Air conditioner

Abstract

An air conditioner is disclosed. The air conditioner according to one aspect of the present invention may comprise: a housing forming an internal space; a blowing member accommodated in the internal space to provide blowing force to the air; an internal conductive part for providing power or an electrical signal to the blowing member; and an electronic module retractably coupled to the housing, wherein the housing includes an accommodating part having at least one side open to the outside so as to accommodate the electronic module, the electronic module is moved from the outside through the one side in a sliding manner and is detached from and attached to the accommodating part, and when the electronic module is accommodated in the accommodating part, the electronic module is electrically connected to the internal conductive part.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an air conditioner having a structure that allows for easy self-maintenance.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The air conditioner refers to a device capable of improving the quality of air and providing the air to a user. The air conditioner can be provided in any form capable of providing air of a desired form by the user, such as an air cleaner, an air conditioner, a heater. Recently, as the time for the user to stay in an indoor space is increased due to COVID-19, the air conditioner can be provided in various forms to provide the air processed in various forms to the user.

[0003] Meanwhile, in a process of performing operations to improve air quality, the air conditioner inevitably generates by-products. For example, when the air conditioner is provided as an air cleaner, dust and other particles separated from the inflowing air remain inside the air conditioner. If the retention of separated dust and the like continues, not only can the air conditioning performance deteriorate, but there is also air quality satisfactory to the user cannot be provided.

[0004] Therefore, when the air conditioner is provided as an air cleaner, a configuration configured to improve the air quality, the air conditioner needs to replacement or maintenance a filter or the like. Accordingly, a configuration that requires frequent replacement and maintenance such as the filter or the like is provided to be detachable so that the user can perform the replacement and maintenance on their own.

[0005] Meanwhile, a typical air conditioner includes a configuration for introducing air and discharging it to the outside and an electrical configuration for controlling the configuration. In general, the electrical configuration is fixedly coupled with a main body during manufacturing. Accordingly, when the electrical configuration malfunctions, it is difficult for the user to perform the replacement and maintenance on their own.

[0006] Therefore, currently available air conditioners allow the user to separate and replace only some configurations, while other configurations cannot be separated or replaced, making self-maintenance difficult. Accordingly, technologies have been proposed to allow other configurations provided in the air conditioner to be easily separated and replaced as well.

[0007] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2437900 discloses a detection module and an air cleaner including the same. Specifically, it discloses the air cleaner in which the detection module for detecting information on an external environment can be provided at an arbitrary position. The prior document discloses an air cleaner in which the detection module can be detachably coupled with various positions of the main body of the air cleaner.

[0008] However, the detection module and the air cleaner including the same disclosed in the prior document provide only a solution for providing the detection module to be detachable. That is, the prior document only provides a solution for making the detection module itself detachable, and fails to provide a solution for also making detachable the configuration for controlling other configurations of the air cleaner based on information sensed by the detection module.

[0009] In addition, the detection module and the air cleaner including the same disclosed in the prior document merely disclose that the detection module can be detachably coupled with the main body of the air purifier, but fail to provide a specific structure for such coupling. Furthermore, the detection module and the air cleaner including the same disclosed in the prior document do not disclose any specific means for electrically connecting the detachably coupled detection module to other configurations.

[0010] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-0908276 discloses an air cleaner for a vehicle. Specifically, it discloses the vehicle air purifier in which a detection means can be replaced or repaired without disassembling a product.

[0011] However, the vehicle air purifier disclosed in the prior document merely provides a solution for separating only the sensing means by installing it on the inlet side exposed to the outside. That is, the vehicle air purifier disclosed in the prior document does not disclose a structure in which the sensing means is detachably coupled, but rather discloses only a solution for separating the sensing means from among the assembled configurations.

[0012] Therefore, the prior document also fails to provide a solution for detachably providing the detection means or other configurations, as well as for establishing an electrical connection state between the detachably provided configurations and the fixedly coupled configurations.

[0013] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2437900 (2022.09.01)

[0014] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-0908276 (2009.07.20)DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0015] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner having a structure that allows for easy self-maintenance.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner having a structure that allows for easy self-maintenance of a configuration configured to control other configurations.

[0017] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner having a structure that allows for easy self-maintenance on their own without a separate tool.

[0018] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner having a structure that can prevent arbitrary swinging of a detachable configuration.

[0019] An additional another object of the present disclosure is to provide an air conditioner having a structure capable of stably maintaining an electrical connection state between a detachably provided configuration and another configuration.

[0020] The objects of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned objects, and other objects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.Technical Solution

[0021] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided, which includes a housing configured to form an internal space; an air blower configured to be accommodated in the internal space and provide a blowing force to an air; an inner communicator configured to provide an electrical power or electrical signal to the air blower; and an electronic module configured to retractably coupled with the housing, wherein the housing includes an accommodating section having at least one side open to the outside to accommodate the electronic module, the electronic module is moved from the outside through the one side in a sliding manner and is detached from and attached to the accommodating section, and when the electronic module is accommodated in the accommodating section, the electronic module is electrically connected to the inner communicator.

[0022] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the housing includes an outer housing configured to form a part of an outer shape thereof, and an inner housing configured to be accommodated in the outer housing and support the air blower, wherein the outer housing and the inner housing are at least partially spaced apart from each other, and an accommodating section is formed in a space defined between the outer housing and the inner housing.

[0023] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the electronic module includes a substrate module connected to the inner communicator, and the substrate module includes a substrate frame at least partially exposed through the one side when accommodated in the accommodating section; and a substrate coupled with the substrate frame and communicably connected to the inner communicator.

[0024] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the inner communicator includes an inner terminal configured to be elastically deformable, and the substrate include a substrate terminal configured to be in communicable contact with the inner terminal by pressing the inner terminal when accommodated in the accommodating section.

[0025] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the substrate is configured such that an extension length in one direction is longer than an extension length in the other direction, and a plurality of the inner terminals and a plurality of the substrate terminals are provided, respectively, and disposed in parallel and spaced apart from each other along the one direction.

[0026] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the housing includes an actuator configured to be exposed to the outside and receive a control signal, and the substrate module includes a second substrate communicably coupled with the actuator.

[0027] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the housing includes an indicator configured to operate by receiving an external force applied to the actuator and be communicably coupled with the second substrate.

[0028] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the indicator includes a light emitter configured to turn on and off in response to contact with the actuator by the external force, and the second substrate includes a switch configured to be communicably connected to the light emitter and receive the control signal applied by the external force.

[0029] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the substrate frame includes a first substrate frame configured to be exposed to the outside of the accommodating section of the outer housing; and a second substrate frame accommodated in the accommodating section and respectively coupled with the first substrate frame and the substrate.

[0030] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the second substrate frame includes a first plate configured to extend in one direction; and a second plate configured to extend in the one direction and be positioned to be spaced apart from the first plate in a thickness direction.

[0031] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the substrate module includes a second substrate configured to be communicably connected to the substrate and be coupled with the first and second substrate frames, and the second substrate is accommodated in a substrate-accommodating space defined between the first plate and the second plate.

[0032] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the second substrate frame includes a first support rib configured to protrude from the first plate toward the second plate and support the second substrate accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space at one side in a height direction; and a second support rib configured to protrude from the second plate toward the first plate and support the second substrate accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space at the other side in the height direction.

[0033] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the outer housing includes an outer support rib configured to extend toward the inner housing and support the accommodated electronic module at one side in a height direction, and the inner housing includes an inner support rib configured to extend toward the outer housing and support the accommodated electronic module at the other side in the height direction.

[0034] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the outer housing includes an outer coupler configured to be detachably coupled with the substrate module, and the substrate module includes a substrate coupler configured to be positioned on one side facing the outer coupler and be detachably coupled with the outer coupler.

[0035] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the outer coupler and the substrate coupler are each provided with a magnet, and the outer housing and the substrate module are coupled with each other by a magnetic attraction.

[0036] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein a part of the substrate frame exposed to the outside of the space of the outer housing is configured to be asymmetrical with one side and the other side opposite to the one side along its extension direction.

[0037] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the substrate frame includes a grip protrusion configured such a user may grip it when the substrate frame is detached from the accommodating section; and an identification groove configured to guide a mounting direction when the substrate frame is mounted to the accommodating section.

[0038] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the electronic module includes a sensor module configured to be communicably connected to the inner communicator and generate a detection information on an external environment.

[0039] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the accommodating section includes a sensor-accommodating section having a sensor-accommodating space formed therein and communicated with the outside through an opening.

[0040] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the sensor module includes a sensor configured to generate the detection information; and a sensor housing having a sensor housing space formed therein to accommodate the sensor, and inserted into and supported by the sensor-accommodating section.

[0041] In addition, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the sensor-accommodating section includes a sensor terminal configured to elastically deforms in a direction toward the sensor-accommodating space; and a sensor connector configured to be respectively communicably connected to the sensor terminal and the inner communicator.

[0042] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the sensor-accommodating section includes a sensor coupler configured to be positioned in the sensor-accommodating space and be detachably coupled with the sensor module, and the sensor module includes a coupler configured to be positioned on one side facing the sensor coupler and be detachably coupled with the sensor coupler.

[0043] In this case, the air conditioner may be provided wherein the sensor-accommodating section includes a sensor support rib configured to protrude from an inner surface surrounding the sensor-accommodating space in an outer circumferential direction and support the accommodated sensor housing from an outer side.Advantageous Effects

[0044] According to the above configuration, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may allow for easier self-maintenance.

[0045] The air conditioner includes various configurations for drawing in and treating external air and then releasing it to the outside. In the embodiment, the air conditioner may perform an air cleaning function by including a filter member. The filter is supported by an outer cover and an inner cover. The outer cover and the inner cover are detachably connected to an outer housing forming its outer shape.

[0046] In addition, an air blower providing a transfer force for introducing and discharging external air is rotatably coupled with the inner housing and accommodated in the outer housing. The air blower may be exposed to the outside by the blower insertion opening provided in the outer housing. The air blower may be detachably coupled with the inner housing, and may be separated from the inner housing and retracted outward.

[0047] Therefore, the configuration for performing the function of the air conditioner may be easily detached and maintained.

[0048] In addition, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may facilitate self-maintenance of a configuration for controlling another configuration.

[0049] An inner housing for forming a passage of air is accommodated inside the outer housing. The inner housing is spaced apart from the outer housing, and a predetermined space is formed between the inner housing and the outer housing. A second electronic module may be retractably accommodated in the space. The accommodated second electronic module is electrically connected to the outer communicator and the inner communicator, respectively.

[0050] The inner housing includes a sensor-accommodating section. The sensor-accommodating section is disposed to overlap the sensor insertion opening formed through the outer housing. A first electronic module may be retractably accommodated in the sensor-accommodating section through the sensor insertion opening. The first electronic module generates detection information on an external environment the air conditioner. The first electronic module is electrically connected to the second electronic module through the inner communicator.

[0051] Therefore, a configuration that is electrically connected to each other for controlling each configuration of the air conditioner may also be provided to be detachable. Accordingly, the first and second electronic modules may also be detached from the air conditioner and easily self-managed.

[0052] In addition, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be easily self-managed their own without a separate tool.

[0053] In the embodiment, the outer cover forming the outer shape and the inner cover at least partially accommodated in the outer cover are detachably connected to the outer housing. The outer cover may be separated from the outer housing by an external force without a separate tool.

[0054] In addition, when the outer cover is separated from the outer housing, the second electronic module accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section is exposed to the outside. The second electronic module may be retracted from the substrate module-accommodating section by an external force in a direction opposite to the outer housing.

[0055] Meanwhile, the first electronic module generating the detection information on the external environment is detachably coupled with the outer housing and the inner housing, and some of the configurations are exposed to the outside. When an external force in a direction opposite to the outer housing or the inner housing is applied, the first electronic module may be separated and retracted from the outer housing and the inner housing.

[0056] Therefore, the first and second electronic modules may be retracted from the outer housing or the inner housing without a separate tool.

[0057] In addition, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may prevent arbitrary swinging of a configuration detachably provided.

[0058] A support rib is provided on each side of the outer housing and the inner housing facing the substrate module-accommodating section. The support rib supports the second electronic module accommodated in the substrate module accommodating section in the height direction. The substrate module-accommodating section extends by the extension length of the second electronic module, and each side of the second electronic module in the width direction is supported by the inner surface of the outer housing. Furthermore, each side of the second electronic module in the longitudinal direction is supported by the outer cover or the inner cover and the outer housing.

[0059] A sensor support rib is provided on each side of the inner housing configuration surrounding a sensor-accommodating space. The sensor support rib supports the outer side of the first electronic module accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space in the outer circumferential direction. The inner side of the first electronic module is supported by the inner side of the sensor housing, and the outer side of the first electronic module is supported by the sensor cover.

[0060] Therefore, arbitrary swinging of the first and second electronic modules may be prevented.

[0061] In addition, the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may stably maintain electrical connection states of the other configuration with the detachably provided configuration.

[0062] As described above, the first electronic module and the second electronic module detachably coupled with the outer housing and the inner housing are supported on each side by the support rib, the outer housing, and the inner housing.

[0063] Therefore, arbitrary swinging of the coupled first electronic module and second electronic module is prevented, and the electrical connection states between the first electronic module and the second electronic module and the other configuration may be stably maintained.

[0064] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described effects, and it should be understood that the effects include all effects that can be inferred from the configurations of the invention described in the detailed description or the claims of the present disclosure.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0065] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration of the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0067] FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views illustrating an outer cover provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an inner cover provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0069] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an outer frame provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an outer frame provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 6.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an indicator provided in the outer frame of FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0072] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an air blower provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0073] FIGS. 10 and 11 are perspective views illustrating an inner frame provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a plan view illustrating the inner frame of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0075] FIG. 13 is a part enlarged view (a) and (b) of parts A and B of the inner frame of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0076] FIG. 14 is a side view illustrating the inner frame of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0077] FIGS. 15 and 16 are exploded perspective views illustrating a sensor module provided in the air cleaner ofFIG. 1.

[0078] FIG. 17 is a side view illustrating a sensor frame provided in the sensor module of FIGS. 15 and 16.

[0079] FIGS. 18 and 19 are perspective views illustrating a substrate module provided in the air cleaner of FIG. 1.

[0080] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the substrate module of FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0081] FIGS. 21 and 22 are use state views illustrating a process of separating the substrate module from the air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIGS. 23 and 24 are use state views illustrating a process of separating the sensor module from the air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 25 is a front cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the substrate module of FIGS. 18 and 19 are supported in a vertical direction.

[0084] FIG. 26 is a front cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the substrate module of FIGS. 18 and 19 are communicably connected to the inner frame.

[0085] FIG. 27 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the sensor modules of FIGS. 15 and 16 are communicably connected to the inner frame.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0086] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present disclosure, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the entire specification.

[0087] The words and terms used in this specification and the claims are not interpreted as limited to ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of the present disclosure according to the principle in which the inventor can define the terms and concepts in order to best explain their invention.

[0088] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure and do not all represent the technical idea of the present disclosure, so the corresponding configurations may be various equivalents and modifications to replace them at the time of filing the present disclosure.

[0089] In the following description, in order to clarify the features of the present disclosure, some components may be omitted.

[0090] The term “communication” used in the following description means that one or more members are connected to each other in fluid communication. In an embodiment, the communication may be formed by a member such as a pipe, a pipe, or a pipe. In the following description, communication may be used in the same sense that one or more members are “fluidly connected” to each other.

[0091] The term “electrical connection” used in the following description means that one or more members are connected to each other to transfer a current or electric signal. In an embodiment, the electrical connection may be formed in the form of a wire by a wire member or wireless such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and RFID. In an embodiment, the electrical connection may include the meaning of “communication”.

[0092] The term “fluid” as used in the following description refers to any type of material that flows by external forces and may deform shape or volume, etc. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

[0093] The term “air conditioner” used in the following description means any type of device capable of treating air introduced from the outside in various forms and providing the air to the outside again. In an embodiment, the air conditioner may be provided as an air cleaner, an air conditioner, a heating device, or the like.

[0094] The terms “upper side”, “lower side”, “left side”, “right side”, “front side”, and “rear side” used in the following description will be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 2, an air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured in any form capable of treating air in various ways and supplying it to the outside. In an embodiment, the air conditioner 10 may be configured as an air cleaner. In the embodiment, the air conditioner 10 may include any configuration for filtering air such as a filter.

[0096] In addition, the air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may have each configuration detachably coupled with one another. In particular, as will be described later, the air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be detachably provided with the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 electrically connected to each other.

[0097] Therefore, when replacement or maintenance of the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 is required, the user may detach the first electronic module 600 or the second electronic module 700 by itself to perform replacement or the like. Accordingly, the air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may easily perform self-maintenance by the user.

[0098] The air conditioner 10 may be any shape that may draw in external air and process it and provide it back to the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the air conditioner 10 has a quadrangular column shape in which a length in a front-rear direction is shorter than a width in a left-right direction and a height in up-down direction.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the air conditioner 10 includes an outer cover 100, an inner cover 200, an outer housing 300, an air blower 400, an inner housing 500, a first electronic module 600, and a second electronic module 700.

[0100] The outer cover 100 forms a part of the outer shape of the air conditioner 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover 100 forms one side, that is, a front side, in a longitudinal direction of the air conditioner 10.

[0101] The outer cover 100 may provide communication between the exterior and interior of the air conditioner 10. The external air may be introduced into the air conditioner 10 through the outer cover 100. To this end, the outer cover 100 includes an inlet communication hole 111 to be described later.

[0102] The outer cover 100 is coupled with the inner cover 200. Specifically, the outer cover 100 is detachably coupled with the filter receptacle 220 with the filter support 210 interposed therebetween. The outer cover 100 is coupled with the inner housing 500 through the inner cover 200.

[0103] The outer cover 100 is coupled with the outer housing 300. Specifically, the outer cover 100 covers the inner cover 200 and is detachably coupled with the outer housing 300. The outer cover 100 covers the outer housing space 320 formed inside the outer housing 300 and is coupled with the outer housing 300.

[0104] The outer cover 100 is coupled with the inner housing 500. Specifically, the outer cover 100 is coupled with the edge of the inner housing 500 accommodated in the outer housing space 320 in the width direction.

[0105] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 4, the outer cover 100 includes an outer cover body 110, an outer cover space 120, an outer cover grip protrusion 130, an outer cover fitting protrusion 140, and an outer cover guide protrusion 150.

[0106] The outer cover body 110 forms the body of the outer cover 100. The outer cover body 110 covers the inner cover 200 and the outer housing space 320 and is coupled with the outer housing 300.

[0107] The outer cover body 110 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the inner cover 200 and the outer housing 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover body 110 is formed in a rectangular plate shape having a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-rear direction.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover body 110 includes an inlet communication hole 111.

[0109] The inlet communication hole 111 communicates the exterior with the interior of the air conditioner 10. The external air may be introduced into the air conditioner 10 through the inlet communication hole 111. Therefore, the inlet communication hole 111 may be said to form an external air inflow passage.

[0110] The inlet communication hole 111 is configured to penetrate through the interior of the outer cover body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet communication hole 111 is configured to penetrate through the outer cover body 110 in the thickness direction, that is, the front-rear direction.

[0111] A plurality of inlet communication holes 111 may be provided. The plurality of inlet communication holes 111 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other to communicate the outside with the inside of the air conditioner 10 at various positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet communication holes 111 are disposed in parallel to each other in the left-right direction and the up-down direction.

[0112] The outer cover space 120 is a space formed inside the outer cover 100. The outer cover space 120 is defined by being partially surrounded by the outer cover body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover space 120 is defined by being surrounded by the outer cover body 110 on its front side.

[0113] The outer cover space 120 accommodates the inner cover 200. The inner cover 200 accommodated in the outer cover space 120 is supported by the outer cover body 110 on its front side. Each edge of the inner cover 200 in the width direction, that is, the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, are supported by a pair of ribs (not labeled) extending rearward from the left and right edges of the outer cover body 110.

[0114] Each edge of the inner cover 200 in the height direction, that is, the upper and lower sides in the illustrated embodiment, are supported by another pair of ribs (not labeled) extending rearward from the upper and lower edges of the outer cover body 110.

[0115] The outer cover grip protrusion 130 is a part gripped by the user. The outer cover grip protrusion 130 is continuous with the outer cover body 110. The outer cover grip protrusion 130 is configured to protrude outward from the outer cover body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover grip protrusion 130 protrudes outward from the outer cover body 110 in the width direction, that is, to the left and right sides.

[0116] Therefore, the user may easily separate the outer cover 100 from the outer housing 300 by gripping the outer cover grip protrusion 130 and applying a force toward the front side.

[0117] A plurality of outer cover grip protrusions 130 may be provided. The plurality of outer cover grip protrusions 130 may be disposed at each edge in the width direction of the outer cover body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of outer cover grip protrusions 130 are provided, and are respectively located at the upper left edge and the upper right edge of the outer cover body 110.

[0118] The outer cover fitting protrusion 140 is a part where the outer cover 100 is coupled with the outer housing 300. The outer cover fitting protrusion 140 protrudes from the inner surface of the outer cover body 110 toward the outer housing 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover fitting protrusion 140 is positioned on the inner surface of the pair of ribs (not labeled) and the other pair of ribs (not labeled) and is configured to protrude toward the rear side.

[0119] At this time, the outer cover fitting protrusion 140 extending from the inner surface of the other pair of ribs (not labeled) may include at least one bent portion and may be snap-fitted with the fitting protrusion (not labeled) formed on the inner surface of the outer housing body 310.

[0120] A plurality of outer cover fitting protrusions 140 may be provided. The plurality of outer cover fitting protrusions 140 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other and may be coupled with the outer housing body 310, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover fitting protrusions 140 are configured such that a pair of outer cover fitting protrusions 140 are positioned on each of the pair of ribs (not labeled), and a pair of outer cover fitting protrusions 140 are positioned on only the lower ribs of the other pair of ribs (not labeled).

[0121] The outer cover guide protrusion 150 is a part coupled with the inner housing 500. The outer cover guide protrusion 150 extends from the inner surface of the pair of ribs (not labeled) toward the inner housing 500, that is, toward the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The outer cover guide protrusion 150 is inserted into and coupled with a groove (not labeled) which is recessed at the outer circumference of the inner housing body 510.

[0122] A plurality of outer cover guide protrusions 150 may be provided. The plurality of outer cover guide protrusions 150 may be disposed at different positions and may be inserted into a groove (not labeled) that is recessed at the outer circumference of the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of outer cover guide protrusions 150 are provided and coupled with the pair of ribs (not labeled).

[0123] Therefore, the outer cover 100 may be detachably coupled with the inner cover 200, the outer housing 300, and the inner housing 500 at a plurality of positions, respectively.

[0124] The inner cover 200 is accommodated inside the air conditioner 10. The inner cover 200 may support any configuration for processing the external air introduced through the inlet communication hole 111. In an embodiment, the inner cover 200 may support a filter (not illustrated) for purifying air.

[0125] The inner cover 200 is coupled with the outer cover 100. The inner cover 200 is at least partially accommodated in the outer cover space 120 and is supported by the outer cover body 110 and the pair of ribs (not labeled) and the other pair of ribs (not labeled).

[0126] The inner cover 200 is coupled with the inner housing 500. The inner cover 200 is at least partially accommodated in the inner housing space 520 and is detachably coupled with an inner surface of the inner housing body 510.

[0127] The inner cover 200 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer cover 100 and the inner housing 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner cover 200 has a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-rear direction.

[0128] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the inner cover 200 includes a filter support 210 and a filter receptacle 220.

[0129] The filter support 210 supports the arbitrary configuration on one side. The filter support 210 is detachably coupled with the filter receptacle 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter support 210 supports the front side of any of the arbitrary configuration.

[0130] The filter support 210 is positioned adjacent to the outer cover 100. The filter support 210 may be at least partially accommodated in the outer cover space 120 and supported by the outer cover body 110.

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter support 210 includes a support communication hole 211.

[0132] The support communication hole 211 forms a space through which the exterior air introduced through the inlet communication hole 111 passes. The support communication hole 211 communicates with the inlet communication hole 111. The support communication hole 211 is configured to penetrate through the filter support 210.

[0133] The support communication hole 211 communicates with the filter-accommodating space 221. The external air that passes through the support communication hole 211 may pass through the arbitrary configuration, for example, the filter, accommodated in the filter-accommodating space 221.

[0134] A plurality of support communication holes 211 may be provided. The plurality of support communication holes 211 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction and the height direction of the filter support 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of support communication holes 211 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction and the up-down direction.

[0135] The filter receptacle 220 receives the arbitrary configuration. The filter receptacle (220) supports the arbitrary configuration at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter receptacle 220 supports the arbitrary configuration in the outer circumferential direction. That is, the filter receptacle 220 supports the upper side, lower side, left side, and right side of the arbitrary configuration.

[0136] The filter receptacle 220 is coupled with the filter support 210. In an embodiment, the filter receptacle 220 may be detachably coupled with the filter support 210.

[0137] The filter receptacle 220 is coupled with the inner housing 500. Specifically, the filter receptacle 220 is accommodated in the inner housing space 520, and one side in the height direction is detachably coupled with the first inner surface 511. In an embodiment, the filter receptacle 220 may be snap-fitted with the inner housing 500.

[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter receptacle 220 includes a filter-accommodating space 221, an inner cover fitting protrusion 222, and an inner cover support protrusion 223.

[0139] The filter-accommodating space 221 is a space formed inside the filter receptacle 220. The filter-accommodating space 221 accommodates the arbitrary configuration. The filter-accommodating space 221 is defined by being partially surrounded by the filter receptacle 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer circumferential direction of the filter-accommodating space 221, that is, the upper side, the lower side, the left side, and the right side, is surrounded by the filter receptacle 220.

[0140] The filter-accommodating space 221 communicates with the inlet communication hole 111 and the support communication hole 211. The external air passing through the inlet communication hole 111 and the support communication hole 211 may be introduced into the arbitrary configuration accommodated in the filter-accommodating space 221.

[0141] The filter-accommodating space 221 communicates with the outer housing space 320 and the inner housing space 520. The transfer force applied by the air blower 400 accommodated in the outer housing space 320 may be transferred to the filter-accommodating space 221 through the inner housing space 520.

[0142] Accordingly, the external air introduced into the filter-accommodating space 221 may be treated in various ways and discharged to the outside through the blower passage 540 (that is, communicating with the inner housing space 520).

[0143] The filter-accommodating space 221 may be any shape capable of accommodating the arbitrary configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter-accommodating space 221 has a rectangular column shape having a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a length in the front-rear direction.

[0144] The inner cover fitting protrusion 222 is a part where the inner cover 200 is coupled with the inner housing 500. The inner cover fitting protrusion 222 is located at one edge in the height direction of the filter receptacle 220, that is, at an upper edge in the illustrated embodiment. The inner cover fitting protrusion 222 is configured to protrude outward from the one edge. The inner cover fitting protrusion 222 is detachably coupled with the first inner surface 511 of the inner housing 500.

[0145] A plurality of inner cover fitting protrusions 222 may be provided. The plurality of inner cover fitting protrusions 222 may be coupled with the first inner surface 511 at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of inner cover fitting protrusions 222 are provided to be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the filter receptacle 220, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0146] The inner cover support protrusion 223 supports the arbitrary configuration accommodated in the filter-accommodating space 221. The inner cover support protrusion 223 is configured to protrude inwardly from the inner circumferential surface of the filter receptacle 220, and support the outer circumference of the arbitrary configuration.

[0147] A plurality of inner cover support protrusions 223 may be provided. The plurality of inner cover support protrusions 223 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along an inner circumferential surface of the filter receptacle 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner cover support protrusion 223 is formed one at each edge of the filter receptacle 220, one at an inner circumferential surface of the upper side, one at an inner circumferential surface of the lower side, and one pair at each of the inner circumferential surfaces of the left and right sides.

[0148] The outer housing 300 forms another part of the outer shape of the air conditioner 10. The outer housing 300 forms the other side in the longitudinal direction of the air conditioner 10, that is, the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0149] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the outer cover 100. Specifically, the outer housing 300 is detachably coupled with the outer cover 100 on one side facing the outer cover 100, that is, on the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0150] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the inner cover 200. Specifically, the outer housing 300 at least partially accommodates the inner cover 200 coupled with the inner housing 500.

[0151] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the air blower 400. The outer housing 300 accommodates and rotatably supports the air blower 400.

[0152] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the inner housing 500. The outer housing 300 accommodates the inner housing 500 and is disposed at least partially spaced apart from the inner housing 500 to form a space therebetween. As will be described later, the substrate module-accommodating section S may be defined by the space.

[0153] In an embodiment, the outer housing 300 may be integrally formed with the inner housing 500. In the embodiment as well, the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500 may be at least partially disposed to form a space therebetween in which the second electronic module 700 may be retractably accommodated.

[0154] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the first electronic module 600. The outer housing 300 is detachably coupled with the first electronic module 600. The first electronic module 600 may be electrically connected to electrical configurations provided in the outer housing 300, that is, to be described later, an actuator 350, an indicator 380, and an outer communicator 390. In the illustrated embodiment, the first electronic module 600 is detachably coupled with one side of the outer housing 300 in the width direction, that is, with the right side.

[0155] The outer housing 300 is coupled with the second electronic module 700. The outer housing 300 is detachably coupled with the second electronic module 700. The second electronic module 700 may be electrically connected to electrical configurations provided in the outer housing 300, that is, to be described later, the actuator 350, the indicator 380, and the outer communicator 390. In addition, the second electronic module 700 may be electrically connected to the first electronic module 600.

[0156] In the illustrated embodiment, the second electronic module 700 is detachably coupled with one side of the outer housing 300 in the longitudinal direction, that is, with the front side. The second electronic module 700 is retractably accommodated in the space, that is, a space formed by separating the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500.

[0157] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the outer housing 300 includes an outer housing body 310, an outer housing space 320, a blower insertion opening 330, an outlet 340, an actuator 350, a sensor insertion opening 360, an outer coupler 370, an indicator 380, and an outer communicator 390.

[0158] The outer housing body 310 forms the outer shape of the outer housing 300. An outer housing space 320 is formed inside the outer housing body 310 to accommodate the air blower 400 and the inner housing 500. Also, the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 may be detachably coupled with the outer housing body 310.

[0159] The outer housing body 310 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the air conditioner 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing body 310 has a rectangular column shape having a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a length in the front-rear direction.

[0160] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing body 310 includes a first outer surface 311, a second outer surface 312, and an outer support rib 313.

[0161] The first outer surface 311 forms one surface of the outer housing body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the first outer surface 311 forms an upper side surface of the outer housing body 310. Accordingly, the first outer surface 311 may be defined as one surface in the height direction of the outer housing body 310.

[0162] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 350 is positioned biased toward one side of the first outer surface 311 in the width direction, that is, to the left side. The air blower 400 is positioned on one side of the first outer surface 311 in the longitudinal direction, that is, on the rear side of the illustrated embodiment.

[0163] The first outer surface 311 surrounds the outer housing space 320 from one side. In the illustrated embodiment, the first outer surface 311 surrounds the outer housing space 320 from an upper side. An outer support rib 313 is formed on one side of each side of the first outer surface 311 facing the outer housing space 320, that is, on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0164] In addition, the outer coupler 370, the indicator 380, and the outer communicator 390 are coupled with the one side of the first outer surface 311, that is, with the lower side.

[0165] The first outer surface 311 is continuous with the second outer surface 312.

[0166] The second outer surface 312 forms the other surface of the outer housing body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the second outer surface 312 forms the right surface of the outer housing body 310. Accordingly, the second outer surface 312 may be defined as one surface in the width direction of the outer housing body 310.

[0167] The sensor insertion opening 360 is configured to be biased toward one side of the second outer surface 312 in the height direction, that is, toward the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0168] The second outer surface 312 surrounds the outer housing space 320 from the other side. In the illustrated embodiment, the second outer surface 312 surrounds the outer housing space 320 from a right side. A plurality of protrusions (not labeled) detachably coupled with the outer cover fitting protrusion 140 are formed on one side of each side of the second outer surface 312 facing the outer housing space 320, that is, on the left side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0169] The outer support rib 313 supports the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S defined as a part of the space formed by separating the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500. The outer support rib 313 is configured to support the second electronic module 700 in the height direction, that is, in the up-down direction.

[0170] By the outer support rib 313, the second electronic module 700 may be prevented from swing in the up-down direction. Accordingly, the contact and electrical connection states of the inner communicator 550 provided in the inner housing 500 and the second electronic module 700 may be stably maintained.

[0171] The outer support rib 313 is configured to protrude toward the outer housing space 320 from one side of the surface of the first outer surface 311 facing the outer housing space 320, that is, from the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. The outer support rib 313 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first outer surface 311, that is, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0172] A plurality of outer support ribs 313 may be provided. The plurality of outer support ribs 313 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first outer surface 311, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The plurality of outer support ribs 313 are configured to support the second electronic module 700 from the upper side at different positions.

[0173] The outer housing space 320 is a space formed inside the outer housing body 310. The outer housing space 320 is partially surrounded by the surface of the outer housing body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer housing space 320 is surrounded on the left, right, upper, lower, and rear sides by the surfaces of the outer housing body 310.

[0174] The front side of the outer housing space 320 is configured open. The inner cover 200, the inner housing 500, and the second electronic module 700 may be retractably accommodated in the outer housing space 320 through the front side.

[0175] The outer housing space 320 communicates with the outside. As described above, the outer housing space 320 communicates with the outside through its front side. The external air may pass through the outer cover 100 and the inner cover 200 in sequence and may be introduced into the inner housing 500 accommodated in the outer housing space 320.

[0176] In addition, the outer housing space 320 is communicated with the outside by the sensor insertion opening 360. The first electronic module 600 may be retractably accommodated in the outer housing space 320 through the sensor insertion opening 360.

[0177] The outer housing space 320 accommodates the air blower 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the air blower 400 may be coupled with the blower coupler 530 of the inner housing 500 and accommodated in the outer housing space 320. In this case, the blower insertion opening 330 is provided on the rear side of the surface of the outer housing body 310, so that the air blower 400 may be easily detached.

[0178] The blower insertion opening 330 forms a passage through which the air blower 400 is accommodated in the outer housing space 320 or retracted from it. The blower insertion opening 330 is configured to penetrate through one surface of the outer housing body 310 in the longitudinal direction, that is, a rear side surface in the illustrated embodiment. The blower insertion opening 330 communicates outer housing space 320 with the outside, respectively.

[0179] The blower insertion opening 330 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the air blower 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower insert 330 is configured as a space having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the front-rear direction.

[0180] In the illustrated embodiment, the blower insertion opening 330 includes a blower cover 331.

[0181] The blower cover 331 is detachably coupled with the one surface of the outer housing body 310, that is, with the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The blower cover 331 closes the blower insertion opening 330 and is coupled with the one surface of the outer housing body 310.

[0182] The blower cover 331 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the air blower 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower cover 331 is configured as a space having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the front-rear direction. At this time, the blower cover 331 may have a cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area of the blower insertion opening 330.

[0183] In addition, an identification protrusion 331a for coupling a fastener (not illustrated) may be provided on the outer circumference of the blower cover 331. The fastener (not illustrated) may be penetrated through the identification protrusion 331a and coupled with the one surface of the outer housing body 310.

[0184] As will be described later, the air blower 400 is detachably coupled with the inner housing 500. Therefore, when maintenance of the air blower 400 is required, the user may easily maintain and repair only the air blower 400 by separating the air blower 400 after detaching the blower cover 331. Accordingly, self-maintenance of the air blower 400 may also be easily performed.

[0185] The outlet 340 forms a passage through which the air that has been introduced and processed flows out again to the outside. The outlet 340 communicates the outer housing space 320 and the blower passage 540 of the inner housing 500 accommodated in the outer housing space 320 with the outside. The air passing through the arbitrary configuration (that is, the filter or the like) and processed may flow along the blower passage 540 and then pass through the outlet 340 and be discharged to the outside.

[0186] The outlet 340 is located at the first outer surface 311. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 340 is positioned on one side in the longitudinal direction of the first outer surface 311, that is, on the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The position of the outlet 340 may be disposed at an arbitrary position capable of communicating the blower passage 540 with the outside.

[0187] The outlet 340 may include a plurality of through holes and a plurality of ribs respectively positioned between the plurality of through holes. The outlet 340 may have any shape capable of communicating the blower passage 540 with the outside.

[0188] The actuator 350 is configured to receive a control signal for operating the air conditioner 10. The actuator 350 is coupled with the outer housing body 310 and exposed to the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 350 is positioned on the first outer surface 311. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 350 is positioned to be biased toward one side of the first outer surface 311 in the width direction, that is, toward the left side.

[0189] Some configurations of the actuator 350 are exposed to the outer housing space 320. The actuator 350 is electrically connected to the indicator 380, the outer communicator 390, and the inner communicator 550. In addition, the actuator 350 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700.

[0190] The actuator 350 may be provided in any form capable of receiving a control signal from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 350 is provided in the form of a button that is pressed and receives the control signal. The actuator 350 may be disposed to overlap the indicator 380 in the height direction thereof, that is, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment, and thus light corresponding to the applied control signal may be output.

[0191] The sensor insertion opening 360 forms a passage through which the first electronic module 600 is retractably accommodated in the outer housing space 320. The sensor insertion opening 360 is configured to penetrate through one surface of the outer housing body 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor insertion opening 360 is positioned biased toward the upper side of the second outer surface 312.

[0192] The sensor insertion opening 360 is disposed to overlap the sensor-accommodating section 560 formed in the inner housing 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor insertion opening 360 is disposed to overlap the sensor-accommodating section 560 in the thickness direction, that is, the left-right direction. The sensor insertion opening 360 communicates with the sensor-accommodating space 561 of the inner housing 500 accommodated in the outer housing space 320.

[0193] The position of the sensor insertion opening 360 may be changed depending on the position of the sensor-accommodating section 560.

[0194] The sensor insertion opening 360 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first electronic module 600. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor insertion opening 360 is configured as a space having a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the left-right direction.

[0195] The outer coupler 370 is coupled with the second electronic module 700. The substrate coupler 713 of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S may be detachably coupled with the outer coupler 370. Accordingly, the second electronic module 700 may be detachably coupled with the outer housing 300.

[0196] The outer coupler 370 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the substrate coupler 713. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer coupler 370 is provided in the form of a magnet and is detachably coupled with the substrate coupler 713 provided in the form of a magnet. In another embodiment, the outer coupler 370 may be provided in the form of a hook or a clip, and may be detachably coupled with the substrate coupler 713 also provided in the form of a hook or a clip.

[0197] A plurality of outer couplers 370 may be provided. The plurality of outer couplers 370 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first outside surface 311 and may be detachedly coupled with the plurality of substrate couplers 713, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of outer couplers 370 are provided and positioned adjacent to each end in the width direction of the first outer surface 311.

[0198] The indicator 380 outputs information on the state of the air conditioner 10. In addition, the indicator 380 outputs information corresponding to the control signal input through the actuator 350. The user may recognize information on the state of the air conditioner 10 or the state of the indoor air through the information output by the indicator 380.

[0199] The indicator 380 is coupled with the first outer surface 311. In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator 380 is coupled with one side of each side of the first outer surface 311 that surrounds the outer housing space 320 from the upper side, that is, the lower side. The indicator 380 is disposed in the height direction of the actuator 350, that is, in the up-down direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0200] The indicator 380 is electrically connected to the actuator 350. The indicator 380 may output information depending on the operation of the actuator 350. The indicator 380 is electrically connected to the outer communicator 390. The indicator 380 may output information transmitted from the outer communicator 390.

[0201] The indicator 380 may be provided in any form capable of outputting information. In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator 380 may output information in a visualized form such as light. In the embodiment, the indicator 380 includes a bus bar 381, a coupling boss 382, a light emitter 383, and a guide rib 384.

[0202] The bus bar 381 is electrically connected to the actuator 350 and the outer communicator 390, respectively. The bus bar 381 electrically connects the actuator 350 and the outer communicator 390. The control signal input to the actuator 350 may be transmitted to the outer communicator 390 through the bus bar 381. The detection information generated by the first electronic module 600 may be transmitted to the bus bar 381 through the outer communicator 390.

[0203] The bus bar 381 extends between the actuator 350 and the outer communicator 390. In the illustrated embodiment, the bus bar 381 extends in the width direction of the first outer surface 311, that is, the left-right direction.

[0204] The bus bar 381 is electrically coupled with the coupling boss 382. The bus bar 381 may transmit a control signal applied through the coupling boss 382 to the outer communicator 390.

[0205] The coupling boss 382 is pressed by an external force applied to the actuator 350 to receive the control signal. The coupling boss 382 may be electrically coupled with the bus bar 381, and the received control signal may be transmitted to the outer communicator 390 through the bus bar 381.

[0206] The coupling boss 382 is positioned on one surface of the surface of the bus bar 381 facing the first outer surface 311, that is, on the upper surface. The coupling boss 382 is positioned adjacent to one end in the extension direction of the bus bar 381, that is, to the left end in the illustrated embodiment. The bus bar 381 is disposed to face the first outer surface 311 with the coupling boss 382 interposed therebetween.

[0207] The light emitter 383 emits light according to the input control signal or generated detection information and outputs information. The light emitter 383 is electrically connected to the actuator 350 and the outer communicator 390 through the bus bar 381.

[0208] The light emitter 383 may be provided in any form capable of outputting information in the form of light. In an embodiment, the light emitter 383 may be provided in the form of a LED lamp.

[0209] A plurality of light emitters 383 may be provided. The plurality of light emitters 383 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the bus bar 381m that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The plurality of light emitters 383 may be positioned on the lower side of a plurality of buttons provided in the actuator 350, respectively.

[0210] The guide rib 384 supports the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rib 384 supports the second electronic module 700 from the upper side.

[0211] The guide rib 384 is coupled with the bus bar 381. The guide rib 384 is positioned adjacent to one end in the width direction of the bus bar 381, that is, to the left end in the illustrated embodiment. Accordingly, the guide rib 384 may support one end of the second electronic module 700 in the extension direction, that is, one point adjacent to the left end in the illustrated embodiment. As a result, the state in which the second electronic module 700 is accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S may be stably maintained.

[0212] The guide rib 384 may be any shape capable of supporting the second electronic module 700 in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rib 384 has a polygonal column shape in which its cross-sectional area decreases toward the lower side, but the end is configured to be tapered.

[0213] The outer communicator 390 may be electrically connected to the actuator 350 and the indicator 380, respectively, to receive the input control signal and to transmit information to be output to the indicator 380.

[0214] In addition, the outer communicator 390 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 and the inner communicator 550 by the second electronic module 700 and the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S. The outer communicator 390 may transmit the input control signal to the inner communicator 550. In addition, the outer communicator 390 may receive the detection information generated by the first electronic module 600.

[0215] Furthermore, the outer communicator 390 may be electrically connected to the blower coupler 530 to control the operation of the air blower 400.

[0216] The outer communicator 390 may be provided in any form capable of inputting and outputting information, and controlling other configurations. In an embodiment, the outer communicator 390 may be provided in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a printed board assembly (PBA).

[0217] The air blower 400 generates a transfer force to draw external air into the air conditioner 10. In addition, the transfer force provided by the air blower 400 may be used to allow the air introduced and processed by the arbitrary configuration to be discharged back to the outside.

[0218] The air blower 400 is coupled with the outer housing 300. Specifically, the air blower 400 is coupled with the inner housing 500 and accommodated in the outer housing space 320. The transfer force applied by the air blower 400 may be transferred to external air through the outer housing space 320, the support communication hole 211 and the inlet communication hole 111 communicating with the outer housing space 320.

[0219] The air blower 400 is coupled with the inner housing 500. The air blower 400 is accommodated in the blower passage 540 and detachably coupled with the blower coupler 530. The transfer force applied by the air blower 400 may be transferred to the passage space 541 and the inner housing space 520 communicating with the passage space 541, and thus the transfer force in which the inflowed air flows out may be transferred.

[0220] The air blower 400 may be retractably accommodated in the outer housing space 320 through the blower insertion opening 330. Specifically, when the blower cover 331 is detached, the blower insertion opening 330 communicates the outer housing space 320 with the outside. The air blower 400 accommodated in the passage space 541 communicating with the outer housing space 320 may be detached from the blower coupler 530 and retracted from the outer housing space 320.

[0221] The air blower 400 may be provided in any form capable of providing the transfer force to external air. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the air blower 400 is provided in the form of a sirocco fan. In the embodiment, the air blower 400 includes a blower body 410, a blade 420, and a drive source coupler 430.

[0222] The blower body 410 forms the outer shape of the air blower 400. A blade 420 and a drive source coupler 430 are provided in the blower body 410.

[0223] The blower body 410 may be any shape that allows it to be rotatably and detachably coupled with the inner housing 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower body 410 has a three-dimensional shape having a circular cross-section and a height in the front-rear direction, and in which a space is formed therein.

[0224] A blade 420 is formed on the outer circumference of the blower body 410.

[0225] The blade 420 generates a transfer force when the air blower 400 rotates. The blade 420 is formed on an outer circumference of the blower body 410. The blade 420 extends in the height direction of the blower body 410, that is, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In this case, the blade 420 extends obliquely with respect to the radial direction of the blower body 410.

[0226] A plurality of blades 420 may be provided. The plurality of blades 420 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the outer circumference of the blower body 410. A space into which air introduced into the blower body 410 is discharged is formed between the plurality of blades 420.

[0227] That is, it will be understood that the external air is introduced in the axial direction of the blower body 410 and then discharged in the radial direction of the blower body 410.

[0228] The drive source coupler 430 is a part where the air blower 400 is coupled with the inner housing 500. The drive source coupler 430 is positioned inside the blower body 410. The drive source coupler 430 may be configured to have the same center as the center of the cross-section of the blower body 410.

[0229] The drive source coupler 430 is coupled with the blower coupler 530. Specifically, the drive source coupler 430 may be detachably coupled with the blower coupler 530. The drive source coupler 430 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the blower coupler 530.

[0230] In an embodiment, the drive source coupler 430 may be provided in the form of a magnet and may be detachably coupled with the blower coupler 530 provided in the form of a magnet. In another embodiment, the drive source coupler 430 may be provided in the form of a hook or clip, and may be detachably coupled with the blower coupler 530 also provided in the form of a hook or clip.

[0231] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the outer housing 300 to form a substrate module-accommodating section S that retractably accommodates the second electronic module 700. The inner housing 500 is retractably accommodated in the outer housing space 320.

[0232] As described above, in another embodiment, the inner housing 500 may be integrally formed with the outer housing 300. In the above embodiment as well, the inner housing 500 may be at least partially spaced apart from the outer housing 300 to form a space. The substrate module-accommodating section S may be defined as a part or all of the space.

[0233] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the outer cover 100. The inner housing 500 is disposed so that one side thereof, that is, the front side thereof in the illustrated embodiment, is covered by the outer cover 100. The inner housing 500 is not arbitrarily exposed to the outside of the air conditioner 10.

[0234] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the inner cover 200. The inner housing 500 may support the inner cover 200 by at least partially accommodating the inner cover 200.

[0235] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the outer housing 300. The inner housing 500 is accommodated in the outer housing space 320. At least one side surface of the outer surface of the inner housing 500 may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the outer housing 300, so that the space and the substrate module-accommodating section S may be defined.

[0236] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the air blower 400. The inner housing 500 rotatably supports the air blower 400. The inner housing 500 is positioned between the outer cover 100 and the inner cover 200, and the air blower 400.

[0237] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the first electronic module 600. The inner housing 500 retractably accommodates the first electronic module 600 inserted through the sensor insertion opening 360.

[0238] The inner housing 500 is coupled with the second electronic module 700. The inner housing 500 supports the second electronic module 700 and is electrically connected to the second electronic module 700.

[0239] The inner housing 500 communicates with the outside of the air conditioner 10. Specifically, the inner housing 500 may communicate with the inlet communication hole 111 and the support communication hole 211, and external air may flow into the inner housing 500. In addition, the inner housing 500 may communicate with the outlet 340, and the processed air may be discharged back to the outside.

[0240] The inner housing 500 is electrically connected to the outer housing 300. Specifically, the inner housing 500 is electrically connected to the outer housing 300 by the second electronic module 700.

[0241] The inner housing 500 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600. The detection information generated by the first electronic module 600 may be transmitted to the outer communicator 390 through the inner housing 500.

[0242] The inner housing 500 may be configured to have a smaller volume than the outer housing space 320. Accordingly, the inner housing 500 may be accommodated in the outer housing space 320 and spaced apart from an inner surface of the outer housing body 310 by a predetermined distance.

[0243] The inner housing 500 is positioned between the outer cover 100 and the air blower 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer cover 100 is positioned on the front side of the inner housing 500, and the air blower 400 is positioned on the rear side of the inner housing 500.

[0244] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the inner housing 500 includes an inner housing body 510, an inner housing space 520, a blower coupler 530, a blower passage 540, an inner communicator 550, a sensor-accommodating section 560, and an inner support rib 570.

[0245] The inner housing body 510 forms the outer shape of the inner housing 500. Other configurations of the inner housing 500 are coupled with or formed in the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner housing body 510 is provided with an inner housing space 520, a blower coupler 530, a blower passage 540, an inner communicator 550, a sensor-accommodating section 560, and an inner support rib 570.

[0246] The inner housing body 510 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer housing space 320. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner housing body 510 has a rectangular column shape having a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a length in the front-rear direction.

[0247] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner housing body 510 includes a first inner surface 511.

[0248] The first inner surface 511 forms one surface of the inner housing body 510 in the height direction, that is, an upper surface in the illustrated embodiment. The first inner surface 511 surrounds the inner housing space 520 from one side in the height direction, that is, on the upper side.

[0249] The inner communicator 550 is positioned on the first inner surface 511. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner communicator 550 is positioned to be biased toward one side of the first inner surface 511 in the width direction, that is, toward the right side.

[0250] The inner support rib 570 is positioned on the first inner surface 511. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of inner support ribs 570 are provided to be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first inner surface 511, that is, the left-right direction.

[0251] The first inner surface 511 is disposed to be spaced apart from the first outer surface 311 by a predetermined distance. Accordingly, a predetermined space is formed between the first inner surface 511 and the first outer surface 311. A part or all of the space may be defined as a substrate module-accommodating section S. The first inner surface 511 and the inner support rib 570 formed thereon support the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S from the lower side.

[0252] The inner housing space 520 is a space formed inside the inner housing body 510. The inner housing space 520 communicates with the outside through the inlet communication hole 111 and the support communication hole 211. The external air may pass through the arbitrary configuration and be introduced into the inner housing space 520.

[0253] The inner housing space 520 communicates with the blower passage 540 through the blower coupler 530. The air introduced into the inner housing space 520 may be discharged to the blower passage 540 by the transfer force applied by the air blower 400 accommodated in the passage space 541.

[0254] The inner housing space 520 is defined by being partially surrounded by the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper side, the lower side, the left side, the right side, and the rear side of the inner housing space 520 are surrounded by the inner housing body 510. The front side of the inner housing space 520 is configured open. The inner cover 200 may be retractably accommodated in the inner housing space 520 through the front side of the inner housing space 520.

[0255] The blower coupler 530 rotatably supports the air blower 400. In addition, the blower coupler 530 is at least partially configured to penetrate through and communicates the inner housing space 520 with the passage space 541.

[0256] The blower coupler 530 is positioned inside the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower coupler 530 is positioned on one surface of the surface of the inner housing body 510 surrounding the inner housing space 520 from the rear side. The blower coupler 530 is configured to penetrate through the one surface of the inner housing body 510.

[0257] The blower coupler 530 may be any shape capable of communicating the inner housing space 520 with the passage space 541. In the illustrated embodiment, the blower coupler 530 includes a plurality of through-holes centered inside the one surface of the inner housing body 510 and extending in a radial direction.

[0258] In the illustrated embodiment, the blower coupler 530 includes a drive source 531.

[0259] The drive source 531 is coupled with the air blower 400. The drive source 531 is configured to rotate the air blower 400 depending on the input control signal or the like. The drive source 531 may be provided in any configuration capable of rotating the air blower 400, for example, in the form of a motor.

[0260] The drive source 531 is electrically connected to the inner communicator 550. In addition, the drive source 531 is electrically connected to the outer communicator 390 through the second electronic module 700. The control signal for operating the drive source 531 may be transmitted to the drive source 531 by the connection.

[0261] A drive source 531 is positioned on the rear side of the one surface of the inner housing body 510. The drive source 531 may be disposed in the passage space 541 and may be coupled with the air blower 400 rotatably accommodated in the passage space 541.

[0262] The blower passage 540 forms a flow path through which air introduced and processed is discharged to the outside. The blower passage 540 is positioned on the one surface of the inner housing body 510, that is, on the rear surface in the illustrated embodiment. In other words, the blower passage 540 is positioned between the one surface of the inner housing body 510 and the one surface (that is, the rear side) of the surface of the outer housing body 310 where the blower insertion opening 330 is formed.

[0263] The blower passage 540 is coupled with the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the front side edge of the blower passage 540 is coupled with the inner housing body 510.

[0264] The blower passage 540 communicates with the inner housing space 520. Specifically, the blower passage 540 communicates with the inner housing space 520 by the blower coupler 530. The introduced air may be introduced into the blower passage 540.

[0265] The blower passage 540 communicates with the outlet 340. The air entering the blower passage 540 may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 10 through the outlet 340.

[0266] The blower passage 540 is selectively communicated with the blower insertion opening 330 by the blower cover 331. When the blower cover 331 is detached, the blower passage 540 communicates with the outside through the blower insertion opening 330.

[0267] In the illustrated embodiment, the blower passage 540 includes the passage space 541.

[0268] The passage space 541 forms a portion of a flow path through which air introduced from the inner housing space 520 is discharged. The passage space 541 communicates with the inner housing space 520 and the outlet 340, respectively.

[0269] A drive source 531 and an air blower 400 coupled with the drive source 531 are rotatably disposed in the passage space 541. The transfer force applied by the air blower 400 may be used to draw air into the passage space 541 and to discharge it through the outlet 340.

[0270] The inner communicator 550 is electrically connected to the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S. The inner communicator 550 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 and the outer communicator 390 through the second electronic module 700. The inner communicator 550 is electrically connected to the electrical configurations provided in the air conditioner 10, respectively.

[0271] The inner communicator 550 is coupled with the inner housing body 510. Specifically, the inner communicator 550 is disposed on one surface of the inner housing body 510, that is, the first inner surface 511 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0272] The inner communicator 550 is positioned to be biased toward one side of the first inner surface 511 in the extension direction, that is, toward the right side in the illustrated embodiment. In other words, the inner communicator 550 is positioned adjacent to the sensor-accommodating section 560.

[0273] The inner communicator 550 may be provided in any form capable of inputting and outputting information, and controlling other configurations. In an embodiment, the inner communicator 550 may be provided in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a printed board assembly (PBA).

[0274] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner communicator 550 includes an inner substrate 551 and an inner terminal 552.

[0275] The inner substrate 551 forms one configuration of the inner communicator 550. The inner substrate 551 is formed in a plate shape and is coupled with another configuration of the inner communicator 550, that is, the inner terminal 552 in the illustrated embodiment. The inner substrate 551 is electrically connected to the inner terminal 552.

[0276] The inner terminal 552 forms another configuration of the inner communicator 550. The inner terminal 552 is coupled with the inner communicator 550 and electrically connected to the inner communicator 550. The inner terminal 552 is in electrically contact with other external configuration.

[0277] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner terminal 552 is positioned on the upper side of the inner substrate 551 and is electrically connected to the inner substrate 551. In addition, the inner terminal 552 is electrically connected to the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S.

[0278] The inner terminal 552 may be provided in any form capable of being electrically connected to the inner substrate 551 and the second electronic module 700. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner terminal 552 protrudes toward the first outer surface 311 and is configured to be elastically deformable downward. That is, the inner terminal 552 may be pressed by the second electronic module 700 and may be in contact with the second electronic module 700 to be electrically connected. The inner terminal 552 may elastically support the second electronic module 700.

[0279] The sensor-accommodating section 560 retractably accommodates the first electronic module 600. The sensor-accommodating section 560 may include a space for accommodating the first electronic module 600 and a configuration for being electrically connected to the first electronic module 600.

[0280] The sensor-accommodating section 560 is coupled with the inner housing body 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor-accommodating section 560 is positioned adjacent to one end of the first inner surface 511 in the extension direction, that is, the right end. The position of the sensor-accommodating section 560 may be changed corresponding to the position of the sensor insertion opening 360.

[0281] The sensor-accommodating section 560 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600. The sensor-accommodating section 560 may receive detection information generated by the first electronic module 600. The sensor-accommodating section 560 is electrically connected to the inner communicator 550. The sensor-accommodating section 560 may transmit the received detection information to the inner communicator 550.

[0282] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor-accommodating section 560 includes a sensor-accommodating space 561, a sensor coupler 562, a sensor support rib 563, and a sensor communicator 564.

[0283] The sensor-accommodating space 561 is a space for accommodating the first electronic module 600. The sensor-accommodating space 561 is defined by being partially surrounded by a plurality of surfaces of the sensor-accommodating section 560. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper side, the lower side, the front side and the rear side of the sensor-accommodating space 561 are surrounded by the surface of the sensor-accommodating section 560.

[0284] The sensor-accommodating space 561 communicates with the sensor insertion opening 360. The sensor-accommodating space 561 is disposed to overlap along a thickness direction of the sensor insertion opening 360, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. One side of the sensor-accommodating space 561 in the width direction, that is, in the right side in the illustrated embodiment, is configured open and communicates with the sensor insertion opening 360.

[0285] The sensor-accommodating space 561 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the sensor insertion opening 360 or the first electronic module 600. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor-accommodating space 561 has a rectangular column shape having a rectangular cross-section and a height in the left-right direction.

[0286] The sensor coupler 562 is detachably coupled with a coupler 614 provided in the first electronic module 600. The sensor coupler 562 supports the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561.

[0287] The sensor coupler 562 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the coupler 614. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor coupler 562 is provided in the form of a magnet and is electronically coupled with the coupler 614. Alternatively, the sensor coupler 562 may be provided in the form of a hook or clip, and may be detachably coupled with the coupler614, which is also provided in the form of a hook or clip.

[0288] A plurality of sensor couplers 562 may be provided. The plurality of sensor couplers 562 may be disposed at different positions and may be detachably coupled with the plurality of couplers 614, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, four sensor couplers 562 are provided and positioned adjacent to each corner of the sensor-accommodating space 561.

[0289] The sensor support rib 563 supports the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561. An arbitrary swinging of the first electronic module 600 may be prevented by the sensor support rib 563. The sensor support ribs 563 are positioned on the inner surface of the sensor-accommodating section 560 surrounding the sensor-accommodating space 561. The sensor support rib 563 may at least partially support an outer circumference of the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561.

[0290] The sensor support rib 563 protrudes from the inner surface of the sensor-accommodating section 560 surrounding the sensor-accommodating space 561 toward the sensor-accommodating space 561. The sensor support ribs 563 extend in the longitudinal direction of the sensor-accommodating section 560, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0291] A plurality of sensor support ribs 563 may be provided. The plurality of sensor support ribs 563 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the inner surface of the sensor-accommodating section 560 surrounding the sensor-accommodating space 561. Accordingly, the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561 may be supported by the sensor support rib 563 at different positions.

[0292] The sensor communicator 564 is configured such that the sensor-accommodating section 560 is electrically connected to the outside. In addition, the sensor communicator 564 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561. Accordingly, it may be electrically connected to the first electronic module 600, the inner communicator 550, and other configurations of the air conditioner 10.

[0293] The sensor communicator 564 is positioned to be biased toward one side of the sensor-accommodating section 560 in the height direction, that is, toward the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. A part of the configuration of the sensor communicator 564 is exposed to the sensor-accommodating space 561 and is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561.

[0294] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor communicator 564 includes a sensor substrate 564a, a sensor connector 564b, and a sensor terminal 564c.

[0295] The sensor substrate 564a forms one configuration of the sensor communicator 564. The sensor substrate 564a is electrically coupled with another configuration provided in the sensor communicator 564. In addition, the sensor substrate 564a is electrically connected to the inner communicator 550. The sensor substrate 564a is positioned on an outer surface of the sensor-accommodating section 560, that is, on the upper outer surface in the illustrated embodiment.

[0296] The sensor substrate 564a may be provided in any form capable of inputting and outputting information, and controlling other configurations. In an embodiment, the sensor substrate 564a may be provided in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a printed board assembly (PBA).

[0297] The sensor connector 564b electrically connects the sensor substrate 564a and the inner communicator 550. The sensor connector 564b is electrically connected to the sensor substrate 564a and the inner communicator 550, respectively.

[0298] The sensor connector 564b may be provided in any form capable of electrically connecting the sensor substrate 564a and the inner communicator 550. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor connector 564b is provided in the form of a connector.

[0299] The sensor connector 564b may be directly coupled with the sensor substrate 564a and electrically connected to the sensor substrate 564a. In addition, the sensor connector 564b may be electrically connected to the inner communicator 550 by a separate connector member (not illustrated).

[0300] The sensor connector 564b is electrically connected to the sensor terminal 564c by the sensor substrate 564a.

[0301] The sensor terminal 564c is configured such that the sensor-accommodating section 560 is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600. The sensor terminal 564c is electrically connected to the sensor 630 through the electrical connection opening 613 provided in the first electronic module 600.

[0302] The sensor terminal 564c is coupled with the sensor substrate 564a. The sensor terminal 564c is electrically connected to the sensor substrate 564a. The sensor terminal 564c is at least partially exposed to the sensor-accommodating space 561 and is electrically connected to the first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561.

[0303] A plurality of sensor terminals 564c may be provided. The plurality of sensor terminals 564c may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sensor-accommodating section 560, that is, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, three sensor terminals 564c are provided and are spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction. The plurality of sensor terminals 564c are partially accommodated in each of the plurality of electrical connection openings 613.

[0304] The inner support rib 570 supports the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S in the height direction. The inner support rib 570 is configured on the upper side of the first inner surface 511.

[0305] The inner support rib 570 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first inner surface 511, that is, in the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. The inner support rib 570 is configured to protrude upward in the height direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0306] The upper side of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S may be supported by the outer support rib 313, and the lower side thereof may be supported by the inner support rib 570. Accordingly, any swinging of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S may be prevented.

[0307] A plurality of inner support ribs 570 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner support ribs 570 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first inner surface 511, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0308] The first electronic module 600 is provided in the air conditioner 10 to generate detection information on an external environment of the air conditioner 10. The detection information generated by the first electronic module 600 may be transmitted to the inner communicator 550 and the outer communicator 390, and may be utilized to calculate control information for controlling the air conditioner 10. In addition, the detection information may be output through the indicator 380 and recognized by the user.

[0309] The first electronic module 600 may be detachably provided. Specifically, the first electronic module 600 may be retractably insertable through the sensor insertion opening 360 of the outer housing 300. In addition, the first electronic module 600 is retractably accommodated in the sensor-accommodating section 560 of the inner housing 500.

[0310] Accordingly, when maintenance of the first electronic module 600 is required, the user may easily retract the first electronic module 600 from the sensor-accommodating section 560 and the sensor insertion opening 360. Accordingly, self-maintenance of the first electronic module 600 may be easily performed.

[0311] The first electronic module 600 may be provided in any form capable of generating detection information on the external state of the air conditioner 10. In an embodiment, the first electronic module 600 may be provided in the form of a dust sensor or a temperature sensor.

[0312] The first electronic module 600 may be configured asymmetrically along its length direction, that is, the front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. That is, the first electronic module 600 may be configured such that the shapes of the portions adjacent to each end in the extension direction are different from each other. Accordingly, the first electronic module 600 may be coupled with the sensor-accommodating section 560 only in a predetermined direction, and the user may easily recognize this.

[0313] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 17, the first electronic module 600 includes a sensor housing 610, a sensor cover 620, and a sensor 630.

[0314] The sensor housing 610 forms the outer shape of the first electronic module 600. The sensor housing 610 is coupled with or accommodates other configurations of the first electronic module 600.

[0315] The sensor housing 610 is retractably accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561. The sensor housing 610 may be supported by the sensor support rib 563.

[0316] The sensor housing 610 may be configured in a shape corresponding to the shape of the sensor-accommodating space 561. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor housing 610 has a rectangular column shape having a rectangular cross-section and a height in the left-right direction.

[0317] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor housing 610 includes a sensor housing space 611, a coupling groove 612, an electrical connection opening 613, and a coupler 614.

[0318] The sensor housing space 611 is a space formed inside the sensor housing 610. The sensor housing space 611 is defined by being surrounded on a plurality of surfaces constituting the sensor housing 610. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor housing space 611 is defined to be surrounded on the front side, the rear side, the upper side, the lower side and the left side of the sensor housing 610. One side of the sensor housing space 611 in the width direction, that is, the right side illustrated, is configured open.

[0319] The sensor housing space 611 is closed by the sensor cover 620. In the illustrated embodiment, the one side in the width direction of the sensor housing space 611, that is, the right side, may be covered by the sensor cover 620.

[0320] The sensor housing space 611 accommodates the sensor 630. The sensor 630 accommodated in the sensor housing space 611 may be electrically connected to the sensor terminal 564c.

[0321] The coupling groove 612 is detachably coupled with a coupling protrusion 621 of the sensor cover 620. The sensor housing 610 and the sensor cover 620 may be detachably coupled by the coupling groove 612 and the coupling protrusion 621.

[0322] The coupling groove 612 is positioned inside the sensor housing 610. The coupling groove 612 is configured to penetrate through one side of the sensor housing 610 that partially surrounds the sensor housing space 611, that is, the right side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0323] A plurality of coupling grooves 612 may be provided. The plurality of coupling grooves 612 may be disposed inside the sensor housing 610 to be spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling groove 612 is formed on the upper side and the lower side of the rear and the lower side of the front, respectively. The number and arrangement of the coupling grooves 612 may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the coupling protrusions 621.

[0324] The electrical connection opening 613 forms a passage for electrically connecting the sensor 630 accommodated in the sensor housing space 611 to the sensor terminal 564c. The sensor terminal 564c may be accommodated in the electrical connection opening 613.

[0325] The electrical connection opening 613 is configured to penetrate through one side of the sensor housing 610 in the height direction, that is, through the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The electrical connection opening 613 communicates the sensor housing space 611 with the outside in the height direction, that is, in the up-down direction.

[0326] The electrical connection opening 613 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the sensor terminal 564c. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connection opening 613 is positioned to be biased toward the front side of the upper surface of the sensor housing 610.

[0327] A plurality of electrical connection openings 613 may be provided. The plurality of electrical connection openings 613 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the sensor housing 610. In the illustrated embodiment, three electrical connection openings 613 are provided, and are spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction. The plurality of sensor terminals 564c are inserted into and coupled with the plurality of electrical connection openings 613. The number and arrangement of the electrical connection openings 613 may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the sensor terminals 564c.

[0328] The coupler 614 is detachably coupled with the sensor coupler 562 of the inner housing 500. By coupling the coupler 614 and the sensor coupler 562, the first electronic module 600 may be detachably coupled with the inner housing 500.

[0329] The coupler 614 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the sensor coupler 562. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupler 614 may be provided as a magnet and may be coupled with the sensor coupler 562 formed as a magnet by magnetic force.

[0330] As described above, the coupler 614 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the sensor coupler 562, for example in the form of a hook or clip.

[0331] A plurality of couplers 614 may be provided. The plurality of couplers 614 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other and may be detachably coupled with the plurality of sensor couplers 562, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, four couplers 614 are provided and positioned adjacent to the upper and lower corners on the front side and the lower side of the left side of the sensor housing 610 respectively.

[0332] The sensor cover 620 is coupled with the sensor housing 610 and is disposed to cover the sensor housing space 611. The sensor cover 620 is detachably coupled with the sensor housing 610. The sensor cover 620 is exposed the outside of the air conditioner 10. Accordingly, the user may easily recognize the position of the first electronic module 600 through the position of the sensor cover 620.

[0333] The sensor cover 620 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the sensor housing 610. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor cover 620 is provided in a rectangular plate shape having a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the left-right direction.

[0334] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor cover 620 includes a coupling protrusion 621, a grip groove 622, and a sensor support 623.

[0335] The coupling protrusion 621 is configured such that the sensor cover 620 is detachably coupled with the sensor housing 610. The coupling protrusion 621 is retractably inserted and coupled with the coupling groove 612 provided in the sensor housing 610.

[0336] The coupling protrusion 621 may be provided in any shape capable of being detachably coupled with the coupling groove 612. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling protrusion 621 may be provided in the form of a hook and may be hook-coupled with the coupling groove 612.

[0337] A plurality of coupling protrusions 621 may be provided. The plurality of coupling protrusions 621 may be detachably coupled with the plurality of coupling grooves 612, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, four coupling protrusions 621 may be provided, and the coupling protrusions 621 may be disposed on the upper and lower corners of the left side of the sensor cover 620, and spaced apart from each other on the right side of the sensor cover 620 in the up-down direction, respectively.

[0338] The number and arrangement of the coupling protrusions 621 may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the coupling grooves 612.

[0339] The grip groove 622 is a space into which a body part of the user is inserted. The grip groove 622 may be configured to be recessed at one edge of the sensor cover 620 to form a space for a user to grip the sensor cover 620.

[0340] The grip groove 622 may be formed at any position where the body part of the user or the like may be inserted. In the illustrated embodiment, the grip groove 622 is configured to be recessed at the left edge of the sensor cover 620.

[0341] The sensor support 623 supports the sensor 630 accommodated in the sensor housing space 611. The sensor support 623 is partially accommodated in the sensor housing space 611.

[0342] The sensor support 623 is formed on one surface of the surface of the sensor cover 620 facing the sensor housing space 611, that is, on the left surface in the illustrated embodiment. The sensor support 623 is configured to protrude from the left side of the sensor cover 620 in a direction toward the sensor housing space 611, that is, toward the left side.

[0343] The sensor 630 generates detection information on the external environment of the air conditioner 10. The detection information generated by the sensor 630 is transmitted to the inner communicator 550 through the sensor communicator 564. In addition, the detection information is transmitted to the outer communicator 390 and the actuator 350 through the second electronic module 700 electrically connected to the inner communicator 550.

[0344] The sensor 630 may be provided in any form capable of generating detection information on the external environment of the air conditioner 10. In an embodiment, the sensor 630 may be configured to include a dust sensor, a fine dust sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and the like.

[0345] The sensor 630 is accommodated in the sensor housing space 611. The sensor 630 is electrically connected to the sensor terminal 564c accommodated in the electrical connection opening 613.

[0346] The second electronic module 700 electrically connects the outer communicator 390 and the inner communicator 550. The second electronic module 700 is configured to process the generated detection information and the input control information.

[0347] The second electronic module 700 may be provided in any form capable of inputting and outputting information, and controlling other configurations. In an embodiment, the second electronic module 700 may be provided in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a printed board assembly (PBA).

[0348] The second electronic module 700 is coupled with the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500. Specifically, the second electronic module 700 is retractably accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S defined in a space in which the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500 are spaced apart from each other.

[0349] One side of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S in the height direction, that is, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, are electrically connected to the outer communicator 390. In addition, the other side of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S in the height direction, that is, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, are electrically connected to the inner communicator 550.

[0350] That is, the second electronic module 700 electrically connects the outer communicator 390 and the inner communicator 550. At the same time, the second electronic module 700 is retractably accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S. Accordingly, when maintenance of the second electronic module 700 is required, the second electronic module 700 may be easily detached. Accordingly, self-maintenance of the second electronic module 700 may be easily performed.

[0351] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18 to 20, the second electronic module 700 includes a first substrate frame 710, a second substrate frame 720, a first substrate 730, and a second substrate 740.

[0352] The first substrate frame 710 forms one configuration of the second electronic module 700. The first substrate frame 710 is a portion where the second electronic module 700 is exposed to the outside of the substrate module-accommodating section S. In the illustrated embodiment, a front side portion of the first substrate frame 710 is exposed to the outside of the substrate module-accommodating section S.

[0353] The first substrate frame 710 extends in the width direction of the air conditioner 10, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. In this case, the first substrate frame 710 may be configured such that a portion exposed to the outside of the substrate module-accommodating section S, that is, the front side portion is asymmetrical to each other along its extension direction. In other words, portions adjacent to each end of the first substrate frame 710 in the extension direction are formed in different shapes.

[0354] Therefore, the user may easily recognize the insertion direction of the first substrate frame 710. Accordingly, the first substrate frame 710 may be accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S while being disposed in a predetermined direction, thereby facilitating self-maintenance of the user.

[0355] The first substrate frame 710 is coupled with the second substrate frame 720 and the first substrate 730. Specifically, the first substrate frame 710 is coupled with the second substrate frame 720 with the first substrate 730 interposed therebetween.

[0356] In the illustrated embodiment, the first substrate frame 710 includes a grip protrusion 711, an identification groove 712, a substrate coupler 713, a substrate guide rib 714, and a coupling protrusion 715.

[0357] The grip protrusion 711 is a part where the first substrate frame 710 is gripped by the user. The grip protrusion 711 extends in the extension direction of the first substrate frame 710, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0358] The grip protrusion 711 may be any shape capable of being gripped by a user. In the illustrated embodiment, the grip protrusion 711 is formed in a plate shape having a width in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a length in the front-rear direction.

[0359] The identification groove 712 is configured such that the first substrate frame 710 has different shapes along its extension direction. The identification groove 712 is positioned adjacent to one end of the first substrate frame 710 in the extension direction, that is, the right end in the illustrated embodiment. The identification groove 712 is configured to be recessed at the front side surface of the first substrate frame 710.

[0360] A plurality of identification grooves 712 may be provided. The plurality of identification grooves 712 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the width direction of the first substrate frame 710. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of identification grooves 712 are provided and positioned to be biased toward the right end of the first substrate frame 710.

[0361] The substrate coupler 713 is a part where the second electronic module 700 is coupled with the outer housing 300. The substrate coupler 713 is detachably coupled with the outer coupler 370.

[0362] The substrate coupler 713 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the outer coupler 370. In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate coupler 713 may be provided in the form of a magnet and may be coupled with the outer coupler 370 by magnetic force. As described above, the substrate coupler 713 may be provided in any form capable of being detachably coupled with the outer coupler 370, such as a hook or a clip.

[0363] A plurality of substrate couplers 713 may be provided. The plurality of substrate couplers 713 may be detachably coupled with the plurality of outer couplers 370, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of substrate couplers 713 are provided, and are respectively positioned on the rear of each end of the first substrate frame 710 in the extension direction, that is, the left and right ends.

[0364] The substrate guide rib 714 supports the first substrate frame 710 in the height direction with respect to the outer housing 300. The substrate guide rib 714 is in contact with the lower side of the first outer surface 311 to support the second electronic module 700. The substrate guide rib 714 is configured to protrude from the upper side of the first substrate frame 710. In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate guide ribs 714 are positioned to be biased toward the left end of the first substrate frame 710.

[0365] A plurality of substrate guide ribs 714 may be provided. The plurality of substrate guide ribs 714 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first substrate frame 710, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of substrate guide ribs 714 are provided, and are positioned to be biased toward the center portion and the right end of the first substrate frame 710, respectively.

[0366] The coupling protrusion 715 supports the first substrate 730. The coupling protrusion 715 may support the first substrate 730 from the lower side. The coupling protrusion 715 is configured to protrude in a direction toward the first substrate 730, that is, toward the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0367] A plurality of coupling protrusions 715 may be provided. The plurality of coupling protrusions 715 may be spaced apart from each other in the extension direction of the first substrate frame 710, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of coupling protrusions 715 are provided and positioned adjacent to the left end and the central portion of the first substrate frame 710.

[0368] The second substrate frame 720 forms another configuration of the second electronic module 700. The second substrate frame 720 is accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S and is not exposed to the outside. The second substrate frame 720 is coupled with the first substrate frame 710 and the first substrate 730 to support the first substrate 730.

[0369] The second substrate frame 720 extends in the width direction of the air conditioner 10, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. In this case, the second substrate frame 720 may be configured to be asymmetrical to each other along its extension direction. In other words, portions adjacent to each end of the second substrate frame 720 in the extension direction are configured in different shapes.

[0370] Therefore, the user may easily recognize the insertion direction of the second substrate frame 720. Accordingly, the second substrate frame 720 may be accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S while being disposed in a predetermined direction, thereby facilitating self-maintenance of the user.

[0371] In the illustrated embodiment, the second substrate frame 720 includes a first plate 721, a second plate 722, a first support rib 723, a second support rib 724, and a substrate-accommodating space 725.

[0372] The first plate 721 forms one configuration of the second substrate frame 720. The first plate 721 supports the first substrate 730 from the lower side. In other words, the first plate 721 supports the first substrate 730 from one side in the height direction.

[0373] The first plate 721 extends in the extension direction of the second substrate frame 720, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. A plurality of first plates 721 may be provided. The plurality of first plates 721 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the second substrate frame 720.

[0374] In the illustrated embodiment, three first plates 721 are provided and disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction.

[0375] The second plate 722 forms another configuration of the second substrate frame 720. The second plate 722 supports the first substrate 730 from the upper side. In other words, the second plate 722 supports the first substrate 730 from the other side in the height direction.

[0376] The second plate 722 extends in the extension direction of the second substrate frame 720, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The second plate 722 is disposed to face and be spaced apart from each other any one of the first plates 721 located at the center among the plurality of first plates 721.

[0377] The first support rib 723 supports the first substrate 730 from the lower side. Accordingly, the first substrate 730 may be spaced apart from the first plate 721 and supported by the first support rib 723. As a result, heat generated from the first substrate 730 may be easily discharged.

[0378] The first support rib 723 is continuous with the first plate 721. Specifically, the first support rib 723 extends in the height direction, that is, upward, from each end of the first plate 721 in the extension direction, that is, from the left end and the right end in the illustrated embodiment.

[0379] The second support rib 724 supports the first substrate 730 from the upper side. Accordingly, the first substrate 730 may be spaced apart from the second plate 722 and supported by the second support rib 724. As a result, the first substrate 730 may be stably supported and the generated heat may be easily discharged.

[0380] The second support rib 724 is continuous with the second plate 722. Specifically, the second support rib 724 extends in the height direction, that is, downward, from each end of the second plate 722 in the extension direction, that is, from the left end and the right end in the illustrated embodiment.

[0381] The substrate-accommodating space 725 is a space for accommodating the first substrate 730. The substrate-accommodating space 725 is positioned between the first plate 721 and the second plate 722. The first substrate 730 accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space 725 may be supported at its lower side and its upper side by the first support rib 723 and the second support rib 724, respectively.

[0382] The first substrate 730 is configured such that the second electronic module 700 is electrically connected to the outer communicator 390 and the inner communicator 550. The first substrate 730 may receive an input control signal or generated detection information and calculate control information for controlling the rotation of the air blower 400 by using the input control signal or generated detection information.

[0383] The first substrate 730 may be provided in any form capable of inputting and outputting information, and controlling other configurations. In an embodiment, the first substrate 730 may be provided in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or a printed board assembly (PBA).

[0384] The first substrate 730 is coupled with the first substrate frame 710 and the second substrate frame 720, respectively. Specifically, the first substrate 730 is positioned between the first substrate frame 710 and the second substrate frame 720 and is accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space 725. The first substrate 730 is supported by the first support rib 723 and the second support rib 724.

[0385] In the illustrated embodiment, the first substrate 730 includes a switch 731.

[0386] The switch 731 is positioned adjacent to the actuator 350 to receive an external force applied to the actuator 350. The switch 731 may receive the control signal applied to the actuator 350 in the form of an external force.

[0387] A plurality of switches 731 may be provided. The plurality of switches 731 are disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the extension direction of the first substrate 730, that is, in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. The plurality of switches 731 may be disposed to overlap a plurality of buttons provided in the actuator 350, respectively.

[0388] The second substrate 740 electrically connects the first substrate 730 and the inner communicator 550. The second substrate 740 is coupled with the first substrate 730 and is electrically connected to the first substrate 730.

[0389] In the illustrated embodiment, the second substrate 740 includes a substrate terminal 741.

[0390] The substrate terminal 741 is electrically connected to the inner terminal 552 of the inner communicator 550. Accordingly, the second electronic module 700 and the inner communicator 550 may be electrically connected.

[0391] A plurality of substrate terminals 741 may be provided. The plurality of substrate terminals 741 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the second substrate 740. The number and arrangement of the substrate terminals 741 may be changed depending on the number and arrangement of the inner terminals 552.

[0392] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, a process in which each configuration of the air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is detachably coupled and separated is illustrated.

[0393] First, referring to FIGS. 21 to 22, a process of separating the second electronic module 700 is illustrated.

[0394] First, the outer cover 100 is separated from the outer housing 300. Accordingly, the inner cover 200 and the inner housing 500 coupled therewith are exposed to the outside. Next, the inner cover 200 is separated from the outer housing 300. Accordingly, the substrate module-accommodating section S and the first substrate frame 710 of the second electronic module 700 accommodated therein are exposed to the outside. Now, the second electronic module 700 is retracted from the substrate module-accommodating section S.

[0395] Although not illustrated, it will be understood that the coupling process of the second electronic module 700, the inner cover 200, and the outer cover 100 may be achieved by reversely performing the above process.

[0396] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 24, a process of separating the first electronic module 600 is illustrated.

[0397] First, the sensor cover 620 is separated from the outer housing 300. Accordingly, the sensor housing 610 and the sensor 630 accommodated therein are exposed to the outside. Next, the sensor housing 610 is separated from the outer housing 300.

[0398] The illustrated embodiment assumes that the sensor cover 620 is separated first, but it will be understood that the sensor housing 610 and the sensor cover 620 may be separated together.

[0399] Although not illustrated, it will be understood that the coupling process of the first electronic module 600 may be achieved by reversely performing the above process.

[0400] Referring to FIGS. 25 to 27, a state in which each configuration of the air conditioner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is supported by each other is illustrated.

[0401] Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, a state in which the second electronic module 700 is supported by the outer housing 300 and the inner housing 500 is illustrated.

[0402] The second electronic module 700 is retractably accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S. In this case, the upper side of the second electronic module 700 is supported by the outer support rib 313 formed on the lower side of the first outside surface 311. The upper side of the second electronic module 700 is supported by the guide rib 384 of the indicator 380.

[0403] At the same time, the lower side of the second electronic module 700 is supported by the inner support rib 570 formed on the upper side of the first inner surface 511. Accordingly, any swinging of the second electronic module 700 accommodated in the substrate module-accommodating section S may be prevented, and the coupling and electrical connection states of the second electronic module 700 may be stably maintained.

[0404] Referring to FIG. 27, a state in which the first electronic module 600 is supported by the inner housing 500 is illustrated.

[0405] The first electronic module 600 is detachably coupled with the sensor-accommodating section 560 through the sensor insertion opening 360. The first electronic module 600 accommodated in the sensor-accommodating space 561 is supported on each side in its outer circumferential direction by the plurality of sensor support ribs 563. At the same time, the sensor communicator 564 is electrically coupled with the sensor 630 through the electrical connection opening 613.

[0406] Accordingly, the air conditioner 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is detachably provided with the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700. Accordingly, self-maintenance of the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 may be easily performed.

[0407] At the same time, the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 may be supported by other configurations of the air conditioner 10. Accordingly, the coupling and electrical connection states of the first electronic module 600 and the second electronic module 700 may be stably maintained.

[0408] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the idea of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Those of ordinary skill in the art who understand the idea of the present disclosure may easily propose other embodiments through supplement, change, removal, addition, etc. of elements within the same idea, but the embodiments will be also within the scope of the present disclosure.10: air conditioner100: outer cover110: outer cover body111: inlet communication hole120: outer cover space130: outer cover grip protrusion140: outer cover fitting protrusion150: outer cover guide protrusion200: inner cover210: filter support211: support communication hole220: filter receptacle221: filter-accommodating space222: inner cover fitting protrusion223: inner cover support protrusion300: outer housing310: outer housing body311: first outer surface312: second outer surface313: outer support rib320: outer housing space330: blower insertion opening331: blower cover331a: identification protrusion340: outlet350: actuator360: sensor insertion opening370: outer coupler380: indicator381 bus bar382: coupling boss383: light emitter384: guide rib390: outer communicator400: air blower410: blower body420: blade430: drive source coupler500: inner housing510: inner housing body511: first inner surface520: inner housing space530: blower coupler531: drive source540: blower passage541: passage space550: inner communicator551: inner substrate552: inner terminal560: sensor-accommodating section561: sensor-accommodating space562: sensor coupler563: sensor support rib564: sensor communicator564a: sensor substrate564b: sensor connector564c: sensor terminal570: inner support rib600: first electronic module (sensor module)610: sensor housing611: sensor housing space612: coupling groove613: electrical connection opening614: coupler620: sensor cover621: coupling protrusion622: grip groove623: sensor support630: sensor700: second electronic module (substrate module)710: first substrate frame711: grip protrusion712: identification groove713: substrate coupler714: substrate guide rib715: coupling protrusion720: second substrate frame721: first plate722: second plate723: first support rib724: second support rib725: substrate-accommodating space730: first substrate731: switch740: second substrate741: substrate terminalS: substrate module-accommodating section

Claims

1. An air conditioner comprising:a housing configured to form an internal space;an air blower configured to be accommodated in the internal space and provide a blowing force to an air;an inner communicator configured to provide an electrical power or electrical signal to the air blower; andan electronic module configured to retractably coupled with the housing,wherein the housing includes an accommodating section having at least one side open to the outside to accommodate the electronic module,the electronic module is moved from the outside through the one side in a sliding manner and is detached from and attached to the accommodating section, andwhen the electronic module is accommodated in the accommodating section, the electronic module is electrically connected to the inner communicator.

2. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the housing includesan outer housing configured to form a part of an outer shape thereof, andan inner housing configured to be accommodated in the outer housing and support the air blower,wherein the outer housing and the inner housing are at least partially spaced apart from each other, andan accommodating section is formed in a space defined between the outer housing and the inner housing.

3. The air conditioner of claim 2, wherein the electronic module includes a substrate module connected to the inner communicator, andthe substrate module includes:a substrate frame at least partially exposed through the one side when accommodated in the accommodating section; anda substrate coupled with the substrate frame and communicably connected to the inner communicator.

4. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein the inner communicator includes:an inner terminal configured to be elastically deformable, andthe substrate includes:a substrate terminal configured to be in communicable contact with the inner terminal by pressing the inner terminal when accommodated in the accommodating section.

5. The air conditioner of claim 4, wherein the substrate is configured such that an extension length in one direction is longer than an extension length in the other direction, anda plurality of the inner terminals and a plurality of the substrate terminals are provided, respectively, and disposed in parallel and spaced apart from each other along the one direction.

6. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein the housing includes:an actuator configured to be exposed to the outside and receive a control signal, andthe substrate module includes:a second substrate communicably coupled with the actuator.

7. The air conditioner of claim 6, wherein the housing includes:an indicator configured to operate by receiving an external force applied to the actuator and be communicably coupled with the second substrate.

8. The air conditioner of claim 7, wherein the indicator includes:a light emitter configured to turn on and off in response to contact with the actuator by the external force, andthe second substrate includes:a switch configured to be communicably connected to the light emitter and receive the control signal applied by the external force.

9. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein the substrate frame includes:a first substrate frame configured to be exposed to the outside of the accommodating section of the outer housing; anda second substrate frame accommodated in the accommodating section and respectively coupled with the first substrate frame and the substrate.

10. The air conditioner of claim 9, wherein the second substrate frame includes:a first plate configured to extend in one direction; anda second plate configured to extend in the one direction and be positioned to be spaced apart from the first plate in a thickness direction.

11. The air conditioner of claim 10, wherein the substrate module includes:a second substrate configured to be communicably connected to the substrate and be coupled with the first and second substrate frames, andthe second substrate is accommodated in a substrate-accommodating space defined between the first plate and the second plate, andwherein the second substrate frame includes:a first support rib configured to protrude from the first plate toward the second plate and support the second substrate accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space at one side in a height direction; anda second support rib configured to protrude from the second plate toward the first plate and support the second substrate accommodated in the substrate-accommodating space at the other side in the height direction.

12. (canceled)13. The air conditioner of claim 2, wherein the outer housing includes:an outer support rib configured to extend toward the inner housing and support the accommodated electronic module at one side in a height direction, andthe inner housing includes:an inner support rib configured to extend toward the outer housing and support the accommodated electronic module at the other side in the height direction.

14. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein the outer housing includes:an outer coupler configured to be detachably coupled with the substrate module, andthe substrate module includes a substrate coupler configured to be positioned on one side facing the outer coupler and be detachably coupled with the outer coupler.

15. The air conditioner of claim 14, wherein the outer coupler and the substrate coupler are each provided with a magnet, and the outer housing and the substrate module are coupled with each other by a magnetic attraction.

16. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein a part of the substrate frame exposed to the outside of the space of the outer housing is configured to be asymmetrical with one side and the other side opposite to the one side along its extension direction.

17. The air conditioner of claim 16, wherein the substrate frame includes:a grip protrusion configured such a user may grip it when the substrate frame is detached from the accommodating section; andan identification groove configured to guide a mounting direction when the substrate frame is mounted to the accommodating section.

18. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the electronic module includes:a sensor module configured to be communicably connected to the inner communicator and generate a detection information on an external environment, andwherein the accommodating section includes:a sensor-accommodating section having a sensor-accommodating space formed therein and communicated with the outside through an opening.

19. (canceled)20. The air conditioner of claim 18, wherein the sensor module includes:a sensor configured to generate the detection information; anda sensor housing having a sensor housing space formed therein to accommodate the sensor, and inserted into and supported by the sensor-accommodating section.

21. The air conditioner of claim 20, wherein the sensor-accommodating section includes:a sensor terminal configured to elastically deforms in a direction toward the sensor-accommodating space; anda sensor connector configured to be respectively communicably connected to the sensor terminal and the inner communicator.

22. The air conditioner of claim 21, wherein the sensor-accommodating section includes a sensor coupler configured to be positioned in the sensor-accommodating space and be detachably coupled with the sensor module, anda sensor support rib configured to protrude from an inner surface surrounding the sensor-accommodating space in an outer circumferential direction and support the accommodated sensor housing from an outer side, andthe sensor module includes a coupler configured to be positioned on one side facing the sensor coupler and be detachably coupled with the sensor coupler.

23. (canceled)

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