Air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

An air conditioner and a control method thereof are provided. The air conditioner includes: a housing including a base; a first heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a second heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with indoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for a heat exchange operation performed by the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; a first fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger; a drainage device configured to move condensed water condensed on the second heat exchanger inside the housing and collected in the substrate to the first heat exchanger; and a controller comprising at least one processor comprising processing circuitry, the at least one processor being individually and / or collectively configured to: based on a stop of operation of the compressor, determine whether the operation of the compressor is stopped; the drainage device is controlled to move condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on an operation time of the compressor, and the first fan is controlled to move air during the drainage time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, refrigeration, or heating in an air-conditioned space, and refers to a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0003] An air conditioner can use a refrigeration cycle to cool or heat a space. An air conditioner can include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and pipes. A refrigerant can circulate through the compressor, the condenser, the expansion device, and the evaporator along the pipes.

[0004] Air conditioners can be classified into split air conditioners and integrated air conditioners. A split air conditioner can include an indoor unit installed indoors and an outdoor unit installed outdoors. In an integrated air conditioner, both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit can be installed in a single housing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical Problem

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof, the air conditioner including an improved structure capable of automatically removing water collected in a housing.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof, the air conditioner including an improved structure capable of effectively removing water collected in a housing.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof, the air conditioner including an improved structure capable of effectively removing water collected in the housing after termination of operation.

[0009] Additional aspects of the present disclosure will be partially set forth in the following description, and partially will be obvious from the description, or can be learned through the practice of the present disclosure.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes: a housing including a base; a first heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a second heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with indoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for a heat exchange operation performed by the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; a first fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger; a drainage device configured to move condensed water that condenses on the second heat exchanger inside the housing and is collected in the base to the first heat exchanger; and a controller including at least one processor, the at least one processor including processing circuitry, wherein the at least one processor is configured, individually and / or jointly, based on a stop of operation of the compressor, to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on an operation time of the compressor, and to control the first fan to move air during the drainage time.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner including: a first heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with indoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant; and a housing configured to accommodate the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor, the control method may include: stopping an operation of the compressor; operating a drainage device to move condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on an operation time of the compressor; and operating a first fan to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger during the drainage time.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes: a housing including a base; an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for a cooling operation; an outdoor fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the outdoor heat exchanger; a drainage device disposed inside the housing to move water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger; and a controller including at least one processor, the at least one processor including processing circuitry, the at least one processor is configured, individually and / or jointly, to control operations of the compressor, the outdoor fan, and the drainage device. Based on a start of the cooling operation, the at least one processor of the controller is configured, individually and / or jointly, to: control the drainage device to move the water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger; based on a stop of the cooling operation, control the drainage device to move the water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on a period during which the cooling operation is performed, and control the outdoor fan to move air during the drainage time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an air conditioning system according to various embodiments;

[0015] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an air conditioner as viewed from one direction according to various embodiments;

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an air conditioner as viewed from another direction according to various embodiments;

[0017] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0018] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0019] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0020] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0021] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0022] Figure 9 is a view showing a rear view of a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0023] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0024] Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0025] Figure 12 is a view showing the state of operation of a drainage device in an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0026] Figure 13 is a view showing the state of air flow when driving a first fan in an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0027] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing an example of a drainage device in an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0028] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0029] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0030] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0031] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0032] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0033] Figure 20 is a flowchart of an example method of continuing to control an air conditioner according to various embodiments based on Figure 19 ;

[0034] Figure 21 is a flowchart of an example method of continuing to control an air conditioner according to various embodiments based on Figure 19 ;

[0035] Figure 22 is a table showing an example of the drainage time determined according to each condition in an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0036] Figure 23 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of the configuration of an air conditioner including a water level sensor according to various embodiments;

[0037] Figure 24 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0038] Figure 25 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0039] Figure 26 is a graph showing the changes over time of the power input to a compressor, a first fan, and a drainage device and the electrical signal output by a water level sensor when the remaining water level is not detected by the water level sensor in an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0040] Figure 27 is a graph showing the changes over time of the power input to a compressor, a first fan, and a drainage device and the electrical signal output by a water level sensor when the remaining water level detected by the water level sensor is greater than or equal to a first water level in an air conditioner according to various embodiments; and

[0041] Figure 28is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Detailed Description

[0042] The various example embodiments and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technology disclosed herein to a particular form, but rather the disclosure should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0043] When describing the drawings, like reference numerals may be used to designate like elements.

[0044] Unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0045] The terms “A or B,” “at least one of A or / and B,” or “one or more of A or / and B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, or / and C,” or “one or more of A, B, or / and C,” etc. may include any combination or all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] The term “and / or” includes multiple combinations of related items or any one of the multiple related items.

[0047] The terms “component,” “module,” or “assembly” may be implemented in hardware or software. In various embodiments, multiple “components,” “modules,” and “assemblies” may be implemented as a single component, or a single “component,” “module,” or “assembly” may include multiple components.

[0048] In this disclosure, expressions such as “first,” “second,” “the first,” “the second,” etc. may be used only to distinguish an element from other elements, but are not limited to another aspect of the element (e.g., importance or order).

[0049] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element connected to the second element.

[0050] In this disclosure, terms such as “comprising / including,” “having,” etc. are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more of features, elements, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0051] When an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “contacting” another element, this includes not only the case where the element is directly connected, coupled, supported, or contacting, but also the case where the element is indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or contacting through a third element.

[0052] Throughout this disclosure, when an element is “on” another element, this includes not only the case where the element is in contact with the other element, but also the case where there is another element between the two elements.

[0053] An air conditioner according to various embodiments may refer to a device that performs functions such as purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as an “indoor space”), particularly a device having at least one of these functions.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the air conditioner may include a heat pump device for performing a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates through a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be embedded in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, which includes a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may also be divided and embedded in a plurality of housings forming a single air conditioner, which includes a wall-mounted air conditioner, a floor-standing air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0055] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be arranged such that a single outdoor unit and a single indoor unit are connected by a refrigerant pipe. The air conditioner may be arranged such that a single outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units by a refrigerant pipe. The air conditioner may be arranged such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected by a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0056] The outdoor unit may be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner may be received through an input interface provided in the outdoor unit or the indoor unit. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to a user input.

[0057] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0058] The outdoor heat exchanger can be configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air through the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, when the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can radiate heat to the outdoor air. When the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the outdoor air.

[0059] The indoor unit can be installed indoors. For example, according to the arrangement method of the indoor unit, the air conditioner can be classified into a ceiling-mounted indoor unit, a floor-standing indoor unit, a wall-mounted indoor unit, etc. For example, according to the method of discharging air, the ceiling-mounted indoor unit can be classified into a four-way indoor unit, a two-way indoor unit, a single-way indoor unit, a duct-type indoor unit, etc.

[0060] As described above, the indoor heat exchanger can be configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the indoor air through the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, when the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The indoor space can be cooled by blowing the indoor air cooled by the cooled indoor heat exchanger. When the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can radiate heat to the indoor air. The indoor space can be heated by blowing the indoor air heated by the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger.

[0061] In other words, the air conditioner can perform a cooling or heating function through the phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner can include a compressor for compressing the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in the refrigerant gas through the inlet and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the outlet. The compressor can be provided inside the outdoor unit.

[0062] Through the refrigerant pipeline, the refrigerant can sequentially circulate through the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the indoor heat exchanger, or sequentially circulate through the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0063] For example, in an air conditioner, when a single outdoor unit and a single indoor unit are directly connected by a refrigerant pipeline, the refrigerant can circulate between the single outdoor unit and the single indoor unit through the refrigerant pipeline.

[0064] For example, in an air conditioner, when a single outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units by a refrigerant pipeline, the refrigerant can flow from the single outdoor unit to the multiple indoor units through the branch refrigerant pipeline. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, through separate refrigerant pipelines, each of the multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit.

[0065] Each of the plurality of indoor units can operate independently according to an operation mode set by a user. In other words, some of the plurality of indoor units can operate in a cooling mode, while other indoor units of the plurality of indoor units can operate in a heating mode. The refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit in a high-pressure state or a low-pressure state, discharged, and circulated to the outdoor unit along a circulation path specified by a flow path switching valve to be described in more detail below.

[0066] For example, in an air conditioner, when two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected by a plurality of refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the plurality of outdoor units can be combined and flow through one refrigerant pipe, and then be separated again at a certain point and introduced into the plurality of indoor units.

[0067] According to the driving load based on the operation amount of the plurality of indoor units, all of the plurality of outdoor units can be driven, or at least some of the plurality of outdoor units may not be driven. Through the flow path switching valve, the refrigerant can be set to be introduced and circulated to the selectively driven outdoor unit. The air conditioner may include an expansion device for reducing the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device can be provided inside the indoor unit or the outdoor unit, or inside both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

[0068] The expansion device can utilize the throttling effect to reduce the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device can include an orifice configured to reduce the cross-sectional area of the flow path. The temperature and pressure of the refrigerant passing through the orifice can be reduced.

[0069] For example, the expansion device can be implemented as an electronic expansion valve configured to adjust the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the valve in a partially open state to the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the valve in a fully open state). According to the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of the refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be adjusted.

[0070] The air conditioner may further include a flow path switching valve provided on the refrigerant circulation path. The flow path switching valve can include a four-way valve. The flow path switching valve can determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the operation mode of the indoor unit (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow path switching valve can be connected to the outlet of the compressor.

[0071] The air conditioner can include a receiver. The receiver can be connected to the inlet of the compressor. The low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger can flow into the receiver.

[0072] When introducing a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas, the accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas and supply the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0073] The outdoor fan can be disposed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan can blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0074] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner can include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit can be set as an ambient sensor. The outdoor unit sensor can be disposed at a certain position inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor can include: a temperature sensor configured to detect the air temperature around the outdoor unit; a humidity sensor configured to detect the air humidity around the outdoor unit; a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect the refrigerant temperature in the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit; or a refrigerant pressure sensor configured to detect the refrigerant pressure in the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0075] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner can include an outdoor unit communication circuit. The outdoor unit communication circuit can be configured to receive a control signal from the indoor unit controller of the air conditioner, which will be described later. Based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication circuit, the outdoor unit can control the operation of the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, the flow path switching valve, the accumulator, or the outdoor fan. The outdoor unit can send the sensed values detected by the outdoor unit sensor to the indoor unit controller through the outdoor unit communication circuit.

[0076] The outdoor unit communication circuit can include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0077] The indoor unit of the air conditioner can include: a housing; a blower configured to circulate air inside or outside the housing; and an indoor heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the air introduced into the housing.

[0078] The housing can include an inlet. Indoor air can flow into the housing through the inlet.

[0079] The indoor unit of the air conditioner can include a filter that is provided to filter foreign matters in the air introduced into the housing through the inlet.

[0080] The housing can include an outlet. The air flowing inside the housing can be discharged to the outside of the housing through the outlet.

[0081] An air flow guide can be provided in the housing of the indoor unit, and the air flow guide is configured to guide the direction of the air discharged through the outlet. For example, the air flow guide can include vanes located in the outlet. For example, the air flow guide can include an auxiliary fan for adjusting the discharged air flow, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the air flow guide can be omitted.

[0082] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower disposed on the flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet can be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit.

[0083] The blower can include an indoor fan and a fan motor. For example, the indoor fan can include an axial flow fan, a mixed flow fan, a cross flow fan, and a centrifugal fan.

[0084] The indoor heat exchanger can be disposed between the blower and the outlet or between the inlet and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger can absorb heat from the air introduced through the inlet or transfer heat to the air introduced through the inlet. The indoor heat exchanger can include: heat exchange tubes through which a refrigerant flows; and heat exchanger fins that are in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer area.

[0085] The indoor unit of the air conditioner can include a drain pan provided below the indoor heat exchanger for collecting the condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensed water contained in the drain pan can be discharged to the outside through a drain hose. The drain pan can be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0086] The indoor unit of the air conditioner can include an input interface. The input interface can include any type of user input device, including but not limited to, for example, buttons, switches, touchscreens, and / or touch pads. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, cooling / heating / dehumidifying / air cleaning operation mode setting, outlet selection setting, and / or air volume setting) through the input interface.

[0087] The input interface can be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface can be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller can be installed at a specific location (e.g., a part of the wall) in the indoor space. The user can input setting data related to the operation of the air conditioner by manipulating the wired remote controller. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller can be sent to the input interface. In addition, the input interface can include an infrared sensor. The user can use a wireless remote controller to remotely input setting data for the operation of the air conditioner. The setting data received through the wireless remote controller can be sent to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0088] In addition, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command can be obtained through the microphone. The microphone can convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and send the electrical signal to the indoor unit controller. The indoor unit controller can control the components of the air conditioner to perform functions corresponding to the user's voice command. The setting data obtained through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, cooling / heating / dehumidifying / air cleaning operation mode setting, outlet selection setting, and / or air volume setting) can be sent to the indoor unit controller to be described later. For example, the setting data obtained through the input interface can be sent to the outside, i.e., the outdoor unit or the server, through the indoor unit communication circuit to be described later.

[0089] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module can be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0090] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include indoor unit sensors. The indoor unit sensors may be environmental sensors provided inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensors may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors provided in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensors may include a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the refrigerant passing through the refrigerant pipe of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensors may include a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature at the inlet, middle part, and / or outlet of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0091] For example, each piece of environmental information detected by the indoor unit sensors can be sent to the indoor unit controller to be described later, or sent to the outside through the indoor unit communication circuit to be described later.

[0092] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication circuit. The indoor unit communication circuit may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module. The indoor unit communication circuit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication circuit. The outdoor unit communication circuit may also include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

[0093] The short-range wireless communication module may include various communication circuits, including, for example, a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a Near Field Communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a Microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but not limited thereto.

[0094] The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module including various communication circuits that perform various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include a mobile communication circuit. The mobile communication circuit transmits and receives radio signals to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0095] The indoor unit communication circuit may communicate with external devices such as a server, a mobile device, and other household appliances through an access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect the local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or the user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or the user device may be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit controller configured to control components of the indoor unit, including a blower. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit controller configured to control components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor. The indoor unit controller may communicate with the outdoor unit controller through the indoor unit communication circuit and the outdoor unit communication circuit. The outdoor unit communication circuit may send a control signal generated by the outdoor unit controller to the indoor unit communication circuit, or send a control signal sent from the indoor unit communication circuit to the outdoor unit controller. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may perform two-way communication. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may send and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0096] The outdoor unit controller may be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and may control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit controller may adjust the frequency of the compressor and control a flow path switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit controller may adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit controller may generate a control signal for adjusting the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit controller, the refrigerant may circulate along a refrigerant circulation loop including a compressor, a flow path switching valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion valve, and an indoor heat exchanger.

[0097] Various temperature sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can send electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit controller and / or the indoor unit controller. For example, humidity sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can send electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidities to the outdoor unit controller and / or the indoor unit controller respectively.

[0098] The indoor unit controller can obtain user input from a user device including a mobile device through the indoor unit communication circuit, or directly obtain user input through an input interface or a remote controller. The indoor unit controller can control components of the indoor unit, including the blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit controller can send information related to the received user input to the outdoor unit controller of the outdoor unit.

[0099] The outdoor unit controller can control components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on the information related to the user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when receiving a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode such as a cooling operation, a heating operation, a fan operation, a defrosting operation, or a dehumidifying operation from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit controller can control the components of the outdoor unit to perform the operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0100] The outdoor unit controller and the indoor unit controller can respectively include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit controller can include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit controller can include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0101] The memory can memorize / store various types of information required for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs required for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling operation, heating operation, dehumidifying operation, and / or defrosting operation of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memories for temporarily storing data, such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM). Additionally, the memory can include non-volatile memories for long-term storing data, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0102] The processor may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used herein (including in the claims), the term "processor" may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor may be individually and / or jointly configured in a distributed manner to perform the various functions described herein. As used herein, when "processor", "at least one processor", and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform multiple functions, these terms cover, for example but not limited to, the case where one processor performs some of the functions and another processor performs other of the functions, and also cover the case where a single processor may perform all of the functions. Additionally, at least one processor may include, for example, a combination of processors that perform the various functions described / disclosed in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform the various functions. The processor may generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in the memory. The processor may be hardware and may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor may process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory, and may generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as one control circuit or multiple circuits.

[0103] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface may be electrically connected to the indoor unit controller and output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit controller. For example, the output interface may output information such as the operation mode, wind direction, air volume, and temperature selected by the user input. In addition, the output interface may output sensed information obtained from indoor unit sensors or outdoor unit sensors, and output warning / error messages.

[0104] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker may be a sound device and be configured to output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or provided to the user as various graphical elements. For example, the operation information of the air conditioner may be displayed as at least one of an image and text. In addition, the display may include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, a micro-LED panel, and / or multiple LEDs.

[0105] Various example embodiments of the present disclosure will be referred to in more detail below, examples of which are shown in the drawings.

[0106] In the following, for the sake of convenience of description, a window air conditioner installed on a window and / or window frame will be described as an example. However, the content of the present disclosure can also be applied to other types of air conditioners. For example, the content of the present disclosure can also be applied to portable air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioners, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, and floor-standing air conditioners.

[0107] In the following detailed description, terms such as "upward", "downward", "forward", "backward", etc. may be defined by the drawings, but the shapes and positions of the components are not limited by the terms. For example, referring to Figure 1 , when the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the mounting component 2, the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces the indoor space may be defined as forward (+X direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces the outdoor space may be defined as backward (-X direction). In addition, when the air conditioner 3 is installed on the mounting component 2, the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces vertically upward may be defined as upward (+Z direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces vertically downward may be defined as downward (-Z direction). In addition, when the air conditioner 3 is installed on the mounting component 2, based on the drawings, the directions parallel to the +Y direction and -Y direction may be defined as the left direction and the right direction.

[0108] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example air conditioning system according to various embodiments.

[0109] Referring to Figure 1 , the air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a mounting component 2.

[0110] The mounting component 2 may be configured to mount the air conditioner 3, which will be described in more detail below. The mounting component 2 may allow the air conditioner 3 to be installed on the structure A.

[0111] The mounting component 2 may be configured to be capable of being installed on the structure A. The mounting component 2 may be configured to be capable of being mounted on the structure A. The mounting component 2 may be configured to be capable of being fixed to the structure A.

[0112] The mounting component 2 may provide a seal between the air conditioner 3 and the structure A. The mounting component 2 may provide a seal between the indoor space I and the outdoor space O.

[0113] For example, the structure A may include a window and / or window frame. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure A may be set in various ways according to the type of the air conditioner 3. For example, the structure A may include at least one of a wall, a ceiling, or a floor.

[0114] The air conditioning system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an air conditioner 3.

[0115] The air conditioner 3 can be configured to be installed on the mounting assembly 2. The air conditioner 3 can be configured to be installed on the structure A by being mounted on the mounting assembly 2. The air conditioner 3 can be installed in the structure A through the mounting assembly 2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the air conditioner 3 can be installed on the structure A without the mounting assembly 2. For example, the air conditioner 3 can be configured to perform an air conditioning function without being installed on the structure A.

[0116] The air conditioner 3 can be configured to cool or heat the indoor space I. The air conditioner 3 can be configured to exchange heat between indoor air and outdoor air, respectively. For example, the air conditioner 3 can perform a heat exchange operation using a refrigerant cycle, and can be configured to exchange heat between indoor air and the refrigerant, and can be configured to exchange heat between outdoor air and the refrigerant. The air conditioner 3 can be configured to absorb heat from the indoor air and transfer the heat to the outdoor air when cooling the indoor space I. Additionally, the air conditioner 3 can be configured to transfer heat to the indoor air and absorb heat from the outdoor air when heating the indoor space I.

[0117] A part of the air conditioner 3 can be arranged to face the indoor space I. Another part of the air conditioner 3 can be arranged to face the outdoor space O.

[0118] As referred to above Figure 1 The air conditioning system 1 described is merely an example of a system for installing and operating an air conditioner in an air conditioning system according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0119] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the air conditioner as viewed from one direction according to various embodiments. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the air conditioner as viewed from another direction according to various embodiments. Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0120] Referring to Figures 2 to 7 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 3 can include a housing 10. The housing 10 can be configured to form the overall appearance of the air conditioner 3. The housing 10 can form at least a part of the outer surface of the air conditioner 3. The housing 10 can be configured to accommodate various components of the air conditioner 3. The housing 10 can have a substantially box shape.

[0121] For example, the housing 10 may include a front housing 11. For example, the housing 10 may include a rear housing 12. The front housing 11 may be configured to be detachably coupled to the rear housing 12.

[0122] The front housing 11 may be arranged to face the indoor space I (refer to Figure 1 ). For example, the front housing 11 may be configured to form at least a part of the front exterior of the air conditioner 3.

[0123] The rear housing 12 may be arranged to face the outdoor space O (refer to Figure 1 ). For example, the rear housing 12 may be configured to form at least a part of the rear exterior of the air conditioner 3.

[0124] For example, the housing 10 may include a front panel 14. The front panel 14 may form at least a part of the front surface of the housing 10. A second outlet 11b, which will be described later, may be formed on the front panel 14.

[0125] The front panel 14 may be at least partially covered by an emission panel 50, which will be described in more detail below. For example, as Figures 2 to 7 shown, the front panel 14 may be substantially completely covered by the emission panel 50, and thus, the front panel 14 is not visible on the front exterior of the air conditioner 3. However, it is not limited thereto, and a part of the front panel 14 may be covered by the emission panel 50, while other parts of the front panel 14 may not be covered by the emission panel 50 and thus be exposed to the outside. Therefore, the front panel 14 may form a part of the front exterior of the air conditioner 3.

[0126] For example, the housing 10 may include a top panel 15. The top panel 15 may form the upper surface of the air conditioner 3.

[0127] For example, the housing 10 may include a first side panel 16. The first side panel 16 may form the right surface of two side surfaces in the horizontal direction (Y direction) of the air conditioner 3.

[0128] For example, the housing 10 may include a second side panel 17. The second side panel 17 may form the left surface of two side surfaces in the horizontal direction (Y direction) of the air conditioner 3. The second side panel 17 may be provided on the opposite side of the first side panel 16.

[0129] For example, the housing 10 may include a rear panel 18. The rear panel 18 may form the rear surface of the air conditioner 3.

[0130] For example, the housing 10 may include a base 13. The base 13 may form the lower surface of the air conditioner 3. The base 13 may be configured to support at least a part of the configuration provided inside the air conditioner 3.

[0131] For example, the housing 10 may include a top cover 19. For example, the top cover 19 may be configured to form part of the upper surface and / or part of the rear surface of the air conditioner 3. However, the housing 10 may not include a separate top cover 19. For example, the top cover 19 may be configured as part of the top panel 15 or part of the rear panel 18. For example, a part of the top cover 19 may be configured as part of the top panel 15, and another part of the top cover 19 may be configured as part of the rear panel 18.

[0132] For example, referring to Figures 2 to 7 , it shows that the front housing 11 includes a front panel 14, a top panel 15, a first side panel 16, and a second side panel 17, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the front housing 11 may be formed to include only the front panel 14 and the top panel 15. For example, the front housing 11 may further include components other than the front panel 14, the top panel 15, the first side panel 16, and the second side panel 17.

[0133] For example, referring to Figures 2 to 7 , it shows that the rear housing 12 includes a rear panel 18, a base 13, and a top cover 19, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the rear housing 12 may be formed to include only the rear panel 18. For example, the rear housing 12 may further include components other than the rear panel 18, the base 13, and the top cover 19.

[0134] The housing 10 of the air conditioner 3 described above is only an example of the housing provided in the air conditioner according to the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The air conditioner according to the present disclosure may include a housing having various structures and shapes.

[0135] The housing 10 may include a first inlet 12a through which outdoor air flows. The outdoor air may flow into the housing 10 through the first inlet 12a.

[0136] The first inlet 12a may be arranged to face the outdoor space O (refer to Figure 1 ). The first inlet 12a may communicate with the outdoor space O. For example, the first inlet 12a may be formed in the rear housing 12 to allow the introduction of outdoor air. For example, the first inlet 12a may be formed in the rear panel 18. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first inlet 12a may be formed in various parts of the housing 10 facing the outdoor space O.

[0137] The housing 10 may include a first outlet 12b formed to allow the air that exchanges heat with the first heat exchanger 40 to be discharged to the outdoor space O. The outdoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the first inlet 12a may exchange heat with the first heat exchanger 40 and then be discharged to the outdoor space O through the first outlet 12b.

[0138] The first outlet 12b may be arranged to face the outdoor space O (see Figure 1 ). The first outlet 12b may communicate with the outdoor space O. For example, the first outlet 12b may be formed in the rear housing 12. For example, the first outlet 12b may be formed in the rear panel 18. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first outlet 12b may be formed in various portions of the housing 10 facing the outdoor space O.

[0139] The first outlet 12b may be distinguishable from the first inlet 12a. The first outlet 12b may be formed to be spaced apart from the first inlet 12a.

[0140] The first flow path P1 may be formed inside the housing 10. The first flow path P1 may be formed to allow the flow of air introduced from the outside. The first flow path P1 may be formed between the first inlet 12a and the first outlet 12b. For example, the first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed on the first flow path P1. For example, the first fan assembly 100 may be disposed on the first flow path P1.

[0141] The housing 10 may include a second inlet 11a through which indoor air flows. The indoor air may flow into the housing 10 through the second inlet 11a.

[0142] The second inlet 11a may be arranged to face the indoor space I (see Figure 1 ). The second inlet 11a may communicate with the indoor space I. For example, the second inlet 11a may be formed in the front housing 11 to allow the introduction of indoor air. For example, the second inlet 11a may be formed in the second side panel 17. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second inlet 11a may be formed in various portions of the housing 10 facing the indoor space I.

[0143] The housing 10 may include a second outlet 11b formed to allow the air that exchanges heat with the second heat exchanger 60 to be discharged to the outside of the housing 10. The indoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the second inlet 11a may exchange heat with the second heat exchanger 60 and then be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the second outlet 11b. As will be described later, the air discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the second outlet 11b may be discharged to the indoor space I through an opening or a plurality of discharge holes 50h formed in the discharge panel 50 (see Figure 1 ), each discharge hole 50h having a size smaller than that of the opening.

[0144] The second outlet 11b may be arranged to face the indoor space I (see Figure 1). The second outlet 11b can communicate with the indoor space I. For example, the second outlet 11b can be formed in the front case 11. For example, the second outlet 11b can be formed in the front panel 14 and can be covered by the discharge panel 50. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second outlet 11b can be formed in various portions of the housing 10 facing the indoor space I.

[0145] The second outlet 11b can be separated from the second inlet 11a. The second outlet 11b can be formed to be spaced apart from the second inlet 11a.

[0146] The second flow path P2 can be formed inside the housing 10. The second flow path P2 can be formed to allow the air introduced from the indoor space to flow. The second flow path P2 can be formed between the second inlet 11a and the second outlet 11b. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 can be disposed on the second flow path P2. For example, the second fan assembly 200 can be disposed on the second flow path P2.

[0147] The first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 can be arranged to be separated from each other. The outdoor air flowing through the first flow path P1 and the indoor air flowing through the second flow path P2 may not mix inside the housing 10.

[0148] The air conditioner 3 can include a discharge panel 50. The discharge panel 50 can cover at least a part of the housing 10. Specifically, the discharge panel 50 can cover the part of the housing 10 where the second outlet 11b is formed. The discharge panel 50 can be disposed on one side of the second outlet 11b. The discharge panel 50 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the second outlet 11b.

[0149] For example, the discharge panel 50 can cover the front panel 14 where the second outlet 11b is formed. The discharge panel 50 can form at least a part of the front exterior of the air conditioner 3.

[0150] The discharge panel 50 can be arranged to allow at least a part of the air discharged through the second outlet 11b to be discharged. That is, after the indoor air introduced from the indoor space I (refer to Figure 1 ) into the housing 10 exchanges heat with the second heat exchanger 60, at least a part of the heat-exchanged air can sequentially pass through the second outlet 11b and the discharge panel 50 and be discharged back into the indoor space I.

[0151] For example, the discharge panel 50 can include a plurality of discharge holes 50h, and the air flowing out of the second outlet 11b is discharged through the plurality of discharge holes 50h. The plurality of discharge holes 50h formed in the discharge panel 50 can be formed to have a smaller size than the second outlet 11b.

[0152] An opening for discharging air whose discharge is through the second outlet 11b may be formed in the discharge panel 50. The opening formed in the discharge panel 50 may be formed to have a size larger than each of the plurality of discharge holes 50h described above.

[0153] The discharge panel 50 may be coupled to the housing 10. Specifically, the discharge panel 50 may be coupled to the front housing 11. The discharge panel 50 may maintain a fixed position relative to the housing 10.

[0154] The discharge panel 50 may be formed in a substantially flat plate shape. However, it is not limited thereto, and the discharge panel 50 may be formed in various shapes.

[0155] The air conditioner 3 may include a blade 20. The blade 20 may be arranged to open or cover the opening of the discharge panel 50. The blade 20 may have a shape substantially corresponding to the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0156] At a position spaced apart from the second outlet 11b, the blade 20 may be arranged to cover the opening of the discharge panel 50. When covering the opening of the discharge panel 50, the blade 20 may be arranged substantially parallel to the discharge panel 50.

[0157] The blade 20 may be arranged to be rotatable relative to the housing 10. In addition, the blade 20 may be arranged to be rotatable relative to the discharge panel 50. The blade 20 may be coupled to the housing 10.

[0158] The blade 20 may be arranged to guide the indoor air discharged through the opening of the discharge panel 50. The blade 20 may be arranged to adjust the discharge direction of the air discharged into the indoor space through the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0159] In a state of covering the second outlet 11b or the opening of the discharge panel 50, the blade 20 may allow a part of the air discharged from the second outlet 11b to be discharged. That is, after the indoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the second inlet 11a from the indoor space I (refer to Figure 1 exchanges heat with the second heat exchanger 60, at least a part of the heat-exchanged air may sequentially pass through the second outlet 11b and the blade 20 and be discharged back into the indoor space I.

[0160] For example, the blade 20 may include a plurality of discharge holes 20h, and the air flowing out from the second outlet 11b is discharged through the plurality of discharge holes 20h. The plurality of discharge holes 20h formed in the blade 20 may be formed to allow each discharge hole 20h to have a size smaller than the second outlet 11b. In a state where the blade 20 covers the second outlet 11b or the opening of the discharge panel 50, a part of the air discharged from the second outlet 11b may be discharged through the plurality of discharge holes 20h of the blade 20.

[0161] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 3 can operate in a windless operation mode to achieve a windless air flow. The windless operation mode can, for example, refer to a low air volume operation mode in which air is discharged at a speed lower than a certain value while preventing and / or reducing direct blowing towards the user. When the air conditioner 3 operates in the windless operation mode, the air that exchanges heat with the heat exchanger 60 can be discharged through a plurality of discharge holes 50h of the discharge panel 50 and / or a plurality of discharge holes 20h of the blade 20. At this time, the blade 20 can be arranged to cover the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0162] When the blade 20 is arranged to open the opening of the discharge panel 50, most of the air that exchanges heat with the heat exchanger 60 can be discharged through the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0163] The air conditioner 3 can include a first heat exchanger 40. The first heat exchanger 40 can be configured to exchange heat with outdoor air introduced through the first inlet 12a. The first heat exchanger 40 can be provided inside the housing 10. The first heat exchanger 40 can be provided on the first flow path P1. The first heat exchanger 40 can be arranged to face the first inlet 12a. The first heat exchanger 40 can be referred to as an "outdoor heat exchanger" because this heat exchanger exchanges heat with outdoor air.

[0164] The air conditioner 3 can include a second heat exchanger 60. The second heat exchanger 60 can be configured to exchange heat with indoor air introduced through the second inlet 11a. The second heat exchanger 60 can be provided inside the housing 10. The second heat exchanger 60 can be provided on the second flow path P2. At least a part of the second heat exchanger 60 can be arranged to face the second inlet 11a. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 can be arranged to surround at least a part of the second fan assembly 200. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 can be provided to cover at least a part of the second fan assembly 200. The second heat exchanger 60 can also be referred to as an "indoor heat exchanger" because this heat exchanger exchanges heat with indoor air.

[0165] For example, the first heat exchanger 40 can be provided as a condenser, and the second heat exchanger 60 can be provided as an evaporator. At this time, the air conditioner 3 can be configured to cool the indoor space. However, it is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the first heat exchanger 40 can be provided as an evaporator, and the second heat exchanger 60 can be provided as a condenser. At this time, the air conditioner 3 can be configured to heat the indoor space.

[0166] The air conditioner 3 may include a drain pan 80. The drain pan 80 may be configured to collect the condensed water generated in the second heat exchanger 60. The drain pan 80 may be arranged to support the second heat exchanger 60. The drain pan 80 may be arranged to support the second fan assembly 200. For example, the drain pan 80 may include a placement portion 81 on which the base 230 of the second fan assembly 200 is placed.

[0167] The air conditioner 3 may include a compressor 70. The compressor 70 may be configured to compress the refrigerant for heat exchange operations by the first heat exchanger 40 and the second heat exchanger 60. The compressor 70 may be configured to compress the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure state. The refrigerant compressed in the compressor 70 may flow into the first heat exchanger 40 or the second heat exchanger 60.

[0168] For example, the compressor 70 may be disposed below the second fan assembly 200. For example, the compressor 70 may be disposed below the drain pan 80.

[0169] The air conditioner 3 may include a compressor cover 71. The compressor cover 71 may be arranged to cover the compressor 70. The compressor cover 71 may prevent and / or reduce the exposure of the compressor 70 to the outside. The compressor cover 71 may be arranged to protect the compressor 70.

[0170] The air conditioner 3 may include an expansion device. The expansion device may be configured to expand the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger 40 or the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 60.

[0171] The air conditioner 3 may include a control box 90. The control box 90 may house a printed circuit board on which various electronic components are mounted.

[0172] The air conditioner 3 may include a control panel 30. The control panel 30 may be arranged to obtain user input. In addition, the control panel 30 may be arranged to display information about the operation, status, various settings, indoor temperature and humidity, etc. of the air conditioner 3. The control panel 30 may be electrically connected to the controller of the air conditioner 3. For example, the control panel 30 may be disposed in front of the front case 11.

[0173] The air conditioner 3 may include a first fan assembly 100. The first fan assembly 100 may be configured to move the outdoor air inside the housing 10. The first fan assembly 100 may be configured to move the outdoor air between the first inlet 12a and the first outlet 12b.

[0174] For example, the suction side 101 of the first fan assembly 100 may be arranged to face the first inlet 12a. For example, the discharge side 102 of the first fan assembly 100 may be arranged to face the first outlet 12b.

[0175] The first fan assembly 100 may include a first fan 110. For example, the first fan 110 may be arranged to face at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 40.

[0176] The first fan assembly 100 may include a first fan motor 120 for driving the first fan 110.

[0177] The first fan assembly 100 may include a first frame 130 configured to direct outdoor air. For example, the first frame 130 may extend along the extension direction of the first fan 110. For example, the first frame 130 may have a shape that extends substantially in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0178] The air conditioner 3 may include a second fan assembly 200. The second fan assembly 200 may be configured to move indoor air within the housing 10. The second fan assembly 200 may be configured to move indoor air between the second inlet 11a and the second outlet 11b.

[0179] For example, the suction side 201 of the second fan assembly 200 may be arranged to face the second inlet 11a. For example, the discharge side 202 of the second fan assembly 200 may be arranged to face the second outlet 11b. For example, the discharge side 202 of the second fan assembly 200 may be arranged to face the blade 20.

[0180] The second fan assembly 200 may include a second fan 210. For example, the second fan 210 may be arranged to face at least a portion of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0181] The second fan assembly 200 may include a second fan motor 220 for driving the second fan 210.

[0182] The second fan assembly 200 may include a second frame 240 configured to direct indoor air. For example, the second frame 240 may extend along the extension direction of the second fan 210. For example, the second frame 240 may have a shape that extends substantially in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0183] Reference Figure 7 , the first frame 130 and the second frame 240 may be arranged to contact each other. For example, the first frame 130 and the second frame 240 may be configured to allow the first fan 110 and the second fan 210 to be separated from each other. For example, the partition 132 of the first frame 130 and the second frame 240 may be configured to couple and separate the first fan 110 and the second fan 210 from each other. For example, the first frame 130 and the second frame 240 may be configured to allow the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 to be separated from each other. Thus, indoor air and outdoor air may not mix inside the housing 10.

[0184] The above reference Figures 2 to 7 The configuration of the air conditioner 3 described above is only an example of the configuration provided in the air conditioner according to the present disclosure, and the air conditioner according to the present disclosure may include various configurations.

[0185] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0186] Reference Figure 8 , the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may generate condensed water W during the heat exchange operation performed through the refrigerant cycle.

[0187] For example, during the cooling operation of the air conditioner 3, the surface of the second heat exchanger 60 that exchanges heat with the indoor air may be cooled by the refrigerant. During the heat exchange process between the air containing water vapor and the second heat exchanger 60, the condensed water W generated by the condensation of the water vapor may be formed on the surface of the cooled second heat exchanger 60.

[0188] For example, the condensed water W condensed in the second heat exchanger 60 may be mainly collected in the drain pan 80 (reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), the drain pan 80 is disposed below the second heat exchanger 60. Thereafter, the condensed water W collected in the drain pan 80 may be moved to the base 13 located below the drain pan 80 and collected. However, it is not limited thereto, and the condensed water W condensed in the second heat exchanger 60 may be moved to the base 13 and collected through various processes.

[0189] The base 13 may include a water collector 13a provided to collect the condensed water W. The water collector 13a may be disposed on one surface of the base 13 facing the internal space of the housing 10.

[0190] For example, the water collector 13a may be formed to be inclined with respect to the front-rear direction X of the air conditioner 3. For example, the water collector 13a may be inclined with respect to the front-rear direction X of the air conditioner 3 so as to extend downward (-Z direction) pointing to the rear (-X direction) of the air conditioner 3. Therefore, the condensed water W in the water collector 13a may be moved to the rear (-X direction) of the air conditioner 3.

[0191] However, it is not limited thereto, and the water collector 13a may be formed to be parallel to the front-rear direction X of the air conditioner 3.

[0192] The above description is only an example of the process of collecting water in the base 13 in the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, but water can be collected in the base 13 through various processes. For example, when the air conditioner 3 is in the cooling operation, during the process in which the cold air generated by the second heat exchanger 40 is discharged through the second outlet 11b, the discharge panel 50, and the blades 20, dew can be formed on each part of the flow path through which the cold air passes. Therefore, the dew can be moved to the base 13 by gravity and collected. As Figure 1 shown, when the air conditioner 3 is installed in a window (Structure A), the rear panel 18 of the housing 10 can be exposed to the outdoor space O. Therefore, during rainy days, rainwater may flow into the housing 10 from the outdoor space O through the first inlet 12a and the first outlet 12b formed in the rear panel 18. In this way, not only the water generated inside the housing 10 but also the water introduced from the outside of the housing 10 due to various reasons can be collected in the base 13.

[0193] Hereinafter, for convenience, the case where the condensed water generated by the second heat exchanger 60 is collected in the base 13 will be described as an example.

[0194] Figure 9 is a rear view of a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0195] Refer to Figure 9 , the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include one or more drain holes 13h1, 13h2, and 13h3 that are provided to discharge the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the outside of the housing 10.

[0196] For example, the air conditioner 3 may include a first drain hole 13h1 that is provided to discharge the condensed water collected in the base 13 toward the rear (-X direction) of the housing 10. The first drain hole 13h1 may be formed on the rear surface of the base 13. The "rear surface" of the base 13 may refer to a surface of the base 13 facing the rear (-X direction), and when the air conditioner 3 is installed on the structure A through the mounting assembly 2, the "rear surface" of the base 13 may refer to a surface of the base 13 facing the outdoor space O (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0197] The first drain hole 13h1 may be formed to allow the internal space of the housing 10 to communicate with the external space of the housing 10 (more specifically, the outdoor space O). The first drain hole 13h1 may be provided behind the water collector 13a.

[0198] As described above in Figure 8As described above, when the water collector 13a is tilted to point rearward (-X direction) and downward (-Z direction) of the air conditioner 3, the condensed water collected in the water collector 13a can move rearward (-X direction) and be discharged through the first drain hole 13h1.

[0199] The air conditioner 3 may further include a second drain hole 13h2 formed on the right side (+Y direction side) of the first drain hole 13h1 and a third drain hole 13h3 formed on the left side (-Y direction side) of the first drain hole 13h1. The second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 may be arranged to allow the condensed water collected in the base 13 to be discharged to the outside of the housing 10.

[0200] The second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 may be formed to allow the interior space of the housing 10 to communicate with the exterior space of the housing 10 (more specifically, the outdoor space O). The second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 may be provided behind the water collector 13a.

[0201] For example, the second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 may be arranged in the base 13. Specifically, the second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 may be formed on the rear surface of the base 13.

[0202] For example, the second drain hole 13h2 may be formed above the first drain hole 13h1 (+Z direction). For example, the third drain hole 13h3 may be formed above the first drain hole 13h1 (+Z direction). However, the positions of the second drain hole 13h2 and the third drain hole 13h3 are not limited thereto.

[0203] As Figure 1 shown, during the process of installing the air conditioner 3 on the mounting assembly 2, or during the process of installing the mounting assembly 2 on the structure A, or after the installation of the air conditioner 3 is completed, for various reasons, the air conditioner 3 may be positioned at a certain angle relative to the horizontal direction of the ground. In this case, when more than a certain amount of condensed water is collected in the base 13, the water level of the condensed water may reach the upper part of the base 13. When the water level of the condensed water reaches the upper part of the base 13, the condensed water may overflow to the outside of the housing 10 and further flow into the indoor space I which is the living space of the user (refer to Figure 1 )

[0204] As described above, even if the air conditioner 3 is positioned at a certain angle relative to the horizontal direction of the ground, since the base 13 is provided with the first drain hole 13h1, the second drain hole 13h2, and the third drain hole 13h3, the condensed water in the base 13 can be discharged to the outdoor space O through the second drain hole 13h2 or the third drain hole 13h3 (refer to Figure 1). For example, when the air conditioner 3 is positioned at a certain angle with respect to the ground such that the right side (+Y direction) is located lower (-Z direction) than the left side (-Y direction), the condensed water in the base 13 can be discharged to the outdoor space O through the second drain hole 13h2 and the first drain hole 13h1. Therefore, the drainage efficiency can be improved. When the air conditioner 3 is positioned at a certain angle with respect to the ground such that the left side (-Y direction) is located lower (-Z direction) than the right side (+Y direction), the condensed water in the base 13 can be discharged to the outdoor space O through the third drain hole 13h3 and the first drain hole 13h1. Therefore, the drainage efficiency can be improved.

[0205] The drain holes 13h1, 13h2, and 13h3 described above with reference to Figure 9 are merely examples of the drain holes provided in the air conditioner according to the present disclosure that are configured to discharge the condensed water collected in the base to the outside of the housing, and are not limited thereto.

[0206] Meanwhile, even if the condensed water collected in the base 13 of the air conditioner 3 is discharged through the drain holes 13h1, 13h2, and 13h3 as described above, the drainage efficiency may not be sufficient if only drained through the drain holes 13h1, 13h2, and 13h3. In addition, it may be difficult to completely drain the remaining water, depending on the position (height) of the drain holes 13h1, 13h2, 13h3 with respect to the Z direction. Therefore, when the condensed water collected in the base 13 is not sufficiently discharged, for example, when the user removes the product from the mounting assembly 2 (refer to Figure 1 ), or the structure A (refer to Figure 1 ), the remaining water may leak out of the housing 10. In addition, scale or odors may be generated in the base 13 during product storage.

[0207] In some cases, the first drain hole 13h1 can be opened or closed by a drain hole cover (not shown). When the user wants to discharge the condensed water collected in the base 13 while the air conditioner 3 is installed in the structure A through the mounting assembly 2, the user may need to open the first drain hole 13h1 by directly removing the drain hole cover, and since the air conditioner 3 is installed on the window / window frame, it may be difficult for the user to open the first drain hole 13h1.

[0208] To alleviate this difficulty, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drainage device 300 or 300-1 that is configured to automatically discharge the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0209] Hereinafter, examples of the structures and functions of the drainage devices 300 and 300-1 of the air conditioner 3 according to various embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 10 to 14 figures.

[0210] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view that is part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view that is part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the state of operation of a drainage device in an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0211] Reference Figures 10 to 12 , an air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drainage device 300. The drainage device 300 may be configured to drain condensed water collected in the base 13. More specifically, the drainage device 300 may be configured to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40.

[0212] The drainage device 300 may be accommodated inside the housing 10. For example, the drainage device 300 may be supported by the base 13.

[0213] For example, the drainage device 300 may include a scattering wheel 310 that is configured to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 toward the first heat exchanger 40.

[0214] The scattering wheel 310 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the housing 10. For example, the scattering wheel 310 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the base 13, and when the scattering wheel rotates, the scattering wheel 310 may scatter the condensed water collected in the base 13 toward the first heat exchanger 40. When the scattering wheel 310 rotates, a part of the condensed water collected in the base 13 may be scattered by the scattering wheel 310 (reference Figure 12 ).

[0215] For example, the water collector 13a may be provided with a lower groove 13aa that is formed to have a relatively lower height in the Z direction compared to other parts of the water collector 13a. The lower groove 13aa may be recessed and formed on a side of the base 13 facing the inner space of the housing 10. The condensed water collected in the base 13 may tend to flow into the lower groove 13aa.

[0216] The scattering wheel 310 may be located above the lower groove 13aa. When the scattering wheel 310 rotates, the scattering wheel 310 may scatter the condensed water collected in the lower groove 13aa. When the condensed water collected in the lower groove 13aa is scattered by the scattering wheel 310 and moved to the first heat exchanger 40, the condensed water in other parts of the water collector 13a may move to the lower groove 13aa. Therefore, the scattering wheel 310 may effectively remove the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0217] The scattering wheel 310 may be disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 40. As Figures 10 to 12As shown, the scattering wheel 310 can be disposed adjacent to the lower portion of the first heat exchanger 40.

[0218] For example, the first heat exchanger 40 can be arranged in multiple rows. As Figure 11 shown, the first heat exchanger 40 can include a first row of heat exchangers 40a and a second row of heat exchangers 40b. At this time, the scattering wheel 310 can be disposed between the first row of heat exchangers 40a and the second row of heat exchangers 40b.

[0219] Since the scattering wheel 310 is disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 40, the condensed water scattered by the scattering wheel 310 can effectively move toward the first heat exchanger 40.

[0220] However, the arrangement of the scattering wheel 310 is not limited to Figures 10 to 12 the example shown.

[0221] The drainage device 300 can include: a wheel drive motor 330 configured to rotate the scattering wheel 310; and a rotating shaft 320 that connects the scattering wheel 310 and the wheel drive motor 330.

[0222] The wheel drive motor 330 can be configured to generate a driving force for rotating the scattering wheel 310. The driving force generated by the wheel drive motor 330 can be transmitted to the scattering wheel 310 through the rotating shaft 320. The wheel drive motor 330 can include various types of known drive motors.

[0223] Each component of the drainage device 300 can be supported on the base 13. For example, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 shown, the base 13 can include a motor support 13b configured to support the wheel drive motor 330. The wheel drive motor 330 can be fixed to the motor support 13b in various ways. In addition, the base 13 can include a wheel support 13c that is configured to rotatably support the scattering wheel 310 and the rotating shaft 320.

[0224] As Figure 11 shown, the scattering wheel 310 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the lower groove 13aa by a predetermined distance with respect to the upper side (+Z direction) to prevent and / or block collision with the lower groove 13aa when the scattering wheel 310 rotates. The wheel support 13c can be designed to allow the scattering wheel 310 supported on the wheel support 13c to be spaced apart from the lower groove 13aa by a predetermined distance with respect to the upper side (+Z direction).

[0225] By including the drainage device 300 with the above configuration, the condensed water collected in the base 13 can be moved to the first heat exchanger 40.

[0226] Figure 13It is a diagram showing the state of air flow when driving the first fan in an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0227] Reference Figure 13 , by using the first fan 110, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can evaporate the condensed water that is moved to the first heat exchanger 40 through the drainage device 300.

[0228] As Figure 13 shown, when the first fan 110 rotates, outdoor air can flow into the first inlet 12a, flow along the first flow path P1, and then be discharged to the outdoor space O through the first outlet 12b (reference Figure 1 ). That is, the first fan 110 can be configured to allow air to flow through the first heat exchanger 40.

[0229] The condensed water moved to the first heat exchanger 40 can be evaporated by the air flow generated by the first fan 110. Through the air flow, the first fan 110 can evaporate the condensed water moving towards the first heat exchanger 40.

[0230] The water vapor generated by the evaporation of the condensed water due to the air flow generated by the first fan 110 can flow along the first flow path P1 and be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the first outlet 12b.

[0231] As described above, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can use the drainage device 300 and the first fan 110 to remove the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0232] Figure 14 It is a perspective view showing an example of a drainage device in an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0233] Reference Figure 14 , the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a drainage device 300-1, and the drainage device 300-1 can have a configuration different from that of the drainage device 300 described with reference to Figures 10 to 12 . In the Figure 14 embodiment, the drainage device 300-1 can be configured to generate a pressure difference to move the water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40.

[0234] For example, the drainage device 300-1 can include a pump 310-1 configured to generate a pressure difference. The pump 310-1 can be provided in the water collector 13a of the base 13. The pump 310-1 can be arranged to allow the condensed water collected in the base 13 to move upward (+Z direction) through the pressure difference. The pump 310-1 can be configured to generate a pressure difference sufficient to move the condensed water from the base 13 to the upper part of the first heat exchanger 40 and, for example, move it to a distributor 330-1 that will be described in more detail below.

[0235] The drainage device 300-1 may include a hose 320-1 that connects the pump 310-1 and a dispenser 330-1 that will be described in more detail below. The hose 320-1 may be arranged to convey the condensed water from the pump 310-1 to the dispenser 330-1. For example, the hose 320-1 may be arranged along the inner edge of the housing 10 to prevent and / or reduce interference with the components inside the housing 10.

[0236] The drainage device 300-1 may include a dispenser 330-1 that is configured to distribute the condensed water conveyed through the hose 320-1 onto the surface of the first heat exchanger 40. For example, the dispenser 330-1 may be arranged above the first heat exchanger 40. For example, the dispenser 330-1 may include a plurality of holes (not shown) formed therein to face the upper part of the first heat exchanger 40. The condensed water conveyed to the dispenser 330-1 may be discharged onto the first heat exchanger 40 through the holes formed in the dispenser 330-1. For example, the dispenser 330-1 may be formed to have a length that generally corresponds to the length of the first heat exchanger 40 in the horizontal direction (Y direction) to allow the condensed water to be evenly distributed onto the first heat exchanger 40.

[0237] By including the drainage device 300 with this configuration, the condensed water collected in the base 13 can be moved to the first heat exchanger 40.

[0238] When the condensed water is moved to the first heat exchanger 40 by the drainage device 300-1, the condensed water can be evaporated and discharged to the outside of the housing 10 when the first fan 110 is operating, as described above with reference to Figure 13 the above.

[0239] As described above with reference to Figures 10 to 14 the drainage devices 300 and 300-1 are drainage devices that can be included in the air conditioner according to the present disclosure, and are only examples of drainage devices configured to move the collected condensed water towards the first heat exchanger. The air conditioner according to an embodiment may include drainage devices having various structures.

[0240] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0241] Referring to Figure 15 FIG., the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a user interface (e.g., including an interface circuit) 400.

[0242] The user interface 400 may include an input device (e.g., including input circuitry) 410 for receiving user input. The input device 410 may receive from the user setting values or various control commands related to the operation of the air conditioner 3.

[0243] The types of user input obtained through the input device 410 may include turning on / off the power of the air conditioner 3, starting / stopping the cooling or heating operation, setting the target temperature, setting the operation time, setting the air direction, setting the driving mode (e.g., the breeze-free mode or the normal mode), etc.

[0244] The input device 410 may include various types of input devices, such as a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, or a touch switch.

[0245] The input device 410 may also include an input device (such as a remote controller, etc.) configured to remotely obtain user input.

[0246] The input device 410 may receive user input and output an electrical signal (voltage or current) corresponding to the user input to the controller 500. The controller 500 may receive the user input based on the output signal of the input device 410.

[0247] The user interface 400 may include a display 420 for displaying information related to the operation or status of the air conditioner 3.

[0248] The operation or status information of the air conditioner 3 that can be displayed by the display 420 may include the type of operation mode, the indoor temperature or humidity, the target temperature, and information about the occurrence of various errors.

[0249] The display 420 may be set to provide information to the user by including, for example but not limited to, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, etc.

[0250] The display 420 may include a touch screen, which includes a touch panel configured to detect the user's touch. The touch screen may display settings or control commands that the user can select, and may receive the settings or control commands according to the user's touch input.

[0251] For example, the components forming the user interface 400 (e.g., the input device 410 and the display 420) may be implemented as the above-mentioned control panel 30 (refer to Figure 2 etc.).

[0252] The air conditioner 3 may include an indoor temperature sensor 610. The indoor temperature sensor 610 may be configured to detect the indoor air temperature. "Indoor air temperature" may refer to the indoor space I where the air conditioner 3 is installed (refer toFigure 1 The temperature of (). The indoor temperature sensor 610 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the indoor air temperature.

[0253] The air conditioner 3 can include a second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620. The second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 can be configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60. Specifically, the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 can be configured to detect the surface temperature of the second heat exchanger 60. The second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0254] The air conditioner 3 can include a humidity sensor 630. The humidity sensor 630 can be configured to detect the indoor air humidity. "Indoor air humidity" can refer to the relative humidity in the air of the indoor space I (refer to Figure 1 ) where the air conditioner 3 is installed. The humidity sensor 630 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the indoor air humidity.

[0255] The air conditioner 3 can include a water level sensor 700. The water level sensor 700 can be configured to detect the water level of the water collected in the base 13. "The water level of the water collected in the base 13" can refer to the remaining water level in the base 13 at the time of detection. The water level sensor 700 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the water level of the water collected in the base 13.

[0256] The air conditioner 3 can include a controller 500, which is configured to control various configurations of the air conditioner 3.

[0257] The controller 500 may include various control circuits, including, for example, a processor 510, which includes various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used herein (including in the claims), the term "processor" may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor may be configured to perform the various functions described herein individually and / or in a distributed manner. As used herein, when "processor", "at least one processor", and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform multiple functions, these terms cover, for example but not limited to, the case where one processor performs some of the functions while another processor performs other of the functions, and also cover the case where a single processor may perform all of the functions. Additionally, at least one processor may include, for example, a combination of processors that perform the various functions described / disclosed in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform the various functions. The processor 510 may be configured to generate control signals related to the operation of the air conditioner 3. The controller 500 may include a memory 520, which is configured to store programs, applications, instructions, and / or data for the operation of the air conditioner 3. The processor 510 and the memory 520 may be implemented as separate semiconductor devices or as a single semiconductor device. Alternatively, the controller 500 may include multiple processors or multiple memories.

[0258] The processor 510 may include arithmetic circuits, storage circuits, and / or control circuits. The processor 510 may include one chip or multiple chips. Additionally, the processor 510 may include one core or multiple cores.

[0259] The processor 510 may be electrically connected to the memory 520. The processor 510 may use the programs provided from the memory 520 to process data and / or signals, and may send control signals to each configuration of the air conditioner 3 based on the processing results. Each configuration of the air conditioner 3 may operate based on the control signals from the processor 510.

[0260] The memory 520 may store various programs and data required for control, and temporarily store the temporary data generated during control.

[0261] The memory 520 may include volatile memories such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM), and non-volatile memories such as read-only memory (ROM) and erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM). The memory 520 may include one storage element or multiple storage elements.

[0262] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the user interface 400. That is, the controller 500 may be electrically connected to the input device 410 to receive user input obtained through the input device 410, and electrically connected to the display 420 to control the display 420 so as to allow the display 420 to display information related to the operation or state of the air conditioner 3.

[0263] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the indoor temperature sensor 610. The controller 500 may receive an electrical signal related to the indoor air temperature output from the indoor temperature sensor 610.

[0264] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620. The controller 500 may receive an electrical signal related to the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 output from the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620.

[0265] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the humidity sensor 630. The controller 500 may receive an electrical signal related to the indoor air humidity output from the humidity sensor 630.

[0266] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the water level sensor 700. The controller 500 may receive an electrical signal related to the water level of the water collected in the base 13 output from the water level sensor 700.

[0267] The controller 500 may be configured to control the first fan 110. For example, the controller 500 may be electrically connected to the first fan motor 120 and send a control command for rotating or stopping the first fan 110 or a control command related to the rotation speed of the first fan 110 to the first fan motor 120, thereby controlling the operation of the first fan 110. Based on the control command received from the controller 500, the first fan motor 120 may rotate the first fan 110 at a predetermined speed or stop the first fan 110. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of description, the controller 500 controlling the first fan 110 will be described.

[0268] The controller 500 may be configured to control the second fan 210. Specifically, the controller 500 may be electrically connected to the second fan motor 220 and send a control command for rotating or stopping the second fan 210 or a control command related to the rotation speed of the second fan 210 to the second fan motor 220, thereby controlling the second fan 210. Based on the control command received from the controller 500, the second fan motor 220 may rotate the second fan 210 at a predetermined speed or stop the second fan 210. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of description, the controller 500 controlling the second fan 210 will be described.

[0269] The controller 500 can be configured to control the compressor 70. The controller 500 can be electrically connected to the compressor 70 and send a control command to the compressor 70 to allow the compressor 70 to perform or stop the operation of compressing the refrigerant. The compressor 70 can perform or stop compressing the refrigerant based on the control command received from the controller 500.

[0270] The controller 500 can be configured to control the drainage device 300. The controller 500 can be electrically connected to the drainage device 300 and send a control command to the drainage device 300 to allow the drainage device 300 to perform or stop the drainage operation of moving the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40. The drainage device 300 can perform or stop the drainage operation based on the control command received from the controller 500.

[0271] The controller 500 can send a control command related to the drainage speed to the drainage device 300, and the drainage device 300 moves the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at this drainage speed. The drainage device 300 can move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at a predetermined drainage speed based on the control command related to the drainage speed.

[0272] For example, the controller 500 can be electrically connected to the wheel drive motor 330. The controller 500 can control the wheel drive motor 330 to allow the scattering wheel 310 to rotate or stop at a predetermined speed.

[0273] According to the embodiments described above, for example, with reference to Figure 14 , the controller 500 can be configured to control the drainage device 300-1. The controller 500 can send a control command to the drainage device 300-1 to allow the drainage device 300-1 to perform or stop the drainage operation of moving the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40. The drainage device 300-1 can perform or stop the drainage operation based on the control command received from the controller 500.

[0274] For example, the controller 500 can be electrically connected to the pump 310-1. The controller 500 can control the pump 310-1 to transport the water collected in the base 13 to the dispenser 330-1 at a predetermined intensity / speed or stop the operation.

[0275] As mentioned above with reference to Figure 15 The configuration of the air conditioner 3 described is only an example of a part of the configuration of the air conditioner according to the present disclosure, and it is not limited thereto.

[0276] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example control method of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0277] With reference to Figure 16, after stopping the cooling operation, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may perform a drainage operation within a drainage time determined based on the period during which the cooling operation is performed.

[0278] For example, in an exemplary control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 3 may start a cooling operation (1010) based on a predetermined condition. For example, based on an electrical signal for starting the cooling operation input through the input device 410, the controller 500 may control the compressor 70 to compress the refrigerant and control the second fan 210 to move air along the second flow path P2 (refer to Figure 7 and Figure 13 ).

[0279] In addition, the following non-limiting examples of the predetermined condition that may serve as the basis for the air conditioner 3 to start the cooling operation may exist. For example, the controller 500 may obtain setting information about the start reservation time for starting the cooling operation through the input device 410 and start the cooling operation based on the elapse of the start reservation time. For example, the air conditioner 3 may include a communication circuit configured to communicate with an external device such as an external server or a user's terminal device and electrically connected to the controller 500, and the communication circuit may receive a communication signal for starting the cooling operation from the server or the terminal device. In this case, the controller 500 may start the cooling operation based on the signal received by the communication circuit for starting the cooling operation.

[0280] After the cooling operation is started, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be started (1020). The controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 based on the start of the cooling operation. In addition, based on the start of the cooling operation, the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to move air along the first flow path P1 passing through the first heat exchanger 40. In addition, based on the start of the cooling operation, the controller 500 may control the second fan 210 to move air along the second flow path P1 passing through the second heat exchanger 60.

[0281] For example, based on the start of the cooling operation, the controller 500 can control the display 420 to display information on the start of the cooling operation. For example, the air conditioner 3 can include a speaker configured to output voices corresponding to the start / stop of the cooling operation, changes in operation settings, etc., and the speaker is electrically connected to the controller 500. Based on the start of the cooling operation, the controller 500 can control the speaker to output a voice corresponding to the start of the cooling operation. For example, based on the start of the cooling operation in the normal operation mode (the operation mode in which air is discharged through the opening of the discharge panel 50 at the position where the blade 20 opens the opening of the discharge panel 50), the controller 500 can control the blade 20 to open the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0282] The air conditioner 3 can stop the cooling operation based on a predetermined condition. For example, the controller 500 can control the compressor 70 and the second fan 210 to stop operating based on an electrical signal for stopping the cooling operation input through the input device 410.

[0283] In addition, the following are non-limiting examples of the predetermined conditions that can serve as the basis for the air conditioner 3 to stop the cooling operation. For example, the controller 500 can obtain, through the input device 410, setting information on the stop reservation time for stopping the cooling operation, and can stop the cooling operation based on the expiration of the stop reservation time. For example, the air conditioner 3 can include a communication circuit configured to communicate with external devices such as an external server or a user's terminal device and electrically connected to the controller 500, and the communication circuit can receive a signal for stopping the cooling operation from the server or the terminal device. In this case, the controller 500 can stop the cooling operation based on the signal for stopping the cooling operation received by the communication circuit.

[0284] Based on the stop of the cooling operation (Yes in 1030), the operation of the compressor 70 can be stopped (1040). In addition, the operation of the second fan 210 can be stopped based on the stop of the cooling operation.

[0285] For example, based on the stop of the cooling operation, the controller 500 can control the display 420 to display information on the stop of the cooling operation. For example, based on the stop of the cooling operation, the controller 500 can control the speaker to output a voice corresponding to the stop of the cooling operation. For example, based on the stop of the cooling operation in the normal operation mode (the operation mode in which air is discharged through the opening of the discharge panel 50 at the position where the blade 20 opens the opening of the discharge panel 50), the controller 500 can control the blade 20 to cover the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0286] Based on the stop of the cooling operation, the drainage time during which the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 continue to operate can be determined. Starting from the time when the cooling operation stops, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate within the determined drainage time.

[0287] For example, based on the stop of the operation of the compressor 70, the drainage time during which the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 continue to operate can be determined. For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the stop of the operation of the second fan 210. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on a signal for stopping the cooling operation received by the controller 500 through the input device 410. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on a communication signal for stopping the cooling operation received by the communication circuit of the air conditioner 3 from a server or a user's terminal device. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on the expiration of a stop reservation time for stopping the cooling operation. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on the display of information on the stop of the cooling operation on the display 420. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on the output of a voice corresponding to the stop of the cooling operation by the speaker. For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on the blade 20 covering the opening of the discharge panel 50 after the cooling operation is stopped in the normal operation mode of the air conditioner 3.

[0288] For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the period during which the cooling operation is performed. For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the operation time of the compressor 70. The controller 500 can determine the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70.

[0289] For example, the determination of the drainage time can be performed based on the period between the time when the operation of the second fan 210 starts and the time when the operation of the second fan 210 stops.

[0290] For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the period between the time when the controller 500 of the air conditioner 3 receives a signal for starting the cooling operation (including a start reservation time) from the input device 410, a server, or a user's terminal device and the time when the controller 500 of the air conditioner 3 receives a signal for stopping the cooling operation (including a stop reservation time) from the input device 410, a server, or a user's terminal device.

[0291] For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the period between the time when the display 420 displays information on the start of the cooling operation and the time when the display 420 displays information on the stop of the cooling operation.

[0292] For example, the drainage time can be determined based on the time period between the time when the speaker outputs a voice corresponding to the start of the cooling operation and the time when the speaker outputs a voice corresponding to the stop of the cooling operation.

[0293] For example, when the air conditioner 3 performs a cooling operation in the normal operation mode, the drainage time can be determined based on the time period between the time when the blade 20 opens the opening of the discharge panel 50 and the time when the blade 20 covers the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0294] In addition, the drainage time can be determined based on the start time under various conditions for determining the start of the cooling operation and the stop time under various conditions for determining the stop of the cooling operation.

[0295] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped.

[0296] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the operation of the second fan 210 is stopped.

[0297] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the controller 500 receives a signal for stopping the cooling operation from the input device 410, the server, or the user's terminal device.

[0298] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the stop reservation time for stopping the cooling operation has elapsed.

[0299] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the display 420 displays information indicating the stop of the cooling operation.

[0300] For example, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the speaker outputs a voice corresponding to the stop of the cooling operation.

[0301] For example, after the air conditioner 3 stops the cooling operation in the normal operation mode, each of the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can operate during the drainage time starting from the time when the blade 20 covers the opening of the discharge panel 50.

[0302] In addition, the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can continue to operate during the drainage time starting from the stop time under various conditions for determining the stop of the cooling operation.

[0303] Hereinafter, for convenience of description, a period during which a cooling operation is performed corresponds to a period during which the compressor 70 is operated, and an example in which the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 each operate during a drainage time from the time when the operation of the compressor 70 stops will be described in detail.

[0304] The amount of water condensed in the second heat exchanger 60 may vary depending on the operation time of the operating compressor 70 (i.e., the time during which the cooling operation is performed). Specifically, it can be assumed that as the operation time of the compressor 70 increases, the amount of condensed water in the second heat exchanger 60 may increase, and the amount of condensed water collected in the base 13 may increase. Depending on the amount of condensed water collected in the base 13, the drainage time required to sufficiently remove the condensed water may vary, and thus the operation time of the compressor 70 may serve as a relatively important factor in determining the drainage time.

[0305] A method of determining the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 may be set according to experience or experiments. For example, the drainage time corresponding to the operation time of the compressor 70 may be determined based on table information (reference Figure 22 ).

[0306] Information for determining the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 may be stored in the memory 520. The processor 510 may calculate the drainage time corresponding to the operation time of the compressor 70 based on the information stored in the memory 520.

[0307] A control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: after stopping the operation of the compressor 70, operating the drainage device 300 or 300-1 within the determined drainage time to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40. Based on the stop of the cooling operation, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during the drainage time. In other words, based on the stop of the operation of the compressor 70, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during the drainage time.

[0308] In other words, in the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment, the drainage device 300 may operate (1020) during the cooling operation of the air conditioner 3, and even after stopping the cooling operation, the drainage device 300 may continue to operate (1020) within the determined drainage time.

[0309] For example, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the reference operating time, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 may move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during the reference drainage time. Based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the reference operating time, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during the reference drainage time.

[0310] In addition, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the reference operating time, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 may move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during a drainage time that is increased compared to the reference drainage time. Based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the reference operating time, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during a drainage time that is increased compared to the reference drainage time.

[0311] As described above, according to the embodiment, when the operating time of the compressor 70 increases, the drainage time during which the drainage device 300 or 300-1 operates may increase.

[0312] For example, based on the stop of the operation of the compressor 70, the controller 500 may control the wheel drive motor 330 to allow the scattering wheel 310 to rotate during the drainage time.

[0313] For example, based on the stop of the operation of the compressor 70, the controller 500 may control the pump 310-1 to move the condensed water to the distributor 330-1 during the drainage time.

[0314] In addition, the control method of the air conditioner 3 may include: after stopping the operation of the compressor 70, operating the first fan 110 to move air within the determined drainage time. Based on the stop of the cooling operation, the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to move air during the drainage time. In other words, based on the stop of the operation of the compressor 70, the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to move air during the drainage time.

[0315] In other words, in the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to the embodiment, the first fan 110 may not only operate when the air conditioner 3 performs a cooling operation, but also continue to operate within the determined drainage time after the cooling operation is stopped.

[0316] For example, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the reference operating time, the first fan 110 may move air during the reference drainage time. Based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the reference operating time, the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to move air.

[0317] In addition, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the reference operating time, the first fan 110 may move air during a drainage time that is increased compared to the reference drainage time. Based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the reference operating time, the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to move air during a drainage time that is increased compared to the reference drainage time.

[0318] As described above, according to an embodiment, when the operating time of the compressor 70 increases, the drainage time during which the first fan 110 operates may increase.

[0319] The drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may each continue to operate until the drainage time determined based on the operating time of the compressor 70 has elapsed (''No'' in 1050). Thereafter, based on the drainage time determined according to the operating time of the compressor 70 having elapsed (''Yes'' in 1050), the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be stopped (1060). For example, after stopping the operation of the compressor 70, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 to stop based on the elapsed drainage time.

[0320] According to an embodiment, the drainage time of the drainage devices 300 and 300-1 (the time during which the drainage devices 300 and 300-1 additionally operate after stopping the operation of the compressor 70) and the drainage time of the first fan 110 (the time during which the first fan 110 additionally operates after stopping the operation of the compressor 70) may be determined to be substantially the same. Accordingly, when the determined drainage time has elapsed, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be stopped almost simultaneously.

[0321] However, according to an embodiment, the drainage time of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the drainage time of the first fan 110 may be determined differently, and the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be determined to stop at different times. For example, the operation of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 may be stopped first, and the operation of the first fan 110 may be stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0322] Through the control method of the air conditioner 3, after stopping the cooling operation of the air conditioner 3, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be used to effectively remove the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0323] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0324] ReferenceFigure 17 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 3 may include an indoor temperature sensor 610 configured to detect the indoor air temperature. The functions and operations of the indoor temperature sensor 610 are substantially the same as those described above with reference to Figure 15 the functions and operations described.

[0325] For example, the indoor temperature sensor 610 may be disposed inside the housing 10 but may be disposed adjacent to the outside of the housing 10. The indoor temperature sensor 610 may be disposed on the second flow path P2. For example, the indoor temperature sensor 610 may be disposed between the second heat exchanger 60 and the second inlet 11a. Therefore, before the indoor air introduced from the indoor space I (refer to Figure 1 ) through the second inlet 11a passes through the second heat exchanger 60, the indoor temperature sensor 610 may detect the indoor air temperature, and thus the detection accuracy of the indoor temperature sensor 610 may be improved.

[0326] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 3 may include a humidity sensor 630 configured to detect the humidity of the indoor air. The functions and operations of the humidity sensor 630 are substantially the same as those described above with reference to Figure 15 the functions and operations described.

[0327] For example, the humidity sensor 630 may be disposed inside the housing 10 but may be disposed adjacent to the outside of the housing 10. The humidity sensor 630 may be disposed outside the second flow path P2. For example, as Figure 17 shown, the humidity sensor 630 may be disposed above the second heat exchanger 60 (and the second inlet 11a). Therefore, the humidity sensor 630 may prevent and / or reduce the influence of the wind flowing along the second flow path P2 when the second fan 210 is driven on the detection of humidity, and may improve the detection accuracy of the humidity sensor 630.

[0328] In addition, as described above with reference to Figure 15 the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620. The second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 may be disposed adjacent to the surface of the second heat exchanger 60. For example, the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 may be disposed inside the housing 10 instead of inside the second heat exchanger 60 and may be arranged to contact one surface of the second heat exchanger 60. Therefore, the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620 may detect the surface temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 different from the room temperature, and may improve the detection accuracy of the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0329] As described above with reference to Figure 17The description of the described positions is merely an example of the positions where the indoor temperature sensor 610, the second heat exchanger sensor 620, and the humidity sensor 630 are respectively provided, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0330] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0331] In reference Figure 18 When describing the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same operations as those of the control method of the air conditioner 3 described in the reference Figure 16 and the description thereof may not be repeated here.

[0332] In Figure 18 it, in the control method of the air conditioner 3, a method of determining the drainage time of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 starting from the time when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped will be described.

[0333] Reference Figure 18 , after the compressor 70 stops operating, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may perform a drainage operation during a drainage time determined based on one or more values among the operation time of the compressor 70, the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0334] For example, the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: detecting at least one physical quantity among the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger.

[0335] For example, as described above, the indoor temperature sensor 610 may detect the temperature of the indoor air. For example, as described above, the second heat exchanger sensor 620 may detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60. For example, as described above, the humidity sensor 630 may detect the humidity of the indoor air.

[0336] The control method of the air conditioner 3 may include: determining the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and at least one physical quantity among the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger.

[0337] For example, the controller 500 may determine the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and the temperature of the indoor air.

[0338] For example, the controller 500 may determine the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0339] For example, the controller 500 may determine the drainage time based on the operating time of the compressor 70 and the temperature difference between the indoor air temperature and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0340] For example, the controller 500 may determine the drainage time based on the operating time of the compressor 70 and the humidity of the indoor air.

[0341] The method of determining the drainage time based on at least one physical quantity among the operating time of the compressor 70, the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 can be set according to experience or experiment. For example, it can be based on table information (reference Figure 22 ) to determine the drainage time corresponding to at least one physical quantity among the operating time of the compressor 70, the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0342] The information for determining the drainage time based on at least one physical quantity among the operating time of the compressor 70, the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 can be stored in the memory 520. Based on the information stored in the memory 520, the processor 510 can calculate the drainage time corresponding to at least one physical quantity among the operating time of the compressor 70, the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60.

[0343] For example, the drainage time can be determined based on at least one physical quantity among the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 detected when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped, or immediately before or after the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped. For example, the controller 500 can determine the drainage time based on at least one of the output values of the indoor temperature sensor 610, the output value of the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620, and the output value of the humidity sensor 630 detected when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped, or immediately before or after the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped.

[0344] Therefore, the drainage time can be determined by reflecting more meaningful information as the basis for determining the drainage time.

[0345] Based on the drainage time determined according to one or more physical quantities among the operating time of the compressor 70, the indoor air temperature, the indoor air humidity, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 ( "Yes" in 1051), the operation of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (1060).

[0346] Through the control method of the air conditioner 3, the drainage time can be determined based on more detailed conditions, and after stopping the cooling operation of the air conditioner 3, the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be used more effectively to remove the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0347] In the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment, the drainage time for operating the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be determined based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and one physical quantity among the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60, or based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and two physical quantities among these physical quantities, or based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and all physical quantities. In addition, the present disclosure does not exclude determining the drainage time by additionally considering conditions other than the above physical quantities.

[0348] Hereinafter, Figures 19 to 22 Embodiments for determining the drainage time based on the operation time of the compressor 70 and physical quantities among the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, or the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 will be described in more detail.

[0349] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 20 is a flowchart of a method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments continuing from Figure 19 of. Figure 21 is a flowchart of a method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments continuing from Figure 19 of. Figure 22 is a table showing examples of the drainage time determined according to each condition in the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0350] When Figures 19 to 22 describing the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the same reference numerals can be assigned to the same operations as those in the control method of the air conditioner 3 described in Figures 16 to 18 and its description may not be repeated.

[0351] Referring to Figures 19 to 22 , after stopping the operation of the compressor 70, the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can perform a drainage operation during the drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor 70, the temperature difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60, and the humidity of the indoor air.

[0352] The controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 to operate respectively during the drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor, the temperature difference between the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger, and the humidity of the indoor air. In other words, the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 during the drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor, the temperature difference between the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger, and the humidity of the indoor air, and control the first fan 110 to move air.

[0353] As described above, as the cooling operation time increases, the time period during which water condenses in the second heat exchanger 60 may increase. Therefore, the operation time of the compressor 70 may serve as a relatively important factor affecting the amount of condensed water.

[0354] As the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 increases, the amount of water generated in such a manner that water vapor in the indoor air condenses on the surface of the second heat exchanger 60 may increase. Therefore, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 may serve as a relatively important factor affecting the amount of condensed water.

[0355] As the humidity of the indoor air increases, the amount of water generated in such a manner that water vapor in the indoor air condenses on the surface of the second heat exchanger 60 may increase. Therefore, the humidity of the indoor air may serve as a relatively important factor affecting the amount of condensed water.

[0356] Therefore, as Figures 19 to 22 shown, when determining the drainage time based on the temperature difference between the indoor air and the second heat exchanger 60, the humidity of the indoor air, and the operation time of the compressor 70, the drainage time for more effectively removing condensed water using the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be determined.

[0357] For example, the drainage time may be determined based on the temperature and humidity of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 detected when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped, or immediately before or after the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped.

[0358] That is, the controller 500 may determine the drainage time based on the output value of the indoor temperature sensor 610, the output value of the second heat exchanger temperature sensor 620, and the output value of the humidity sensor 630 detected when the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped, or immediately before or after the operation of the compressor 70 is stopped.

[0359] For example, referring to Figures 19 to 22, the drainage time can be determined based on whether the operation time of the compressor 70 is less than the first operation time, whether the operation time of the compressor 70 is greater than or equal to a second operation time that is greater than the first operation time, and whether the operation time is greater than or equal to the first operation time but less than the second operation time.

[0360] For example, the first operation time can be set to about 10 minutes, and the second operation time can be set to about 30 minutes, but is not limited thereto.

[0361] In addition, referring to Figures 19 to 22 , the drainage time can be determined based on whether the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 is less than the reference temperature difference or greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference.

[0362] For example, the reference temperature difference can be set to about 3 degrees Celsius, but is not limited thereto.

[0363] In addition, referring to Figures 19 to 22 , the drainage time can be determined based on whether the humidity of the indoor air is less than the reference humidity range, whether the humidity of the indoor air is within the reference humidity range, or whether the humidity of the indoor air is greater than or equal to the reference humidity range. "Less than the reference humidity range" can mean, for example, that the humidity is less than the minimum value of the reference humidity range, "greater than or equal to the reference humidity range" can mean, for example, that the humidity is greater than or equal to the maximum value of the reference humidity range, and "within the reference humidity range" can mean, for example, that the humidity is between the minimum and maximum values of the reference humidity range.

[0364] For example, the reference humidity range can be set to about 60% to 75%, but is not limited thereto.

[0365] According to Figures 19 to 22 the determined drainage time can be classified into a first drainage time, a second drainage time, and a third drainage time, where the third drainage time is greater than the first drainage time but less than the second drainage time.

[0366] Referring to Figure 19 、 Figure 20 and Figure 22, based on that the operating time of the compressor 70 is less than the first operating time (Yes in 2051), the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 is less than the reference temperature difference (Yes in 2053), and the humidity of the indoor air is less than the reference humidity range (Yes in 2054), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the first drainage time. The controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the first drainage time. In response to the elapse of the first drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2064).

[0367] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22 , based on that the operating time of the compressor 70 is less than the first operating time (Yes in 2051), the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 is less than the reference temperature difference (Yes in 2053), and the humidity of the indoor air is within the reference humidity range (No in 2054 and No in 2055), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the third drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the third drainage time. In response to the elapse of the third drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2063).

[0368] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22 , based on that the operating time of the compressor 70 is less than the first operating time (Yes in 2051), the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 is less than the reference temperature difference (Yes in 2053), and the humidity of the indoor air is greater than or equal to the reference humidity range (No in 2054 and Yes in 2055), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the second drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the second drainage time. In response to the elapse of the second drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2062).

[0369] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the first operating time ("Yes" in 2051), and the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference ("No" in 2053), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the second drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the second drainage time. In response to the elapse of the second drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2062).

[0370] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22 , based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time ("No" in 2051 and "No" in 2052), the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being less than the reference temperature difference ("Yes" in 2056), and the humidity of the indoor air being within the reference humidity range or less than the reference humidity range (i.e., the humidity of the indoor air is less than or equal to the maximum humidity range within the reference humidity range) ("No" in 2057), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the third drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the third drainage time. In response to the elapse of the third drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2066).

[0371] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22 , based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time ("No" in 2051 and "No" in 2052), the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being less than the reference temperature difference ("Yes" in 2056), and the humidity of the indoor air being greater than or equal to the reference humidity range ("Yes" in 2057), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the second drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the second drainage time. In response to the elapse of the second drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2065).

[0372] Reference Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 22, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time ( "No" in 2051 and "No" in 2052), and the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference ( "No" in 2056), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the second drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the second drainage time. In response to the elapse of the second drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2065).

[0373] Reference Figure 19 and Figure 22 , based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the second operating time ( "No" in 2051 and "Yes" in 2052), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 60 during the second drainage time. In addition, the controller 500 can control the first fan 110 to move air during the second drainage time. In response to the elapse of the second drainage time, the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (2061).

[0374] In summary, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the first operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than the reference humidity range, the drainage time can be determined as the first drainage time.

[0375] In addition, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the second operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference, or the humidity of the indoor air being greater than or equal to the reference humidity range, the drainage time can be determined as the second drainage time.

[0376] In addition, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being less than the second operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being within the reference humidity range, the drainage time can be determined as the third drainage time.

[0377] In addition, based on the operating time of the compressor 70 being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger 60 being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than or equal to the maximum humidity range within the reference humidity range, the drainage time can be determined as the third drainage time.

[0378] Through the control method of the air conditioner 3, the drainage time can be determined based on more detailed conditions, and after stopping the cooling operation of the air conditioner 3, the drainage devices 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be used more effectively to remove the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0379] Figure 23 is an enlarged view showing a part (e.g., a water level sensor) of the configuration of the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0380] Reference Figure 23 , the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a water level sensor 700 configured to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13. The water level sensor 700 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the water level of the water collected in the base 13 and send the electrical signal to the controller 500.

[0381] The water level sensor 700 may be disposed inside the housing 10. For example, the water level sensor 700 may be supported by the base 13.

[0382] The water level sensor 700 may be disposed adjacent to the base 13. For example, the water level sensor 700 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the base 13 by a predetermined distance with respect to the upper side (+Z direction).

[0383] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the water level sensor 700 may be disposed in the housing 10 in various ways.

[0384] For example, the water level sensor 700 may include a first water level detector 710 configured to detect whether the remaining water level in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level l1. When the water level of the condensed water in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level l1, the first water level detector 710 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the water level. The first water level sensor 710 may include various types of sensors, such as a float switch.

[0385] In addition, the water level sensor 700 may further include a second water level detector 720 configured to detect whether the remaining water level in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the second water level l2. When the water level of the condensed water in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the second water level l2, the second water level detector 720 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the water level. The second water level sensor 720 may include various types of sensors, such as a float switch.

[0386] As mentioned above with reference to Figure 23The configuration of the described water level sensor 700 is merely an example of a water level sensor configured to detect the water level of condensed water collected in the base of an air conditioner according to the present disclosure, but is not limited thereto. For example, the water level sensor of the air conditioner according to an embodiment may be configured to detect only whether the water level of the condensed water collected in the base is greater than or equal to a first water level, or may be configured to detect the continuous water level of the condensed water.

[0387] Figure 24 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0388] In reference Figure 24 When describing the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same operations as those of the control method of the air conditioner 3 described in reference Figures 16 to 22 and its description may not be repeated.

[0389] In Figure 24 a method for determining the drainage speed at which the drainage device 300 or 300-1 moves the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 is described in the control method of the air conditioner 3.

[0390] Referring to Figure 24 in the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 may operate at a drainage speed determined based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0391] For example, the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: using the water level sensor 700 to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13. For example, the water level sensor 700 may continuously output an electrical signal corresponding to the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0392] The control method of the air conditioner 3 may include: determining the drainage speed of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0393] Based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 3070), the drainage device 300 or 300-1 may operate so as to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at a first drainage speed (3081). That is, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 3070), the controller 500 may control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at a first drainage speed (3081).

[0394] Based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level ("Yes" in 3070), the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can operate to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 (3082) at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed. For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level ("Yes" in 3070), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 (3082) at the second drainage speed.

[0395] For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being less than the first water level, the controller 500 can control the wheel drive motor 330 to rotate the scattering wheel 310 at the first wheel rotation speed. Conversely, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level, the controller 500 can control the wheel drive motor 330 to rotate the scattering wheel 310 at a second wheel rotation speed greater than the first wheel rotation speed.

[0396] For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being less than the first water level, the controller 500 can control the pump 310-1 to move the condensed water in the base 13 to the distributor 330-1 at the first pressure intensity. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level, the controller 500 can control the pump 310-1 to move the condensed water in the base 13 to the distributor 330-1 at a second pressure intensity greater than the first pressure intensity.

[0397] The above operations can be continuously repeated until the drainage time determined based on the conditions described above ( "No" in 1050) has elapsed. Figures 16 to 22 Description.

[0398] Thereafter, based on the drainage time determined according to the conditions described in the reference ( "Yes" in 1050), the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (1060). Figures 16 to 22 Description.

[0399] In the control method of the air conditioner 3, since the drainage speed of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 is determined based on the water level of the condensed water, the condensed water collected in the base 13 can be removed more effectively.

[0400] Figure 25 Is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0401] In the reference Figure 25 When describing the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it may be related to the reference Figures 16 to 22The same operations as the control method of the described air conditioner 3 are assigned the same reference numerals and their descriptions may not be repeated.

[0402] In Figure 25 a method of determining the rotational speed of the first fan 110 in the control method of the air conditioner 3 is described.

[0403] Referring to Figure 25 in the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fan 110 may operate at a rotational speed determined based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0404] The control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: determining the rotational speed of the first fan 110 based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13.

[0405] Based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 3070), the first fan 110 may operate to rotate at the first fan rotational speed (4081). For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 3070), the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to rotate at the first fan rotational speed (4081).

[0406] Based on the remaining water level on the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level ("Yes" in 3070), the first fan 110 may operate to rotate at a second fan rotational speed greater than the first fan rotational speed (4082). For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level ("Yes" in 3070), the controller 500 may control the first fan 110 to rotate at a second fan rotational speed greater than the first fan rotational speed (4082).

[0407] The above operations may be continuously repeated until the drainage time determined based on the conditions described with reference to Figures 16 to 22 ("No" in 1050) has elapsed.

[0408] Thereafter, based on the drainage time determined based on the conditions described with reference to Figures 16 to 22 ("Yes" in 1050) having elapsed, the operation of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 may be stopped (1060).

[0409] In the control method of the air conditioner 3, the rotational speed of the first fan 110 may be determined based on the water level of the condensed water, so that the condensed water collected in the base 13 can be removed more effectively.

[0410] Figure 26is a graph showing the change over time of the power input to the compressor, the first fan, and the drainage device based on the remaining water level not being detected by the water level sensor, and the change over time of the electrical signal output by the water level sensor in an air conditioner according to various embodiments. Figure 27 is a graph showing the change over time of the power input to the compressor, the first fan, and the drainage device based on the remaining water level detected by the water level sensor being greater than or equal to the first water level, and the change over time of the electrical signal output by the water level sensor in an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0411] Figure 26 and Figure 27 The graphs shown illustrate the change over time of the power input to each of the compressor, the first fan, and the drainage device in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and the change over time of the electrical signal output in response to the water level sensor detecting the water level.

[0412] Reference Figure 26 and Figure 27 , in response to a cooling operation stop condition occurring in the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the power input to the compressor 70 can be cut off, and the compressor 70 can be stopped (time t0). Even at this time, power can continue to be supplied to the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to remove the condensed water collected in the base 13, so the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can each continue to operate.

[0413] The drainage time (time t1 - t0) during which each of the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1 operates can be determined based on the above conditions. In response to the drainage time (time t1) elapsing, the power input to the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can be cut off, and the operation of the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can be stopped.

[0414] In response to the water level sensor 700 not detecting that the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level, a first amount of power P1 can be input to the first fan 110 to allow the first fan 110 to rotate at a first fan rotation speed, and a first amount of power P1 can be input to the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water to the first heat exchanger 40 at a first drainage speed.

[0415] In response to the water level sensor 700 detecting that the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level (output signal L1), a second electric power amount P2 can be input to the first fan 110 to allow the first fan 110 to rotate at a second fan rotation speed greater than the first fan rotation speed, and a second electric power amount P2 can be input to the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water to the first heat exchanger 40 at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed.

[0416] Reference Figure 27 , based on the water level sensor 700 outputting a signal L1 indicating that the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level, a second electric power amount P2 can be input to the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1. Thereafter, in response to the water level in the base 13 decreasing to less than the first water level and the water level sensor 700 not detecting that the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 is greater than or equal to the first water level (time t2), a first electric power amount P1 can be input to the first fan 110 and the drainage device 300 or 300-1.

[0417] Figure 28 is a flowchart showing an example method of controlling an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0418] In reference Figure 28 when describing the control method of the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the same reference numerals can be assigned to the same operations as those of the control method of the air conditioner 3 described in reference Figures 16 to 25 and its description can be omitted without repetition.

[0419] In Figure 28 , a specific operation for controlling the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 according to the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 is described in the control method of the air conditioner 3.

[0420] Reference Figure 28 , in the air conditioner 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can operate at a drainage speed determined based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13. In addition, the first fan 110 can operate at a rotation speed determined based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13. This corresponds to the description described in the previous reference Figure 24 and Figure 25 .

[0421] Based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 5071), the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can operate to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at a first drainage speed, and the first fan 110 can operate to rotate at a first fan rotation speed (5081). For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being less than the first water level ("No" in 5071), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at the first drainage speed, and control the first fan 110 to rotate at the first fan rotation speed (5081).

[0422] Based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level but less than the second water level ("Yes" in 5071 and "No" in 5072), the drainage device 300 or 300-1 can operate to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed, and the first fan 110 can operate to rotate at a second fan rotation speed greater than the first fan rotation speed (5082). For example, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the first water level but less than the second water level ("Yes" in 5071 and "No" in 5072), the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 to move the condensed water collected in the base 13 to the first heat exchanger 40 at the second drainage speed, and control the first fan 110 to rotate at the second fan rotation speed (5082).

[0423] In response to the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the second water level, the condensed water can overflow from the housing 10. Therefore, based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the second water level, the air conditioner 3 can stop the operation of the entire product while outputting an error notification. For example, based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the second water level, the controller 500 can control the display 420 to output a notification about the error while stopping the operation of the entire product.

[0424] As described above, based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the second water level ("Yes" in 5071 and "Yes" in 5072), the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (1060) regardless of whether the drainage time has elapsed. That is, based on the remaining water level in the base 13 being greater than or equal to the second water level, the controller 500 can control the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 to stop their operations.

[0425] The above operations can be continuously repeated unless based on the reference Figures 16 to 22The drainage time or the remaining water level determined under the described conditions is greater than or equal to the second water level ("No" in 1050). Thereafter, based on the drainage time determined according to the reference Figures 16 to 22 described conditions ("Yes" in 1050), the operations of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the first fan 110 can be stopped (1060).

[0426] Therefore, since the drainage speed of the drainage device 300 or 300-1 and the rotation speed of the first fan 110 are determined based on the water level of the condensed water, the condensed water collected in the base 13 can be removed more effectively. In addition, since the operation of the product can be stopped and an error notification can be output in response to an excessively high condensed water level, the overflow of condensed water into the user's indoor space can be prevented and / or reduced, or damage to the product can be prevented and / or reduced.

[0427] An air conditioner according to an exemplary embodiment may include: a housing including a base; a first heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a second heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with indoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for the heat exchange operation performed by the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; a first fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger; a drainage device including a drainage means, the drainage device being configured to move the condensed water condensed on the second heat exchanger inside the housing and collected in the base to the first heat exchanger; and a controller including at least one processor, the at least one processor including a processing circuit, the at least one processor being configured to: based on the stop of the operation of the compressor, control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor, and control the first fan to move air during the drainage time. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner can automatically remove the condensed water collected in the base using the drainage device and the first fan. Additionally, according to the present disclosure, even after the operation is terminated, the air conditioner can effectively remove the condensed water by operating the drainage device and the first fan. Additionally, according to the present disclosure, based on the operation time of the compressor, the air conditioner can set a drainage time for operating the drainage device and the first fan after the operation is terminated, so that the air conditioner can effectively remove the condensed water.

[0428] According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller may be configured to: control the drainage device and the first fan to stop based on the elapse of the drainage time after the operation of the compressor is stopped.

[0429] Based on the operating time being less than the reference operating time, the controller can be configured to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during the reference drainage time, and control the first fan to move air during the reference drainage time. Based on the operating time being greater than or equal to the reference operating time, the controller can be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time increased compared to the reference drainage time, and can be configured to control the first fan to move air during the increased drainage time.

[0430] The air conditioner according to the exemplary embodiment may further include an indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller. The controller can be configured to determine the drainage time based on the operating time and the temperature of the indoor air. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner can be configured to: set the drainage time for operating the drainage device and the first fan after termination of operation based on detailed conditions including the operating time of the compressor and the temperature of the indoor air, wherein the air conditioner can more effectively remove condensed water.

[0431] According to the exemplary embodiment, the air conditioner may further include a second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger and electrically connected to the controller. The controller can be configured to determine the drainage time based on the operating time and the temperature of the second heat exchanger. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner can be configured to: set the drainage time for operating the drainage device and the first fan after termination of operation based on conditions including the operating time of the compressor and the temperature of the second heat exchanger, and thus the air conditioner can more effectively remove condensed water.

[0432] According to the exemplary embodiment, the air conditioner may further include a humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller. The controller can be configured to determine the drainage time based on the operating time and the humidity of the indoor air. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner can be configured to: set the drainage time for operating the drainage device and the first fan after termination of operation based on detailed conditions including the operating time of the compressor and the humidity of the indoor air, and thus the air conditioner can more effectively remove condensed water.

[0433] According to an exemplary embodiment, the air conditioner may further include: an indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of indoor air; a second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger; and a humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of indoor air. The controller may be electrically connected to the indoor temperature sensor, the second heat exchanger temperature sensor, and the humidity sensor. Based on the operating time being less than a first operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than a reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than a reference humidity range, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a first drainage time, and control the first fan to move air during the first drainage time. Based on the operating time being greater than or equal to a second operating time greater than the first operating time, or based on the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference, or based on the humidity of the indoor air being greater than or equal to the reference humidity range, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a second drainage time greater than the first drainage time, and may control the first fan to move air during the second drainage time.

[0434] Based on the operating time being less than the second operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being within the reference humidity range, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a third drainage time greater than the first drainage time but less than the second drainage time, and may control the first fan to move air during the third drainage time.

[0435] Based on the operating time being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time, the difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than or equal to the maximum humidity range within the reference humidity range, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a third drainage time greater than the first drainage time but less than the second drainage time, and may control the first fan to move air during the third drainage time.

[0436] The air conditioner may further include: an indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of indoor air and electrically connected to the controller; a second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger and electrically connected to the controller; and a humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of indoor air and electrically connected to the controller. The controller may be configured to determine a drainage time based on the output value of the indoor temperature sensor, the output value of the second heat exchanger temperature sensor, and the output value of the humidity sensor according to the time when the operation of the compressor is stopped. According to the present disclosure, the air conditioner can determine the drainage time by reflecting more meaningful information as a basis for determining the drainage time, and thus can improve the efficiency of using the drainage device and the first fan to remove condensed water.

[0437] The drainage device may further include: a scattering wheel configured to be rotatable inside the housing and configured to scatter the condensed water collected in the base toward the first heat exchanger according to its rotation; and a wheel drive motor configured to rotate the scattering wheel. The controller may be configured to control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate during the drainage time.

[0438] The air conditioner may further include a water level sensor configured to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base and electrically connected to the controller. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than a first water level, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger at a first drainage speed. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, the controller may be configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed. According to the present disclosure, by determining the drainage speed of the drainage device based on the water level of the condensed water, the air conditioner can more effectively remove the condensed water collected in the base.

[0439] The drainage device may further include: a scattering wheel configured to be rotatable inside the housing and configured to scatter the condensed water collected in the base toward the first heat exchanger based on its rotation; and a wheel drive motor configured to rotate the scattering wheel. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than a first water level, the controller may be configured to control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate at a first wheel rotation speed. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, the controller may be configured to control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate at a second wheel rotation speed greater than the first wheel rotation speed.

[0440] The air conditioner may further include a water level sensor configured to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base and electrically connected to the controller. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than a first water level, the controller may be configured to control the first fan to rotate at a first fan rotation speed. Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, the controller may be configured to control the first fan to rotate at a second fan rotation speed greater than the first fan rotation speed. According to the present disclosure, by determining the rotation speed of the first fan based on the water level of the condensed water, the air conditioner can more effectively remove the condensed water collected in the base.

[0441] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method of controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner including: a first heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with indoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant; and a housing configured to accommodate the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor, the method may include: stopping the operation of the compressor; operating a drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor; and operating a first fan to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger during the drainage time.

[0442] Operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger and operating the first fan to move air during the drainage time may include: based on the operation time being less than a reference operation time, operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a reference drainage time, and operating the first fan to move air during the reference drainage time; and based on the operation time being greater than or equal to the reference operation time, operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time increased compared to the reference drainage time, and operating the first fan to move air during the increased drainage time.

[0443] The method of controlling the air conditioner may further include: using a sensor to detect at least one physical quantity of the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger, and determining the drainage time based on the operation time and at least one of the temperature of the indoor air, the humidity of the indoor air, and the temperature of the second heat exchanger.

[0444] The method of controlling an air conditioner may further include: using a water level sensor disposed inside the housing to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing. Operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time may include: based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing being less than a first water level, operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger at a first drainage speed; and based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing being greater than or equal to the first water level, operating the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed.

[0445] The method of controlling an air conditioner may further include: using a water level sensor disposed inside the housing to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing. Operating the first fan to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger during a drainage time may include: based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing being less than a first water level, operating the first fan to rotate at a first fan rotation speed; and based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the housing being greater than or equal to the first water level, operating the first fan to rotate at a second fan rotation speed greater than the first fan rotation speed.

[0446] According to an exemplary embodiment, an air conditioner may include: a housing including a base; an outdoor heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for a cooling operation; an outdoor fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the outdoor heat exchanger; a drainage device including a drainage means, the drainage device being disposed inside the housing and configured to move the water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger; and a controller including at least one processor, the at least one processor including a processing circuit, the at least one processor being configured to control the operations of the compressor, the outdoor fan, and the drainage device individually and / or jointly. Based on the start of a cooling operation, the controller may be configured to: control the drainage device to move the water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger. Based on the stop of a cooling operation, the controller may be configured to: control the drainage device to move the water collected in the base to the outdoor heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on a period during which the cooling operation is performed. The controller may be configured to: control the outdoor fan to move air during the drainage time.

[0447] The disclosed embodiments may be embodied in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be embodied as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0448] A computer-readable recording medium includes various recording media storing instructions that can be decoded by a computer. For example, there may be a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, flash memories, and optical data storage devices.

[0449] The machine-readable storage medium can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. "Non-transitory" may mean that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term includes cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0450] A method according to various disclosed embodiments can be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product can be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product is distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or directly or online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) between two user devices (e.g., a smart phone) through an application store (e.g., PlayStoreTM). In the case of online distribution, at least a part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable application) can be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0451] From the above description, it is obvious that an air conditioner can automatically remove the water collected in the housing using a drainage device and a first fan.

[0452] The air conditioner can effectively remove the water collected in the housing using a drainage device and a first fan.

[0453] Even after the termination of the operation, the air conditioner can effectively remove the water collected in the housing by operating the drainage device and the first fan.

[0454] The air conditioner can set a drainage time for operating the drainage device and the first fan after the termination of the operation based on conditions such as the operation time of a compressor, the temperature and humidity of indoor air, and the temperature of a second heat exchanger, and can effectively remove the water collected in the housing.

[0455] By determining the drainage speed of the drainage device based on the water level of the condensed water, the air conditioner can more effectively remove the water collected in the base.

[0456] By determining the rotation speed of the first fan based on the water level of the condensed water, the air conditioner can more effectively remove the water collected in the base.

[0457] Although various example embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present disclosure, which includes the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment described herein may be used in combination with any other embodiment described herein.

Claims

1. An air conditioner, comprising: A housing including a base; A first heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; A second heat exchanger disposed inside the housing and configured to exchange heat with indoor air; A compressor configured to compress a refrigerant for a heat exchange operation performed by the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger; A first fan disposed inside the housing and configured to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger; A drainage device configured to move condensed water condensed on the second heat exchanger inside the housing and collected in the base to the first heat exchanger; And A controller including at least one processor, the at least one processor including a processing circuit, the at least one processor being individually and / or jointly configured to: based on the operation stop of the compressor, control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor, and control the first fan to move air during the drainage time.

2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: based on the passage of the drainage time after the operation stop of the compressor, control the drainage device and the first fan to stop.

3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein Based on the operation time being less than a reference operation time, the at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a reference drainage time, and control the first fan to move air during the reference drainage time; And Based on the operation time being greater than or equal to the reference operation time, the at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time increased compared to the reference drainage time, and control the first fan to move air during the increased drainage time.

4. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: An indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller, Wherein the at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: determine the drainage time based on the operation time and the temperature of the indoor air.

5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: A second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger and electrically connected to the controller, Wherein the at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: determine the drainage time based on the operation time and the temperature of the second heat exchanger.

6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: A humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller, wherein at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to determine the drainage time based on the operation time and the humidity of the indoor air.

7. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: an indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the indoor air; a second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger; and a humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of the indoor air, wherein at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly electrically connected to the indoor temperature sensor, the second heat exchanger temperature sensor, and the humidity sensor, wherein, based on the operation time being less than a first operation time, the temperature difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than a reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than a reference humidity range, at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a first drainage time, and to control the first fan to move air during the first drainage time; and based on the operation time being greater than or equal to a second operation time greater than the first operation time, or based on the temperature difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being greater than or equal to the reference temperature difference, or based on the humidity of the indoor air being greater than or equal to the reference humidity range, at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a second drainage time greater than the first drainage time, and to control the first fan to move air during the second drainage time.

8. The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein, based on the operation time being less than the second operation time, the temperature difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being within the reference humidity range, at least one processor of the controller is individually and / or jointly configured to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a third drainage time greater than the first drainage time but less than the second drainage time, and to control the first fan to move air during the third drainage time.

9. The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein, Based on the operating time being greater than or equal to the first operating time but less than the second operating time, the temperature difference between the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the second heat exchanger being less than the reference temperature difference, and the humidity of the indoor air being less than or equal to the maximum humidity within the reference humidity range, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger during a third drainage time that is greater than the first drainage time but less than the second drainage time, and control the first fan to move air during the third drainage time.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: An indoor temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller; A second heat exchanger temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the second heat exchanger and electrically connected to the controller; And A humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of the indoor air and electrically connected to the controller, wherein at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: determine the drainage time based on the output value of the indoor temperature sensor, the output value of the second heat exchanger temperature sensor, and the output value of the humidity sensor when the operation of the compressor stops.

11. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The drainage device includes: A scattering wheel configured to be rotatable inside the housing and configured to scatter the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger based on its rotation; and A wheel drive motor configured to rotate the scattering wheel, wherein at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate during the drainage time.

12. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: A water level sensor configured to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base and electrically connected to the controller, wherein based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than a first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger at a first drainage speed; and based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger at a second drainage speed greater than the first drainage speed.

13. The air conditioner according to claim 12, wherein The drainage device includes: A scattering wheel configured to be rotatable inside the housing and configured to scatter the condensed water collected in the base to the first heat exchanger based on its rotation; and A wheel drive motor configured to rotate the scattering wheel, Wherein, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than the first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate at a first wheel rotation speed; and Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the wheel drive motor to allow the scattering wheel to rotate at a second wheel rotation speed greater than the first wheel rotation speed.

14. The air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising: A water level sensor configured to detect the water level of the condensed water collected in the base and electrically connected to the controller, Wherein, based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being less than the first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the first fan to rotate at a first fan rotation speed; and Based on the water level of the condensed water collected in the base being greater than or equal to the first water level, at least one processor of the controller is configured individually and / or jointly to: control the first fan to rotate at a second fan rotation speed greater than the first fan rotation speed.

15. A method for controlling an air conditioner, the air conditioner comprising: A first heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with outdoor air; A second heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with indoor air; A compressor configured to compress refrigerant; And a housing configured to accommodate the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the compressor, the method comprising: Stopping the operation of the compressor; Operating a drainage device to move the condensed water collected in the housing to the first heat exchanger during a drainage time determined based on the operation time of the compressor; and Operating a first fan to move air along a flow path passing through the first heat exchanger during the drainage time.

Images