AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS

Abstract

An air-conditioning apparatus includes an irradiation device including an LED configured to emit an ultraviolet ray; and includes a heat-dissipating unit configured to dissipate heat of the irradiation device into air.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an air-conditioning apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, there is an irradiation device including an LED that emits ultraviolet rays. The LED generates a large amount of heat, and its characteristics change rapidly with a change in temperature. Therefore, in Patent Literature 1, the LED is cooled by a Peltier element to suppress a temperature rise of the LED.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

• PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-177774

SUMMARY

An air-conditioning apparatus according to a first aspect includes an irradiation device (70) including an LED (72) configured to emit an ultraviolet ray; and includes a heat-dissipating unit (F, 91, 92) configured to dissipate heat of the irradiation device (70) into air.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view showing an internal structure of an indoor unit.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an attachment structure of an irradiation device as viewed from the front side.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the air-conditioning apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 1 according to Modification 1.

FIG. 6 is a vertical sectional view showing an internal structure of an indoor unit according to Modification 3.

FIG. 7 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat conductor and fins according to a first example of Modification 5.

FIG. 8 is a schematic structural diagram of a heat conductor and fins according to a second example of Modification 5.

FIG. 9 is a vertical sectional view showing an internal structure of an indoor unit of Modification 6.

FIG. 10 is a vertical sectional view showing an internal structure of an indoor unit of Modification 7.

FIG. 11 is a vertical sectional view showing an internal structure of an indoor unit of Modification 8.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, and various modifications can be made without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for easy understanding.

(1) Overall Configuration of Air-conditioning Apparatus

FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of an air-conditioning apparatus (10). The air-conditioning apparatus (10) adjusts the temperature of air in a target space. The target space is an indoor space (I). The air-conditioning apparatus (10) performs a cooling operation and a heating operation. In the cooling operation, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) cools the air in the indoor space (I). In the heating operation, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) heats the air in the indoor space (I).

The air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes a refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating a refrigerant. The refrigerant is, for example, R32 (difluoromethane).

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

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

The air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes irradiation devices (70). Each irradiation device (70) irradiates a predetermined target with ultraviolet rays to sterilize the predetermined target.

(2) Outdoor Unit

The compressor (21) compresses a refrigerant. The compressor (21) is a rotary compressor. The rotary compressor (21) is configured as a swing type, a rolling piston type, a scroll type, or the like.

The outdoor heat exchanger (22) causes the refrigerant and outdoor air to exchange heat. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) is of a fin-and-tube type.

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

The expansion valve (23) decompresses the refrigerant. The expansion valve (23) is an electronic or temperature-sensitive expansion valve.

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

(3) Indoor Unit

FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view of the indoor unit (30). In the following description, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “front”, and “rear” are based on the directions indicated by the arrows in FIG. 2.

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

(3-1) Casing

The casing (31) forms an outer contour of the indoor unit (30). A suction port (32) is formed in an upper portion of the casing (31). A blow-out port (33) is formed in a lower portion of the casing (31). Inside the casing (31), an air passage (34) is formed from the suction port (32) to the blow-out port (33). The suction port (32) takes indoor air in the indoor space (I) into the air passage (34). The blow-out port (33) blows out the air in the air passage (34) into the indoor space (I). The blow-out port (33) is provided with a flap (not shown) for adjusting the direction of the blown out air.

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

(3-2) Filter

The filter (38) is disposed on an upstream side of the indoor heat exchanger (40) in an internal flow path (Si). The filter (38) collects dust and the like in the air sent from the suction port (32) to the indoor heat exchanger (40). The indoor unit may include a dust removal mechanism for removing dust adhering to the filter (38).

(3-3) Indoor Heat Exchanger

The indoor heat exchanger (40) causes a refrigerant, which is a heat medium, and air to exchange heat. The indoor heat exchanger (40) is of a fin-and-tube type. The indoor heat exchanger (40) includes a first heat exchanger (41) and a second heat exchanger (42). The first heat exchanger (41) is disposed in front of the indoor fan (50). The second heat exchanger (42) is disposed behind the indoor fan (50). The first heat exchanger (41) and the second heat exchanger (42) are formed separately from each other.

Each of the first heat exchanger (41) and the second heat exchanger (42) includes a plurality of fins (F) and a heat transfer tube (42) extending through the plurality of fins (F) in a thickness direction (the direction of the plane of FIG. 2). Each fin (F) is formed in a vertically long rectangular plate shape. Each fin (F) is made of a metal material such as aluminum having high thermal conductivity. The heat transfer tube (P) is made of a metal material such as copper having high thermal conductivity.

Each fin (F) is an example of a heat-dissipating unit. The heat-dissipating unit dissipates heat of the irradiation devices (70) into the air. The heat-dissipating unit of the present embodiment further dissipates the heat of the irradiation devices (70) into a refrigerant. The heat transfer rates of the fins (F) are preferably 80 W/m·K or greater, and more preferably 100 W/m·K or greater.

(3-4) Indoor Fan

The indoor fan (50) conveys indoor air. The indoor fan (50) is a cross-flow fan. The air conveyed by the indoor fan (50) passes through the indoor heat exchanger (40). The air that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (40) is supplied to the indoor space (I) through the blow-out port (33).

(3-5) Drain Pan

A drain pan (60) is a tray for receiving condensed water in the air. The drain pan (60) includes a first drain pan (61) and a second drain pan (62).

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

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

(3-6) Irradiation Device and Heat Conductor

As shown in FIG. 2, each irradiation device (70) is provided in the indoor unit (30). Each irradiation device (70) is disposed inside the casing (31). Each irradiation device (70) of the present example is intended for the first drain pan (61) and air.

Each irradiation device (70) includes a circuit board (71) and an LED (72). The LED (72) is provided on the circuit board (71). The LED (72) is a light-emitting unit that emits ultraviolet rays. The LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays with a predetermined directivity. The wavelengths of the ultraviolet rays emitted from the LED (72) are 190 nm or greater and 280 nm or less. The wavelengths of the ultraviolet rays are preferably 220 nm or greater and 270 nm or less. As shown in FIG. 3, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) of the present example includes three irradiation devices (70).

The air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes a heat conductor (75). The heat conductor (75) of the present example is made of a metal material. Examples of the metal material include aluminum, stainless steel, and iron. The heat conductor (75) may be made of a resin material having thermal conductivity. Examples of the resin material include polycarbonate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyacetal, and polyamide. The heat transfer rate of the heat conductor (75) is preferably 80 W/m·K or greater, and more preferably 100 W/m·K or greater.

The heat conductor (75) connects each irradiation device (70) and the indoor heat exchanger (40) to each other. The heat conductor (75) of the present example is connected to the fins (F) of the first heat exchanger (41). The heat conductor (75) is in contact with an endmost fin (end plate) of the first heat exchanger (41) and the sides of the fins (F). The heat conductor (75) extends in an arrangement direction of the plurality of fins (F) along front edges of the fins (F) so as to be in contact with all the fins (F) of the first heat exchanger (41). The heat conductor (75) may be in contact with only a part of all the fins (F).

In this example, each irradiation device (70) is fixed to a lower portion of the heat conductor (75). Three irradiation devices (70) are arranged along a longitudinal direction of the heat conductor (75). Each circuit board (71) is fixed to the heat conductor (75). Each LED (72) is thermally connected to the heat conductor (75) through the circuit board (71) corresponding thereto. The heat conductor (75) may be in direct contact with each LED (72).

Each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward the first drain pan (61). To be specific, each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward a bottom surface (60a) of the first drain pan (61). Thus, the first drain pan (61) and water in the first drain pan (61) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays.

Each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward air conveyed by the indoor fan (50). In other words, each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward air in the air passage (34). Thus, air supplied to the indoor space (I) can be sterilized.

Air flows obliquely downward to the rear side in the vicinity of each LED (72). Therefore, each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays toward the downstream side of an air flow. In this way, dust in the air can be suppressed from adhering to each LED (72).

In particular, the heat conductor (75) is positioned on an upstream side of each LED (72) and each LED (72) is fixed to a surface (lower surface) on a downstream side of the heat conductor (75). Therefore, adhesion of dust in the air to the surface of each LED (72) can be suppressed by the heat conductor (75).

Condensed water generated around the indoor heat exchanger (40) may scatter to a downstream side of the indoor heat exchanger (40). On the other hand, in this example, the irradiation devices (70) and the heat conductor (75) are disposed on the upstream side of an air flow in the first heat exchanger (41). Therefore, it is possible to suppress adhesion of condensed water to the circuit board (71) and the LED (72) of each irradiation device (70).

(4) Remote Controller and Control Unit

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes a remote controller (80). The remote controller (80) includes an operation unit (81). The operation unit (81) is a functional unit for a person to input various instructions to the air-conditioning apparatus (10). The operation unit (81) includes a switch, a button, or a touch panel. An operation of the air-conditioning apparatus (10) is selected by operating the operation unit (81) by a person. The operation of the air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes a cooling operation and a heating operation.

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

Each of the first control device (101) and the second control device (102) includes a micro control unit (MCU), an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The MCU includes a central processing unit (CPU), a memory, and a communication interface. Various programs to be executed by the CPU are stored in the memory.

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

The first control device (101) controls the compressor (21), the expansion valve (23), the four-way switching valve (24), and the outdoor fan (25) in accordance with a received instruction. The second control device (102) controls the indoor fan (50) and each irradiation device (70) in accordance with a received instruction.

The control unit (100) switches between the cooling operation and the heating operation in accordance with a received instruction. The control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state during the cooling operation. The control unit (100) of the present example sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state during the heating operation. The control unit (100) causes an output of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation to be larger than an output of each irradiation device (70) during the heating operation. Specifically, the control unit (100) causes the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation to be larger than the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the heating operation.

(5) Driving Operation

The operation of the air-conditioning apparatus (10) will be described in detail. The air-conditioning apparatus (10) switches between the cooling operation and the heating operation.

(5-1) Cooling Operation

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

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

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

(5-2) Heating Operation

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

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

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

(5-3) Operation of Irradiation Devices During Cooling Operation

During the cooling operation, the control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state. When each irradiation device (70) is set to the ON state, each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays. The first drain pan (61) is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays. Thus, the first drain pan (61) and water in the first drain pan (61) can be sterilized. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the propagation of bacteria and mold in the first drain pan (61).

In addition, the air flowing through the air passage (34) is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays. Therefore, the air flowing through the air passage (34) can be sterilized, and the sterilized air can be supplied into a room.

The control unit (100) causes the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation to be higher than the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the heating operation. The cooling operation is performed under a high-temperature and high-humidity condition. Therefore, bacteria and the like are likely to propagate inside the casing (31) during the cooling operation. On the other hand, by increasing the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation, the propagation of such bacteria can be reliably suppressed.

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

(5-4) Operation of Irradiation Devices During Heating Operation

During the heating operation, the control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state. When each irradiation device (70) is set to the ON state, each LED (72) emits ultraviolet rays. Air flowing through the air passage (34) is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays. Therefore, the air flowing through the air passage (34) can be sterilized, and the sterilized air can be supplied into a room.

In addition, the control unit (100) performs as appropriate a reverse cycle defrosting operation during the heating operation. In the reverse cycle defrosting operation, similarly to the cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger (40) serves as an evaporator, and thus condensed water may be generated. The drain pan (60) receives the condensed water.

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

(6) Features

(6-1) The air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes the fins (F) as the heat-dissipating unit that dissipates heat of the each irradiation device (70) into the air. For this reason, it is possible to suppress a temperature rise of each LED (72) with a relatively simple configuration.

Specifically, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) includes a heat conductor (75) for connecting the fins (F). Therefore, heat generated from each LED (72) can be transmitted to the fins (F) through the heat conductor (75). Therefore, due to the heat dissipation effect of the fins (F), the temperature rise of each LED (72) can be suppressed. Thus, a desired operation can be performed in the irradiation devices (70). Since the fins (F) are provided in the indoor heat exchanger (40) and have a sufficient heat transfer area, heat generation of each LED (72) can be effectively suppressed.

(6-2) Since the heat conductor (75) is made of a metal material, the heat of the irradiation devices (70) can be quickly transferred to the fins (F) via the heat conductor (75). For this reason, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) due to the fact that the heat transfer of the heat conductor (75) is rate-limiting. In particular, by setting the heat transfer rate of the heat conductor (75) to 80 W/m·K or greater, the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) can be improved. In particular, by setting the heat transfer rate of the heat conductor (75) to 100 W/m·K or greater, the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) can be sufficiently obtained.

By setting the heat transfer rate of each fin (F) as the heat-dissipating unit to 80 W/m·K or greater, the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) can be improved. In particular, when the heat transfer rates of the fins (F) are set to 100 W/m·K or greater, the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) can be sufficiently obtained.

(6-3) The control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state in the cooling operation. For this reason, it is possible to sterilize a predetermined target (air or the drain pan (60))) under a condition in which bacteria, mold, or the like is particularly likely to be generated. In addition, the indoor heat exchanger (40) during the cooling operation functions as an evaporator.

Therefore, each LED (72) can be sufficiently cooled by a refrigerant.

(6-4) The control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state in the heating operation.

Therefore, even in the heating operation, the target (air or the drain pan (60))) can be sterilized. When each irradiation device (70) is set to the ON state, the temperature of each LED (72) may be, for example, 80° C. or higher. On the other hand, the temperature of a refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger (40) is considerably lower than the temperature of each LED (72). Therefore, each LED (72) can be sufficiently cooled by the refrigerant even in the heating operation.

(6-5) The control unit (100) causes the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation to be greater than the light emission intensity of each irradiation device (70) during the heating operation. For this reason, it is possible to reliably suppress the propagation of bacteria and mold under a high temperature and high humidity condition.

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

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

(6-8) Each irradiation device (70) is disposed on the upstream side of an air flow with respect to the indoor heat exchanger (40). For this reason, it is possible to suppress adhesion of condensed water or the like generated in the vicinity of the indoor heat exchanger (40) to each circuit board (71) and each LED (72) and to compensate for the operation of each irradiation device (70).

(6-9) Each LED (72) faces the downstream side of an air flow. Therefore, adhesion of dust or the like in the air to the surface of each LED (72) can be suppressed, and reduction in a substantial irradiation amount of each LED (72) can be suppressed.

(7) Modifications

In the above-described embodiments, the structures of modifications below may be employed.

(7-1) Modification 1: Modification of Target of Irradiation Devices

(7-1-1)

Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the second drain pan (62) with ultraviolet rays. Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate both the first drain pan (61) and the second drain pan (62) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-2)

As shown in FIG. 5, each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the indoor heat exchanger (40) with ultraviolet rays. Thus, the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (40) can be sterilized. In this example, each irradiation device (70) irradiates the first heat exchanger (41) with ultraviolet rays. The heat conductor (75) connects each irradiation device (70) and the first heat exchanger (41) to each other. In other words, the heat conductor (75) connects each irradiation device (70) and a target of each irradiation device (70) to each other. Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the second heat exchanger (42) with ultraviolet rays. In this case, the heat conductor (75) connects each irradiation device (70) and the second heat exchanger (42) to each other.

(7-1-3)

Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the filter (38) with ultraviolet rays. Thus, the surface and the inside of the filter (38) can be sterilized. Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the dust removal mechanism of the filter (38) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-4)

Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate, of air conveyed by the indoor fan (50), air outside the casing (31) with ultraviolet rays. Specifically, each irradiation device (70) may irradiate air sucked into the suction port (32) with ultraviolet rays. Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate air blown out from the blowout port (33) with ultraviolet rays.

(7-1-5)

Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate the indoor fan (50) as a fan with ultraviolet rays. Thus, the indoor fan (50) can be sterilized.

(7-1-6)

Each irradiation device (70) may irradiate an inner wall of the casing (31) or an inner wall facing the air passage (34) with ultraviolet rays. Thus, these inner walls can be sterilized.

(7-2) Modification 2: Relationship Between Irradiation Devices and Air Flow

Each irradiation device (70) may be disposed on the downstream side of an air flow in the indoor heat exchanger (40). Each LED (72) may emit ultraviolet rays toward the upstream side of the air flow.

(7-3) Modification 3: Modification Relating to System of Air-Conditioning Apparatus

(7-3-1)

The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may include a ceiling-mounted indoor unit (30). Here, the ceiling-mounted indoor unit (30) includes a ceiling embedded type in which the indoor unit (30) is embedded in a ceiling surface, and a ceiling suspended type in which the indoor unit (30) is suspended from an upper wall.

FIG. 6 is a vertical sectional view of the indoor unit (30). The indoor unit (30) includes a casing (31) installed in an attic. The casing (31) includes a casing body (35) and a panel (36). The casing body (35) is formed in a rectangular box shape in which an opening surface is formed on a lower side. The panel (36) is detachably attached to the opening surface of the casing body (35). The panel (36) has a rectangular frame-shaped panel body (36a) and a suction grille (36b) provided at the center of the panel body (36a).

One suction port (32) is formed at the center of the panel body (36a). The suction grille (36b) is attached to the suction port (32). A blow-out port (33) is formed in each of four side edges of the panel body (36a). Each blow-out port (33) extends along a corresponding one of the four side edges. A flap (39) is provided inside each blow-out port (33). In the casing (31), an air passage (34) is formed from the suction port (32) to the blow-out ports (33).

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

In this example, each irradiation device (70) is disposed on the upstream side of the indoor heat exchanger (40). Each irradiation device (70) irradiates the drain pan (60) with ultraviolet rays.

The heat conductor (75) of the present example connects each irradiation device (70) and the fins (not shown) of the indoor heat exchanger (40). As a result, the heat of each LED (72) can be dissipated into the air through the fins.

(7-3-2)

The indoor unit (30) may be of a floor-standing type or a duct-type installed in an attic.

(7-3-3) The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may have the function of ventilating the indoor space (I). The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may have the function of humidifying or dehumidifying. The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may have the function of purifying air.

(7-3-4)

In the indoor unit (30), heat is exchanged between a refrigerant and air in the indoor heat exchanger (40).

However, the indoor heat exchanger (40) may cause the air and a heat medium other than the refrigerant, such as water or brine, to exchange heat.

(7-3-5)

The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may be of a multi-type having a plurality of indoor units (30). The air-conditioning apparatus (10) may include a plurality of outdoor units (20).

(7-4) Modification 4: Modification Related to Control of Irradiation Devices

(7-4-1)

The control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to the ON state when the operation of the air-conditioning apparatus (10) is stopped. Specifically, the control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to the ON state immediately after the end of the cooling operation, for example. In this case, each irradiation device (70) irradiates the drain pan (60) with ultraviolet rays. Since condensed water is easily accumulated in the drain pan (60) immediately after the end of the cooling operation, the water in the drain pan (60) can be reliably sterilized.

(7-4-2)

The control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to an OFF state in the heating operation. Also in this case, the control unit (100) may cause the output of each irradiation device (70) during the cooling operation to be larger than the output (zero) thereof during the heating operation.

(7-4-3) The control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to the ON state during the cooling operation of an air-conditioning apparatus (10) dedicated to cooling.

(7-4-4) The control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to the ON state during the heating operation of an air-conditioning apparatus (10) dedicated to heating.

(7-5) Modification 5: Modification Related to Structure of Heat Conductor

(7-5-1)

As shown in FIG. 7, the heat conductor (75) may be a part of the fins (F). FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a fin (F) as viewed in a thickness direction. The fin (F) has a rectangular plate-like fin body (Fa) and a projection (Fb) integral with the fin body (Fa). The projection (Fb) protrudes outward from an end of the fin body (Fa) in a width direction. The fin body (Fa) and the projection (Fb) are integrally formed. Specifically, the fin body (Fa) and the projection (Fb) are integrally formed by press working. The projection (Fb) is the heat conductor (75) that connects a corresponding one of the irradiation devices (70) and the fin body (Fa). The irradiation device (70) of the example of FIG. 7 is provided on a side surface of the projection (Fb).

With this structure, since the heat conductor (75) is also used as a part of the fins (F), the number of components can be reduced. In addition, since the heat conductor (75) and each fin (F) are formed from one member, heat transfer from the heat conductor to the fin body (Fa) is promoted. As a result, the heat dissipation effect of each LED (72) is improved.

(7-5-2)

In the example shown in FIG. 8, a folded surface (Fc) is formed at a tip portion of the projection (Fb). The folded surface (Fc) is formed by folding the tip portion of the projection (Fb). The folded surface (Fb) faces downward. The irradiation device (70) is provided on the folded surface (Fb). As a result, ultraviolet rays can be emitted downward from the LED (72).

(7-5-3)

The heat conductor (75) may be provided with a heat dissipation promoting unit for promoting heat dissipation. The heat dissipation promoting unit may be a heat sink or a heat pipe.

(7-5-4)

The heat conductor (75) may be made of any material having a high heat transfer rate, and the material may be, for example, zinc, copper, or brass. The heat conductor (75) is not necessarily made of a metal material, and may be made of a carbon material such as graphite.

(7-6) Modification 6: First Example in which Heat Dissipating Unit is Provided on Inner Surface of Casing

As shown in FIG. 9, an air-conditioning apparatus (10) of Modification 6 includes a wall-mounted indoor unit (30). A first heat-dissipating member (91) serving as the heat-dissipating unit is provided on an inner surface of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30). The casing (31) includes a front plate (31a). The front plate (31a) constitutes a front surface of the casing (31). The front plate (31a) is made of a resin material.

The first heat-dissipating member (91) is fixed to an inner surface of the front plate (31a). The first heat-dissipating member (91) is made of a material having high thermal conductivity. The first heat-dissipating member (91) of the present example is made of a metal material. The first heat-dissipating member (91) is made from a metal plate or a metal tape. The first heat-dissipating member (91) may be made of a resin material having high thermal conductivity. The first heat-dissipating member (91) extends along the inner surface of the front plate (31a). The first heat-dissipating member (91) faces the air passage (34). Air flowing through the air passage (34) flows along the first heat-dissipating member (91). The first heat-dissipating member (91) is disposed on the upstream side of the air flow with respect to the heat exchanger (40). The first heat-dissipating member (91) may be fixed to a side plate of the casing (31). The side plate constitutes a side surface of the casing (31) in a left-right direction.

Each irradiation device (70) is fixed to the first heat-dissipating member (91) serving as a heat-dissipating unit. Each irradiation device (70) of the present example is directly fixed to the first heat-dissipating member (91). Examples of a method for directly fixing each irradiation device (70) to the heat-dissipating unit include fixing by fastening with a screw or the like, fixing by adhesion, fixing by fitting, and fixing by press-fitting. These fixing methods can also be adopted in the above-described embodiments or other modifications. Each irradiation device (70) may be fixed to the first heat-dissipating member (91) via the heat conductor (75).

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

In Modification 6, when each LED (72) generates heat, the heat is transferred to the first heat-dissipating member (91). The heat transferred to the first heat-dissipating member (91) is dissipated into the air in the air passage (34). The control unit (100) sets each irradiation device (70) to the ON state in the cooling operation and the heating operation. Since the control unit (100) operates the indoor fan (50) in the cooling operation and the heating operation, the first heat-dissipating member (91) can be cooled by the air flowing through the air passage (34). Since the first heat-dissipating member (91) is located upstream of the indoor heat exchanger (40), the first heat-dissipating member (91) can be sufficiently cooled by air even in the heating operation.

The control unit (100) may set each irradiation device (70) to the ON state when the air-conditioning apparatus (10) is stopped. Also in this case, the heat of each irradiation device (70) can be dissipated from the first heat-dissipating member (91) into the air.

Since the installation space for the first heat-dissipating member (91) can be ensured on the inner surface of the casing (31), the area of the first heat-dissipating member (91) can be easily increased. Thus, the heat dissipation performance of the first heat-dissipating member (91) can be improved.

(7-7) Modification 7: First Example in which a Part of the Casing is a Heat-Dissipating Unit

As shown in FIG. 10, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) of Modification 7 includes a wall-mounted indoor unit (30). A part of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30) constitutes a heat-dissipating unit. To be specific, at least a part of the front plate (31a) of the casing (31) is formed from a second heat-dissipating member (92) having high thermal conductivity. The second heat-dissipating member (92) is made of a metal material, but may be made of a resin material having high thermal conductivity. The second heat-dissipating member (92) is formed in a plate shape facing the air passage (34). The second heat-dissipating member (92) may be formed on a side plate of the casing (31). The other basic configuration of the air-conditioning apparatus (10) of Modification 7 is the same as that of Modification 6.

In Modification 7, the heat-dissipating unit is constituted by a part of the casing (31). Therefore, the number of components can be reduced. Further, with this structure, the heat transferred to the second heat-dissipating member (92) can be dissipated not only into the air in the air passage (34) but also into the air outside the casing (31). Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the heat-dissipating unit can be improved.

(7-8) Modification 8: Second Example in which a Part of the Casing is a Heat-Dissipating Unit

As shown in FIG. 11, the air-conditioning apparatus (10) of Modification 8 includes a ceiling-mounted indoor unit (30) as in Modification 3. A part of the casing (31) of the indoor unit (30) constitutes a heat-dissipating unit. To be more specific, at least a part of a top plate (31b) of the casing (31) is formed from the second heat-dissipating member (92) having high thermal conductivity. The second heat-dissipating member (92) of the top plate (31b) faces the air passage (34). The second heat-dissipating member (92) may be a side plate of the casing.

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

Also in Modification 8, the heat-dissipating unit is constituted by a part of the casing (31). Therefore, the number of components can be reduced. Since the top plate (31b) has a relatively large area as compared with that of a side plate, the heat dissipation performance of the heat-dissipating unit can be improved.

(7-9) Other Structures of Heat-Dissipating Unit

The heat-dissipating unit may be provided in any component as long as the component is made of a material having high thermal conductivity. The heat-dissipating unit may be a drain pan made of a metal or a resin material having thermal conductivity. The heat-dissipating unit may be a tube plate of the heat exchanger (40), a header collecting pipe of the heat exchanger (40), a flow divider, a refrigerant pipe, or a water pipe. As described above, the heat-dissipating unit is preferably an element part of the air-conditioning apparatus (10). Here, the element part is a part provided to achieve the original functions of the air-conditioning apparatus (10). In the case of the element part, it is not necessary to separately provide a part for heat dissipation, so that the number of parts and the cost can be reduced.

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

The words “first,” “second,” “third,” . . . above are used to distinguish between terms to which they are added, and are not intended to limit the number or order of the terms.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, the present disclosure is useful for an air-conditioning apparatus.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

• • F fin (heat-dissipating unit)
  • 10 air-conditioning apparatus
  • 31 casing
  • 34 air passage
  • 40 indoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger)
  • 50 indoor fan (fan)
  • 60 drain pan
  • 70 irradiation device
  • 72 LED
  • 75 heat conductor
  • 91 first heat-dissipating member (heat-dissipating unit)
  • 92 second heat-conducting member (heat-dissipating unit)
  • 100 control unit

Claims

1. An air-conditioning apparatus comprising:

an irradiation device including an LED configured to emit an ultraviolet ray; and

a heat-dissipating unit configured to dissipate heat of the irradiation device into air.

2. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

a heat exchanger including a plurality of fins as the heat-dissipating unit and causing air and a heat medium to exchange heat; and

a heat conductor configured to connect the irradiation device and the fins.

3. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a control unit configured to set the irradiation device to an ON state during a cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger.

4. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a control unit configured to set the irradiation device to an ON state during a heating operation in which air is heated by the heat exchanger.

5. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a control unit configured to cause an output of the irradiation device during a cooling operation in which air is cooled by the heat exchanger to be larger than an output of the irradiation device during a heating operation in which air is heated by the heat exchanger.

6. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a control unit configured to set the irradiation device to an ON state when an operation of the air-conditioning apparatus is stopped.

7. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a drain pan,

wherein the irradiation device emits the ultraviolet ray toward the drain pan.

8. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the irradiation device emits the ultraviolet ray toward the heat exchanger.

9. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, comprising:

a fan configured to convey air,

wherein the irradiation device emits the ultraviolet ray toward the air conveyed by the fan.

10. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the heat exchanger is configured to cool air by the heat medium, and

wherein the irradiation device is disposed on an upstream side of an air flow with respect to the heat exchanger.

11. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the LED faces a downstream side of an air flow.

12. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the heat conductor is a part of the fins.

13. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

a heat conductor configured to connect the irradiation device and the heat-dissipating unit.

14. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the heat-dissipating unit and the heat conductor is a metal material.

15. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein a heat transfer rate of at least one of the heat-dissipating unit and the heat conductor is 80 w/m·K or greater.

16. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

a casing having an air passage formed therein,

wherein the heat-dissipating unit includes a first heat-dissipating member fixed to an inner surface of the casing.

17. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the first heat-dissipating member includes a metal plate or a metal tape.

18. The air-conditioning apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

a casing having an air passage formed therein,

wherein the heat-dissipating unit includes a second heat-dissipating member constituted by a part of the casing.