OUTDOOR UNIT OF AIR CONDITIONER

Abstract

An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include a case that forms an outer appearance; a barrier that divides an inner space of the case into a heat exchange space and an electric space; a heat exchanger disposed in the heat exchange space; a fan disposed in the heat exchange space; a compressor disposed in the electric space; and a grille assembly detachably coupled to a front surface of the case. The grille assembly may include a first grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the heat exchange space; a second grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the electric space; and a grille cover coupled to cover an upper portion of the first grille plate and an upper portion of the second grille plate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119 and 35 U.S.C. 365 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0102253, filed in Korea on Aug. 4, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

An outdoor unit of an air conditioner is disclosed herein.

2. Background

An air conditioner is a device that cools and heats an indoor space by heat exchange between a refrigerant flowing in a heat exchange cycle and indoor air and outdoor air. The air conditioner includes a compressor that compresses the refrigerant, an outdoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and outdoor air, and an indoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and indoor air.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include a case, the compressor and the outdoor heat exchanger accommodated inside of the case, and a fan for intake and exhaust of air. An outdoor unit cover may be provided on an outer surface of the outdoor unit to block sunlight from the outside or prevent rainwater or foreign substances from penetrating. The outdoor unit cover is installed to cover an upper surface or a side of the outdoor unit, and thus, can block sunlight or prevent rainwater from penetrating.

However, the conventional outdoor unit cover is used to simply cover the upper surface or the side surface of the outdoor unit, so it cannot protect a front surface of the outdoor unit and an overall outer appearance of the outdoor unit is poor. Additionally, when the outdoor unit cover is installed to cover the front surface of the outdoor unit, there is a problem in that the air forced to flow by the fan is blocked by the outdoor unit cover, resulting in air flow resistance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the outdoor unit in a state in which a grille assembly is coupled thereto according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a front panel in a state in which the grille assembly is coupled thereto;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a first grille plate according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the first grille plate of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the first grille plate of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a second grille plate according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of the second grille plate of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the second grille plate of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a grille cover according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the grille cover of a portion of a rear of the grille cover of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the grille cover of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a view illustrating an assembly sequence of the grille assembly;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are views illustrating a method for coupling a first hook of the first grille plate to a first hook hole of a first front panel;

FIGS. 16 and 17 are views illustrating a method for coupling a coupling rib of the grille cover to a first coupling groove of the first grille plate; and

FIGS. 18 and 19 are views illustrating a method for coupling a coupling protrusion of the grille cover to a second coupling groove of the first grille plate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made to embodiments disclosed herein, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or like reference numerals have been used to indicate the same or like components, and repetitive disclosure has been omitted.

In the following description of embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration of embodiments which may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical structural, mechanical, electrical, and chemical changes may be made without departing from the scope. To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Also, in the description of embodiments, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b) or the like may be used herein when describing components. Each of these terminologies is not used to define an essence, order or sequence of a corresponding component but used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other component(s). It should be noted that if it is described in the specification that one component is “connected,” “coupled” or “joined” to another component, the former may be directly “connected,” “coupled,” and “joined” to the latter or “connected”, “coupled”, and “joined” to the latter via another component.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the outdoor unit in a state in which a grille assembly is coupled thereto according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, outdoor unit 10 of an air conditioner according to an embodiment may include a case that forms an outer appearance of the outdoor unit 10. The case may include a base panel 11 forming a bottom surface of the outdoor unit 10, a first front panel 12 disposed on one or a first side of a front end portion of the base panel 11, and a second front panel 13 disposed on the other or a second side of the front end portion of the base panel 11. The case may further include a side panel 14 disposed on a side of the base panel 11 and a top panel 15 forming an upper surface of the outdoor unit 10.

The outdoor unit 10 may further include an orifice 16 coupled to the first front panel 12, a fan 17 disposed behind the orifice 16, and a heat exchanger disposed on an upper surface of the base panel 11. The fan 17 may be disposed at a front of the heat exchanger.

The outdoor unit 10 may further include a barrier 19 disposed on the upper surface of the base panel 11. The barrier 19 may divide an upper space of the base panel 11 into a heat exchange space 11a on a left or first side and an electric space 11b on a right or second side. The heat exchanger may be disposed in the heat exchange space 11a. The heat exchanger may be bent and extend alongside and rear end portions of the base panel 11 to define side and rear surfaces of the heat exchange space 11a.

One or a first side end portion of the first front panel 12 may be coupled to a front end portion of the heat exchanger, and the other or a second side end portion may be coupled to a front end portion of the barrier 19. A rear end portion of the barrier 19 may be connected to a side end portion of the heat exchanger.

The outdoor unit 10 may further include a compressor and a heat storage tank disposed on the upper surface of the base panel 11 corresponding to the electric space 11b. The refrigerant that has passed through the heat storage tank may be guided to the heat exchanger along the refrigerant pipe. The refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger may pass through an expansion valve and then be guided to a heat exchanger of an indoor unit. The refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit may pass through a gas-liquid separator and then be recovered by the compressor.

When the fan 17 rotates, outdoor air is introduced into the outdoor unit 10 through a short side portion of the heat exchanger forming a side of the outdoor unit 10 and a long side portion of the heat exchanger forming a rear surface of the outdoor unit 10. The air that has passed through the heat exchanger flows from a rear surface to a front surface of the fan 17, passes through the orifice 16, and then may be discharged outside of the outdoor unit 10.

A portion of a plurality of blades constituting the fan 17 may be accommodated inside of the orifice 16 so that all air forced to flow by the fan 17 passes through the orifice 16.

The outdoor unit 10 may further include a grille assembly 100 detachably coupled to a front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The grille assembly 100 may be installed on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 to protect the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The grille assembly 100 may block rainwater or foreign substances introduced onto the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 from the outside. The grille assembly 100 may cover an entire front surface of the outdoor unit 10 to improve the outer appearance of the front surface of the outdoor unit 10.

The grille assembly 100 may include a first grille plate 110, a second grille plate 120, and a grille cover 130 coupled to the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The first grille plate 110 may be coupled to the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 and cover a first portion of the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The first grille plate 110 may be detachably coupled to the front surface of the first front panel 12. The first grille plate 110 may cover a portion of the orifice 16 where the fan 17 is located.

The second grille plate 120 may be coupled to the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 and cover a second portion of the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The second grille plate 120 may be detachably coupled to the front surface of the second front panel 13. The second grille plate 120 may be disposed on or at a side of the first grille plate 110.

The first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120 may be connected to each other. The first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120 may be disposed side by side in a left and right or lateral direction on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The front surface of the first grille plate 110 and the front surface of the second grille plate 120 may be disposed on a same plane.

The grille cover 130 may be coupled to the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120, and have a function of fixing the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120. The grille cover 130 may be coupled to an upper portion of the first grille plate 110 and an upper portion of the second grille plate 120.

The grille cover 130 may be coupled to cover the upper portion of the first grille plate 110 and the upper portion of the second grille plate 120. The grille cover 130 may be disposed on an upper end of the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. A first portion of the grille cover 130 may be disposed on an upper end of the first front panel 12, and a second portion of the grille cover 130 may be disposed on an upper end of the second front panel 13.

Hereinafter, the first grille plate, the second grille plate, and the grille cover according to an embodiment disclosed herein will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a front panel in a state in which a grille assembly is coupled thereto. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a first grille plate according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a rear view of the first grille plate of FIG. 4, and FIG. 6 is a top view of the first grille plate of FIG. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the first grille plate 110 may be coupled to a front surface of the first front panel 12 and cover the front surface of the first front panel 12. The first grille plate 110 may have a shape corresponding to a shape of the front surface of the first front panel 12. For example, the first grille plate 110 may have a square panel shape.

The first grille plate 110 may include a first plate 111 coupled to the front surface of the first front panel 12, a first cover portion 112 coupled to an upper end of the first plate 111, and a first grille portion 113 provided on a front surface of the first plate 111. The first plate 111 may define both sides and a rear surface of the first grille plate 110, the first cover portion 112 may define an upper surface of the first grille plate 110, and the first grille portion 113 may define a front surface of the first grille plate 110.

The first plate 111 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the front surface of the first front panel 12 and may be coupled to the front surface of the first front panel 12. The first plate 111 may be formed, for example, as a square panel with a constant thickness in a frontward and rearward direction.

The first plate 111 may include a first hook 111a configured to be coupled to the first front panel 12. The first hook 111a may extend rearward from a rear surface of the first plate 111. A plurality of the first hook 111a may be formed on the rear surface of the first plate 111. The plurality of first hooks 111a may be spaced apart along a rear edge of the first plate 111.

The first hook 111a may be inserted into and fastened to a first hook hole 12a formed in the first front panel 12. The first hook hole 12a may penetrate from the front surface to a rear surface of the first front panel 12. The first hook hole 12a may be formed at an edge of the first front panel 12. A plurality of the first hook hole 12a may be spaced apart from each other along an edge of the first front panel 12.

The first plate 111 may further include a through-hole 111b formed at a position corresponding to the orifice 16 of the first front panel 12. The through-hole 111b may be formed in or at a center of the first plate 111. The through-hole 111b may penetrate from the front surface to the rear surface of the first plate 111.

The through-hole 111b may be formed in a shape corresponding to the orifice 16. The through-hole 111b may face the orifice 16, so that air passing through the orifice 16 may be discharged outside of the outdoor unit 10 through the first grille portion 113.

The first cover portion 112 may be mounted on an upper surface of the first plate 111. For example, the first cover portion 112 may be formed in a plate shape that is narrow in the frontward and rearward direction and long in the leftward and rightward or lateral direction. The first cover portion 112 may be coupled to the upper end of the first plate 111. When the first cover portion 112 is coupled to the first plate 111, the upper surface of the first plate 111 may be covered by the first cover portion 112.

The first cover portion 112 may include a first coupling groove 112a configured to be coupled to the grille cover 130. The first coupling groove 112a may be formed on an upper surface of the first cover portion 112. The first coupling groove 112a may be formed, for example, by cutting a portion of the upper surface of the first cover portion 112. A plurality of the first coupling groove 112a may be formed. The plurality of first coupling grooves 112a may be spaced apart in a longitudinal direction on the upper surface of the first cover portion 112.

The first cover portion 112 may further include a second coupling groove 112b configured to be coupled to the grille cover 130. The second coupling groove 112b may be formed on a side of the first cover portion 112. The second coupling groove 112b may be formed, for example, by recessing a portion of the side of the first cover portion 112. The second coupling groove 112b may be formed on one of both sides of the first cover portion 112. For example, the second coupling groove 112b may be formed on a left or first side of both sides of the first cover portion 112.

The first grille portion 113 may include a plurality of ribs to form a grille shape. The first grille portion 113 may be provided on the front surface of the first plate 111. The first grille portion 113 may protrude from an inside to the front surface of the first plate 111.

The first grille portion 113 may include a plurality of horizontal ribs 113a that extends in a horizontal direction and a plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b that extends in a vertical direction. The plurality of horizontal ribs 113a may be formed entirely on the front surface of the first plate 111. The plurality of horizontal ribs 113a may be spaced apart in the vertical direction on the front surface of the first plate 111. The plurality of horizontal ribs 113a may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals.

The plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may be formed on a portion of the front surface of the first plate 111. For example, the plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may be provided in a corresponding area of the first plate 111 facing the through-hole 111b. The plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may cover the through-hole 111b.

The plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may be formed only in an area of a circular flow path portion forming the air flow path. The plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may connect two adjacent horizontal ribs 113a. The plurality of longitudinal ribs 113b may be disposed at irregular intervals between the plurality of horizontal ribs 113a.

Due to the configuration of the horizontal ribs 113a and the longitudinal ribs 113b, exposure of the fan 17 to the outside of the outdoor unit 10 may be minimized. In addition, as the horizontal ribs 113a and longitudinal ribs 113b cover the orifice 16 where the fan 17 is accommodated, it is possible to prevent rainwater or foreign substances from penetrating from the outside.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a second grille plate according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the second grille plate of FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a top view of the second grille plate of FIG. 7.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 7 to 9, the second grille plate 120 may be coupled to a front surface of the second front panel 13 and cover the front surface of the second front panel 13. The second grille plate 120 may have a shape corresponding to a shape of the front surface of the second front panel 13. For example, the second grille plate 120 may have a square panel shape.

In this embodiment, the second grille plate 120 may be smaller than the first grille plate 110. However, embodiments are not limited to this, and when the second front panel 13 is formed larger than the first front panel 12, the second grille plate 120 may be formed larger than the first grille plate 110.

The second grille plate 120 may include a second plate 121 coupled to the front surface of the second front panel 13, a second cover portion 122 coupled to an upper end of the second plate 121, and a second grille portion 123 provided on a front surface of the second plate 121. The second plate 121 may define both sides and a rear surface of the second grille plate 120, the second cover portion 122 may define an upper surface of the second grille plate 120, and the second grille portion 123 may define a front surface of the second grille plate 120.

The second plate 121 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the front surface of the second front panel 13 and may be coupled to the front surface of the second front panel 13. For example, second plate 121 may be formed as a square panel with a constant thickness in the frontward and rearward direction. A thickness of the second plate 121 may be formed to be the same as the thickness of the first plate 111.

The second plate 121 may include a second hook 121a configured to be coupled to the second front panel 13. The second hook 121a may extend rearward from a rear surface of the second plate 121. A plurality of the second hook 121a may be formed on the rear surface of the second plate 121. The plurality of second hooks 121a may be spaced apart along a rear edge of the second plate 121.

The second hook 121a may be inserted into and fastened to a second hook hole 13a formed in the second front panel 13. The second hook hole 13a may penetrate from the front surface to a rear surface of the second front panel 13. The second hook hole 13a may be formed at an edge of the second front panel 13. A plurality of the second hook hole 13a may be spaced apart along the edge of the second front panel 13.

The second cover portion 122 may be mounted on the upper surface of the second plate 121. The second cover portion 122 may correspond to a shape of the first cover portion 112.

For example, the second cover portion 122 may be formed in a plate shape that is narrow in the frontward and rearward direction and long in the left and right or lateral direction. The second cover portion 122 may be coupled to the upper end of the second plate 121. When the second cover portion 122 is coupled to the second plate 121, the upper surface of the second plate 121 may be covered by the second cover portion 122.

The second cover portion 122 may include a first coupling groove 122a configured to be coupled to the grille cover 130. The first coupling groove 122a of the second cover portion 122 may correspond to the shape of the first coupling groove 112a of the first cover portion 112.

The first coupling groove 122a may be formed on the upper surface of the second cover portion 122. The first coupling groove 122a may be formed, for example, by cutting a portion of the upper surface of the second cover portion 122. A plurality of the first coupling groove 122a may be formed. The plurality of first coupling grooves 122a may be spaced apart in a longitudinal direction on the upper surface of the second cover portion 122.

The second cover portion 122 may further include a second coupling groove 122b configured to be coupled to the grille cover 130. The second coupling groove 122b of the second cover portion 122 may correspond to a shape of the second coupling groove 112b of the first cover portion 112.

The second coupling groove 122b may be formed on a side of the second cover portion 122. The second coupling groove 122b may be formed, for example, by recessing a portion of the side of the second cover portion 122. The second coupling groove 122b may be formed on one of both sides of the second cover portion 122. For example, the second coupling groove 122b may be formed on a right or first lateral side of both sides of the second cover portion 122.

The second grille portion 123 may include a plurality of ribs to form a grille shape. The second grille portion 123 may be provided on the front surface of the second plate 121. The second grille portion 123 may protrude from the inside to the front surface of the second plate 121.

The second grille portion 123 may include a plurality of horizontal ribs that extends in the horizontal direction. The plurality of horizontal ribs may be formed entirely on the front surface of the second plate 121. The plurality of horizontal ribs may be spaced apart in the vertical direction on the front surface of the second plate 121. The plurality of horizontal ribs may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals.

The upper surface of the first cover portion 112 and the upper surface of the second cover portion 122 may be disposed on a same plane. The grille cover 130 may be coupled to cover the upper surface of the first cover portion 112 and the upper surface of the second cover portion 122. The front surface of the first grille portion 113 and the front surface of the second grille portion 123 may be disposed on a same plane.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a grille cover according to an embodiment. FIG. 11 is a rear view of grillea portion of a rear of the grille cover of FIG. 10, and FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the grille cover of FIG. 10.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 10 to 12, the grille cover 130 may be coupled and fixed to upper portions of the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120, respectively. The grille cover 130 may be narrow in the frontward and rearward direction and long in the leftward and rightward or lateral direction. The grille cover 130 may be formed in the shape of a rod or stick extending in the lateral direction, for example.

For example, the grille cover 130 may include a front surface portion 131 that forms a front surface thereof, an upper surface portion 132 that forms an upper surface thereof, and side portions 133 that form both sides thereof. The front surface, the upper surface, and both sides of the grille cover 130 may be closed, and a rear surface and a lower surface may be open. At least a portion of the upper surface 132 of the grille cover 130 may be inclined.

The grille cover 130 may further include a plurality of coupling ribs 134 configured to be coupled to the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120. The plurality of coupling ribs 134 may extend inward from an inner surface of the grille cover 130. The plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the grille cover 130 on the inner surface of the grille cover 130.

Some of the plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be coupled to the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110, and some of the remaining coupling ribs 134 may be coupled to the first coupling groove 122a of the second grille plate 1210.

In this embodiment, the coupling ribs 134 include of a total of six, with three coupling ribs 134 coupled to the first grille plate 110 and the remaining three coupling ribs 134 being coupled to the second grille plate 120. However, embodiments are not limited to this, and the number of coupling ribs 134 may vary according to the number of the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110 and the first coupling groove 122a of the second grille plate 120.

The plurality of coupling ribs 134 may include a first rib 134a that extends rearward from the front surface portion 131 of the grille cover 130, and a second rib 134b that extends downward from the first rib 134a, respectively. The first rib 134a may extend rearward from the rear surface of the front surface portion 131 of the grille cover 130. The first rib 134a may extend horizontally to the ground to face the upper surface portion 132 of the grille cover 130.

The second rib 134b may extend downward from an end portion of the first rib 134a. The second rib 134b may extend vertically from a rear end portion of the first rib 134a.

Some of the first ribs 134a of the plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be supported on the upper surface of the first cover portion 112 of the first grille plate 110, and some of the second ribs 134b of the plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be inserted into the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110. The second rib 134b may be engaged to the inside of the first coupling groove 112a.

When the second rib 134b is coupled to the first coupling groove 112a, forward movement of the second rib 134b may be restricted. In other words, when the grille cover 130 is fixed to the first grille plate 110, movement in the frontward and rearward direction may be restricted.

The first ribs 134a of the remaining portion of the plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be supported on the upper surface of the second cover portion 122 of the second grille plate 120, and the second ribs 134b of the remaining portion of the plurality of coupling ribs 134 may be inserted into the first coupling groove 122a of the second grille plate 120. The second rib 134b may be engaged to an inside of the first coupling groove 122a using, for example, a hook method.

When the second rib 134b is coupled to the first coupling groove 122a, forward movement of the second rib 134b may be restricted. In other words, when the grille cover 130 is fixed to the second grille plate 120, movement in the frontward and rearward direction may be restricted.

Additionally, the grille cover 130 may further include a coupling protrusion 135 configured to be coupled to the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120. The coupling protrusion 135 may protrude inward from the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130. The coupling protrusion 135 may be formed on one or a first side portion 133 and the other or a second side portion 133 of the grille cover 130, respectively. The coupling protrusion 135 formed on the first side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the second coupling groove 112b of the first grille plate 110 and the coupling protrusion 135 formed on the second side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the second coupling groove 122b of the second grille plate 120.

The coupling protrusion 135 may include a first protrusion 135a that protrudes inward from the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130. The coupling protrusion 135 may further include a second protrusion 135b that protrudes inward from the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130.

The first protrusion 135a may protrude from the inner surface of the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 toward an inner center. The first protrusion 135a may be formed at the lower end portion of the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130.

The second protrusion 135b may protrude from the inner surface of the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 toward the inner center. The second protrusion 135b may be spaced upward from the first protrusion 135a. The first protrusion 135a and the second protrusion 135b may be spaced apart in the vertical direction.

The first protrusion 135a may protrude further inward than the second protrusion 135b. A length of a portion where the first protrusion 135a protrudes in the inward direction may be longer than a length of a portion where the second protrusion 135b protrudes in the inward direction.

The first protrusion 135a and the second protrusion 135b may extend from the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 in the frontward and rearward direction, respectively. The second protrusion 135b may increase in width or thickness from a rear end portion to a front end portion. In other words, a width or thickness of the front end portion of the second protrusion 135b may be greater than a width or thickness of the rear end portion of the second protrusion 135b.

The first protrusion 135a and the second protrusion 135b formed on the first side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 may be received and coupled to the second coupling groove 112b of the first grille plate 110, and the first protrusion 135a and the second protrusion 135b formed on the second side portion 133 of the grille cover 130 may be received and coupled to the second coupling groove 122b of the second grille plate 120.

When the coupling protrusion 135 is coupled to the second coupling grooves 112b and 122b, movement of the coupling protrusion 135 in the vertical direction and in the left and right or lateral direction may be restricted. That is, when the grille cover 130 is fixed to the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120, movement in the vertical direction and the left and right or lateral directions may be restricted.

The grille cover 130 may further include a recessed portion 136 that is recessed in the side portion 133 of the grille cover 130. The recessed portion 136 may be recessed from the inner surface of the side portion the grille cover 130 toward the outside. The recessed portion 136 may extend from the grille cover 130 in the frontward and rearward direction.

The second protrusion 135b may be formed in the recessed portion 136. The second protrusion 135b may protrude from the depression 136 toward the inner center.

Hereinafter, an assembly sequence of the grille assembly will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 13 is a view illustrating an assembly sequence of the grille assembly. FIGS. 14 and 15 are views illustrating a method for coupling a first hook of the first grille plate to a first hook hole of the first front panel. FIGS. 16 and 17 are views illustrating a method for coupling a coupling rib of the grille cover to a first coupling groove of the first grille plate, and FIGS. 18 and 19 are views illustrating a method for coupling a coupling protrusion of the grille cover to a second coupling groove of the first grille plate.

Referring to FIG. 13, as described above, the grille assembly 100 may be assembled on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10. The first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120 are first assembled on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10, and then the grille cover 130 may be assembled on the upper sides of the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120.

The first grille plate 110 may be first assembled on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 and then the second grille plate 120 may be assembled. Alternatively, the second grille plate 120 may be first assembled on the front surface of the outdoor unit 10 and then the first grille plate 110 may be assembled.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, after positioning the first grille plate 110 in front of the first front panel 12, the first hook 111a of the first grille plate 110 may be passed through the first hook hole 12a of the first front panel 12. Then, the first hook 111a that has passed through the first hook hole 12a may be pushed toward a center of the first front panel 12, so that an inner groove of the first hook 111a may be inserted into the first hook hole 12a.

When the first hook 111a is completely coupled to the first hook hole 12a, a lower surface of the first hook 111a may be supported by a rib that extends from a lower edge of the first hook hole 12a. When the first hook 111a is coupled to the first hook hole 12a, the first grille plate 110 may be restricted from moving in the frontward and rearward direction. In other words, when the first grille plate 110 is fixed to the first front panel 12, movement of the first grille plate 110 in the frontward and rearward direction may be restricted.

In the same way, after placing the second grille plate 120 in front of the second front panel 13, the second grille plate 120 may be assembled to the second front panel 13 using the second hook 121a of the second grille plate 120. However, the first hook 111a of the first grille plate 110 and the second hook 121a of the second grille plate 120 may be formed in a laterally symmetrical shape.

A direction in which the first hook 111a is coupled to the first hook hole 12a may be opposite to a direction in which the second hook 121a is coupled to the second hook hole 13a.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, in a state in which the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120 are assembled to the outdoor unit 10, the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the upper portions of the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120. More specifically, after inserting the lower end portion of the grille cover 130 into the lower end portion of the first cover portion 112, the coupling rib 134 of the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110.

At this time, an insertion portion 137 that extends rearward from the lower end portion may be formed on the front surface portion 131 of the grille cover 130, and an insertion groove 112c configured to receive the insertion portion 137 may be formed on the front end portion of the first cover portion 112. When the lower end portion of the grille cover 130 is inserted into the lower end portion of the first cover portion 112, the grille cover 130 is rotated so that the coupling rib 134 is inserted into the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110.

At this time, the first rib 134a of the coupling rib 134 is supported on the upper surface of the first cover portion 112 of the first grille plate 110, and the second rib 134b of the coupling rib 134 may be engaged with the first coupling groove 112a of the first grille plate 110 in a hook manner.

In a state in which the second rib 134b is coupled to the first coupling groove 112a, forward movement of the second rib 134b may be restricted. In other words, in a state in which the grille cover 130 is fixed to the first grille plate 110, movement of the first grille plate in the frontward and rearward direction may be restricted.

In the same way, the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the second grille plate 120 using the coupling rib 134.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the coupling protrusion 135 of the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the second coupling groove 112b of the first grille plate 110. When the coupling protrusion 135 is inserted into the second coupling groove 112b, a portion 112d of the side of the first cover portion 112 may be inserted into the recessed portion 136 of the grille cover 130. More specifically, the portion 112d of the side of the first cover portion 112 may be fitted into the inner space formed by the recessed portion 136 and the second protrusion 135b. The inner space may be narrower in width from the rear end portion to the front end portion, corresponding to the shape of the second protrusion 135b.

In the same way, the grille cover 130 may be coupled to the second grille plate 120 using the coupling protrusion 135. In a state in which the coupling protrusion 135 is coupled to the second coupling grooves 112b and 122b, movement of the coupling protrusion 135 in the vertical direction and the left and right or lateral direction may be restricted. In other words, in a state in which the grille cover 130 is fixed to the first grille plate 110 and the second grille plate 120, movement of the coupling protrusion 135 in the vertical direction and both side directions may be restricted.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment configured as described above has at least the following advantages.

First, as a grille assembly is provided that covers the entire front surface of the outdoor unit, the front surface of the outdoor unit is protected and the outer appearance of the front surface of the outdoor unit is improved.

Second, as the first grille plate, the second grille plate, and the grille cover that constitute the grille assembly may be easily assembled sequentially on the front surface of the outdoor unit, disassembly and assembly of the grille assembly are facilitated.

Third, the portion of the grille assembly corresponding to the front of the fan is provided with a number of ribs that form an air flow path, thereby minimizing air flow resistance to the air discharged by the fan and preventing infiltration of rainwater or foreign substances from the outside.

Fourth, in a state in which the first grille plate and the second grille plate are coupled to the front surface of the outdoor unit, multiple coupling portions of the grille cover may be coupled to the first grille plate and the second grille plate, respectively, so that the grille assembly may be stably coupled to the outdoor unit.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that may protect the front surface of the outdoor unit.

Embodiments disclosed herein further provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that may have a beautiful outer appearance of the front appearance of the outdoor unit.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner that may prevent infiltration of rainwater or foreign substances from the outside.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which a grille assembly may be stably coupled to the front surface of the outdoor unit.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the grille assembly may be easily installed and removed.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which air flow resistance to air discharged through a grille assembly may be minimized.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment disclosed herein may include a case that forms the outer appearance. The outdoor unit may further include a barrier that divides an inner space of the case into a heat exchange space and an electric space.

The outdoor unit may further include a heat exchanger disposed in the heat exchange space. The outdoor unit may further include a fan disposed in the heat exchange space. The outdoor unit may further include a compressor disposed in the electric space.

The outdoor unit may further include a grille assembly detachably coupled to a front surface of the case. The grille assembly may include a first grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the heat exchange space. The grille assembly may further include a second grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the electric space. The grille assembly may further include a grille cover coupled to cover an upper portion of the first grille plate and an upper portion of the second grille plate.

A plurality of hook holes may be formed on the front surface of the case. On a rear surface of the first grille plate, a first hook may be formed that is coupled to some hook holes among the plurality of hook holes. On the rear surface of the second grille plate, a second hook may be formed that is coupled to other hook holes among the plurality of hook holes. A direction in which the first hook is coupled to some hook holes among the plurality of hook holes may be opposite to a direction in which the second hook is coupled to other hook holes among the plurality of hook holes.

The case may include a base panel. The case may further include a first front panel disposed on a front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the heat exchange space. The case may further include a second front panel disposed on a front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the electric space.

The first grille plate may be coupled to cover a front surface of the first front panel. The second grille plate may be coupled to cover a front surface of the second front panel.

The fan may be disposed at a front of the heat exchanger. The first grille plate may be disposed at a front of the fan.

The case may further include an orifice coupled to an inside of the first front panel. The fan may be disposed at a rear of the orifice.

The first grille plate may include a first plate coupled to the front surface of the case. The first grille plate may further include a first cover portion coupled to the upper end of the first plate. The first grille plate may further include a first grille portion provided on a front surface of the first plate.

The first grille portion may be disposed at a front of the fan. The first grille portion may include a plurality of horizontal ribs spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction. The first grille portion may further include a plurality of longitudinal ribs that connect the plurality of horizontal ribs and spaced apart from each other.

The second grille plate may include a second plate coupled to the front surface of the case. The second grille plate may further include a second cover portion coupled to an upper end of the second plate. The second grille plate may further include a second grille portion provided on a front surface of the second plate.

A front surface of the first grille portion and a front surface of the second grille portion may be disposed on a same plane. An upper surface of the first cover portion and an upper surface of the second cover portion may be disposed on a same plane. The grille cover may be coupled to cover the upper surface of the first cover portion and the upper surface of the second cover portion.

The grille cover may include a front surface portion forming a front surface thereof. The grille cover may further include an upper surface portion forming an upper surface thereof. The grille cover may further include side portions forming both sides thereof.

An upper portion of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate may be inserted and accommodated inside of the grille cover. The rear and bottom surfaces of the grille cover may be open.

A first coupling groove may be formed on the upper surface of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate. A coupling rib may be formed on the grille cover, which extends rearward from the front surface portion and is coupled to the first coupling groove.

The coupling rib may include a first rib that extends rearward from a rear surface of the front surface portion. The coupling rib may further include a second rib that extends downward from an end portion of the first rib. The second rib may be engaged with an inside of the first coupling groove. A second coupling groove may be formed on each side of the first grille plate and the second grille plate. A coupling protrusion may be formed on the grille cover, which extends inward from the side portion and is coupled to the second coupling groove.

The coupling protrusion may include a first protrusion that extends from an inner surface of the side portion toward an inner center.

The coupling protrusion may further include a second protrusion that extends from the inner surface of the side portion toward the inner center and spaced upward from the first protrusion.

An insertion groove may be formed at a front end portion of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate. An insertion portion may be formed in the grille cover, which extends rearward from a lower end of the front surface portion and is coupled to the insertion groove.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the element or layer can be directly on another element or layer or intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Spatially relative terms, such as “lower”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “lower” relative to other elements or features would then be oriented “upper” relative to the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures). As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Any reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” etc., means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the purview of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other ones of the embodiments.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising: a case that forms an outer appearance of the outdoor unit;a barrier that divides an inner space of the case into a heat exchange space and an electric space;a heat exchanger disposed in the heat exchange space;a fan disposed in the heat exchange space;a compressor disposed in the electric space; anda grille assembly detachably coupled to a front surface of the case, wherein the grille assembly includes: a first grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the heat exchange space;a second grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the electric space; anda grille cover coupled to cover an upper portion of the first grille plate and an upper portion of the second grille plate.

2. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 1, wherein a plurality of hook holes is formed on the front surface of the case, wherein grille at least one first hook is formed on a rear surface of the first grille plate that is coupled to a first portion of the plurality of hook holes, and wherein grille at least one second hook is formed on a rear surface of the second grille plate that is coupled to a second portion of among the plurality of hook holes.

3. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 2, wherein a direction in which the at least one first hook is coupled to the first portion of the plurality of hook holes is opposite to a direction in which the at least one second hook is coupled to the second portion of the plurality of hook holes.

4. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the case includes: a base panel;a first front panel disposed on a front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the heat exchange space; anda second front panel disposed on the front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the electric space.

5. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 4, wherein the first grille plate is configured to cover a front surface of the first front panel, and wherein the second grille plate is configured to cover a front surface of the second front panel.

6. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 5, wherein the fan is disposed at a front of the heat exchanger, and wherein the first grille plate is disposed at a front of the fan.

7. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 6, wherein the case further includes an orifice formed in the first front panel, and wherein the fan is disposed at a rear of the orifice.

8. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the first grille plate includes: a first plate coupled to the front surface of the case;a first cover portion coupled to an upper end of the first plate; anda first grille portion provided on a front surface of the first plate, and wherein the first grille portion is disposed in front of the fan.

9. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 8, wherein the first grille portion includes: a plurality of horizontal ribs spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction; anda plurality of longitudinal ribs that connects the plurality of horizontal ribs and spaced apart from each other.

10. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 8, wherein the second grille plate includes: a second plate coupled to the front surface of the case;a second cover portion coupled to an upper end of the second plate; anda second grille portion provided on a front surface of the second plate, and wherein a front surface of the first grille portion and a front surface of the second grille portion are disposed on a same plane.

11. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 10, wherein an upper surface of the first cover portion and an upper surface of the second cover portion are disposed on a same plane, and wherein the grille cover is configured to cover the upper surface of the first cover portion and the upper surface of the second cover portion.

12. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the grille cover includes: a front surface portion that forms a front surface thereof;an upper surface portion that forms an upper surface thereof; andside portions that form both sides thereof, and wherein an upper portion of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate is inserted and accommodated inside of the grille cover.

13. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 12, wherein rear and bottom surfaces of the grille cover are open.

14. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 12, wherein at least one first coupling groove is formed on the upper surface of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate, and wherein at least one coupling rib is formed on the grille cover, which extends rearward from the front surface portion and is coupled to the at least one first coupling groove.

15. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 14, wherein the at least one coupling rib includes: a first rib that extends rearward from a rear surface of the front surface portion; anda second rib that extends downward from an end portion of the first rib, and wherein the second rib is engaged with an inside of the first coupling groove.

16. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 12, wherein at least one second coupling groove is formed on each side of the first grille plate and the second grille plate, and wherein at least one coupling protrusion is formed on the grille cover, which extends inward from the side portion and is coupled to the at least one second coupling groove.

17. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 16, wherein the at least one coupling protrusion includes: a first protrusion that extends from an inner surface of the side portion toward an inner center; anda second protrusion that extends from the inner surface of the side portion toward the inner center and spaced upward from the first protrusion.

18. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 12, wherein an insertion groove is formed at a front end portion of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate, and wherein an insertion portion is formed in the grille cover, which extends rearward from a lower end of a front surface portion thereof and is coupled to the insertion grooves.

19. An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising: a case that forms an outer appearance of the outdoor unit;a barrier that divides an inner space of the case into a heat exchange space and an electric space;a heat exchanger disposed in the heat exchange space;a fan disposed in the heat exchange space;a compressor disposed in the electric space; anda grille assembly detachably coupled to a front surface of the case, wherein the grille assembly includes: a first grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the heat exchange space;a second grille plate coupled to the front surface of the case corresponding to a front of the electric space; anda grille cover coupled to cover an upper portion of the first grille plate and an upper portion of the second grille plate, wherein an insertion groove is formed at a front end portion of each of the first grille plate and the second grille plate, and wherein an insertion portion is formed in the grille cover, which extends rearward from a lower end of a front surface portion thereof and is coupled to the insertion grooves.

20. The outdoor unit of an air conditioner of claim 19, wherein the case includes: a base panel;a first front panel disposed on a front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the heat exchange space; anda second front panel disposed on the front end portion of the base panel and forming a front surface of the electric space, wherein the first grille plate is configured to cover a front surface of the first front panel, and wherein the second grille plate is configured to cover a front surface of the second front panel.