Indoor unit of air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model relates to an indoor unit of an air conditioner. The indoor unit of the air conditioner provided by the embodiment of the utility model comprises the components of a housing which is provided with a suction inlet and a discharge outlet; a heat exchanger disposed inside the housing; an air blowing module unit that discharges air that has passed through the heat exchanger to the discharge port; and a blade module for switching the flow direction of the air discharged through the discharge port. The blade module includes: a blade housing; a blade capable of moving inside the blade housing; and a plurality of rollers for guiding the movement of the blades. A vertical line of gravity (G) of the blade may be located between a plurality of the rollers. As a result, it is possible to form a forward-directed airflow and a lateral-directed airflow through one air discharge port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to an indoor unit of an air conditioner, and more specifically, to an indoor unit of a vertical air conditioner. Background Technology

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

[0003] Air conditioners used in homes are mainly split-type air conditioners, which have an indoor heat exchanger and an indoor fan in the indoor unit, and an outdoor heat exchanger, an outdoor fan and a compressor in the outdoor unit. The indoor and outdoor units are connected by refrigerant piping. Split-type air conditioners can be divided into wall-mounted and freestanding types according to the form of the indoor unit.

[0004] A vertical air conditioner may include: a fan for generating airflow; a shroud provided on the intake side of the fan to guide the intake of air; and exhaust blades for switching the airflow of air discharged through the exhaust section.

[0005] In the case of existing air conditioners, the air outlet is located on the front of the indoor unit, thus creating a forward-directing airflow that exhausts air through the front of the indoor unit.

[0006] However, recently, there has been a growing demand for lateral airflow that exhausts air from the side of the indoor unit, rather than the forward airflow that exhausts air from the front of the indoor unit.

[0007] To generate lateral airflow, it is necessary to create an additional side outlet on the side of the indoor unit, and additional side blades are required to open and close the side outlet.

[0008] In addition, with the presence of additional discharge outlets and blades, there are problems such as a reduction in the airflow from the main discharge outlet, and a large resistance to the discharge flow due to the complex airflow path.

[0009] Patent Document 1: Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1403003 (May 27, 2014) Utility Model Content

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner that can generate both forward-directed and side-directed airflow through an air outlet.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner with blades that can easily switch the flow direction of air discharged through the air outlet.

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner that has hidden blades that can remain concealed and not be exposed from the outside.

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide an indoor unit of an air conditioner with blades that can be stably driven without shaking.

[0014] The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to this embodiment includes: a housing forming an intake port for air intake; a heat exchanger provided inside the housing; an air supply module connected to the housing, discharging air through the heat exchanger to a side outlet; and a hidden blade module for switching the flow direction of the air discharged through the side outlet.

[0015] The hidden blade module may include: a blade housing forming an internal space; a hidden blade capable of reciprocating inside the blade housing; and a blade cover combined with the blade housing to cover the hidden blade.

[0016] If the hidden blade moves, a portion of the hidden blade can be exposed to the outside of the blade housing and can be configured adjacent to the side outlet.

[0017] The air expelled through the side outlet can collide with a portion of the hidden blades, thereby changing the direction of the airflow.

[0018] The indoor unit may further include a blade drive unit disposed on the hidden blade, which provides a driving force for the reciprocating movement of the hidden blade.

[0019] The blade drive unit may include: a drive motor; a pinion gear connected to the motor shaft of the drive motor; and a rack disposed on the hidden blade and engaged with the pinion gear.

[0020] The indoor unit may also include a motor bracket, which is attached to the inside of the concealed blades to house the drive motor.

[0021] The motor bracket may have a guide rail, which engages with the inner side of the hidden blade to guide the reciprocating movement of the hidden blade.

[0022] The indoor unit may also include a plurality of rollers, which are coupled to the inner side of the concealed blades to support the concealed blades.

[0023] The vertical center line G of the hidden blade can be configured between a plurality of the rollers.

[0024] The indoor unit may also include a guide gear, which engages between the blade housing and the concealed blade to guide the reciprocating movement of the concealed blade.

[0025] The guide gear can engage with a rack disposed on the blade housing or the hidden blade.

[0026] The hidden blade may include: a blade body extending in a vertical direction; and a blade extension portion disposed on one side of the blade body, on which the blade drive portion is disposed.

[0027] The blade body can be formed by bending a single plate multiple times.

[0028] The blade body may include: a first part extending in a left-right direction; a second part bending forward from the end of the first part; and a third part extending laterally from the end of the second part.

[0029] The front of the housing is connected to the back of the air supply module. The intake port can be formed on the back of the housing, and the side outlet can be formed on the side of the air supply module.

[0030] The hidden blade module can be configured on the front of the air supply module, and the side outlet can be formed on the side of the air supply module adjacent to the hidden blade module.

[0031] The hidden blade can be configured to reciprocate in the left-right direction inside the blade housing.

[0032] The indoor unit may also include a side door assembly, which is connected to the air supply module and opens and closes the side outlet.

[0033] The side door assembly can be configured at an angle so that the air expelled through the side outlet forms a forward-facing airflow.

[0034] The air expelled through the side outlet collides with a portion of the hidden blade, thereby creating a lateral airflow.

[0035] The side door assembly may include: a side door for opening and closing the side outlet; a support frame for connecting with the side door and forming a guide hole for guiding the front-rear movement of the side door; and a side door drive unit for providing driving force to the support frame.

[0036] The guide gear may have teeth on its outer surface and be configured to rotate.

[0037] The guide gear may include a pinion.

[0038] The guide gear can engage with a rack disposed on the blade housing or the blade.

[0039] The rack can be formed by extending in the direction of the reciprocating movement of the blade.

[0040] The guide gear can be respectively disposed between the upper end of the blade housing and the upper end of the blade, and between the lower end of the blade housing and the lower end of the blade.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a hidden blade module is provided that can switch the flow direction of air discharged through a side outlet, thus having the advantage of being able to form both forward-directing and side-directing airflows through a single air outlet.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the present invention, if the hidden blade is driven, a portion of the hidden blade is exposed to the outside of the blade housing and is arranged adjacent to the side outlet. If the driving of the hidden blade ends, the hidden blade is introduced into the inside of the blade housing and remains hidden, thus having the advantage of a neat appearance.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of rollers supporting the hidden blade are provided on the inner side of the hidden blade, thus having the advantage of minimizing the load on the hidden blade and preventing the hidden blade from tilting.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a guide gear is provided between the concealed blade and the blade housing to suppress excessive tilting through toothed meshing, thus providing the advantage that the concealed blade can be driven stably without wobbling. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a rear perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a front perspective view showing the indoor unit of the air conditioner in an embodiment of the present invention with the side door open.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view showing the open state of the side blade module of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0050] Figure 6 It is along Figure 1Section 6-6 is a cross-sectional view showing the heat exchange assembly and the lower housing.

[0051] Figure 7 This is a rear perspective view showing the structure of the air supply module of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the air supply module section with a protective housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 9 It is magnification Figure 8 The diagram of part "A".

[0054] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the shape of the air supply module section in an embodiment of the present invention, open relative to the protective housing.

[0055] Figure 11 It is magnification Figure 10 The diagram for part "B".

[0056] Figure 12 This is a front perspective view showing the side blade module of the air supply fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view showing the side blade module of the air supply fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the shape of the side blades and the blade drive part of the side blade module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 15 This is a rear perspective view showing a portion of the side blade module of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 16 This is a rear perspective view showing the shape of the side blades of the side blade module of this utility model after the side blades have been moved, according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0061] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the rollers in the side blade module of this utility model embodiment.

[0062] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the guide gear of the side blade module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 19 It is along Figure 3 Sectional view of section 21-21. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings of the indoor unit of the air conditioner used to illustrate various embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a rear perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a front perspective view showing the indoor unit of the air conditioner in an embodiment of the present invention with the side door open. Figure 4 This is a front perspective view showing the indoor unit of the air conditioner in an embodiment of the present invention with the side blade module open. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0066] Reference Figures 1 to 5 This invention describes the overall component structure of the indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and describes the structure of each component.

[0067] [Definition of direction]

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to this embodiment can be configured to draw in air through the intake port 1210, and the drawn-in air undergoes heat exchange when passing through the heat exchanger 3100. The air that has undergone heat exchange in the heat exchanger 3100 can be discharged through the exhaust port 2111 after passing through the blower fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0069] The direction in which air drawn in from the intake port 1210 flows toward the heat exchanger 3100 and the blower fans 212, 222, 232 can be defined as "forward". In this context, it can be understood that air flows forward from the intake port 1210 toward the heat exchanger 3100, and forward from the heat exchanger 3100 toward the blower fans 212, 222, 232.

[0070] Conversely, the direction from the air supply fans 212, 222, 232 via the heat exchanger 3100 toward the intake port 1210 can be defined as "rear".

[0071] The direction of air flowing from the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 toward the discharge port 2111 can be defined as "side". This can be understood as follows: when a plurality of discharge ports 2111 are provided, any one of the discharge ports 2111 is located on one side or the left side of the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232, while another discharge port 2111 is located on the other side or the right side of the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0072] The indoor unit may include: a flow generating section forming a space for configuring a heat exchanger 3100 and air supply fans 212, 222, and 232; and a mechanical compartment configuring a control box or drainage pipes for the operation of the indoor unit. The arrangement direction of the flow generating section and the mechanical compartment can be defined as vertical. Specifically, the flow generating section may be located above the mechanical compartment, and the mechanical compartment may be located below the flow generating section.

[0073] From different perspectives, the indoor unit may also include a decorative cabinet shelf, and the orientation of the flow generating part and the decorative cabinet shelf can be defined as the "vertical direction". In particular, the flow generating part may be located above the decorative cabinet shelf, and the decorative cabinet shelf may be located below the flow generating part.

[0074] From different perspectives, the air supply fan can be provided in multiple ways, and the direction in which the multiple air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 are arranged can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0075] [Overall Structure of the Indoor Unit]

[0076] The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to this embodiment may include: a housing assembly 1000 forming a front appearance and a rear appearance; a fan assembly 2000 disposed inside the housing assembly 1000 to create airflow; a heat exchange assembly 3000 to exchange heat between the air flowing through the fan assembly 2000 and the refrigerant; and a filter assembly 4000 to filter the air flowing into the inside of the housing assembly 1000.

[0077] [Housing Assembly]

[0078] The housing assembly 1000 of this utility model embodiment includes a main body rear housing 1200, which has an air intake 1210 for drawing air in from the rear. An installation space for a heat exchange assembly 3000, in which a heat exchanger 3100 is disposed, is formed on the inner side of the main body rear housing 1200. The main body rear housing 1200 forms the upper rear appearance of the indoor unit.

[0079] From the perspective of housing the heat exchange assembly 3000 internally, the main body rear housing 1200 can be named a heat exchanger housing.

[0080] The housing assembly 1000 includes a main front housing 1100, which is disposed in front of the main rear housing 1200 and forms the upper front appearance. Major components such as the heat exchange assembly 3000 and the filter assembly 4000 may be disposed inside the housing assembly 1000.

[0081] The front shell 1100 and the back shell 1200 of the main body can be referred to as the upper shell 1100 and 1200, respectively. For ease of explanation, the back shell 1200 of the main body can also be referred to as the first shell, and the front shell 1100 of the main body can be referred to as the second shell.

[0082] Additionally, the housing assembly 1000 includes a lower housing 5000 disposed below the upper housings 1100 and 1200, and a space for a machine compartment is formed inside the lower housing 5000, which supports the upper housings 1100 and 1200.

[0083] The upper housing 1100, 1200, has a main body rear housing 1200 with an intake port 1210 for drawing in indoor air from the room where the indoor unit is installed. The intake port 1210 can be formed on the back of the main body rear housing 1200 with a defined area. When the air supply fan assembly 2000 is driven to make air flow, indoor air is drawn in from the intake port 1210, and the drawn-in air flows to the air supply module section 2100 of the air supply fan assembly 2000 via the heat exchanger 3100 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 disposed on the inlet side of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0084] The main body front casing 1100 includes a display unit 1110 for displaying the operating status of the indoor unit or for inputting user commands. In this embodiment of the invention, the display unit 1110 is positioned at eye level, taking into account the user's line of sight.

[0085] Spaces for arranging the air supply fan assembly 2000, the heat exchange assembly 3000, and the filter assembly 4000 are formed inside the upper housings 1100 and 1200.

[0086] The air supply fan assembly 2000 of this utility model embodiment can be configured at the rear of the front housing 1100 of the main body, and the heat exchange assembly 3000 can be configured at the front of the rear housing 1200 of the main body.

[0087] The air supply fan assembly 2000 may include a top cover 2140 disposed on the upper side of the air supply module 2100.

[0088] The top cover 2140 can form the top surface appearance of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The top cover 2140 can be detachably attached to the upper side of the air supply module 2100. The top cover 2140 can provide an open top surface covering the air supply module 2100. As an example, the top cover 2140 can be formed in the shape of a quadrilateral panel.

[0089] From the perspective of forming the top surface appearance of the indoor unit, the top cover 2140 can be understood as a component of the housing assembly 1000.

[0090] From the perspective of forming the side appearance of the indoor unit, the side door assembly 2130 described later can be understood as a component of the housing assembly 1000.

[0091] As described above, the housing assembly 1000 can be understood to include a plurality of components separated to form the appearance of the indoor unit, namely, the main front housing 1100, the main rear housing 1200, the lower housing 5000, the top cover 2140, and the side door assembly 2130. However, two or more of the plurality of components may also be integrally formed, and one of the plurality of components may be omitted.

[0092] Figure 6 It is along Figure 1 Section 6-6 is a cross-sectional view showing the heat exchange assembly and the lower housing.

[0093] Figure 6 This indicates the removal of the air supply fan assembly and shows the relative configuration of the heat exchange assembly and the lower housing.

[0094] Reference Figure 6 The lower housing 5000 is located below the upper housings 1100 and 1200, and supports the upper housings 1100 and 1200 by being supported on the ground where the indoor unit is installed.

[0095] The lower housing 5000 includes: a main control box (not shown), on the inner side of the lower housing 5000, which houses control components for the operation of the air conditioner; and a lower housing body 5100, forming a space for piping such as drain pipes for the flow of condensate generated in the heat exchanger 3100. The main control box may be located in the center of the inner side of the lower housing body 5100 and supported within the lower housing body 5100.

[0096] The lower shell body 5100 is in the shape of a box with an open front, and is supported on the ground to form a space such as a machine room inside.

[0097] The lower housing 5000 includes a base back portion 5400 that forms the rear appearance of the lower part of the indoor unit.

[0098] The base back portion 5400 is approximately "U" shaped to cover the sides and rear of the lower housing 5000. The base back portion 5400 can be configured on the outside of the lower housing 5000 to enhance the rigidity of the lower housing 5000.

[0099] The back surface 5400 of the base may have: a refrigerant pipe hole 5401, through which a refrigerant pipe 3200 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 passes; and a drain pipe hole 5402, through which a drain pipe for discharging condensate generated in the heat exchanger 3100 passes. The refrigerant pipe hole 5401 and the drain pipe hole 5402 may be formed in communication with the lower housing body 5100.

[0100] The lower housing 5000 may also include a decorative cabinet shelf 5200 disposed in front of the lower housing body 5100.

[0101] The lower housing 5000 includes a base front portion 5300, which is combined with the front of the decorative cabinet shelf 5200 to form the lower front appearance.

[0102] The base front portion 5300 can cover the open front of the decorative cabinet shelf 5200. The base front portion 5300 can be configured on the outside of the lower housing 5000 to enhance the rigidity of the lower housing 5000.

[0103] An indoor unit of a vertical air conditioner can be formed by combining an upper housing 1100 and 1200, which includes a front housing 1100 and a rear housing 1200, and a lower housing 5000, which includes a lower housing body 5100, a base front portion 5300, and a base back portion 5400.

[0104] [Heat Exchange Components]

[0105] The heat exchange assembly 3000 allows indoor air drawn into the upper housing 1100, 1200 to exchange heat with the refrigerant.

[0106] The heat exchange assembly 3000 may include: a heat exchanger 3100 in which refrigerant that exchanges heat with indoor air flows; and a refrigerant pipe 3200 that forms a refrigerant flow path so that refrigerant flows into or out of the heat exchanger 3100.

[0107] The refrigerant pipe 3200 may include: a refrigerant inlet pipe 3210, through which refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger 3100 flows; and a refrigerant outlet pipe 3220, through which refrigerant discharged from the heat exchanger 3100 flows. In embodiments of this invention, the refrigerant inlet pipe 3210 or the refrigerant outlet pipe 3220 may extend to the back surface portion 5400 of the base of the lower housing 5000 and may be led outward through the refrigerant pipe hole 5401.

[0108] The heat exchanger 3100 can be configured behind the air supply fan assembly 2000. The heat exchanger 3100 can be configured between the intake 1210 and the side exhaust 2111 to exchange heat with the air flowing inside the indoor unit.

[0109] The heat exchanger 3100 can be a cuboid shape extending vertically, and can be formed as the housing body 2310 facing the protective housing 2300. The heat exchanger 3100 is disposed between the filter assembly 4000 and the air supply fan assembly 2000. The heat exchanger 3100 can have a length corresponding to the height of the plurality of air supply module sections 2100 arranged vertically.

[0110] The heat exchanger 3100 can be configured inside the back housing 1200 of the main body.

[0111] The main body rear shell 1200 may have the shape of a cover with a front opening. The main body rear shell 1200 may include: a rear portion 1201 forming the intake port 1210; and a first side portion 1202 and a second side portion 1203 forming two side surfaces. The main body rear shell 1200 may include a top portion 1204 forming a top surface.

[0112] The heat exchanger 3100 can be configured in the space defined by the rear portion 1201, the first side portion 1202, the second side portion 1203, and the top portion 1204.

[0113] The heat exchanger 3100 can be fastened and supported by a heat exchanger fastening part (not shown) formed inside the back shell 1200 of the main body.

[0114] [Filtering Components]

[0115] The filter assembly 4000 of this embodiment can remove foreign objects included in the air flowing into the intake port 1210. The filter assembly 4000 can be detachably disposed at the rear of the main body rear housing 1200. The filter assembly 4000 can be configured at the intake port 1210 formed at the rear of the main body rear housing 1200 and filter the indoor air flowing into the intake port 1210.

[0116] The filter assembly 4000 includes a filter module 4100, which removes foreign objects from the air drawn into the intake port 1210. The filter module 4100 of the filter assembly 4000 is disposed at the intake port 1210.

[0117] The filter module 4100 may include: a first filter module 4110 covering the left side of the intake port 1210 of the back shell 1200 of the main body; and a second filter module 4120 covering the right side of the intake port 1210 of the back shell 1200 of the main body.

[0118] The filter module 4100 may include: a pre-filter (not shown) for filtering large dust particles in the air flowing into the intake 1210; a dust collection filter (not shown) for filtering air by collecting ionized air particles; and a deodorizing filter (not shown) for filtering odors in the air.

[0119] The filter module 4100 may include a filter housing 4200 for mounting a pre-filter. A plurality of intake ports 1210 are formed in the filter housing 4200 along the direction in which the pre-filter is mounted. The filter housing 4200 may include vertical ribs 4220 and horizontal ribs 4230 on the surface where the pre-filter is mounted.

[0120] The vertical ribs 4220 and horizontal ribs 4230 can form a grid pattern to enhance the rigidity of the filter housing 4200. The pre-filter can be formed as a mesh screen to filter large foreign objects in the air flowing into the filter module 4100.

[0121] [Air supply fan assembly]

[0122] Figure 7 This is a rear perspective view showing the structure of the air supply module section according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This figure shows the configuration of the air supply module section with a protective housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 It is magnification Figure 8 The diagram of part "A", Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the shape of the air supply module section open relative to the protective housing according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 It is magnification Figure 10 The diagram for part "B".

[0123] Reference Figures 7 to 11 In this embodiment of the invention, the air supply fan assembly 2000 is disposed at the rear of the front housing 1100 of the main body. Additionally, the air supply fan assembly 2000 is disposed at the front of the rear housing 1200 of the main body.

[0124] The air supply fan assembly 2000 includes an air supply module 2100 that discharges air to the front of the indoor unit. Preferably, a plurality of air supply modules 2100 are provided; in embodiments of the present invention, three air supply modules 2100 may be provided.

[0125] Since the indoor unit is a vertically oriented unit that extends longitudinally, the air supply module 2100 can be configured vertically.

[0126] The air supply module 2100 can be positioned in front of the heat exchange assembly 3000 and discharges the air that has undergone heat exchange in the heat exchange assembly 3000 to the side outlet 2111 provided on the discharge section 2110. At this time, the flow direction of the flowing air can be switched by the side blade module 2200 provided on the side outlet 2111.

[0127] The side outlet 2111 can provide an outlet grille 2112.

[0128] The air supply module 2100 of this utility model embodiment may include a first air supply module 210, a second air supply module 220 and a third air supply module 230.

[0129] The first air supply module 210 can blow air to the side outlet 2111.

[0130] The first air supply module 210 includes: a first air supply motor 211, providing rotational power; a first air supply fan 212, connected to the first air supply motor 211; and a first air supply housing 213, supporting the first air supply fan 212 to be rotatable, disposed on the outside of the first air supply fan 212, guiding the movement of air.

[0131] A portion of the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 moves toward the inside of the first air supply housing 213. Furthermore, the air expelled to the outside of the first air supply housing 213 by the operation of the first air supply fan 212 can flow toward the side outlet 2111 and be expelled to the outside.

[0132] The first air supply fan 212 may include a centrifugal fan that draws in air axially and discharges it radially.

[0133] The first air supply fan 212 may include a hub 212a that rotates via a motor shaft coupled to the first air supply motor 211. The hub 212a may include a shaft engagement portion 212d that engages with the motor shaft.

[0134] The hub 212a may have a rearward protruding bowl shape to provide space for accommodating the first air supply motor 211.

[0135] The shaft coupling portion 212d can be disposed at the center of the hub 212a and engage with the motor shaft passing through the hub 212a. Through the shaft coupling portion 212d, the hub 212a and the shaft coupling portion 212d can be firmly joined.

[0136] The first air supply fan 212 may further include a plurality of blades 212b spaced apart along the periphery of the hub 212a. The plurality of blades 212b may be arranged circumferentially. One end of each blade 212b may be engaged with the outer surface of the hub 212a.

[0137] The first air supply fan 212 may further include an edge portion 212c forming the front end portion of the intake side of the first air supply fan 212. The edge portion 212c may be configured at a position slightly spaced from the intake side than the hub 212a.

[0138] The edge 212c may form an intake hole 212e for drawing in the air. The intake hole 212e defines the inner space of the edge 212c.

[0139] As an example, the edge portion 212c may be ring-shaped.

[0140] The other end of the blade 212b can be combined with the edge portion 212c.

[0141] The first air supply housing 213 may include a motor support portion that supports the first air supply motor 211. The hub 212a may be placed on the outer surface of the motor support portion.

[0142] The motor support may be bowl-shaped and protrude rearward to form a space for accommodating the first air supply motor 211.

[0143] The motor support portion may have a through hole through which the motor shaft of the first air supply motor 211 passes. The through hole may be formed at the center of the motor support portion.

[0144] The motor shaft of the first air supply motor 211 can pass through the motor support and be connected to the hub 212a.

[0145] The second air supply module 220, located below the first air supply module 210, blows air through the side outlet 2111. The second air supply module 220 includes: a second air supply motor 221, providing rotational power; a second air supply fan 222, connected to the second air supply motor 221; and a second air supply housing 223, supporting the second air supply fan 222 so that it can rotate, and disposed outside the second air supply fan 222 to guide the movement of air.

[0146] The second air supply module 220 has the same configuration as the first air supply module 210. Therefore, the description of the second air supply module 220 can refer to the aforementioned content of the first air supply module 210.

[0147] Another portion of the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 moves toward the inside of the second air supply housing 223. Furthermore, the air expelled to the outside of the second air supply housing 223 by the operation of the second air supply fan 222 can flow toward the side outlet 2111 and be expelled to the outside.

[0148] The third air supply module 230, located below the second air supply module 220, blows air through the side outlet 2111. The third air supply module 230 includes: a third air supply motor 231, providing rotational power; a third air supply fan 232, connected to the third air supply motor 231; and a third air supply housing 233, supporting the third air supply fan 232 so that it can rotate, and disposed outside the third air supply fan 232 to guide the movement of air.

[0149] The third air supply module 230 has the same configuration as the first air supply module 210. Therefore, the description of the third air supply module 230 can refer to the aforementioned content of the first air supply module 210.

[0150] A portion of the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 moves toward the inside of the third air supply housing 233. Furthermore, the air expelled to the outside of the third air supply housing 233 by the operation of the third air supply fan 232 can flow toward the side outlet 2111 and be expelled to the outside.

[0151] Here, the first air supply fan 212, the second air supply fan 222, and the third air supply fan 232 can be centrifugal fans that allow air to flow in axially and be discharged radially through the side outlet 2111.

[0152] The centrifugal fan can have mechanical characteristics of large air volume and high static pressure performance.

[0153] The air supply module section 2100 may only have a first air supply module 210 and a second air supply module 220, or it may include various modified embodiments where an air supply module is also included on the lower side of the third air supply module 230, as needed.

[0154] The air supply module 2100 of this utility model embodiment may have a partition wall 214, which includes a first partition wall 214a, a second partition wall 214b and a third partition wall 214c.

[0155] The first partition wall 214a can be formed to separate the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220 between the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220. The first partition wall 214a can be arranged horizontally between the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220.

[0156] The first partition wall 214a can contact the first corresponding partition wall 215a of the corresponding protective housing 2300, thereby allowing the flowing air to be contained within the first air supply module 210.

[0157] Therefore, the movement of air from the first air supply module 210 to the second air supply module 220 is blocked, and the movement of air from the second air supply module 220 to the first air supply module 210 is blocked, so that the air supply actions of the first air supply module 210 and the second air supply module 220 can be realized independently.

[0158] The second partition wall 214b can be formed to separate the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230 between the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230. The second partition wall 214b can be arranged horizontally between the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230.

[0159] The second partition wall 214b can contact the second corresponding partition wall 215b of the corresponding protective housing 2300, thereby allowing the flowing air to be contained within the second air supply module 220.

[0160] Therefore, the movement of air from the second air supply module 220 to the third air supply module 230 is blocked, and the movement of air from the third air supply module 230 to the second air supply module 220 is also blocked, so that the air supply actions of the second air supply module 220 and the third air supply module 230 can be realized independently.

[0161] The third partition wall 214c can be formed on the lower side of the third air supply module 230. The third partition wall 214c can be arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0162] The third partition wall 214c can contact the third corresponding partition wall 215c of the corresponding protective housing 2300, thereby confining the flowing air within the third air supply module 230.

[0163] Therefore, by blocking the movement of air expelled from the third air supply module 230 to the lower side of the third air supply module 230, the air supply action of the third air supply module 230 can be achieved independently.

[0164] The number of such partition wall sections 214 and corresponding partition wall sections 215 can be determined according to the number of air supply module sections 2100.

[0165] At least one of the partition wall portion 214 and the corresponding partition wall portion 215 may be provided with concave and convex portions 216, 217, 219 that can improve airflow performance.

[0166] The protrusions and depressions may include a first protrusion and depression 216 disposed on the partition wall portion 214. The first protrusion and depression 216 can reduce frictional resistance when the rotational flow generated during the rotation of the air supply fan collides with the partition wall portion 214.

[0167] The partition wall portion 214 may include a mounting surface that extends obliquely or with an arc along the outer peripheral surface of the air supply fan, and the first concave-convex portion 216 may be disposed on the mounting surface.

[0168] The mounting surface can be formed as an edge 212c facing the air supply fan.

[0169] The first uneven portion 216 may be configured with alternating protrusions and recesses. From a different viewpoint, the first uneven portion 216 may be configured to include a plurality of grooves formed in the recess of the disposed surface.

[0170] If the air supply fan is driven, airflow is generated along the setting surface. The frictional resistance of the airflow with the setting surface is reduced when it passes through the first protrusion 216, and the flow performance can be improved.

[0171] The first concave-convex portion 216 can be disposed in each of the first to third air supply modules 210, 220, 230, corresponding to the first air supply module to the third air supply module 214a, 214b, 214c.

[0172] The protrusions and depressions may include a second protrusion and depression 217 disposed on the corresponding partition wall portion 215. The second protrusion and depression 217 can reduce frictional resistance when the rotational flow generated during the rotation of the air supply fan collides with the corresponding partition wall portion 215.

[0173] The corresponding partition wall 215 may include a mounting surface that is inclined or extends with an arc along the outer peripheral surface of the air supply fan, and the second concave-convex portion 217 may be disposed on the mounting surface.

[0174] The mounting surface can be formed as an edge 212c facing the air supply fan.

[0175] The second uneven portion 217 may be configured with alternating protrusions and recesses. From a different viewpoint, the second uneven portion 217 may include a plurality of grooves formed by recesses in the disposed surface.

[0176] If the air supply fan is driven, airflow is generated along the setting surface. The frictional resistance of the airflow with the setting surface is reduced when it passes through the second protrusion 217, and the flow performance can be improved.

[0177] The second concave-convex portion 217 can be disposed in each of the first to third corresponding partition walls 215a, 215b, 215c, corresponding to the first to third air supply modules 210, 220, 230.

[0178] If the air supply module 2100 is rotated to cover the protective housing 2300 and joined together, the partition wall 214 and the corresponding partition wall 215 will contact each other, and the first protrusion 216 and the second protrusion 217 can be configured to contact each other or be very close to each other.

[0179] Therefore, the first and second protrusions 216 and 217 can have a shape that is continuously arranged in the front-back direction. According to the configuration described above, the area of ​​the protrusions on the outer periphery of the blower fan is increased, thereby further reducing frictional resistance.

[0180] The protrusions and depressions may include third protrusions and depressions 219 disposed on the air supply housings 213, 223, and 233. The third protrusions and depressions 219 disposed on the first to third air supply housings 213, 223, and 233 have the same configuration, and are therefore collectively referred to as air supply housings and described herein.

[0181] The air supply housing may include: a first part forming the back side and having a flat surface; and a second part protruding rearward from the first part and having a motor support portion.

[0182] The first part can be configured to surround the perimeter of the second part.

[0183] The third concave-convex portion 219 may be disposed on the first portion.

[0184] The third protrusion 219 can be formed with an arc shape with a curvature corresponding to the rotation direction of the air supply fan.

[0185] The third protrusion 219 can be formed with an arc shape corresponding to the path of airflow generated by the blower fan.

[0186] The third protrusion 219 may include ribs protruding from the flat surface of the first portion. A plurality of ribs may be provided, and the plurality of ribs may be spaced apart from each other.

[0187] The extension angles of the plurality of ribs may be different from each other. As an example, the angles formed by the plurality of ribs relative to the extension line passing through the center of the air supply fan in the vertical direction may be different from each other.

[0188] Based on the configuration described above, when generating airflow based on the rotation of the blower fan, the airflow is easily guided towards the discharge side of the blower fan. Here, the discharge side refers to the two-sided direction of the blower fan, which can be understood as the direction in which the side discharge port 2111 is formed.

[0189] A protective housing 2300 may be included in front of the heat exchanger 3100 of the heat exchange assembly 3000 to guide air through the heat exchanger 3100 to the air supply module 2100.

[0190] The protective housing 2300 is disposed between the outlet side of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet side of the air supply module 2100.

[0191] The protective housing 2300 of this utility model embodiment can function to draw in air that has passed through the heat exchanger 3100 along the axial direction of the fan.

[0192] Since the outlet side of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet side of the air supply module 2100 are connected by the protective housing 2300, the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 can move stably toward the air supply module 2100.

[0193] At this time, the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 moves along the curved protective housing 2300, thus reducing the flow separation of the air moving from the heat exchanger 3100 to the inlet side of the air supply module 2100.

[0194] A horizontal base 3110 is provided between the heat exchanger 3100 and the lower housing body 5100. The horizontal base 3110 can be located on the lower side of the air supply module 2100, which can prevent the air supply module 2100 from sinking to the lower side.

[0195] A roller bracket 2400 for accommodating rollers (not shown) may be provided at the lower end of the air supply module 2100. The rollers are configured to roll in contact with the horizontal base 3110, thereby guiding smooth rotation when the air supply module 2100 rotates relative to the protective housing 2300.

[0196] The roller bracket 2400 is rotatably mounted on the upper side of the horizontal base 3110, which can prevent the air supply module 2110 from sinking downward together with the horizontal base 3110.

[0197] Furthermore, since a protective housing 2300 is provided between the outlet side of the heat exchanger 3100 and the inlet side of the air supply module 2100, pressure loss of the air supply airflow can be prevented. In addition, flow noise can be reduced by reducing the generation of eddies caused by flow separation of the air supply airflow inside the upper housings 1100 and 1200.

[0198] Therefore, the protective housing 2300 may have a housing body 2310 and an inhalation guide 2320, the inhalation guide 2320 being disposed on the housing body 2310 and forming an inhalation opening 2321. As an example, the housing body 2310 may have a quadrilateral plate shape, and the inhalation opening 2321 may have a circular shape.

[0199] From the perspective of providing the intake side channels for the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232, the intake guide 2320 can also be referred to as an "orifice".

[0200] The width of the housing body 2310 can be formed to be slightly larger than the width of the heat exchanger 3100, so as to cover the heat exchanger 3100 as a whole, thereby allowing the air passing through the heat exchanger 3100 to flow smoothly into the air supply module 2100.

[0201] The protective housing 2300 is disposed between the heat exchanger 3100 and the air supply module 2100, and forms a guide flow path for guiding the air that passes through the heat exchanger 3100 to the inlet side of the air supply module 2100.

[0202] The housing body 2310 may include a plate portion 2330 forming the periphery of the inhalation guide portion 2320. The plate portion 2330 may have a flat plate shape connecting the corners of the inhalation guide portion 2320 and the housing body 2310.

[0203] The plate portion 2330 is configured to connect with the intake guide portion 2320 and face the air supply module portion 2100.

[0204] The intake guide 2320 can be configured to guide the air that has passed through the heat exchanger 3100 to the air supply module 2100.

[0205] The intake guide 2320 can be formed in multiples to correspond to the air supply module 2100. For example, they can be arranged in a vertical direction. Each intake guide 2320 can contact the rear side of the first air supply housing 213, the second air supply housing 223, and the third air supply housing 233 so that the air passing through the intake guide 2320 can be transmitted to the inside of the air supply fan assembly 2000 without air leakage.

[0206] The inhalation guide 2320 may include a first inhalation guide, a second inhalation guide, and a third inhalation guide, respectively corresponding to the first to third air supply modules 210, 220, and 230. The first inhalation guide may be flowably connected to the first air supply module 210, the second inhalation guide may be flowably connected to the second air supply module 220, and the third inhalation guide may be flowably connected to the third air supply module 230.

[0207] The first inhalation guide to the third inhalation guide may be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0208] The first inhalation guide to the third inhalation guide has the same configuration as each other, and therefore is referred to as inhalation guide 320 below and will be described.

[0209] The inhalation guide 2320 may include an edge portion 2322 that defines the inhalation opening 2321. The edge portion 2322 may include the peripheral surface of the inhalation guide 2320 formed by the inhalation opening 2321.

[0210] The edge portion 2322 can be connected to the plate portion 2330.

[0211] The edge portion 2322 may include a portion protruding in the direction in which air is blown from the plate portion 2330 and a portion protruding in the direction in which air is drawn into the fan from the plate portion 2330.

[0212] The edge portion 2322 may include a portion located behind the plate portion 2330, i.e., towards the heat exchanger 3100, and a portion located in front of the plate portion 2330, i.e., towards the first air supply fan 212.

[0213] The edge portion 2322 may form a bell-shaped opening to guide air drawn into the first air supply module to the third air supply modules 210, 220, and 230. The bell-shaped opening may include the inflow-side front end portion of the edge portion 2322 that is closest to the heat exchanger 3100.

[0214] The protective housing 2300 includes a corresponding partition wall portion 215, which faces and contacts the partition wall portion 214 of the air supply module portion 2100. The corresponding partition wall portion 215 includes a first corresponding partition wall 215a, a second corresponding partition wall 215b, and a third corresponding partition wall 215c.

[0215] The first corresponding partition wall 215a can be formed to separate the first suction guide portion and the second suction guide portion. The first corresponding partition wall 215a is arranged horizontally in relation to the first partition wall 214a, and protrudes forward from the boundary between the first suction guide portion and the second suction guide portion to contact the first partition wall 214a.

[0216] Therefore, by blocking the movement of air expelled through the first intake guide to the second intake guide and blocking the movement of air expelled through the second intake guide to the first intake guide, the air supply actions of the first and second intake guides can be achieved independently.

[0217] The second corresponding partition wall 215b can be formed to separate the second suction guide and the third suction guide. The second corresponding partition wall 215b is arranged horizontally in relation to the second partition wall 214b, and protrudes forward from the boundary between the second suction guide and the third suction guide to contact the second partition wall 214b.

[0218] Therefore, the movement of air expelled through the second intake guide to the third intake guide is blocked, and the movement of air expelled through the third intake guide to the third intake guide is also blocked, so that the air supply actions of the second intake guide and the third intake guide can be achieved independently.

[0219] The third corresponding partition wall 215c may be formed on the lower side of the third suction guide. The third corresponding partition wall 215c is arranged horizontally in relation to the third partition wall 214c, and protrudes forward from the lower side of the third suction guide to contact the third partition wall 214c.

[0220] Therefore, by blocking the movement of air expelled from the third intake guide section to the lower side of the third intake guide section, the air supply action of the third intake guide section can be achieved independently.

[0221] The air supply module 2100 and the protective housing 2300 can constitute a "fan cover" that houses the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232. The fan cover can form an internal space that accommodates the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0222] The fan housing may be configured such that the internal space is open, so that the user can easily access the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232.

[0223] From different perspectives, the fan housing can be configured such that at least a portion of it can be separated from another portion to open up the internal space of the fan housing.

[0224] As an example, the air supply module 2100 can be opened and closed in the front-to-back direction by rotating relative to the protective housing 2300 using the hinge 2430.

[0225] The hinge part 2430 includes an upper hinge 2431 and a lower hinge 2432.

[0226] The upper hinge 2431 is located on the upper side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 and the protective housing 2300, and the lower hinge 2432 is located on the lower side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 and the protective housing 2300.

[0227] The main body front shell 1100 and the air supply module 2100 are rotatably connected to the protective shell 2300 via an upper hinge 2431 and a lower hinge 2432. The air supply module 2100 can rotate and open in front of the protective shell 2300 with the hinge 2430 as the center.

[0228] When the air supply module 2100 is opened from the protective housing 2300 at a predetermined angle, the air supply housings 213, 223, and 233 of the air supply module 2100 and the air supply fans 212, 222, and 232 can be opened to the outside, and the front of the protective housing 2300 facing the air supply module 2100 can also be opened to the outside. Therefore, the user can clean the separated air supply module 2100 and the dust and other foreign objects collected in the protective housing 2300.

[0229] When the air supply module 2100 is closed in the protective housing 2300, that is, when it constitutes a fan cover, it is necessary to seal the internal space of the fan cover to prevent air leakage.

[0230] In detail, the partition wall portion 214 of the air supply module portion 2100 may include a contact surface 283, which contacts the corresponding partition wall portion 215 of the protective housing 2300 when the air supply module portion 2100 is closed by the protective housing 2300.

[0231] The contact surface 283 may be formed on the back side of the partition wall portion 214.

[0232] The partition wall portion 214 may include a first protruding rib 281 and a second protruding rib 282. The first protruding rib 281 and the second protruding rib 282 may protrude rearward from both ends of the partition wall portion 214. As an example, the first protruding rib 281 may be disposed at the lower end of the partition wall portion 214, and the second protruding rib 282 may be disposed at the upper end of the partition wall portion 214.

[0233] The contact surface 283 may be formed between the first protruding rib 281 and the second protruding rib 282.

[0234] Each of the first partition wall to the third partition wall 214a to 214c may be provided with a first protruding rib 281, a second protruding rib 282, and a contact surface 283.

[0235] The upper part of the first air supply module 210 may include a first guide wall 250. The first guide wall 250 may be configured to protrude rearward from the air supply housing 213 and contact the upper part of the protective housing 2300. A groove may be formed in the first guide wall 250 to engage with the upper hinge 2431.

[0236] The first guide wall 250 has a structure substantially similar to that of the first to third partition walls 214a, 214b, and 214c, and can be understood as a component of the partition wall portion 214. For ease of explanation, the first guide wall 250 can be referred to as the "fourth partition wall".

[0237] The first protruding rib 281 may be provided at the lower end of the first guide wall 250.

[0238] An air handling device 260 for handling air passing through the air supply module may be provided on at least one of the first partition wall to the third partition walls 214a-214c and the first guide wall 250.

[0239] As an example, the air handling device 260 may be provided on the first partition wall 214a, the second partition wall 214b and the first guide wall 250.

[0240] The air handling unit 260 may include a sterilization device for sterilizing the air. As an example, the sterilization device may include an ultraviolet lamp that emits ultraviolet light or an ion generator.

[0241] As another example, a sensor device 260 for sensing the temperature or humidity of the air can be installed on either of the first or second partition walls located on both sides of the air supply fan.

[0242] The protective housing 2300 may have a mounting slot 265 for accommodating the air handling device 260. The mounting slot 265 may be provided at a position where the air handling device 260 can be inserted when the air supply module 2100 is closed by the protective housing 2300.

[0243] The protective housing 2300 may include a protrusion 285 configured to contact the contact surface 283 of the air supply module 2100.

[0244] The protrusion 285 is disposed on the first corresponding partition wall to the third corresponding partition wall 215a-215c and the second guide wall 255. Specifically, it can protrude forward from the front of the first corresponding partition wall to the third corresponding partition wall 215a-215c and the second guide wall 255.

[0245] The second guide wall 255 is the upper side wall of the protective housing 2300 and can be configured to contact the first guide wall 250.

[0246] When the air supply module 2100 is closed within the protective housing 2300, the protrusion 285 can be configured to contact the contact surface 283 between the first protruding rib 281 and the second protruding rib 282. This combination structure (contact structure) improves the sealing effect of the air supply module 2100 and the protective housing 2300 that constitute the fan cover.

[0247] On the other hand, discharge portions 2110 are provided on both sides of the air supply module 2100, and side discharge ports 2111 are formed in the discharge portions 2110.

[0248] The discharge portion 2110 can be disposed on the side of the air supply fan assembly 2000. Side discharge ports 2111 can be formed on both sides of the discharge portion 2110 to discharge air flowing from the air supply module 2100 to the outside.

[0249] Side door assemblies 2130 with opening and closing side discharge ports 2111 are provided on the discharge portions 2110 located on both sides of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The side door assemblies 2130 can be formed separately from the discharge portions 2110.

[0250] The side door assembly 2130 can be configured to extend from the upper end of the upper housing 1100, 1200 of the housing assembly 1000 to the boundary of the lower housing 5000 with a specified width.

[0251] The side door assembly 2130 serves to open and close the side outlets 2111 of the discharge portion 2110 formed on both sides of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0252] When the indoor unit is running, the side door assembly 2130 opens the side outlet 2111; when the indoor unit is not running, the side door assembly 2130 blocks the side outlet 2111.

[0253] When the indoor unit is running, the side door assembly 2130 opens the side outlet 2111 to discharge air blown out by the air supply module 2100.

[0254] Conversely, when the indoor unit is not in operation, the side door assembly 2130 blocks the side outlet 2111, which effectively prevents dust and other particles from flowing into the interior through the side outlet 2111 and from adhering to or blocking foreign objects that may cause malfunctions from flowing in.

[0255] As another example of operation, when the indoor unit is running, either of the two side door assemblies 2130 can open one side outlet 2111 to expel air to the outside, while the other side door assembly 2130 blocks the other side outlet 2111 to prevent air from being expelled (one-sided air expulsion mode).

[0256] As an example, either the side outlet 2111 on one side or the side outlet 2111 on the other side can be the left side outlet, while the other can be the right side outlet.

[0257] The side door assembly 2130 includes: left and right side doors 2121, which open and close side outlets 2111 as they move in the front-back direction; and a support frame 2124, which is combined with the side doors 2121 and forms a guide hole 2125 to guide the front-back movement of the side doors 2121.

[0258] At least a portion of the door support member (not shown) that supports the side door 2121 on the ejection portion 2110 can pass through the guide hole 2125.

[0259] The side door assembly 2130 is supported so that it can move from the foremost position of blocking the side outlet 2111 to the rearmost position of opening the side outlet 2111.

[0260] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the side door assembly 2130 can extend from the upper end of the upper housing 1100, 1200 to the boundary of the lower housing 5000 and cover the whole with a specified width. The outer surface of the side door 2121 can be configured to have a shape that can form the same texture as the main body front housing 1100 and the base front part 5300, so as to create an aesthetic sense for the user of the indoor unit and a sense of unity between the air supply fan assembly 2000 and the main body rear housing 1200.

[0261] Figure 12 This is a front perspective view showing the side blade module of the air supply fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view showing the side blade module of the air supply fan assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the shape of the side blades and the blade drive part of the side blade module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0262] Figure 15This is a rear perspective view showing a portion of the side blade module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 This is a rear perspective view showing the shape of the side blades of the side blade module of this utility model after the side blades have been moved, according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0263] Reference Figures 12 to 16 The side blade module 2200 of this embodiment can be understood as a blade that switches the forward-directing airflow emitted through the side outlet 2111 to a lateral-directing airflow. The side blade module 2200 can be disposed in front of the air supply fan assembly 2000. In order to form a lateral-directing airflow, the side blade module 2200 can move in the left-right direction in front of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0264] One side blade module 2200 can be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the front edge of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The two side blade modules 2200 can be formed into a symmetrical shape and can be arranged on both sides of the front edge of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0265] Specifically, the side blade module 2200 may include: a side blade housing 2210 disposed on the front side of the air supply fan assembly 2000; a side blade 2220 movable inside the side blade housing 2210; and a side blade cover 2230 combined with the side blade housing 2210 to cover the side blade 2220.

[0266] The side blade housing 2210 forms the rear appearance of the side blade module 2200, and the side blade cover 2230 forms the front appearance of the side blade module 2200. The side blade 2220 can be accommodated in the internal space formed by the combination of the side blade housing 2210 and the side blade cover 2230.

[0267] The side blade housing 2210 and the side blade cover 2230 are combined to form the appearance of the side blade module 2200. Therefore, the configuration of the side blade housing 2210 and the side blade cover 2230 can be referred to as the "blade cover".

[0268] The side blade housing 2210 can be referred to as the "blade housing".

[0269] The side blade cover 2230 can be referred to as a "blade cover".

[0270] The side blade module 2200 can remain hidden between the main front housing 1100 and the air supply fan assembly 2000, and therefore can be called a "hidden blade module".

[0271] The side blade 2220 can be referred to as a "hidden blade".

[0272] The side blade module 2200 may further include a blade drive unit 2215 that provides driving force to enable movement of the side blade 2220. The blade drive unit 2215 may be coupled to the inner or back side of the side blade 2220. Furthermore, the blade drive unit 2215 may be mounted and fixed to the inner or front side of the side blade housing 2210. That is, the blade drive unit 2215 can be supported on the side blade housing 2210 while coupled to the side blade 2220.

[0273] The blade drive unit 2215 may include: a drive motor 2211, which can drive the side blades 2220 electrically; a pinion 2212, which is connected to the motor shaft of the drive motor 2211; and a rack 2214, which switches the rotational force of the pinion 2212 into linear reciprocating motion.

[0274] Here, the drive motor 2211 and the pinion 2212 can be disposed on the side blade housing 2210. A rack 2214 capable of engaging with the pinion 2212 can be disposed on the inner surface or the back surface of the side blade 2220. The rack 2214 can be integrally formed with the side blade 2220, or it can be separately formed and coupled to the side blade 2220.

[0275] The blade drive unit 2215 may further include a motor bracket 2213 for mounting the drive motor 2211 and the pinion 2212. The motor bracket 2213 may be disposed on the inner side of the side blade 2220 and may serve to support the side blade 2220.

[0276] The motor bracket 2213 can connect the side blade 2220 and the side blade housing 2210. At least a portion of the motor bracket 2213 can be disposed inside the side blade 2220, and the remaining portion can be disposed inside the side blade housing 2210. A portion (front) of the motor bracket 2213 can be attached to the side blade 2220, and another portion (back) can be fixed to the side blade housing 2210. As an example, the motor bracket 2213 can be formed in a quadrilateral frame shape.

[0277] A motor mounting portion 2213a for mounting the drive motor 2211 can be formed on the inner side of the motor bracket 2213. A portion of the motor bracket 2213 can be recessed or cut open to form the motor mounting portion 2213a. The motor mounting portion 2213a can be formed at the center of the motor bracket 2213.

[0278] Motor fastening portions 2213b for fixing the drive motor 2211 can be formed on both sides of the motor mounting portion 2213a. A gear receiving portion 2213c for accommodating the pinion 2212 can be formed on the upper side of the motor mounting portion 2213a. The gear receiving portion 2213c can be connected to the motor mounting portion 2213a.

[0279] A guide rail can be formed on the outer side of the motor bracket 2213, which is movably coupled to the inner side of the side blade 2220. The guide rail can extend upward or downward on the outer surface of the motor bracket 2213. The guide rail can be formed elongated in the left-right direction on the outer side of the motor bracket 2213.

[0280] The guide rail guide may include: a first guide rail guide 2213d, disposed on the upper side of the motor bracket 2213; and a second guide rail guide 2213e, disposed on the lower side of the motor bracket 2213. The first guide rail guide 2213d and the second guide rail guide 2213e may be configured at positions corresponding to each other in the vertical direction.

[0281] The first guide rail guide 2213d can extend long in the left-right direction on the top surface of the motor bracket 2213. A space can be formed on the inner side of the first guide rail guide 2213d for the first guide rail portion 2222b of the side blade 2220 to be inserted.

[0282] The second guide rail guide 2213e can extend elongated in the left-right direction on the bottom surface of the motor bracket 2213. A space can be formed on the inner side of the second guide rail guide 2213e for the second guide rail portion 2222c of the side blade 2220 to be inserted.

[0283] The blade drive unit 2215 may further include a plurality of rollers 2216 supporting the side blade 2220. The rollers 2216 are disposed on the inner side of the side blade 2220, serving to support the load of the side blade 2220 and prevent the side blade 2220 from tilting. As an example, the roller 2216 may be configured such that one side is fixed to the side blade housing 2210, and the other side supports the side blade 2220.

[0284] A plurality of the rollers 2216 may be formed on the upper and / or lower side of the motor bracket 2213, respectively, on the inner side of the side blade 2220. As one example, there may be two rollers 2216, arranged on the inner side of the side blade 2220 at positions corresponding to the lower side of the motor bracket 2213. As another example, there may be four rollers 2216, with two arranged on the inner side of the side blade 2220 at positions corresponding to the upper and lower sides of the motor bracket 2213, respectively.

[0285] The side blade housing 2210 can be attached to the front of the air supply fan assembly 2000. The side blade housing 2210 may include a housing body 2218 extending in the vertical direction and a housing extension 2219 extending from one side of the housing body 2218.

[0286] The housing body 2218 can be formed into a rod or bar shape that extends vertically and is open on the front. The side blades 2220 can be accommodated inside the housing body 2218 through the open front of the housing body 2218.

[0287] The housing extension 2219 can extend laterally from one side of the housing body 2218. For example, the housing extension 2219 can extend laterally towards the outer side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 from a portion corresponding to the middle height of the housing body 2218. The housing extension 2219 can be formed into a quadrilateral frame shape with an open front.

[0288] The side blade 2220 can be housed inside the side blade housing 2210 and can move in the left-right direction. The side blade 2220 can also move outwards from the side blade housing 2210 while hidden inside the side blade housing 2210, driven by the blade drive unit 2215. A blade drive unit 2215 providing the driving force for the side blade 2220 to move in the left-right direction can be integrated into the inner side of the side blade 2220.

[0289] The side blade 2220 may include a blade body 2221 extending in the vertical direction and a blade extension 2222 extending from one side of the blade body 2221.

[0290] The blade body 2221 can be formed into a plate shape that extends in the vertical direction and bends multiple times. As an example, the blade body 2221 may include: a first plate 2221a that extends in the horizontal direction; a second plate 2221b that bends forward from the end of the first plate 2221a; and a third plate 2221c that extends laterally from the end of the second plate 2221b.

[0291] That is, the second plate 2221b can be bent in a direction perpendicular to the first plate 2221a, and the third plate 2221c can be bent in a direction perpendicular to the second plate 2221b.

[0292] If the side blade 2220 is moved by the blade drive unit 2215, the first plate 2221a and the second plate 2221b can remain housed inside the side blade housing 2210, while the third plate 2221c can protrude outward from the side blade housing 2210. The third plate 2221c can protrude outward through a groove formed in the side blade housing 2210. At this time, the third plate 2221c can move to a position in front of or adjacent to the side outlet 2111.

[0293] If the side blades 2220 complete their movement to the fully open position, the air discharged through the side outlet 2111 directly collides with the third plate 2221c, thus changing the direction of movement. At this time, since the air flowing through the front end side of the air discharged through the side outlet 2111 has the fastest flow velocity, the air whose direction of movement is changed due to the collision with the third plate 2221c affects the direction of movement of the air discharged from the rear side. Due to this effect, the overall direction of movement of the air through the side outlet 2111 is changed, thus forming a lateral directional airflow.

[0294] The blade extension 2222 can extend laterally from one side of the blade body 2221. For example, the blade extension 2222 can extend laterally towards the outer side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 from a portion corresponding to the middle height of the blade body 2221. The blade extension 2222 can be formed as a quadrilateral frame shape with an open back. The blade extension 2222 can be accommodated inside the housing extension 2219.

[0295] A bracket receiving portion 2222a for accommodating the motor bracket 2213 may be formed on the inner side of the blade extension 2222. The bracket receiving portion 2222a may be formed by recessing from the back side of the blade extension 2222 forward.

[0296] A rack 2214 that engages with the pinion 2212 can be formed on the inner side of the blade extension 2222. The rack 2214 can be formed elongated in the left-right direction on the surface facing the motor bracket 2213.

[0297] A guide rail portion that engages with the guide rail guide of the motor bracket 2213 may be formed on the inner side of the blade extension 2222. The guide rail portion may protrude from the inner side of the bracket receiving portion 2222a toward the center. The guide rail portion may extend in the left-right direction on the inner surface of the bracket receiving portion 2222a.

[0298] The guide rail portion may include: a first guide rail portion 2222b disposed on the inner top surface of the bracket receiving portion 2222a; and a second guide rail portion 2222c disposed on the inner bottom surface of the bracket receiving portion 2222a. The first guide rail portion 2222b and the second guide rail portion 2222c may be configured at positions corresponding to each other in the vertical direction.

[0299] The first guide rail portion 2222b is inserted into the inner side of the first guide rail guide 2213d, and the second guide rail portion 2222c is inserted into the inner side of the second guide rail guide 2213e, so that the side blade 2220 can move stably in the left and right direction relative to the motor bracket 2213.

[0300] A roller receiving portion 2222d for accommodating the roller 2216 may be formed on the inner side of the blade extension 2222. The roller receiving portion 2222d may be formed by recessing forward from the back side of the blade extension 2222.

[0301] The roller receiving portion 2222d can be formed separately from the lower or upper side of the bracket receiving portion 2222a. The roller receiving portion 2222d can be formed in a number corresponding to the number of rollers 2216. The plurality of rollers 2216 support the inner side of the blade extension 2222, thereby minimizing the load on the side blade 2220 and preventing tilting as the side blade 2220 moves.

[0302] The side blade cover 2230 can be attached to the front of the side blade housing 2210. The side blade cover 2230 may include: a cover body 2231 extending in the vertical direction; and a cover extension 2232 extending from one side of the cover body 2231.

[0303] The cover body 2231 can be formed as a plate extending in the vertical direction. The cover body 2231 can be combined to cover the open front of the housing body 2218. The cover body 2231 can be combined with the housing body 2218 to protect the side blades 2220.

[0304] The cover extension 2232 can extend laterally from one side of the cover body 2231. For example, the cover extension 2232 can extend laterally towards the outer side of the air supply fan assembly 2000 from a portion corresponding to the middle height of the cover body 2231. The cover extension 2232 can be formed as a quadrilateral frame shape with an open back. The side blades 2220 can be accommodated inside the cover extension 2232.

[0305] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the rollers in the side blade module of this utility model embodiment.

[0306] Reference Figure 17 In this embodiment of the invention, four rollers 2216 can be configured, each disposed on the inner side of the side blade 2220. Two rollers 2216 can be disposed on the upper side of the motor bracket 2213, and two rollers can be disposed on the lower side of the motor bracket 2213. The four rollers 2216 can be arranged at each vertex in a square or rectangle configuration.

[0307] According to this embodiment, the vertical center line G of the side blade 2220 is arranged among a plurality of rollers 2216.

[0308] Specifically, a plurality of rollers 2216 can support the inner side of the side blade 2220, thereby forming a load-bearing support area A0 between the vertical center lines A1 and A2 of each roller 2216. However, if the vertical center line G of the side blade 2220 deviates outward from the load-bearing support area A0, a tilting phenomenon may occur during the movement of the side blade 2220.

[0309] However, in this invention, the vertical center line G of the side blade 2220 is moved toward the inside of the load support area A0, thereby preventing the side blade 2220 from tilting during its movement.

[0310] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the guide gear of the side blade module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0311] Reference Figure 18 The side blade module 2200 may further include a guide gear 2217 for guiding the movement of the side blade 2220. The guide gear 2217 may have teeth on its outer surface and be configured to be rotatable. As an example, the guide gear 2217 may include a pinion.

[0312] The guide gear 2217 can be engaged between the side blade housing 2210 and the side blade 2220. The guide gear 2217 can be respectively disposed between the upper and lower ends of the housing body 2218 and the upper and lower ends of the blade body 2221.

[0313] The guide gear 2217 provides moving friction between the side blade housing 2210 and the side blade 2220, thereby enabling the side blade 2220 to move smoothly and slowly relative to the side blade housing 2210.

[0314] The guide gear 2217 can engage with a rack 2217a formed on the inner side of the side blade housing 2210 or the side blade 2220. The rack 2217a can be formed on the inner surface of the housing body 2218 or the inner surface of the blade body 2221 in the left-right direction. The guide gear 2217 is configured to move in the left-right direction in engagement with the rack 2217a, so that the side blade 2220 can move stably in the left-right direction.

[0315] Figure 19 It is along Figure 3 Sectional view of section 21-21.

[0316] Reference Figure 19 If the air supply module 2100 of this utility model embodiment is driven, the air through the heat exchanger 3100 can flow to the protective housing 2300 and be drawn into the air supply fan side through the suction opening 2321.

[0317] Air can pass through the intake guide 2320 that defines the intake opening 2321. At this time, the air flowing from the edge 2322 of the intake guide 2320 toward the intake opening 2321 can be stably guided as it passes through the edge 2322.

[0318] That is, it can prevent vortex phenomena where air is not drawn in from the edge portion 2322 and flows in a rotating direction towards the outside of the intake guide portion 2320. Furthermore, air can be easily drawn in axially along the fan as it passes through the portion extending long in front of the plate portion 2330. The air passing through the fan can be discharged to the side outlet 2111 via the discharge flow path 2120a.

[0319] The side door assembly 2130 can be tilted forward and guides the air discharged towards the outside of the housing assembly 1000. Thus, the direction of the air discharged through the side outlet 2111 is switched by the side door assembly 2130 to form a forward-directing airflow. Here, the forward-directing airflow can be defined as an exhaust airflow with a defined discharge angle relative to the front.

[0320] The side blade module 2200 is a blade that switches the direction of the airflow emitted through the side outlet 2111, and it is disposed in front of the air supply fan assembly 2000.

[0321] The side blade module 2200 may include a side blade housing 2210 and a side blade 2220. The forward-pointing airflow direction switching can be achieved by a plate-shaped side blade 2220 configured adjacent to the forward side of the side outlet 2111.

[0322] The side blades 2220 remain hidden between the main front housing 1100 and the air supply fan assembly 2000, and can therefore be referred to as hidden blades. Thus, the side blades 2220 do not affect the airflow through the side outlet 2111, allowing the discharged air to maintain a forward-facing airflow.

[0323] However, when the blade drive unit 2215 is operated to switch from direct wind mode to indirect wind mode, the side blades 2220 can move horizontally from a hidden state toward the direction of being exposed to the outside.

[0324] When the horizontal movement of the side blade 2220 begins, the side blade 2220 stops after completing its movement to the final fully open position.

[0325] If the side blade 2220 completes its movement to the final fully open position, the air expelled through the side outlet 2111 is resisted by the side blade 2220. In particular, the air at the front end of the side outlet 2111 collides directly with the side blade 2220 and its direction of movement is switched.

[0326] At this time, the air flowing through the front end side of the air discharged through the side outlet 2111 has the fastest flow velocity. Therefore, the air whose movement direction is switched at the same time as colliding with the side blade 2220 affects the movement direction of the air discharged from the rear side. Due to this effect, the overall movement direction of the air through the side outlet 2111 is switched, thereby forming a lateral directional airflow.

[0327] The side blades 2220 of the side blade module 2200 move relative to the side blade housing 2210 in the left-right direction. One side blade 2220 is provided on each of the left and right side blades 2220, thereby effectively opening and closing the side outlet 2111.

Claims

1. An indoor unit of an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: The shell has an intake port and an exhaust port; A heat exchanger is disposed inside the housing; The air supply module discharges the air that has passed through the heat exchanger into the outlet; as well as The blade module switches the flow direction of the air discharged through the outlet; The blade module includes: Blade shell; The blade is capable of moving inside the blade housing; and A plurality of rollers guide the movement of the blades; The vertical centroid line (G) of the blade is located between the plurality of the rollers.

2. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rollers are disposed inside the blades.

3. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, One side of the roller is fixed to the blade housing; The other side of the roller is connected to the blade.

4. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The blade is capable of reciprocating within the blade housing; The plurality of rollers are spaced apart in the direction of the reciprocating movement of the blade.

5. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a blade drive unit, which is attached to one side of the blade and provides a driving force for the reciprocating movement of the blade.

6. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, A plurality of the rollers are arranged on the upper side of the blade drive section.

7. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, A plurality of the rollers are arranged on the underside of the blade drive section.

8. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The plurality of rollers are respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the blade drive section.

9. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 8, characterized in that, A plurality of rollers disposed on the upper side of the blade drive unit and a plurality of rollers disposed on the lower side of the blade drive unit face each other.

10. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a guide gear, which is engaged between the blade housing and the blade to guide the movement of the blade.

11. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The guide gear has teeth on its outer surface and is configured to rotate.

12. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The guide gear includes a pinion.

13. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The guide gear engages with a rack disposed on the blade housing or the blade.

14. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 13, characterized in that, The rack extends in the direction of the reciprocating movement of the blade.

15. The indoor unit of the air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The guide gears are respectively disposed between the upper end of the blade housing and the upper end of the blade, and between the lower end of the blade housing and the lower end of the blade.

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