Indoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

The invention provides an indoor unit of an air conditioner. The indoor unit includes: a housing accommodating a heat exchanger; a blower fan assembly disposed in front of the housing, at least a portion of the blower fan assembly being opened and closed by rotation, the blower fan assembly being provided with a blower fan for flowing air therein, and the blower fan assembly having a discharge port through which the air passing through the heat exchanger is discharged; a lower housing provided at the lower part of the housing and forming a space of a machine chamber; the panel assembly is detachably arranged on the lower shell, shields the machine chamber and forms the front appearance of the indoor unit; the panel assembly is combined with the air supply fan assembly after being separated from the lower shell in the open state of the air supply fan assembly. The panel assembly is connected between the air supply fan assembly and the ground to support the air supply fan assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an indoor unit of an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an indoor unit of a vertical air conditioner. Background Art

[0002] Typically, an air conditioner has an air outlet formed at the front, an air conditioning unit such as a heat exchanger or filter that can change the temperature, humidity, or cleanliness of the air, and an air supply device that allows the air to flow.

[0003] Air conditioners used in homes are mainly split-type air conditioners, in which an indoor heat exchanger and an indoor blower are installed in the indoor unit, and an outdoor heat exchanger, an outdoor blower, a compressor, etc. are installed in the outdoor unit. The indoor and outdoor units are separated from each other and connected by refrigerant piping. Split air conditioners are divided into wall-mounted and upright types according to the shape of the indoor unit.

[0004] The upright air conditioner may include a fan for generating airflow and a shroud provided on a suction side of the fan and guiding suction of air. The shroud may include a suction opening portion for sucking air in an axial direction of the fan.

[0005] In the case of conventional air conditioners, when a fan is driven to generate flow, the flow around the fan becomes unstable, causing noise and increasing power consumption.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Korean Patent Gazette No. 10-1403003 (May 27, 2014) Summary of the Invention

[0009] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner that prevents an air supply fan assembly from falling over when the air supply fan assembly is opened.

[0010] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner capable of supporting an air supply fan assembly in an open state using a panel assembly.

[0011] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner in which the interior of an air supply fan assembly is opened in a safe state for easy cleaning and management.

[0012] In the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air supply fan assembly is arranged in front of the shell and can be opened and closed by rotation. When the air supply fan assembly is opened, the air supply fan assembly can be supported on the ground by separating the panel assembly shielding the machine room.

[0013] In the indoor unit of the air conditioner in an embodiment of the present invention, the air supply fan module part can rotate based on the protective cover shell. When the air supply fan module part rotates, the air supply fan module part and the protective cover are exposed. The rotating air supply fan module part can be supported by a panel assembly separated from the shell.

[0014] According to one aspect, the indoor unit of the air conditioner of an embodiment of the present invention may include: a shell that accommodates a heat exchanger; an air supply fan assembly that is arranged in front of the shell, at least a part of the air supply fan assembly is opened and closed by rotation, and an air supply fan for making air flow is provided inside the air supply fan assembly, and an outlet for discharging air that passes through the heat exchanger is formed in the air supply fan assembly; a lower shell that is provided at the lower part of the shell to form a space for a mechanical room; and a panel assembly that is detachably provided on the lower shell to shield the mechanical room and form the front appearance of the indoor unit; the panel assembly is separated from the lower shell when the air supply fan assembly is open and is combined with the air supply fan assembly; the panel assembly is connected between the air supply fan assembly and the ground to support the air supply fan assembly.

[0015] The air supply fan assembly may include a locking member that is moved by a user's operation and selectively coupled to the panel assembly.

[0016] A locking member mounting portion is formed on the air supply fan assembly and is opened downward to accommodate the locking member. The locking member can be moved to a first position accommodated in the locking member mounting portion and a second position protruding toward the outside of the locking member mounting portion to be combined with the panel assembly under the operation of the user.

[0017] The locking member includes a side portion extending in the up-down direction and a connecting portion connecting upper ends of a pair of the side portions spaced apart from each other. The locking member can move downward toward a second position to be combined with the panel assembly.

[0018] The locking member mounting portion may include a mounting portion back surface exposed when the air supply fan assembly is opened, and the connecting portion may include a handle protruding rearward for user operation, and the handle may protrude through a back opening formed on the back surface of the mounting portion.

[0019] A cut portion in which a part of the side surface is cut and can be elastically deformed and a limiting protrusion protruding from one side of the cut portion are formed on the side surface of the side portion, and a limiting groove that is locked and restricted by the limiting protrusion is formed on the side surface of the locking member mounting portion. The limiting groove may include: an upper limiting groove, when the locking member is in the first position, the limiting protrusion is inserted into the upper limiting groove; and a lower limiting groove, when the locking member is in the second position, the limiting protrusion is inserted into the lower limiting groove.

[0020] A guide groove extending along the moving direction of the side portion may be formed on the side portion, and a guide portion may be protrudingly formed on the locking member mounting portion. The guide portion is inserted into the guide groove and moves along the guide groove. When the locking member is in the first position, the lower end of the guide portion is connected to the lower end of the guide groove. When the locking member is in the second position, the upper end of the guide portion is connected to the upper end of the guide groove.

[0021] The panel assembly may include: a plate-shaped panel forming an appearance of the indoor unit; and a fixing member provided on an upper portion of the panel and combined with the locking member.

[0022] The fixing member may be formed with a fixing hole penetrating the fixing member at a position facing the side portion; when the locking member moves downward, the side portion is inserted into the fixing hole.

[0023] A panel coupling portion may be formed at the lower end of the air supply fan assembly, and a panel fixing portion coupled to the panel coupling portion may be formed on the panel. When the panel fixing portion is coupled to the panel coupling portion to install the panel assembly, the side portion and the fixing hole may be aligned with each other.

[0024] Panel support parts supported on both side ends of the lower shell are formed on both sides of the back of the panel, and a plurality of panel support parts are arranged spaced apart in the up and down directions. The fixing member can connect the panel support parts located at the top of the plurality of panel support parts.

[0025] The panel assembly may further include a support member that protrudes downward from the panel and contacts the ground under the operation of a user.

[0026] A pad in contact with the ground is provided on the bottom surface of the support member, and the pad may be formed of a compressible material.

[0027] The support member may include: an extension portion, extending to the lower end of the panel and connected to left and right side shafts; and a support portion, extending forward from the lower end of the extension portion and connected to the ground; when the panel assembly is installed on the lower shell, the support member rotates so that the support portion faces upward; when the panel assembly supports the air supply fan assembly, the support member rotates so that the support portion faces downward.

[0028] A support protrusion may be formed on the support portion, and when the support member is rotated, the support protrusion is locked and restricted with the lower end of the panel.

[0029] Panel support parts supported on both side ends of the lower shell are formed on both sides of the back of the panel, and a plurality of panel support parts are arranged spaced apart in the up and down directions. The supporting member can be rotatably combined with the panel support part located at the bottom of the plurality of panel support parts.

[0030] The panel assembly may be formed to have a vertical length corresponding to a distance between a lower end of the air supply fan assembly and the ground.

[0031] The air supply fan assembly includes: an air supply module part, which is arranged on the outlet side of the heat exchanger and includes an air supply fan that sucks air that passes through the heat exchanger; and a shield shell, which is arranged on the suction side of the air supply fan and forms an suction opening part for guiding air to the air supply fan; an upper hinge and a lower hinge connected to the shield shell are provided at the upper and lower parts of the air supply module part, and the air supply module part can be rotated with the shield shell as a reference to be exposed.

[0032] The housing may include a main body rear housing that accommodates the heat exchanger and forms a portion of a rear surface and left and right sides of the indoor unit. The shield housing may be mounted on a front surface of an opening of the main body rear housing.

[0033] A panel coupling portion coupled to the upper portion of the panel assembly is formed on the air supply fan assembly, a magnet is provided on the panel coupling portion, and an upper attachment portion of a metal material attached to the magnet is formed on the back of the panel assembly so that the panel assembly can be loaded and unloaded under the action of magnetic force.

[0034] The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0035] In the embodiment of the present invention, when the air supply fan assembly including the air supply fan module is opened by rotation, the panel assembly is connected between the air supply fan assembly and the ground, thereby preventing the indoor unit from falling over.

[0036] In particular, even when the center of gravity of the blower fan assembly moves forward when it is opened due to the configuration of multiple components including the blower fan and the motor, the panel assembly can be used to support the blower fan assembly from below, effectively preventing the indoor unit from falling over.

[0037] In addition, the panel assembly is configured to shield the machine room and is easy to install and remove, so it can be easily selected and combined with the lower shell and the air supply fan assembly when necessary, thereby improving ease of use.

[0038] In addition, the air supply fan assembly can be easily and completely opened by the support of the panel assembly, and when the air supply fan assembly is opened, the air supply fan module part and the shield shell are exposed, which has the advantage of being very easy to clean and maintain. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 It is a front perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 It is a rear perspective view of the indoor unit.

[0041] Figure 3 It is a front perspective view of the indoor unit with its side door open.

[0042] Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view of the indoor unit.

[0043] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 Cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5.

[0044] Figure 6 It is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the air supply module portion of the indoor unit is opened relative to the shroud casing.

[0045] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the air supply module portion of the indoor unit as viewed from the front.

[0046] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A partial exploded perspective view.

[0047] Figure 9 It is a partial front view showing the structure of the locking member of the indoor unit.

[0048] Figure 10 It is a partial perspective view of the panel assembly separated from the lower casing of the indoor unit.

[0049] Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the panel assembly.

[0050] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly.

[0051] Figure 13 It is a perspective view showing a state in which a support member of the panel assembly is rotated.

[0052] Figure 14 It is along Figure 13 A cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14.

[0053] Figure 15 It is along Figure 1A cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15.

[0054] Figure 16 It is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the locking member moves upward when the panel assembly and the blower fan assembly are coupled.

[0055] Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A three-dimensional image taken along line 17-17.

[0056] Figure 18 It is shown in Figure 16 A partial three-dimensional view of the state in which the locking member moves downward in the state.

[0057] Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 A three-dimensional image taken along line 19-19.

[0058] Figure 20 The figures sequentially illustrate the supporting operation of the blower fan assembly using the panel assembly.

[0059] Figure 21 This is a partial perspective view of an air supply fan assembly of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a second embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from below.

[0060] Figure 22 It is a partial perspective view showing a state in which a locking member of the indoor unit is rotated.

[0061] Figure 23 It is a partial perspective view showing a state where the panel assembly is installed in a state where the air supply fan assembly is opened.

[0062] Figure 24 It is along Figure 23 A three-dimensional image taken along line 24-24.

[0063] Figure 25 This is a partial perspective view of an air supply fan assembly of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a third embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from below.

[0064] Figure 26 It is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the air supply fan assembly is supported by a locking member in an open state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] The following description merely illustrates the principles of the present invention. Therefore, even without explicit description or illustration in this specification, one of ordinary skill in the art can implement the principles of the present invention and invent various devices encompassed within the concept and scope of the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that all conditional terms and embodiments listed in this specification are provided solely for the purpose of understanding the concept of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the specifically listed embodiments and conditions.

[0066] In addition, it should be understood that all detailed descriptions of the principles, viewpoints, embodiments, and specific embodiments of the present invention are intended to include structural and functional equivalents of such matters. In addition, it should be understood that such equivalents include not only currently known equivalents, but also equivalents developed in the future, that is, all devices invented to perform the same function regardless of structure.

[0067] Within the scope of the claims of this specification, constituent elements expressed as means for performing the functions described in detail are intended to include all methods of performing the functions. It should be understood that the present invention defined by such claim scope is combined with the functions provided by variously listed means and in the manner required by the claims, so any means that can provide the functions are equivalent to the means grasped from this specification.

[0068] The above-mentioned objects, features and advantages will be more clearly understood through the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the technical concepts of the present invention. In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a known technology related to the present invention unnecessarily obscures the main purpose of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0069] The suffixes "module" and "unit" of the components used in the following description are given only for the convenience of writing this specification, and the "module" and "unit" may be used interchangeably.

[0070] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings for illustrating indoor units of air conditioners according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 1 1 is a front perspective view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 : is a rear perspective view of the indoor unit. Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of the indoor unit with its side door open. Figure 4 : is an exploded perspective view of the indoor unit. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 Cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5.

[0072] First, refer to Figures 1 to 5, describes the overall structure of the components constituting the indoor unit of an embodiment of the present invention, and describes the structure of each component.

[0073] [Define Direction]

[0074] The indoor unit 1 of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention can be configured to draw air in through the intake port 1210, and the drawn air can undergo heat exchange while passing through the heat exchanger 3100. The air heat-exchanged in the heat exchanger 3100 can be discharged through the discharge port 2111 after passing through the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0075] The direction in which the air drawn in from the air inlet 1210 flows toward the heat exchanger 3100 and the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 can be defined as "forward." In this case, it can be understood that the air flows forward from the air inlet 1210 toward the heat exchanger 3100, and also flows forward from the heat exchanger 3100 toward the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0076] On the contrary, the direction from the air supply fans 212 , 222 , 232 through the heat exchanger 3100 toward the suction port 1210 may be defined as “rearward”.

[0077] The direction of air passing through the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 toward the outlet 2111 can be defined as "lateral." When there are multiple outlets 2111, it can be understood that any one of the multiple outlets 2111 is located on "one side" or "the left side" of the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232, while another outlet 2111 can be located on "the other side" or "the right side" of the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0078] The indoor unit 1 can include a flow generating unit, which forms a space for accommodating the heat exchanger 3100 and the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232; and a machinery compartment 5102, which houses a control box 5170 and drainage piping for operating the indoor unit 1. The direction in which the flow generating unit and the machinery compartment 5102 are arranged can be defined as a vertical direction. Specifically, the flow generating unit can be located above the machinery compartment 5102, while the machinery compartment 5102 can be located below the flow generating unit.

[0079] From another perspective, the air supply fans are provided in plurality, and the direction in which the air supply fans 212 , 222 , and 232 are arranged can be defined as an up-down direction.

[0080] [Overall structure of the indoor unit]

[0081] The indoor unit 1 of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing assembly 1000, which defines a front and rear exterior; a blower fan assembly 2000, disposed inside the housing assembly 1000, to create air flow; a heat exchange assembly 3000, which exchanges heat between the air flowing through the blower fan assembly 2000 and the refrigerant; and a lower housing 5000, disposed below the housing assembly 1000 and defining a space within a machine room. The lower housing 5000 may be disposed below the blower fan assembly 2000. The indoor unit 1 may further include a filter assembly 4000, which filters air flowing into the housing assembly 1000.

[0082] [Case assembly]

[0083] The housing assembly 1000 of the embodiment of the present invention includes a main body rear housing 1200 having an air inlet 1210 formed therein and a mounting space formed therein for the heat exchange assembly 3000 including the heat exchanger 3100. The main body rear housing 1200 forms the upper rear exterior of the indoor unit 1.

[0084] From the perspective of accommodating the heat exchange assembly 3000 therein, the main body rear housing 1200 may be referred to as a heat exchanger housing or housing.

[0085] The housing assembly 1000 includes a main body front housing 1100 disposed in front of the main body rear housing 1200 and forming the upper front appearance. In other words, in addition to the air supply fan assembly 2000, the main components such as the heat exchange assembly 3000 and the filter assembly 4000 can be disposed inside the housing assembly 1000.

[0086] The main body front housing 1100 and the main body rear housing 1200 may be referred to as upper housings. For ease of description, the main body rear housing 1200 may also be referred to as a first housing, and the main body front housing 1100 may be referred to as a second housing.

[0087] In addition, the housing assembly 1000 includes a lower housing 5000 that is disposed below the upper housings 1100 and 1200 and has a space forming a machine room therein.

[0088] The main body rear housing 1200 of the upper housings 1100 and 1200 is formed with an air inlet 1210 for drawing in air from the room in which the indoor unit 1 is installed. The air inlet 1210 may be formed on the back of the main body rear housing 1200. When the air supply assembly 2000 is driven to cause air to flow, indoor air is drawn into the air inlet 1210. The drawn air passes through the heat exchanger 3100 of the heat exchange assembly 3000, which is arranged on the inlet side of the air supply assembly 2000, and flows into the air supply module 2100 of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0089] The main front housing 1100 includes a display unit 1110 for displaying the operating status of the indoor unit or inputting user commands. Considering the user's sight line, the display unit 1110 of the embodiment of the present invention can be arranged at the height of the user's eyes.

[0090] A space is formed inside the upper housings 1100 and 1200 for arranging the air-supply fan assembly 2000 , the heat exchange assembly 3000 , and the filter assembly 4000 .

[0091] The air supply fan assembly 2000 of the embodiment of the present invention may be disposed behind the main body front housing 1100 , and the heat exchange assembly 3000 may be disposed in front of the main body rear housing 1200 .

[0092] The air supply fan assembly 2000 may include a top cover 2140 disposed on the upper side of the air supply module 2100. The top cover 2140 may define the top surface appearance of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The top cover 2140 may be detachably coupled to the upper side of the air supply module 2100. The top cover 2140 may be configured to cover the open top surface of the air supply module 2100. The specific structure of the air supply fan assembly 2000 will be described later.

[0093] In addition, side door assemblies 2130 for opening and closing the side outlets 2111 may be provided on both sides of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The side door assemblies may also form two side surfaces of the housing assembly when closed.

[0094] The side door assembly 2130 includes: left and right side doors 2121, which open and close the side outlet 2111 while moving in the front-to-back direction; and a support frame 2124, which is formed with a guide hole 2125 so that it can be combined with the side door 2121 and guide the front-to-back movement of the side door 2121.

[0095] The side door assembly 2130 is tilted forward, directing air discharged from the housing assembly 1000 forward. Therefore, air discharged through the side outlet 2111 is redirected by the side vane module 2200 to form a forward-directed airflow. The forward-directed airflow can be defined as airflow discharged at an effective discharge angle of a predetermined angle relative to the front.

[0096] The side blade module 2200 is a blade that changes the direction of the forward-pointing airflow discharged through the side outlet 2111 , and is disposed in front of the air-supply fan assembly 2000 .

[0097] The side blade module 2200 may include a side blade housing 2210 and a side blade 2220. The side blade 2220 may be configured to change the direction of the forward-directed airflow by being disposed adjacent to the front side of the side outlet 2111.

[0098] The side blades 2220 are kept hidden between the main body front housing 1100 and the air supply fan assembly 2000, and can be called hidden blades. Therefore, the side blades 2220 will not affect the air flow of the air exhaled through the side outlet 2111, and the exhaled air can keep pointing forward.

[0099] [Heat exchange component]

[0100] The heat exchange assembly 3000 can perform heat exchange between the indoor air drawn into the upper casings 1100 and 1200 and the refrigerant.

[0101] The heat exchange assembly 3000 may include a heat exchanger 3100 through which refrigerant, which exchanges heat with indoor air, flows, and a refrigerant pipe 3200 forming a refrigerant flow path for allowing the refrigerant to flow into or be discharged from the heat exchanger 3100. The refrigerant pipe 3200 may be led to the outside through a refrigerant pipe hole 5401 formed in the back side portion 5400 of the base of the lower housing 5000.

[0102] The heat exchanger 3100 is disposed behind the air-sending fan assembly 2000. The heat exchanger 3100 is disposed between the air inlet 1210 and the side outlet 2111 and can perform heat exchange with the air flowing inside the indoor unit.

[0103] The heat exchanger 3100 has a vertically extending rectangular parallelepiped shape and can be formed to face the shroud housing 2300. The heat exchanger 3100 is disposed between the filter assembly 4000 and the air supply fan assembly 2000. The heat exchanger 3100 can have a length corresponding to the height of the plurality of air supply modules 2100 arranged vertically.

[0104] The heat exchanger 3100 may be disposed inside the main body rear case 1200 .

[0105] The main body rear housing 1200 may have the shape of a cover with an opening at the front. The main body rear housing 1200 may include a rear portion 1201 forming the suction port 1210, a first side portion 1202, and a second side portion 1203 forming two side surfaces. The main body rear housing 1200 may include a top portion 1204 forming the top surface.

[0106] The heat exchanger 3100 may be disposed in a space defined by the back surface portion 1201 , the first side surface portion 1202 , the second side surface portion 1203 , and the top surface portion 1204 .

[0107] [Filter components]

[0108] The filter assembly 4000 can remove foreign matter contained in the air flowing toward the air inlet 1210. The filter assembly 4000 can be detachably mounted behind the main body rear housing 1200. The filter assembly 4000 is disposed at the air inlet 1210 formed at the rear of the main body rear housing 1200 and can filter the indoor air flowing into the air inlet 1210.

[0109] The filter assembly 4000 includes a filter module 4100 for removing foreign matter from the air sucked into the suction port 1210 . The filter module 4100 of the filter assembly 4000 is disposed at the suction port 1210 .

[0110] The filter module 4100 may include a first filter module 4110 covering the left side of the suction port 1210 of the main body rear housing 1200 , and a second filter module 4120 covering the right side of the suction port 1210 of the main body rear housing 1200 .

[0111] The filter module 4100 may include a filter housing 4200 for mounting a pre-filter. A plurality of suction ports 1210 are formed in the filter housing 4200 in the direction of mounting the pre-filter. The surface of the filter housing 4200 where the pre-filter is mounted may include vertical ribs 4220 and horizontal ribs 4230.

[0112] [Lower housing]

[0113] The lower casing 5000 is disposed below the upper casings 1100 and 1200 , is supported on the floor on which the indoor unit is installed, and supports the upper casings 1100 and 1200 .

[0114] The lower housing 5000 includes a control box 5170, inside which are mounted control components for operating the air conditioner, and a lower housing body 5100, which defines a space for piping, such as a drain pipe, for condensed water generated by the heat exchanger 3100. The control box can be centrally located inside the lower housing body 5100 and supported by the lower housing body 5100. The lower housing body 5100 can have a box shape with an open front.

[0115] Specifically, the lower housing body 5100 may include a machine room 5102. The lower housing body 5100 may be disposed on the lower side of the main rear housing 1200.

[0116] The lower housing body 5100 may include a base 5110 placed on the ground and two side surfaces 5120 protruding upward from both sides of the base 5110 .

[0117] The machine room 5102, which is an internal space defined by the base 5110 and the two side surfaces 5120, can be equipped with refrigerant pipes 3200, drain pipes, and a control box 5170. Furthermore, the machine room 5102 can be provided with additional components forming an inner surface, and at least a portion of the space in the machine room 5102 can be used as a decorative cabinet or storage space.

[0118] The lower housing 5000 may further include a panel assembly 5300. This panel assembly 5300 may be installed to shield the front of the opening of the lower housing body 5100. Furthermore, the panel assembly 5300 may shield the front or sides of the opening of the lower housing body 5100. When installed in the lower housing 5000, the panel assembly 5300 may form a portion of the lower exterior of the indoor unit 1.

[0119] The lower housing 5000 includes a base back portion 5400 that forms the rear appearance of the lower portion of the indoor unit 1. The base back portion 5400 can cover the side and rear of the lower housing 5000 and form a part of the lower appearance of the indoor unit 1.

[0120] The base back portion 5400 may be formed with a refrigerant pipe hole 5401 through which the refrigerant pipe 3200 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 passes, and a drain pipe hole 5402 through which a drain pipe for draining condensed water generated from the heat exchanger 3100 passes. The refrigerant pipe hole 5401 and the drain pipe hole 5402 may be in communication with the lower housing body 5100.

[0121] [Air supply fan assembly]

[0122] Figure 6This is a partial perspective view showing the situation where the air supply module of the indoor unit is open relative to the shield housing. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the air supply module portion of the indoor unit as viewed from the front.

[0123] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The air supply fan assembly 2000 is arranged at the rear of the main body front shell 1100. In addition, the air supply fan assembly 2000 is arranged at the front of the main body rear shell 1200.

[0124] The air supply fan assembly 2000 includes an air supply module 2100 that discharges air toward the front of the indoor unit 1. Preferably, a plurality of air supply modules 2100 are provided. In the embodiment of the present invention, three air supply modules 2100 are provided. Because the indoor unit 1 is vertically elongated, the air supply modules 2100 can be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0125] The air supply module 2100 may include an air supply module cover 2101 that forms the overall appearance of the air supply module 2100. The air supply module cover 2101 may be formed in a frame shape with a hollow interior. A plurality of components constituting the air supply module 2100 may be mounted within the air supply module cover 2101. As an example, the air supply module cover 2101 may be formed in a quadrilateral frame shape that is long in the vertical direction.

[0126] The air supply module cover 2101 may include: a pair of discharge parts 2110 , respectively placed vertically on both sides; and a connecting part 2120 connecting the pair of discharge parts 2110 .

[0127] A pair of discharge portions 2110 can form two side surfaces of the air supply module cover 2101. A side door assembly 2130 can be incorporated into each of the pair of discharge portions 2110. Each of the pair of discharge portions 2110 can be formed into a rectangular panel shape that is long in the vertical direction. The pair of discharge portions 2110 can be arranged tilted forward. For example, to improve air flow performance, the pair of discharge portions 2110 can be arranged tilted forward toward each other.

[0128] The discharge portion 2110 may include a side discharge port 2111 for discharging the air sucked into the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 to the outside. The side discharge port 2111 may be formed by vertically splitting at least a portion of the discharge portion 2110.

[0129] A discharge grille 2112 for forming a flow of discharged air may be formed in the discharge portion 2110. The discharge grille 2112 may have a plurality of ribs arranged in a lattice shape inside the side discharge port 2111.

[0130] The air supply module 2100 is positioned in front of the heat exchange assembly 3000 and allows the air heat exchanged in the heat exchange assembly 3000 to be discharged toward the side outlet 2111 formed in the outlet portion 2110. The flowing air can be redirected by the side vane module 2200 positioned at the side outlet 2111. The side outlet 2111 can be provided with an outlet grille 2112.

[0131] The air supply module portion 2100 of the embodiment of the present invention may include a first air supply module 210 , a second air supply module 220 and a third air supply module 230 .

[0132] The first air supply module 210 can blow air toward the side outlet 2111. The first air supply module 210 includes a first air supply motor 211 that provides rotational power; a first air supply fan 212 connected to the first air supply motor 211; and a first air supply housing 213 that rotatably supports the first air supply fan 212 and is disposed outside the first air supply fan 212 to guide the movement of air.

[0133] The air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 can move into the inside of the first air supply housing 213. In addition, the air discharged to the outside of the first air supply housing 213 by the operation of the first air supply fan 212 can flow to the side discharge port 2111 and be discharged to the outside.

[0134] The second air supply module 220 includes a second air supply motor 221 that provides rotational power; a second air supply fan 222 connected to the second air supply motor 221; and a second air supply housing 223 that rotatably supports the second air supply fan 222 and is disposed outside the second air supply fan 222 to guide the movement of air. The structure of the second air supply module 220 can be the same as that of the first air supply module 210.

[0135] Another portion of the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 moves toward the inside of the second air supply housing 223. In addition, the air discharged toward the outside of the second air supply housing 223 by the operation of the second air supply fan 222 can flow toward the side discharge port 2111 and be discharged to the outside.

[0136] The third air supply module 230, located below the second air supply module 220, blows air toward the side outlet 2111. The third air supply module 230 includes a third air supply motor 231, which provides rotational power; a third air supply fan 232, connected to the third air supply motor 231; and a third air supply housing 233, which rotatably supports the third air supply fan 232 and is located outside the third air supply fan 232 to guide the movement of air. The structure of the third air supply module 230 can be the same as that of the first air supply module 210.

[0137] Another portion of the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 moves toward the inside of the third air supply housing 233. In addition, the air discharged toward the outside of the third air supply housing 233 by the operation of the third air supply fan 232 can flow toward the side discharge port 2111 and be discharged to the outside.

[0138] Here, the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 may be centrifugal fans that allow air to flow in the axial direction and discharge it radially through the side discharge ports 2111. The centrifugal fans may have mechanical characteristics of a large air volume and high static pressure performance.

[0139] The air supply module 2100 may only include the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220, and various modifications may be implemented as needed, such as further including an air supply module below the third air supply module 230. Furthermore, the air supply module 2100 may also consist of only one air supply module as needed.

[0140] The air supply module 2100 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a partition wall portion 214 including a first partition wall 214 a , a second partition wall 214 b , and a third partition wall 214 c .

[0141] The first partition wall 214a may be formed to separate the first air supply module 210 from the second air supply module 220. The first partition wall 214a may be disposed horizontally between the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220. The first partition wall 214a may be connected to the first corresponding partition wall 215a of the corresponding shield housing 2300 so that the flowing air can be trapped within the first air supply module 210.

[0142] Therefore, the air discharged from the first air supply module 210 is blocked from moving to the second air supply module 220, and the air from the second air supply module 220 to the first air supply module 210 is blocked, so that the air supply actions of the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220 can be achieved independently.

[0143] The second partition wall 214b may be formed to separate the second air supply module 220 from the third air supply module 230. The second partition wall 214b may be disposed horizontally between the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230. The second partition wall 214b may be connected to the second corresponding partition wall 215b of the corresponding shield housing 2300 so that the flowing air can be trapped within the second air supply module 220.

[0144] Therefore, the air discharged from the second air supply module 220 is blocked from moving to the third air supply module 230, and the air discharged from the third air supply module 230 is blocked from moving to the second air supply module 220, so that the air supply actions of the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230 can be achieved independently.

[0145] The third partition wall 214c may be formed on the lower side of the third air supply module 230. The third partition wall 214c may be arranged in a horizontal direction. The third partition wall 214c may be connected to the third corresponding partition wall 215c of the corresponding shield housing 2300, so that the flowing air can be trapped in the third air supply module 230.

[0146] Therefore, the air discharged from the third air supply module 230 is blocked from moving toward the lower side of the third air supply module 230, so that the air supply operation of the third air supply module 230 can be independently achieved.

[0147] Such partition wall portions 214 and corresponding partition wall portions 215 may be determined according to the number of air supply module portions 2100 .

[0148] The heat exchange assembly 3000 may include a shroud housing 2300 located in front of the heat exchanger 3100 to guide air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 toward the air supply module 2100. The shroud housing 2300 is disposed between the outlet of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet of the air supply module 2100. Furthermore, the shroud housing 2300 may be coupled to the main body rear housing 1200. Furthermore, the shroud housing 2300 may be separated from the air supply module 2100 when the air supply module 2100 is open, forming the front surface of the main body rear housing 1200 and thereby becoming a component of the main body rear housing 1200.

[0149] The shield housing 2300 of the embodiment of the present invention has the function of sucking the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 along the axial direction of the fan.

[0150] The outlet side of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet side of the air supply module 2100 are connected via the hood casing 2300 , so that the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 can stably move to the air supply module 2100 .

[0151] At this time, the air that has passed through the heat exchanger 3100 moves along the curved hood casing 2300 , thereby reducing flow separation of the air that moves from the heat exchanger 3100 to the inlet side of the air supply module 2100 .

[0152] Furthermore, since the shield housing 2300 is disposed between the outlet side of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet side of the air supply module 2100, pressure loss of the blowing airflow can be prevented. Furthermore, the generation of vortices caused by flow separation of the blowing airflow inside the upper housings 1100 and 1200 is reduced, thereby reducing flow noise.

[0153] To this end, the shield housing 2300 may include a housing body 2310 and an intake guide 2320 disposed on the housing body 2310, forming intake openings 2321a, 2322a, and 2323a. For example, the housing body 2310 may have a quadrilateral shape, and the intake openings 2321a, 2322a, and 2323a may have a circular shape. The intake guide 2320 provides a suction-side passage for the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232, and therefore may also be referred to as an "orifice."

[0154] The width of the housing body 2310 may be slightly larger than the width of the heat exchanger 3100 so as to cover the entire heat exchanger 3100 , so that the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 can smoothly flow into the air supply module 2100 .

[0155] The shield housing 2300 is provided between the heat exchanger 3100 and the air supply module 2100 , and forms a guide flow path for guiding the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 to the inlet side of the air supply module 2100 .

[0156] The housing body 2310 may include a plate portion 2330 that forms the periphery of the suction guide portion 2320. The plate portion 2330 may have a flat plate shape that connects the suction guide portion 2320 and the corners of the housing body 2310. The plate portion 2330 is connected to the suction guide portion 2320 and is arranged facing the air supply module 2100.

[0157] The intake guide 2320 can be configured to guide air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 toward the air supply module 2100. A plurality of intake guides 2320 are formed corresponding to the air supply modules 2100, and can be arranged vertically, for example. Each intake guide 2320 can be connected to the rear side of the first air supply housing 213, the second air supply housing 223, and the third air supply housing 233, so that air passing through the intake guide 2320 can be transferred to the interior of the air supply fan assembly 2000 without leakage.

[0158] The suction guide 2320 may include a first suction guide 2321, a second suction guide 2322, and a third suction guide 2323. The first suction guide 2321 may be movably connected to the first air supply module 210, the second suction guide 2322 may be movably connected to the second air supply module 220, and the third suction guide 2323 may be movably connected to the third air supply module 230.

[0159] The first suction guide 2321 , the second suction guide 2322 , and the third suction guide 2323 may form circular outlets, but various modifications are possible.

[0160] Plate portion 2330 includes a corresponding partition wall portion 215 that faces and connects to partition wall portion 214 of air supply module portion 2100. Corresponding partition wall portion 215 includes a first corresponding partition wall 215a, a second corresponding partition wall 215b, and a third corresponding partition wall 215c. The first, second, and third suction guide portions 2321, 2322, and 2323 are separated and formed by corresponding partition walls 215. This prevents air from moving between first, second, and third suction guide portions 2321, 2322, and 2323, enabling independent air supply operations.

[0161] The air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300 may form a space for accommodating the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232. The air supply module 2100 may rotate relative to the shield housing 2300 via the hinge 2430 to be opened and closed in the front-rear direction.

[0162] The air supply fan assembly 2000 can be rotated and opened from the main body rear housing 1200. Specifically, when the air supply module 2100 is opened at a predetermined angle from the shield housing 2300, the air supply housings 213, 223, 233 and the air supply fans 212, 222, 232 of the air supply module 2100 can be opened to the outside. Simultaneously, the front side of the shield housing 2300 facing the air supply module 2100 can be opened to the outside. This allows the user to clean dust and other foreign matter trapped in the separated air supply module 2100 and shield housing 2300.

[0163] When the air supply module 2100 is closed by the shroud housing 2300, a seal must be achieved to prevent air leakage. Specifically, the partition wall 214 of the air supply module 2100 may include a contact surface 2143 that contacts the corresponding partition wall 215 of the shroud housing 2300 when the air supply module 2100 is closed by the shroud housing 2300. The contact surface 2143 may be formed on the back side of the partition wall 214.

[0164] The partition wall portion 214 may include a first protruding rib 2141 and a second protruding rib 2142. The first protruding rib 2141 and the second protruding rib 2142 may protrude rearward from both ends of the partition wall portion 214. As an example, the first protruding rib 2141 may be provided at the lower end of the partition wall portion 214, and the second protruding rib 2142 may be provided at the upper end of the partition wall portion 214. A contact surface 2143 may be formed between the first protruding rib 2141 and the second protruding rib 2142. The first protruding rib 2141, the second protruding rib 2142, and the contact surface 2143 may be provided in each of the first partition wall 214a, the second partition wall 214b, and the third partition wall 214c.

[0165] The upper side of the first air supply module 210 may include a first guide wall 250. The first guide wall 250 may be provided to protrude rearward from the first air supply housing 213 and to be connected to the upper portion of the shield housing 2300.

[0166] The first guide wall 250 has a substantially similar structure to the first partition wall 214a, the second partition wall 214b, and the third partition wall 214c, and can be considered a component of the partition wall portion 214. For ease of description, the first guide wall 250 may be referred to as the "fourth partition wall." A first protruding rib 2141 may be provided at the lower end of the first guide wall 250.

[0167] An air treatment device 260 for treating air passing through the air supply module may be installed on at least one of the first partition wall 214a, the second partition wall 214b, the third partition wall 214c, and the first guide wall 250. As an example, the air treatment device 260 may be installed on the first partition wall 214a, the second partition wall 214b, and the first guide wall 250.

[0168] The air treatment device 260 may include a sterilization device for sterilizing the air. As an example, the sterilization device may include an ultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet rays or an ion generating device.

[0169] As another example, the air processing device 260 may be a sensor device provided on any one of the first partition wall and the second partition wall on both sides of the air supply fans 212 , 222 , and 232 to detect the temperature or humidity of the air.

[0170] The shield housing 2300 may be formed with a placement slot 265 for accommodating the air treatment device 260. The placement slot 265 may be provided at a position where the air treatment device 260 can be inserted when the air supply module 2100 is closed by the shield housing 2300.

[0171] The shield housing 2300 may include a protrusion 2151 configured to contact the contact surface 2143 of the air supply module 2100. The protrusion 2151 is provided on the first corresponding partition wall 215a, the second corresponding partition wall 215b, the third corresponding partition wall 215c, and the second guide wall 255. Specifically, the protrusion 2151 may protrude forward from the front of the first corresponding partition wall 215a, the second corresponding partition wall 215b, the third corresponding partition wall 215c, and the second guide wall 255.

[0172] The second guide wall 255 serves as an upper side wall of the shield housing 2300 and may be disposed in contact with the first guide wall 250 .

[0173] When the air supply module 2100 is closed by the shield housing 2300, the protrusion 2151 can be arranged between the first protruding rib 2141 and the second protruding rib 2142 and in contact with the contact surface 2143. This connection structure (contact structure) can improve the sealing effect between the air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300.

[0174] According to an embodiment of the present invention, to clean the air blower fans 212, 222, and 232, the main body front housing 1100 and the air blower fan assembly 2000 are rotated from the housing assembly 1000 to open and close the air blower module 2100. Specifically, the air blower module 2100 is opened by rotating about the hinge 2430 connecting the air blower module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300 of the air blower fan assembly 2000.

[0175] When the air supply fan assembly 2000 is opened at a predetermined angle from the main body rear shell 1200 , the air supply fans 212 , 222 , 232 of the air supply module 2100 can be opened to the outside, and the front of the shield shell 2300 facing the air supply module 2100 can be opened to the outside.

[0176] Therefore, the user can clean foreign matter such as dust trapped in the separated air supply module part 2100 and the shield housing 2300. In addition, the user can maintain the air supply module part 2100.

[0177] For example, the air supply module 2100 can be rotated relative to the shroud housing 2300 via a hinge 2430, thereby being opened and closed in the front-to-back direction. The hinge 2430 includes an upper hinge 2431 and a lower hinge 2432. Here, the upper hinge 2431 is located above the air supply fan assembly 2000 and the shroud housing 2300, while the lower hinge 2432 is located below the air supply fan assembly 2000 and the shroud housing 2300.

[0178] Therefore, the main body front housing 1100 and the air supply module 2100 are rotatably connected to the shield housing 2300 via the upper hinge 2431 and the lower hinge 2432. Each end of the upper hinge 2431 and the lower hinge 2432 is bent to extend in a direction of approximately 90 degrees. The curved shape of the upper hinge 2431 and the lower hinge 2432 can limit the opening angle of the air supply module 2100. In addition, when the air supply module 2100 is closed, the upper hinge 2431 and the lower hinge 2432 can be inserted into the interior of the recessed space of the shield housing 2300.

[0179] A horizontal base 3110 is provided below the shield housing 2300. The horizontal base 3110 is located below the air supply module 2100, thereby preventing the air supply module 2100 and the air supply fan assembly 2000 from sagging downward.

[0180] A roller bracket 2400 for accommodating a roller (not shown) may be provided at the lower end of the air supply module 2100. The roller is configured to roll in contact with the horizontal base 3110, thereby guiding the air supply module 2100 to rotate smoothly when the air supply module 2100 rotates relative to the shield housing 2300.

[0181] The roller bracket 2400 is rotatably disposed on the upper side of the horizontal base 3110 , thereby preventing the air supply module 2110 from sagging downward together with the horizontal base 3110 .

[0182] On the other hand, the air supply module 2100 may be formed with a locking member mounting portion 270, and a locking member 280 for coupling the air supply module 2100 to the panel assembly 5300 may be mounted on the locking member mounting portion 270. The locking member mounting portion 270 may be formed at the lower end of the air supply module cover 2101. The locking member mounting portion 270 may protrude downward from the lower end of the air supply module cover 2101.

[0183] Furthermore, the locking member installation portion 270 may provide a space for accommodating the locking member 280 and a structure for operating the locking member 280. The locking member 280 and the locking member installation portion 270 may be at least partially shielded by the main body front housing 1100.

[0184] [Locking Member Mounting Portion and Locking Member]

[0185] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 In addition, Figure 9It is a partial front view showing the structure of the locking member of the indoor unit.

[0186] As shown, the locking member mounting portion 270 can be formed with an open front, and can accommodate the locking member 280 therein. For example, the locking member mounting portion 270 can include: mounting portion side surfaces 271 formed on the left and right sides; a mounting portion rear surface 274 forming the rear side; and a mounting portion bottom surface 273 forming the bottom side. The mounting portion side surfaces 271, the mounting portion rear surface 274, and the mounting portion bottom surface 273 can form a space for accommodating the locking member 280.

[0187] The mounting portion side surface 271 may be in contact with the left and right side surfaces of the locking member 280. The mounting portion side surface 271 may extend from the upper end of the locking member mounting portion 270 to the mounting portion bottom surface 273. Furthermore, a limiting groove 2711 may be formed on the mounting portion side surface 271. The limiting groove 2711 may engage with the limiting protrusions 2831 formed on the left and right side surfaces of the locking member 280 to maintain the locking member 280 in an elevated or lowered state.

[0188] A pair of limiting grooves 2711 may be formed on the mounting portion side surface 271 and may be spaced apart in the vertical direction. The limiting grooves 2711 may include an upper limiting groove 2711 formed at a position corresponding to the limiting protrusion 2831 when the locking member 280 is in the restriction-released state when the locking member 280 is raised to the first position; and a lower limiting groove 2711 formed at a position corresponding to the limiting protrusion 2831 when the locking member 280 is in the restriction state when the locking member 280 is lowered to the second position.

[0189] The mounting portion back surface 274 can support the back surface of the locking member 280 from behind. Furthermore, a back opening 2741 can be formed in the center of the mounting portion back surface 274. The back opening 2741 can be formed to allow the handle 2811 of the locking member 280 to pass through. Furthermore, the back opening 2741 can be long in the vertical direction to allow the handle 2811 to move up and down while passing through.

[0190] The mounting portion bottom surface 273 may protrude forward from the lower end of the mounting portion back surface 274. Furthermore, the mounting portion bottom surface 273 may form the lower end of the locking member mounting portion 270. Furthermore, a bottom opening 2732 may be formed in the mounting portion bottom surface 273 for the side portion 282 of the locking member 280 to pass through. The bottom opening 2732 may correspond to the cross-sectional size of the side portion 282. A pair of bottom openings 2732 may be provided separately on the mounting portion bottom surface 273.

[0191] The mounting portion bottom surface 273 may further include an upwardly protruding locking member support portion 2731. The locking member support portion 2731 may protrude upwardly between the pair of bottom surface openings 2732. Furthermore, the locking member support portion 2731 may extend from the lower end of the mounting portion back surface 274 to the back surface opening 2741.

[0192] The locking member support portion 2731 may protrude forward by a predetermined height, and may be spaced apart from the locking member 280 when the locking member 280 is in an ascending state, and may contact the locking member 280 when the locking member 280 is descending and in a restricted state. When the locking member 280 moves downward, the locking member support portion 2731 may contact the bottom surface of the connecting portion 281 to restrict the downward movement of the locking member 280.

[0193] Furthermore, a guide portion 272 for guiding the vertical movement of the locking member 280 may be formed on a side separated from the mounting portion side surface 271. The guide portions 272 may be formed on both the left and right sides and may protrude forward from the mounting portion back surface 274. Furthermore, the guide portions 272 may be formed to be insertable into the guide groove 284 of the locking member 280. Furthermore, the guide portions 272 may be formed so that, when inserted into the guide groove 284, they contact the inner surface of the guide groove 284, thereby guiding the locking member 280 to move smoothly vertically. The guide portions 272 may be formed to extend in the vertical direction and be shorter than the length of the guide groove 284.

[0194] A threaded hole 2722 for tightening a guide screw 285 may be formed on the front surface of the guide portion 272. The guide screw 285 may be tightened into the threaded hole 2722 when the locking member 280 is mounted on the locking member mounting portion 270. Furthermore, the head of the guide screw 285 is formed to have a larger diameter than the width of the guide groove 284 to maintain the locking member 280 mounted on the locking member mounting portion 270. The threaded holes 2722 may be spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0195] The locking member 280 is movably mounted on the locking member mounting portion 270 and can be selectively combined with and restricted by the panel assembly 5300 .

[0196] The locking member 280 may include a pair of side portions 282 disposed on the left and right sides, and a connecting portion 281 connecting the upper ends of the side portions 282. Specifically, the side portions 282 may extend downward from both left and right ends of the connecting portion 281 forming the upper portion of the locking member 280.

[0197] Furthermore, an edge portion 283 having a predetermined height may be formed along the periphery of the locking member 280. The edge portion 283 may also be formed along the periphery of the guide groove 284. The edge portion 283 may be in contact with the mounting portion side surface 271, the locking member support portion 2731, and the guide portion 272, thereby enabling stable movement of the locking member 280.

[0198] A limiting protrusion 2831 may protrude from the outer surface of the side portion 282. The limiting protrusion 2831 may be formed in a shape that can be inserted into the limiting groove 2711. A cutout portion 2832 may be formed in a portion of the edge portion 283 adjacent to the limiting protrusion 2831. Therefore, the portion of the edge portion 283 where the limiting protrusion 2831 is formed can be elastically deformed. When the locking member 280 moves, the limiting protrusion 2831 contacts the side surface 271 of the mounting portion, and a portion of the edge portion 283 is elastically deformed. In addition, when the locking member 280 is located at the set position above and below, the limiting protrusion 2831 is inserted into the inner side of the limiting groove 2711 by the elastic force of the cutout portion of the edge portion 283.

[0199] The guide groove 284 may be formed in the side portion 282. The guide groove 284 may be formed to extend vertically and accommodate the guide portion 272 therein. The guide groove 284 may be formed to extend from the upper end to the lower end of the side portion 282 and may be longer than the vertical length of the guide portion 272. Furthermore, the inner surface of the guide groove 284 may be formed by the edge portion 283. The edge portion 283 may be in surface contact with the guide portion 272, thereby enabling the locking member 280 to achieve stable movement during vertical movement without play or deflection.

[0200] The vertical extension length of the side portion 282 may be less than the length of the mounting portion side 271. Figure 8 As shown, when the locking member 280 is in a state where the upward movement restriction is released, the lower end of the side portion 282 can be located above the mounting portion bottom surface 273 and not exposed through the bottom surface opening 2732. Furthermore, when the locking member 280 is in a state where the downward movement restriction is imposed, the lower end of the side portion 282 can protrude downward through the bottom surface opening 2732 to be able to engage with the panel assembly 5300.

[0201] [Lower housing]

[0202] Figure 10 It is a partial perspective view of the panel assembly separated from the lower casing of the indoor unit.

[0203] As shown in the figure, the lower portion of the indoor unit 1 may be formed by a lower housing 5000. The lower housing 5000 may form a machine room 5102 with an open front. In addition, electrical components such as a control box 5170 may be disposed inside the machine room 5102.

[0204] The lower housing 5000 may include a lower housing body 5100 forming the machinery compartment 5102, and a panel assembly 5300 shielding the front opening of the lower housing body 5100. The panel assembly 5300, when coupled to the lower housing body 5100, may form the front half of the lower housing 5000. For example, the panel assembly 5300 may form a portion of the front half of the front and left and right side surfaces of the lower housing 5000.

[0205] In addition, the lower housing 5000 may include a base back portion 5400 disposed behind the lower housing body 5100 and forming the rear appearance of the lower housing 5000. As an example, the base back portion 5400 may form the back of the lower housing 5000 and a portion of the rear half of the left and right side surfaces.

[0206] Housing side portions 5220 extending forward may be formed on the left and right sides of the lower housing body 5100. The housing side portions 5220 may protrude forward and may form the left and right sides of the machinery compartment 5102. Furthermore, the housing side portions 5220 may be shielded by being coupled to the panel assembly 5300.

[0207] A side protrusion 5221 and a side coupling portion 5222 may be formed at the front end of the housing side portion 5220. The side protrusion 5221 and the side coupling portion 5222 may be coupled to the panel support portion 534 of the panel assembly 5300. In other words, the front end of the housing side portion 5220 may be formed in a stepped shape corresponding to the panel support portion 534, and may be coupled to each other when the panel assembly 5300 is installed.

[0208] A magnet 5223 may be disposed at the lower end of the side protrusion 5221. A plurality of magnets 5223 may be spaced apart. The magnets 5223 may be magnetically coupled to a lower attachment portion 5342 disposed on the panel 531. The coupling of the magnets 5223 and the lower attachment portion 5342 secures the lower end of the panel assembly 5300.

[0209] The side joint portion 5222 can extend from the upper end to the lower end of the housing side portion 5220. Furthermore, the side joint portion 5222 can be formed by being recessed from the outer side of the front end of the housing side portion. Therefore, when the panel assembly 5300 is installed, the housing side portion 5220 can prevent deformation of the left and right side surfaces of the panel assembly 5300 and maintain a stable installation state.

[0210] The lower housing 5000 may include a base 5200 forming the bottom surface of the lower housing 5000 and the indoor unit 1. The base 5200 may form the bottom surface of the machine room 5102 and may further protrude forward to meet the lower end of the panel assembly 5300.

[0211] On the other hand, a panel coupling portion 290 may be formed above the lower housing 5000. The panel coupling portion 290 may secure the upper end of the panel assembly 5300. The panel coupling portion 290 may protrude from the lower end of the main front housing 1100. Alternatively, the panel coupling portion 290 may be formed below the air supply module 2100. Furthermore, the panel coupling portion 290 may be disposed in front of the horizontal base 3110.

[0212] The panel coupling portion 290 may be provided with a magnet 291. A plurality of magnets 291 may be provided spaced apart from one another. The magnets 291 can be magnetically coupled to an upper attachment portion 5322 that engages the panel 531. The coupling of the magnets 291 and the upper attachment portion 5322 secures the upper end of the panel assembly 5300.

[0213] [Panel components]

[0214] Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the panel assembly. Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly. Figure 13 : is a perspective view showing a state where the support member of the panel assembly is rotated. Figure 14 It is along Figure 13 A cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14.

[0215] As shown in the figure, the panel assembly 5300 may include: a panel 531, which forms the front half appearance of the lower part of the indoor unit 1; a fixing member 535, which is combined with the locking member 280 to fix the panel 531; and a supporting member 536, which is selectively supported on the ground.

[0216] The panel 531 may be formed of a material corresponding to the material of the main front housing 1100. For example, the panel 531 may be formed of various materials such as plastic material and glass material.

[0217] Furthermore, the panel 531 may include a front portion 532 forming the front of the lower housing 5000, and side portions 533 forming portions of the left and right side surfaces of the lower housing 5000. The front portion 532 and the side portions 533 may have the same height and form the front appearance of the lower housing 5000. Furthermore, when the panel assembly 5300 is mounted on the lower housing 5000, the lower end of the panel 531 may be spaced apart from the ground. As an example, the lower end of the panel 531 may extend between the ground and the top surface of the base 5200.

[0218] The left-right width of the front portion 532 may correspond to the left-right width of the main front housing 1100. Furthermore, the left-right width of the side portion 533 may correspond to the left-right width of the side door assembly 2130. Therefore, when the panel assembly 5300 is installed, it can create a sense of unity with the main front housing 1100 and the side door assembly 2130, which form the front face of the upper portion of the indoor unit 1.

[0219] A panel fixing portion 5321 may be formed on the back of the panel assembly 5300. The panel fixing portion 5321 may protrude rearward along the upper end of the front portion 532 and may be formed in a hook-like shape. Furthermore, when installing the panel assembly 5300, the panel fixing portion 5321 is inserted into the coupling groove 292 formed in the panel coupling portion 290 for initial coupling.

[0220] An upper attachment portion 5322 may be provided on the upper portion of the back surface of the panel assembly 5300. The upper attachment portion 5322 may be formed of a metal material attached to the magnet 291 and may be installed on the upper side of the front portion 532. As an example, the upper attachment portion 5322 may be located between the panel fixing portion 5321 and the fixing member 535. A pair of the upper attachment portions 5322 may be arranged spaced apart on the left and right sides. In addition, the upper attachment portion 5322 may be formed at a position corresponding to the magnet 291 of the panel coupling portion 290. Therefore, when the panel assembly 5300 is installed, the upper attachment portion 5322 may be attached to the magnet 291 of the panel coupling portion 290 and may be coupled a second time.

[0221] The panel assembly 5300 may include a panel support portion 534. The panel support portion 534 may be provided at the left and right corners of the back surface of the panel assembly 5300. Furthermore, a plurality of panel support portions 534 may be spaced apart in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the front end of the panel support portion 534 may be in contact with the front portion 532, and the side end of the panel support portion 534 may be in contact with the side portion 533. Thus, deformation of the panel 531 can be prevented and the shape of the panel 531 can be maintained.

[0222] Furthermore, the panel support portion 534 protrudes vertically from the back of the panel assembly 5300 and can be coupled to and supported by the end of the housing side portion 5220. Specifically, the protruding front end of the panel support portion 534 can be inserted into the side coupling portion 5222, and the support portion groove 5341 recessed at the front end of the panel support portion 534 can be coupled to the side protrusion 5221. In other words, the panel support portion 534, by coupling with the housing side portion 5220, can guide the panel assembly 5300 to the correct position for installation.

[0223] The panel support portion 534 may be provided with a lower attachment portion 5342. For example, the lower attachment portion 5342 may be provided on a pair of panel support portions 534 located at the bottom left and right sides of the plurality of panel support portions 534. The lower attachment portion 5342 may be formed of a metal material that attaches to the magnet 5223 and may be formed at a position corresponding to the magnet 5223 on the housing side portion 5220. Therefore, when the panel assembly 5300 is installed, the lower attachment portion 5342 may engage with the magnet 5223 on the housing side portion 5220, thereby achieving a second attachment of the panel assembly 5300.

[0224] Therefore, the panel assembly 5300 can be mounted on the lower housing body 5100 by attaching the upper attachment portion 5322 and the lower attachment portion 5342 using the magnet 5223 and inserting the panel fixing portion 2321 into the coupling portion groove 292. In addition, when the machine room 5102 needs to be repaired or needs to be stored in the internal space of the lower housing body 5100, the panel assembly 5300 can be easily separated and mounted without the need for additional tools.

[0225] A fixing member 535 may be provided on the upper portion of the panel assembly 5300. The fixing member 535 may be coupled to the locking member 280. By coupling the fixing member 535 and the locking member 280, the panel assembly 5300 may be integrally fixed to the air supply fan assembly 2000, i.e., the air supply module 2100.

[0226] The fixing member 535 may be fixedly mounted on the back surface of the panel 531 and may be located below the locking member 280. As an example, the fixing member 535 may be disposed between the panel support portions 534 located on both sides.

[0227] The fixing member 535 may have a fixing hole 5351 formed therein. The fixing hole 5351 may be formed below the side portion 282 of the locking member 280. Furthermore, the fixing hole 5351 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the side portion 282 so that the side portion 282 can be inserted therein. Furthermore, the fixing hole 5351 may be aligned and disposed facing the bottom opening 2732.

[0228] The fixing member 535 may have fixing member coupling portions 5352 formed on both sides. The fixing member coupling portions 5352 may extend to both sides and may be coupled to the panel support portion 534 via screws 5353. When the fixing member 535 is coupled to the panel support portion 534, the fixing member 535 may connect the panel support portions 534. The fixing member 535 may also connect the topmost panel support portions 534 among the plurality of panel support portions 534.

[0229] On the other hand, the fixing member 535 may also be formed integrally with the panel assembly 5300. In addition, the fixing member 535 may also extend from one side of the panel support portion 534 to be formed integrally with the panel support portion 534.

[0230] The panel assembly 5300 may include a support member 536. In addition, the support member 536 is rotatably mounted on the panel assembly 5300 and can be selectively protruded downward of the panel assembly 5300 by being rotated.

[0231] When the air supply module 2100 is closed, the support member 536 is located in the inner area of ​​the panel assembly 5300 so as not to protrude downward from the panel assembly 5300. In addition, when the air supply module 2100 is open and the panel assembly 5300 is used to support the air supply module 2100, the support member 536 can be rotated to protrude downward from the panel assembly 5300 and contact the ground.

[0232] As an example, the support member 536 may include a support member body 5360 , a pad 537 , and a coupling bracket 538 .

[0233] The supporting member body 5360 forms the overall shape of the supporting member 536 and may include: an extension portion 5361 extending in the up-down direction; and a supporting portion 5362 extending from an end of the extending portion 5361 toward a direction intersecting the extending portion 5361 .

[0234] The extension portion 5361 can be disposed between the panel support portions 534 on both sides. Furthermore, the extension portion 5361 can extend to the lower end of the panel 531. Laterally protruding rotational shafts 5364 can be formed on the left and right sides of the extension portion 5361. The rotational shafts 5364 can be installed through the panel support portions 534 and rotatably mounted to the coupling bracket 538. Thus, the support member body 5360 can rotate about the rotational shafts 5364.

[0235] The coupling brackets 538 are provided on both sides of the support member 536 and can be coupled to the panel support portion 534. For example, the coupling brackets 538 can be inserted and mounted on the panel support portion 534. When the coupling brackets 538 are mounted on the panel support portion 534, the coupling brackets 538 can form a part of the appearance of the panel support portion 534.

[0236] A rotation shaft hole 5381 is formed on the side of the coupling bracket 538 for inserting the rotation shaft 5364. The rotation shaft 5364 can be installed through the rotation shaft hole 5381. In addition, a threaded hole 5382 is formed on the bottom surface of the coupling bracket 538 for fastening with a screw 5383. The coupling bracket 538 can be coupled to the panel support portion 534 using the screw 5383.

[0237] A plurality of reinforcing ribs 5365 having a lattice shape as a whole are formed on the back side of the extension portion 5361. The reinforcing ribs 5365 can increase the strength of the supporting member 536, so that the panel assembly 5300 can stably support the air supply module 2100.

[0238] Furthermore, a support protrusion 5366 may be formed on the front surface of the extension portion 5361. The support protrusion 5366 may support the panel 531 from the rear when the support member 536 is rotated. A plurality of the support protrusions 5366 may be spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0239] The support portion 5362 may extend forward from the lower end of the extension portion 5361. The support portion 5362 may extend perpendicularly to the extension portion 5361. In addition, when the support member 536 is rotated, the support portion 5362 may protrude forward through the lower end of the panel 531.

[0240] A pad mounting portion 5363 may be formed on the bottom surface of the support portion 5362. The pad mounting portion 5363 may be integrally formed with the support portion 5362 and may open downward from the support portion 5362. Thus, the pad 537 may be accommodated within the support portion 5362. In this case, the depth of the recess of the pad mounting portion 5363 may be smaller than the thickness of the pad 537. Therefore, when mounted on the pad mounting portion 5363, the pad 537 may protrude downward from the support portion 5362 and contact the ground.

[0241] Furthermore, the pad 537 can be formed into a quadrilateral shape corresponding to the pad mounting portion 5363 and can be formed into a plate shape having a predetermined thickness. The pad 537 can be formed of a compressible material and compressed when the support portion 5362 contacts the ground, thereby more stably supporting the panel assembly 5300 and preventing slippage. As an example, the pad 537 can be formed of rubber, silicon, compressible foam, etc.

[0242] The support portion 5362 may further include a support portion protrusion 5367 limited to the lower end of the panel 531. The support portion protrusion 5367 protrudes upward from the top surface of the support portion 5362 and may protrude forward from the front surface of the extension portion 5361 by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the panel 531. Figure 14 As shown, the support protrusion 5367 can be formed so that the lower end of the panel 531 is locked and restricted when the support member 536 is rotated. Therefore, in order for the panel assembly 5300 to support the air supply module 2100, when the support member 536 is rotated, the panel 531 and the support protrusion 5367 are locked and restricted to each other, so that the support member 536 can maintain the rotation state.

[0243] When the panel assembly 5300 is installed on the lower shell 5200, the panel assembly 5300 keeps the panel fixing portion 5321 inserted into the coupling groove 292 and the upper attachment portion 5322 and the lower attachment portion 5342 are respectively attached to the magnets 291 and 5223 provided on the panel coupling portion 290 and the lower shell 5200.

[0244] In addition, if Figure 14 As shown in (a), when the panel assembly 5300 is mounted on the lower housing 5200, the lower end of the panel assembly 5300, i.e., the lower end of the panel 531, can be positioned above the ground. In this case, the height H2 from the ground to the lower end of the panel 531 can be smaller than the height H1 from the ground to the base 5200.

[0245] Furthermore, the support member 536 can be rotated about the rotation axis 5364 until the bottom surface of the support portion 5362 faces upward. Specifically, the extension portion 5361 can be in close contact with the back surface of the panel 531, and the support portion 5362 can be positioned above the rotation axis 5364. In this state, the pad 537 is uncompressed and thus remains protruding from the bottom surface of the support portion 5362 by an amount corresponding to the set height H4.

[0246] In order to use the panel assembly 5300 to support the air supply fan assembly 2000, the panel assembly 5300 can be separated from the lower housing 5200. The panel assembly 5300 can be separated from the lower housing 5200 without the need for additional tools. In addition, by combining the locking member 280 and the fixing member 535 to fix the upper end of the panel assembly 5300 to the air supply fan assembly 2000, the air supply fan assembly 2000 can be supported from below.

[0247] At this time, if Figure 14 As shown in (b), the lower end of the panel assembly 5300 is separated from the ground, so that the user can rotate the support member 536. The support member 536 can rotate and contact the ground, so that the panel assembly 5300 is supported on the ground, and finally the air supply fan assembly 2000 can be in a stable supported state.

[0248] Specifically, the support member 536 can rotate about the rotation axis 5364, and the support portion 5362 can be located below the rotation axis 5364 and in contact with the ground. At this time, the support portion protrusion 5367 of the extension portion 5361 can contact the back surface of the panel 531 and support the panel from the rear.

[0249] On the other hand, as the support member 536 moves downward, the space between the lower end of the panel 531 and the ground is filled by the support portion 5362. Specifically, the height H2 from the ground to the lower end of the panel 531 is less than the height H1 from the ground to the base 5200, and the support portion 5362 fills the space between the ground and the lower end of the panel 531. Therefore, the height from the ground to the support portion 5362 can be the same as the height H2 from the ground to the lower end of the panel 531.

[0250] On the other hand, when the support portion 5362 is in contact with the ground, the pad 537 installed on the support portion 5362 can be in contact with the ground together with the support portion 5362 and compressed. Depending on various surrounding environments such as the state of the ground and the slope of the indoor unit 1, there may be an error in the distance between the lower end of the panel 531 and the ground. At this time, the pad 537 can be compressed and fill the space between the bottom surface of the support portion 5362 and the ground. Therefore, the pad 537 can maintain a state of protruding from the bottom surface of the support portion 5362 by an amount corresponding to the set height H3. At this time, Figure 14 The protruding height H3 of the pad 537 in (b) can be greater than Figure 14 The protrusion height H4 of the pad 537 in (a) is lower.

[0251] [Panel assembly installation structure]

[0252] Figure 15 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15.

[0253] As shown in the figure, the panel assembly 5300 can be installed on the panel coupling portion 290. At this time, the panel fixing portion 5321 formed at the upper end of the panel assembly 5300 can be inserted into the coupling groove 292 of the panel coupling portion 290. The insertion of the panel fixing portion 5321 into the coupling groove 292 can guide the installation position of the panel assembly 5300. Furthermore, the bottom surface 2921 of the coupling groove 292 is formed into a flat surface corresponding to the panel fixing portion 5321, thereby supporting the panel fixing portion 5321 from below.

[0254] When the panel fixing portion 5321 is inserted into the coupling groove 292, the upper attachment portion 5322 of the panel assembly 5300 and the magnet 291 provided on the panel coupling portion 290 can be attached to each other through magnetic force. To facilitate the placement of the upper attachment portion 5322, a rearwardly protruding attachment protrusion 5323 can be formed on the back of the panel. The attachment protrusion 5323 allows the upper attachment portion 5322 to protrude toward the magnet 291.

[0255] The panel joint portion 290 may be formed with a recessed attachment portion receiving groove 2901 to accommodate the upper attachment portion 5322. Furthermore, the attachment portion receiving groove 2901 may be formed with a recessed magnet groove 2902 to receive the magnet 291. The magnet groove 2902 may be recessed into a shape corresponding to the magnet 291. Therefore, when the panel assembly 5300 is installed, the upper attachment portion 5322 and the magnet 291 may be in close contact with each other.

[0256] In addition, when the air supply module 2100 is closed, the lower attachment portion 5342 may be attached to the magnet 5223 of the housing side portion 5220 . Furthermore, the panel support portion 534 may be coupled to and supported by the housing side portion 5220 .

[0257] Furthermore, when the air supply module 2100 is open and the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotating, the panel assembly 5300 can be in a state where only the upper attachment portion 5322 is attached to the magnet 291 of the panel coupling portion 290. Furthermore, the locking member 280 is coupled with the fixing member 535, ensuring that the panel assembly 5300 and the air supply fan assembly 2000 remain securely coupled. Therefore, when the air supply module 2100 is open, the air supply module 2100 can be supported from below.

[0258] Hereinafter, the coupled state of the panel assembly 5300 and the blower fan assembly 2000 based on the operation of the locking member 280 will be described in detail.

[0259] Figure 16 This is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the locking member moves upward when the panel assembly is combined with the air supply fan assembly. Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A three-dimensional image taken along line 17-17.

[0260] As shown in the figure, when the locking member 280 is moved upward, the panel assembly 5300 can be simply fixed to the lower end of the air supply module 2100. At this time, the panel assembly 5300 can be combined with the air supply module 2100 via the upper attachment portion 5322 and the panel fixing portion 5321.

[0261] The locking member 280 may be in the uppermost position. In this case, the handle 2811 is located above the rear opening 2741, and the lower end of the side portion 282 may be located above the bottom opening 2732. Furthermore, the guide portion 272 may be in contact with the lower end of the guide groove 284.

[0262] Therefore, the locking member 280 is not coupled to the fixing member 535 and does not restrict the panel assembly 5300. Therefore, the user can pull the panel assembly 5300 forward to remove it from the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0263] On the other hand, in order to allow the panel assembly 5300 to firmly support the air supply module 2100 from below when the air supply module 2100 is open, the locking member 280 may be operated to couple the panel assembly 5300 and the air supply fan assembly 2000 .

[0264] To this end, the user can operate the handle 2811 to move it downward, and the locking member 280 can move downward to engage with the fixing member 535. Through the engagement of the locking member 280 and the fixing member 535, the panel assembly 5300 can be firmly coupled to the air supply fan assembly 2000 and stably support the air supply module 2100 from below. At this time, the support member 536 rotates, so that the support portion 5362 and the pad 537 are in contact with the ground.

[0265] Figure 18 It is shown in Figure 16 A partial perspective view of the state in which the locking member moves downward. Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 A three-dimensional image taken along line 19-19.

[0266] As shown in the drawing, when the handle 2811 is moved to the lower end of the rear opening 2741 , the locking member 280 can be moved downward to the maximum extent.

[0267] In this state, the connection portion 281 of the locking member 280 may be in contact with the locking member support portion 2731. In addition, when the locking member 280 moves downward, the guide portion 272 moves upward along the guide groove 284 and may move to the upper end of the guide groove 284.

[0268] Furthermore, the side portion 282 can pass through the bottom opening 2732 and be inserted into the fixing hole 5351 of the fixing member 535. The lower end of the side portion 282 can pass through the fixing hole 5351 and protrude downward. Furthermore, the fixing hole 5351 is formed with an extension surface 5351a extending downward along the periphery of the fixing hole 5351, providing a surface for contact with the side portion 282. Thus, the locking member 280 and the fixing member 535 can be combined into a more secure and stable structure.

[0269] By combining the locking member 280 and the fixing member 535, the panel assembly 5300 can be securely coupled to the lower end of the air supply module 2100. In particular, the pair of side portions 282 are respectively inserted into the pair of fixing holes 5351, allowing the panel assembly 5300 to remain securely coupled without rotating or moving.

[0270] In this state, even if a load is applied to the air supply module 2100 , the panel assembly 5300 can maintain a stably coupled and supported state without being separated.

[0271] [Air supply fan assembly support process]

[0272] Figure 20 The figures sequentially illustrate the supporting operation of the blower fan assembly using the panel assembly.

[0273] like Figure 20 As shown in (a), during use of the indoor unit 1, the air supply fan assembly 2000 remains closed. While the air supply fan assembly 2000 is closed, the indoor unit 1 operates to blow heat-exchanged air into the indoor space. Furthermore, the panel assembly 5300 also remains assembled to the lower housing 5000, forming the exterior appearance of the indoor unit 1.

[0274] When the interior of the air supply fan assembly 2000 needs to be cleaned due to long-term use of the indoor unit 1 or when maintenance of the structure of the air supply fan assembly 2000 is required, the air supply fan assembly 2000 may be opened.

[0275] On the other hand, Figure 20 As shown in (b), before opening the air supply fan assembly 2000, the panel assembly 5300 can be separated from the lower housing 5000. The panel assembly 5300 can be pulled forward to be separated from the lower housing 5000 without the need for additional tools.

[0276] When the panel assembly 5300 is detached, the machine room 5102 is exposed. Therefore, maintenance can be performed on the interior of the machine room 5102. Furthermore, if the interior of the machine room 5102 is configured as a storage space, the panel assembly 5300 can be detached and stored in the storage space.

[0277] like Figure 20 As shown in (c), after separating the panel assembly 5300, the support member 536 of the panel assembly 5300 can be rotated to make the support portion 5362 and the pad 537 face the ground. At this time, the support member 536 can be fully rotated so that the panel 531 is restricted by the support portion protrusion 5367.

[0278] In addition, the air supply fan assembly 2000 can be rotated to open. To do this, the restricting device 1290 provided at the upper end of the main body rear housing 1200 can be operated. If the restricting device 1290 is operated to release the restriction of the air supply fan assembly 2000, the user can rotate the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0279] The air supply fan assembly 2000 can rotate about the upper hinge 2431 and the lower hinge 2432 and about the main body front housing 1100. At this time, the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotated open to expose the air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300.

[0280] On the other hand, since the air supply fan assembly 2000 is open, the center of gravity of the indoor unit 1 is moved forward, which may cause it to be somewhat unstable. Figure 20 As shown in (d), the user couples the panel assembly 5300 to the lower end of the air supply fan assembly 2000 to support the air supply fan assembly 2000. That is, the panel assembly 5300 supports the air supply module 2100 from below.

[0281] At this point, the magnet 291 of the panel coupling portion 290 can be attached to the upper attachment portion 5322, and the panel fixing portion 5321 can be inserted and engaged with the coupling portion groove 292. In this state, the panel assembly 5300 is temporarily fixed to the air supply fan assembly 2000, and the bottom opening 2732 and the fixing hole 5351 are aligned with each other. Furthermore, the user can move the locking member 280 downward to engage the locking member 280 with the fixing member 535.

[0282] On the other hand, when the panel assembly 5300 is securely attached to the lower end of the open air supply fan assembly 2000, the support portion 5362 and pad 537 of the support member 536 can be in contact with the ground. Therefore, the panel assembly 5300 can be stably in contact with the ground without separating or shifting. Furthermore, when cleaning or maintaining the air supply module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300, the panel assembly 5300 can maintain a stable support position, preventing excessive shaking of the indoor unit 1.

[0283] When the cleaning or maintenance work on the air supply fan assembly 2000 is completed, the locking member 280 can be moved upward again to separate the panel assembly 5300 from the air supply fan assembly 2000. In addition, the support member 536 can be rotated to make the support portion 5362 face backward. In addition, the air supply fan assembly 2000 can be rotated to connect with the front of the main body back shell 1200, and the limiting device 1290 can be used to keep the air supply fan assembly 2000 in a closed state. In addition, the panel assembly 5300 can be installed on the lower shell 5000 to become a fixed part of the lower shell 5000. Figure 20 (a) The same state.

[0284] On the other hand, the present invention may also include various other embodiments besides the aforementioned embodiment. Another embodiment of the present invention differs only in the structure of the locking member and the combination structure of the locking member and the panel assembly, while the other components may be the same as the aforementioned embodiment. Therefore, the same components as the aforementioned embodiment are described using the same reference numerals, and detailed description or illustration thereof may be omitted.

[0285] In addition, in order to avoid duplication of descriptions, the following description will focus on the configurations that are different from the aforementioned embodiments, and configurations that are not described or shown can be understood from the aforementioned embodiments.

[0286] Figure 21 This is a partial perspective view of the air supply fan assembly of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below. Figure 22 This is a partial perspective view showing the situation in which the locking member of the indoor unit rotates. Figure 23 This is a partial perspective view showing the panel assembly installed in the open state of the air supply fan assembly. Figure 24 It is along Figure 23 A three-dimensional image taken along line 24-24.

[0287] As shown in the figure, the indoor unit 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include an air supply fan assembly 2000. The air supply fan assembly 2000 may include an air supply module 2100, which includes an air supply module 230 including an air supply fan and a motor. Furthermore, the air supply modules 230 may be configured in a plurality and may be arranged in a vertically continuous manner. As an example, in the air supply module 2100, a first air supply module 210, a second air supply module 220, and a third air supply module 230 may be arranged in a vertically continuous manner.

[0288] Furthermore, the air supply module 2100 can be formed from an air supply module housing 2101. Side outlets 2111 can be formed on the left and right sides of the air supply module housing 2101 to discharge air through the operation of the air supply fan. Exhaust grilles 2112 can be formed on the side outlets. Furthermore, a side door assembly 2130 is provided on the air supply module 2100 to enable opening and closing of the side outlets 2111.

[0289] Furthermore, upper hinges 2431 and lower hinges 2432 may be provided at the upper and lower ends of the air supply module 2100, respectively, to be rotatably coupled to the main body rear housing 1200. Thus, the air supply fan assembly 2000 can rotate relative to the main body rear housing 1200. Furthermore, when the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotated to open, the air supply module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300 are exposed.

[0290] On the other hand, a connection device mounting portion 293 may be formed at the lower end of the air supply module 2100 , and a connection device 294 coupled to the panel assembly 5300 is provided on the connection device mounting portion 293 . The connection device mounting portion 293 may constitute the lower portion of the air supply fan assembly 2000 .

[0291] The connector mounting portion 293 may include a recessed connector accommodating portion 2930. The connector accommodating portion 2930 may have a size and shape corresponding to the connector 294. Furthermore, the connector mounting portion 293 may include a downwardly extending mounting portion back surface 274 at its rear end. Furthermore, the mounting portion back surface 274 may include a limiting groove 2932 that engages with the limiting protrusion 2944 when the connector 294 is folded.

[0292] The connecting device 294 is rotatably mounted on the connecting device mounting portion 293, and can be configured to be folded or unfolded from the connecting device mounting portion 293. In addition, when unfolded, a portion of the connecting device 294 can protrude downward from the air supply fan assembly 2000 and engage with the upper end of the panel assembly 5300. The connecting device 294 can be referred to as a locking member, corresponding to the locking member of the first embodiment.

[0293] Specifically, the connecting device 294 may include a connecting device body 2941. The connecting device body 2941 may be formed to have a length that allows it to protrude to a position below the lower end of the air supply fan assembly 2000 during rotation.

[0294] Furthermore, rotating members 2946 may be provided on both sides of the connecting device body 2941. The rotating members 2946 may be coupled to the connecting device body 2941 to allow the connecting device 294 to be rotatable. The rotating members 2946 may be fixedly mounted to the connecting device receiving portion 2930.

[0295] A main body handle 2945 that a user operates to rotate the connecting device 294 may be protruded from the center of the lower end of the connecting device body 2941. The main body handle 2945 may be protruded so that the user can operate it when the connecting device 294 is accommodated in the connecting device accommodating portion 2930.

[0296] The left and right sides of the lower end of the connecting device body 2941 may include a main body coupling portion 2942 coupled to the panel assembly 5300. Furthermore, the main body coupling portion 2942 may be formed at the left and right lower ends of the connecting device body 2941. Furthermore, the main body coupling portion 2942 may protrude further downward than the bottom surface of the connecting device body 2941.

[0297] The main body coupling portion 2942 may include a main body groove 2948 open to the front and a main body protrusion 2947 at the lower end of the main body groove 2948. The main body groove 2948 may be open to the front, and the main body protrusion 2947 may protrude forward. The main body groove 2948 and the main body protrusion 2947 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the panel protrusion 5344 and the panel groove 5343 of the panel assembly 5300 so as to be able to be coupled therewith.

[0298] The panel assembly 5300 may include a plate-shaped panel 531 forming the appearance of the panel assembly 5300. In addition, the panel 531 may include a panel front portion 532 forming the front side and panel side portions 533 extending rearward from both left and right sides of the panel front portion 532.

[0299] Furthermore, the panel assembly 5300 may include the panel support portion 534. The panel support portion 534 may be disposed at the corners of the panel front portion 532 and the panel side portion 533. Furthermore, the panel support portion 534 may be disposed on both sides, and may be spaced apart in the vertical direction. The panel support portion 534 may be coupled to and supported by the housing side portion 5220 of the lower housing 5000.

[0300] A lower attachment portion 5342 may be formed at the rear end of the lowest panel support portion 534 among the plurality of panel support portions 534. The lower attachment portion 5342 is formed of a metal material and can be magnetically attached to a magnet 5223 provided on the housing side portion 5220 when the panel assembly 5300 is installed. Furthermore, although not shown, an upper attachment portion 5322 may be formed on the panel front portion 532.

[0301] A panel protrusion 5344 and a panel groove 5343 may be formed at the rear end of the uppermost panel support portion 534 among the plurality of panel support portions 534. The panel protrusion 5344 and the panel groove 5343 may be formed at the protruding rear end of the panel support portion 534.

[0302] The panel protrusion 5344 is formed at the upper end of the panel support portion 534 and is formed to be inserted into the main body groove 2948. The panel protrusion 5344 protrudes rearward and can be fixed in a state of being inserted into the main body groove 2948 that opens toward the front. At this time, the facing surfaces of the panel protrusion 5344 and the main body groove 2948 are formed at an angle, thereby facilitating the insertion of the panel protrusion 5344.

[0303] Furthermore, the panel groove 5343 is provided below the panel protrusion 5344, and the back surface of the panel support portion 534 may be open. Furthermore, the panel groove 5343 may be sized to accommodate the main body protrusion 2947. Furthermore, the bottom surface of the main body protrusion 2947 is inclined, allowing for easy insertion into the panel groove 5343.

[0304] Therefore, when the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotated and the air supply module 2100 is opened, the panel assembly 5300 can be separated from the lower housing 5000 and then mounted to the lower end of the air supply fan assembly 2000 .

[0305] Alternatively, the indoor unit 1 can open the air supply fan assembly 2000 to perform cleaning or maintenance. To do this, the panel assembly 5300 is first separated from the lower housing 5000. The air supply fan assembly 2000 is then rotated to open it. Specifically, the air supply module 2100 can be rotated relative to the shroud housing 2300 to expose both the air supply module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300.

[0306] Then, while the locking member 280 is rotated and protruded downward, the panel groove 5343 and the panel protrusion 5344 at the upper end of the panel assembly 5300 are inserted into the main body protrusion 2947 and the main body groove 2948 of the locking member 280. Thus, the panel assembly 5300 is coupled to the blower fan assembly 2000.

[0307] At this time, the lower end of the panel assembly 5300 is supported on the ground, and the upper end of the panel assembly 5300 is combined with the lower end of the open air supply fan assembly 2000 to support the air supply fan assembly 2000 from below.

[0308] Therefore, the air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300 can be stably kept exposed, and the user can safely perform cleaning and maintenance work on the air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300 .

[0309] Figure 25 This is a partial perspective view of the air supply fan assembly of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below. Figure 26 It is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the air supply fan assembly is supported by a locking member in an open state.

[0310] As shown in the figure, the indoor unit 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include an air supply fan assembly 2000. The air supply fan assembly 2000 may include an air supply module 2100 having an air supply fan and a motor. Furthermore, the air supply module 2100 may be configured in a plurality and may be arranged in a vertically continuous manner. As an example, within the air supply module 2100, a first air supply module 210, a second air supply module 220, and a third air supply module 230 may be arranged in a vertically continuous manner.

[0311] Furthermore, the air supply module 2100 can be formed from an air supply module housing 2101. Side outlets 2111 can be formed on the left and right sides of the air supply module housing 2101 to discharge air through the operation of the air supply fan. Exhaust grilles 2112 can be formed on the side outlets. Furthermore, a side door assembly 2130 is provided on the air supply module 2100 to enable opening and closing of the side outlets 2111.

[0312] Furthermore, upper hinges 2341 and lower hinges 2342 may be provided at the upper and lower ends of the air supply module 2100, respectively, and may be rotatably coupled to the main body rear housing 1200. Thus, the air supply fan assembly 2000 may rotate relative to the main body rear housing 1200. Furthermore, when the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotated to open, the air supply module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300 are exposed.

[0313] On the other hand, a support device mounting portion 296 may be formed at the lower end of the air supply module 2100, and a support device 295 for supporting the air supply fan assembly 2000 from below is provided on the support device mounting portion 296. The support device mounting portion 296 may constitute the lower portion of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0314] A concave supporting device receiving portion 2960 may be formed in the supporting device mounting portion 296. The supporting device receiving portion 2960 may be concavely formed to a size capable of receiving the supporting device 295.

[0315] The support device 295 can be configured to support the air supply fan assembly 2000, i.e., the air supply module 2100, from below when the air supply fan assembly 2000 is open. For example, the support device 295 can extend downward from one side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 and can contact the ground to support the air supply fan assembly 2000 from below.

[0316] The supporting device 295 may be rotatably mounted on the supporting device mounting portion 296 and may have an extendable structure.

[0317] Specifically, the support device 295 may include a support device body 2950. The support device body 2950 may be configured to face the ground from the lower end of the air supply fan assembly 2000 during rotation. Furthermore, the support device body 2950 may have a multi-section elongated structure. Furthermore, the support device body 2950 may be lengthened to accommodate within the support device accommodating portion 2960.

[0318] As an example, the support device body 2950 can be configured to extend telescopically. The support device body 2950 can be composed of a first body 2951, a second body 2952, and a third body 2953 having different sizes. The first body 2951 can be coupled to the support device mounting portion 296, and the second body 2952 can be extended downward from the inner side of the first body 2951. In addition, the third body 2953 can be extended downward from the inner side of the second body 2952. In addition, the second body 2952 and the third body 2953 can be configured to be locked and restricted in the extended or introduced state.

[0319] The support device body 2950 is rotatably mounted on the support device mounting portion 296 to support the air supply fan assembly 2000 or be accommodated in the support device accommodating portion 2960 .

[0320] Support device rotating members 2954 may be provided on both sides of the support device body 2950. The support device rotating members 2954 may be axially coupled to the first body 2951 to allow the support device 295 to be rotatably mounted. The support device rotating members 2954 may be fixedly mounted to the support device accommodating portion 2960. The support device 295 may be folded and stored in the support device accommodating portion 2960 when it is extended to its minimum length.

[0321] On the other hand, the indoor unit 1 can open the air supply fan assembly 2000 to perform cleaning or maintenance. To do this, the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotated to open it. In other words, the air supply module 2100 can be rotated relative to the shroud housing 2300 to expose both the air supply module 2100 and the shroud housing 2300.

[0322] While the air supply fan assembly 2000 is rotating and the air supply module 2100 is open, the support device 295 disposed in the support device accommodating portion 2960 can be rotated so that it faces the ground. The second body 2952 and the third body 2953 can then be sequentially extended from the first body 2951, allowing the support device 295 to extend and rest on the ground. Thus, the support device 295 can stably support the air supply fan assembly 2000 while maintaining its open position.

[0323] In this state, the user can safely perform cleaning and maintenance work on the air supply module 2100 and the shield housing 2300 .

[0324] In addition, when the blower fan assembly 2000 is open, the panel assembly 5300 is detached, thereby enabling repair or maintenance inside the machine room 5102. Of course, when the blower fan assembly 2000 is open, the panel assembly 5300 can also remain fixedly mounted on the lower housing 5000.

Claims

1. An indoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein: include: a housing accommodating a heat exchanger; an air supply fan assembly disposed in front of the housing, at least a portion of the air supply fan assembly being opened and closed by rotation, an air supply fan for circulating air being provided within the air supply fan assembly, and an outlet for discharging air that has passed through the heat exchanger; A lower shell is provided at the lower part of the shell to form a space of a machine room; as well as a panel assembly detachably mounted on the lower housing, shielding the machine room and forming a front appearance of the indoor unit; The panel assembly is combined with the air supply fan assembly when the air supply fan assembly is in an open state; The panel assembly is connected between the air supply fan assembly and the ground to support the air supply fan assembly.

2. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The air supply fan assembly is provided with a locking member selectively combined with the panel assembly; A locking member mounting portion is formed on the air supply fan assembly and is open downward to accommodate the locking member; The locking member moves to a first position where it is accommodated in the locking member installation portion and a second position where it protrudes toward an outer side of the locking member installation portion to be combined with the panel assembly under the operation of a user.

3. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein: The locking member comprises: a side portion extending in an up-down direction; and a connecting portion connecting upper ends of a pair of side portions spaced apart from each other; The locking member moves downward toward the second position and is coupled to the panel assembly.

4. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein A cutout portion is formed on the side surface of the side portion, wherein a portion of the side surface is cut out to be elastically deformable, and a restricting protrusion protruding from one side of the cutout portion; A limiting groove is formed on the side of the locking member mounting portion to be locked and restricted by the limiting protrusion; The limiting groove includes: an upper limiting groove, into which the limiting protrusion is inserted when the locking member is located at the first position; as well as A lower limiting groove is formed, and when the locking member is located at the second position, the limiting protrusion is inserted into the lower limiting groove.

5. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein: A guide groove is formed on the side portion and extends along a moving direction of the side portion; A guide portion is protrudingly formed on the locking member mounting portion, the guide portion being inserted into the guide groove and moving along the guide groove; When the locking member is located at the first position, the lower end of the guide portion is in contact with the lower end of the guide groove; When the locking member is located at the second position, the upper end of the guide portion is in contact with the upper end of the guide groove.

6. The indoor unit of an air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein: The panel assembly includes: a plate-shaped panel forming the exterior of the indoor unit; and The fixing member is arranged on the upper portion of the panel and is combined with the locking member.

7. The indoor unit of an air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: The fixing member is formed with a fixing hole penetrating the fixing member at a position facing the side portion; When the locking member moves downward, the side portion is inserted into the fixing hole.

8. The indoor unit of an air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The panel assembly further includes a support member that protrudes downward from the panel assembly and contacts the ground under user operation.

9. The indoor unit of an air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein: The support member comprises: an extension portion extending to a lower end of the panel assembly, wherein left and right sides of the extension portion are connected to each other; and a supporting portion extending forward from the lower end of the extending portion and contacting the ground; When the panel assembly is mounted on the lower housing, the support member is rotated so that the support portion faces upward; In a state where the panel assembly supports the blower fan assembly, the support member rotates so that the support portion faces downward.

10. The indoor unit of an air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein A panel joint portion is formed on the air supply fan assembly and is combined with the panel assembly; A magnet is provided at the panel joint portion; An upper attachment portion of a metal material to which the magnet is attached is formed on the back surface of the panel assembly so that the panel assembly can be attached and detached under the action of magnetic force.

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