Air conditioner and method for operating the same

Abstract

To provide an air conditioner and a method for operating the same.SOLUTION: In one aspect, the air conditioner may include an indoor unit, an indoor temperature sensor configured to detect an indoor temperature in an indoor space in which the indoor unit is disposed, and a controller configured to monitor the indoor temperature through the indoor temperature sensor. If the indoor temperature changes by a first reference or more, the controller may commence a power-saving operation; and, if the indoor temperature changes by a second reference or more while the power-saving operation is performed, the controller may stop the power-saving operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner that performs operation in consideration of the state of an indoor space.

[0002] 〔Related Art〕 This application is accompanied by a claim of priority under Article 4 of the Paris Convention based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0169996 (filing date: November 29, 2023; DAS: 8359), and the invention of this application is based on the content disclosed in the said Korean patent application. For reference, the contents of the specification, claims, and drawings of the said Korean patent application are incorporated into a part of the specification of this application.

Background Art

[0003] An air conditioner (Air Conditioner; air conditioner; air conditioning device; air conditioner; air conditioner; air conditioning and humidity control device; cooling, heating, and humidity control device) is installed to provide a more comfortable indoor environment for humans by discharging cold or warm air into the room to adjust the indoor temperature and purifying the indoor air. Generally, an air conditioner includes an indoor unit installed indoors, which is composed of a heat exchanger, and an outdoor unit that supplies refrigerant to the indoor unit and is composed of a compressor, a heat exchanger, etc.

[0004] The air conditioner is operated in a cooling mode or a heating mode depending on the flow of the refrigerant. During cooling operation, a high-temperature and high-pressure liquid refrigerant is supplied from the compressor of the outdoor unit through the heat exchanger of the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. In the heat exchanger of the indoor unit, the refrigerant expands and vaporizes while lowering the temperature of the surrounding air, and cold air is discharged into the room by the rotation of the indoor unit fan. During heating operation, a high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is supplied from the compressor of the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. In the heat exchanger of the indoor unit, the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant liquefies, and the heated air is discharged into the room by the operation of the indoor unit fan due to the released energy.

[0005] Recently, with the addition of various new functions related to the operation of air conditioners, concepts such as so-called smart air conditioners or intelligent air conditioners have emerged. Generally, as described in Patent Document 1 (Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0085101), an air conditioner is equipped with a sensor for detecting the indoor temperature and operates based on the indoor temperature detected by the sensor. For example, the air conditioner can control the operating frequency of the compressor so that the indoor temperature detected by the sensor reaches the target value.

[0006] On the other hand, when the indoor space to be heated or cooled communicates with other spaces, for example, when doors or windows arranged on the wall surface constituting the indoor space are opened for ventilation, an air convection phenomenon may occur between the indoor space and other spaces. Here, for heating and cooling, even if the air heat-exchanged in the indoor unit is discharged into the indoor space, there is a problem that it is difficult for the indoor temperature to reach the target value due to the air convection phenomenon. In addition, there is a problem that unnecessary power consumption occurs when the air conditioner operates to make the indoor temperature reach the target value even though it is difficult to heat or cool the indoor space because the indoor space communicates with other spaces.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner capable of discharging air so that the air heat-exchanged along the ceiling constituting the indoor space flows, and an operation method thereof.

[0010] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner and an operation method thereof that can discharge air so that the heat-exchanged air flows toward a specific area of the indoor space.

[0011] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner and an operation method thereof that can determine whether the indoor space communicates with another space.

[0012] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner and an operation method thereof that can execute power-saving operation while the indoor space communicates with another space.

[0013] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner and an operation method thereof that can execute normal operation when the communication between the indoor space and another space is blocked.

[0014] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner and an operation method thereof that can execute power-saving operation in various ways depending on whether the main outlet by the main vane is opened or closed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0015] 〔One Aspect of the Present Invention〕 In the present invention, as one aspect, the following invention is proposed. 〔Claim 1〕 An air conditioner, an indoor unit; an indoor temperature sensor that senses the indoor temperature of the indoor space where the indoor unit is disposed; and a control unit that monitors the indoor temperature via the indoor temperature sensor; comprising, the control unit, when the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a first reference (changes to; has changed to; changes to; becomes; has become: the same hereinafter), starts a power-saving operation, and interrupts the power-saving operation when the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a second reference in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed. An air conditioner characterized by this. 〔Claim 2〕 When the control unit, within a predetermined time, the indoor temperature rises above a first temperature during cooling operation, or the indoor temperature drops below a second temperature during heating operation, the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit determines that the indoor temperature has changed to be equal to or higher than the first reference. 〔Claim 3〕 The air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that the first temperature is lower than the second temperature. 〔Claim 4〕 When the control unit is in a state of executing the power-saving operation, when the indoor temperature drops below a third temperature during cooling operation, or the indoor temperature rises above a fourth temperature during heating operation, the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit determines that the indoor temperature has changed to be equal to or higher than the second reference. 〔Claim 5〕 The air conditioner according to claim 4, characterized in that the third temperature is lower than the fourth temperature. 〔Claim 6〕 further comprising a compressor for compressing a refrigerant; when the control unit is in a state of executing the power-saving operation, when the power consumption of the air conditioner exceeds a first power consumption, the operating frequency of the compressor is reduced, when the power consumption of the air conditioner is less than a second power consumption, the operating frequency of the compressor is increased, the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that the first power consumption is less than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner and exceeds the second power consumption. 〔Claim 7〕 The indoor unit is a wall-mounted indoor unit provided with a case installed on a wall surface, the wall-mounted indoor unit comprises a main air outlet opening downward of the case, a sub air outlet opening in front of the case, and a main vane for opening and closing the main air outlet, the control unit When the operation mode is set to the first mode that does not use the main discharge port, the rotation angle of the main valve is determined as the minimum angle for closing the main discharge port so that air is discharged through the sub-discharge port. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein when the operation mode is set to the second mode that uses the main discharge port, the rotation angle of the main valve is determined as an angle corresponding to a predetermined direction so that the air is discharged through the main discharge port and the sub-discharge port. [Claim 8] The control unit When performing the power-saving operation in a state where the operation mode is set to the first mode, adjust a first target temperature with respect to the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit. The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein when performing the power-saving operation in a state where the operation mode is set to the second mode, adjust a second target temperature with respect to the indoor temperature. [Claim 9] The control unit When the operation mode is set to the first mode, change the first target temperature by a fifth temperature at a predetermined cycle. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein when the operation mode is set to the second mode, change the second target temperature by a sixth temperature higher than the fifth temperature at the predetermined cycle. [Claim 10] The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein a maximum value of the first target temperature set in the power-saving operation is different from a maximum value of the second target temperature. [Claim 11] A method for operating an air conditioner, comprising: An operation of sensing an indoor temperature of an indoor space where an indoor unit is disposed by an indoor temperature sensor; When the indoor temperature changes to a first reference or higher, an operation of starting a power-saving operation; and In a state of performing the power-saving operation, when the indoor temperature changes to a second reference or higher, an operation of interrupting the power-saving operation; A method for operating an air conditioner. [Claim 12] The operation to start the power-saving operation is, within a predetermined time, When the indoor temperature rises above a first temperature during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature drops below a second temperature during heating operation, it includes the operation of determining that the indoor temperature has changed above the first reference. The operation to interrupt the power-saving operation is in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed. When the indoor temperature drops below a third temperature during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature rises above a fourth temperature during heating operation, it includes the operation of determining that the indoor temperature has changed above the second reference. The method for operating an air conditioner according to claim 11, characterized in that. [Claim 13] The first temperature is less than the second temperature. The method for operating an air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that the third temperature is less than the fourth temperature. [Claim 14] It further includes the operation of executing the power-saving operation. The operation of executing the power-saving operation is When the power consumption of the air conditioner exceeds a first power consumption, the operation of reducing the operating frequency of the compressor; When the power consumption of the air conditioner is less than a second power consumption, the operation of increasing the operating frequency of the compressor, and includes. The method for operating an air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that the first power consumption is less than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner and exceeds the second power consumption. [Claim 15] It further includes the operation of executing the power-saving operation; The indoor unit is a wall-mounted indoor unit including a case installed on a wall. The wall-mounted indoor unit is A main air outlet opening below the case; A sub-air outlet opening in front of the case; And a main vane for opening and closing the main air outlet. The operation of executing the power-saving operation is When the power-saving operation is executed in a state where the operation mode is set to the first mode that does not use the main discharge port, an operation of adjusting a first target temperature with respect to the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit, When the power-saving operation is executed in a state where the operation mode is set to the second mode that uses the main discharge port, an operation of adjusting a second target temperature with respect to the indoor temperature, and the method for operating an air conditioner according to claim 12, characterized in that it includes this.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above object, a change in the indoor temperature is sensed by an indoor temperature sensor that senses the indoor temperature of the indoor space where the indoor unit is arranged, and based on the change in the indoor temperature, it is possible to determine whether the indoor space communicates with other spaces.

[0017] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a control unit that monitors the indoor temperature via the indoor temperature sensor. When the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a first reference (changes to; has changed to; changes; has changed; becomes; has become), the power-saving operation is started, and when the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a second reference while the power-saving operation is being executed, the power-saving operation can be interrupted.

[0018] A method for operating an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include an operation of starting a power-saving operation when the indoor temperature of the indoor space where the indoor unit is arranged, sensed by the indoor temperature sensor, changes to be equal to or higher than a first reference, and an operation of interrupting the power-saving operation when the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a second reference while the power-saving operation is being executed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] The effects of the air conditioner and its operation method according to the present disclosure will be described as follows.

[0020] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since air can be discharged so that the air heat-exchanged along the ceiling constituting the indoor space flows, heating and cooling for the entire indoor space can be constantly performed.

[0021] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, air can be discharged so that air that has undergone heat exchange flows toward a specific area of the indoor space, and thus air conditioning for the entire indoor space can be gradually implemented starting from a specific area of the indoor space.

[0022] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, based on changes in the indoor temperature, it is possible to accurately determine whether the indoor space communicates with other spaces.

[0023] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, during the period when the indoor space communicates with other spaces, power-saving operation can be implemented to reduce unnecessary power consumption.

[0024] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the communication between the indoor space and other spaces is blocked, by performing normal operation, it is possible to perform operation according to the user's requirements.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by means of the presence or absence of opening and closing of the main discharge port by the main vane, power-saving operation can be implemented in various ways to perform power-saving operation optimized for a predetermined operation mode.

[0026] The applicable additional scope of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are clearly understandable to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific examples such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as merely illustrative.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figures 6 - 7

Figure 8

Figures 9 - 10

Figures 11 - 12

Figures 13 - 14

Figures 15 - 18

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0028] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, in order to explain the present disclosure clearly and briefly, illustrations of parts not related to the explanation are omitted, and the same reference numerals are given to the same or extremely similar parts throughout the specification.

[0029] The suffixes "module" and "section" for the components used in the following description are given only for the ease of preparing this specification, and do not give any particularly important meaning or role by themselves. Therefore, the "module" and "section" can be used interchangeably with each other.

[0030] In this application, terms such as "comprising" (including; consisting of; constructing; setting; enclosing; containing; having) or "having" are intended to specify that the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification exist, and it should not be construed as precluding the possibility of the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0031] Also, in this specification, terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various elements, but such elements are not limited to such terms. Such terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0032] The direction indicators of up (U), down (D), left (Le), right (Ri), front (F), and rear (R) shown in the drawings are only for the convenience of explanation and do not limit the technical idea disclosed in this specification.

[0033] The configuration of the air conditioner of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0034] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a case 101 that forms an outer shape. The case 101 forms an intake port 12 on the upper side. Air above the case 101 can flow into the inside of the case 101 through the intake port 12.

[0035] The case 101 forms a space inside where a fan 50 (see FIG. 4) and a heat exchanger 70 (see FIG. 4) described below are arranged. The case 101 forms a first discharge port 36 in the front. The air conditioner can include a discharge cover 30 that is arranged in front of the case 101 and forms the first discharge port 36. The air conditioner can have a fixed vane 40 that is arranged on one side of the discharge cover 30 and guides the direction of the air discharged from the first discharge port 36.

[0036] A display 170 can be arranged on the front surface of the case 101.

[0037] On the upper side of the case 101, an intake grille 20 can be arranged. The intake grille 20 is detachably arranged on the case 101.

[0038] The intake grille 20 can be arranged on the upper side of the case 101 where the intake port 12 is formed. The intake grille 20 can include a plurality of ribs 22 extending in the left - right direction or the front - rear direction.

[0039] On the intake grille 20, a mesh 24 for filtering foreign substances in the air flowing into the intake port 12 can be arranged. The mesh 24 can be arranged between the plurality of ribs 22.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, the structure of the air conditioner will be described.

[0041] A display 170 can be arranged on the front surface of the case 101. The display 170 can display information such as the operating state of the air conditioner and the temperature of the indoor space.

[0042] The intake grille 20 can have a form protruding upward. Thus, when viewing the case 101 from the front, it can have a structure in which one side of the intake grille 20 is exposed.

[0043] The first discharge port 36 is arranged at the lower part of the front surface of the case 101. A fixed vane 40 is arranged at the first discharge port 36. The fixed vane 40 is fixedly arranged on one side of the case 101. Thus, the fixed vane 40 can guide the air flowing through the first discharge port 36 in one direction.

[0044] In the case 101, a discharge cover 30 forming the first discharge port 36 can be arranged. The discharge cover 30 can be arranged on the case 101 forming the front surface. The discharge cover 30 can have a structure arranged inside the case 101. The discharge cover 30 can form the first discharge port 36 formed in the left - right direction. The fixed vane 40 can be arranged on the discharge cover 30.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, the configuration of the lower part of the air conditioner will be described.

[0046] The air conditioner includes a lower cover 46. The lower cover 46 is disposed on the open lower side of the case 101. A second discharge port 48 is formed between the lower cover 46 and the case 101. A first moving vane 120 for opening and closing the second discharge port 48 is disposed between the lower cover 46 and the case 101.

[0047] The second discharge port 48 may be formed in front of the lower cover 46.

[0048] The second discharge port 48 can be opened or closed by the arrangement of the moving vane.

[0049] With reference to FIG. 4, the overall configuration of the air conditioner will be schematically described.

[0050] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a case 101 forming an outer shape. The case 101 can have a structure that covers the front surface and both side surfaces. The case 101 can have a structure with an open lower side.

[0051] The case 101 can have a structure with an open upper side. The case 101 can form an intake port 12 on the upper surface. An upper rib 14 can be disposed on the upper surface of the case 101. The upper rib 14 can maintain the arrangement of the intake grill 20.

[0052] The case 101 can form a first discharge port 36 in the front. A discharge cover 30 having the first discharge port 36 formed therein can be disposed in front of the case 101. The discharge cover 30 can also be integrally formed with the case 101.

[0053] The case 101 can have a form with an open rear. The case 101 can form a space inside which a fan 50 and a heat exchanger 70 are disposed.

[0054] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a suction grille 20 disposed at the suction port 12 of the case 101. The suction grille 20 has a plurality of ribs 22 extending in the left-right direction or the front-rear direction. A mesh 24 may be disposed between the plurality of ribs 22.

[0055] The suction grille 20 may be disposed above the upper rib 14 formed in the case 101.

[0056] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a discharge cover 30 forming a first discharge port 36. The discharge cover 30 is fixedly disposed on the front surface of the case 101. A first discharge port 36 extending long in the left-right direction is formed in the discharge cover 30.

[0057] The discharge cover 30 has a plurality of front ribs 38 extending in the vertical direction and spaced apart in the left-right direction. The front ribs 38 can be connected to the fixed vane 40. The front ribs 38 can maintain the arrangement of the fixed vane 40.

[0058] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a fixed vane 40 that guides the direction of the air discharged from the first discharge port 36. The fixed vane 40 may be fixedly disposed on the discharge cover 30. The fixed vane 40 may be fixedly disposed on the case 101.

[0059] The fixed vane 40 can have a structure connected to each of the plurality of front ribs 38 of the discharge cover 30. The fixed vane 40 can send the air flowing through the first discharge port 36 in a direction parallel to the ground or upward with respect to the direction parallel to the ground.

[0060] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a lower cover 46 disposed on the lower surface of the case 101. The lower cover 46 may be disposed so as to cover a partial area of the open lower side of the case 101. A second discharge port 48 may be formed in the lower cover 46.

[0061] The lower cover 46 is detachably arranged on the case 101. The lower cover 46 can be fixedly arranged on the case 101 or the inner body 80 described below. The lower cover 46 can be plate-shaped with a substantially "C" shape. A second discharge port 48 can be formed between the case 101 and the lower cover 46.

[0062] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a stabilizer 100. The stabilizer 100 can guide the flow of the air discharged by the fan 50. The stabilizer 100 can guide the upper side of the air flowing forward and downward by the fan 50. The stabilizer 100 can support one side of the heat exchanger 70.

[0063] Moving vanes 120 and 130 can be arranged on the stabilizer 100. The moving vanes 120 and 130 can be arranged so that their arrangements on the stabilizer 100 are changed.

[0064] A vane motor 108 for changing the arrangements of the moving vanes 120 and 130 can be arranged on the stabilizer 100.

[0065] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a first moving vane 120 that opens and closes the second discharge port 48. The moving vanes 120 and 130 can guide the direction of the air discharged from the second discharge port 48. The moving vanes 120 and 130 can guide the air flowing through the fan 50 to the first discharge port 36.

[0066] The air conditioner of the present disclosure is arranged inside the case 101 and includes an inner body 80 that rotatably supports the fan 50. The fan 50 can be arranged on the inner body 80. A fan motor 52 for rotating the fan 50 can be arranged on the inner body 80.

[0067] The inner body 80 is fixedly arranged inside the case 101. The inner body 80 can guide the air flowing rearward or downward by the fan 50. The inner body 80 may be provided with louvers 90 for adjusting the direction of the flowing air left and right. The louvers 90 can guide the direction of the air flowing to the first discharge port 36 or the second discharge port 48 left and right.

[0068] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a fan 50 that sends air from the suction port 12 to the first discharge port 36 or the second discharge port 48. The fan 50 is rotatably arranged inside the case 101. The fan 50 can use a cross-flow fan that sucks air on one side in the radial direction with respect to the rotation axis and discharges air to the other side in the radial direction.

[0069] The fan 50 can suck air from the suction port 12 located above the fan 50. Also, the fan 50 can discharge air to the first discharge port 36 or the second discharge port 48 located below the fan 50.

[0070] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a fan motor 52 that rotates the fan 50. The fan motor 52 is arranged on one side of the inner body 80.

[0071] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a motor cover 54 that covers one side of the fan motor 52. The motor cover 54 can be attached to the inner body 80. The motor cover 54 can be attached to one side of the inner body 80 or a control box 60 described below.

[0072] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a heat exchanger 70 that exchanges heat with the air flowing inside the case 101. The heat exchanger 70 can exchange heat between the refrigerant and the air. The heat exchanger 70 can exchange heat with the air discharged into the indoor space. The heat exchanger 70 can exchange heat with the air flowing to the first discharge port 36 or the second discharge port 48.

[0073] The heat exchanger 70 can have at least one bent form. The heat exchanger 70 is disposed above the fan 50. The heat exchanger 70 can effect heat exchange with the air flowing through the fan 50.

[0074] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a control box 60 in which electrical components for adjusting the operation of the air conditioner are disposed. The control box 60 can be mounted on one side of the inner body 80. The control box 60 can be disposed on one side of the fan motor 52. The fan motor 52 can be disposed between the control box 60 and the fan 50.

[0075] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a display 170 for displaying temperature or the operating state. The display 170 can be disposed on one side of the control box 60. The display 170 is disposed inside the case 101. The display 170 is disposed behind the front wall of the case 101. The display 170 can output the state to the front wall of the case 101.

[0076] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a rear cover 190 disposed behind the case 101. The rear cover 190 can be used to mount the air conditioner on a wall surface. The rear cover 190 can have a structure that is coupled to the case 101 or the inner body 80.

[0077] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes a heat exchanger holder 180 disposed on one side of the inner body 80 and maintaining the arrangement of the heat exchanger 70. The heat exchanger holder 180 is fixedly disposed on the inner body 80. The fan 50 is rotatably disposed in a region where the heat exchanger holder 180 is coupled to the inner body 80.

[0078] The heat exchanger holder 180 is disposed so as to be coupled to the inner body 80 on the opposite side where the fan motor 52 is disposed.

[0079] The air conditioner of the present disclosure includes an upper cover 61 that covers the upper side of the control box 60 or the fan motor 52. The upper cover 61 can cover the upper side of the fan motor 52 in the open area on the upper side of the case 101.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 5, the arrangement of the components visible in the cross-section of the air conditioner will be described.

[0081] An intake port 12 is formed on the upper side of the case 101. The intake port 12 is formed above the fan 50.

[0082] The heat exchanger 70 is disposed above the fan 50. The heat exchanger 70 can have a structure that is banded in at least one area. The heat exchanger 70 of the present disclosure can include a section banded in two areas.

[0083] The heat exchanger 70 includes a first heat exchanger 70a disposed in front of the fan 50, a second heat exchanger 70b banded from the first heat exchanger 70a and extending upward and rearward, and a third heat exchanger 70c banded by the second heat exchanger 70b and extending downward and rearward.

[0084] One end of the heat exchanger 70 is disposed above the stabilizer 100. The other end of the heat exchanger 70 is disposed above the inner body 80.

[0085] The fan 50 is disposed between the inner body 80 and the stabilizer 100. The fan 50 sucks air from the front and the upper side by rotation. The fan 50 discharges air to the rear and the lower side by rotation.

[0086] The air flowing by the fan 50 can flow into the discharge flow path 18 formed by the inner body 80 and the stabilizer 100.

[0087] The inner body 80 is disposed behind and below the fan 50.

[0088] The inner body 80 is disposed behind the fan 50 and includes a support body 82 that supports one side of the heat exchanger 70, and a guide body 84 that guides the air flowing due to the rotation of the fan 50 to the front lower side.

[0089] The guide body 84 includes an inflow guide body 85 that protrudes above the fan 50 and guides the air flowing into the fan 50. The guide body 84 includes a first guide 86 that guides the air flowing due to the rotation of the fan 50 to the front lower side.

[0090] The first guide 86 can be arranged so as to move away from the fan 50 as it goes downward. The first guide 86 can include an upper guide 86a having a curved surface shape around the fan 50, and a lower guide 86b that extends forward downward from the lower end portion of the upper guide 86a.

[0091] A louver 90 that adjusts the direction of the air flowing downward due to the rotation of the fan 50 in the left - right direction can be arranged on one side of the first guide 86. The arrangement of the louver 90 can be changed in the left - right direction by a separate louver motor (not shown).

[0092] A sterilization lamp 92 that irradiates left - outer - line light in the direction in which the fan 50 is arranged can be arranged on one side of the first guide 86. The sterilization lamp 92 can be arranged on the side where the louver 90 is arranged.

[0093] The stabilizer 100 is arranged at a distance above the first guide 86 of the inner body 80.

[0094] The stabilizer 100 includes a second guide 102 that is arranged at a distance above the first guide 86, an end guide 104 that is banded from the upper end portion of the second guide 102 and extends upward, and a plurality of upper protrusions 106 that extend upward while being spaced apart in the front - rear direction from the upper surface of the second guide 102.

[0095] The second guide 102 includes at least two walls having inclined surfaces different from each other. The second guide 102 can form a discharge flow path 18 between it and the first guide 86.

[0096] Moving vanes 120 and 130 can be arranged on the stabilizer 100. Inside the case 101, moving vanes 120 and 130 for adjusting the direction of the air discharged to the second discharge port 48 can be arranged. The moving vanes 120 and 130 include a first moving vane 120 that opens and closes the second discharge port 48, and a second moving vane 130 arranged on the discharge flow path 18.

[0097] The first moving vane 120 and the second moving vane 130 can be connected by a plurality of links. The air conditioner can include a drive link 140 connected to the vane motor 108, a first link 142 connecting the drive link 140 and the first moving vane 120, and a second link 144 connecting the drive link 140 and the second moving vane 130. The air conditioner can include an auxiliary link 146 connecting the stabilizer 100 and the first moving vane 120.

[0098] The first moving vane 120 can open and close the second discharge port 48. The second moving vane 130 can be arranged above the first moving vane 120. The length of the first moving vane 120 formed in the front-rear direction may be longer than the length of the second moving vane 130 formed in the front-rear direction.

[0099] A net steel 160 can be arranged on the stabilizer 100. The net steel 160 can prevent a user or the like from approaching the fan 50 side through the inside of the discharge flow path 18.

[0100] The second discharge port 48 is located on the lower surface of the case 101. The first discharge port 36 is located on the front surface of the case 101. When arranged at a position closing the second discharge port 48, the first moving vane 120 can guide the air flowing by the fan 50 to the first discharge port 36.

[0101] On one side of the case 101 that opens forward, the discharge cover 30 can be arranged. A first discharge port 36 is formed in the discharge cover 30. The discharge cover 30 includes a lower discharge cover 34 connected to the lower end of the case 101 and an upper discharge cover 32 arranged at a distance above the lower discharge cover 34.

[0102] A fixed vane 40 for guiding the air discharged to the first discharge port 36 is arranged in the discharge cover 30.

[0103] The case 101 includes an edge wall 16 connected to the lower discharge cover 34 at the lower end of the front surface.

[0104] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, the content related to the configuration that allows the air discharged by the fan 50 to flow in a state where the first moving vane 120 closes the second discharge port 48 will be specifically described.

[0105] The first guide 86 of the inner body 80 and the second guide 102 of the stabilizer 100 form a discharge flow path 18. The first guide 86 of the inner body 80, the second guide 102 of the stabilizer 100, and the first moving vane 120 can form the discharge flow path 18.

[0106] The inclination angle θ1 formed by the first guide 86 of the inner body 80 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL parallel to the ground may be larger than the inclination angle θ2 formed by the second guide 102 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL.

[0107] That is, the width formed by the cross-section of the discharge flow path 18 formed between the first guide 86 of the inner body 80 and the second guide 102 of the stabilizer 100 can increase as it moves away from the fan 50.

[0108] The second guide 102 includes a rear guide 102a, an intermediate guide 102b extending forward from the rear guide 102a, and a front guide 102c extending forward from the intermediate guide 102b.

[0109] The rear guide 102a can be arranged to extend forward and downward as it moves away from the fan 50. The rear guide 102a can have a form that is inclined forward and downward.

[0110] The rear guide 102a can form the discharge channel 18 together with the lower guide 86b of the first guide 86. The inclination angle θ2 formed by the rear guide 102a with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL may be smaller than the inclination angle θ1 formed by the first guide 86 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL.

[0111] A part of the rear guide 102a is arranged above the first guide 86. Another part of the rear guide 102a is arranged above the second discharge port 48. Another part of the rear guide 102a is arranged above the first moving vane 120.

[0112] The length 102aL that the rear guide 102a extends in the front-rear direction may be longer than the length 102bL that the intermediate guide 102b extends in the front-rear direction. The length 102aL that the rear guide 102a extends in the front-rear direction may be shorter than the length 86bL that the lower guide 86b of the first guide 86 extends in the front-rear direction.

[0113] The intermediate guide 102b can be arranged parallel to the ground. The intermediate guide 102b is arranged above the second discharge port 48. The intermediate guide 102b can be arranged above the first moving vane 120. The intermediate guide 102b is arranged substantially parallel to the first moving vane 120 in a state where the second discharge port 48 is closed.

[0114] The length 102bL that the intermediate guide 102b extends in the front-rear direction may be shorter than the length 120L that the first moving vane 120 extends in the front-rear direction. The length 120aL that the rear guide 102a extends in the front-rear direction can be 1.5 to 3 times the length 102bL that the intermediate guide 102b extends in the front-rear direction.

[0115] The included angle θ3 formed by the intermediate guide 102b and the rear guide 102a may be larger than the included angle θ4 formed by the first guide 86 and the first moving vane 120 in a state where the second discharge port 48 is closed.

[0116] The length 102bL that the intermediate guide 102b extends in the front-rear direction may be longer than the length 102cL that the front guide 102c extends in the front-rear direction. The length 102bL that the intermediate guide 102b extends in the front-rear direction can be 2 to 4 times the length 102cL that the front guide 102c extends in the front-rear direction.

[0117] The front guide 102c can extend downward and forward from the intermediate guide 102b. The front guide 102c is connected to the upper part 32 of the discharge cover 30 of the discharge cover.

[0118] The front guide 102c is disposed above the second discharge port 48. The front guide 102c is disposed above the first moving vane 120.

[0119] The first guide 86 is disposed around the fan 50 and includes an upper guide 86a having a banded form. The upper guide 86a can be formed such that the separation distance from the fan 50 increases as it goes downward.

[0120] The upper guide 86a can be disposed above the second guide 102 with respect to the vertical direction. The upper guide 86a can guide the air discharged rearward by the rotation of the fan 50 downward.

[0121] The first guide 86 includes a lower guide 86b that guides the air flowing downward by the rotation of the fan 50 forward. The lower guide 86b can have a structure that extends downward and forward.

[0122] The first guide 86 can guide the air flowing by the rotation of the fan 50 to the second discharge port 48. The lower guide 86b of the first guide 86 has a structure that extends toward the second discharge port 48.

[0123] The first moving vane 120 can be disposed at a position closing the second discharge port 48. The first moving vane 120 includes a vane upper surface 121 that contacts the air flowing by the rotation of the fan 50. The first moving vane 120 includes a vane lower surface 122 disposed in the opposite direction to the vane upper surface 121.

[0124] Referring to the drawings, the vane upper surface 121 and the vane lower surface 122 can be formed on different plates from each other. However, different from the drawings, the vane upper surface 121 and the vane lower surface 122 can also be formed on a single plate.

[0125] The vane upper surface 121 can be disposed substantially parallel to the intermediate guide 102b of the second guide 102. The vane upper surface 121 can contact the air flowing along the discharge flow path 18. The vane upper surface 121 can guide the air flowing along the discharge flow path 18.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 6, when the first moving vane 120 closes the second discharge port 48, the air flowing through the discharge flow path 18 can move along the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120 and flow to the first discharge port 36.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 6, the state where the first moving vane 120 closes the second discharge port 48 can be set as the first position P1 of the moving vane. That is, in the state where the moving vane is at the first position P1, the first moving vane 120 can be disposed to close the second discharge port 48.

[0128] A plurality of protrusions 121c protruding upward and spaced apart in the front-rear direction can be formed on the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120. The plurality of protrusions 121c can prevent dew condensation on the upper side of the first moving vane 120.

[0129] The rear end portion 121b of the vane upper surface 121 can form an inclined surface extending downward as it goes rearward. The front end portion 121a of the vane upper surface 121 can form an inclined surface extending downward as it goes forward.

[0130] The longitudinal length 121bL in the front-rear direction of the rear end portion 121b can be 0.1 to 0.2 times the longitudinal length 120L in the front-rear direction of the first moving vane 120. The longitudinal length 121aL in the front-rear direction of the front end portion 121a can be 0.1 to 0.2 times the longitudinal length 120L in the front-rear direction of the first moving vane 120.

[0131] A heat insulating material can be disposed inside the first moving vane 120.

[0132] The second moving vane 130 can be disposed above the first moving vane 120. With the first moving vane 120 closing the second discharge port 48, the second moving vane 130 can be disposed to send air forward.

[0133] At the first position P1 of the moving vane, the second moving vane 130 sends the air flowing forward and downward through the discharge flow path 18 to the first discharge port 36. At the first position P1 of the moving vane, the second moving vane 130 can be disposed in a form bulging downward.

[0134] At the first position P1 of the moving vane, the rear end portion 121b of the first moving vane 120 can be disposed to face the rear upper side. At the first position P1 of the moving vane, the front end portion 121a of the first moving vane 120 can be disposed to face forward or the front upper side.

[0135] The length 130L formed in the front-rear direction of the second moving vane 130 can be formed to be half or less of the length 120L formed by the first moving vane 120 in the front-rear direction.

[0136] The discharge cover 30 is disposed at the front portion of the case 101. The discharge cover 30 can be disposed inside the case 101. Inside the discharge cover 30, a first discharge port flow path 30a for guiding the air flowing through the discharge flow path 18 to the first discharge port 36 can be formed.

[0137] The first discharge port flow path 30a can be formed between the upper part 32 of the discharge cover and the lower part 34 of the discharge cover. The first discharge port 36 can be formed at the front end of the first discharge port flow path 30a.

[0138] The lower part 34 of the discharge cover can include an inclined guide wall 34a that forms an inclined surface on the front upper side, and a vane corresponding wall 34b that is arranged to face the first moving vane 120.

[0139] The inclined guide wall 34a causes the air flowing along the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120 to flow forward and upward. The inclined guide wall 34a can guide the air flowing along the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120 to the first discharge port 36.

[0140] The inclined guide wall 34a can be inclined upward relative to the surface formed by the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120. That is, the air flowing through the discharge flow path 18 and flowing along the upper surface of the first moving vane 120 can be made to flow upward. Thus, the air discharged through the first discharge port 36 can be discharged in the forward horizontal direction or above the forward horizontal direction. Therefore, the air discharged forward through the first discharge port 36 can be sent over a long distance.

[0141] The front end of the inclined guide wall 34a can be connected to the edge wall 16 of the case 101. The front end of the inclined guide wall 34a connected to the edge wall 16 of the case 101 can be arranged substantially horizontally.

[0142] The vane corresponding wall 34b is arranged to face the front end 121a of the first moving vane 120 arranged at the first position P1.

[0143] The upper part 32 of the discharge cover can form a substantially horizontal surface. The upper part 32 of the discharge cover can have a structure extending from the second guide 102.

[0144] The fixed vane 40 is disposed between the lower discharge cover 34 and the upper discharge cover 32. The fixed vane 40 extends in the front-rear direction and can guide the flow of air discharged to the first discharge port 36. The fixed vane 40 can have a structure that extends upward as it goes forward.

[0145] The inclination angle θ5 formed by the fixed vane 40 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL may be smaller than the inclination angle θ6 formed by the lower discharge cover 34 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL. The inclination angle θ5 formed by the fixed vane 40 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL may be smaller than the inclination angle θ6 formed by the inclined guide wall 34a of the lower discharge cover 34 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL.

[0146] The inclination angle θ5 formed by the fixed vane 40 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL may be larger than the inclination angle θ7 formed by the vane upper surface 121 of the first moving vane 120 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL. The inclination angle θ5 formed by the fixed vane 40 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL may be larger than the inclination angle θ8 formed by the upper discharge cover 32 with respect to the virtual horizontal line HL.

[0147] The first discharge port flow path 30a can be formed such that the cross-sectional area of the flow path becomes smaller as it goes forward. The first discharge port flow path 30a can be formed such that the vertical separation distance becomes smaller as it goes forward.

[0148] The area of the first discharge port 36 may be smaller than the area of the second discharge port 48. Referring to FIG. 6, the interval 36h formed by the first discharge port 36 in the vertical direction may be smaller than the interval 48w formed by the second discharge port 48 in the front-rear direction.

[0149] The air flowing due to the rotation of the fan 50 flows forward and downward along the discharge flow path 18. Also, the air flowing between the first moving vane 120 and the second guide 102 can be discharged to the first discharge port 36 through the first discharge port flow path 30a. The air discharged to the first discharge port 36 through the first discharge port flow path 30a can flow forward and upward.

[0150] Therefore, when the moving vane is at the first position P1, air can be discharged through the first discharge port 36. By the operation of the fan 50, air can be discharged forward of the case 101 through the first discharge port 36. Here, the air discharged from the first discharge port 36 can flow a long distance forward.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 7, the arrangement of the moving vane and the flow of air when the moving vane is at the second position P2 will be described.

[0152] The second position P2 of the moving vane may be a state in which the second discharge port 48 is open. Thus, at the second position P2 of the moving vane, the first moving vane 120 can be arranged below the second discharge port 48. At the second position P2 of the moving vane, the first moving vane 120 can be arranged at a position spaced downward from the second discharge port 48. At the second position P2 of the moving vane, the first moving vane 120 can cause the air flowing into the second discharge port 48 to flow forward downward or downward.

[0153] Different from the drawing, at the second position P2 of the moving vane, a part of the first moving vane 120 may be located above the second discharge port 48.

[0154] When moving from the first position P1 of the moving vane to the second position P2 of the moving vane, the second moving vane 130 can move downward. When moving from the first position P1 of the moving vane to the second position P2 of the moving vane, the second moving vane 130 can be arranged to be inclined downward.

[0155] At the second position P2 of the moving vane, the first moving vane 120 can guide the direction of the air flowing into the second discharge port 48. At the second position P2 of the moving vane, the air discharged from the second discharge port 48 can flow forward downward along the first moving vane 120.

[0156] At the second position P2 of the moving vane, both the first discharge port 36 and the second discharge port 48 are opened. Here, the air flowing through the discharge flow path 18 can flow to the second discharge port 48 that is open to the front lower side as the main flow direction. It is also possible for some air to be discharged from the first discharge port 36. However, most of the air is discharged through the second discharge port 48 and can flow forward downward or downward along the first moving vane 120 arranged to open the second discharge port 48.

[0157] When the moving vane is arranged at the second position P2, the air discharged to the second discharge port 48 and / or the first discharge port 36 can flow forward downward. Since the main air flow of the discharged air is discharged through the second discharge port 48, the air can be discharged forward downward.

[0158] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 8, the air conditioner 1 can include a communication unit 310, a sensor unit 320, a memory 330, a fan driving unit 340 that drives a fan 341, a compressor driving unit 350 that drives a compressor 351, a vane 360 and / or a control unit 370.

[0160] The communication unit 310 can include at least one communication module. For example, the communication unit 310 can be provided in each of the outdoor unit and the indoor unit 10, and the outdoor unit and the indoor unit 10 can transmit and receive data to and from each other.

[0161] The communication method between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit 10 can be, for example, a communication method using power, a serial communication method (for example, RS-485 communication), a wired communication method via a refrigerant pipe, as well as wireless communication methods such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Beacon, and ZigBee.

[0162] The communication unit 310 can transmit and receive data with an external device. For example, the communication unit 310 can also connect to a server connected to an external network to transmit and receive data.

[0163] The sensor unit 320 can include at least one sensor, and can transmit data about the detection value detected by the sensor to the control unit 370.

[0164] The sensor unit 320 can include a heat exchange temperature sensor (not shown). For example, the heat exchange temperature sensor is disposed in the indoor heat exchanger 70 and can detect the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 70.

[0165] The sensor unit 320 can include a pipe temperature sensor (not shown). The pipe temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each pipe of the air conditioner 1. For example, the pipe temperature sensor is disposed on the inlet side pipe and / or the outlet side pipe of the indoor unit 10 and can detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the pipe. For example, the pipe temperature sensor is disposed on the pipe connected to the compressor 351 of the outdoor unit and can detect the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the compressor 351 (hereinafter referred to as the refrigerant suction temperature) and / or the temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 351 (hereinafter referred to as the refrigerant discharge temperature).

[0166] The sensor unit 310 can include a pressure sensor (not shown). The pressure sensor (not shown) can detect the pressure of the gaseous refrigerant flowing through each pipe of the air conditioner 1. For example, the pressure sensor is disposed on the pipe connected to the compressor 351 and can detect the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the compressor 351 (hereinafter referred to as the suction pressure) and / or the pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 351 (hereinafter referred to as the discharge pressure).

[0167] The sensor unit 320 can include an indoor temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the indoor temperature and / or an outdoor temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the outdoor temperature.

[0168] The sensor unit 320 can include an indoor humidity sensor (not shown) that detects the humidity inside the room and / or an outdoor humidity sensor (not shown) that detects the humidity outside the room.

[0169] The memory 330 can store data regarding reference values related to the operations of each component provided in the air conditioner 1.

[0170] The memory 330 can store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit 370, and can store processed data and data to be processed. For example, the memory 330 stores application programs designed for the purpose of executing various operations that can be processed by the control unit 370, and can selectively provide a part of the stored application programs when requested by the control unit 370.

[0171] The memory 330 can include, for example, at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.), a non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), and solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0172] The fan drive unit 340 can drive the fan 341 provided in the air conditioner 1. For example, the fan 341 can include an outdoor fan and / or an indoor fan 50. The indoor fan 50 can be said to be a blower fan 50.

[0173] The fan drive unit 340 can include a rectifying unit (not shown) that rectifies an AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it, a DC terminal capacitor (not shown) that stores the pulsating voltage from the rectifying unit, a plurality of switching elements, an inverter (not shown) that converts the smoothed DC power supply into a three-phase AC power supply of a predetermined frequency and outputs it, and / or at least one motor that drives the fan 341 by the three-phase AC power supply output from the inverter.

[0174] On the one hand, the fan drive unit 340 can be configured to separately drive the outdoor fan and the indoor fan 50. For example, the air conditioner 1 can include a first fan drive unit for driving the outdoor fan and a second fan drive unit for driving the indoor fan 50.

[0175] The compressor drive unit 350 can drive the compressor 351. The compressor drive unit 350 can include a rectifier unit (not shown) that rectifies an AC power supply into a DC power supply and outputs it, a DC terminal capacitor (not shown) that stores the pulsating voltage from the rectifier unit, a plurality of switching elements, an inverter (not shown) that converts and outputs the smoothed DC power supply into a three-phase AC power supply of a predetermined frequency, and / or a compressor motor that drives the compressor 351 by the three-phase AC power supply output from the inverter.

[0176] The vane 360 can be disposed at the air outlet of the indoor unit 10 through which the air flowing inside the indoor unit 10 is discharged by the indoor fan 50. The vane 360 can include a fixed vane 40 disposed at the first air outlet 36 and a first movable vane 120 disposed at the second air outlet 48. Hereinafter, the first air outlet 36 can be referred to as a sub-air outlet, and the second air outlet 48 can be referred to as a main air outlet. The fixed vane 40 can be referred to as a sub-vane, and the first movable vane 120 can be referred to as a main vane.

[0177] The air conditioner 1 can further include a vane motor that drives the vane 360, a link connected between the vane 360 and the vane motor, and the like. For example, when the link rotates due to the rotation of the vane motor, the direction in which the vane 360 moves can be changed. Here, by changing the direction in which the vane 360 moves, the direction (hereinafter referred to as the direction) in which the air is discharged through the air outlet of the indoor unit 10 can be changed. The vane motor can be embodied as a step motor, but is not limited thereto.

[0178] The control unit 370 can control the overall operation of the air conditioner 1. The control unit 370 can be connected to each component provided in the air conditioner 1, and can transmit and / or receive signals with each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0179] The control unit 370 can control the operation of the fan drive unit 340 to change the rotation speed of the fan 341. For example, the fan drive unit 340 can change the rotation speed of the outdoor fan by changing the frequency of the three-phase AC power supply output to the outdoor fan motor under the control of the control unit 370. For example, the fan drive unit 340 can change the rotation speed of the indoor fan 50 by changing the frequency of the three-phase AC power supply output to the indoor fan motor under the control of the control unit 370.

[0180] The control unit 370 can control the operation of the compressor drive unit 350 to change the operating frequency of the compressor 351. For example, the compressor drive unit 350 can change the operating frequency of the compressor 351 by changing the frequency of the three-phase AC power supply output to the compressor motor under the control of the control unit 370.

[0181] The control unit 370 can be provided not only in the outdoor unit, but also in the indoor unit 10, a central controller (not shown) that controls the operation of the outdoor unit and / or the indoor unit 10, etc.

[0182] The control unit 370 can include at least one processor, and can use the processor included therein to control the overall operation of the air conditioner 1. Here, the processor can be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor can be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0183] The control unit 370 can acquire data related to each component provided in the air conditioner 1. Here, the control unit 370 can also acquire data related to each component provided in the air conditioner 1 at a predetermined cycle with a certain time interval in consideration of the calculation load.

[0184] Based on the acquired data, the control unit 370 can execute various calculations and control the overall operations of each component provided in the air conditioner 1 according to the calculation results.

[0185] The data related to each component provided in the air conditioner 1 can include, for example, the operating frequency of the compressor 351, the refrigerant suction temperature of the compressor 351, the refrigerant discharge temperature, the suction pressure, the discharge pressure, the piping temperature on the inlet side of the indoor unit 10, the piping temperature on the outlet side of the indoor unit 10, the indoor temperature, the outdoor temperature, the opening degree of the electronic expansion valve (EEV), and the like.

[0186] On the other hand, the air conditioner 1 can further include an input device that can receive user input. For example, when the air conditioner 1 receives user input via an input device (such as a touch panel, keys, etc.), it can execute an operation corresponding to the user input.

[0187] The air conditioner 1 can further include an output device that outputs a message about the operating state of the air conditioner 1. For example, the output device can include a display device such as a display 14, a light emitting diode (LED), etc. and / or an audio device such as a speaker, a buzzer, etc.

[0188] The control unit 370 can control the vane 360 according to the operation mode. The operation mode of the air conditioner 1 can be set to either a first mode in which the main discharge port 48 is closed so that air is not discharged through the main discharge port 48 or a second mode in which the main discharge port 48 is opened so that air is discharged through the main discharge port 48.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 9, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the first mode, the main discharge port 48 can be closed by the main vane 120. Here, the air flowing into the interior of the indoor unit 10 through the suction port 12 of the indoor unit 10 can flow through the discharge passage 18 by the rotation of the indoor fan 50 and reach the sub-discharge port 36. The air flowing to the sub-discharge port 36 can be discharged into the indoor space along the first discharge direction AD1 corresponding to the sub-vane 40. For example, the first discharge direction AD1 corresponding to the sub-vane 40 can be a direction corresponding to the forward direction F. For example, the first discharge direction AD1 corresponding to the sub-vane 40 can be a direction inclined upward U so as to form a predetermined angle with respect to the forward direction F.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 10, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the first mode, the indoor temperature (1101), PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) 1102, and PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied) (1103) in the indoor space can be confirmed. Here, PMV can be a value obtained by predicting the average value of people's expressions of intention with respect to a seven-level thermal sensation scale. The larger the PMV value, the greater the degree of feeling cold, and the smaller the PMV value, the greater the degree of feeling hot. PPD is a value obtained by predicting the percentage of people who feel discomfort due to heat, and the unit can be %. PMV and PPD can be calculated based on the activity amount (metabolic rate), clothing amount (thermal resistance), temperature (air temperature), mean radiant temperature, relative air velocity, partial water vapor pressure, and the like.

[0191] When the main discharge port 48 is closed by the main vane 120, after flowing into the interior of the indoor unit 10 through the suction port 12 of the indoor unit 10, the heat-exchanged air can be discharged along the first discharge direction AD1 through the sub-discharge port 36. The air discharged along the first discharge direction AD1 can flow along the ceiling that constitutes the indoor space. Here, heating and cooling for the entire indoor space can be constantly performed by the air flowing along the ceiling.

[0192] According to one embodiment, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the first mode, the compressor 351 can be controlled based on the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 70. For example, when the operation mode is set to the first mode, the user can set a target value (hereinafter referred to as the target discharge temperature) for the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 via the remote control. Here, the air conditioner 1 can control the compressor 351 so that the temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 70 detected by the heat exchange temperature sensor corresponds to a predetermined discharge target temperature. That is, when the heat-exchanged air flows along the ceiling and the indoor space is heated and cooled as a whole from the ceiling, the user can directly adjust the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10. For example, during the cooling operation, the user can set the target discharge temperature in the temperature range of 16°C to 20°C.

[0193] On the other hand, referring to FIG. 11, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the second mode, the main discharge port 48 can be opened by rotating the main vane 120 by a predetermined angle. Here, a part of the air flowing into the interior of the indoor unit 10 through the suction port 12 of the indoor unit 10 can flow to the main discharge port 48 through the discharge flow path 18 by the rotation of the indoor fan 50. The air flowing to the main discharge port 48 can be discharged into the indoor space along the second discharge direction AD2 corresponding to the main vane 120. For example, the second discharge direction AD2 corresponding to the main vane 120 can be a direction inclined downward D so as to form a predetermined angle with respect to the forward direction F.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 12, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the second mode, the indoor temperature 481, PMV 482, and PPD 483 of the indoor space can be confirmed.

[0195] When the main discharge port 48 is opened by the main vane 120, after flowing into the interior of the indoor unit 10 through the suction port 12 of the indoor unit 10, a part of the heat-exchanged air can be discharged along the first discharge direction AD1 through the sub-discharge port 36, and the remainder can be discharged along the second discharge direction AD2 through the main discharge port 48. Here, the amount of air discharged along the first discharge direction AD1 can be less than the amount of air discharged along the second discharge direction AD2. The air discharged along the second discharge direction AD2 can flow toward a specific area of the indoor space corresponding to the second discharge direction AD2. Here, by the air flowing toward a specific area of the indoor space, heating and cooling can be gradually performed from a specific area of the indoor space to the entire indoor space.

[0196] According to one embodiment, when the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the second mode, the compressor 351 can be controlled based on the indoor temperature. For example, when the operation mode is set to the second mode, the user can set the indoor target temperature for the indoor space via the remote control. Here, the air conditioner 1 can control the compressor 351 so that the indoor temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor corresponds to a predetermined indoor target temperature. That is, when the heat-exchanged air flows toward the bottom and a specific area of the indoor space is intensively heated and cooled, the temperature of the indoor space can reach or be maintained at the indoor target temperature set by the user. During the cooling operation, the greater the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor target temperature, the lower the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10, and the smaller the temperature difference, the higher the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 can be. For example, during the cooling operation, when the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the indoor target temperature is 3°C or more, the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 is 11°C, and when the temperature difference is less than 0°C, the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 can be 17°C.

[0197] According to an embodiment, the rotational speed of the indoor fan 50 corresponding to a predetermined air volume may vary depending on the mode. When the air volume is set to a predetermined level, the rotational speed of the indoor fan 50 in a state where the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 is set to the first mode may be less than the rotational speed of the indoor fan 50 in a state where it is set to the second mode. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the noise generated by the rotation of the indoor fan 50 in a state where the main outlet 48 is closed by the main vane 120.

[0198] FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts showing an operation method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 13, the air conditioner 1 can monitor the indoor temperature of the indoor space via the indoor temperature sensor in operation S1310.

[0200] The air conditioner 1 can determine in operation S1320 whether the indoor temperature has changed to a predetermined first reference or more. Here, the first reference can be applied to vary depending on whether the air conditioner 1 performs a cooling operation or a heating operation in consideration of the cooling and heating capabilities of the air conditioner 1, the air density due to temperature, and the like. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is performing a cooling operation, it can determine whether the indoor temperature has risen by 1.5° C. or more within 5 minutes, which is a predetermined time. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is performing a heating operation, it can determine whether the indoor temperature has dropped by 2.5° C. or more within 5 minutes, which is a predetermined time.

[0201] In operation S1330, when the indoor temperature has changed to a predetermined first reference or more, the air conditioner 1 can start a power-saving operation. Here, the power-saving operation can be an operation that reduces the power consumed by the air conditioner 1. For example, when the air conditioner 1 performs a power-saving operation, prior to entering the power-saving operation, the compressor 351 can be driven at an operating frequency lower than the operating frequency of the compressor 351 in the operation according to the operation mode (hereinafter referred to as normal operation). For example, when the air conditioner 1 performs a power-saving operation, the outdoor fan can be driven at a rotational speed lower than the rotational speed of the outdoor fan in normal operation.

[0202] According to an embodiment, when the air conditioner 1 executes power-saving operation, it can determine a second power consumption that is smaller than the first power consumption by a predetermined power, where the first power consumption is smaller than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner 1. Here, when the current power consumption of the air conditioner 1 exceeds the first power consumption, the air conditioner 1 can lower the operating frequency of the compressor 351. On the other hand, when the current power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is less than the second power consumption that is smaller than the first power consumption by a predetermined power, the air conditioner 1 can increase the operating frequency of the compressor 351.

[0203] According to an embodiment, the air conditioner 1 can execute power-saving operation depending on whether the operation mode uses the main outlet 48. This will be described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0204] Referring to FIG. 14, in operation S1410, the air conditioner 1 can determine whether an operation (hereinafter referred to as maximum power-saving operation) that maximally reduces the power consumed by the air conditioner 1 is executed. For example, when the operating frequency of the compressor 351 corresponds to a predetermined minimum frequency, the air conditioner 1 can determine that the maximum power-saving operation is executed. For example, when the temperature set as a control reference for heating and cooling corresponds to the highest temperature during cooling or the lowest temperature during heating, the air conditioner 1 can determine that the maximum power-saving operation is executed.

[0205] In operation S1420, when the maximum power-saving operation is not executed, the air conditioner 1 can determine whether the operation mode uses the main outlet 48. For example, the user can input a command to set the operation mode of the air conditioner 1 to the air conditioner 1 via a remote control. Here, the air conditioner 1 can set the operation mode based on the control command received from the remote control.

[0206] When the air conditioner 1 is in the S1430 operation and the operation mode is set to the first mode, the predetermined discharge target temperature can be changed by the first temperature. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the cooling operation, the predetermined discharge target temperature can be increased by 0.5 °C. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the heating operation, the predetermined discharge target temperature can be decreased by 0.5 °C.

[0207] When the air conditioner 1 is in the S1440 operation and the operation mode is set to the second mode, the predetermined indoor target temperature can be changed by the second temperature. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the cooling operation, the predetermined indoor target temperature can be increased by 1 °C. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the heating operation, the predetermined indoor target temperature can be decreased by 1 °C.

[0208] That is, in the case of the first mode in which the discharge target temperature for the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 is directly set, compared with the second mode in which the indoor target temperature for the indoor temperature is set, the temperature set as the control reference can be adjusted more finely.

[0209] According to an embodiment, the maximum value of the discharge target temperature may be different from the maximum value for the indoor target temperature. For example, during the cooling operation, the maximum value of the discharge target temperature may be 20 °C, and the maximum value of the indoor target temperature may be 30 °C.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 13 again, the air conditioner 1 can determine in the S1340 operation whether the indoor temperature changes to a predetermined second reference or more. Here, the second reference can be applied to be different depending on whether the air conditioner 1 performs the cooling operation or the heating operation in consideration of the cooling and heating capabilities of the air conditioner 1, the air density due to temperature, and the like. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the cooling operation, it can be determined whether the indoor temperature drops by 1 °C or more. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is in the heating operation, it can be determined whether the indoor temperature rises by 2 °C or more.

[0211] When the indoor temperature changes to a predetermined second reference or more in the S1350 operation of the air conditioner 1, the power-saving operation can be interrupted and the normal operation can be executed.

[0212] Referring to FIG. 15, a door 1505 can be arranged on the surface constituting the indoor space 1500 where the indoor unit 10 is arranged. The indoor space 1500 can be cooled or heated by the air discharged after heat exchange in the indoor unit 10 while the door 1505 is closed.

[0213] When the door 1505 opens, the indoor space 1500 can communicate with another space 1510. For example, the other space 1510 can be either the outdoor or another indoor space. Here, when an air convection phenomenon occurs between the indoor space 1500 and the other space 1510 due to the temperature difference between them, the temperature of the indoor space 1500 can change to be above the first standard regardless of the operation of the air conditioner 1.

[0214] On the other hand, when the door 1505 closes again, the communication between the indoor space 1500 and the other space 1510 can be blocked. Here, the air heat-exchanged by the operation of the air conditioner 1 is discharged into the indoor space 1500, so that the temperature of the indoor space 1500 can change to be above the second standard.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 16, when the door 1505 opens at time to in a state where the air conditioner 1 is performing a cooling operation, the indoor temperature of the indoor space 1500 may rise to 1.5 °C or more, which is the first temperature (ΔT1), within 5 minutes regardless of the operation of the air conditioner 1. Here, the air conditioner 1 can execute a power-saving operation by determining that the door 1505 is open.

[0216] On the other hand, when the door 1505 closes at time tc, the temperature of the indoor space 1500 may drop by 1 °C or more, which is the third temperature (ΔT3), due to the operation of the air conditioner 1. Here, the air conditioner 1 can execute a normal operation by determining that the door 1505 is closed.

[0217] Referring to FIG. 17, when the door 1505 opens at time to while the air conditioner 1 is in the heating operation state, despite the operation of the air conditioner 1, the indoor temperature in the indoor space 1500 may drop to 2.5°C or more, which is the second temperature ΔT2, within 5 minutes. Here, the air conditioner 1 can execute a power-saving operation upon determining that the door 1505 has opened.

[0218] On the other hand, when the door 1505 closes at time tc, the temperature in the indoor space 1500 may rise by 2°C or more, which is the fourth temperature ΔT4, due to the operation of the air conditioner 1. Here, the air conditioner 1 can execute a normal operation upon determining that the door 1505 has closed.

[0219] Referring to FIG. 18, when the air conditioner 1 executes a power-saving operation, it can determine a first power consumption P1 that is smaller than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner 1 and a second power consumption P2 that is smaller than the first power consumption P1 by a predetermined power.

[0220] When the current power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is equal to or greater than the second power consumption P2 and less than or equal to the first power consumption P1 (1810), the air conditioner 1 can maintain the operating frequency of the compressor 351. When the current power consumption of the air conditioner 1 exceeds the first power consumption P1 (1820), the air conditioner 1 can lower the operating frequency of the compressor 351. When the current power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is less than the second power consumption P2 (1830), the air conditioner 1 can increase the operating frequency of the compressor 351.

[0221] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the air can be discharged so that the air heat-exchanged along the ceiling constituting the indoor space flows, heating and cooling for the entire indoor space can be constantly implemented.

[0222] Also, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the air can be discharged so that the air heat-exchanged toward a specific area of the indoor space flows, heating and cooling from a specific area of the indoor space to the entire indoor space can be maximally implemented.

[0223] Further, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether an indoor space communicates with other spaces based on a change in the indoor temperature.

[0224] Further, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, during the period when the indoor space communicates with other spaces, power-saving operation can be executed to reduce unnecessary power consumption.

[0225] Further, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the communication between the indoor space and other spaces is blocked, by executing normal operation, operation according to the user's request can be executed.

[0226] Further, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by variously executing power-saving operation according to the opening and closing of the main outlet by the main vane, power-saving operation optimized for a predetermined operation mode can be executed.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 18, an air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an indoor unit 10, an indoor temperature sensor that senses the indoor temperature of an indoor space 1500 in which the indoor unit 10 is disposed, and a control unit 370 that monitors the indoor temperature via the indoor temperature sensor. When the indoor temperature changes to a first reference or higher, the control unit 370 starts power-saving operation, and when the indoor temperature changes to a second reference or higher in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed, the power-saving operation can be interrupted.

[0228] Further, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the indoor temperature rises to a first temperature or higher during cooling operation or drops to a second temperature or higher during heating operation within a predetermined time, the control unit 370 can determine that the indoor temperature has changed to the first reference or higher.

[0229] Further, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first temperature may be less than the second temperature.

[0230] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the indoor temperature drops to or above a third temperature during cooling operation or rises to or above a fourth temperature during heating operation in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed, the control unit 370 can determine that the indoor temperature has changed to or above the second reference.

[0231] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the third temperature may be less than the fourth temperature.

[0232] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 further includes a compressor 351 that compresses refrigerant. When the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 exceeds a first power consumption in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed, the control unit 370 decreases the operating frequency of the compressor 351. When the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is less than a second power consumption, the control unit 370 increases the operating frequency of the compressor 351. The first power consumption is less than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner 1, and can exceed the second power consumption.

[0233] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the indoor unit 10 is a wall-mounted indoor unit 10 including a case 101 installed on a wall surface. The wall-mounted indoor unit 10 includes a main discharge port 48 that opens below the case 101, a sub-discharge port 36 that opens in front of the case 101, and a main vane 120 that opens and closes the main discharge port 48. When the operation mode is set to a first mode that does not use the main discharge port 48, the control unit 370 determines the rotation angle of the main vane 120 to be the minimum angle for closing the main discharge port 48 so that air is discharged through the sub-discharge port 36. When the operation mode is set to a second mode that uses the main discharge port 48, the control unit 370 can determine the rotation angle of the main vane 120 to be an angle corresponding to a predetermined direction so that air is discharged through the main discharge port 48 and the sub-discharge port 36.

[0234] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 370 executes the power-saving operation in a state where the operation mode is set to the first mode, the control unit 370 adjusts a first target temperature with respect to the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10, and when the control unit 370 executes the power-saving operation in a state where the operation mode is set to the second mode, the control unit 370 can adjust a second target temperature with respect to the indoor temperature.

[0235] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the operation mode is set to the first mode, the control unit 370 changes the first target temperature by a fifth temperature at a predetermined cycle, and when the operation mode is set to the second mode, the control unit 370 can change the second target temperature by a sixth temperature higher than the fifth temperature at the predetermined cycle.

[0236] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the maximum value of the first target temperature set in the power-saving operation may be different from the maximum value of the second target temperature.

[0237] On the other hand, an operation method of the air conditioner 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an operation of starting a power-saving operation when the indoor temperature of the indoor space 1500 where the indoor unit 10 is disposed, which is sensed by an indoor temperature sensor, changes to be equal to or higher than a first reference, and an operation of interrupting the power-saving operation when the indoor temperature changes to be equal to or higher than a second reference in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed.

[0238] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the operation of starting the power-saving operation includes an operation of determining that the indoor temperature has changed to be equal to or higher than the first reference when the indoor temperature rises to be equal to or higher than a first temperature during a cooling operation or drops to be equal to or higher than a second temperature during a heating operation within a predetermined time, and the operation of interrupting the power-saving operation may include an operation of determining that the indoor temperature has changed to be equal to or higher than the second reference when the indoor temperature drops to be equal to or higher than a third temperature during a cooling operation or rises to be equal to or higher than a fourth temperature during a heating operation in a state where the power-saving operation is being executed.

[0239] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first temperature may be less than the second temperature, and the third temperature may be less than the fourth temperature.

[0240] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the operation further includes an operation of performing the power-saving operation. The operation of performing the power-saving operation includes an operation of reducing the operating frequency of the compressor 351 when the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 exceeds a first power consumption, and an operation of increasing the operating frequency of the compressor 351 when the power consumption of the air conditioner 1 is less than a second power consumption. The first power consumption is less than the rated power consumption of the air conditioner 1 and can exceed the second power consumption.

[0241] Also, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the operation further includes an operation of performing the power-saving operation. The indoor unit 10 is a wall-mounted indoor unit 10 including a case 101 installed on a wall surface. The wall-mounted indoor unit 10 includes a main air outlet 48 opening downward of the case 101, a sub-air outlet 36 opening in front of the case 101, and a main vane 120 for opening and closing the main air outlet 48. The operation of performing the power-saving operation includes an operation of adjusting a first target temperature with respect to the temperature of the air discharged from the indoor unit 10 when the power-saving operation is performed in a state where the operation mode is set to a first mode that does not use the main air outlet 48, and an operation of adjusting a second target temperature with respect to the indoor temperature when the power-saving operation is performed in a state where the operation mode is set to a second mode that uses the main air outlet 48.

[0242] The accompanying drawings are only for facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the idea and technical scope of the present disclosure are included.

[0243] On the one hand, the operation method of the present disclosure can be embodied by code readable by a processor recorded on a recording medium readable by the processor. The recording medium readable by the processor includes all types of recording devices in which data readable by the processor is stored. Examples of the recording medium readable by the processor include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc., and also include those embodied in the form of a carrier wave such as transmission via the Internet. Further, the recording medium readable by the processor is distributed in a computer system connected by a network, and the code readable by the processor can be stored and executed in a distributed manner.

[0244] In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs without departing from the gist of the present disclosure claimed in the claims. Of course, such modified implementations should not be understood separately from the technical idea and prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An air conditioning device, Indoor unit; an indoor temperature sensor that detects the indoor temperature of the indoor space in which the indoor unit is located; and A control unit that monitors the indoor temperature via the indoor temperature sensor; The control unit is When the indoor temperature changes to a first standard or higher, a power saving operation is started; The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, when the indoor temperature changes to a second reference value or higher while the power saving operation is being performed, the power saving operation is stopped.

2. The control unit, within a predetermined time, When the indoor temperature rises to or exceeds a first temperature during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature falls to or exceeds a second temperature during heating operation, 2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the indoor temperature changes to equal to or greater than the first reference temperature.

3. 3. The air conditioner of claim 2, wherein the first temperature is less than the second temperature.

4. The control unit, in a state in which the power saving operation is performed, When the indoor temperature falls to a third temperature or higher during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature rises to a fourth temperature or higher during heating operation, 2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the indoor temperature changes to equal to or greater than the second reference temperature.

5. 5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, wherein the third temperature is less than the fourth temperature.

6. A compressor for compressing the refrigerant; The control unit, in a state in which the power saving operation is performed, When the power consumption of the air conditioner exceeds a first power consumption, the operating frequency of the compressor is reduced; When the power consumption of the air conditioner is less than a second power consumption, increasing the operating frequency of the compressor; The air conditioner according to claim 1 , wherein the first power consumption is less than a rated power consumption of the air conditioner and exceeds the second power consumption.

7. The indoor unit is a wall-mounted indoor unit having a case that is installed on a wall surface, The wall-mounted indoor unit is A main discharge port opening downward in the case; a sub outlet opening to the front of the case; A main vane that opens and closes the main discharge port, The control unit is When the operation mode is set to a first mode in which the main outlet is not used, a rotation angle of the main vane is determined as a minimum angle for closing the main outlet so that air is discharged through the sub outlet; 2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein when the operating mode is set to a second mode in which the main outlet is used, a rotation angle of the main vanes is determined to be an angle corresponding to a predetermined direction so that the air is discharged through the main outlet and the sub-outlet.

8. The control unit is When the power saving operation is performed with the operation mode set to the first mode, a first target temperature for the temperature of air discharged from the indoor unit is adjusted; The air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein, when the power saving operation is performed with the operation mode set to the second mode, a second target temperature for the indoor temperature is adjusted.

9. The control unit is When the operation mode is set to the first mode, the first target temperature is changed by a fifth temperature at a predetermined period, 9. The air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein when the operation mode is set to the second mode, the second target temperature is changed by a sixth temperature higher than the fifth temperature in the predetermined period.

10. The air conditioner according to claim 7 , wherein the maximum value of the first target temperature set in the power saving operation is different from the maximum value of the second target temperature.

11. 1. A method of operating an air conditioner, comprising: An operation of sensing the indoor temperature of the indoor space in which the indoor unit is placed by an indoor temperature sensor; When the indoor temperature changes to a first standard or higher, starting a power saving operation; and and an operation of interrupting the power-saving operation when the indoor temperature changes to a second reference value or higher while the power-saving operation is being performed.

12. The operation of starting the power saving operation is performed within a predetermined time. When the indoor temperature rises to or exceeds a first temperature during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature drops to or exceeds a second temperature during heating operation, the indoor temperature is determined to be greater than or equal to the first reference temperature; The operation of interrupting the power-saving operation is performed in a state in which the power-saving operation is performed.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: determining that the indoor temperature has changed to or above the second standard when the indoor temperature has dropped to or above a third temperature during cooling operation, or when the indoor temperature has risen to or above a fourth temperature during heating operation.

13. the first temperature is less than the second temperature; 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the third temperature is less than the fourth temperature.

14. The method further includes an operation of executing the power saving operation, The operation of performing the power saving operation includes: When the power consumption of the air conditioner exceeds a first power consumption, an operation of reducing an operating frequency of the compressor is performed. When the power consumption of the air conditioner is less than a second power consumption, an operation of increasing an operating frequency of the compressor is included.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first power consumption is less than a rated power consumption of the air conditioner and exceeds the second power consumption.

15. An operation of executing the power saving operation; The indoor unit is a wall-mounted indoor unit including a case that is installed on a wall surface, The wall-mounted indoor unit is A main discharge port opening downward in the case; a sub outlet opening to the front of the case; a main vane that opens and closes the main discharge port, The operation of performing the power saving operation includes: When the power saving operation is performed in a state where the operation mode is set to a first mode in which the main outlet is not used, an operation of adjusting a first target temperature for the temperature of air discharged from the indoor unit; and adjusting a second target temperature for the indoor temperature when the power saving operation is performed with the operation mode set to a second mode using the main outlet.

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