Air conditioner and operation method thereof

Abstract

An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a water tank for accommodating water generated or required during air conditioning; the turbidity sensor is arranged below the lower end part of the water tank; a sensor water supply flow path through which the water accommodated in the water tank flows to the turbidity sensor; a valve for opening and closing the sensor water supply flow path; a sensor drain flow path through which water discharged from the turbidity sensor flows; and a pump that causes the water discharged from the turbidity sensor to flow to the water tank through the sensor discharge flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner including a sensor capable of determining a water tank and a contamination degree of water in the water tank and an operating method thereof. Background Art

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that uses the flow of air to perform at least one of cooling, heating, air purification, humidification, and dehumidification, thereby creating a comfortable indoor environment. Such an air conditioner has a water tank that stores water for humidification or dehumidification. Since the water tank always contains water and is in contact with the air, microorganisms are easy to reproduce, which causes inconvenience in maintenance management such as the user having to frequently and unnecessary cleaning. Therefore, various studies on water tank management are being continuously conducted.

[0003] The existing document Korean Authorized Patent Publication No. 10-1073637 relates to an air conditioner having a large-capacity humidifier and a small-capacity humidifier as a humidification mechanism. Although a beam sensor is used to manage the humidifier water tank, it only judges the contamination of the inner wall of the water tank, but does not judge the contamination degree of the water in the water tank.

[0004] In the existing document Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0134186, although there is a pollution measuring device for measuring the contamination level of water contained in the humidifier water tank, the pollution measuring device set on the surface of the water tank may cause measurement errors when water flows inside, and the amount of water in the water tank may also have a great influence on the measured value. Summary of the invention

[0005] Problem to be solved

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of accurately determining the contamination level of water in a water tank.

[0007] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of easily managing a water tank.

[0008] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of enhancing internal hygiene performance and eliminating inconveniences related to hygiene during use.

[0009] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of determining the contamination level of water in a water tank and providing management feedback.

[0010] The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other problems not mentioned from the following description.

[0011] Technical solutions to the problem

[0012] In order to achieve the above-mentioned problems, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention can improve the hygiene and the convenience of use by applying a sensor for sensing the state of water in the water tank.

[0013] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided with an additional flow path capable of sampling water in the water tank, thereby being able to accurately determine the degree of water contamination by minimizing the influence of the water volume on the detection.

[0014] In order to achieve the above-mentioned problems, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention can minimize detection errors by applying appropriate operation logic in detecting the water contamination level.

[0015] In order to achieve the above-mentioned problems, an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a water tank for containing water; a turbidity sensor arranged below the lower end of the water tank; a sensor water supply path for the water contained in the water tank to flow toward the turbidity sensor; and a valve for opening and closing the sensor water supply path.

[0016] In order to achieve the above-mentioned problems, an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a water tank for containing water generated or required in the process of conditioning air; a turbidity sensor arranged below the lower end of the water tank; a sensor water supply path for the water contained in the water tank to flow toward the turbidity sensor; a valve for opening and closing the sensor water supply path; a sensor drainage path for the water discharged from the turbidity sensor to flow; and a pump for allowing the water discharged from the turbidity sensor to flow toward the water tank through the sensor drainage path.

[0017] The turbidity sensor may include a chamber filled with water supplied from the water tank, a light source unit including a light source irradiating light into the chamber, and a light receiving unit receiving scattered light scattered in the chamber.

[0018] If the chamber is filled to a predetermined water level or above, the light source unit may irradiate the light.

[0019] The turbidity sensor may detect and output turbidity of water supplied from the water tank after a preset stabilization time has passed.

[0020] The valve may open the sensor water supply flow path and block the sensor water supply flow path after a preset water supply reference time has passed.

[0021] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a controller configured to determine the microbial contamination level in the water tank based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor and to perform a feedback operation corresponding to the determined microbial contamination level.

[0022] The controller may open the valve after shutting down the operation of the air conditioner.

[0023] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an ultraviolet module, and when the pollution degree is determined to be in the first range, the ultraviolet module irradiates ultraviolet rays into the inside of the water tank.

[0024] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an output module, and when the determined contamination level belongs to a second range higher than the first range, the output module displays cleaning related information corresponding to the determined contamination level.

[0025] The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a communication module, and when the determined pollution level belongs to a third range higher than the second range, the communication module automatically requests a care service in accordance with the determined pollution level.

[0026] An operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a step of causing a valve to open a sensor water supply path connecting a water tank for accommodating water generated or required in the process of conditioning air and a turbidity sensor arranged below the lower end of the water tank; a step of causing a valve to block the sensor water supply path; a step of causing the turbidity sensor to detect the turbidity of water supplied from the water tank if a stabilization time has passed; and a step of performing a feedback action based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor.

[0027] The operating method of the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a drainage step of draining water from the turbidity sensor.

[0028] The operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a step of shutting down the operation of the air conditioner before opening the sensor water supply flow path.

[0029] In the step of operating the valve to block the sensor water supply flow path, the operation state of the valve may be changed when a preset water supply reference time has passed after the valve is opened or when a predetermined amount of water or more is filled in the internal chamber of the turbidity sensor.

[0030] The step of the turbidity sensor detecting the turbidity of water supplied from the water tank may include the steps of: irradiating light into the interior of the chamber; receiving scattered light scattered in the chamber; and analyzing a pattern of the received scattered light.

[0031] In the step of executing the feedback operation, when the determined contamination level belongs to the first range, the determined contamination level may be displayed and ultraviolet rays may be irradiated into the water tank.

[0032] In the step of executing the feedback operation, when the determined contamination level belongs to a second range higher than the first range, information on the determined contamination level and information for guiding cleaning of the water tank may be displayed.

[0033] In the step of performing the feedback action, a signal may be transmitted to a server so as to transmit the cleaning guidance image of the sink to a preset device.

[0034] In the step of executing the feedback operation, when the determined contamination level belongs to a third range higher than the second range, information on the determined contamination level may be displayed, and a care service may be automatically requested in accordance with the determined contamination level.

[0035] Technical Effects

[0036] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the contamination degree of water in a sink can be accurately determined.

[0037] In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the water tank can be managed easily.

[0038] In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to enhance the internal hygiene performance and eliminate the inconvenience related to hygiene during use.

[0039] In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the pollution level of the water in the sink can be determined and management feedback can be prompted.

[0040] On the other hand, various effects other than these are directly or indirectly disclosed in the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention to be described later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 It is a conceptual diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a flow chart of an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of an air conditioner.

[0045] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a turbidity sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 7 This is a flow chart of an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figures 8 to 11 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and can be modified in various forms.

[0050] In order to explain the present invention clearly and briefly, illustration of parts not related to the explanation is omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals are used for the same or very similar parts throughout the specification.

[0051] On the other hand, the suffixes "module" and "unit" used in the following description for the components are only given for the convenience of writing the specification, and they themselves have no particularly important meaning or function. Therefore, the above-mentioned "module" and "unit" can be used interchangeably.

[0052] In addition, in this specification, the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from other components.

[0053] In addition, in this specification, "air conditioner" is a device with humidification function and dehumidification function, and may include a humidifier, a dehumidifier, an air purifier / cooling and heating device with dehumidification and / or humidification function, etc.

[0054] Figure 1 It is a conceptual diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 The air conditioner 1 of the embodiment of the present invention includes a water tank 10 for containing water. The water tank 10 contains water generated or required in the process of conditioning air. For example, the water tank 10 can store water required to increase the humidity of the air. Alternatively, the water tank 10 can contain water generated in the dehumidification process.

[0056] In addition, the air conditioner 1 includes a water tank detection module 20 for determining the contamination level of the water in the water tank 1. In order to accurately determine the contamination level of the water in the water tank 1, the water tank detection module 20 includes a turbidity sensor 25 and a sensor flow path 27.

[0057] The air conditioner 1 includes a turbidity sensor 25 disposed below the lower end portion of the water tank 10 , and the water tank 10 and the turbidity sensor 25 are connected via a sensor flow path 27 .

[0058] The sensor flow path 27 includes a sensor water supply flow path 27a for the water contained in the water tank 10 to flow to the turbidity sensor 25, and the sensor water supply flow path 27a includes an on-off valve 21 for opening and closing the sensor water supply flow path 27a. The on-off valve 21 can be opened and controlled to supply water to the turbidity sensor 25 for a predetermined time. The on-off valve 21 can open the sensor water supply flow path 27a and block the sensor water supply flow path 27a after a preset water supply reference time. In this way, a predetermined amount of water can be supplied to the turbidity sensor 25. On the other hand, the water supply reference time can be determined in advance based on the amount of water required for the turbidity sensor 25 to detect and the speed at which water flows into the turbidity sensor 25.

[0059] Since the turbidity sensor 25 is disposed below the lower end of the water tank 10, if the on-off valve 21 is controlled to open so that the sensor water supply flow path 27a is opened, the water inside the water tank 10 can be supplied to the turbidity sensor 25 along the sensor water supply flow path 27a without additional power. The turbidity sensor 25 can detect the turbidity of the water flowing in through the sensor water supply flow path 27a.

[0060] In addition, since the turbidity sensor 25 is disposed below the lower end of the water tank 10 and a predetermined amount of water can be supplied to the sensor water supply flow path 27a, the degree of contamination of the water can be determined regardless of the amount of water contained in the water tank 10. That is, by disposing the turbidity sensor 25 in the separate flow path 27a that can sample the water in the water tank and the lower side of the water tank 10, the degree of contamination of the water can be accurately determined by minimizing the influence of the amount of water on the detection.

[0061] The sensor flow path 27 also includes a sensor drainage flow path 27b for the water discharged from the turbidity sensor 25 to flow. In the air conditioner 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor drainage flow path 27b is connected to the water tank 10, and also includes a pump 23 for allowing the water discharged from the turbidity sensor 25 to flow to the water tank 10 through the sensor drainage flow path 27b. The pump 23 may include a motor and may suck the water located at the lower side toward the upper side. The pump 23 may circulate the water from the turbidity sensor 25 to the water tank 10 again. The pump 23 may be arranged inside the water tank detection module 20 or inside the water tank 10, and is connected to the sensor drainage flow path 27b. According to an embodiment, the sensor drainage flow path 27b may also discharge the water discharged from the turbidity sensor 25 to the outside.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 The air conditioner 1 may further include a controller 30 , an output module 40 , a communication module 50 , an air supply module 60 , an ultraviolet module 60 , and the like.

[0063] The output module 40 may include a display device such as a display (not shown) or a light emitting diode (LED) (not shown). For example, the output module 40 may display information such as the operating state of the air conditioner 1, the operating state related to error occurrence, or the degree of water contamination.

[0064] The output module 40 may include an audio device such as a speaker (not shown), a buzzer (not shown), etc. For example, the output module 40 may output an effect sound for the operating state of the air conditioner 1, and may output a predetermined warning sound when an error occurs.

[0065] The communication module 50 may provide an interface for communicating with other devices. For example, the communication module 50 may provide an interface for transmitting and receiving signals according to the RS-485 communication method, which is a serial communication protocol standard specification supporting a home network. For example, the communication module 50 may transmit and receive signals with at least one of the other devices in a wireless communication method such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, beacon, or Zigbee.

[0066] The ultraviolet module 60 removes bacteria or viruses by irradiating ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet module 60 may remove bacteria or viruses propagated in water stored in the water tank 10 by irradiating ultraviolet rays toward the water stored in the water tank 10.

[0067] The air supply module 70 is a module for causing external air to flow into the air conditioner 1 by forming an air flow, and may include an air supply fan (not shown) for blowing air and an air supply motor (not shown) for rotating the air supply fan.

[0068] The controller 30 may be connected to each component provided in the air conditioner 1. For example, the controller 30 may transmit and / or receive signals to and from each component provided in the air conditioner 1, and may control the overall operation of each component.

[0069] The controller 30 may include at least one processor, and thus, the included processor may be used to control the operation of the entire air conditioner 1. Here, the processor may be a common processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may also be a dedicated device such as a dedicated integrated circuit or a processor based on other hardware.

[0070] The controller 30 can perform various operations based on the data received by the sensor unit (not shown) including various sensors such as the communication module 50 and the turbidity sensor 25. In addition, the controller 30 can store the data received by the sensor unit (not shown) such as the communication module 50 and the turbidity sensor 25 in a memory (not shown).

[0071] On the other hand, a turbidity sensor 25 is provided at the lower part of the water tank 10, so that the water state such as the microorganism level and the presence or absence of odor can be determined by sensing the water state in the water tank 10. The turbidity sensor 25 can detect the turbidity of the water flowing in through the sensor water supply flow path 27a and output it to the controller 30.

[0072] The controller 30 may be controlled to determine the microbial contamination level in the water tank based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor 25, and perform a feedback action corresponding to the determined microbial contamination level. Alternatively, the turbidity sensor 25 may directly determine the microbial contamination level and transmit it to the controller 30, and the controller 30 may control other components to perform appropriate feedback actions based on the received microbial contamination level.

[0073] The controller 30 controls the output module 50 and / or the communication module 50 to identify the contamination state of the water contained in the water tank 10 and provide a cleaning reminder or information on a water replacement cycle to the user.

[0074] In addition, the controller 30 can sense in advance the odor that may occur in the water tank 10 according to the contamination degree of the water contained in the water tank 10, and start the automatic cleaning / sterilization logic based on the ultraviolet module 60 before the user notices it, or request the care service of the expert through the communication module 50. Thus, the convenience and hygiene of the use of non-professional users can be improved.

[0075] For example, the pollution level may be divided into the following three intervals, and the controller 30 may be controlled to perform a feedback action according to the interval corresponding to the detection result.

[0076] - High pollution level (third zone): Automatic call for nursing service

[0077] - Medium contamination level (second interval): Provide reminders and information for users to clean

[0078] - Low contamination level (first interval): automatic cleaning logic

[0079] The controller 30 may control the output module 40 so that the output module 40 displays information corresponding to the determined pollution level.

[0080] When the contamination degree is determined to be in the first interval, which is the interval with the lowest contamination degree, the controller 30 may control the ultraviolet module 60 to irradiate ultraviolet rays into the water tank 10. The ultraviolet module 60 may adjust the output of ultraviolet rays corresponding to the determined contamination degree. Thus, more effective sterilization / cleaning can be performed.

[0081] In addition, when the contamination level is determined to be in a second interval higher than the first interval, the controller 30 may control the output module 40 to display cleaning-related information corresponding to the determined contamination level. Here, the cleaning-related information may include at least one of a reminder of a condition requiring cleaning, a cleaning-related video, and cleaning-related link information.

[0082] When the determined contamination level belongs to a third range higher than the second range, the controller 30 may control the communication module 50 to automatically request a care service in accordance with the determined contamination level.

[0083] On the other hand, in order to improve the accuracy of water contamination determination, the controller 30 may control the humidification or dehumidification operation of the air conditioner 1 to be turned off and the on-off valve 21 to be opened.

[0084] In addition, the turbidity sensor 25 can detect and output the turbidity of the water supplied from the water tank 10 after a preset stabilization time. Immediately after the water is supplied, bubbles, eddies, etc. caused by the flow of water may be generated, which may cause the accuracy of water quality detection to decrease. Therefore, preferably, the turbidity sensor 25 performs detection after a predetermined time has passed after the water supply is completed. On the other hand, the stabilization time can be predetermined based on the amount and speed of water flowing into the turbidity sensor 25.

[0085] Figure 2 This is a flow chart of an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Reference Figure 2 The on-off valve 21 is operated to open the sensor water supply flow path 27a connecting the water tank 10 and the turbidity sensor 25 disposed below the lower end of the water tank 10 (S220). The on-off valve 21 can open or block the sensor water supply flow path 27a according to the control of the controller 30.

[0087] In order to improve the detection accuracy, it is more preferable that the controller 30 turns off the humidification or dehumidification operation of the air conditioner 1 ( S210 ) before opening the sensor water supply flow path 27 a ( S220 ).

[0088] If the preset water supply reference time (S230) has passed, the on-off valve 21 is operated to block the sensor water supply flow path 27a (S240). Here, the water supply reference time can be predetermined based on the amount of water required for the turbidity sensor 25 to detect and the speed at which water flows into the turbidity sensor 25. In the step of the valve operation to block the sensor water supply flow path (S240), the operation state of the on-off valve 21 can be changed when the preset water supply reference time has passed after the sensor water supply flow path 27a (S220) is opened, or when a predetermined amount of water or more is filled into the internal chamber of the turbidity sensor 25.

[0089] After that, if a sufficient stabilization time (S250) has passed to allow bubbles and eddies that may be generated by the internal inflow of water to disappear, the turbidity sensor 25 may detect the turbidity of the water supplied from the water tank 10 (S260). According to an embodiment, the turbidity sensor 25 may directly determine the degree of water contamination based on the turbidity detection value. Alternatively, the controller 30 may receive the turbidity detection value of the turbidity sensor 25 and determine the degree of water contamination.

[0090] On the other hand, the controller 40 may be controlled to perform a feedback action based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor 25 ( S270 ).

[0091] When the determined contamination level belongs to the first range, the controller 40 may be controlled to display the determined contamination level and the ultraviolet module 60 may irradiate ultraviolet rays into the water tank 10 .

[0092] When the contamination degree is determined to belong to a second interval higher than the first interval, the controller 40 may control the output module 40 to display the determined contamination degree information and information guiding the cleaning of the water tank 10. In addition, the communication module 50 may transmit a signal to the server according to the control of the controller 40 to transmit the cleaning guidance image of the water tank 10 to a preset device. The server may transmit the cleaning guidance image to a preset device (for example, a terminal such as a user's smartphone, the air conditioner 1), and the user may conveniently know the condition that needs to be cleaned and the cleaning method of the water tank 10 after viewing the received cleaning guidance image.

[0093] When the determined contamination level belongs to a third interval higher than the second interval, the controller 40 may control the output module 40 to display the determined contamination level information and may control the communication module 50 to automatically request a nursing service corresponding to the determined contamination level.

[0094] After the detection (S260), the turbidity sensor 25 may drain water (S280). The draining (S280) of the turbidity sensor 25 may be performed separately from the feedback action (S270). Therefore, the feedback action (S270) and the draining (S280) may be performed either first or simultaneously.

[0095] On the other hand, the turbidity sensor 25 and the water tank 10 may be formed in an integral type or separately.

[0096] The integrated type is a case where the turbidity sensor 25 is connected to the lower end of the water tank 10, and an inlet of the sensor water supply flow path 27a or a water outlet structure connected to the inlet of the sensor water supply flow path 27a may be formed at the lower end of the water tank 10. In addition, an on-off valve 21 is arranged at the sensor water supply flow path 27a. More preferably, the on-off valve 21 may be arranged at the inlet of the sensor water supply flow path 27a.

[0097] The detachable type is a case where the turbidity sensor 25 is connected to a part of the air conditioner 1 body instead of the detachable water tank 10, and a functional part fastened to the on-off valve 21 and the pump 23 may be formed at the lower end of the water tank 10. After the water tank 10 is connected to the air conditioner 1 body, the on-off valve 21 and the pump 23 functional parts may also be linked to operate.

[0098] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of an air conditioner. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The case where the water tank detection module 20 including the turbidity sensor 25 is applied to the air conditioner 1 a having the humidification function and the air purification function is exemplified.

[0099] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The water tank detection module 20 is integrally configured at the lower end of the detachable water tank 10. Therefore, if the water tank 10 is separated from the main body (eg, the placement body 140) of the air conditioner 1a, the water tank detection module 20 can also be separated from the main body.

[0100] Alternatively, the water tank detection module 20 may be formed in a separate type. In this case, even if the water tank 10 is separated from the main body of the air conditioner 1a, the water tank detection module 20 may be fixed to the main body (eg, the placement body 140) of the air conditioner 1a.

[0101] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4The air conditioner 1 a includes: a purification module 100 for purifying the air after taking in the external air; and a humidification module 200 for humidifying the air by providing moisture to the air purified by the purification module 100 .

[0102] The purification module 100 includes: a base body 130 that supports the air conditioner from the ground to form an appearance; a filter assembly 110 that is detachably provided on the base body 130 to purify air; and an air supply module 70 that is disposed inside the base body 130 to allow air to flow.

[0103] The base body 130 forms the appearance of the air conditioner. The upper part of the base body 130 is formed of a transparent material through which the user can see through the inside. An inlet 101 for sucking in external air is formed at the lower part of the base body 130. A filter setting opening 133 for inserting the filter assembly 110 is formed on one side of the base body 130. The base body 130 includes a cylindrical placement body 140, which is arranged at the upper inner part of the base body 130, and the water tank 10 is inserted into the placement body 140. A display module 160 is arranged on the upper side of the placement body 140. A space is formed between the placement body 140 and the display module 160, and the air blown by the air supply module 70 flows into the space.

[0104] The air supply module 70 causes air to flow by sucking in air through the inlet 101 and exhaling air through the outlet 107. The air supply module 70 includes an air supply fan (not shown) for blowing air and an air supply motor (not shown) for rotating the air supply fan. The air blown from the air supply fan flows toward the humidification module 200. The air supply motor can rotate the air supply fan at various speeds.

[0105] The filter assembly 110 purifies the air sucked from the suction port 101 . The filter assembly 110 is disposed at the lower portion of the air supply unit. The air purified by the filter assembly 110 flows toward the air supply module 70 .

[0106] The filter assembly 110 includes: a filter cover 113, which shields the filter setting opening 133 when the filter assembly 110 is set on the base body 130; and an electric dust collection module 15, which purifies the air by charging foreign matter (dust, etc.) in the air. The filter assembly 110 may also include a pre-filter (not shown) for filtering foreign matter in the air sucked into the suction port 101 and a deodorizing filter (not shown) for removing bad odors in the air. The filter cover 113 may be formed with an open sensing opening 113a so that external air can flow into the air state sensor (not shown) described later.

[0107] Humidification module 200: visual main body 210, detachably combined with purification module 100, formed of a transparent material through which the user can see through the inside; cylindrical water tank 10, combined with visual main body 210, storing water; water wheel unit 220, sucking water in the water tank 10 and spraying it; humidification medium (not shown), soaked in water sprayed from water wheel unit 220 and containing water, humidifying the passing air; and top cover assembly 230, arranged at the upper end of visual main body 210. The humidification medium humidifies the passing air by containing water.

[0108] The visual body 210 is disposed in the upper portion of the base body 130. The lower end of the visual body 210 is coupled to the water tank 10. The visual body 210 reflects and scatters water ejected from the water wheel unit 220.

[0109] The water tank 10 stores water. The water tank 10 is inserted into the placement body 140 of the base body 130. The upper end of the water tank 10 can be combined with the visual body 210 and separated from the purification module 100 together with the visual body 210. A space is formed between the visual body 210 and the water tank 10, and air passing between the placement body 140 and the display module 160 flows into the space by the air supply fan 24 of the air supply module 70.

[0110] The top cover assembly 230 covers the upper side of the visual main body 210. The top cover assembly 230 is detachably coupled to the visual main body 210. The top cover assembly 230 is formed with a discharge port 107 for discharging air humidified by the water wheel unit 220 to the outside. A water supply hole (not shown) for supplying falling water to the water tank 10 may be formed in the central portion of the top cover assembly 230. The user can supply water to the water tank 10 by pouring water into the central portion of the top cover assembly 230.

[0111] The operation module 240 receives instructions from the user. The operation module 240 is disposed on the top surface of the top cover assembly 230. The user inputs various instructions for controlling the operation of the air conditioner through the operation module 240.

[0112] The display module 160 displays the state of the air conditioner. The display module 160 is formed in a ring shape and is arranged inside the base body 130. The display module 160 is configured so that the user can see it through the portion formed of a transparent material on the upper part of the base body 130. The user can confirm the air condition or the current operation mode and other setting states through the display module 160. The placement body 140 is arranged below the display module 160.

[0113] The display module 160 includes: a display unit 163, which displays the state of the air conditioner with icons or text; and an illumination unit 165, which displays the state of the air conditioner with various colors of light. The display unit 163 displays the air state, operation mode or other setting state with icons or text. The illumination unit 165 indicates the air state by emitting various colors of light.

[0114] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 The case where the water tank detection module 20 including the turbidity sensor 25 is applied to the dehumidifier 1 b having a dehumidification function is exemplified.

[0115] Reference Figure 5 The dehumidifier 1b may include a housing 350 forming an exterior. The housing 350 may contain components of the dehumidifier 1b.

[0116] The housing 350 may include an air inlet (not shown) for allowing air to flow into the dehumidifier 1b. The housing 350 may include an air outlet (not shown) for allowing air to be discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier 1b.

[0117] The housing 350 is opened toward one side so that the water tank 10 as a condensed water storage container can be configured to be detachable from the dehumidifier 1b. The water tank detection module 20 can be formed at the lower side of the lower end of the water tank 10 in a separate type or an integrated type.

[0118] The water tank 10 may be formed to be open to all or part of the surface facing the evaporator 340. The water tank 10 may be formed to be open at the upper side. The upper side of the water tank 10 may include a funnel shape to effectively collect condensed water generated and dropped at the evaporator 340.

[0119] In the gravity direction, the water tank 10 may be located at the lower side of the evaporator 340, and may collect and store condensed water generated and falling from the evaporator 340. The water tank 10 may be provided to be separable.

[0120] The water tank 10 may be provided so as to be openable to one side of the dehumidifier 1b. The water tank 10 may be provided so as to be openable in a sliding and / or rotating manner.

[0121] The compressor 310 is driven by receiving power from a power supply source (an engine or a motor, etc.), and sucks and compresses the low-temperature and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the evaporator 340 and discharges it to the condenser 320 in a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous state.

[0122] Next, the condenser 320 condenses the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 310 into a medium-temperature and high-pressure liquid by exchanging heat with the external air, and discharges the liquid to the expansion valve 330 .

[0123] The expansion valve 330 can rapidly expand the medium-temperature and high-pressure liquid refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger 315 by means of a throttling effect, and transfer the refrigerant to the evaporator 340 in a low-temperature and low-pressure liquid state. At this time, the enthalpy does not change.

[0124] The evaporator 340 evaporates the refrigerant in a low-temperature and low-pressure liquid state throttled by the expansion valve 330 by heat exchange with the external air flowing into the dehumidifier 1b, thereby cooling the air by absorbing heat based on the latent heat of evaporation of the refrigerant. According to an embodiment, the dehumidifier 1b can improve the dehumidification efficiency by including a heat exchanger 315 that absorbs heat from the air flowing into the evaporator 340 and provides it to the air discharged from the evaporator 340.

[0125] On the other hand, the cooled air reaches the dew point and condenses in the evaporator 340 , and falls due to gravity and is stored in the water tank 10 .

[0126] Next, the refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator 340 and in a low-temperature and low-pressure gas state is sucked into the compressor 310 again, and the refrigeration cycle described above is performed again.

[0127] In the refrigerant circulation process as described above, the air whose temperature drops when passing through the evaporator 340 disposed upstream in the air flow direction rises again in temperature due to heat exchange with the refrigerant when passing through the condenser 320 disposed downstream, and is discharged to the outside of the dehumidifier 1b.

[0128] The dehumidifier 1b may include an air-sending fan 70. The dehumidifier 1b may include one or more air-sending fans 70. The dehumidifier 1b may include an air-sending fan 70 that sucks air through an air inlet and discharges air through an air outlet.

[0129] The air-sending fan 70 can smoothly flow air into the dehumidifier 1b. The air-sending fan 70 can smoothly discharge dehumidified air to the outside of the dehumidifier.

[0130] The air supply fan 70 can blow air to the air flow path in the dehumidifier 1b. The air flowing through the air supply fan 70 can sequentially exchange heat with the evaporator 340 and the condenser 320 while passing through the air flow path in the dehumidifier 1b, and then be discharged into the room through the air outlet of the dehumidifier 1b.

[0131] Figure 6 FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a turbidity sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] The turbidity sensor 25 according to an embodiment of the present invention detects turbidity (pollution level) by optical detection.

[0133] The optical detection methods for measuring turbidity include the transmitted light method and the scattered light method. The transmitted light method detects turbidity by irradiating light to the fluid, receiving the light that has passed through the fluid, and processing the data. The scattered light method detects turbidity by receiving the scattered light and converting it into data. This method is further subdivided according to the method of generating scattered light and the method of processing the data of the received light.

[0134] Reference Figure 6 The turbidity sensor 25 may include a light source portion 610 having a light source (eg, a laser light source) and a light receiving portion 620 that receives scattered light.

[0135] In addition, the turbidity sensor 25 may include a chamber 630 filled with water supplied from the water tank 10. The chamber 630 may be connected to the sensor water supply flow path 27a via an inlet 640, and may be connected to the sensor water discharge flow path 27b via a discharge port 650. The light source unit 610 may irradiate light into the chamber 630, and the light receiving unit 620 may receive scattered light scattered from the chamber 630.

[0136] The turbidity sensor 25 can sense the scattered light emitted by the light emitted from the visible laser light source after being reflected and dispersed by the suspended matter in the water and output it as a signal value. The scattered light increases proportionally according to the amount of particles in the fluid, but there may be deviations according to the movement of the particles or the state of the fluid (physical environments such as bubbles or eddies) or external environments such as vibration. Therefore, after the water flows into the chamber 630 and a stabilization time has passed, the turbidity sensor 25 can perform the detection process.

[0137] On the other hand, if the water flowing into the chamber 630 is filled to a predetermined level or above, the light source unit 610 may irradiate the light. More preferably, after the water flowing into the chamber 630 is filled to a predetermined level or above and the stabilization time has passed, the light source unit 610 may irradiate the light and perform the detection process.

[0138] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 8 to 11 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Reference Figure 7 , with the turbidity detection operation mode turned on (S700), the controller 30 may turn off the humidification or dehumidification operation of the air conditioner 1 (S705).

[0140] Thereafter, under the control of the controller 30, the on-off valve 21 is operated to open the sensor water supply flow path 27a connecting the water tank 10 and the turbidity sensor 25 (S710).

[0141] If the sensor water supply flow path 27a is opened (S710), water flows from the water tank 10 into the sensor water supply flow path 27a (S715) and fills the chamber 630 inside the turbidity sensor 25 (S720). Water flows into the chamber 630 at a constant flow rate per second / minute.

[0142] When the preset water supply reference time has passed, the on-off valve 21 operates to close the sensor water supply flow path 27a (S7250). Here, the water supply reference time can be determined in advance based on the amount of water required for the turbidity sensor 25 to detect and the speed at which water flows into the turbidity sensor 25.

[0143] After that, if a sufficient stabilization time has passed for bubbles and eddies that may be generated by the inflow of water to disappear ( S730 ), the turbidity sensor 25 can detect turbidity (pollution degree).

[0144] The detection step may include: a step of irradiating light into the chamber 630 (S735); a step of receiving scattered light scattered in the chamber 630 (S740); and a step of analyzing the pattern of the received scattered light (S745). The pattern analysis of scattered light may be performed by an artificial neural network trained using deep learning technology. The artificial neural network may be trained to output the turbidity (pollution) of water by analyzing the pattern of scattered light. The pre-trained artificial neural network may be mounted on the turbidity sensor 25, or on the controller 25 of the air conditioner 1.

[0145] If the stabilization time has passed (S730), the laser of the light source unit 610 is turned on to irradiate light into the chamber 630 (S735). The light receiving unit 620 can receive the scattered light and convert it into an electrical signal (S740), and the microcomputer (not shown) of the turbidity sensor 25 can detect turbidity by collecting / processing data (S745).

[0146] According to an embodiment, the turbidity sensor 25 may also directly determine the degree of water contamination based on the detection value. Alternatively, the controller 30 may receive the detection value of the turbidity sensor 25 and determine the degree of water contamination.

[0147] The drainage of the water discharged from the chamber 630 to the water tank 10 may be started by turning on the pump 23 for drainage (S750). If the water discharge to the water tank 10 is completed, the pump 23 may be turned off (S755). On the other hand, the controller 40 may be controlled to perform a feedback action including displaying the contamination degree based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor 25 (S760).

[0148] The cause of the odor in the sink is the proliferation of microorganisms and biofilms, so it is necessary to sterilize with ultraviolet light to suppress these and reduce the influx of nutrient sources.

[0149] Figure 8 It is the result of testing the odor intensity and microbial concentration produced when the product is driven under harsh conditions. Figure 8 , the odor intensity increases in proportion to the microbial concentration, and odor is produced above 300,000 CFU / ml. Fig. 9 The concentration of chemical substances that change according to the operation of the product is shown as an example. Chemical substances produced by microorganisms are mainly increased. It can be inferred that the cause of the odor in the water tank 10 is related to the metabolism of microorganisms.

[0150] Fig.10 : is a graph showing the results of an experiment to examine the effect of ultraviolet irradiation on floating microorganisms. Fig.10 , the number of microorganisms that changes with the date under the conditions of using LED to irradiate ultraviolet light and not using LED. Figure 8 As a bactericidal effect of ultraviolet rays, it can be expected to prevent / delay the occurrence of water odor by inhibiting the proliferation of microorganisms.

[0151] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the turbidity detection value and the contamination degree, and illustrates the determination of the microbial count level in the water tank and the contamination degree determination interval based on the turbidity sensor output value.

[0152] If the contamination level is "low" or lower, the automatic cleaning / sterilization logic by the ultraviolet module 60 etc. can be executed. Thus, the contamination level of the water tank 10 can be prevented from increasing in advance.

[0153] If the pollution degree is "medium", it is an interval where odor may occur, and the user's cleaning progress information can be displayed (linked to care services or transmitted cleaning videos, etc.).

[0154] In addition, if the contamination level is "high" or above, the water has been contaminated to the extent that an odor is generated and water stains may also occur, so a care service may be automatically called immediately and a reminder may be provided to the user.

[0155] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the internal hygiene performance and the convenience of use can be improved by accurately determining the contamination level of water in the sink and prompting management feedback.

[0156] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned specific embodiments. It is obvious that a person skilled in the art can implement the embodiments in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention as claimed in the claims. Such variations should not be understood separately from the technical ideas or prospects of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, wherein: include: a water tank to hold the water produced or required in the process of conditioning the air; A turbidity sensor is disposed below the lower end of the water tank; a sensor water supply flow path for the water contained in the water tank to flow toward the turbidity sensor; A valve, opening and closing the water supply path of the sensor; a sensor drain flow path through which water discharged from the turbidity sensor flows; and A pump causes water discharged from the turbidity sensor to flow toward the water tank through the sensor drainage flow path.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein: The turbidity sensor comprises: a chamber filled with water supplied from the water tank; a light source unit including a light source for irradiating light into the interior of the chamber; and The light receiving unit receives the scattered light scattered in the chamber.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein: The light source unit irradiates the light when the chamber is filled to a predetermined water level or above.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein: The turbidity sensor detects and outputs turbidity of water supplied from the water tank after a preset stabilization time has passed.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein: The valve opens the sensor water supply flow path and blocks the sensor water supply flow path after a preset water supply reference time has elapsed.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes a controller, The controller determines the microbial contamination level in the water tank based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor, and controls to perform a feedback operation according to the determined microbial contamination level.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: The controller opens the valve after shutting down the operation of the air conditioner.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein: Also includes UV module, When the determined contamination level belongs to a first range, the ultraviolet module irradiates ultraviolet rays into the water tank.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein: Also includes output modules, When the determined contamination level belongs to a second range higher than the first range, the output module displays cleaning related information corresponding to the determined contamination level.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein: Also includes a communication module, When the determined contamination level belongs to a third range higher than the second range, the communication module automatically requests a care service in accordance with the determined contamination level.

11. A method for operating an air conditioner, wherein: include: The valve operation is a step of opening a sensor water supply flow path connecting a water tank containing water generated or required in the process of conditioning air and a turbidity sensor disposed below a lower end of the water tank; The valve action is a step of blocking the water supply flow path of the sensor; if the stabilization time has elapsed, the turbidity sensor detecting turbidity of water supplied from the water tank; as well as A step of performing a feedback action based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor.

12. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein: Also included is a draining step of draining water from the turbidity sensor.

13. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein: Before opening the sensor water supply flow path, the method further includes shutting down the operation of the air conditioner.

14. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein: In the step of the valve action blocking the water supply flow path of the sensor, When a preset water supply reference time has passed after the valve is opened, or when a predetermined amount of water or more is filled in the internal chamber of the turbidity sensor, the operating state of the valve is changed.

15. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein: The step of the turbidity sensor detecting the turbidity of water supplied from the water tank comprises: a step of irradiating light into the interior of the chamber; The step of receiving scattered light scattered in the chamber; and The step of analyzing the received pattern of the scattered light.

16. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 11, wherein: In the step of performing the feedback action, When the determined contamination level belongs to the first zone, the determined contamination level is displayed, and ultraviolet rays are irradiated into the water tank.

17. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 16, wherein: In the step of performing the feedback action, When the determined contamination level belongs to a second section higher than the first section, information on the determined contamination level and information for guiding cleaning of the water tank are displayed.

18. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 17, wherein: In the step of performing the feedback action, A signal is transmitted to the server so as to transmit the cleaning guide image of the sink to a preset device.

19. The operating method of the air conditioner according to claim 16, wherein: In the step of performing the feedback action, When the determined contamination level belongs to a third zone higher than the second zone, information on the determined contamination level is displayed, and a care service is automatically requested in accordance with the determined contamination level.

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