Air cleaning device and control method thereof

Abstract

An air cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment includes a cleaning unit and a sterilization unit, in which the cleaning unit includes: a first housing including a first inlet and a first outlet, and having a first flow path therein extending from the first inlet to the first outlet; a first fan that generates an air flow passing through the first flow path; and a dust collection filter collecting dust from the airflow moving through the first flow path, and the sterilization unit includes: a second housing including a second inlet connected to the first outlet and a second outlet, and having a second flow path therein extending from the second inlet to the second outlet; a second fan that generates an air flow passing through the second flow path; and an ultraviolet light source that irradiates the airflow moving through the second flow path with ultraviolet light. The air cleaning device may operate in a simultaneous mode, two different separate modes, and a standby mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An embodiment provides an air cleaning device and a control method for the air cleaning device. Background Art

[0002] An air cleaning device is used to remove pollutants from the air. The air cleaning device can remove chemical substances that cause bad odors, etc. (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi, and fine dust) present in the inhaled air.

[0003] The air cleaning device may include an inlet for inhaling contaminated air, an outlet for discharging purified air, and a blower fan for generating an air flow.

[0004] The air cleaning device may include a filter for purifying contaminated indoor air. The air inhaled into the air cleaning device can pass through the filter to remove pollutants and purify the air into clean air, and the purified air can be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device.

[0005] In the air cleaning device, an air flow passage may be formed, and air flows from the inlet to the outlet through the air flow passage. The air flow passage can be set in various ways according to the operation purpose of the air cleaning device. The shapes and positions of the inlet and outlet can be determined in various ways considering the shape of the air flow passage. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical Means

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an air cleaning device may include a cleaning unit and a sterilization unit connected to the cleaning unit.

[0008] The cleaning unit may include: a first housing including a first inlet, a first outlet, and a first passage extending from the first inlet to the first outlet; a first fan configured to generate an air flow through the first passage; and a dust collection filter in the first passage for collecting dust from the air flow generated by the first fan and moving through the first passage, so that the cleaning unit can be operated to generate an air flow moving through the first passage and collect dust from the air flow.

[0009] The sterilization unit may include: a second housing including a second inlet connected to the first outlet, a second outlet, and a second passage extending from the second inlet to the second outlet; a second fan configured to generate an air flow through the second passage; and an ultraviolet light source for irradiating ultraviolet light to the air flow generated by the second fan and moving through the second passage, so that the sterilization unit can be operated to generate an air flow moving through the second passage and irradiate ultraviolet light to the air flow.

[0010] The air cleaning device may be configured to operate in a simultaneous mode in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate, a first separate mode and a second separate mode in which one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operates alone, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit operates.

[0011] In the simultaneous mode, both the first fan and the second fan generate an air flow such that air is inhaled through the first inlet, the air inhaled through the first inlet moves along the first channel and is purified by the dust collection filter, a first portion of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second portion of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first portion of the purified air that enters the second inlet moves along the second channel and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of controlling an air cleaning device may include measuring at least one of a dust concentration or a floating bacteria concentration in the ambient air of the air cleaning device.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may include, based on the measurement result, controlling the air cleaning device to operate in one of the following operating modes: a simultaneous mode in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate, a first separate mode and a second separate mode in which one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operates alone, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit operates.

[0014] In the simultaneous mode, both the first fan and the second fan generate an air flow such that air is inhaled through the first inlet, the air inhaled through the first inlet moves along the first channel and is purified by the dust collection filter, a first portion of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second portion of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first portion of the purified air that enters the second inlet moves along the second channel and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet. Description of the Drawings

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of some components of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 3 is an exploded view of some components of a cleaning unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 4It is an exploded view of some components of a cleaning unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5 It is a side sectional view of a cleaning unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6 It is an exploded view of some components of a sterilization unit of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 7 It is an exploded view of some components of a sterilization unit of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8 It is a diagram for explaining the air flow in a sterilization unit of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 9 It is a side sectional view of a sterilization unit of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing an intermediate duct of an air cleaning device and some of its peripheral components according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 11 It is an enlarged sectional view of some components of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 12 It is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 13 It is a sectional view for explaining the operation of an air cleaning device in a simultaneous mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 14 It is a sectional view for explaining the operation of an air cleaning device in a first separate mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 15 It is a sectional view for explaining the operation of an air cleaning device in a second separate mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 16 It is a sectional view for explaining the operation of an air cleaning device in a standby mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 17 It is a flowchart showing a control method of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 18is a flowchart showing the operation of a cleaning unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of a sterilization unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a cleaning unit according to the concentration of dust in the surrounding air in an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 21 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a sterilization unit according to the concentration of floating bacteria in the surrounding air in an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing a control method of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 23 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of an air cleaning device in a simultaneous mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 24 is a diagram showing an operation mode determined by user input of an air cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0039] As used herein, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" may refer to "a", "b", "c", "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", "a, b, and c", or variations thereof.

[0040] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals or symbols refer to the same components or elements performing substantially the same function.

[0041] It will be understood that although terms including ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another. For example, as used herein, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first element or component may be referred to as a second element or component, and similarly, a second element or component may be referred to as a first element or component. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0042] The terms used in this document are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that when the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements performing substantially the same functions.

[0043] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of some components of an air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 and

[0045] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the air cleaning device 1 can be configured to control air properties such as temperature, humidity, cleaning status, and air flow. For example, the air cleaning device 1 can improve the purity of indoor air. The air cleaning device 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can include a cleaning unit 10 and a sterilization unit 20 connected to the cleaning unit 10.

[0046] The cleaning unit 10 can purify the air introduced from the outside and discharge the purified air back to the outside. Air can be introduced into the cleaning unit 10 through a first inlet 111, and the purified air can be discharged through a first outlet 112.

[0047] The sterilization unit 20 can sterilize the introduced air and discharge the sterilized air to the outside. Air can be introduced into the sterilization unit 20 through a second inlet 211, and the sterilized air can be discharged through a second outlet 212.

[0048] The sterilization unit 20 can be disposed on the upper part of the cleaning unit 10 so as to be supported by the cleaning unit 10. In another expression, the cleaning unit 10 can be disposed below the sterilization unit 20 to support the sterilization unit 20. The sterilization unit 20 can be separately assembled from the cleaning unit 10.

[0049] The intermediate pipe 30 may be disposed between the first housing 110 of the cleaning unit 10 and the second housing 210 of the sterilization unit 20 and connect the first housing 110 to the second housing 210. The discharge passage guide 40 may guide the flow of air discharged through the first outlet 112 of the cleaning unit 10. This will be described below.

[0050] Figure 3 is an exploded view of some components of the cleaning unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 is an exploded view of some components of the cleaning unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the cleaning unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Reference Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the cleaning unit 10 may include a first housing 110 forming its appearance and a first inner frame 120 disposed to support various components within the first housing 110.

[0052] The first housing 110 in which the first passage P1 is provided may be configured to accommodate various components of the cleaning unit 10.

[0053] The first housing 110 may include a first inlet 111 and a first outlet 112. The first inlet 111 may be provided to introduce outside air of the first housing 110 into the first housing 110. The first outlet 112 may be provided to discharge the internal air of the first housing 110 to the outside of the first housing 110. The first passage P1 extending from the first inlet 111 to the first outlet 112 may be provided inside the first housing 110.

[0054] For example, the first inlet 111 may be formed at the lower part of the first housing 110. The first outlet 112 may be formed at the upper part of the first housing 110. At least a part of the first passage P1 may extend in the vertical direction (e.g., in the Z direction). Thus, the air introduced into the first housing 110 through the first inlet 111 may move upward along the first passage P1. However, the arrangement of the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 is not limited thereto, and the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112 may be formed at various positions.

[0055] The first housing 110 may include a housing body 113, a base 114, and a cover or grille assembly 116. The housing body 113, the base 114, and the grille assembly 116 may each form a part of the appearance of the cleaning unit 10.

[0056] The housing body 113 can form the side surface of the cleaning unit 10 in the horizontal direction. The housing body 113 can be arranged to cover various components of the cleaning unit 10 in the horizontal direction. The housing body 113 can connect the base 114 to the grille assembly 116.

[0057] The housing body 113 can extend in a direction parallel to the first channel P1. For example, the housing body 113 can extend longitudinally in the vertical direction.

[0058] The housing body 113 can have an approximately cylindrical shape with a space inside. However, the shape of the housing body 113 is not limited to this, and the housing body 113 can have various shapes according to the external shape of the cleaning unit 10.

[0059] The housing body 113 can be divided into multiple panels. The multiple panels can be disassembled and assembled. The housing body 113 can be easily disassembled or assembled, and it can improve the user's accessibility to the components arranged inside the housing body 113. However, the structure of the housing body 113 is not limited to this, and the housing body 113 can be integrally formed as a single configuration.

[0060] The base 114 can be arranged at the lower part of the housing body 113. The base 114 can form the bottom surface of the cleaning unit 10. When the cleaning unit 10 is placed on the ground, the base 114 can support the cleaning unit 10. The base 114 can be coupled to the lower part of the first inner frame 120.

[0061] The side surface of the base 114 can be formed in the circumferential direction of the base 114. The side surface of the base 114 can extend in the vertical direction or in a direction at an angle to the vertical direction.

[0062] The first inlet 111 can be formed in the base 114. The first inlet 111 can be formed in the side surface of the base 114. The first inlet 111 can be arranged along the circumference of the base 114. The side surface of the base 114 can have a grille shape to facilitate the entry and exit of air.

[0063] The grille assembly 116 can be arranged at the upper part of the housing body 113. The grille assembly 116 can be arranged above the first fan 150. The grille assembly 116 can form the upper surface of the cleaning unit 10. The grille assembly 116 can be formed to cover the internal space of the first housing 110 from above.

[0064] The grille assembly 116 can have a grille shape such that air can enter and exit through the first outlet 112. The grille shape can be arranged along the circumference of the upper surface of the first housing 110. However, the arrangement of the grille shape is not limited to this and can vary.

[0065] The first internal frame 120 may be disposed inside the first housing 110. The first internal frame 120 may be configured to support the grille assembly 116. The first internal frame 120 may be coupled to the inner surface of the first housing 110. The first internal frame 120 may support the inner surface of the housing body 113.

[0066] The first internal frame 120 may be arranged to support various components of the cleaning unit 10. Components of the cleaning unit 10 (e.g., the dust collection filter 140 and the first fan 150) may be supported by the first internal frame 120.

[0067] The first internal frame 120 may be covered by the first housing 110. As an example, in its lateral direction, the first internal frame 120 may be covered by the housing body 113 in the horizontal direction. In its downward direction, the first internal frame 120 may be covered by the base 114 in the vertical direction. In its upward direction, the first internal frame 120 may be covered by the grille assembly 116 in the vertical direction.

[0068] The first internal frame 120 may be divided into a plurality of frames. The plurality of frames constituting the first internal frame 120 may form an integral first internal frame 120 while being coupled to each other. Thus, the first internal frame 120 can be easily disassembled or assembled, and the user's accessibility to the internal configuration of the first internal frame 120 can be improved. However, the first internal frame 120 is not limited thereto and may be integrally formed as a single configuration.

[0069] A substantially cylindrical space may be formed inside the first internal frame 120. The dust collection filter 140, the first fan 150, etc. may be disposed in the internal space of the first internal frame 120. The first passage P1 may be provided in the internal space of the first internal frame 120. The first internal frame 120 may cover the outside of the first passage P1.

[0070] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first internal frame 120 may be formed in various shapes. As an example, the space formed inside the first internal frame 120 may have a shape other than a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, as an example, the first internal frame 120 may be arranged to support various components of the cleaning unit 10 without forming a space therein or covering the outside of the first passage P1.

[0071] The first internal frame 120 described above is only an example of a configuration arranged to support various components of the cleaning unit 10, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0072] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cleaning unit 10 may include a first fan 150 disposed inside the first housing 110. The first fan 150 may be disposed on the first passage P1. The first fan 150 may be disposed between the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 112. The first fan 150 may generate an air flow. As the first fan 150 rotates, an air flow may be generated in the direction from the first inlet 111 to the first outlet 112. Accordingly, outside air of the first housing 110 may be introduced through the first inlet 111, and the introduced air may move along the first passage P1 and may be discharged through the first outlet 112.

[0073] The first fan 150 may be configured as an axial flow type. The first fan 150 may include blades 151, a motor 152 that supplies power to the blades 151, and a fan rotating shaft 153 that is connected to the blades 151 and the motor 152 and transmits the power generated from the motor 152 to the blades 151. However, the type and configuration of the first fan 150 are not limited thereto and may be modified as needed. For example, the first fan 150 may be configured as a centrifugal type.

[0074] The first fan 150 may be disposed between the dust collecting filter 140 and the first outlet 112. When the first fan 150 is driven, the air introduced into the first inlet 111 may sequentially pass through the dust collecting filter 140 and the first fan 150 and be discharged through the first outlet 112. However, the arrangement of the first fan 150 is not limited thereto and may vary. For example, different from the drawings, the first fan 150 may be disposed between the first inlet 111 and the dust collecting filter 140.

[0075] The dust collecting filter 140 may remove or collect foreign substances in the air introduced into the first housing 110. The dust collecting filter 140 may be disposed in the first passage P1. When the first fan 150 is driven, the air introduced through the first inlet 111 may move along the first passage P1 and pass through the dust collecting filter 140. Foreign substances in the air moving along the first passage P1 may be removed by the dust collecting filter 140. The air from which foreign substances have been removed by the dust collecting filter 140 may be discharged through the first outlet 112.

[0076] The dust collecting filter 140 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first housing 110. For example, the dust collecting filter 140 may have a cylindrical structure. However, the shape of the dust collecting filter 140 is not limited thereto and may vary according to the shape of the first housing 110.

[0077] The dust collecting filter 140 may be detachably mounted on the first inner frame 120. As an example, the first inner frame 120 may include a dust collecting filter mounting opening 123 formed to allow the dust collecting filter 140 to be inserted into or withdrawn from the interior of the first inner frame 120. The interior of the first inner frame 120 may be opened through the dust collecting filter mounting opening 123.

[0078] As an example, the dust collecting filter mounting opening 123 may be formed on one side of the first inner frame 120. The dust collecting filter 140 may be inserted into and mounted on one side of the first inner frame 120, or may be withdrawn and separated from one side of the first inner frame 120.

[0079] With this configuration, the user can easily separate the dust collecting filter 140 from the first inner frame 120 or assemble it with the first inner frame 120, and can easily repair, replace, or clean the dust collecting filter 140.

[0080] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the dust collecting filter 140 may be mounted on the first inner frame 120 in various ways. Alternatively, the dust collecting filter 140 may be supported by various configurations so as to be disposed on the first passage P1.

[0081] The dust collecting filter 140 may include an electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 and a pre-filter 141.

[0082] The pre-filter 141 may be disposed in the first passage P1. The pre-filter 141 may be disposed on the passage facing the electrostatic dust collecting filter 142. The pre-filter 141 may be disposed between the first inlet 111 and the electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 in the first passage P1.

[0083] The pre-filter 141 may be configured to mainly collect foreign matters in the air inhaled into the first inlet 111. The pre-filter 141 may be configured to separate relatively large foreign matters from the air. For example, the pre-filter 141 may be configured to filter out foreign matters of a first size.

[0084] The electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 may be disposed on the first passage P1. The electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 may be disposed downstream of the first passage P1 rather than downstream of the pre-filter 141. The electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 may be configured to separate foreign matters smaller than those separated by the pre-filter 141. For example, the electrostatic dust collecting filter 142 may be configured to filter out foreign matters of a second size smaller than the first size.

[0085] The electrostatic precipitator filter 142 may be configured to collect dust by using electrostatic force. The electrostatic precipitator filter 142 may receive power from a power supply 70 which will be described below. When power is applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142, an electric field may be formed in the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. Due to the electric field formed in the electrostatic precipitator filter 142, foreign substances such as dust in the air may be collected. In addition, floating bacteria such as bacteria and viruses may be decomposed due to the electric field formed in the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. That is, the electrostatic precipitator filter 142 may perform a dust collection and sterilization function.

[0086] The electrostatic precipitator filter 142 may include a filter housing 142a forming the appearance of the electrostatic precipitator filter 142, a charger 142c, and a dust collector 142b.

[0087] The filter housing 142a may support the dust collector 142b and the charger 142c. The filter housing 142a may be supported on the first inner frame 120. At least one electrode receiving power from the power supply 70 may be disposed in the filter housing 142a. As an example, an electrode of the first inner frame 120 electrically connected to the power supply 70 may be disposed in the first inner frame 120 and may be connected to an electrode of the filter housing 142a when the dust collection filter 140 is installed in the first inner frame 120. The electrode of the first inner frame 120 or the electrode of the filter housing 142a may be configured to include a conductive metal material.

[0088] The charger 142c may be configured to charge foreign substances in the air. The charger 142c may be disposed above the pre-filter 141 to charge foreign substances in the air that have passed through the pre-filter 141. In another expression, the charger 142c may be disposed downstream of the pre-filter 141 in the first channel P1.

[0089] The dust collector 142b may be configured to collect foreign substances charged by the charger 142c. Electrodes having different polarities may be respectively connected to the charger 142c and the dust collector 142b. An electric field may be formed between the charger 142c and the dust collector 142b. Foreign substances in the air charged by the charger 142c may be charged with the same polarity as the charger 142c or the opposite polarity to the dust collector 142b. Therefore, foreign substances in the air charged by the charger 142c may move to the dust collector 142b by electricity and be collected by the dust collector 142b. In addition, floating bacteria (e.g., bacteria and viruses) floating in the air may be decomposed by such electricity.

[0090] The dust collector 142b may be provided on one side of the electrostatic dust filter 142, and the charger 142c may be provided on the other side of the electrostatic dust filter 142. The charger 142c and the dust collector 142b may be arranged to face each other. As an example, the charger 142c and the dust collector 142b may be arranged to face each other in the vertical direction. The dust collector 142b may be provided on the upper part of the electrostatic dust filter 142, and the charger 142c may be provided on the lower part of the electrostatic dust filter 142. The dust collector 142b may be provided downstream of the charger 142c in the first channel P1. The charger 142c may be provided between the dust collector 142b and the first inlet 111. The dust collector 142b may be provided between the charger 142c and the first outlet 112.

[0091] The pre-filter 141 may be provided between the first inlet 111 and the electrostatic dust filter 142. In another expression, the electrostatic dust filter 142 may be provided between the first outlet 112 and the pre-filter 141.

[0092] In the above embodiments of the present disclosure, it is described by way of example that the dust filter 140 includes the electrostatic dust filter 142, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and the dust filter 140 may further include another dust filter, or may alternatively include another dust filter. For example, the dust filter 140 may include various filters such as a HEPA filter.

[0093] The air cleaning device 1 may include a control device 50 that controls the operation of the air cleaning device 1. The control device 50 may include a first printed circuit board assembly 52. The first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be configured to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1. The first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be formed by mounting electronic components that control the operation of the air cleaning device 1 on a printed circuit board. As an example, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be a main board.

[0094] The first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be provided in the cleaning unit 10. As an example, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be supported on the base 114 of the cleaning unit 10.

[0095] The first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be electrically connected to various components provided in the cleaning unit 10 (e.g., the power supply 70 and the first fan 150). The first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be electrically connected to the sensor 90.

[0096] In addition, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 may be electrically connected to a second printed circuit board assembly 53 provided in the sterilization unit 20 described below (see Figure 6etc.). When the first printed circuit board assembly 52 is the main board, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 can be connected to the second printed circuit board assembly 53 through a wire and can send a command for controlling the operation of the sterilization unit 20 to the second printed circuit board assembly 53.

[0097] However, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 is not limited thereto and can be provided at various positions. In addition, the first printed circuit board assembly 52 can be configured in various ways to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1.

[0098] The air cleaning device 1 can include a power supply 70 that supplies power to various components of the air cleaning device 1. The power supply 70 can be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board assembly 52. The power supply 70 can be configured to apply power to various components such as the electrostatic precipitator filter 142.

[0099] The power supply 70 can be provided in the cleaning unit 10. As an example, the power supply 70 can be mounted on the first inner frame 120. The first inner frame 120 can include a power supply mount 122 and can mount the power supply 70 in various ways, such as fastening it to the power supply mount 122.

[0100] The power supply 70 can receive power from an external power source. The power supply 70 can be configured to immediately send the power supplied from the external power source to the components for driving the air cleaning device 1, or accumulate the power supplied from the external power source and then send the power to the components for driving the air cleaning device 1 when necessary.

[0101] However, the power supply 70 is not limited thereto and can be provided at various positions. In addition, the power supply 70 can be configured in various ways to supply power for driving the air cleaning device 1.

[0102] The air cleaning device 1 can include a sensor 90. The sensor 90 can be configured to sense the cleaning state of the surrounding air (e.g., the indoor place where the air cleaning device 1 is installed). As an example, the sensor 90 can sense the surrounding air through the sensor hole 113a.

[0103] The sensor 90 can include various types of sensors. For example, the sensor 90 can include a dust measurement sensor for measuring the dust concentration in the air, a carbon dioxide measurement sensor for measuring the carbon dioxide concentration in the air, a harmful gas measurement sensor for measuring the concentration of other harmful gases in the air (e.g., total volatile organic compounds (TVOC)), an organic matter measurement sensor for measuring the organic matter concentration in the air, etc.

[0104] As an example, the sensor 90 may be disposed in the cleaning unit 10. More specifically, the sensor 90 may be mounted on the first inner frame 120. The first inner frame 120 may include a sensor mount 121 and may mount the sensor 90 in various ways, such as fastening it to the sensor mount 121.

[0105] However, the sensor 90 is not limited thereto and may be disposed at various positions. Additionally, the sensor 90 may be configured in various ways to sense the state of the air to be sensed to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1.

[0106] As an example, the sensor 90 of the air cleaning device 1 may be disposed in the first passage P1. Alternatively, as an example, the sensor 90 of the air cleaning device 1 may be disposed in the second passage P2. Alternatively, as an example, the sensor 90 of the air cleaning device 1 may be disposed at a position such as the second inner frame 220 of the sterilization unit 20 described below.

[0107] The above reference Figures 3 to 5 The configuration of the cleaning unit 10 described above is only an example for illustrating the cleaning unit 10 of the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The cleaning unit 10 of the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure may be provided to include various configurations that perform the function of purifying the air flowing along the first passage P1.

[0108] Figure 6 is an exploded view of some components of the sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is an exploded view of some components of the sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a diagram for illustrating the air flow in the sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Reference Figure 1 and Figures 6 to 9 , the sterilization unit 20 may include a second housing 210, a second fan 250, and an ultraviolet light source 240.

[0110] The second housing 210 may form the appearance of the sterilization unit 20 and may include a second inlet 211 and a second outlet 212. The second housing 210 may be configured to accommodate various components of the sterilization unit 20 therein.

[0111] As an example, the second inlet 211 may be formed at the lower part of the second housing 210. As an example, the second outlet 212 may be formed at the upper part of the second housing 210. A second channel P2 extending from the second inlet 211 to the second outlet 212 may be provided inside the second housing 210. As an example, the second channel P2 may be formed in a shape extending in the vertical direction. Therefore, the air introduced into the second housing 210 through the second inlet 211 may flow upward along the second channel P2.

[0112] However, the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 are not limited thereto, and may be formed at various positions of the second housing 210. The second channel P2 provided between the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 may extend in various directions corresponding to the positions of the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212.

[0113] The second housing 210 may include a second housing body 213 and a second upper cover 214. The second housing body 213 and the second upper cover 214 may each form a part of the appearance of the sterilization unit 20.

[0114] The second housing body 213 may form the side surface of the sterilization unit 20 in the horizontal direction. The second housing body 213 may be arranged to cover various components of the sterilization unit 20 in the horizontal direction. The second housing body 213 may be connected to the first upper cover 115. The second housing body 213 may be connected to the intermediate pipe 30.

[0115] Inside the second housing 210, the second channel P2 may be formed between the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212. The second housing body 213 may cover the second channel P2 from the outside in the radial direction. In another expression, the second housing body 213 may cover the second channel P2 in the lateral direction of the second channel P2 in the horizontal direction.

[0116] The second housing body 213 may extend in a direction parallel to the second flow channel P2. As an example, the second housing body 213 may extend longitudinally in the vertical direction.

[0117] The second housing body 213 may be formed in a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. The space formed inside the second housing body 213 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the second housing body 213 is not limited thereto, and may be formed in various shapes according to the external shape of the sterilization unit 20.

[0118] The second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 may be formed in the second housing body 213. The second inlet 211 may be provided on the second housing body 213 facing the intermediate pipe 30 (see Figure 2at one end in the direction of ( ). The second outlet 212 may be provided at the other end of the second housing body 213 opposite to the second inlet 211.

[0119] As an example, the second inlet 211 may be formed at the lower end of the second housing body 213. The second outlet 212 may be formed at the upper end of the second housing body 213. However, the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212 are not limited thereto and may be formed at various positions.

[0120] The second upper cover 214 may be provided on the upper part of the second housing 210. The second upper cover 214 may form the upper surface of the sterilization unit 20. The second upper cover 214 may be formed to cover the space inside the second housing 210 from above. The second upper cover 214 may form at least a part of the upper surface of the second housing 210.

[0121] The second upper cover 214 may be provided at the second outlet 212. In another expression, the second upper cover 214 may cover a part of the second outlet 212. The second upper cover 214 may be provided to guide the airflow discharged through the second outlet 212.

[0122] The second upper cover 214 may be formed along the circumferential direction of the second outlet 212. Alternatively, the second upper cover 214 may be formed along the circumferential direction of the second housing body 213.

[0123] The second upper cover 214 may have a shape with an increasing width in the outer edge direction. For example, the second upper cover 214 may have a shape with an increasing width upward. Thus, the second upper cover 214 may guide the air discharged through the second outlet 212 to diffuse outward. In another expression, the second upper cover 214 may be formed to have a shape similar to a diffuser, but is not limited thereto, and the second upper cover 214 may be configured in various ways to form the upper surface of the sterilization unit 20.

[0124] For example, the second housing body 213 and the second upper cover 214 may be formed to be separated from each other. In contrast, as an example, the second housing body 213 and the second upper cover 214 may be integrally formed with each other.

[0125] The sterilization unit 20 may include a second outlet grille 212a provided at the second outlet 212. The second outlet grille 212a may be formed to have a grille shape such that air can enter and exit through the second outlet 212. For example, the second outlet 212 may be located on the upper side of the second passage P2, and thus, the second outlet grille 212a may be located on the upper side of the second passage P2.

[0126] The second outlet grille 212a may be coupled to the second upper cover 214. The second outlet grille 212a may support the second upper cover 214. As an example, the second outlet grille 212a may be coupled to the inner edge of the second upper cover 214. The second outlet grille 212a may be formed along the inner edge of the second upper cover 214.

[0127] However, the second outlet grille 212a is not limited thereto and may be configured in various ways such that air can be discharged through the second outlet 212. Different from the above, the second outlet 212 may be formed at various positions of the second housing 210 (e.g., on the side surface of the second housing body 213). Accordingly, the second outlet grille 212a may be disposed at various positions and may be formed in various shapes.

[0128] The above-described second housing 210 is merely an example of a configuration that forms the appearance of the sterilization unit 20 and includes the second passage P2 therein, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0129] The sterilization unit 20 may include a second inner frame 220. The second inner frame 220 may be disposed inside the second housing 210. The second inner frame 220 may be coupled to the inner surface of the second housing 210. The second inner frame 220 may support the inner surface of the second housing 210.

[0130] The second inner frame 220 may be arranged to support at least some components of the sterilization unit 20. For example, the ultraviolet light source 240, the reflection cover 270, the light-blocking member 280, etc. may be supported by the second inner frame 220. In addition, the second printed circuit board assembly 53, the control panel 80, etc. may also be supported by the second inner frame 220.

[0131] The second inner frame 220 may be covered by the second housing 210. As an example, the second inner frame 220 may be covered in the horizontal direction by the second housing body 213 in the lateral direction. The second inner frame 220 may be covered in the vertical direction by the upper cover 214 in the upward direction.

[0132] The second inner frame 220 may be divided into a plurality of frames, as Figure 6 shown, etc. The plurality of frames constituting the second inner frame 220 may form an integral second inner frame 220 while being coupled to each other. Therefore, the second inner frame 220 can be easily disassembled or assembled, and the accessibility of the user to the internal configuration of the second inner frame 220 can be improved. However, the second inner frame 220 is not limited thereto and may be integrally formed as a single configuration.

[0133] A substantially cylindrical space can be formed inside the second inner frame 220. The ultraviolet light source 240, the reflection cover 270, etc. can be disposed in the inner space of the second inner frame 220. At least a part of the second passage P2 can be disposed in the inner space of the second inner frame 220. More specifically, the irradiation area RI described below can be disposed in the inner space of the second inner frame 220.

[0134] However, the second inner frame 220 is not limited thereto, and can be formed in various shapes. For example, the space formed inside the second inner frame 220 can have a shape other than a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, as an example, the second inner frame 220 can be arranged to support various components of the sterilization unit 20 without forming a space therein or covering the outer side of the second flow passage P2.

[0135] The above-described second inner frame 220 is only an example of a configuration arranged to support various components of the sterilization unit 20, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0136] The sterilization unit 20 can include a second unit coupler 230 to be coupled to the cleaning unit 10. The second unit coupler 230 can be coupled to the first unit coupler 130 of the cleaning unit 10 such that the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 can be coupled to each other.

[0137] As an example, the second unit coupler 230 can be disposed at the lower part of the sterilization unit 20. As an example, the second unit coupler 230 can be formed in a shape extending toward the first unit coupler 130 of the cleaning unit 10.

[0138] The second unit coupler 230 can include at least one hole 230a through which the air flowing along the second passage P2 can pass.

[0139] The second unit coupler 230 can be supported on the second fan support frame 261. The second unit coupler 230 can be coupled to the second fan guard 262. However, the sterilization unit 20 is not limited thereto, and can include various configurations to be coupled to the cleaning unit 10.

[0140] The second fan 250 can be disposed inside the second housing 210. The second fan 250 can generate the second passage P2 from the second inlet 211 to the second outlet 212. The second fan 250 can be disposed between the second inlet 211 and the second outlet 212.

[0141] The second fan 250 can generate an air current. The second fan 250 can generate suction force when it rotates, and the air outside the sterilization unit 20 can be sucked into the second inlet 211 by the suction force of the second fan 250. The air sucked into the second inlet 211 can flow along the second passage P2 and be discharged through the second outlet 212.

[0142] The second fan 250 can be disposed between the ultraviolet light source 240 and the second inlet 211 which will be described below. When the second fan 250 is driven, the air sucked into the second inlet 211 can pass through the second fan 250 and the ultraviolet light source 240 in sequence and be discharged through the second outlet 212.

[0143] However, the second fan 250 is not limited thereto, and as an example, it can be disposed between the ultraviolet light source 240 and the second outlet 212. Hereinafter, as Figures 6 to 9 shown, the description will be made under the assumption that the second fan 250 is disposed between the ultraviolet light source 240 and the second inlet 211.

[0144] The second fan 250 can include a second blade 251, a second motor 252 that supplies power to the second blade 251, and a second fan rotating shaft 253 that is connected to the second blade 251 and the second motor 252 and transmits the power generated by the motor 252 to the second blade 251.

[0145] The second fan 250 can include a second fan housing 254 that supports the second blade 251, the second motor 252, and the second fan rotating shaft 253. The second blade 251, the second motor 252, and the second fan rotating shaft 253 can be accommodated in the second fan housing 254.

[0146] More specifically, the second fan housing 254 can support the second motor 252 of the second fan 250. The second motor 252 can be fixed to the second fan housing 254. The second blade 251 of the second fan 250 is arranged to be rotatable about the second fan rotating shaft 253 relative to the second motor 252, so that the second blade 251 can be arranged to be rotatable relative to the second fan housing 254. In another expression, the second blade 251 can be rotatably supported on the second fan housing 254.

[0147] The second fan housing 254 can include a fan inlet 254a and a fan discharge duct 254b. Air is introduced into the second fan housing 254 through the fan inlet 254a, and air is discharged to the outside of the second fan housing 254 through the fan discharge duct 254b. The second passage P2 can be arranged to penetrate the fan inlet 254a and the fan discharge duct 254b. As the second fan 250 is driven, the air in the second passage P2 can flow through the fan inlet 254a and the fan discharge duct 254b.

[0148] As Figures 6 to 9 shown, the direction of introducing air through the fan inlet 254a and the direction of discharging air through the fan discharge duct 254b can be different in the second fan 250. More specifically, the direction of introducing air through the fan inlet 254a can be parallel to the second fan rotation axis 253. The direction of discharging air through the fan discharge duct 254b can be perpendicular to the second fan rotation axis 253.

[0149] In another expression, the fan discharge duct 254b can extend in a direction perpendicular to the second fan rotation axis 253. The fan discharge duct 254b can be arranged to discharge air toward the ultraviolet light source 240 in a direction perpendicular to the second fan rotation axis 253. The second fan 250 can be configured as a centrifugal fan type.

[0150] A plurality of second fans 250 can be provided. The plurality of second fans 250 can have corresponding shapes to each other.

[0151] Each of the plurality of second fans 250 can be arranged to discharge air toward the ultraviolet light source 240 in a direction perpendicular to the second fan rotation axis 253. The direction of discharging air from each of the plurality of second fans 250 can be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the direction in which the second passage P2 extends (e.g., the vertical direction). At this time, the direction of discharging air from some of the plurality of second fans 250 (inclined with respect to the vertical direction) can be opposite to the direction of discharging air from other second fans among the plurality of second fans 250 (inclined with respect to the vertical direction). More specifically, in each of the plurality of second fans 250, the fan discharge duct 254b can be positioned at a certain distance from the central axis of the second passage P2, and the outer end of the fan discharge duct 254b for discharging air can have an inclined shape extending to approach the central axis of the second passage P2.

[0152] However, the shape, arrangement, number, etc. of the second fan 250 are not limited thereto, and the second fan 250 can be provided in various ways. As an example, the second fan 250 can be configured as various types of fans (e.g., axial fans). As an example, the second fan 250 can be provided as a single unit.

[0153] The above-described second fan 250 is only an example of a configuration for generating pressure so that air can flow along the second passage P2 of the sterilization unit 20, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0154] The sterilization unit 20 can include a second fan support frame 261. The second fan 250 can be supported by the second fan support frame 261.

[0155] The second fan support frame 261 may be coupled to the second inner frame 220. For example, the second fan support frame 261 may be coupled to the lower portion of the second inner frame 220.

[0156] The second fan support frame 261 may be coupled to the second unit coupler 230. As an example, the second fan support frame 261 may be coupled to the upper portion of the second unit coupler 230.

[0157] The sterilization unit 20 may include a second fan guard 262 disposed upstream of the second fan 250 in the second channel P2. The second fan guard 262 may cover one side of the second fan 250 in the direction of the second inlet 211. The second fan guard 262 may be disposed between the second fan 250 and the second inlet 211.

[0158] The second fan guard 262 may include fan guard holes 262a. The fan guard holes 262a may be formed to allow air flowing along the second channel P2 to pass therethrough. The air introduced into the second housing 210 through the second inlet 211 may pass through the fan guard holes 262a and flow toward the second fan 250.

[0159] The ultraviolet light source 240 may be disposed inside the second housing 210. The ultraviolet light source 240 may be configured to irradiate ultraviolet light into the second channel P2. The ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 may have a wavelength within a range capable of performing sterilization. Floating bacteria such as bacteria and viruses present in the air flowing along the second channel P2 may be destroyed and removed by the ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240. The ultraviolet light source 240 may perform the function of sterilizing the air flowing along the second channel P2. The ultraviolet light source 240 may be configured to irradiate ultraviolet light with various intensities of light amounts. For example, the ultraviolet light source 240 may irradiate ultraviolet light with various intensities, such as a first light amount and a second light amount stronger than the first light amount.

[0160] The sterilization unit 20 may include a reflection cover 270 that is disposed to reflect the ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240. The reflection cover 270 may cover the outside of the ultraviolet light source 240. The reflection cover 270 may be disposed in the second channel P2.

[0161] The inner surface of the reflection cover 270 facing the ultraviolet light source 240 may include a material with a high light reflectivity. As an example, a metal material with a high light reflectivity may be plated on the inner surface of the reflection cover 270. Alternatively, as an example, the reflection cover 270 may be integrally configured as a metal material plate with a high light reflectivity.

[0162] The reflection cover 270 may have a curved shape to surround the ultraviolet light source 240. As an example, the reflection cover 270 may have a plurality of flat plate shapes, and the plurality of flat plate shapes may be arranged to form a certain angle with each other and surround the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0163] The cross-sectional shape of the reflection cover 270 may have a polygonal structure. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the reflection cover 270 may be designed in consideration of the arrangement of the second printed circuit board assembly 53. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the reflection cover 270 may have an asymmetric shape in which the plate facing the second printed circuit board assembly 53 is relatively larger than other plates.

[0164] As Figure 7 shown, a plurality of reflection covers 270 may be provided. The plurality of reflection covers 270 may each cover the outside of the ultraviolet light source 240. Specifically, some of the plurality of reflection covers 270 may cover one side of the ultraviolet light source 240, and other reflection covers of the plurality of reflection covers 270 may cover the other side of the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0165] However, the number of the reflection covers 270 is not limited to a plurality, and a single reflection cover 270 may be provided. In addition, the arrangement and shape of the reflection cover 270 are not limited thereto, and the reflection cover 270 may be arranged in various ways so that the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the outside of the ultraviolet light source 240 are reflected to the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0166] The second channel P2 may include an irradiation area RI where ultraviolet rays are irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240. When the second fan 250 is driven, the air introduced into the second housing 210 through the second inlet 211 may be sterilized when it passes through the irradiation area RI, so that floating bacteria such as bacteria and viruses can be removed from the air. The irradiation area RI may be provided inside the reflection cover 270. The irradiation area RI may be surrounded by the reflection cover 270 so that its outside can be covered. As an example, the reflection cover 270 may cover the irradiation area RI in the lateral direction in the horizontal direction.

[0167] With the above configuration, the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 can be reflected by the reflection cover 270, and may not be incident on the outer area of the irradiation area RI, and the sterilization efficiency of the light source 240 can be improved.

[0168] The sterilization unit 20 may further include a light-blocking member 280 that is provided to prevent the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 from being incident on the outside of the irradiation area RI.

[0169] The light-blocking member 280 may be disposed in the second channel P2. The light-blocking member 280 may be formed to allow the air flowing along the second channel P2 to pass therethrough. In another expression, the light-blocking member 280 may be arranged to prevent the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 from being emitted to the outside of the irradiation area RI, and at the same time, allow the air outside the irradiation area RI to flow into the irradiation area RI through the light-blocking member 280, or allow the air inside the irradiation area RI to flow to the outside of the irradiation area RI through the light-blocking member 280.

[0170] As an example, the light-blocking member 280 may include a first light-blocking member 280a, a second light-blocking member 280b, and a third light-blocking member 280c. As an example, the first light-blocking member 280a may be disposed on a side of the irradiation area RI facing the second inlet 211. The second light-blocking member 280b and the third light-blocking member 280c may be disposed on the other side of the irradiation area RI facing the second outlet 212. As Figures 6 to 9 shown, a plurality of light-blocking members 280b and 280c may be disposed on the other side of the irradiation area RI facing the second outlet 212, so as to more effectively prevent the ultraviolet rays from being emitted to the outside of the air cleaning device 1 through the second outlet 212 and being introduced into the user's living space.

[0171] The first light-blocking member 280a and the second light-blocking member 280b may be arranged to support the ultraviolet light source 240. More specifically, the first light-blocking member 280a and the second light-blocking member 280b may be arranged to support both ends of the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0172] The irradiation area RI may be disposed between the first light-blocking member 280a and the second light-blocking member 280b. The first light-blocking member 280a and the second light-blocking member 280b may be disposed at both ends of the irradiation area RI. As an example, the first light-blocking member 280a and the second light-blocking member 280b may be respectively disposed at both ends of the irradiation area RI in the vertical direction.

[0173] With the above configuration, the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 can be blocked by the light-blocking member 280, and may not be incident on the outer area of the irradiation area RI, and the components of the air cleaning device 1 disposed in the outer area of the irradiation area RI can be prevented from being damaged by the ultraviolet rays. In addition, it is possible to prevent the ultraviolet rays from being emitted to the outside of the air cleaning device 1 through the second outlet 212 or the like and being introduced into the user's living space.

[0174] The air cleaning device 1 may include a control panel 80. The control panel 80 may include input buttons 81 (see Figure 12 ) and a display 82 (see Figure 12). The control panel 80 may be provided in the sterilization unit 20. As an example, the control panel 80 may be supported by the second inner frame 220. As an example, the control panel 80 may be supported by the third light-blocking member 280c.

[0175] The control panel 80 may be provided in the upper part of the sterilization unit 20. As an example, the sterilization unit 20 may be arranged to cover a part of the second outlet 212. As an example, the second outlet 212 may be covered by the second upper cover 214 in the outer edge direction.

[0176] The control device 50 of the air cleaning device 1 may include a second printed circuit board assembly 53. The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be configured to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1. The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be formed by mounting electronic components for controlling the operation of the air cleaning device 1 on a printed circuit board.

[0177] The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be provided in the sterilization unit 20. As an example, the second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be supported on the second inner frame 220 of the sterilization unit 20.

[0178] The second inner frame 220 may include a board mount 221 for mounting the second printed circuit board assembly 53. When the second inner frame 220 includes a plurality of frames, the board mount 221 may be provided on at least some of the plurality of frames constituting the second inner frame 220.

[0179] The second inner frame 220 may include a board mount cover 222 for covering the second printed circuit board assembly 53. The board mount cover 222 may be detachably coupled to the board mount 221. The board mount cover 222 may be provided to protect the second printed circuit board assembly 53.

[0180] The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be electrically connected to various components provided in the second printed circuit board assembly 53 (e.g., the control panel 80, the ultraviolet light source 240, and the second fan 250). In addition, the second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be electrically connected to the above-mentioned first printed circuit board assembly 52. The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be connected to the first printed circuit board assembly 52 by a wire and may receive a command for controlling the operation of the sterilization unit 20 from the first printed circuit board assembly 52.

[0181] The second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be configured to include a plurality of boards, as Figure 6 shown. In this case, the plurality of boards included in the second printed circuit board assembly 53 may be electrically connected to each other. However, the second printed circuit board assembly 53 is not limited thereto and may be configured to include a single board.

[0182] The features of the second printed circuit board assembly 53 are not limited thereto, and the second printed circuit board assembly 53 can be disposed at various positions. Additionally, the second printed circuit board assembly 53 can be configured in various ways to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1.

[0183] The configuration of the sterilization unit 20 described above with reference to Figures 6 to 9 is merely an example of the sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The sterilization unit 20 of the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure can be provided in various configurations that perform the function of purifying the air flowing along the second passage P2.

[0184] Figure 10 is a view showing an intermediate duct 30 of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and some of its peripheral components. Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of some components of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] Referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a connection passage CP that connects the first passage P1 to the second passage P2. The connection passage CP can be connected between the first passage P1 and the second passage P2. The connection passage CP can branch from the first passage P1 and extend toward the second passage P2.

[0186] The connection passage CP can be provided to extend from at least a part of the first outlet 112 to the second inlet 211. In another expression, the connection passage CP can be provided between at least a part of the first outlet 112 and the second inlet 211.

[0187] At least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 can be introduced into the connection passage CP. The connection passage CP can be provided such that the air discharged from the first outlet 112 and introduced into the connection passage CP flows through the second inlet 211 into the second passage P2.

[0188] The connection passage CP can be set such that when the second fan 250 is driven, the air in the first passage P1 flows into the second passage P2. As an example, when the first fan 150 and the second fan 250 are driven simultaneously, the air introduced into the first passage P1 through the first inlet 111 can be introduced into the second passage P2 through the connection passage CP. As an example, when the first fan 150 is not driven and the second fan 250 is driven, the air outside the air cleaning device 1 can be introduced into the first passage P1 through the first outlet 112 according to the suction force of the second fan 250, and the air introduced into the first passage P1 can be discharged through the first outlet 112 again and introduced into the connection passage CP. The air introduced into the connection passage CP can be introduced into the second passage P2 through the second inlet 211.

[0189] The connection passage CP can, for example, extend in a vertical direction as shown in Figure 10 from at least a part of the first outlet 112 towards the second inlet 211. At least a part of the air discharged from the first housing 110 through the first outlet 112 can flow upward along the connection passage CP and be introduced into the second housing 210 through the second inlet 211.

[0190] The first passage P1, the second passage P2, and the connection passage CP can extend in directions parallel to each other. As an example, the first passage P1, the second passage P2, and the connection passage CP can each extend in the vertical direction of the air cleaning device 1. When the first fan 150 and the second fan 250 are driven simultaneously, at least a part of the air introduced into the first housing 110 through the first inlet 111 can flow in a substantially parallel direction along the first passage P1, the second passage P2, and the connection passage CP. Therefore, the efficiency of air flow in the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 can be improved.

[0191] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the direction in which the connection passage CP extends can vary according to the arrangement of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20, the shapes of the first outlet 112 and the second inlet 211, etc.

[0192] The first housing 110 and the second housing 210 can be connected to communicate with each other through an intermediate pipe 30. The first passage P1 and the second passage P2 can be connected to communicate with each other through the intermediate pipe 30.

[0193] The connection passage CP can be formed inside the intermediate pipe 30. The intermediate pipe 30 can cover the outside of the connection passage CP. The intermediate pipe 30 can cover the connection passage CP in the horizontal direction.

[0194] The intermediate duct 30 may guide at least a portion of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 to be introduced into the second inlet 211. At least a portion of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may be guided to the second inlet 211 through the intermediate duct 30. The intermediate duct 30 may be configured such that the air introduced into the intermediate duct 30 flows into the second housing 210 along the connection channel CP.

[0195] The intermediate duct 30 may cover at least a portion of the first outlet 112 . Therefore, at least a portion of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may be introduced into the intermediate duct 30 .

[0196] The intermediate duct 30 may cover the entire second inlet 211. Therefore, the air flowing along the intermediate duct 30 may be completely introduced into the second housing 210.

[0197] The intermediate conduit 30 may be in a direction from at least a portion of the first outlet 112 toward the second inlet 211 (eg, in a direction such as Figure 10 At least a portion of the air discharged through the first outlet 112 may be introduced into the intermediate duct 30 and flow upward, and may be introduced into the second housing 210 through the second inlet 211.

[0198] Hereinafter, examples of specific shapes of the intermediate duct 30 will be described.

[0199] The intermediate pipe 30 may include a pipe body 31 and a pipe hollow portion 32 formed inside the pipe body 31. The pipe body 31 may have a shape in which the inside is penetrated by the pipe hollow portion 32.

[0200] The duct hollow portion 32 may extend in a direction from the first housing 110 toward the second housing 210. The duct hollow portion 32 may extend in a direction from the first outlet 112 toward the second inlet 211. As an example, the duct hollow portion 32 may extend in a vertical direction.

[0201] The connection channel CP may be formed in the inside of the duct body 31. The duct body 31 may cover the outside of the connection channel CP. The connection channel CP may be provided in the duct hollow portion 32.

[0202] The duct body 31 may connect the first housing 110 to the second housing 210. The duct body 31 may be connected to each of an upper portion of the first housing 110 and a lower portion of the second housing 210. The duct body 31 may cover at least a portion of the first outlet 112. The duct body 31 may cover the entire second inlet 211.

[0203] One side of the duct main body 31 may be coupled to the lower part of the second housing 210. One side of the duct main body 31 may be coupled to the discharge passage guide 40. As will be described below, the discharge passage guide 40 may be coupled to the upper part of the first housing 110. Accordingly, the duct main body 31 may be directly or indirectly connected to each of the first housing 110 and the second housing 210.

[0204] The intermediate duct 30 may be penetrated by the first unit coupler 130. The first unit coupler 130 may pass through the duct hollow portion 32 and be coupled to the second unit coupler 230. At this time, a connection passage CP may be formed between the inner circumferential surface of the duct main body 31 and the outer circumferential surface of the first unit coupler 130.

[0205] The configuration of the intermediate duct 30 described above is only an example of the intermediate duct 30 included in the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0206] Among the air discharged from the first outlet 112, at least another part of the air except for the part of the air introduced into the connection passage CP may be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device 1. In other words, at least another part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may be discharged to the outside of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20.

[0207] The air cleaning device 1 may include a discharge passage DP that allows at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 to be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device 1. When the first fan 150 is driven, at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may flow along the discharge passage DP.

[0208] The discharge passage DP may extend from at least a part of the first outlet 112. The discharge passage DP may branch from the first passage P1 and extend in the outward direction of the air cleaning device 1. The region where the discharge passage DP branches from the first passage P1 may be located near the first outlet 112.

[0209] The discharge passage DP may be located in the direction of the outer edge of the connection passage CP. In other words, the discharge passage DP may be arranged to surround the outside of the connection passage CP. Accordingly, a part of the air discharged through the first outlet 112 may flow in the inner direction along the connection passage CP, and another part of the air discharged through the first outlet 112 may flow in the outer direction along the discharge passage DP.

[0210] The discharge passage DP may extend in a direction different from the direction in which the connection passage CP extends. As an example, the connection passage CP may extend in the vertical direction, and the discharge passage DP may extend obliquely at an angle with respect to the vertical direction.

[0211] The discharge passage DP may extend in a direction away from the connection passage CP toward the direction of discharging air. In other words, the discharge passage DP may be arranged to discharge air in a direction away from the connection passage CP or the intermediate duct 30. As an example, the discharge passage DP may extend upwardly inclined toward the outer edge of the first outlet 112.

[0212] The air cleaning device 1 may include a discharge passage guide 40 arranged to guide the flow of at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112. The discharge passage guide 40 may be arranged to guide the air to flow along the discharge passage DP. The discharge passage guide 40 may guide the flow of the air such that the portion of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 that does not flow into the connection passage CP flows along the discharge passage DP.

[0213] One side of the discharge passage DP may be covered by the discharge passage guide 40. The other side of the discharge passage DP may be covered by the first housing 110 (e.g., the grille assembly or the cover 116 of the first outlet 112 or the first upper cover 115).

[0214] The discharge passage guide 40 may be arranged to face the first outlet 112 above the outside of the cleaning unit 10. The discharge passage guide 40 may cover at least a part of the first outlet 112. As an example, the discharge passage guide 40 may cover at least a part of the first outlet 112 from above.

[0215] The discharge passage guide 40 may extend in a direction corresponding to the extending direction of the first outlet 112. For example, when the first outlet 112 extends in the horizontal direction of the air cleaning device 1, the discharge passage guide 40 may also extend correspondingly, and thus, the air flowing along the discharge passage DP may flow and be discharged to the outside in the horizontal direction or a similar direction with respect to the air cleaning device 1.

[0216] The discharge passage guide 40 may be coupled to the cleaning unit 10. The discharge passage guide 40 may be coupled to the first housing 110. As an example, the discharge passage guide 40 may be coupled to the upper part of the cleaning unit 10 and the upper part of the first housing 110.

[0217] The discharge passage guide 40 may be located in the outer direction of the intermediate duct 30. In other words, the discharge passage guide 40 may be formed to surround the outside of the intermediate duct 30.

[0218] The air cleaning device 1 may include a guiding opening OP formed between the outer edge of the discharge passage guide 40 and the outer edge of the first outlet 112. Specifically, the guiding opening OP may be formed between the outer end of the discharge passage guide 40 and the outer end of the upper cover 115. The guiding opening OP may be arranged parallel to the edge of the first outlet 112.

[0219] The discharge passage DP can extend from at least a part of the first outlet 112 toward the guiding opening OP. The first outlet 112 can be provided at one end of the discharge passage DP, and the guiding opening OP can be provided at the other end of the discharge passage DP.

[0220] When the first fan 150 and the second fan 250 are driven simultaneously or only the first fan 150 is driven alone, the guiding opening OP can be used as an outlet through which the air discharged from the first outlet 112 is discharged from the discharge passage DP. When the first fan 150 is not driven and only the second fan 250 is independently driven, the guiding opening OP can be used as an inlet through which the outside air is introduced into the discharge passage DP.

[0221] Through the discharge passage guide 40, the air flowing toward the connection passage CP and the air flowing toward the discharge passage DP can be separated from each other.

[0222] Hereinafter, an example of a specific shape of the discharge passage guide 40 will be described.

[0223] The discharge passage guide 40 can include a guiding surface 41 that guides the air flowing along the discharge passage DP. The flow of at least a part of the air discharged through the first outlet 112 can be guided by the guiding surface 41.

[0224] The guiding surface 41 can be formed on one surface of the discharge passage guide 40 facing the discharge passage DP. The guiding surface 41 can be formed on one surface of the discharge passage guide 40 facing the first outlet 112.

[0225] The guiding surface 41 can extend in an inclined direction with respect to the extending direction of the first outlet 112. As an example, the guiding surface 41 can extend in an inclined direction with respect to the horizontal direction of the air cleaning device 1. As an example, the guiding surface 41 can extend upwardly inclined toward the outer edge of the discharge passage guide 40. The guiding surface 41 can have a shape inclined in a direction corresponding to the first upper cover 115.

[0226] The guiding surface 41 can be formed to have a concave shape recessed with respect to the discharge passage DP. As an example, the inclination of the guiding surface 41 with respect to the horizontal direction can gradually decrease in the direction of the outer edge of the discharge passage guide 40. As an example, the inclination of the guiding surface 41 can have a slope approaching the horizontal direction in the direction of discharging air along the discharge passage DP. In another expression, the inclination of the guiding surface 41 with respect to the horizontal direction can gradually decrease in the direction from the first outlet 112 toward the guiding opening OP. The guiding surface 41 can be formed to have a curved shape.

[0227] The discharge passage guide 40 may include a guiding hollow portion 42 formed inside the discharge passage guide 40. The discharge passage guide 40 may have a shape in which its interior is penetrated by the guiding hollow portion 42.

[0228] The guiding hollow portion 42 may extend in a direction from the first housing 110 toward the second housing 210. The guiding hollow portion 42 may extend in a direction from the first outlet 112 toward the second inlet 211. As an example, the guiding hollow portion 42 may extend in a vertical direction.

[0229] The discharge passage guide 40 may be penetrated by the intermediate pipe 30. Specifically, the guiding hollow portion 42 may be penetrated by the intermediate pipe 30. The intermediate pipe 30 may pass through the guiding hollow portion 42 and connect the first housing 110 to the second housing 210.

[0230] As described above, the first unit coupler 130 may pass through the pipe hollow portion 32 of the intermediate pipe 30 and be coupled to the second unit coupler 230. Thus, the first unit coupler 130 may be arranged to pass through both the guiding hollow portion 42 and the pipe hollow portion 32 simultaneously.

[0231] The discharge passage guide 40 may be coupled to the upper part of the first housing 110 (e.g., the cover 116 of the first outlet 112). More specifically, the discharge passage guide 40 may be fastened to the central portion 116a of the cover 116 provided at the first outlet 112 by using screws (not shown). However, the discharge passage guide 40 is not limited thereto, and may be coupled and fixed to various configurations (e.g., the first housing 110, the second housing 210, and the intermediate pipe 30) in various ways.

[0232] The configuration of the discharge passage guide 40 described above is merely an example of the guide for the discharge passage DP included in the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0233] As described above, the first housing 110 may further include an outlet cover 116 covering the first outlet 112. The air flowing along the first passage P1 may pass through the cover 116 of the first outlet 112 and be discharged from the first housing 110.

[0234] Hereinafter, an example of a specific shape of the cover 116 of the first outlet 112 will be described.

[0235] The cover 116 of the first outlet 112 may include a central portion 116a and an edge grille 116b disposed along the outer edge of the central portion 116a. The central portion 116a may cover the upper center of the first housing 110. The edge grille 116b may cover the circumferential portion of the upper side of the first housing 110. The edge grille 116b may include a penetrating shape. When the first fan 150 is driven, at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may pass through the penetrating shape of the edge grille 116b and flow into the discharge passage DP. When the first fan 150 is not driven and the second fan 250 is driven, the air outside the air cleaning device 1 may flow along the discharge passage DP, pass through the penetrating shape of the edge grille 116b, and be introduced into the first housing 110.

[0236] One side of the edge grille 116b may be covered by the discharge passage guide 40. As an example, the discharge passage guide 40 may cover at least a part of the edge grille 116b from above. The guide surface 41 of the discharge passage guide 40 may be provided to face at least a part of the edge grille 116b.

[0237] The central portion 116a may include a guide portion 116aa extending from the edge grille 116b toward the connection passage CP. The guide portion 116aa may be provided to guide air from the edge grille 116b to the connection passage CP.

[0238] The guide portion 116aa may be formed along the circumferential direction of the central portion 116a. The guide portion 116aa may be divided by a plurality of rib structures.

[0239] The guide portion 116aa may be formed to have an inclination in a direction parallel to the extending direction of the connection passage CP toward the connection passage CP. In another expression, the angle formed between the inclination direction of the guide portion 116aa and the extending direction of the connection passage CP may decrease toward the connection passage CP. As an example, the guide portion 116aa may be formed such that its inclination in the horizontal direction increases toward the connection passage CP. As an example, the guide portion 116aa may be formed to include a concave shape. The guide portion 116aa may be formed to have a curved shape.

[0240] The intermediate duct 30 may cover at least a part of the guide portion 116aa. The intermediate duct 30 may be connected to one end of the guide portion 116aa on the connection passage CP.

[0241] As an example, the central portion 116a may be integrally formed with the above-described first unit coupler 130. As an example, the first unit coupler 130 may extend upward from the central portion 116a. As an example, the guide portion 116aa may be provided in the circumferential direction of the first unit coupler 130.

[0242] With this configuration, at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 can flow along the guiding part 116aa into the connection passage CP, and at least another part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 can flow into the discharge passage DP.

[0243] The configuration of the cover 116 of the first outlet 112 described above is only an example of the cover of the first outlet 112 included in the air cleaning device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0244] In the air cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure described above, at least a part of the air from which foreign matters have been removed by the cleaning unit 10 can be transmitted to the sterilization unit 20. The air transmitted to the sterilization unit 20 is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source 240 and discharged to the outside through the second outlet 212.

[0245] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0246] Reference Figure 12 , the air cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a control device 50 for controlling the configuration of the air cleaning device 1. The control device 50 may include a processor 51. The processor 51 may be configured by the above-mentioned first printed circuit board assembly, second printed circuit board assembly, etc. As an example, the processor 51 may be electrically connected to each of the power supply 70, the first fan driver 150d, the second fan driver 250d, the electrostatic precipitator filter 142, and the ultraviolet light source 240. As an example, the processor 51 may be configured to control the operations of the power supply 70, the first fan driver 150d, the second fan driver 250d, the electrostatic precipitator filter 142, and the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0247] The control panel 80 may provide a user interface for interacting with the user. Figure 1 and Figure 7 shows a structure in which the control panel 80 is provided on the upper part of the sterilization unit 20, but the control panel 80 is not limited thereto and may be provided at various positions in the air cleaning device 1.

[0248] The control panel 80 may include input buttons 81 and / or a display 82.

[0249] The input buttons 81 may obtain user inputs related to the operation of the air cleaning device 1. For example, the input buttons 81 may include a power button for turning on / off the operation of the air cleaning device 1, a wind volume button for controlling the wind volume of the air cleaning device 1, a button for selecting the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1, etc.

[0250] The display 82 can obtain the operation information of the air cleaning device 1 from the processor 51 and display the operation information of the air cleaning device 1.

[0251] For example, the display 82 can display the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 selected by the user. The display 82 can display the air volume of the air cleaning device 1. In addition, the display 82 can display information related to the air state measured by the sensor 90 (for example, the concentration of dust, gas, organic matter, etc. in the air).

[0252] The control panel 80 can include a touch screen in which a display and a touchpad are integrated.

[0253] The sensor 90 can sense the ambient air of the air cleaning device 1 and measure the cleaning state of the ambient air. In another expression, the sensor 90 can measure the cleaning state of the indoor place where the air cleaning device 1 is installed.

[0254] The sensor 90 can send an electrical signal corresponding to the measured cleaning state to the processor 51. The processor 51 can identify the cleaning state of the ambient air of the air cleaning device 1 based on the electrical signal received from the sensor 90.

[0255] The cleaning state of the ambient air measured by the sensor 90 or information related thereto can include at least one of the dust concentration or the floating bacteria concentration. The cleaning state of the ambient air can also include the carbon dioxide concentration in the air, the concentration of other harmful gases (for example, TVOC), the concentration of organic matter in the air, etc.

[0256] For example, the sensor 90 can be configured to measure at least one of the dust concentration or the floating bacteria concentration in the ambient air of the air cleaning device 1.

[0257] As an example, a plurality of sensors 90 are provided, and some sensors 90 can measure the dust concentration in the ambient air, and other sensors 90 can measure the floating bacteria concentration in the ambient air. For example, the sensor 90 can include a single sensor having the function of measuring the dust concentration in the ambient air and the function of measuring the floating bacteria concentration in the ambient air.

[0258] As another example, the sensor 90 can include a sensor 90 that measures the dust concentration in the ambient air of the air cleaning device 1, and may not include a sensor 90 that measures the floating bacteria concentration.

[0259] The sensor 90 may be disposed in the cleaning unit 10. The sensor 90 may be disposed in the first inner frame 120 and may sense the surrounding air through a sensing hole provided in the first housing 110. However, the position of the sensor 90 is not limited thereto, and the sensor 90 may be disposed at various positions. For example, the sensor 90 may be disposed in the sterilization unit 20 to sense the surrounding air. For example, the sensor 90 may be disposed in each of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20.

[0260] The cleaning unit 10 may include a first fan driver 150d electrically connected to the first fan 150. The first fan driver 150d may receive an electrical signal related to the driving of the first fan 150 from the processor 51. The first fan driver 150d may control the driving of the first fan 150 based on the electrical signal received from the processor 51.

[0261] The sterilization unit 20 may include a second fan driver 250d electrically connected to the second fan 250. The second fan driver 250d may receive an electrical signal related to the driving of the second fan 250 from the processor 51. The second fan driver 250d may control the driving of the second fan 250 based on the electrical signal received from the processor 51.

[0262] The communication module 60 may exchange data with external devices such as a server and / or a user device under the control of the processor 51. The communication module 60 may include a wired communication module 61 that exchanges data with external devices via wire and a wireless communication module 62 that exchanges data with external devices wirelessly.

[0263] The wired communication module 61 may be connected to a wired communication network and communicate with external devices through the wired communication network. For example, the wired communication module 61 may be connected to the wired communication network through Ethernet (IEEE 802.3 technical standard) and receive data from external devices through the wired communication network.

[0264] The wireless communication module 62 may communicate wirelessly with a base station or an access point (AP), and may be connected to a wired communication network through the base station or AP. The wireless communication module 62 may also communicate with external devices connected to the wired communication network via the base station or AP. For example, the wireless communication module 62 may communicate wirelessly with an AP using WiFi™ (IEEE 802.11 technical standard), or may communicate with a base station using CDMA, WCDMA, GSM, Long Term Evolution (LTE), WiBro, etc. The wireless communication module 62 may also receive data from external devices via the base station or AP.

[0265] In addition, the wireless communication module 62 can communicate directly with an external device. For example, the wireless communication module 62 can wirelessly receive data from an external device by using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth™ (IEEE 802.15.1 technical standard), ZigBee™ (IEEE 802.15.4 technical standard), etc.

[0266] As described above, the communication module 60 can exchange data with an external device. The communication module 60 can send the data received from the external device to the processor 51, and send the data received from the processor 51 to the external device.

[0267] The processor 51 can generate a control signal to control the operation of the air cleaning device 1. The processor 51 can include a memory 51a that stores programs and data for generating the control signal. The processor 51 can include one or two or more processors 51, and the memory 51a can be provided integrally or separately with the processor 51.

[0268] The processor 51 can process data and / or signals according to the programs stored in the memory 51a, and provide a control signal to each component of the air cleaning device 1 based on the processing result.

[0269] For example, the processor 51 can provide a control signal to each of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. For example, the processor 51 can provide a control signal for driving the air cleaning device 1 to each of the first fan driver 150d of the cleaning unit 10, the electrostatic precipitator filter 140, the second fan driver 250d of the sterilization unit 20, the ultraviolet light source 240, etc. The processor 51 controls the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 simultaneously or separately, and thus, the air cleaning device 1 can provide multiple operation modes.

[0270] The air cleaning device 1 can provide a simultaneous mode 1A, separate modes 1B and 1C, and a standby mode 1D.

[0271] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the air cleaning device 1 can operate both the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. The operation of the cleaning unit 10 can represent an operation of converting air to a clean state, and the operation of the sterilization unit 20 can represent an operation of converting air to a sterilized state.

[0272] The operation of the cleaning unit 10 can include a state in which the first fan 150 rotates and a state in which power is applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. To operate the cleaning unit 10, the processor 51 can control the first fan driver 150d to rotate the first fan 150, and can control the power supply 70 to apply power to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142.

[0273] However, the operation of the cleaning unit 10 is not limited thereto and may be partially changed according to the configuration or control method of the cleaning unit 10. For example, when the cleaning unit 10 is a dust collecting filter capable of collecting dust without applying power, the operation of the cleaning unit 10 may include a state in which the first fan 150 rotates and may not be in a state of applying power to the dust collecting filter.

[0274] The operation of the sterilization unit 20 may include a state in which the second fan 250 rotates and a state in which power is applied to the ultraviolet light source 240. To operate the sterilization unit 20, the processor 51 may control the second fan driver 250d to rotate the second fan 250 and control the ultraviolet light source 240 to irradiate ultraviolet rays to the irradiation area. However, the operation of the sterilization unit 20 is not limited thereto and may be partially changed according to the configuration or control method of the sterilization unit 20.

[0275] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the individual modes 1B and 1C, the air cleaning device 1 may selectively operate one of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. The individual modes 1B and 1C may include a first individual mode 1B in which the cleaning unit 10 operates and the sterilization unit 20 does not operate, and a second individual mode 1C in which the cleaning unit 10 does not operate and the sterilization unit 20 operates.

[0276] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the first individual mode 1B, to operate the cleaning unit 10, the processor 51 may control the first fan driver 150d to rotate the first fan 150 and may control the power supply 70 to apply power to the electrostatic dust collecting filter 142.

[0277] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second individual mode 1C, to operate the sterilization unit 20, the processor 51 may control the second fan driver 250d to rotate the second fan 250 and may control the ultraviolet light source 240 to irradiate ultraviolet rays to the irradiation area.

[0278] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the air cleaning device 1 may neither operate the cleaning unit 10 nor operate the sterilization unit 20. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the communication module 60, the control panel 80, the sensor 90, etc. may operate.

[0279] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the simultaneous mode 1A. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the first individual mode 1B. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the second individual mode 1C. Figure 16It is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the standby mode 1D.

[0280] Reference Figure 13 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air cleaning device 1 can operate in the simultaneous mode 1A while the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 operate simultaneously. In the simultaneous mode 1A, the cleaning unit 10 can purify the air in the first passage P1, and the sterilization unit 20 can sterilize the air in the second passage P2.

[0281] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, air can be inhaled through the first inlet 111. The air inhaled through the first inlet 111 can move along the first passage P1 and be purified by the dust collecting filter 140.

[0282] A part of the purified air can pass through the first outlet 112 and be transmitted to the second inlet 211, and the remaining purified air can be discharged to the outside through the first outlet 112.

[0283] The air transmitted to the second inlet 211 can move along the second passage P2 and be sterilized by the ultraviolet light source 240. The sterilized air can be discharged to the outside through the second outlet 212.

[0284] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the first fan 150 and the second fan 250 can be driven simultaneously. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the electric dust collecting filter 142 and the ultraviolet light source 240 can be driven simultaneously.

[0285] The first passage P1 can be configured such that the air introduced from the first inlet 111 flows and is discharged to the first outlet 112. As an example, the air flowing along the first passage P1 can flow in the vertical direction.

[0286] The second passage P2 can be set such that the air inhaled from the second inlet 211 flows and is discharged to the second outlet 212. As an example, the air flowing along the second passage P2 can flow in the vertical direction.

[0287] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, at least a part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 can flow along the connection passage CP and be discharged to the second inlet 211. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, at least another part of the air discharged from the first outlet 112 can be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device 1 along the discharge passage DP.

[0288] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the flowrate of the air purified by the purification unit 10 and the flowrate of the air sterilized by the sterilization unit 20 can be different from each other. In another expression, the flowrate of the air flowing along the first channel P1 and the flowrate of the air flowing along the second channel P2 can be different from each other. This can vary according to the flowrate ratio of the air flowing along the connection channel CP branched from the first channel P1 and the discharge channel DP.

[0289] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, air is inhaled through the first inlet 111. The air inhaled through the first inlet 111 moves along the first channel P1 and is purified by the dust collection filter 140. A part of the purified air can pass through the first outlet 112 and be transmitted to the second inlet 211, and the remaining purified air can be discharged to the outside through the first outlet 112. A part of the purified air can be transmitted to the second inlet 211 along the connection channel CP, and the remaining purified air can be discharged to the outside through the first outlet 112 along the discharge channel DP. The air transmitted to the second inlet 211 can move along the second channel P2 and be sterilized by the ultraviolet light source 240, and the sterilized air can be discharged to the outside through the second outlet 212.

[0290] In order to improve the sterilization efficiency of the sterilization unit 20, the flowrate of the air flowing along the second channel P2 can be appropriately set in consideration of the amount and wavelength of the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240. When the flowrate of the air flowing along the second channel P2 is too fast, the air may not be sufficiently sterilized by the ultraviolet rays. On the contrary, when the flowrate of the air is too slow, the sterilization speed of the sterilization unit 20 may slow down, which may lead to deterioration of the sterilization efficiency.

[0291] In order to optimize the flowrate of the air flowing along the second channel P2, it may be necessary to appropriately set the flowrate of the air transmitted to the second channel P2 through the connection channel CP. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, in order to optimize the flowrate of the air transmitted to the second channel P2, the ratio of the flowrate of the air flowing along the connection channel CP to the flowrate of the air flowing along the discharge channel DP can be appropriately set.

[0292] For example, in order to optimize the sterilization efficiency of the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240, the flowrate of the air flowing along the second channel P2 can be set to about 0.5 cubic meters per minute (CMM). Considering the flowrate of the air and the cross-sectional area of the second channel P2, the flowrate of the air inhaled into the second channel P2 can be set.

[0293] The flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the connection passage CP can be less than the flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the discharge passage DP. For example, the flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the connection passage CP can be less than 1 / 4 of the flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the discharge passage DP. For example, the flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the connection passage CP and the flow rate of air introduced from the first passage P1 into the discharge passage DP can have a ratio of about 20 to 80.

[0294] The values such as the flow rate of the above air and the ratio of the flow rates are only examples described for the purpose of explaining the process of setting the flow rate of air in the second passage P2, the flow rate ratio of the connection passage CP and the discharge passage DP, etc. to improve the purification efficiency of the air cleaning device 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0295] The flow rate of air, the ratio of the flow rates, etc. in the air cleaning device 1 can be set in various ways according to characteristics such as the amount and wavelength of ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240, the length and cross-sectional area of the second passage P2, the shapes of the connection passage CP and the discharge passage DP, and the characteristics of each other component constituting the air cleaning device 1.

[0296] As described above, the air cleaning device 1 can achieve rapid dust removal and sterilization by operating the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 simultaneously.

[0297] Reference Figure 14 , the air cleaning device 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be operated in a first separate mode 1B for operating the cleaning unit 10 among the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the first separate mode 1B, the cleaning unit 10 can purify the air moving along the first passage P1. At this time, the sterilization unit 20 does not operate.

[0298] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the first separate mode 1B, the first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 can be driven, while the second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 can be not driven. The dust collection filter 140 of the cleaning unit 10 can be driven, while the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 can be not driven.

[0299] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the first separate mode 1B, as the first fan 150 is driven, air is inhaled through the first inlet 111. The air inhaled through the first inlet 111 can move along the first passage P1 and be purified by the dust collection filter 140. The purified air can be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device 1 through the first outlet 112.

[0300] At this time, since the second fan 250 is not driven, the air discharged from the first outlet 112 may not flow to the second channel P2 through the connection channel CP. When the second fan 250 is a centrifugal fan and is not driven, it is possible to more effectively prevent the air from flowing to the second channel P2.

[0301] With the above configuration, among the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20, the cleaning unit 10 can be selectively operated, and accordingly, the unnecessary operation of the sterilization unit 20 can be stopped, thereby reducing power consumption. In addition, the service life of the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 can be extended.

[0302] Reference Figure 15 , the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be operated in a second separate mode 1C in which the sterilization unit 20 among the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 operates. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second separate mode 1C, the sterilization unit 20 can sterilize the air moving along the second channel P2. At this time, the cleaning unit 10 does not operate.

[0303] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second separate mode 1C, the first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 may not be driven, while the second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 may be driven. The dust collecting filter 140 of the cleaning unit 10 may not be driven, while the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 may be driven.

[0304] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second separate mode 1C, as the second fan 250 is driven, air is inhaled through the second inlet 211. The air inhaled through the second inlet 211 may move along the second channel P2 and be sterilized by the ultraviolet light source 240. The air sterilized by the ultraviolet light source 240 may be discharged to the outside of the air cleaning device 1 through the second outlet 212.

[0305] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second separate mode 1C, since the second fan 250 is driven and the first fan 150 is not driven, the first channel P1 may not be formed inside the cleaning unit 10, and the outside air of the air cleaning device 1 may be introduced into the sterilization unit 20 through the second outlet 212, the connection channel CP, and the second inlet 211.

[0306] However, the air flow flowing into the sterilization unit 20 is not limited to this and may vary. For example, the sterilization unit 20 may include a separate inlet (not shown) different from the second inlet 211, and air may be introduced into the sterilization unit 20 through this separate inlet.

[0307] With the above configuration, among the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20, the sterilization unit 20 can be selectively operated, and accordingly, unnecessary operations of the cleaning unit 10 can be stopped, thereby reducing power consumption and preventing noise from occurring due to the driving of the first fan 150.

[0308] Reference Figure 16 , the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be operated in a standby mode 1D in which neither the cleaning unit 10 nor the sterilization unit 20 is operated.

[0309] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the sterilization unit 20 and the cleaning unit 10 are not operated. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 and the second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 may not be driven. The dust collecting filter 140 of the cleaning unit 10 and the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 may not be driven.

[0310] When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the sensor 90 can be operated. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the sensor 90, the control panel 80, the communication module 60, etc. can be operated. Therefore, the air cleaning device 1 can measure the cleaning state of the surrounding air through the sensor 90. The air cleaning device 1 can receive user input through the control panel 80 or the communication module 60.

[0311] With the above configuration, the air cleaning device 1 can reduce power consumption and switch to the simultaneous mode 1A, the individual modes 1B and 1C, or the standby mode 1D according to user input or the cleaning state of the surrounding air.

[0312] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing a control method of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0313] Reference Figure 17 , whether the air cleaning device 1 operates the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 can vary according to the cleaning state of the surrounding air. The cleaning state of the surrounding air may include at least one of the dust concentration or the floating bacteria concentration.

[0314] The sensor 90 can be configured to measure at least one of the dust concentration or the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air. For example, the sensor 90 can measure the dust concentration in the surrounding air and the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air. The sensor 90 can include a sensor 90 for measuring the dust concentration in the surrounding air and a sensor 90 for measuring the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air. However, the configuration of the sensor 90 is not limited thereto, and the sensor 90 can be a single sensor 90 having both the function of measuring the dust concentration in the surrounding air and the function of measuring the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air.

[0315] When the air cleaning device 1 starts operating, the sensor 90 can measure the cleaning state of the surrounding air (S1701). For example, the sensor 90 can measure the dust concentration and the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air. The processor 51 can determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 based on the measured dust concentration and the measured floating bacteria concentration. The processor 51 can determine whether to operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 based on the measured dust concentration and the measured floating bacteria concentration.

[0316] For example, the processor 51 can determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 by determining whether the measured dust concentration is in a good state and whether the measured floating bacteria concentration is in a good state. For example, the processor 51 can determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 based on the result of comparing the measured dust concentration with a predetermined first reference concentration and comparing the measured floating bacteria concentration with a predetermined second reference concentration.

[0317] For example, the processor 51 determines whether the measured dust concentration is in a good state and determines whether to operate the cleaning unit 10. The processor 51 determines whether the measured floating bacteria concentration is in a good state and determines whether to operate the sterilization unit 20.

[0318] When the measured dust concentration is in a good state and the measured floating bacteria concentration is in a good state (S1702), the processor 51 can determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the standby mode 1D (S1711). For example, when the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration and the measured floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, the processor 51 can determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the standby mode 1D. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the standby mode 1D, the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 do not operate. The first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 does not rotate, and no power is applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. The second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 does not rotate, and no power is applied to the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0319] When the measured dust concentration is not in a good state, but the measured floating bacteria concentration is in a good state (S1703), the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the first separate mode 1B (S1712). For example, when the measured floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, but the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the first separate mode 1B. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the first separate mode 1B, the cleaning unit 10 operates, and the sterilization unit 20 does not operate. The first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 rotates, and power is applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. The second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 does not rotate, and power is not applied to the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0320] When the measured dust concentration is in a good state, but the measured floating bacteria concentration is not in a good state (S1704), the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the second separate mode 1C (S1713). For example, when the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration, but the measured floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the second separate mode 1C. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the second separate mode 1C, the cleaning unit 10 does not operate, and the sterilization unit 20 operates. The first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 does not rotate, and power is not applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. The second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 rotates, and power is applied to the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0321] When the measured dust concentration is not in a good state and the measured floating bacteria concentration is not in a good state, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the simultaneous mode 1A (S1714). For example, when the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and the measured floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the simultaneous mode 1A. When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the cleaning unit 10 operates, and the sterilization unit 20 operates. The first fan 150 of the cleaning unit 10 rotates, and power is applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. The second fan 250 of the sterilization unit 20 rotates, and power is applied to the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0322] In the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of the operating conditions of the cleaning unit 10 include when the measured dust concentration is greater than a first reference concentration, and examples of the operating conditions of the sterilization unit 20 include when the measured floating bacteria concentration is greater than a second reference concentration. However, the operating conditions of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 are not necessarily limited thereto. The operating conditions of the cleaning unit 10 may also include when the measured dust concentration is equal to the first reference concentration, and the operating conditions of the sterilization unit 20 may also include when the measured floating bacteria concentration is equal to the second reference concentration.

[0323] The air cleaning device 1 may determine whether to operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 in consideration of the operating time of the cleaning unit 10 and the operating time of the sterilization unit 20 as well as the results measured by the sensor 90. Therefore, the air cleaning device 1 may determine its operation mode in consideration of the operating time of the cleaning unit 10 and the operating time of the sterilization unit 20.

[0324] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the cleaning unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the sterilization unit 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0325] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A or the first separate mode 1B, the cleaning unit 10 operates (S1801). Here, operating the cleaning unit 10 includes starting to operate the cleaning unit 10 or maintaining the operation of the cleaning unit 10.

[0326] The cleaning unit 10 may operate for at least a first predetermined initial driving time. For example, when the cleaning unit 10 starts to operate, the processor 51 determines whether the operating time of the cleaning unit 10 has elapsed the first initial driving time (S1802).

[0327] When the operating time of the cleaning unit 10 has not elapsed the first initial driving time, the processor 51 may keep the cleaning unit 10 in the operating state (S1801). When the operating time of the cleaning unit 10 has elapsed the first initial driving time, the processor 51 determines whether the measured dust concentration is in a good state (S1803). For example, when the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 keeps the cleaning unit 10 in the operating state (S1801). When the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 stops the cleaning unit 10 (S1804).

[0328] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 19When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A or the second individual mode 1C, the sterilization unit 20 can operate (S1901). Here, operating the sterilization unit 20 includes starting to operate the sterilization unit 20 or maintaining the operation of the sterilization unit 20.

[0329] The sterilization unit 20 can operate for at least a second predetermined initial driving time. For example, when the sterilization unit 20 starts to operate, the processor 51 determines whether the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has elapsed the second initial driving time (S1902).

[0330] When the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has not elapsed the second initial driving time, the processor 51 can keep the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state (S1901). When the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has elapsed the second initial driving time, the processor 51 determines whether the measured floating bacteria concentration is in a good state (S1903). For example, when the measured floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, the processor 51 keeps the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state (S1901). When the measured floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, the processor 51 stops the sterilization unit 20 (S1904).

[0331] The second initial driving time of the sterilization unit 20 can be the same as the first initial driving time of the cleaning unit 10. As another example, the second initial driving time can be different from the first initial driving time. The second initial driving time can be longer than the first initial driving time. For example, the second initial driving time can be 1.5 times or more of the first initial driving time. For example, the second initial driving time can be twice or more of the first initial driving time. For example, the second initial driving time can be 2 to 5 times of the first initial driving time.

[0332] Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the cleaning unit 10 according to the dust concentration in the surrounding air in the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 21 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the sterilization unit 20 according to the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air in the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0333] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 20 , the air cleaning device 1 can operate in the simultaneous mode 1A or the first individual mode 1B (S2001). When the cleaning unit 10 operates, the operation state of the cleaning unit 10 can change according to the measured dust concentration. For example, the processor 51 can determine whether the measured dust concentration is in a poor state, a normal state, or a good state (S2002 and S2003), and determine the operation state and whether to operate the cleaning unit 10.

[0334] For example, when the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine that the measured dust concentration is in a good state. When the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and less than the 1-2 reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine that the measured dust concentration is in a normal state. And when the measured dust concentration is greater than the 1-2 reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine that the measured dust concentration is in a bad state. The 1-2 reference concentration may be greater than the first reference concentration.

[0335] For example, with respect to dust having a particle size of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5), the first reference concentration may be 16 μg / m 3 or less, and with respect to PM2.5, the 1-2 reference concentration may be 36 μg / m 3 or greater. The 1-2 reference concentration may be less than or equal to the dust concentration measurable by the sensor 90. However, the first reference concentration and the 1-2 reference concentration are examples and may be appropriately changed according to the settings.

[0336] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured dust concentration is in a bad state, the processor 51 may operate the cleaning unit 10 in a high-speed cleaning mode (S2011). When the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be the highest. In another expression, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 when the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode may be higher than the rotation speed of the first fan 150 when the cleaning unit 10 is in a mode other than the high-speed cleaning mode. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be 75% or more of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be 85% or more of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be 95% or more of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate.

[0337] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured dust concentration is in a normal state, the processor 51 may operate the cleaning unit 10 in a low-speed cleaning mode (S2013). The rotation speed of the first fan 150 when the cleaning unit 10 is in the low-speed cleaning mode may be lower than the rotation speed of the first fan 150 when the cleaning unit 10 is in the high-speed cleaning mode. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the low-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be less than 75% of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the low-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be 50% or less of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate. When the cleaning unit 10 is in the low-speed cleaning mode, the rotation speed of the first fan 150 may be 30% or less of the maximum speed at which the first fan 150 can rotate.

[0338] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured dust concentration is in a good state, the processor 51 may stop the cleaning unit 10 (S2012). At this time, the first fan 150 may be stopped.

[0339] The processor 51 may adjust the intensity of the electrical signal applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142 and the rotation speed of the first fan 150 for efficient cleaning. For example, in order to operate the cleaning unit 10 in the high-speed cleaning mode, the processor 51 may increase the rotation speed of the first fan 150 and increase the intensity of the electrical signal applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. For example, in order to operate the cleaning unit 10 in the low-speed cleaning mode, the processor 51 may decrease the rotation speed of the first fan 150 and decrease the intensity of the electrical signal applied to the electrostatic precipitator filter 142. Here, the electrical signal may be a current or a voltage.

[0340] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 21 With reference to, the air cleaning device 1 may operate the sterilization unit 20 in the simultaneous mode 1A or the second individual mode 1C (S2101). When the sterilization unit 20 operates, the operating state of the sterilization unit 20 may vary according to the measured concentration of floating bacteria. The processor 51 may determine whether the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a bad state, a normal state, or a good state (S2102 and S2103), and determine the operating state and whether to operate the sterilization unit 20.

[0341] The processor 51 may determine that the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a good state when the measured concentration of floating bacteria is less than the second reference concentration, may determine that the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a normal state when the measured concentration of floating bacteria is greater than the second reference concentration and less than the 2-2 reference concentration, and may determine that the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a bad state when the measured concentration of floating bacteria is greater than the 2-2 reference concentration. The 2-2 reference concentration may be greater than the second reference concentration.

[0342] For example, when the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a poor state, the processor 51 may operate the sterilization unit 20 in a high-speed sterilization mode (S2111). When the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be the highest. In another expression, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 when the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode can be higher than the rotation speed of the second fan 250 when the sterilization unit 20 is in a mode other than the high-speed sterilization mode. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be 75% or more of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be 85% or more of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be 95% or more of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate.

[0343] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a normal state, the processor 51 may operate the sterilization unit 20 in a low-speed sterilization mode (S2113). The rotation speed of the second fan 250 when the sterilization unit 20 is in the low-speed sterilization mode can be lower than the rotation speed of the second fan 250 when the sterilization unit 20 is in the high-speed sterilization mode. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the low-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be less than 75% of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the low-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be 50% or less of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate. When the sterilization unit 20 is in the low-speed sterilization mode, the rotation speed of the second fan 250 can be 30% or less of the maximum speed at which the second fan 250 can rotate.

[0344] The processor 51 can adjust the intensity of the light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240 and the rotation speed of the second fan 250 for efficient sterilization. For example, in order to operate the sterilization unit 20 in the high-speed sterilization mode, the processor 51 can increase the rotation speed of the second fan 250 and increase the intensity of the light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240. For example, in order to operate the sterilization unit 20 in the low-speed sterilization mode, the processor 51 can reduce the rotation speed of the second fan 250 and reduce the intensity of the light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240.

[0345] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured concentration of floating bacteria is in a good state, the processor 51 can stop the sterilization unit 20 (S2112). At this time, the second fan 250 can be stopped.

[0346] For example, the second reference concentration can be 500 CFU / m 3 or less, and the 2-2 reference concentration can be 800 CFU / m 3Or higher. The 2-2 reference concentration may be less than or equal to the concentration of floating bacteria that can be measured by the sensor 90. However, the second reference concentration and the 2-2 reference concentration are examples and may be appropriately changed according to the settings.

[0347] In the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, an example in which the sensor 90 can measure both the dust concentration and the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air is described, but the air cleaning device 1 and its control method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, in the air cleaning device 1 and its control method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor 90 may measure the dust concentration in the surrounding air without measuring the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air. For example, the sensor 90 may be a sensor configured to measure the dust concentration. The sensor 90 may directly measure the dust concentration and may not directly measure the floating bacteria concentration.

[0348] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing a control method of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the sensor 90 measures the dust concentration in the surrounding air. Figure 23 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the air cleaning device 1 in the simultaneous mode 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0349] Reference Figure 22 , in the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cleaning state of the surrounding air may be measured by the sensor 90 (S2201). For example, the dust concentration in the surrounding air may be measured by the sensor 90.

[0350] The processor 51 may determine whether the measured dust concentration is in a good state (S2202). The processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 based on the measured dust concentration.

[0351] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured dust concentration is in a good state, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the standby mode 1D (S2212). For example, when the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the standby mode 1D. At this time, the processor 51 may stop the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20.

[0352] For example, when the processor 51 determines that the measured dust concentration is not in a good state, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the simultaneous mode 1A (S2211). For example, when the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 may determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 as the simultaneous mode 1A. At this time, the processor 51 may operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20.

[0353] Reference Figure 23 When the air cleaning device 1 is in the simultaneous mode 1A, the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 can operate (S2301). Whether to operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 can be determined by considering the operation time of at least one of the cleaning unit 10 or the sterilization unit 20 and the measured dust concentration.

[0354] For example, the processor 51 determines whether the operation time for the cleaning unit 10 to operate has passed the first initial driving time with respect to the time when the air cleaning device 1 starts to operate in the simultaneous mode 1A (S2302).

[0355] When the operation time of the cleaning unit 10 has not passed the first initial driving time, the processor 51 can keep the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state (S2301). When the operation time of the cleaning unit 10 has passed the first initial driving time, the processor 51 determines whether the measured dust concentration is in a good state (S2303). For example, the processor 51 determines whether the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration.

[0356] When the measured dust concentration is not in a good state, the processor 51 keeps the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state (S2301). For example, when the measured dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 keeps the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state. At this time, the air cleaning device 1 can be in the simultaneous mode 1A.

[0357] When the measured dust concentration is in a good state, the processor 51 stops the cleaning unit 10 (S2304). When the measured dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration, the processor 51 stops the cleaning unit 10. At this time, the air cleaning device 1 can be in the first separate mode 1B.

[0358] As described above, the processor 51 can compare the measured dust concentration with the first reference concentration and compare the operation time of the cleaning unit 10 to operate with the first initial driving time to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit 10.

[0359] Meanwhile, in the cleaning mechanism that collects dust in the cleaning unit 10, the dust contained in the air moving along the first passage P1 is filtered out while passing through the dust collection filter 140, and thus, dust can be collected relatively quickly. On the other hand, in the sterilization mechanism that sterilizes the air in the sterilization unit 20, the bacteria contained in the air moving along the second passage P2 are sterilized by being exposed to the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet light source 240, and thus, the bacteria can be sterilized relatively slowly. This is because the types of bacteria contained in the air may be different, the bacteria may require different sterilization times, and the degree to which the air passing around the ultraviolet light source 240 is exposed to the ultraviolet rays may be different.

[0360] Considering the differences between the cleaning mechanism of the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization mechanism of the sterilization unit 20, the processor 51 can set the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 to be longer than the operation time of the cleaning unit 10.

[0361] For example, the processor 51 determines whether the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has passed the second initial driving time (S2305) with respect to the time when the air cleaning device 1 starts operating in the simultaneous mode 1A.

[0362] When the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has not passed the second initial driving time, the processor 51 can stop the cleaning unit 10 and keep the sterilization unit 20 in the operating state (S2304). At this time, the air cleaning device 1 can be in the first separate mode 1B.

[0363] When the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 has passed the second initial driving time, the processor 51 stops the sterilization unit 20 (S2306). At this time, the air cleaning device 1 can be in the standby mode 1D.

[0364] As described above, the processor 51 can compare the measured dust concentration with the first reference concentration and compare the operation time of the sterilization unit 20 with the second initial driving time to determine whether to operate the sterilization unit 20.

[0365] In the embodiments of the present disclosure described in Figure 22 and Figure 23 an example is described in which the sensor 90 is configured to directly measure the dust concentration and determine the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 based on the measured dust concentration. However, although the sensor 90 directly measures the dust concentration rather than directly measuring the floating bacteria concentration, the air cleaning device 1 can determine the floating bacteria concentration based on the dust concentration measured by the sensor 90. For example, when the dust concentration measured by the sensor 90 or the value of the correction coefficient reflected as the dust concentration satisfies a specific reference range, the air cleaning device 1 can determine that the floating bacteria concentration is in a good state.

[0366] Meanwhile, in the above embodiments of the present disclosure, an example of automatically selecting or determining the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 based on the cleaning state of the surrounding air measured by the sensor 90 is described. However, in the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 can be selected or determined by a user input.

[0367] Figure 24 FIG. is a diagram showing an operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 determined by a user input according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0368] Referring to Figure 24 , the operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be selected according to a user input. The air cleaning device 1 can be configured to select the simultaneous mode 1A, the first individual mode 1B, the second individual mode 1C, or the standby mode 1D according to a user input.

[0369] The user input can be input through the input / output interface 85. The input / output interface 85 can be the control panel 80 of the air cleaning device 1 or the input / output interface 85 of an external device.

[0370] The input / output interface 85 can provide a mode setting GUI 2401 through which the user can set the operation mode. The mode setting GUI 2401 can provide menus 2402A, 2402B, 2402C, and 2402D through which the user can set the operation mode.

[0371] When the user selects the simultaneous mode 1A, the air cleaning device 1 can operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. In this case, the first fan 150 and the dust collection filter 140 of the cleaning unit 10 can operate, and the second fan 250 and the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 can operate.

[0372] When the user selects the first individual mode 1B, the air cleaning device 1 can operate the cleaning unit 10. In this case, the first fan 150 and the dust collection filter 140 of the cleaning unit 10 can operate.

[0373] When the user selects the second individual mode 1C, the air cleaning device 1 can operate the sterilization unit 20. In this case, the second fan 250 and the ultraviolet light source 240 of the sterilization unit 20 can operate.

[0374] When the user selects the standby mode 1D, the air cleaning device 1 can stop the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. In another expression, the air cleaning device 1 can not operate the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20.

[0375] The user can select an appropriate operation mode of the air cleaning device 1 according to the environment. For example, when dust removal and sterilization are required within a short period of time at a location where many people live or a large amount of sterilization is needed, the user can select the simultaneous mode 1A and select the cleaning unit 10 and the sterilization unit 20. For example, when dust removal is required but sterilization is not needed, the user can select the first separate mode 1B in which only the cleaning unit 10 operates. For example, when sterilization is required but dust removal is not needed, the user can select the second separate mode 1C in which only the sterilization unit 20 operates.

[0376] Although the present disclosure has been understood with reference to the embodiments of the present disclosure shown in the drawings and specific terms have been used to describe its embodiments, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the specific terms and the present disclosure will be construed to cover all embodiments that would typically occur to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0377] The specific embodiments described herein only correspond to the embodiments of the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. For the sake of brevity of the specification, conventional electronic configurations, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the system may be omitted. In addition, the connecting lines or connectors shown in the various drawings are intended to represent exemplary functional connections and / or physical or logical couplings between the components in the drawings, and in an actual device, the connections between the components may be represented by many alternative or additional functional relationships, physical connections, or logical connections. Additionally, an element may not necessarily be essential for the practice of the present disclosure unless the element is specifically described as "essential", "critical", etc. As used herein, terms such as "comprising", "including" are to be understood as open terms used to describe the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0378] In the context of describing the present disclosure (especially in the context of the appended claims), the use of the terms "the", "said" and similar indicators should be construed to cover both the singular and the plural. Additionally, the recitation of a range of values herein is merely intended as a shorthand method of separately referring to each individual value falling within the range (unless otherwise stated herein), and each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were separately recited herein. Finally, the operations of the methods of the disclosure described herein can be performed in any suitable order, unless explicitly specified herein or inconsistent with the context. The present disclosure is not limited to the described order of operations. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as", etc.) provided herein is only intended to describe the present disclosure in detail and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure, unless otherwise defined by the claims. Additionally, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0379] An air cleaning device and a control method thereof according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can effectively purify indoor air and reduce power consumption and noise by controlling the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit to operate simultaneously or separately.

[0380] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an air cleaning device includes: a cleaning unit including a first housing including a first inlet, a first outlet, and a first passage extending from the first inlet to the first outlet, a first fan configured to generate an air flow passing through the first passage, and a dust collection filter in the first passage for collecting dust from the air flow generated and moved through the first passage by the first fan, such that the cleaning unit is operable to generate an air flow moving through the first passage and collect dust from the air flow; and a sterilization unit including a second housing including a second inlet connected to the first outlet, a second outlet, and a second passage extending from the second inlet to the second outlet, a second fan configured to generate an air flow passing through the second passage, and an ultraviolet light source for irradiating ultraviolet light to the air flow generated and moved through the second passage by the second fan, such that the sterilization unit is operable to generate an air flow moving through the second passage and irradiate ultraviolet light to the air flow, wherein the air cleaning device is configured to be selectively operable in a simultaneous mode in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate, a first separate mode in which one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operates alone, a second separate mode, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit operates, and in the simultaneous mode, both the first fan and the second fan generate air flows such that air is inhaled through the first inlet, the air inhaled through the first inlet moves along the first passage and is purified by the dust collection filter, a first portion of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second portion of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first portion of the purified air entering the second inlet moves along the second passage and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

[0381] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the first separate mode, the cleaning unit may operate and the sterilization unit may not operate, while in the second separate mode, the cleaning unit may not operate and the sterilization unit may operate.

[0382] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air cleaning device is in the first individual mode, the first fan can generate an air flow so that air can be inhaled through the first inlet. The air inhaled through the first inlet can move along the first channel and can be purified by the dust collection filter, and the purified air can be discharged to the outside through the first outlet. When the air cleaning device is in the second individual mode, the second fan can generate an air flow so that air can be inhaled through the second inlet via the first outlet. The air inhaled through the second inlet can move along the second channel and can be sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air can be discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

[0383] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air cleaning device may further include: a sensor configured to measure the cleaning state of the surrounding air; and a processor configured to control the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit to operate simultaneously or individually based on the cleaning state of the surrounding air measured by the sensor.

[0384] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensor may be configured to sense at least one of the dust concentration and the floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air.

[0385] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor may be configured to compare the dust concentration sensed by the sensor with a first reference concentration to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit, and compare the floating bacteria concentration sensed by the sensor with a second reference concentration to determine whether to operate the sterilization unit.

[0386] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the sensed dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, the air cleaning device may be controlled to operate in the simultaneous mode. When the sensed dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, the air cleaning device may be controlled to operate in the first individual mode. When the sensed dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, the air cleaning device may be controlled to operate in the second individual mode. When the sensed dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, the air cleaning device may be controlled to operate in the standby mode.

[0387] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensor may be configured to sense the dust concentration in the surrounding air, and the processor may be configured to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit in consideration of the operation time of at least one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit and the dust concentration sensed by the sensor.

[0388] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor may be configured to compare the sensed dust concentration with a first reference concentration, and compare the operation time during which the cleaning unit has been operated with a first initial driving time to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit.

[0389] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor may be configured to compare the sensed dust concentration with a first reference concentration, and compare the operation time during which the sterilization unit has been operated with a second initial driving time to determine whether to operate the sterilization unit.

[0390] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air cleaning device is in the standby mode, the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit may not operate, and the sensor may operate.

[0391] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of controlling an air cleaning device, the air cleaning device having: a cleaning unit including a first housing including a first inlet, a first outlet, and a first passage extending from the first inlet to the first outlet, a first fan configured to generate an air flow through the first passage, and a dust collecting filter in the first passage for collecting dust from the air flow generated and moved through the first passage by the first fan, such that the cleaning unit is operable to generate an air flow moving through the first passage and collect dust from the air flow; and a sterilization unit including a second housing including a second inlet connected to the first outlet, a second outlet, and a second passage extending from the second inlet to the second outlet, a second fan configured to generate an air flow through the second passage, and an ultraviolet light source that irradiates ultraviolet light to the air flow generated and moved through the second passage by the second fan, such that the sterilization unit is operable to generate an air flow moving through the second passage and irradiate ultraviolet light to the air flow, the method including: measuring at least one of a dust concentration and a floating bacteria concentration in the ambient air of the air cleaning device; and based on the measurement result, controlling the air cleaning device to operate in one of the following operation modes: a simultaneous mode in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate, a first separate mode and a second separate mode in which one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operates alone, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit operates, wherein, in the simultaneous mode, both the first fan and the second fan generate an air flow such that air is inhaled through the first inlet, the air inhaled through the first inlet moves along the first passage and is purified by the dust collecting filter, a first portion of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second portion of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first portion of the purified air entering the second inlet moves along the second passage and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

[0392] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the first individual mode, the cleaning unit can be operated, and the sterilization unit can be not operated. In the second individual mode, the cleaning unit can be not operated, and the sterilization unit can be operated. When the air cleaning device is in the first individual mode, the first fan can generate an air flow so that air can be inhaled through the first inlet, the air inhaled through the first inlet can move along the first channel and can be purified by the dust collecting filter, and the purified air can be discharged to the outside through the first outlet. When the air cleaning device is in the second individual mode, the second fan can generate an air flow so that air can be inhaled through the second inlet via the first outlet, the air inhaled through the second inlet can move along the second channel and can be sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air can be discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

[0393] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may further include: determining whether to operate the cleaning unit by comparing the measured dust concentration with a first reference concentration, and determining whether to operate the sterilization unit by comparing the measured floating bacteria concentration with a second reference concentration, so as to determine an operation mode of the air cleaning device.

[0394] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may further include: considering the operation time of the cleaning unit and the operation time of the sterilization unit, determining an operation mode of the air cleaning device as the simultaneous mode, the first individual mode, the second individual mode, or the standby mode.

[0395] The air cleaning device and its control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure provide a simultaneous mode in which the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate simultaneously, an individual mode in which the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit are selectively operated, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit is operated, thereby reducing power consumption and noise while effectively purifying indoor air.

Claims

1. An air cleaning device (1), comprising: The cleaning unit (10) comprises: A first housing (110) comprises a first inlet (111) and a first outlet (112) and a first passage (P1) extending from the first inlet to the first outlet, a first fan (150) configured to generate an airflow through the first channel, and a dust collection filter (140) in the first channel for collecting dust from the airflow generated by the first fan and moving through the first channel, enabling the cleaning unit to operate to generate an airflow moving through the first passage and to collect dust from the airflow; and The sterilization unit (20) comprises: The second housing (210) comprises a second inlet (211) connected to the first outlet, a second outlet (212), and a second passage (P2) extending from the second inlet to the second outlet, a second fan (250) configured to generate an airflow through the second channel, and an ultraviolet light source (240) for irradiating ultraviolet light to the airflow generated by the second fan and moving through the second channel, enabling the sterilization unit to be operable to generate an airflow moving through the second passage and irradiate ultraviolet rays to the airflow, The air cleaning device is configured to be selectively operable in a simultaneous mode (1A) in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit are operated, a first separate mode and a second separate mode (1B, 1C) in which only one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit is operated, and a standby mode (1D) in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit is operated, and In the simultaneous mode (1A), the first fan and the second fan both generate airflows, so that air is sucked in through the first inlet, the air sucked in through the first inlet moves along the first channel and is purified by the dust filter, a first portion of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second portion of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first portion of the purified air that enters the second inlet moves along the second channel and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

2. The air cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein In the first single mode (1B), the cleaning unit operates and the sterilization unit does not operate, and In the second separate mode (1C), the cleaning unit does not operate, and the sterilization unit operates.

3. The air cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein When the air cleaning device is in the first single mode (1B), the first fan generates an airflow so that air is sucked in through the first inlet, the air sucked in through the first inlet moves along the first passage and is purified by the dust collection filter, and the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, and When the air cleaning device is in the second single mode (1C), the second fan generates an airflow so that air is sucked in through the second inlet via the first outlet, the air sucked in through the second inlet moves along the second passage and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

4. The air cleaning device according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising: A sensor (90) configured to measure the cleanliness of the surrounding air; as well as A processor (51) is configured to control the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit to operate simultaneously or separately based on the cleanliness status of the ambient air measured by the sensor.

5. The air cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein The sensor is configured to sense at least one of a dust concentration and a floating bacteria concentration in the surrounding air.

6. The air cleaning device according to claim 5, wherein The processor is configured to: comparing the dust concentration sensed by the sensor with a first reference concentration to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit, and The floating bacteria concentration sensed by the sensor is compared with a second reference concentration to determine whether to operate the sterilization unit.

7. The air cleaning device according to claim 6, wherein: when the sensed dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, controlling the air cleaning device to operate in the simultaneous mode, when the sensed dust concentration is greater than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, controlling the air cleaning device to operate in the first single mode, When the sensed dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is greater than the second reference concentration, controlling the air cleaning device to operate in the second single mode, and When the sensed dust concentration is less than the first reference concentration and the sensed floating bacteria concentration is less than the second reference concentration, the air cleaning device is controlled to operate in the standby mode.

8. The air cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein The sensor is configured to sense dust concentration in the surrounding air, and The processor is configured to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit in consideration of an operation time of at least one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit and a dust concentration sensed by the sensor.

9. The air cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein The processor is configured to compare the sensed dust concentration with a first reference concentration, and compare an operation time for which the cleaning unit has been operated with a first initial driving time to determine whether to operate the cleaning unit.

10. The air cleaning device according to claim 9, wherein The processor is configured to compare the sensed dust concentration with the first reference concentration, and compare an operation time that the sterilization unit has been operated with a second initial driving time to determine whether to operate the sterilization unit.

11. The air cleaning device according to claim 4 or 8, wherein When the air cleaning device is in the standby mode, the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit do not operate, and the sensor operates.

12. A method for controlling an air cleaning device, the air cleaning device comprising: a cleaning unit, comprising a first housing including a first inlet and a first outlet and a first channel extending from the first inlet to the first outlet, a first fan configured to generate an airflow through the first channel, and a dust collecting filter in the first channel for collecting dust from the airflow generated by the first fan and moving through the first channel, so that the cleaning unit can be operated to generate an airflow moving through the first channel and collect dust from the airflow; and a sterilizing unit, comprising a second housing including a second inlet connected to the first outlet, a second outlet and a second channel extending from the second inlet to the second outlet, a second fan configured to generate an airflow through the second channel, and an ultraviolet light source for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the airflow generated by the second fan and moving through the second channel, so that the sterilizing unit can be operated to generate an airflow moving through the second channel and irradiate ultraviolet rays to the airflow, the method comprising: measuring at least one of dust concentration and floating bacteria concentration in the air surrounding the air cleaning device; as well as Based on the measurement result, the air cleaning device is controlled to operate in one of the following operation modes: a simultaneous mode in which both the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operate, a first single mode and a second single mode in which only one of the cleaning unit and the sterilization unit operates, and a standby mode in which neither the cleaning unit nor the sterilization unit operates, Wherein, in the simultaneous mode, the first fan and the second fan both generate airflows, so that air is sucked in through the first inlet, the air sucked in through the first inlet moves along the first channel and is purified by the dust filter, a first part of the purified air passes through the first outlet and enters the second inlet, a second part of the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, the first part of the purified air entering the second inlet moves along the second channel and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein In the first separate mode, the cleaning unit operates and the sterilization unit does not operate, In the second separate mode, the cleaning unit does not operate, and the sterilization unit operates, When the air cleaning device is in the first single mode, the first fan generates an airflow so that air is sucked in through the first inlet, the air sucked in through the first inlet moves along the first passage and is purified by the dust collecting filter, and the purified air is discharged to the outside through the first outlet, and When the air cleaning device is in the second separate mode, the second fan generates an airflow so that air is sucked in through the second inlet via the first outlet, the air sucked in through the second inlet moves along the second channel and is sterilized by the ultraviolet light source, and the sterilized air is discharged to the outside through the second outlet.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising: The one operating mode of the air cleaning device is determined by: determining whether to operate the cleaning unit by comparing the measured dust concentration with a first reference concentration, and Whether to operate the sterilization unit is determined by comparing the measured floating bacteria concentration with a second reference concentration.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising: The one operation mode of the air cleaning device is determined to be the simultaneous mode, the first individual mode, the second individual mode, or the standby mode in consideration of an operation time of the cleaning unit and an operation time of the sterilization unit.

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