Condensing unit and cooling apparatus equipped with condensing unit

Abstract

A condensing unit including a heat exchanger with end plates and a compressor. The heat exchanger is disposed below the compressor so that the end plate takes the load of the compressor. This eliminates the use of a compressor-anchoring base plate, and thus the number of structural parts is reduced. Accordingly, the condensing unit can be further downsized, and cost reduction can be achieved.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to condensing units in which the functions of a compressor and heat exchanger in a refrigerating system are unitized, and more particularly to condensing units employed in cooling apparatuses such as beverage dispensers and display cases.

2. Background Art

A conventional condensing unit is disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3667538, shown in FIG. 14.

Cooling apparatuses such as icemakers, beverage dispensers, and display cases, in particular, require a machine section to take up minimal volume in order to increase ice storage volume by enlarging the ice-making area, or to increase stored beverage volume by enlarging the beverage storage area so that the frequency of beverage refills can be reduced. Accordingly, reduction of the vertical dimension of the condensing unit has also been required.

In FIG. 14, heat exchanger 1, fan 2, and compressor 3 are disposed in this sequence from the bottom. These parts are disposed in series vertically with compressor 3 at the top for reducing the size. Fan 2 is attached to heat exchanger 1, and bracket 4 is also attached to heat exchanger 1 so as to provide a duct for air taken in by fan 2.

Compressor 3 is attached to compressor-anchoring base plate 5, and this compressor-anchoring base plate 5 is attached to a bottom plate of the machine section in the cooling apparatus.

Although the size of the conventional condensing unit has been successfully reduced by vertically disposing heat exchanger 1, fan 2, and compressor 3 in series, the following disadvantages (1) to (5) remain.

(1) Since exchanger 1, fan 2, and compressor 3 are disposed vertically in series, a substantial space is required heightwise. This results in, for example, an inability to secure a sufficient space for cooling objects in a cooling apparatus where the condensing unit is installed.

(2) The number of structural parts is large, including bracket 4 for attaching fan 2 and compressor-anchoring base plate 5 for attaching compressor 3, leading to higher costs.

(3) Large fan 2 can be disposed facing heat exchanger 1 in a broad area with a sufficient width and depth, achieving high heat exchange efficiency. However, if small fan 2 is used, the heat-exchanging area becomes smaller because fan 2 is close to heat exchanger 1. Accordingly, sufficient heat exchange using the entire heat exchanger 1 cannot be expected, impeding improvement in heat exchange efficiency.

(4) Since fan 2 is disposed so as to cool compressor 3 from the bottom, the upper part of compressor 3 where the temperature is likely to increase due to heat generation from the internal mechanism cannot be sufficiently cooled. This makes it difficult to improve the coefficient of performance and reliability of compressor 3.

(5) Since fan 2 is installed between heat exchanger 1 and compressor 3, which have high temperature, fan 2 is also disposed in a high-temperature environment. This makes it difficult to secure the reliability and efficiency typically of a driving motor. In addition, fan 2 is installed in a small space, making maintenance work on fan 2 difficult.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention solves the above disadvantages and offers a downsized and more inexpensive condensing unit by reducing the number of structural parts. In addition, the present invention offers a condensing unit and products equipped with this condensing unit, such as cooling apparatuses, that achieve high efficiency and high reliability for components of the unit by further applying other elements of the present invention.

To solve the disadvantages of the prior art, the condensing unit of the present invention includes a heat exchanger and compressor. The heat exchanger includes multiple fins, a pipe contacting the fins for heat conduction, and end plates disposed at both ends of the fins. The heat exchanger is disposed below the compressor so as to take the load of the compressor on its end plates.

This allows unitization of the compressor and heat exchanger without using a compressor-anchoring base plate, achieving a smaller condensing unit. Still more, non-use of the compressor-anchoring base plate reduces the number of structural parts, resulting in cost reduction. Furthermore, the present invention provides a basis for achieving higher efficiency and reliability for components such as the heat exchanger and compressor by further applying other elements of the present invention.

The present invention achieves a further downsized condensing unit at lower cost. In addition, the present invention provides a basis for achieving higher efficiency and reliability for components such as the heat exchanger and compressor by further applying other elements of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a condensing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the condensing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the condensing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a reinforcing plate of the condensing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a cooling apparatus equipped with the condensing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of a condensing unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of a condensing unit in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a condensing unit in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of a cooling apparatus equipped with the condensing unit in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a magnified perspective view of a key part of a heat exchanger in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a magnified sectional view of a key part where an end plate and pipe of a heat exchanger contact in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a side view of a condensing unit in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a side view of a condensing unit in accordance with the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a conventional condensing unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A condensing unit in an embodiment of the present invention includes a heat exchanger and a compressor. The heat exchanger includes multiple fins, a pipe contacting the fins for heat conduction, and end plates provided at both ends of the fins. The heat exchanger is disposed below the compressor so that the end plates take the load of compressor. This allows unitization of the compressor and the heat exchanger without the use of a compressor-anchoring base plate, achieving a smaller condensing unit. In addition, elimination of the use of the compressor-anchoring base plate reduces the number of structural parts, reducing costs.

Another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has an upper flange on an upper part of each of the end plates as a bent portion for taking the load of the compressor. This facilitates the provision of a flat area for directly or indirectly placing the compressor, and thus the load of compressor can be reliably supported by means of a simple structure.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a lower flange on a lower part of each of the end plates as an anchoring bent portion. This facilitates formation of a flat area for attaching the condensing unit to a product body, such as a cooling apparatus, and thus assembly operability can be improved by the use of this anchoring bent portion.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a reinforcing plate for coupling the end plates to each other. The reinforcing plate strengthens the connection between the endplates, and thus the structural strength of the heat exchanger on which the compressor is placed increases. This also leads to reduced propagation of vibration.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention forms a duct for passing air through the heat exchanger for heat diffusion by the space surrounded by the end plates and the reinforcing plate. This efficiently permits airflow to the heat exchanger, and thus the heat exchange efficiency improves, achieving higher performance for the condensing unit. In addition, since no separate component is needed for establishing a duct, the duct can be provided economically. Still more, since no additional space is required for establishing the duct, an even smaller condensing unit is achievable

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention places the compressor on the end plates via the reinforcing plate. This allows installation of the compressor on the reinforcing plate as required, even if the pitch of the end plates is broader than the attachment pitch of the compressor, or if the bent length of the upper part of the end plate is too short to directly place the compressor on the end plates. Accordingly, installation of the compressor can be more flexibly designed.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention anchors the compressor on the end plates with the reinforcing plate in between. This allows co-tightening of the reinforcing plate onto the end plates using an anchoring component for the compressor without using a fixing screw for securing the reinforcing plate onto the end plate. Elimination of the use of the fixing screw for the reinforcing plate reduces costs.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has the fins of the heat exchanger tilted vertically relative to the end plates. This improves the distribution of heat exchange inside the heat exchanger, and achieves roughly uniform airflow across the all fins. Accordingly, the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger improves, achieving a condensing unit with higher performance.

Still another exemplary embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a slotted hole in the end plate for inserting the pipe. This reduces a contact section between the end plate and the pipe, where the stress concentrates, and thus a stress-concentrating area becomes smaller. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of the compressor can be reduced.

Still another exemplary embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a burred portion on a hole in the end plate where the pipe is inserted. This prevents concentration of stress, since a planar contact is established between the end plate and pipe. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of the compressor can be reduced.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention provides a vibration reducer between the bent portion of the end plate, which takes the compressor load, and a pipe insert area. This prevents concentration of the stress on a contact section between the end plate and the pipe, since the vibration reducer reduces vibration of the compressor. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of the compressor can be reduced.

Still another exemplary embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a hole as the vibration reducer. This prevents concentration of stress on the contact section between the end plate and the pipe, since the hole reduces the vibration of the compressor. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of the compressor can be reduced. In addition, this hole can be formed in the same step as making a hole for passing the pipe through during the presswork of the end plate. Accordingly, a hole for reducing vibration can be easily formed without extra cost.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has a projection as the vibration reducer. This prevents concentration of stress on the contact section between the end plate and the pipe, since the projection reduces the vibration of the compressor. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of the compressor can be reduced. In addition, this projection can be easily formed during the presswork of the end plate. Furthermore no shear droop or burr is generated, and thus there is no danger of injury by the processed section, securing the safety.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention attaches a fan for convecting air through at least the heat exchanger. This allows forced convection of air through the heat exchanger, and thus the heat exchange efficiency significantly improves. Accordingly, the condensing unit with further higher performance is achievable.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention attaches a fan in a way such that air convected by the fan is also convected to the compressor. The forced-convection air to the compressor in addition to the heat exchanger enhances cooling of the compressor, and thus coefficient of performance increases. In addition, the temperature environment of internal mechanisms such as a compression mechanism and motor improve, achieving further higher performance, energy-saving, and also better reliability for the condensing unit.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention attaches a fan to the reinforcing plate. This enables a compact integration of the fan to the condensing unit. In addition, forced-convection air by the fan can be applied to the heat exchanger and the compressor at a shorter distance, and thus the cooling efficiency improves. Accordingly, a condensing unit with higher performance is achievable.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention attaches multiple fans. The use of small fans with performance equivalent to one large fan allows an efficient use of space, achieving further downsizing.

Still another embodiment of the condensing unit of the present invention has the fan attached vertically or obliquely. Compared to the case of attaching the fan horizontally, a projected area of the fan is smaller. In other words, an installation space for the fan in a longer direction becomes smaller, achieving further downsizing. In addition, the direction of forced convection air passing through the heat exchanger can be changed with relatively small resistance so as to apply it to the compressor. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency can be increased when the condensing unit is built into a product such as a cooling apparatus.

A cooling apparatus of the present invention is equipped with the condensing unit of the present invention. This reduces the space for machine section where the condensing unit is installed. Accordingly, a storage space for cooling objects, for example, can be broadened in the cooling apparatus. Improved volume efficiency relative to the installation space increases the product's value.

An embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has the condensing unit of the present invention and a separate fan for cooling the condensing unit. This reduces the space for machine section where the condensing unit is installed. Accordingly, a storage space for cooling objects, for example, can be broadened in the cooling apparatus. Improved volume efficiency relative to the installation space increases the product's value. In addition, an air passage for cooling the condensing unit can be designed more flexibly by separately providing the forced cooling fan in the main body of the cooling apparatus. This allows optimization as a product.

Still another embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has an air passage for cooling the compressor using intake air passing through the heat exchanger, and exhausting this air from the back of the cooling apparatus. This allows the reuse of air exhausted from the heat exchanger by applying the exhausted air to the compressor to cool down the compressor at high temperature, improving the reliability of the compressor. In addition, since the heat is released from the back of the cooling apparatus, the user is not bothered by heat expelled toward the user when standing in front of the cooling apparatus.

Still another embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has an air passage for cooling the compressor using intake air passing through the heat exchanger, and exhausting this air from an upper part of the back of cooling apparatus. This allows the reuse of air exhausted from the heat exchanger by applying the exhausted air to the compressor to cool down the compressor at high temperature; improving the reliability of the compressor. In addition, since the exhausted air is released from the upper part at the back of the cooling apparatus, the cooling apparatus can be installed with its back close to a wall. Accordingly, there is greater flexibility in installation position of the cooling apparatus, and the installation space can be reduced.

Still another embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has the condensing unit disposed in a way such that the fan comes to the front of the cooling apparatus. This facilitates formation of an air passage for reusing and applying air passing through the heat exchanger to the compressor. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the product by forced convection can be increased, and the air passage that facilitates exhausting of heat from the back can be configured.

Still another embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has the condensing unit disposed in a way such that the fan comes to the back of the cooling apparatus. This facilitates replacement or repair of the fan from the back, improving the serviceability.

Still another embodiment of the cooling apparatus of the present invention has an electrical section of the compressor at the back of the cooling apparatus. This facilitates replacement or repair of the electrical section of the compressor from the back, improving the serviceability.

The embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to drawings. Same reference numerals are given to the structure same as the prior art or preceding embodiments to omit duplication in detailed description. The present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

FIRST EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a side view, FIG. 2 is a plan view, and FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of condensing unit 510 in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of reinforcing plate 300. FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a beverage dispenser as a cooling apparatus equipped with condensing unit 510 in the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIGS. 1 to 5, heat exchanger 100 includes multiple fins 120, pipe 130 inserted roughly perpendicular to fins 120, and end plates 110 at both ends of fins 120. Fins 120, pipe 130, and end plates 110 are made of aluminum, copper and galvanized iron sheet, respectively.

Each of end plates 110 includes base 110C extending vertically and two flanges horizontally protruding in opposite directions from base 110C. In these two flanges, upper flange 110A is a bent portion for placing the compressor above, and lower flange 110B is a bent portion for anchoring the installed condensing unit. Base 110C, upper flange 110A, and lower flange 110B are processed by bending sheet metal. Upper flange 110A is bent inward to fins 120, and lower flange 110B is bent in the direction opposite to the inward direction to fins 120.

Fins 120 of heat exchanger 100 are disposed so as to be tilted vertically with fin end 121 near to fan 200 lower than fin end 122 far from fan 200.

Reinforcing plate 300 includes top face 300A, two side faces 300B parallel to fins 120, and two side faces 300C perpendicular to fins 120. They are processed by bending sheet metal. Side faces 300B protrude downward from a part of edges of top face 300A in an area where fan 200 is placed. One of side faces 300C protrudes downward from an edge of top face 300A in an area where fan 200 is placed, and the other side face 300C protrudes downward from an edge of top face 300A at the opposite side of fan 200.

Top face 300A of reinforcing plate 300 covers the top face of heat exchanger 100, and is attached to upper flange 110A of end plate 110 by reinforcing-plate fixing screw 700.

Fan 200 is attached on top face 300A of reinforcing plate 300. An air passage for forced convection is established by disposing heat exchanger 100 inside the duct formed by the space surrounded with end plates 110 and reinforcing plate 300. Air enters from the underside of heat exchanger 100 or from the side of heat exchanger 100 opposite fan 200, and exits from fan 200 through reinforcing plate 300.

Compressor 400 is placed on top face 300A of reinforcing plate 300, and fixed by compressor-anchoring bolt 800.

Beverage dispenser 900 includes electrical section 901, dispensing section 902, beverage storage 903, cooling section 904, and machine section 905; and condensing unit 510 is installed in machine section 905. Lower flange 110B is attached to bottom plate 906 of beverage dispenser 900, i.e., a cooling apparatus.

Air taken in by fan 200 from the underside of heat exchanger 100 is blown toward compressor 400, and exits from an upper part of the back of beverage dispenser 900.

The operation of condensing unit 510 and beverage dispenser 900, i.e., a cooling apparatus, as configured above is described below.

Compressor 400 is placed such that its load is supported by end plate 110 via reinforcing plate 300. Accordingly, the use of a separate compressor-anchoring base, as in the prior art, is eliminated, achieving a smaller condensing unit. This in turn reduces the number of structural parts, reducing costs.

Upper flange 110A, which is a bent portion for taking the load of compressor 400, is provided at an upper part of end plate 110. This structure facilitates the provision of a flat area for indirectly placing compressor 400, and thus the load of compressor 400 can be reliably supported by means of a simple structure.

Compressor 400 is placed on upper flange 110A of end plate 110 via reinforcing plate 300. This allows installation of compressor 400 on reinforcing plate 300 as required, even if the pitch of end plates 110 is broader than the attachment pitch of compressor 400 or if the bent length of upper flange 110A is too short to directly support compressor 400 on end plate 110. Accordingly, installation of compressor 400 can be more flexibly designed.

A lower part of end plate 110 is bent to simply configure lower flange 110B as a bent portion for anchoring condensing unit 510. This structure enables the use of lower flange 110B for anchoring condensing unit 510 onto beverage dispenser 900, improving assembly operability.

Reinforcing plate 300 for coupling end plates 110 is provided such that reinforcing plate 300 strengthens the connection between the end plates. This increases the structural strength of heat exchanger 100 on which compressor 400 is placed, and thus propagation of vibration, for example, can be reduced.

Reinforcing plate 300 also covers the top face of heat exchanger 100 to form an air passage 360. In other words, duct 350 for passing air through heat exchanger 100 for heat diffusion is formed by the space surrounded by end plate 110 and reinforcing plate 300. This efficiently permits airflow to heat exchanger 100, improving the heat exchange efficiency. Condenser unit 510 can thus achieve higher performance. In addition, since no separate component is needed for establishing a duct 350, the duct 350 can be provided economically. In addition, since no additional space is required for establishing the duct, an even smaller condensing unit is achievable.

Fins 120 are tilted vertically to improve the distribution of heat exchange inside heat exchanger 100, and achieve roughly uniform airflow across all fins 120. This improves the heat exchange efficiency of heat exchanger 100, and condensing unit 510 can thus achieve higher performance.

Fan 200 is attached so as to at least convect air through heat exchanger 100. This enables forced convection of air in heat exchanger 100, thus significantly improving the heat exchange efficiency. Condenser unit 510 can thus achieve higher performance. In addition, the attachment of fan 200 to reinforcing plate 300 establishes an air passage 360 for efficiently exhausting air taken in by fan 200 in a more compact manner. This improves the heat exchange efficiency, and thus condensing unit 510 can achieve higher performance.

Condenser unit 510 installed in beverage dispenser 900 enables downsizing of the space required for machine section 905 where condensing unit 510 is installed. This, for example, enables broadening of a storage space for cooling objects in the cooling apparatus. Accordingly, improved volume efficiency relative to the installation space increases the product's value. In addition, in case of beverage dispenser 900, the beverage storage volume can be increased. This contributes to a lower frequency of beverage refills.

Fan 200 is attached such that convecting air also convects to compressor 400.

Accordingly, forced air convection is applied to compressor 400 in addition to heat exchanger 100. This enhances the cooling of compressor 400 and increases its coefficient of performance. In addition, the temperature environment for internal mechanisms such as the compression mechanism and motor is improved. Condenser unit 510 can thus achieve higher performance, energy-saving, and also better reliability.

Still more, the first embodiment has an air passage 360 for cooling compressor 400 using air taken in from the underside of heat exchanger 100 and exhausting this air from the back of beverage dispenser 900. This structure allows the reuse of air exhausted from heat exchanger 100 by applying the exhausted air to compressor 400 to cool down high-temperature compressor 400, improving reliability 15 of compressor 400. In addition, since air is exhausted from the back of beverage dispenser 900, the user is not bothered by air exhausted toward the user when standing in front of beverage dispenser 900.

Still more, the first embodiment may have an air passage 360 for cooling compressor 400 using air taken in from the underside of heat exchanger 100 and exhausting this air from an upper part of the back of beverage dispenser 900. This allows the reuse of air exhausted from heat exchanger 100 by applying the exhausted air to compressor 400 to cool down high-temperature compressor 400, improving reliability of compressor 400. In addition, since air is exhausted from the upper part of the back of beverage dispenser 900, beverage dispenser 900 can be installed with its back close to a wall. Accordingly, there is greater flexibility in installation position of beverage dispenser 900, and the installation space can be downsized.

Still more, fan 200 is provided separately on an appropriate part of a body of beverage dispenser 900 without integrating fan 200 with condensing unit 510. This gives more flexibility in designing a structure of air passage 360 for cooling condensing unit 510. Accordingly, beverage dispenser 900 can be optimized as a product.

Still more, electrical section 410 of compressor 400 is provided on the back of beverage dispenser 900. This facilitates the servicing and repair of electrical section 410 of compressor 400 simply by detaching rear panel 907. Accordingly, serviceability can be improved.

In this embodiment, filter drier 600 for adsorbing moisture or removing dust, which are harmful in refrigerating systems, is provided in the structure of condensing unit. However, this may not be provided.

In this embodiment, upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B of each of end plates 110 protrude horizontally in opposite directions from vertical base 110C. However, both upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B may be formed opposite to the inward direction to fins 120. In other words, both upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B may protrude outward perpendicular to base 110C, roughly forming a U shape. In this case, since upper flange 110A is formed in the direction opposite to the inward direction to fins 120, components such as fan 200 are unlikely to hit pipe 130 during assembly of the condensing unit, reducing the risk of deforming pipe 130. Degradation of the product quality of heat exchanger 100 is thus preventable.

Or, end plates 110 may be configured by the combination of both upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B formed in a direction opposite to the inward direction to fins 120, and upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B formed in directions opposite to each other.

Still more, upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B are made by bending sheet metal in this embodiment. However, they can be separate pieces.

In this embodiment, reinforcing plate 300 includes top face 300A, two side faces 300B horizontal to fins 120, and two side faces 300C perpendicular to fins 120. However, side faces 300C may be eliminated by forming a flange on base 110C of end plate 110 toward fins 120 on a face different from upper flange 110A and lower flange 110B, so as to form an air passage while preventing formation of a bypass duct that takes in air exhausted from fan 200.

Still more, an air passage 360 may be formed by extending base 110C of end plate 110 to the position of fan 200 without providing side faces 300B on reinforcing plate 300.

In this embodiment, compressor 400 is a reciprocating compressor 400. However, the use of a rotary compressor 400 enables further downsizing.

In this embodiment, fan 200 is installed so as to improve cooling performance by forced convection. If there is an allowance in performance, natural convection without installing fan 200 may be adopted. This eliminates the noise of fan 200, achieving a quieter condensing unit.

Still more, this embodiment has an air passage 360 to expel air from the upper part on the back of beverage dispenser 900. However, the air passage 360 to exhaust air from the back of beverage dispenser 900 may be configured.

In this embodiment, the condensing unit is installed in beverage dispenser 900. However, the condensing unit may be installed in other cooling apparatuses such as icemakers, display cases, and refrigerators.

SECOND EMBODIMENT

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of condensing unit 520 in the second embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, heat exchanger 100 includes multiple fins 120, pipe 130 inserted roughly perpendicular to fins 120, and end plates 110 at both ends of fins 120.

End plates 110 include base 110C, and upper flange 110 and lower flange 110B protruding perpendicular to base 110C. Base 110C, upper flange 110A, and lower flange 110B are processed by bending sheet metal. Upper flange 110A is provided inward to fins 120, and lower flange 110B is provided in the direction opposite to the inward direction to fins 120. Here, upper flange 110A is a bent portion for placing the compressor above, and lower flange 110B is a bent portion for anchoring the installed condensing unit.

Reinforcing plate 300 includes top face 300A, two side faces 300B (as shown in FIG. 4) parallel to fins 120, and two side faces 300C (as shown in FIG. 4) perpendicular to fins 120. Top face 300A, two side faces 300B, and two side faces 300C are processed by bending sheet metal. Side faces 300B protrude downward from a part of edges of top face 300A in an area where fan 200 is placed. One of side faces 300C protrudes downward from an edge of top face 300A in an area where fan 200 is placed, and the other side face 300C protrudes downward from an edge of top face 300A at the opposite side of fan 200.

Fan 200 (not illustrated) is attached on top face 300A of reinforcing plate 300, and forms an air passage 360 together with heat exchanger 100. Air enters from the underside of heat exchanger 100 or from the side of heat exchanger 100 opposite fan 200, and exits from fan 200 through reinforcing plate 300.

Fins 120 of heat exchanger 100 are disposed so as to be tilted vertically with fin end 121 (not illustrated) near to fan 200 lower than fin end 122 (not illustrated) far from fan 200.

Compressor 400 is placed on upper flange 110A of end plate 110 of heat exchanger 100, and fixed using compressor-anchoring bolt 800 with reinforcing plate 300 in between.

The operation of the condensing unit as configured above is described next.

Reinforcing plate 300 can be secured together using an anchoring member for compressor 400 without using fixing screw 700 for fixing reinforcing plate 300 on end plate 110 by sandwiching and fixing reinforcing plate 300 between compressor 400 and end plate 110. This eliminates the need of reinforcing plate-fixing screw 700, achieving cost reduction.

THIRD EMBODIMENT

FIG. 7 is a plan view of condensing unit 530 in the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 7, two fans 200 are disposed in parallel on top face 300A of reinforcing plate 300.

The operation of condensing unit 530 as configured above is described below.

To secure air volume of fan 200, a predetermined diameter is required for fan 200. If only one fan 200 is provided, the dimension in a longer direction (X direction in FIG. 7) becomes longer, causing wasted space. If two fans 200 with smaller outline, which have performance equivalent to one large fan 200, are disposed in parallel, the space can be more efficiently used. This leads to downsizing of the condensing unit 530. For example, if two small fans of 60 mm square are used instead of one large fan of 120 mm square, the size of the condensing unit can be reduced by 60 mm.

In this exemplary embodiment, two fans 200 are disposed in parallel. However, it is apparent that they may also be disposed in series.

In addition, two fans 200 may be disposed slightly shifted or fans 200 with different number of revolutions or size may be used to prevent resonance of two fans 200.

In addition, the number of fans 200 may also be three or more.

In this exemplary embodiment, box type fan 200 in which the blades and motor are integrated and housed in a casing is used as fan 200. However, sirocco types, cross-flow types or types with separate blades and motors are also applicable.

FOURTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 8 is a side view of condensing unit 540 in the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, fan 200 is vertically attached to a side face of reinforcing plate 300.

The operation of condensing unit 540 as configured above is described below.

Since fan 200 is vertically disposed, a projected area of fan 200 is smaller than when disposing fan 200 horizontally. More specifically, the installation space for fan 200 in a longer direction becomes smaller, achieving further downsizing.

In the fourth exemplary embodiment, fan 200 is vertically disposed relative to heat exchanger 100. In addition, fan 200 may be disposed in a tilted manner relative to heat exchanger 100. An appropriate angle may be set in accordance with a layout for installing condensing unit 540 in a cooling apparatus.

Since the direction of forced convection air passing through heat exchanger 100 can be changed with relatively small resistance, so as to apply it to compressor 400, the cooling efficiency can be increased when the condensing unit is built into a product such as a cooling apparatus.

FIFTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of beverage dispenser 900 equipped with condensing unit 550 in the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 9, fan 200 is disposed at the back of beverage dispenser 900.

The operation of beverage dispenser 900 as configured above is described below.

Since fan 200 is disposed at the back of beverage dispenser 900, fan 200 can be easily replaced or repaired from the back just by removing rear panel 907, achieving higher serviceability.

SIXTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 10 is a magnified perspective view of a key part of the heat exchanger in the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 10, a slotted hole 110D is formed in end plate 110 of heat exchanger 100, and pipe 130 is inserted into this slotted hole 110D.

The operation of the condensing unit as configured above is described below.

A contact area between pipe 130 and end plate 110 becomes smaller by inserting pipe 130 into slotted hole 110D, compared to that of inserting pipe 130 into a round hole. Since the contact area between pipe 130 and end plate 110, where leaks often occurs by stress concentration due to vibration of compressor 400, becomes smaller, leaks due to propagation of vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced.

SEVENTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 11 is a magnified sectional view of a contact section between end plate 110 of the heat exchanger 100 and pipe 130 in the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 11, burred portion 110E is made on end plate 110 of heat exchanger 100, and pipe 130 is inserted into this burred portion 110E.

The operation of the condensing unit as configured above is described below.

Insertion of pipe 130 into burred portion 110E of end plate 110 establishes a planar contact between pipe 130 and end plate 110. This reduces leaks which often occur by the stress concentrated on a contact area between pipe 130 and end plate 110 due to vibration of compressor 400. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced. In addition, though not illustrated, burred portion 110E is preferably provided on all holes of end plate 110 where pipe 130 is inserted, but partially without burred portion 110E is also acceptable.

EIGHTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 12 is a side view of condensing unit 580 in the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 12, vibration-reducing hole 110F is provided in end plate 110 of heat exchanger 100 between the bent portion, which takes the load of compressor 400, and pipe 130.

The operation of condensing unit 580 as configured above is described below.

Since vibration-reducing hole 110F is provided between the bent portion of end plate 110, which takes the load of compressor 400, and pipe 130, vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced. In addition, this hole can be formed simultaneously in the same step as making a hole for passing the pipe through during the presswork of end plate 110. Accordingly, the vibration-reducing hole can be easily formed without extra cost.

In this embodiment, two square vibration-reducing holes 110F are formed. However, one hole or numerous holes can be provided. In addition, any hole shapes including round and slotted holes are applicable. The position of vibration-reducing hole 110F is preferably right under the anchoring area of end plate 110 of compressor 400 because vibration can be most easily reduced at this area.

NINTH EMBODIMENT

FIG. 13 is a side view of condensing unit 590 in the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Vibration-reducing projection 110G is provided on end plate 110 of heat exchanger 100 between the bent portion, which takes the load of compressor 400, and pipe 130.

The operation of condensing unit 590 as configured above is described below.

Since vibration-reducing projection 110G is provided between the bent portions of end plate 110, which takes the load of compressor 400, and pipe 130, vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced. Accordingly, leaks due to propagation of vibration of compressor 400 can be reduced. In addition, this projection can be easily processed during the presswork of end plate 110. In addition, no shear droop or burr is generated after processing. Accordingly, injury by the processed part is avoidable, securing the safety.

In this embodiment, one vibration-reducing projection 110G is provided. However, multiple projections may be provided, and any shapes including round dimple or louver are also applicable. The position of projection 110G is preferably right under the anchoring area of end plate 110 of compressor 400 because vibration can be most easily reduced at this area.

The condensing unit of the present invention enables cost reduction, downsizing, and higher performance. Accordingly, the condensing unit of the present invention is applicable to diverse purposes including icemakers, beverage dispensers, display cases, and refrigerators.

Claims

1. A condenser unit, comprising:

a heat exchanger including: a plurality of fins; a pipe contacting the fins for heat conduction; and an end plate disposed at both ends of the fins; and

a compressor;

wherein the heat exchanger is disposed below the compressor, and the end plate takes a load of the compressor.

2. The condenser unit of claim 1, wherein the end plate has a bent portion for taking the load of the compressor, the bent portion being provided at an upper part of the end plate.

3. The condenser unit of claim 1, wherein the end plate has an anchoring bent portion provided at a lower part of the end plate.

4. The condenser unit of claim 2, wherein the end plate has an anchoring bent portion provided at a lower part of the end plate.

5. The condenser unit of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcing plate for coupling between the end plates.

6. The condenser unit of claim 5, wherein a duct for passing air through the heat exchanger for heat diffusion is formed by a space surrounded by the end plates and the reinforcing plate.

7. The condenser unit of claim 5, wherein the compressor is placed on the end plate via the reinforcing plate.

8. The condenser unit of claim 6, wherein the compressor is placed on the end plate via the reinforcing plate.

9. The condenser unit of claim 7, wherein the compressor is anchored on the end plate with the reinforcing plate in between.

10. The condenser unit of claim 8, wherein the compressor is anchored on the end plate with the reinforcing plate in between.

11. The condenser unit of claim 1, wherein the fins are disposed in a vertically tilted manner relative to the end plate.

12. The condenser unit of claim 1, wherein a hole for inserting the pipe is formed in the end plate, the hole being a slotted hole.

13. The condenser unit of claim 1, wherein a hole for inserting the pipe is formed in the end plate, a portion around the hole being burred.

14. The condenser unit of claim 1, further comprising a vibration reducer between a bent portion of the end plate and an area where the pipe is inserted, the bent portion being an area which takes the load of the compressor.

15. The condenser unit of claim 14, wherein the vibration reducer is a hole formed in the end plate.

16. The condenser unit of claim 14, wherein the vibration reducer is a projection.

17. The condenser unit of claim 1, further comprising a fan for convecting air through at least the heat exchanger.

18. The condenser unit of claim 17, wherein the fan is disposed at a position for convecting air also to the compressor.

19. The condenser unit of claim 17, further comprising a reinforcing plate for coupling between the end plates, wherein the fan is attached to the reinforcing plate.

20. The condenser unit of claim 17, wherein the fan is provided in plural number.

21. The condenser unit of claim 17, wherein the fan is attached to the heat exchanger in one of a vertical manner and a tilted manner.

22. A cooling apparatus equipped with a condenser unit, the condenser unit comprising:

a heat exchanger including: a plurality of fins; a pipe contacting the fins for heat conduction, and an end plate disposed at both ends of the fins; and

a compressor;

wherein the heat exchanger is disposed below the compressor, and the end plate takes a load of the compressor.

23. The cooling apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a separate fan for cooling the condenser unit.

24. The cooling apparatus of claim 22, wherein the cooling apparatus has an air passage for cooling the compressor by taking air passing through the heat exchanger and exhausting the air from a back of the cooling apparatus.

25. The cooling apparatus of claim 23, wherein the cooling apparatus has an air passage for cooling the compressor by taking air passing through the heat exchanger and exhausting the air from a back of the cooling apparatus.

26. The cooling apparatus of claim 22, wherein the cooling apparatus has an air passage for cooling the compressor by taking air passing through the heat exchanger and exhausting the air from an upper part of a back of the cooling apparatus.

27. The cooling apparatus of claim 23, wherein the cooling apparatus has an air passage for cooling the compressor by taking air passing through the heat exchanger and exhausting the air from an upper part of a back of the cooling apparatus.

28. The cooling apparatus of claim 24, wherein the condenser unit is disposed in a way such that the fan comes to a front of the cooling apparatus.

29. The cooling apparatus of claim 25, wherein the condenser unit is disposed in a way such that the fan comes to a front of the cooling apparatus.

30. The cooling apparatus of claim 24, wherein the condenser unit is disposed in a way such that the fan comes to the back of the cooling apparatus.

31. The cooling apparatus of claim 25, wherein the condenser unit is disposed in a way such that the fan comes to the back of the cooling apparatus.

32. The cooling apparatus of claim 22, wherein an electrical section of the compressor is disposed on a back of the cooling apparatus.