Air conditioner panel and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of air conditioner panel and air conditioner, air conditioner panel includes panel and knob, knob is located in panel, knob includes knob ring and button, button is located in the area surrounded by knob ring.According to the air conditioner panel of the utility model, air conditioner panel is equipped with knob, so that user can control air conditioner by knob, provide and operate different operation experience on display screen;Meanwhile, button is set on knob, and button is located in the area surrounded by knob ring, whereby button and knob can cooperate with each other, realize more complex operation control, provide more control selection for user, meet the use demand under different scenes, improve user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to an air conditioning panel and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] Air conditioners in related technologies have a display screen on the panel, with buttons or touch areas on the screen to control the air conditioner. However, this operation method is rigid and monotonous and needs improvement. Utility Model Content

[0003] This utility model aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this utility model provides an air conditioner panel that allows the air conditioner to be operated conveniently and quickly via a knob and buttons on the knob.

[0004] This utility model also proposes an air conditioner having the above-mentioned air conditioning panel.

[0005] An air conditioning panel according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a panel and a knob, the knob being disposed on the panel, the knob including a knob ring and a button, the button being located in the area surrounded by the knob ring.

[0006] According to the embodiment of the present utility model, the air conditioner panel is provided with a knob, which allows users to control the air conditioner by turning the knob, providing a different operating experience than operating on the display screen. It is also convenient and easy to use. At the same time, buttons are provided on the knob, and the buttons are located in the area surrounded by the knob ring. Thus, the buttons and the knob can work together to achieve more complex operation control, providing users with more control options, meeting the usage needs in different scenarios, and improving the user experience.

[0007] In some embodiments, the button is a touch-sensitive button.

[0008] In some embodiments, the knob includes an outer end cap and a sensing electrode. The outer end cap forms one end face of the knob away from the interior of the panel. The button includes a button pattern area on the outer end cap and an inductive area on the sensing electrode. The inductive area is disposed opposite to the button pattern area.

[0009] In some embodiments, the button pattern areas are multiple and spaced apart on the outer end cover.

[0010] In some embodiments, one of the plurality of button pattern areas is a central pattern area, and the rest are peripheral pattern areas, with the plurality of peripheral pattern areas distributed around the periphery of the central pattern area.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sensing electrode is a light-transmitting element, and the knob further includes an illumination element disposed on the side of the sensing electrode away from the outer end cover, the illumination element including a lamp body opposite to the button pattern area.

[0012] In some embodiments, the outer end cap is a film-coated part; and / or, the sensing electrode is attached to the inner surface of the outer end cap.

[0013] In some embodiments, the outer end cap has a positioning structure that positions and engages with the sensing electrode to define the relative position of the sensing electrode and the outer end cap along the circumference of the knob.

[0014] In some embodiments, the positioning structure is a positioning protrusion, and the sensing electrode has a through-hole that extends along the axial direction of the knob. The through-hole is disposed opposite to and positioned in conjunction with the positioning structure.

[0015] In some embodiments, the knob ring is rotatable relative to the outer end cap.

[0016] In some embodiments, the knob includes an integrated knob cover, the knob cover including an outer end cap and a cover peripheral wall extending from the edge of the outer end cap toward the panel, the knob ring being rotatably surrounding the knob cover.

[0017] In some embodiments, the knob includes a knob bracket, the knob cover is fixedly connected to the knob bracket, the knob bracket is provided with a circuit board, the circuit board is used to sense the rotation of the knob ring, the sensing electrode is provided on the knob bracket and electrically connected to the circuit board, the knob bracket includes a partition, and the sensing electrode and the circuit board are respectively placed on both sides of the partition along the axial direction of the knob.

[0018] In some embodiments, the panel has a perforation, and the air conditioning panel further includes a knob base, which is disposed on the inside of the panel and mounted on the panel, and the knob is disposed on the knob base and opposite to the perforation.

[0019] In some embodiments, the knob is configured as a liftable knob that is movable up and down relative to the knob base in the inward and outward directions of the panel; or, the knob is configured as a fixed knob that is fixed relative to the through hole; or, the knob is configured as a detachable knob that is detachably engaged with the knob base.

[0020] An air conditioner according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an air conditioning panel according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0021] The air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present utility model improves the ease of operation of the air conditioner by providing the air conditioner panel described in the first aspect.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of an air conditioner panel according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the air conditioner panel shown; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the knob shown; Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the knob cover shown; Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the inside of the knob shown; Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another angle of the knob cover shown; Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the knob cover and knob bracket shown; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure label: Air conditioner 1000; Air conditioner panel 100; Panel 1; Perforation 11; Knob 2; Knob ring 21; Button 22; Button pattern area 221; Central pattern area 221a; Peripheral pattern area 221b; Knob cover 23; Cover periphery 231; Positioning structure 2311; Outer end cap 232; Induction electrode 24; Induction area 241; Through-hole 242; Lighting component 25; Lamp body 251; Knob bracket 26; Divider 261; Circuit board 27; Knob base 3. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0027] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the present invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0028] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an air conditioning panel 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0029] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air conditioning panel 100 includes: panel 1 and knob 2. Knob 2 is located on panel 1. Knob 2 includes knob ring 21 and button 22. Button 22 is located in the area surrounded by knob ring 21.

[0030] The composition of panel 1 is not limited. For example, it can be a single panel, or it can include a front panel and a panel bracket. The front panel is installed on the front side of the panel bracket, and the perforation 11 is opened on the front panel. The panel bracket can form a groove or a hollow at the corresponding perforation 11.

[0031] The term "knob 2 is located on panel 1" means that the knob 2 is installed on panel 1. The installation method of the knob 2 on panel 1 is not limited. For example, the knob 2 is exposed on panel 1; or the knob 2 is embedded in panel 1. The knob 2 may be fully embedded in panel 1 or partially embedded in panel 1, with the operating part of the knob 2 (e.g., knob ring 21) exposed; or the knob 2 is hidden on panel 1. For example, the knob 2 is normally hidden in the receiving groove of panel 1 and can only be exposed by pressing, sliding, rotating, or flipping a specific area of ​​panel 1.

[0032] For example, the knob 2 is embedded in the panel 1. The knob 2 can be always exposed on the outside of the panel 1, or it can be exposed on the outside of the panel 1 when the user needs to operate it. Here, the outside of the panel 1 refers to the side of the panel 1 facing the user, and the opposite side is the "inside", that is, the inner side of the panel 1, that is, the side of the panel 1 facing away from the user. Alternatively, for example, the knob 2 can extend outward and retract inward relative to the panel 1 through the perforation 11 on the panel 1. When the user needs to operate the knob 2, such as adjusting device parameters or switching function modes, the knob 2 can be extended outward, protruding from the surface of the panel 1, so that the user can easily rotate it, or perform rotation combined with touch or press operations; when the knob 2 is not needed, the knob 2 can be retracted to reduce the outward protrusion of the knob 2, which saves space and can also prevent the knob 2 from being accidentally bumped to a certain extent.

[0033] The connection method between the knob 2 and the panel 1 is not limited. For example, the knob 2 can be non-removably mounted on the panel 1 or detachably mounted on the panel 1. For example, it can be connected by screws, clips, magnetic attraction, pins, Velcro, snap fasteners, hooks, or boxing, etc.

[0034] The adjustment functions of knob 2 are unlimited. For example, users can rotate knob 2 to select functions of air conditioner 1000 (such as cooling, heating, dehumidification, fresh air, etc.), set values ​​of air conditioner 1000 (temperature, fan speed, air direction, etc.), turn air conditioner 1000 on and off, or link with other functions of air conditioner 1000 (such as display, voice, lighting, etc.), or link with network-connected home appliances throughout the house. In addition, knob 2 can also be equipped with a touch screen and / or floating parts, allowing adjustment of knob 2 through touch and / or pressing.

[0035] The knob 2 includes a knob ring 21 and a button 22. The knob ring 21 is the part of the knob 2 that is rotated by the user. The button 22 is a control element that triggers a specific function through contact action. The button 22 can be a mechanical button or a touch-sensitive button. The button 22 is located in the area surrounded by the knob ring 21, that is, the button 22 is set on the knob 2 and the button 22 is within the plane range formed by the projection of the knob ring 21 onto the panel 1. The button 22 can rotate with the knob ring 21 or it can not rotate with the knob ring 21.

[0036] Air conditioners in related technologies have a display screen on the panel, with buttons or touch areas on the screen to control the air conditioner. However, this operation method is rigid and monotonous and needs improvement.

[0037] In the technical solution of this application, the air conditioner panel 100 is provided with a knob 2, so that the user can control the air conditioner 1000 by using the knob 2, which is convenient and quick to operate and provides a different operating experience than touch control on the display screen; at the same time, a button 22 is provided on the knob 2, and the button 22 is located in the area surrounded by the knob ring 21, so the button 22 and the knob 2 can cooperate with each other to achieve more complex operation control.

[0038] For example, users can perform primary function operations by pressing button 22, such as switching air conditioning operation modes or adjusting fan speed, and then perform secondary function operations or continuously adjust parameters by rotating knob 2, such as selecting a specific air conditioning operation mode or setting a specific fan speed. The combination of button 22 and knob 2 provides users with more control options, meets the needs of different scenarios, and improves the user experience.

[0039] Traditional air conditioner panel operations can be scattered, requiring different functions to be operated from different locations. However, the technical solution of this application places the knob 2 on the panel 1 and integrates the button 22 on the knob 2. Users can quickly operate the knob 2 and button 22 without significant hand movement, conforming to ergonomics and usage habits, thus improving operational convenience. From the layout perspective of the air conditioner panel 100, the button 22 is located within the area surrounded by the knob ring 21, avoiding the need for additional space on the panel 1 to install the button 22, saving space on the panel 1, making the overall design of the panel 1 more compact and concise, and also contributing to the miniaturization and aesthetic design of the air conditioner's overall appearance.

[0040] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, button 22 is a touch-sensitive button. A touch-sensitive button is an electronic button 22 that uses changes in capacitance, resistance, or other physical signals generated by human touch to detect the user's intention to operate.

[0041] Touch-sensitive buttons have no mechanical travel, making them lighter and smoother to operate. Users can trigger functions simply by touching them, making operation more convenient. Furthermore, touch-sensitive buttons can be designed to be flatter. Because touch-sensitive buttons lack mechanical structures, the adverse effects of moisture and dust on the operational reliability of button 22 are reduced, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of button 22.

[0042] Furthermore, the touch-sensitive buttons can be programmed with software to implement a variety of complex interactive functions. For example, different touch operation methods such as long press, short press, and swipe can be used to trigger different functions, and the functions can be easily expanded and upgraded through software updates without requiring large-scale hardware modifications, thereby improving the adaptability of the air conditioner 1000 panel 1.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the knob 2 includes an outer end cover 232 and a sensing electrode 24. The outer end cover 232 forms the side end face of the knob 2 away from the interior of the panel 1. The button 22 includes a button pattern area 221 on the outer end cover 232 and an inductive area 241 on the sensing electrode 24. The inductive area 241 is disposed opposite to the button pattern area 221, that is, the inductive area 241 and the button pattern area 221 overlap or substantially correspond to each other on the plane projection perpendicular to the outer end cover 232.

[0044] In the above technical solution, the outer end cover 232 forms the side face of the knob 2 away from the interior of the panel 1, and the button pattern area 221 is set on the outer end cover 232. Thus, the user can determine the operation position by observing the button pattern area 221, which improves the accuracy of operation. The inductive area 241 is set opposite to the button pattern area 221, so that when the user touches the button pattern area 221, the inductive area 241 can be triggered to activate the corresponding function indicated by the touch button pattern area 221.

[0045] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, there are multiple button pattern areas 221 distributed at intervals on the outer end cover 232. For example, there may be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, etc. The button patterns of the button pattern areas 221 can be formed on the outer end cover 232 by means of printing, engraving, film application, etc.

[0046] In the above technical solution, the multiple button pattern areas 221 are spaced apart to separate the buttons 22 with different functions. This allows users to quickly identify and accurately press the button 22 with the desired function, reducing misoperation and improving operating efficiency. The multiple button pattern areas 221 are spaced apart on the outer end cover 232, allowing users to easily access different buttons 22, thus enabling one-handed adjustment and improving the convenience and flexibility of operation.

[0047] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, one of the plurality of button pattern areas 221 is a central pattern area 221a, and the rest are peripheral pattern areas 221b, with the plurality of peripheral pattern areas 221b distributed around the periphery of the central pattern area 221a. For example, as shown... Figure 3 As shown, the central pattern area 221a features AI (Artificial Intelligence) function button icons, while the surrounding pattern areas 221b display buttons for commonly used functions such as windless mode, wind speed, left / right wind, and mode. This eliminates the need to rotate the knob 2 to select and switch between these functions, improving ease of use. Furthermore, the multiple surrounding pattern areas 221b arranged around the central pattern area 221a conform to human operating habits, reducing the time users spend searching for buttons 22 and improving operational efficiency.

[0048] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the sensing electrode 24 is a light-transmitting element, and the knob 2 also includes an illumination element 25. The illumination element 25 is disposed on the side of the sensing electrode 24 away from the outer end cover 232, and the illumination element 25 includes a lamp body 251 opposite to the button pattern area 221. The sensing electrode 24 can be made of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) film.

[0049] In low-light or nighttime environments, insufficient light makes it difficult for users to clearly see the button patterns on knob 2, leading to operational difficulties and errors. In this solution, the sensing electrode 24 acts as a light-transmitting element, and the illumination element 25 is located on the side of the sensing electrode 24 away from the outer end cover 232, including a lamp body 251 opposite to the button pattern area 221. Therefore, at night, the light emitted by the lamp body 251 can pass through the sensing electrode 24 to illuminate the button pattern area 221, allowing users to clearly see the function markings of each button 22 even in the dark, thus enabling accurate operation and improving convenience for nighttime use.

[0050] Furthermore, the lamp body 251 of the lighting element 25 can not only illuminate the button patterns, but also provide function indication and status feedback through different lighting states. For example, when the air conditioner is in different operating modes (such as cooling, heating, dehumidification, etc.), the lamp body 251 of the lighting element 25 can emit different colors of light to indicate the current mode to the user; when the button 22 is pressed or the operation is successful, the lamp body 251 of the lighting element 25 can provide feedback to the user by flashing or changing its brightness, allowing the user to perceive whether the operation is effective, thereby improving the user's interactive experience.

[0051] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the sensing electrode 24 is adhered to the inner surface of the outer end cover 232. Adhesive bonding fixes the sensing electrode 24 to the inner surface of the outer end cover 232. Compared to mechanical fixing methods (such as screw fixing, snap-fit ​​fixing, etc.), it eliminates the need for drilling holes or installing snap-fits on the outer end cover 232, simplifying the assembly process, reducing assembly time and labor costs, thereby improving the production efficiency of the knob 2. Adhesive bonding ensures a tight fit between the sensing electrode 24 and the inner surface of the outer end cover 232, reducing the risk of loosening or displacement of the sensing electrode 24 due to vibration, impact, or other factors during use. This improves the stability of the relative position between the sensing electrode 24 and the outer end cover 232, reducing the likelihood of false triggering or failure to trigger, and enhancing the reliability of the button 22.

[0052] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the outer end cap 232 has a positioning structure 2311, which is positioned and engaged with the sensing electrode 24 to define the relative position of the sensing electrode 24 and the outer end cap 232 along the circumference of the knob 2. The axial direction of the knob 2 is the central axis around which the knob ring 21 rotates. A virtual cylinder (with unlimited radius) is constructed with this central axis as its axis, and the circumference of the virtual cylinder is the circumference of the knob 2.

[0053] In the above technical solution, the positioning structure 2311, through its interaction with the corresponding mating portion on the sensing electrode 24, defines the position of the sensing electrode 24. Therefore, the sensing electrode 24 can be mounted at a predetermined angle onto the inner surface of the outer end cover 232, thereby improving the accuracy of the relative alignment between the inductive area 241 and the button pattern area 221. If the inductive area 241 and the button pattern area 221 are misaligned, problems such as insensitive touch or false triggering may occur. However, through the interaction between the positioning structure 2311 and the corresponding mating portion on the sensing electrode 24, the inductive area 241 on the sensing electrode 24 is easily aligned with the button pattern area 221, thereby improving the reliability of the button 22.

[0054] The form of the positioning structure 2311 is not limited. For example, the positioning structure 2311 can be a positioning pin, a positioning post, a positioning boss, a positioning groove, etc. For example, refer to... Figure 4 The positioning structure 2311 is a positioning protrusion, and the sensing electrode 24 has a through-hole 242 that extends along the axial direction of the knob 2. The through-hole 242 is positioned opposite to and in a positioning fit with the positioning structure 2311. This facilitates processing and assembly.

[0055] Reference Figure 6 In some embodiments, the outer end cap 232 is a coated part. That is, the outer end cap 232 serves as a substrate, and a thin film with a button pattern is coated onto its outer surface through a coating process to form the button pattern area 221. The coating layer typically has high hardness and wear resistance, which can protect the substrate of the outer end cap 232 from damage and reduce surface wear of the button pattern caused by long-term touch, maintaining the clarity of the button pattern. The "coating process" is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0056] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the knob 2 includes an integrated knob cover 23, which includes an outer end cover 232 and a cover peripheral wall 231 extending from the edge of the outer end cover 232 toward the panel 1. The knob cover 23 is provided with a positioning structure 2311, which is positioned and engaged with the sensing electrode 24.

[0057] In the above technical solution, the integrated knob cover 23 includes an outer end cover 232 and a cover peripheral wall 231. Compared with a split structure, it has higher structural strength and stability. Furthermore, the cover peripheral wall 231 is easier to install connection structures (such as a connection structure with the knob bracket 26) and positioning structures 2311, reducing the need for these structures on the outer end cover 232. This allows for a larger area on the inner surface of the outer end cover 232 to adhere the sensing electrode 24, thereby increasing the area of ​​the button 22 and reducing the likelihood of accidental button presses. In addition, the cover peripheral wall 231 extends towards the panel 1, forming a relatively enclosed space that encloses the sensing electrode 24. This reduces the intrusion of dust, moisture, foreign objects, etc., into the sensing electrode 24, extending its service life and improving the reliability of the knob 2.

[0058] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the outer end cap 232 is a film-coated part; and the knob 2 includes an integrated knob cover 23, the knob cover 23 includes an outer end cap 232 and a cover peripheral wall 231 extending from the edge of the outer end cap 232 toward the inner side of the panel 1. The knob cover 23 is provided with a positioning structure 2311, which is positioned and engaged with the sensing electrode 24 to limit the relative position of the sensing electrode 24 and the outer end cap 232 along the circumference of the knob 2. Therefore, the outer end cover 232 has a high degree of integration. The outer surface of the outer end cover 232 is coated to form the button pattern area 221. The inner surface of the outer end cover 232 is attached with sensing electrodes 24. The sensing electrodes 24 have an inductive area 241. The peripheral wall 231 of the cover is easy to set with connection structure and positioning structure 2311, reducing the need to set these structures on the outer end cover 232. This allows the inner surface of the outer end cover 232 to have a larger area for attaching the sensing electrodes 24, thereby increasing the area of ​​the button 22 and making it less likely for the user to press the button 22 by mistake. In addition, the peripheral wall 231 of the cover can reduce the intrusion of dust, moisture, foreign objects, etc. of the sensing electrodes 24, extend the service life of the sensing electrodes 24, and improve the reliability of the knob 2.

[0059] Reference Figure 2 In some embodiments, the knob ring 21 is rotatable relative to the outer end cover 232. Therefore, when the knob ring 21 rotates, the outer end cover 232 does not rotate accordingly, and the orientation of the button patterns on the outer end cover 232 remains unchanged, always in an easily recognizable orientation. This reduces the time users spend recognizing the button patterns and improves operational efficiency.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 In some embodiments, the knob 2 includes an integrated knob cover 23, which includes an outer end cover 232 and a cover peripheral wall 231 extending from the edge of the outer end cover 232 toward the inner side of the panel 1. Figure 2 The knob ring 21 is rotatably wrapped around the knob cover 23.

[0061] In the above technical solution, the knob 2 adopts an integrated knob cover 23, which integrates the outer end cover 232 and the cover peripheral wall 231 into a whole component, reducing the number of parts and simplifying the product structure. Compared with the split design, it avoids assembly errors and loose connections between multiple parts, and improves the integrity and stability of the structure. The knob ring 21 is rotatably wrapped around the knob cover 23. When the user applies a rotational force to the knob ring 21, the knob ring 21 will rotate relative to the knob cover 23 around its central axis, while the knob cover 23 is fixed. The orientation of the button pattern on the outer end cover 232 of the knob cover 23 will not change and will always be in an easily recognizable orientation, thereby reducing the time for the user to recognize the button pattern and improving the operating efficiency.

[0062] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 7In some embodiments, the knob 2 includes a knob support 26, a knob cover 23 is fixedly connected to the knob support 26, a circuit board 27 is provided on the knob support 26, the circuit board 27 is used to sense the rotation of the knob ring 21, a sensing electrode 24 is provided on the knob support 26 and electrically connected to the circuit board 27, the knob support 26 includes a partition 261, and the sensing electrode 24 and the circuit board 27 are respectively placed on both sides of the partition 261 along the axial direction of the knob 2.

[0063] The circuit board 27 is used to sense the rotation of the knob ring 21. For example, the circuit board 27 can be electrically connected to an encoder, and the knob ring 21 can be mechanically connected to the encoder. Thus, the encoder can convert the position, speed, and other information of the knob ring 21's movement into digital signals (pulses or codes) that can be recognized by the circuit board 27, thereby achieving accurate measurement and feedback of the motion state. For instance, when the knob ring 21 is rotated, the encoder's code disk rotates accordingly. Light is alternately blocked by the code disk stripes, and the photosensitive sensor receives the intermittent light signals, converting them into electrical pulse signals. The circuit board 27 calculates the rotation angle and direction of the knob 2 based on the number and direction (forward / reverse) of the pulses, and outputs a digital signal to the processor to achieve adjustment.

[0064] The knob bracket 26 provides a stable support and mounting position for the knob cover 23 and the circuit board 27, thus fixing the relative positions of the knob cover 23 and the circuit board 27. The outer end cover 232 of the knob cover 23 is attached with a sensing electrode 24. The circuit board 27 is located on the side of the partition 261 away from the outer end cover 232, and the sensing electrode 24 is located on the side of the partition 261 near the outer end cover 232. The sensing electrode 24 is electrically connected to the circuit board 27. Thus, the relative positions of the sensing electrode 24 and the circuit board 27 are fixed, making it easy to set up electrical connection lines, and the two are not likely to interfere with each other.

[0065] Circuit board 27 is used to sense the rotation of knob ring 21. Sensing electrode 24 is electrically connected to circuit board 27. Thus, circuit board 27 can process the command information input by the user through the rotation of knob ring 21 and the command information input by the user through button 22, thereby facilitating the interaction between knob 21 and button 22 to achieve more complex operation control.

[0066] Reference Figure 1In some embodiments, the panel 1 has a perforation 11. The air conditioning panel 100 also includes a knob seat 3, which is located on the inner side of the panel 1 and installed on the panel 1. The knob 2 is located on the knob seat 3 and is opposite to the perforation 11, that is, the knob 2 can be exposed on the outer side of the panel 1 through the perforation 11. The knob 2 can be a fixed knob, with the part of the knob 2 used for operation always exposed on the outer side of the panel 1 through the perforation 11. Alternatively, the knob 2 can be a lift-up knob. When the user needs to operate the knob 2, such as adjusting device parameters or switching function modes, the knob 2 can be extended outward and protrude from the surface of the panel 1 so that the user can easily rotate it, or combine rotation with touch or press operations. When the knob 2 is not needed, the knob 2 can be retracted to reduce the protrusion of the knob 2, which saves space and can also prevent the knob 2 from being accidentally bumped to a certain extent.

[0067] Thus, the perforation 11 provides a channel for the knob 2 to be exposed on the outside of the panel 1, making it convenient for users to operate. Meanwhile, the knob seat 3 provides a stable support and mounting structure for the knob 2 on the inside of the panel 1, making the overall structure of the air conditioning panel 100 simpler, more compact, and saving space.

[0068] In some embodiments, the knob 2 is configured as a liftable knob that can be raised and lowered relative to the knob base 3 along the inward and outward directions of the panel 1. Thus, when the user needs to operate the knob 2, it can be raised to facilitate rotation, combined with touch, or pressing operations; when the knob 2 is not needed, it can be lowered to reduce its protrusion, saving space and mitigating the risk of accidental impact. The method of driving the knob 2 to rise and fall is not limited; for example, a drive motor and transmission mechanism can be used. The drive motor is mounted on either the knob 2 or the knob base 3, and the transmission mechanism engages with the other, allowing the knob 2 to rise and fall relative to the knob base 3 when the drive motor is operating. The transmission mechanism is not limited; for example, it can be a ball screw mechanism, a threaded screw mechanism, a rack and pinion mechanism, or a scissor mechanism, etc.

[0069] In some embodiments, the knob 2 is configured as a fixed knob that is fixed relative to the through hole 11 (where fixed means that the setting position (or installation position) of the knob 2 is fixed, but the knob 2 can still be turned normally). Since the position of the knob 2 is fixed, it is not easy to loosen due to frequent operation. Moreover, the structure of the knob 2 is relatively simple, which reduces the number of parts and assembly difficulty in the production process, improves production efficiency, and reduces the manufacturing cost of the knob 2.

[0070] In some embodiments, the knob 2 is configured as a detachable knob that can be separably engaged with the knob base 3, thereby facilitating the removal and use of the knob 2. The method of detachment is not limited; for example, it can be a magnetic engagement, a Velcro fastening, or a snap-fit ​​engagement. For instance, the knob 2 can be removed from the through hole 11 and used in other locations, allowing operation of the knob 2 from other positions (e.g., the knob 2 can be set to wirelessly communicate with the air conditioner 1000), eliminating the need to stand in front of the air conditioner panel 100 to operate the knob 2, thus improving the convenience of operating the knob 2.

[0071] Reference Figure 8 An air conditioner 1000 according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an air conditioning panel 100 according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0072] According to the embodiment of the present utility model, the air conditioner 1000 improves the ease of operation by providing the air conditioner panel 100 described in the first aspect.

[0073] Other components of the air conditioner panel 100 according to the present invention, such as the display panel and panel bracket, as well as its operation, are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0074] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0076] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0077] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0078] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0079] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air conditioner panel, characterized in that, include: panel; A knob is provided on the panel, the knob includes a knob ring and a button, the button being located in the area surrounded by the knob ring.

2. The air conditioner panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The button is a touch-sensitive button.

3. The air conditioner panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The knob includes an outer end cap and a sensing electrode. The outer end cap forms one end face of the knob away from the interior of the panel. The button includes a button pattern area on the outer end cap and an inductive area on the sensing electrode. The inductive area is disposed opposite to the button pattern area.

4. The air conditioning panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The button pattern areas are multiple and spaced apart on the outer end cover.

5. The air conditioning panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, One of the multiple button pattern areas is the central pattern area, and the rest are peripheral pattern areas, with the multiple peripheral pattern areas distributed around the periphery of the central pattern area.

6. The air conditioning panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sensing electrode is a light-transmitting element, and the knob also includes an illumination element. The illumination element is located on the side of the sensing electrode away from the outer end cover, and the illumination element includes a lamp body opposite to the button pattern area.

7. The air conditioner panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer end cap is a film-coated part; and / or, the sensing electrode is attached to the inner surface of the outer end cap.

8. The air conditioning panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer end cap has a positioning structure that engages with the sensing electrode to define the relative position of the sensing electrode and the outer end cap along the circumference of the knob.

9. The air conditioning panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, The positioning structure is a positioning protrusion, and the sensing electrode has a through-hole that extends along the axial direction of the knob. The through-hole is positioned opposite to and in a positioning fit with the positioning structure.

10. The air conditioning panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The knob ring is rotatable relative to the outer end cap.

11. The air conditioning panel according to claim 10, characterized in that, The knob includes an integrated knob cover, which includes an outer end cap and a cover peripheral wall extending from the edge of the outer end cap toward the panel, and the knob ring rotatably surrounds the knob cover.

12. The air conditioning panel according to claim 11, characterized in that, The knob includes a knob bracket, the knob cover is fixedly connected to the knob bracket, the knob bracket is provided with a circuit board, the circuit board is used to sense the rotation of the knob ring, the sensing electrode is provided on the knob bracket and electrically connected to the circuit board, the knob bracket includes a partition, and the sensing electrode and the circuit board are respectively placed on both sides of the partition along the axial direction of the knob.

13. The air conditioning panel according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The panel has a perforation, and the air conditioning panel also includes a knob base. The knob base is located on the inside of the panel and is mounted on the panel. The knob is located on the knob base and is opposite to the perforation.

14. The air conditioning panel according to claim 13, characterized in that, The knob is configured as a liftable knob that can be raised and lowered relative to the knob base along the inward and outward directions of the panel; or, the knob is configured as a fixed knob that is fixed relative to the through hole; or, the knob is configured as a detachable knob that can be detachably engaged with the knob base.

15. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes an air conditioning panel according to any one of claims 1-14.

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