission.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner that can improve safety in relation to the opening and closing movements of a mobile panel.

An indoor air conditioner unit according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a housing, a movable panel, a drive portion, and an opening and closing element. The housing is provided with an opening in its front part. The mobile panel is provided so that it covers the opening, and the mobile panel opens the opening when moving away from the opening and closes the opening when moving near the opening. The drive portion generates a drive force to move the mobile panel. The opening and closing element has a drive force transmission portion and a plate element. The drive force transmission portion transmits the drive force from the drive portion to the mobile panel. The plate element is provided outside the drive force transmission portion, and covers a gap between the mobile panel and the housing when the mobile panel is in an open state.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the opening and closing element has a plate element, which is provided outside the drive force transmission portion and covers the gap between the mobile panel and the housing when the mobile panel is In the open state. Consequently, when the mobile panel is in the open state, the plate element makes it difficult for a person to insert their hand into the gap between the housing and the mobile panel and, therefore, it is possible to reduce the risk of a person touch the drive force transmission portion with his hand. Therefore, with this indoor unit of the air conditioner, safety can be improved in relation to the opening and closing movements of the mobile panel.

An indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a second aspect of the present invention is the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the first aspect, in which the opening and closing element supports the mobile panel and moves the panel moving away from the opening protruding forward from the housing.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the opening and closing element that supports the mobile panel opens the mobile panel protruding forward from the housing. When the mobile panel moves in the manner described above, a relatively large gap is created between the housing and the mobile panel, and there is a great risk that a person will insert his hand into the hole. However, with this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the plate element reduces the risk of a person touching the drive force transmission portion with his hand and, therefore, safety can be improved.

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An indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a third aspect of the present invention is the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the first or second aspect, in which the plate element supports the mobile panel, and move the mobile panel away from the opening protruding forward from the housing.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the plate element supports the mobile panel, and moves the mobile panel away from the opening protruding forward from the housing. Consequently, with this indoor unit of the air conditioner, it is not necessary to separately provide an element to support the mobile panel, and thus the number of components can be reduced.

An indoor unit of the air conditioner according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any one of the first to the third aspects, in which the transmission portion of driving force and the Plate element are provided comprehensively.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the drive force transmission portion and the plate element are provided integrally. Consequently, in the opening movement of the mobile panel, the plate element moves with the movement of the drive force transmission portion. As a result, the gap between the mobile panel in the open state and the housing can be covered by the plate element.

An indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any of the first to fourth aspects, in which the portion of transmission of driving force and The plate element are integrally molded.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the drive force transmission portion and the plate element are integrally molded. Consequently, with this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the number of components can be reduced.

An indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to any of the first to fifth aspects, in which the opening and closing element is provided adjacent to each inner surface of both sides of the housing.

With this indoor unit of the air conditioner, the opening and closing element is provided adjacent to each inner surface of both sides of the housing. Consequently, it will be difficult for a person to insert their hand into the housing from both sides of it. As a result, with this indoor unit of the air conditioner, safety can be further enhanced.

Brief description of the figures

Figure 1 is a view of a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner.

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of an indoor unit.

Figure 3 (a) is a front view of the indoor unit.

Figure 3 (b) is a cross-sectional side view of the indoor unit.

Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the fences of a left side end of the indoor unit.

Figure 5 is a side view of a drive machine.

Figure 6 is a view of a front grille assembly seen from the reverse side.

Figure 7 is a side view of a first opening or closing mechanism.

Figure 8 is a view showing the opening and closing movements of a first panel and a second panel.

Figure 9 is a flow chart showing a method for mounting the indoor unit.

Description of the reference symbols

1 air conditioner

2 indoor unit

27 first intake port (opening)

41 drive machine (drive portion)

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60 front grille (housing)

68 second panel support element (opening and closing element)

72 second panel (mobile panel)

680 second gear portion (drive force transmission portion)

681 plate element

Best way to carry out the invention

Complete configuration of the air conditioner

Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the configuration of the air conditioner 1 and a refrigerant circuit thereof according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

This air conditioner 1 comprises an indoor unit 2, which is fixed to the surface of a wall or the like in the room, and an outdoor unit 3 installed outside.

This refrigerant circuit of this air conditioner 1 mainly comprises an internal heat exchanger 20, an accumulator 31, a compressor 32, a four-way switching machine 33, an external heat exchanger 30, and an expansion valve 34 actuated by engine.

This indoor heat exchanger 20 provided within the indoor unit 2 exchanges heat with the air with which it comes into contact. In addition, the indoor unit 2 is provided with an indoor fan 21 that absorbs the room air, passes the air through the indoor heat exchanger 20 for heat exchange, and then discharges the air into the room. The indoor fan 21 is rotatably driven by an indoor fan motor 22 provided within the indoor unit 2. The configuration of the indoor unit 2 will be described in detail later.

The outdoor unit 3 comprises the compressor 32, the four-way switching valve 33 connected to a discharge side of the compressor 32, the accumulator 31 connected to an intake side of the compressor 32, the external heat exchanger 30 connected to the valve Four-way switching 33, and the engine-operated expansion valve 34 connected to the external heat exchanger 30. This motor-operated expansion valve 34 is connected to a pipe 23 through a liquid cutting valve 36, and is connected to one end of the internal heat exchanger 20 through this pipe. In addition, the four-way switching valve 33 is connected to a pipe 24 through a gas cutting valve 37, and is connected to the other end of the internal heat exchanger 20 through this pipe 24. In addition, the unit 3 external is provided with an external fan 38 to discharge air externally after its heat has been exchanged by the external heat exchanger 30. The outer fan 38 is rotatably driven by an outer fan motor 39.

Indoor unit configuration

Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the indoor unit 2.

The indoor unit 2 is a wall-mounted indoor unit, which is installed on a side wall of the room, and the indoor unit 2 mainly comprises a main body part 4, an outlet assembly 5, a housing assembly 6 front grille, and a front 7 panel.

Main body part

The main body part 4 has the inner heat exchanger 20, the inner fan 21 (see Figure 1), the inner fan motor 22 (see Figure 1), a box 40 of electrical components, a drive machine 41 (see Figure 4), and a main body housing 42.

Indoor heat exchanger, indoor fan, indoor fan motor, electrical component box

The inner heat exchanger 20, the inner fan 21, and the inner fan motor 22 are mounted in the main body housing 42. As shown in Figure 3 (b), for the indoor heat exchanger 20 and the indoor fan 21 in the side view, the indoor fan 21 is provided in the center of the indoor unit 2, and the indoor heat exchanger 20 which has an inverted V shape is provided so that it covers an upper half of the inner fan 21. In addition, the inner fan motor 22 (not shown) is provided on a right side of the inner fan 21 in the front view. Note that Figure 3 (b) is a cross-sectional side view of the indoor unit 2.

As shown in Figure 2, the electrical component box 40 is mounted in the main body housing 42, and is provided on the right side of the indoor heat exchanger 20, the inner fan 21, and the inner fan motor 22 in front view. The box 40 of electrical components houses inside a plate of

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control, and the control board controls each component necessary for the heating and cooling operations and the like of the indoor unit 2.

Drive machine

As shown in Figure 4, the drive machine 41 is provided near a left side end of the main body housing 42, and generates a driving force to move the front panel 7. As shown in Figure 5, the drive machine 41 includes a panel opening and closing motor 43, a first drive gear 44, a second drive gear 45, and a drive housing 46.

The panel opening and closing motor 43 is connected to a control component housed in the electrical component box 40 through a cable 430 and serves as a source of the driving force to move the front panel 7.

The first drive gear 44 transmits the rotation of the panel opening and closing motor 43 to the second drive gear 45.

The second drive gear 45 has a portion that is exposed from the drive housing 46, and is provided so that it engages a power transmission gear 66 (see Figure 6) included in an opening and closing mechanism 61 , in a state in which a front grille 60 (housing) is mounted to the main body housing 42. Accordingly, by mounting the main grid 60 to the main body part 4 and fixing the drive machine 41 to a fixing portion 62 described below (see Figure 4), the second drive gear 45 can be easily coupled to the power transmission gear 66. The second drive gear 45 transmits the rotation of the panel opening and closing motor 43 through the first drive gear 44 to the power transmission gear 66, and transmits the driving force of the panel opening and closing motor 43 to the opening and closing mechanism 61.

The drive housing 46 houses the panel opening and closing motor 43, the first drive gear 44, and the second drive gear 45 mentioned above. In addition, the drive housing 46 includes a locking hole 461 and a fixed portion 462.

The locking hole 461 is an opening, which is provided in the drive housing 46, and into which a locking clip 490 would be inserted into the main body housing 42 shown in Figure 4. Two locking holes 461 are provided in the drive housing 46, and each of them is larger than the locking clip 490. Consequently, in a state in which the locking clips 490 are inserted in the locking holes 461, the drive machine 41 is not completely fixed in an immovable manner, but that the drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed in A slightly movable way. Therefore, when the normal fixation of the drive machine 41, which is carried out after the temporary fixation, is carried out, it is possible to easily position the drive machine 41.

The fixed portion 462 is a portion configured to be fixed to the fixing portion 62 of the front grille 60, and has a screw hole. The fixed portion 462 is screwed to the fixing portion 62 provided in the front grille 60. Unlike the temporary fixing between the locking hole 461 and the locking clip 490, the fixing between the fixed portion 462 and the fixing portion 62 is a fixation for securely fixing the drive machine 41 to the front grille 60 to prevent the drive machine 41 from moving.

Main body housing

The main body housing 42 is provided with the internal heat exchanger 20, the internal fan 21, the internal fan motor 22, the electrical component box 40, and the drive machine 41. The internal heat exchanger 20, the internal fan 21, the internal fan motor 22 the electrical component box 40 are fixed to the main body housing 42, and the drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed thereto. The main body housing 42 is molded from a resin material having a shape that covers the lower and rear portions and the left side portion of the inner fan 21. As shown in Figure 4, the main body housing 42 includes an inner fan housing 47, a rear portion 48, and a left side portion 29. Note that in Figure 4, views of the interior heat exchanger 20 and the interior fan 21 are omitted to facilitate understanding.

The inner fan housing 47 is a portion that houses the inner fan 21 and the inner fan motor 22, and the inner fan housing 47 supports the inner heat exchanger 20 that is mounted from above the inner fan 21. The inner fan motor 22 to be provided on the right side of the inner fan 21 is fixed at a portion close to the right side end of the inner fan housing 47, and the electrical component box 40 is fixed to the right side plus far away from it (see Figure 2). A lower portion of the inner fan housing 47 is a portion to which the outlet assembly 5 is fixed, and the lower portion is provided with an opening (not shown) that communicates with a space in which the fan is housed. twenty-one

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inside. As a result of mounting the outlet assembly 5 to the lower portion of the inner fan housing 47, the space of the inner fan housing 47, in which the inner fan 21 is housed, will communicate with the outlet 26 (see Figure 3 (b)).

The rear portion 48 covers the rear of the indoor fan 21 and the indoor heat exchanger 20, and closes a rear side of the indoor unit 2.

The left side portion 49 is a portion to which the drive machine 41 will be temporarily fixed. The left side portion 49 is provided near a left side end of the inner fan housing 47, and is provided so that it is oriented to the left side ends of the inner fan 21 and the inner heat exchanger 20, which are mounted to the inner fan housing 47. A left side surface of the left side portion 49 is provided with the locking clip 490, with which the drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed. Two locking clips 490 are provided so that they correspond to the locking holes 461, and the locking clips 490 protrude from the left side surface of the left side portion 49 to the left, in other words, the locking clips 490 protrude from the left side portion 49 to the side opposite the inner fan 21. The drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed to the main body housing 42 with the locking clips 490, before the front grille 60 is mounted to the main body housing 42. Each locking hole 461 in the drive machine 41, into which each locking clip 490 will be inserted, is formed so that it is larger than the locking clip 490, as described above. Accordingly, the drive machine 41, which is in a state of being temporarily fixed with the locking clips 490 and the locking holes 461, is temporarily fixed in a slightly movable manner. When the drive machine 41 is fixed with the fixing portion 62 on the front grille 60 described below, the drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed with the locking clip 490 so that the drive machine 41 is capable of move to a position where the drive machine 41 will be fixed to the fixing portion 62.

Output set

The output assembly 5 shown in Figure 2 is mounted to the main body part 4 and configures the output 26 (see Figure 3 (b)). The outlet 26 configured by the outlet assembly 5 is an opening through which the air that has passed through the interior heat exchanger 20 passes and is driven outwardly into the room by the interior fan 21. Exit 26 has a horizontally long shape in the front view. In addition, the outlet 26 is provided near a lower portion of the indoor unit 2 and the front of the indoor unit 2. When the indoor unit 2 is turned off, the outlet 26 is closed by means of a first panel 71 of the front panel 7, which will be described later.

The output assembly 5 has a horizontal tongue 50 and a tongue motor 51 (see Figure 4). The horizontal tab 50 has a shape similar to a plate that is elongated in the longitudinal direction of the indoor unit 2, and draws the air that is driven from the outlet 26. The horizontal tab 50 has an axis of rotation that is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the indoor unit 2, and when driven by the tongue motor 51 and rotated about the axis of rotation, the horizontal tongue 50 modifies the direction of the air according to which the air is guided. Furthermore, when moving so that it is parallel to the horizontal plane, the horizontal tab 50 configures the base of the indoor unit 2, the base being parallel to the horizontal plane.

Front grille set

The front grille assembly 6 is mounted on the main body part 4 from the front, and covers the front and side surfaces of the main body part 4. The front grille assembly 6 has a front grille 60 and the opening and closing mechanism 61.

Front grille

The front grid 60 is molded from a resin material, and has a shape that is thin and generally rectangular rectangular with the entire rear side open. The front grid 60 has a shape that is elongated horizontally and generally rectangular in front view, and has a cross-sectional shape that is long in a top-down direction and generally rectangular in the side view. The front grill 60 is mounted to the main body part 4 so that it covers a front portion, left and right side portions, and upper and lower portions of the main body part 4. In addition, the front grill 60 is provided with the intake portion 25 and the outlet portion 29.

The intake portion 25 is provided with an opening through which the air that is absorbed from inside the room into the indoor unit 2 passes through the indoor fan 21, and the intake portion 25 has a first port 27 (opening) of admission and a second port 28 of admission. The first intake port 27 is provided through a portion that goes from near the center of the front part of the front grille 60 to an upper portion thereof, and is provided so that it is oriented towards a front side of the exchanger 20 inside heat. When the indoor unit 2 is turned off, the first intake port 27 is closed by means of a second panel 72 (mobile panel) of the front panel 7, which will be described later. The second intake port 28

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it is configured by a plurality of grooves that are elongated in the longitudinal direction of the front grid 60, and is provided at the top of the front grid 60.

The output portion 29 is an opening provided in a lower portion of the front grill 60, and together with the output assembly 5, the output portion 29 configures the output 26. The output portion 29 is closed by the first panel 71 of the front panel 7, which will be described later.

Also, as shown in Figure 4, the fixing portion 62 is provided on the front of the front grille 60. The fixing portion 62 is a portion where the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41 will be fixed temporarily, and the fixing portion 62 has a screw hole. The screw hole is provided near a left side end of the front part of the front grill 60, and is provided in a position that is generally oriented to a screw hole in the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41 which It is temporarily fixed to the main body part 4. However, in the temporary fixing stage, the screw hole of the fixed portion 462 and the screw hole of the fixing portion 62 do not have to completely coincide with each other. Instead, in the normal setting stage in which the fixed portion 462 and the fixing portion 62 are fixed, the drive machine 41 that is being temporarily fixed can simply be moved so that the screw hole of the portion 462 fixed coincides with the screw hole of the fixing portion 62. The fixing portion 62 and the fixing portion 462 are fixed by threading a screw through the screw hole in the fixed portion 462 and the screw hole of the fixing portion 62.

In portions close to both lateral ends of the front part of the front grille 60, grooves 600 to 603 are provided that extend in a top-down direction. These slots 600 to 603 are provided so that there are a total of four, two on the left and two on the right, separated above and below. Of these slots 600 to 603, portions of a first panel support member 67 and a second panel support member 68 (opening and closing element) protrude, which will be described later. The first panel 71 and the second panel 72 of the front panel 7 are respectively fixed to the aforementioned portions of the first panel support member 67 and the second panel support member 68.

Opening and closing mechanism

The opening and closing mechanism 61 shown in Figure 2 is a mechanism for moving the front panel 7 by the driving force of the driving machine 41 to open and close the first intake port 27 and the outlet 26. The opening and closing mechanism 61 is configured by a plurality of elements that have a gear portion. The opening and closing mechanism 61 functions as a speed reduction mechanism that transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the first panel 71 and the second panel 72. In addition, the opening and closing mechanism 61 functions as a mechanism of conversion that converts a rotary movement transmitted from the drive machine 41 into the opening and closing movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72. As shown in Figure 6, the opening and closing mechanism 61 is provided in the rear of the front grill 60, and has a first opening and closing mechanism 63, a second opening and closing mechanism 64, and a power transmission shaft 65.

The first opening and closing mechanism 63 is mounted to the rear of the left side surface of the front panel 7, and supports a portion close to the left side end of the first panel 71 and a portion close to the left side side of the second panel 72, that will be described later. Note that "left-right" means aqrn "left-right" when the indoor unit 2 is viewed from a front view, and as Figure 6 shows the front grille 60 viewed from the reverse side, the left-right in Figure 6 It is inverted with respect to the front view. When the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are opened and closed, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the portion near the left side end of the first panel 71 and to the nearby portion to the left side end of the second panel 72, so that these portions move. This will result in the opening and closing movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72.

The second opening and closing mechanism 64 is mounted on the back of a right side surface of the front panel 7, and supports a portion close to a right side end of the first panel 71 and a portion close to a right side end of the second panel 72, which will be described later. When the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are opened and closed, the second opening and closing mechanism 64 transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the portion near the right side end of the first panel 71 and to the nearby portion to the right side end of the second panel 72, so that these portions will move. This will result in the opening and closing movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72.

The power transmission shaft 65 is an element for distributing and transmitting the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64. The power transmission shaft 65 is mounted on the rear of the front of the first front grill 60 so that it can freely rotate about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction of the indoor unit 2. Both ends of the power transmission shaft 65 are connected respectively to the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64, and the gear 66 is provided between them.

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power transmission. The power transmission gear 66 is provided near the first opening and closing mechanism 63, and is provided such that it engages the second drive gear 45 of the drive machine 41 in a state where the front grille 60 is mounted on the main body part 4. In this way, the opening and closing mechanism 61 is configured so that, by means of the power transmission shaft 65, it distributes the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second mechanism 64 Opening and closing.

The configuration of the first opening and closing mechanism 63 is described in detail below; It should be mentioned that the structure of the second opening and closing mechanism 64 is symmetrical to that of the first opening and closing mechanism 63.

As shown in Figure 7, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 has a first opening and closing gear 630, a second opening and closing gear 631, the first panel support element 67, and the support element 68 of second panel. In addition, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 has a first opening and closing mechanism housing 69 to accommodate these gears and elements, and is formed as a unit.

The first opening and closing gear 630 is fixed to one end of the power transmission shaft 65, and transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41, which is transmitted through the power transmission shaft 65, to the second gear 631 opening and closing.

The second opening and closing gear 631 is coupled to the first opening and closing gear 630, a first gear portion 670 of the first panel support member 67, and a second gear portion 680 (driving force transmission portion) of the second panel support element 68, and transmits the driving force transmitted from the first opening and closing gear 630 to both the support element 67 of the first panel and the support element 68 of the second panel.

The support element 67 of the first panel, which is fixed to the first panel 71, is a first flat plate-shaped element that supports the first panel 71. The first panel support element 67 is provided so that it can be moved in a direction from top to bottom, and is capable of moving the first panel 71 linearly in a direction from top to bottom. The first panel support member 67 has a straight portion 671 in a linear fashion, which extends parallel to an up and down direction, and a curved portion 672, which curves from a lower portion of the straight portion 671 in the direction to the front of the indoor unit 2. Also, the curved portion 672 has a tip portion that projects forward of the front grille 60 through the slot 601 provided on the front of the front grille 60 (see Figure 4). At this tip portion of the curved portion 672 the portion near the left side end of the first panel 71 is fixed. Also, in the straight portion 671, the first gear portion 670 is provided. The first gear portion 670 is a rack gear that extends in a top-down direction, and converts a rotary movement of the second opening and closing gear 631 into a linear movement according to a top-down direction. As a result, the rotary movement of the drive machine 41 is converted into the linear movement of the first panel 71 in a top-down direction.

The second panel support element 68, which is mounted to the second panel 72, is a flat plate-shaped element that supports the second panel 72. The second panel support element 68 is provided so that it can move in one direction from front to back, and is able to move the second panel 72 in a direction from front to back. In more detail, the second panel support member 68 describes a smooth circular arc as it travels in a direction from front to back. In other words, when the second panel 72 moves forward, the second panel 72 moves so that its upper end tilts forward, while when the second panel 72 moves backward, the second panel 72 moves from so that the upper end that leaned forward will return to its original position and the second panel 72 will be parallel to a top-down direction (see Figure 8). The second panel support member 68 is integrally molded from a resin material, and has the second gear portion 680 and a plate member 681.

The second gear portion 680 is provided so that it protrudes from inside the plate member 681, and is coupled to the second opening and closing gear 631. The second gear portion 680 is a rack gear that extends in a forward-backward direction that describes a smooth circular arc. The second gear portion 680 converts the rotary movement of the second opening and closing gear 631 into a circular arc movement and transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41 to the second panel 72.

The plate element 681 is provided on the outer sides (left sides) of the first opening and closing gear 630, the second opening and closing gear 631, and the first panel support member 67. The plate element 681 covers the outer sides of the first opening and closing gear 630, the second opening and closing gear 631, and the first panel support member 67. A front end of the panel element 681 protrudes forward through the slot 600 that is provided on a front surface of the front panel 7. The portion near the left side end of the second panel 72 is fixed to this front end and thus the portion near the left side of the second panel 72 is supported. The plate element 681 moves in a manner

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which describes a smooth circular arc as mentioned above by the driving force of the driving machine 41 transmitted to the second gear portion 680. As for the opening movement of the second panel 72, the plate element 681 moves the second panel 72 away from the first intake port 27 causing it to protrude further forward through the slot 600 of the second grid 60. Specifically, as to the state Open from the second panel 72, the plate element 681 protrudes a great deal forward from the groove 600 of the front grille 60 and covers the sides of a gap between the second panel 72 and the front grille 60 (see Figure 8). As a result, the plate member 681 can prevent an occupant of the room from inserting his hand into the gap between the second panel 72 and the front grille 60 from one side of the gap. In addition, since the plate element 681 is located on the outer sides of the second gear portion 680, the first opening and closing gear 630, and the second opening and closing gear 631, and the like, an occupant of the room touches the second gear portion 680, the first opening and closing gear 630, the second opening and closing gear, and the like, with your hand.

Front panel

As shown in Figure 3 (a), a front panel 7 generally covers the entire front part of the front grill 60. The front panel 7 covers the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27 in the front view, and opens and closes the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27. The front panel 7 is a panel unit, which is an aggregation of a plurality of panels without joints, and the front panel 7 has the first panel 71, the second panel 72 and a third panel 73.

First panel

The first panel 71 is provided movably in the front lower portion of the front grill 60 so that it can open and close the outlet 26, and the first panel 71 is provided so that it covers the outlet 26. The first panel 71 is supported in the portions near both right and left ends thereof by the opening and closing mechanism 61 so that it can move in parallel to a top-down direction, and the first panel 71 opens and closes the exit 26. The first panel 71 is an element that has a rectangular flat plate shape without joints, and its width is substantially equal to the width W of the front grid 60 in front view. The front side of the first panel 71 is formed with a generally flat shape with a smooth texture without a concave or convex portion, opening such as a hole, or the like. As shown in Figure 3 (a) and Figure 8 (a), this first panel 71 is parallel to an address from top to bottom in a state in which the outlet 26 is closed by the first panel 71. In addition, In this state the first panel 71 has an area that protrudes that is larger than the outlet 26 in the front view. Consequently, in the state in which the outlet 26 is closed by the first panel 71, the first panel 71 completely covers the lower front portion of the front grid 60 including the outlet 26. In addition, the first panel 71 is molded from a transparent resin mixed with luminous particles such as pearl particles, and the first panel 71 has a transparent resin layer mixed with said particles. Also, on the back of the transparent resin layer, a paint layer is provided on which a scheme, color pattern and the like is applied. This paint layer is formed by applying paint on the back of the first panel 71. Thus, the first panel 71 has a highly attractive design. Being provided in the front part where it is easily visible by an occupant of the room, the first panel 71 functions as a design panel that improves the design of the indoor unit 2.

Second panel

The second panel 72 is formed as a body separated from the first panel 71. The second panel 72 is provided movably in an upper front portion of the front grill 60 so that it opens and closes the first intake port 27, and the second panel 72 is provided so that it covers the first intake port 27. The second panel 72 is supported in the portions near both right and left ends thereof by the opening and closing mechanism 61 so that it can move in a direction from front to back. The second panel 72 opens the first intake port 27 away from the first intake port 27 and closes the first admission port 27 as it approaches the first intake port 27. The second panel 72 is an element of a rectangular flat plate shape without joints, and in the front view the width thereof is substantially equal to the width W of the front grid 60 including the first intake port 27. The front side of the second panel 72 is formed with a generally flat shape with a smooth texture without a concave or convex portion, opening such as a hole, or the like. As shown in Figure 3 (a) and Figure 8 (a), this second panel 72 will be parallel to an address from top to bottom in the state in which the first intake port 27 is closed by the second panel 72. In addition, the second panel has an outstanding area that is larger than the first intake port 27 in the front view. Consequently, in the state in which the first intake port 27 is closed by the second panel 72, the second panel 72 completely covers the entire upper front portion of the front grill 60 including the first intake port 27. Furthermore, as in the case with the first panel 71, the second panel 72 is molded from a transparent resin mixed with luminous particles such as pearl particles, and the first panel 71 has a transparent resin layer mixed with such particles. Also, on the back of the transparent resin layer, a paint layer is provided to which a pattern, color scheme, and the like is applied. This paint layer is formed by applying paint on the back of the second panel 72. Thus, the second panel 72 has highly attractive design. Being provided on the front where it is easily seen

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by the occupant of a room, the second panel 72 functions as a design panel that improves the design of the indoor unit 2.

Third panel

The third panel 73 is provided between the first panel 71 and the second panel 72. The third panel 73 has a rectangular shape without joints in the front view. The third panel 73 has a width W that is substantially equal to that of the front grill 60, and has a length in a top-down direction that is substantially equal to that of the first panel 71. The front side of the third panel 73 is formed with a generally flat shape with a smooth texture without a concave or convex portion, opening such as a hole, or the like. As shown in Figure 8 (a), the portions near the left and right ends of the third panel 73 are fixed respectively to the left and right side surfaces of the front grill 60, and the third panel 73 is provided in such a way. so that a portion of the front surface thereof is separated from the front of the front grille 60 in a direction from front to back. In other words, a gap is formed behind the front surface portion of the third panel 73 between it and the front grille 60. This gap is formed so that it is slightly greater than the thickness of the first panel 71 provided below, and the gap serves as a space to accommodate the first panel 71 that moves to open the outlet 26. In addition, the third panel 73 is molded. from an opaque resin material.

Thus, in the state in which the outlet 26 is closed by the first panel 71, the first panel 71 completely covers the lower front portion of the front grill 60 including the outlet 26, and in the state in which the first port Inlet 26 is closed by the second panel 72, the second panel 72 completely covers the upper front portion of the front grille 60 including the first intake port 27. In addition, the first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the third panel 73 are provided such that they are aligned above and below each other. In the state in which the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27 are closed, they are provided so that they form a rectangular plane in general plane. In the state in which the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27 are closed, the front panel 7 configured by the first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the third panel 73 generally covers the entire front part of the unit 2 inside, and only the joints created at the edges of the first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the third panel 73 are visible. In other words, only horizontally extended joints created at the edge are visible in the front view between the first panel 71 and the third panel 73 and on the edge between the second panel 72 and the third panel 73. In addition, the first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the third panel 73 are parallel in a top-down direction , and in the state in which the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27 are closed by the front panel 7, the front panel 7 forms a flat surface that is parallel to a top-down direction. With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner, as the front panel 7 is formed so that it has a flat shape, the aesthetic appearance is improved.

Front panel movement at the beginning of the operation

When the indoor unit 2 is turned off, the front panel 7 is in a state of closing the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27, as described above. When the indoor unit 2 begins to operate, first, the indoor fan 21 starts at a low rotational speed. Then, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are moved, and the exit 26 and the first intake port 27 are opened. As a result, a volume of air to be absorbed in the indoor unit 2 is ensured, and air is also propelled outward in the horizontal direction. Below is a description that focuses mainly on the movements of the front panel 7 based on Figures 8 (a), 8 (b), and 8 (c). Note that Figures 8 (a), 8 (b), and 8 (c) are side views of the indoor unit 2.

In a state in which the indoor unit 2 is turned off, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 close the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27. As shown in Figure 8 (a), the first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the third panel 73 are provided according to a generally straight line parallel to a top-down direction in the side view. In addition, the front sides of the first panel 71, the second panel 72 and the third panel 73 are formed so that they are generally flat. Note that, in this state, the first panel support member 67 of the opening and closing mechanism 61 is located in the lowest portion within the range of motion. In addition, the second panel support member 68 is positioned in the rearmost position within the range of motion.

When the indoor unit 2 begins to operate, the panel opening and closing motor 43 of the drive machine 41 is controlled and begins to rotate. Then, the driving force of the driving machine 41 is transmitted to the power transmission shaft 65, and the driving force is distributed and transmitted to the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64. Next, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are displaced by the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64, and consequently the exit 26 and the first intake port 27 are opened.

At this time, with the first opening and closing mechanism 63, the driving force is transmitted to the first panel support member 67 through the first opening and closing gear 630 and the second opening and closing gear 631. When the driving force is transmitted from the second opening and closing gear 631 to the first gear portion 670 of the first panel support element 67, the rotary movement is converted into a linear upward movement, and consequently the element 67 First panel support moves linearly up. Also with the second opening and closing mechanism 64, the force of

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drive of the same drive machine 41, and consequently a similar movement is carried out. As a result, as shown in Figure 8 (b), the first panel 71 moves up parallel in a direction from top to bottom to open the outlet 26. When the first panel 71 moves up in a direction above below, an upper end of the first panel 71 will be inserted into the recess formed behind the third panel 73. When the first panel 71 moves higher, as shown in Figure 8 (c), the first panel 71 will be housed in the gap between the third panel 73 and the front grid 60, and the first panel 71 will be hidden behind the third panel. In other words, the third panel 73 will generally overlap the entire first panel 71.

Furthermore, by linking said movements of the first panel 71, the second panel 72 also moves. At this time, with the first opening and closing mechanism 63, the above-described rotation of the second opening and closing gear 631 is transmitted simultaneously to the second gear portion 680 of the second panel support member 68. Then, when the driving force is transmitted from the second opening and closing gear 631 to the second gear portion 680 of the second panel support member 68, the rotary movement is converted into the smooth circular arc movement, and consequently the second panel support member 68 moves forward along a smooth circular arc path. This smooth circular arc path is a path along which the second panel support member 68 moves forward and also an upper end of the second panel support member 68 tilts forward. Also with the second opening and closing mechanism 64, the driving force of the same driving machine 41 is transmitted, and consequently a similar movement is carried out. As a result, the second panel support member 68 protrudes forward along the front of the front grille 60. Consequently, as shown in Figure 8 (b), the second panel 72 moves forward, and also rotates around the axis that is parallel to a direction from left to right according to the front view. The second panel 72 rotates around a portion close to a lower end thereof so that its upper end tilts forward. As shown in Figure 8 (c), the second panel 72 moves even further, and consequently a gap is formed between the front grille 60 and the second panel 72. As a result, the first intake port 27 is opened. Then, air is absorbed through the gap between the upper end of the second panel 72 and the front grille 60, and the air is absorbed into the indoor unit 2 from the first intake port 27. Note that, at this time, both sides of the gap between the front grill 60 and the second panel 72 are covered by the second panel support member 68, and the space above the gap between the front grill 60 and the second panel 72 is open. Consequently, air is absorbed mainly from the upper portion of the gap between the front grille 60 and the second panel 72.

Once the front panel 7 moves and the outlet 26 and the first intake port 27 open, the horizontal tab 50 (see Figure 2) is rotatably moved so that it is positioned according to an angle corresponding to the mode of adjusted operation.

Furthermore, when the indoor unit 2 is turned off, the opening and closing motor 43 of the drive machine 41 is controlled so that it rotates in the opposite direction, and consequently the first panel support member 67 and the element 68 of Second panel support move in an opposite direction to the address described above. As a result, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 move in the opposite direction to the previously described direction, and consequently the front panel 7 returns to its flat shape.

Method for mounting the indoor unit of the air conditioner

Next, a method for assembling the indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 2 described above is described.

As shown in Figure 9, this method for assembling the indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner mainly includes the step S1 of assembling the main body part 4, the step S5 of assembling the outlet assembly 5, the step S6 of assembling the front grille assembly 6, the step S7 of fixing the drive machine 41 in a normal manner, and the step S8 of mounting the front panel 7.

The step S1 of assembling the main body part 4 further includes the step S2 of mounting the heat exchanger and other components, the step S3 of temporarily fixing the drive machine 41, and the step S4 of connecting cables.

In step S2 of assembling the heat exchanger and other components, components such as the internal heat exchanger 20, the internal fan 21, the internal fan motor 22, and the housing 40 are mounted in the main body housing 41 electric components.

In step S3 of temporarily fixing the drive machine 41, the drive machine 41 is temporarily fixed to the left side portion 49 of the main body housing 42. Here, when the locking clip 490 in the left side portion 49 is inserted into the locking hole 461 in the drive machine 41 and held there, the drive machine 41 is consequently temporarily fixed to the left side portion 49. The temporarily fixed drive machine 41 is provided so that the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41 will generally coincide with the fixing portion 62 of the front grille 60 in a state where the front grille 60 is mounted on the Main body part 4.

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In step S4 of connecting cables, the panel opening and closing motor 43 of the drive machine 41 and the control board of the electrical component box 40 are connected via a cable 430. Note that the cable 430 is extends along the main body housing 42 from the drive machine 41 to the electrical component box 40.

Next, in step S5 of assembling the output assembly 5, the output assembly 5 is mounted to the main body part 4. The output assembly 5 is mounted to the main body part 4 so that the space where the inner fan 21 of the main body part 4 is located communicates with the output 26.

In step S6 of assembling the front grill assembly 6, the front grill assembly 6 is mounted to the main body part 4. The front grille assembly 6 covers the main body part 4 from the front part of the main body part 4, and is fixed to the main body part 4 by screwing or coupling.

In step S7 of normally fixing the drive machine 41, the drive machine 41 is fixed in a normal manner to the front panel 7. Here, a screw is threaded into the screw hole of the fixing portion 62 of the front panel 7 and the screw hole of the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41. Consequently, the drive machine 41 and the front panel 7 are fixed to each other. At this time, the drive machine 41 is in a state of being temporarily fixed to the main body housing 42, and the screw hole of the fixing portion 62 of the front panel 7 and the screw hole of the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41 are provided adjacent to each other In addition, even if the screw hole of the fixed portion 62 of the front panel 7 does not completely coincide with the screw hole of the fixed portion 462 of the drive machine 41, it can be carried It is easily screwed through a slight movement of the drive machine 41 to match the screw hole of the fixing portion 62 with the screw hole of the fixed portion 462.

Then, in step S8 of mounting the front panel 7, the front panel 7 is mounted to the front grill 60. Aqm, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are respectively fixed to tip portions of the first panel support element 67 and tip portions of the second panel support element 68 of the opening and closing mechanism 61, with tip portions protruding through slots 600 to 603 on the front of the front grille 60. In addition, the third panel 73 is fixed to the front grid 60.

Note that it is not necessary that each of steps S1 to S8 be carried out in the order described. If possible, the order can be modified.

Charactetic

(one)

With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, the opening and closing mechanism 61 that opens and closes the front panel 7 is provided in the front grille 60. Consequently, the mounting accuracy between the front grille 60 and the first panel 71 and between the front grille 60 and the second panel 72 will be improved compared to the case in which the opening and closing mechanism 61 is provided in the body part 4 principal. Consequently, the gap or a joint between the front grille 60 and the first panel 71 and between the front grille 60 and the second panel 72 can be maintained uniformly, and thus the design can be easily improved.

In addition, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64 are each formed as a unit, and are provided in the front grille 60. Accordingly, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64 can be easily mounted to the front grill 60, thereby improving productivity.

In addition, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64 are respectively fixed to the inner surfaces of the left and right sides of the front grille 60. Therefore, there is a low risk that they interfere with the assembly of the front grille 60 to the main body part 4. Consequently, the front grill 60 can also be easily mounted to the main body part 4.

(2)

With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, even when the second panel 72 moves in the opening direction and the first intake port 27 is open, the plate element 681 of the second panel support element 68 covers the sides of the gap between the second panel 72 and the front grid 60. In addition, as components such as the gear portion of the opening and closing mechanism 61 are located within the plate element, an occupant of the room is prevented from touching components such as the gear portion with his hand. Therefore, security will be improved.

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Furthermore, since the plate element 681 covers the sides of the gap between the second panel 72 and the front grille 60, it is possible to make mobile components such as the opening and closing element and the gear are hardly visible from the outside. In this way, the design will be improved during the movement of the second panel 72.

In addition, the second panel support member 68 is integrally molded, and the plate member 681 and the second gear portion 680 are integrated into a single unit. Consequently, the number of components is reduced and the space that was occupied by peripheral components can be eliminated. Also, since the second gear portion 680 and the plate element 681 are integrated, the resistance of the second gear portion 680 itself will be improved.

As described above, with this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, the second panel support member 68 that supports and moves the second panel 72 is also used as an element to prevent a person from inserting their hand into the unit 2 and to hide the inside of the indoor unit 2. Therefore, the second panel support member 68 is effectively used as a multifunctional component.

(3)

With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, as the drive machine 41 is provided for temporary fixation to the main body part 4, the wiring procedure will be simple when the front panel 7 is mounted to the body part 4 main compared to the case where the drive machine 41 is fixed to the front panel 7. In other words, when the front panel 7 is mounted to the main body part 4, if the drive machine 41 was fixed to the front panel 7, the wiring extends from the side of the front panel 7 to the side of the part 4 of body. This makes the wiring procedure difficult. However, by temporarily fixing the drive machine 41 to the main body part 4, the wiring is prevented from extending from the side of the front panel 7 to the side of the main body part 4 when the front panel 7 is mounted to the main body part 4.

In addition, since the drive machine 41 transmits the drive force to the opening and closing mechanism 61, the driving machine 41 and the opening and closing mechanism 61 must be aligned with each other. With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, the drive machine 41 is fixed to the front grille 60 after the front grille 60 has been mounted to the main body part 4. In other words, as the drive machine 41 is ultimately fixed to the front grille 60, this results in a better mounting accuracy between the opening and closing mechanism 61 and the machine being provided on the front grille 60 41 drive.

(4)

With this indoor unit 2 of the air conditioner 1, the driving force of the driving machine 41 is distributed and transmitted to the first opening and closing mechanism and the second opening and closing mechanism 64, and the portions near the right ends and left of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 move in a linked manner. Consequently, the movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 in a direction from left to right are carried out in a precisely synchronized manner. As a result, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are deformed, and can be moved smoothly.

Furthermore, as the driving force of the driving machine 41 is distributed and transmitted to the first panel support member 67 and the second panel support member 68, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 move in a linked manner. . Consequently, the opening and closing movements of the first intake port 27 and the outlet 26 can be easily carried out in a synchronized manner.

In addition, a total of four movements that include movements near the left and right ends of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 and the movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 are carried out by means of the driving force of the only motor 43 for opening and closing the panel. Consequently, the synchronization of these four movements can be carried out precisely, and the opening and closing movements can be carried out in a synchronized manner.

Other realizations

(one)

In the above-described embodiment, the opening and closing mechanism 61 has a function to convert the rotary movement transmitted from the drive machine 41 into a linear movement or a circular arc movement; however, the types of movement conversions performed by the opening and closing mechanism 61 are not limited to the previous ones. For example, the opening and closing mechanism 61 may be a mechanism to which a linear movement is transmitted from the drive machine 41, and which converts the linear movement into the opening and closing movements of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 .

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In the above-described embodiment, the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64 are provided respectively on the inner surfaces of the left and right sides of the front grille 60; however, the positions of the first opening and closing mechanism 63 and the second opening and closing mechanism 64 are not limited to the previous ones. A different arrangement is possible depending on the shape of the front grille 60 or the position of the front panel 7.

(3)

In the above-described embodiment, the second panel support member 68 is integrally molded; however, the separate bodies of the plate element 681 and the gear portion can be used. However, it is more preferable that they are integrally molded in view of the reduction in the number of components.

(4)

In the previous embodiment, temporary fixation is carried out with the locking clip 490 in the main body part 4 and the locking hole 461 in the drive machine 41; however, the locking clip 490 can be provided in the drive machine 4l and the locking hole 461 can be provided in the main body part 4. In addition, the components for temporary fixing are not limited to the locking clip 490 and the locking hole 461; a different component can be used with which the drive machine 41 can be temporarily attached to the main body part 4.

(5)

The structure of the temporary fixation in the previous embodiment is effective not only for the opening and closing of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 but also for the case in which it is necessary to transmit the driving force from the main body part 4 to the front grille 60 which is provided with some type of mobile components.

(6)

In the previous embodiment, the power transmission shaft 65 of the opening and closing mechanism 61 distributes the driving force of the driving machine 41; however, it is not limited to such a tree element, and it is possible to use a different element to distribute the driving force.

(7)

In the previously described embodiment, the gear portion transmits the driving force of the driving machine 41; however, other elements, including a cam, can be used as a transmission portion of the driving force.

Industrial applicability

The present invention is effective for improving safety in relation to the opening and closing movements of the mobile panel, and the present invention is useful as an indoor unit of an air conditioner.

Claims (6)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 1. An indoor unit (2) of an air conditioner (1), comprising: a housing (60) provided with an opening (27) in the front part thereof; a mobile panel (72) provided so as to cover the opening (27) and configured to open the opening (27) moving away from the opening (27) and to close the opening (27) moving closer to the opening (27); a drive portion (41) configured to generate a driving force to move the mobile panel (72); Y an opening and closing element (68) that includes: a portion (680) of transmission of driving force for transmitting the driving force of the driving portion (41) to the mobile panel (72); and characterized by: a plate element (681) provided outside the drive force transmission portion (680) and configured to cover a gap between the mobile panel (72) and the housing (60) in a state in which the panel (72 ) mobile is open. 2. The indoor unit (2) of the air conditioner (1) according to claim 1, wherein The opening and closing element (68) supports the mobile panel (72) and moves the mobile panel (72) away from the opening (27) projecting forward from the housing (60). 3. The indoor unit (2) of the air conditioner (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The plate element (681) also serves as a support element that supports the mobile panel (72) and moves the mobile panel (72) away from the opening (27) protruding forward from the housing (60). 4. The indoor unit (2) of the air conditioner (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the drive force transmission portion (680) and the plate element (681) are provided in an integral manner. 5. The indoor unit (2) of the air conditioner (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the drive force transmission portion (680) and the plate element (681) are integrally molded. 6. The indoor unit (2) of the air conditioner (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The opening and closing element (68) is provided adjacent to each inner surface of both sides of the housing (60).