Ventilation apparatus

Abstract

A ventilation apparatus may include a housing including an opening at one side, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the opening, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the opening. The second cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position engaged with the first cover while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening, and a second position separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT / KR2026 / 002622 designating the United States, filed on Feb. 12, 2026, in the Korean Intellectual Property Receiving Office and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2025-0036721, filed on Mar. 21, 2025, and 10-2025-0087419, filed on Jun. 30, 2025, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The disclosure relates to a ventilation apparatus.Description of Related Art

[0003] A ventilation apparatus is an apparatus for supplying outside air into an indoor space and discharging room air to an outside space to ventilate the indoor space.

[0004] The ventilation apparatus may include a total heat exchanger configured to exchange heat between outside air and room air. The total heat exchanger exchanges heat of air exhausted from the indoor space with heat of air introduced from the outside space while the air passes through the total heat exchanger, thereby saving energy required to control the temperature or humidity of the indoor space.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus improved to adjust a temperature and humidity of air that is supplied to an indoor space.

[0006] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus improved to allow an easy access to inside of a housing.

[0007] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus improved to, while a cover rotates with respect to a housing, reduce a degree of interference with objects around the ventilation apparatus.

[0008] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus improved to, while a cover covers an opening of a housing, stably fix the cover with respect to the housing.

[0009] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus improved to, while a plurality of covers cover an opening of a housing, seal a gap between the plurality of covers.

[0010] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a ventilation apparatus designed to be installable in various environments.

[0011] The technical object intended to be achieved by the present document is not limited to the above-mentioned technical objects, and other technical objects not mentioned will be clearly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical art to which the present disclosure belongs from the following description.

[0012] A ventilation apparatus according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including an opening at one side, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the opening, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the opening. The second cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the first cover while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening, and a second position of being separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

[0013] A ventilation apparatus according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, may include: a housing including an opening at one side, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the opening, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the opening. The second cover may be slidingly movable with respect to the housing between a first position of being locked by the first cover and a second position of being unlocked from the first cover.

[0014] A ventilation apparatus according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a housing including a first inlet configured to receive outside air flowing into the housing, a second inlet configured to receive room air flowing into the housing, a first outlet configured to discharge air flowing in through the first inlet to an indoor space, a second outlet configured to discharge air flowing in through the second inlet to an outside space, and an accommodating space including an opening at one side, a heat exchanger positioned inside the accommodating space and configured to cause heat exchange between air flowing from the first inlet toward the first outlet and air flowing from the second inlet toward the second outlet, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of an open side of the accommodating space, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the open side of the accommodating space. While the first cover covers the first area of the open side of the accommodating space and the second cover covers the second area of the open side of the accommodating space, the second cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the first cover and a second position of being separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example integrated air-conditioning system including a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating circulation of a refrigerant in an integrated air-conditioning system including a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a ventilation apparatus as seen from below according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path of air inside a housing of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a circulation flow path inside a housing of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating components arranged inside a housing of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus with covers open according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of a ventilation apparatus and enlarged views of buttons included in the ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 11 is an enlarged partial perspective view of some portions, such as covers, button, etc., included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a second cover slides from a first position to a second position according to various embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a second cover opens an area of an opening of a housing according to various embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a first cover and a second cover open an opening of a housing according to various embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus are engaged with each other according to various embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus are separated from each other according to various embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover is located at a first position according to various embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover is located at a second position according to various embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover opens an opening of the housing according to various embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a first cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the first cover covers an opening of the housing according to various embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a first cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the first cover opens an opening of the housing according to various embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing various components, such as a button of a second cover, a lever, and a first cover, included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing various components, such as a button of a second cover, a lever, and a first cover, included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a front view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Configurations illustrated in the various example embodiments and the drawings described in the present disclosure are example embodiments of the present disclosure, and thus it is to be understood that various modified examples, are possible.

[0042] Like reference numerals or symbols denoted in the drawings of the present disclosure represent members or components that perform the substantially same functions.

[0043] The terms used in the present disclosure are used to describe the various embodiments, not for the purpose of limiting and / or restricting the present disclosure. It is to be understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be understood that when the terms "includes," "comprises," "including," and / or "comprising," when used in this disclosure, specify the presence of stated features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

[0044] It will be understood that, although the terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first", "second", etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component could be termed a second component, and, similarly, a second component could be termed a first component, without departing from the scope of rights of the present disclosure. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of a plurality of associated listed items.

[0045] In the following description, the terms "upper and lower directions", "lower", "front and rear directions", etc. are defined based on the drawings, and the shapes and positions of the components are not limited by the terms.

[0046] Hereinafter, various example embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0047] In the following descriptions of various example embodiments of the present disclosure given with reference to FIGS. 1 to 25, the terms "upper", "lower", "vertical direction (upper and lower directions)", "horizontal direction", etc. are defined based on the drawings, and the shapes and positions of the components are not limited by the terms. For example, "vertical direction (up-down direction)" may refer, for example, to a direction that is parallel to a Z direction based on the drawings, and "upward" and "downward" may refer, for example, to a +Z direction and -Z direction, respectively, based on the drawings. For example, the term "horizontal direction" below may refer, for example, to, as a direction that is parallel to a X-Y plane based on the drawings, a direction that is perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example integrated air-conditioning system including a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating circulation of a refrigerant in an integrated air-conditioning system including a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an integrated air-conditioning system AC according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a ventilation apparatus 1 and an outdoor unit 3.

[0050] The ventilation apparatus 1 may exchange air of an indoor space with air of an outside space to ventilate the indoor space. The ventilation apparatus 1 may be connected to the indoor space and the outside space. For example, the ventilation apparatus b may be installed in a mechanical room (e.g., a multipurpose room of a house) that is distinct from the outside space and the indoor space. However, in various embodiments, a place where the ventilation apparatus 1 is installed is not limited thereto.

[0051] The outdoor unit 3 may circulate a refrigerant that is supplied to the ventilation apparatus 1. The outdoor unit 3 may be connected to the ventilation apparatus 1.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the integrated air-conditioning system AC may include a second apparatus 4 such as the ventilation apparatus 1 connected to the outdoor unit 3. The second apparatus 4 may correspond to a separate air-conditioning apparatus including an indoor unit of an air conditioner, etc. In the present disclosure, a case in which the second apparatus 4 is indoor units connected in parallel to each other and placed in the indoor space together with the ventilation apparatus 1 will be described as an example. According to an embodiment, the second apparatus 4 may include a plurality of indoor units 4a and 4b connected in parallel to each other and installed in the indoor space. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 and the second apparatus 4 which is an indoor unit may be connected in parallel to the outdoor unit 3 and placed in the indoor space to provide all functions of ventilation, air purification, dehumidification, and temperature control in the indoor space.

[0054] As such, the integrated air-conditioning system AC may operate one or more second apparatuses 4 and the ventilation apparatus 1 using one outdoor unit 3.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2, the integrated air-conditioning system AC according to an embodiment may further include a refrigerant distributor 9 that relays the ventilation apparatus 1 and the outdoor unit 3. The refrigerant distributor 9 may be connected to the outdoor unit 3. The refrigerant distributor 9 may be connected to the ventilation apparatus 1. The refrigerant distributor 9 may be connected to the second apparatus 4 (e.g., an indoor unit of an air conditioner). The refrigerant distributor 9 may receive a refrigerant from the outdoor unit 3 and distribute the refrigerant to at least one second apparatus 4 and the ventilation apparatus 1 in correspondence to a load of each of the indoor unit 300 and the ventilation apparatus 1. For example, the refrigerant distributor 9 may include a heat recovery cycle.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include heat exchangers 160 and 170 connected to the outdoor unit 3. The heat exchangers 160 and 170 may exchange heat with air by utilizing a phase change of a refrigerant. The ventilation apparatus 1 may exchange heat with air by utilizing the heat exchangers 160 and 170. For example, the heat exchangers 160 and 170 may be cooled or heated. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may dehumidify air to be supplied to the indoor space by utilizing the heat exchangers 160 and 170.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a first heat exchanger 160 and a second heat exchanger 170.

[0058] The second heat exchanger 170 may be connected to the outdoor unit 3 and / or the refrigerant distributor 9 through a first refrigerant pipe 91. For example, the second heat exchanger 170 may be connected to an outdoor heat exchanger 3d of the outdoor unit 3 through the first refrigerant pipe 91. Alternatively, for example, the second heat exchanger 170 may be connected to the refrigerant distributor 9 connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 3d through the first refrigerant pipe 91 and may be connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 3d of the outdoor unit 3 via the refrigerant distributor 9. The second heat exchanger 170 may receive a refrigerant from the outdoor unit 3 and / or the refrigerant distributor 9 through the first refrigerant pipe 91.

[0059] The first heat exchanger 160 may be connected to the second heat exchanger 170 through a second refrigerant pipe 92. The first heat exchanger 160 may be connected to the outdoor unit 3 and / or the refrigerant distributor 9 through a third refrigerant pipe 93. For example, the first heat exchanger 160 may be connected to an accumulator 3c of the outdoor unit 3 through the third refrigerant pipe 93. The first heat exchanger 160 may be connected to the refrigerant distributor 9 connected to the accumulator 3c (or a flow switching valve 3f connected to the accumulator 3c) through the third refrigerant pipe 93 and may be connected to the accumulator 3c of the outdoor unit 3 via the refrigerant distributor 9. The first heat exchanger 160 may transfer a refrigerant to the outdoor unit 3 and / or the refrigerant distributor 9 through the third refrigerant pipe 93.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a first expansion device E1 provided on the first refrigerant pipe 91. The first expansion device E1 may selectively expand a refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 160 through the first refrigerant pipe 91. Pressure of the refrigerant passed through the first expansion device E1 may be lower than that of the refrigerant before passing through the first expansion device E1.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a second expansion device E2 provided on the second refrigerant pipe 92. The second expansion device E2 may selectively expand a refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 170 and supplied to the first heat exchanger 160 through the second refrigerant pipe 92. Pressure of the refrigerant passed through the second expansion device E2 may be lower than that of the refrigerant before passing through the second expansion device E2.

[0062] The first expansion device E1 may include an electronic expansion valve (EEV) capable of expanding a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant by a throttling action and controlling a flow rate of a refrigerant that is supplied to the second heat exchanger 170. The electronic expansion valve may control a degree of expansion of the refrigerant and a flow rate of the refrigerant by controlling an opening degree. While the electronic expansion valve is fully opened, the refrigerant may pass through the electronic expansion valve without resistance, and the electronic expansion valve may not expand the refrigerant.

[0063] The second expansion device E2 may include a solenoid valve and a capillary tube connected in parallel to the solenoid valve to expand a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant by a throttling action. While the solenoid valve is closed, the refrigerant may flow through the capillary tube and be expanded by throttling. While the solenoid valve opens, the refrigerant may flow through the solenoid valve without resistance and may not expand. The solenoid valve may be replaced with an electronic expansion valve (EEV) to efficiently control a flow and expansion of the refrigerant.

[0064] However, types of the first expansion device E1 and the second expansion device E2 are not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the first expansion device E1 and the second expansion device E2 may include various components. For example, both the first expansion device E1 and the second expansion device E2 may include only an electronic expansion valve. For example, the first expansion device E1 may include a solenoid valve and a capillary tube connected in parallel to the solenoid valve, and the second expansion device E2 may include an electronic expansion valve. For example, both the first expansion device E1 and the second expansion device E2 may include a solenoid valve and a capillary tube connected in parallel to the solenoid valve. The solenoid valve connected in parallel to the capillary tube may be replaced with an electronic expansion valve.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may receive a refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 3d through the first refrigerant pipe 91 and may operate in a first dehumidification mode, a second dehumidification mode, or a ventilation mode depending on whether the first expansion device E1 and / or the second expansion device E2 expands the refrigerant.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the outdoor unit 3 may include a compressor 3a and the outdoor heat exchanger 3d. The compressor 3a may include a compressor body 3b and the accumulator 3c. For example, the outdoor heat exchanger 3d may include a condenser. The compressor 3a and the outdoor heat exchanger 3d may be connected by a refrigerant pipe.

[0067] The outdoor unit 3 may include an outdoor fan 3e for adjusting a temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 3d. The outdoor fan 3e may blow air toward the outdoor heat exchanger 3d. The outdoor fan 3e may cool the outdoor heat exchanger 3d. A temperature of a refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger 3d may be lowered by the outdoor fan 3e.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the outdoor unit 3 may include the flow switching valve 3f. The flow switching valve 3f may switch a flow of the refrigerant between components included in the outdoor unit 3. The flow switching valve 3f may selectively open or close refrigerant flow paths between the components included in the outdoor unit 3. For example, the flow switching valve 3f may selectively open or close various flow paths including a refrigerant flow path from the compressor body 3b toward the outdoor heat exchanger 3d, a refrigerant flow path from the compressor body 3b toward the refrigerant distributor 9, and a refrigerant flow path from the compressor body 3b and / or the refrigerant distributor 9 toward the accumulator 3c.

[0069] Hereinafter, operations of the ventilation apparatus 1 and the outdoor unit 3 included in the integrated air-conditioning system AC according to various example embodiments will be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the integrated air-conditioning system AC may operate in one of the first dehumidification mode, the second dehumidification mode, and the ventilation mode based on an indoor temperature and indoor humidity. The integrated air-conditioning system AC may be switched between the first dehumidification mode and the ventilation mode based on an indoor temperature and indoor humidity. The integrated air-conditioning system AC may be switched between the second dehumidification mode and the ventilation mode based on an indoor temperature and indoor humidity. The integrated air-conditioning system AC may be switched between the first dehumidification mode and the second dehumidification mode based on an indoor temperature and indoor humidity.

[0071] While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the ventilation mode, heat exchange by the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170 may not occur, and total heat exchange by a heat exchanger or total heat exchanger 140 (see FIG. 4, etc.) which will be described in greater detail below may occur. The terms “heat exchanger” and “total heat exchanger” may be used interchangeably in the disclosure. For example, the integrated air-conditioning system AC may operate in the ventilation mode by blocking a flow of the refrigerant flowing into the ventilation apparatus 1, blocking the refrigerant flowing into the ventilation apparatus 1 from flowing into the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170, or turning off the outdoor unit 3.

[0072] While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the first dehumidification mode, the first expansion device E1 may expand the refrigerant. While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the first dehumidification mode, the second expansion device E2 may expand or not expand the refrigerant. For example, in the first dehumidification mode, a solenoid valve of the second expansion device E2 may open to allow the refrigerant to flow smoothly, and the second expansion device E2 may not expand the refrigerant.

[0073] While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the first dehumidification mode, a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor body 3b may be condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 3d of the outdoor unit 3 and then flow into the first expansion device E1. The first expansion device E1 may expand the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant to a low-temperature, low-pressure state such that the refrigerant is evaporated in the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170. The refrigerant expanded in the first expansion device E1 may be evaporated while passing through the second heat exchanger 170. The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 170 and flowing into the first heat exchanger 160 may be evaporated once again in the second heat exchanger 170. The first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170 may condense and remove moisture from air passing through the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170 and cool the air passing through the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170. As a result, the ventilation apparatus 1 operating in the first dehumidification mode may lower both a temperature and humidity of outside air that flows to the indoor space. The air supplied to the indoor space by the ventilation apparatus 1 operating in the first dehumidification mode may have a temperature and humidity that a user may feel comfortably.

[0074] While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the second dehumidification mode, the first expansion device E1 may not expand the refrigerant. While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the second dehumidification mode, the second expansion device E2 may expand the refrigerant.

[0075] While the integrated air-conditioning system AC operates in the second dehumidification mode, a high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor body 3b may be condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 3d of the outdoor unit 3 and then flow into the second heat exchanger 170. The second heat exchanger 170 which has received the refrigerant may condense the refrigerant. The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger 170 may be expanded to a low-temperature and low-pressure state by the second expansion device E2. The refrigerant expanded to the low-temperature and low-pressure state may flow into the first heat exchanger 160, and the first heat exchanger 160 may evaporate the refrigerant. Air supplied to the indoor space may sequentially pass through the first heat exchanger 160 and the second heat exchanger 170. The first heat exchanger 160 may condense and remove moisture from the air passing through the first heat exchanger 160, and the air passing through the first heat exchanger 160 may be cooled and dehumidified. The second heat exchanger 170 may heat the air from which moisture has been removed by the first heat exchanger 160 that condenses the refrigerant. Because the cooled air is heated by the second heat exchanger 170 while passing through the second heat exchanger 170, a temperature of the air may increase and relative humidity may further decrease. By the ventilation apparatus 1 operating in the first dehumidification mode, air supplied to the indoor space may have a temperature and humidity that a user may feel comfortably.

[0076] The integrated air-conditioning system AC described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 may be one of various example embodiments of an air-conditioning system including the ventilation apparatus 1, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, the ventilation apparatus 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 25.

[0077] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a ventilation apparatus, as seen from below according to various embodiments.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may exchange air of an indoor space with air of an outside space to ventilate the indoor space. The ventilation apparatus 1 may be connected to the outside space and the indoor space. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may be installed in a mechanical room (e.g., a multipurpose room of a house) that is distinct from the outside space and the indoor space. However, in various embodiments, a place where the ventilation apparatus 1 is installed is not limited thereto.

[0079] The ventilation apparatus 1 may include a housing 10. The housing 10 may accommodate various components of the ventilation apparatus 1, such as fans 210 and 220, the total heat exchanger 140, and filters 121, 122, and 123. The housing 10 may form at least a part of an appearance of the ventilation apparatus 1. For example, the housing 10 may have a substantially hexahedral shape.

[0080] The housing 10 may include an inlet (e.g., a first inlet 21a and a second inlet 22a) through which air flows into the housing 10 and an outlet (e.g., a first outlet 24a and a second outlet 23a) through which air inside the housing 10 is discharged from the housing 10.

[0081] For example, the housing 10 may include the first inlet 21a through which outside air OA flows to inside of the housing 10. The outside air OA may be sucked into a first intake chamber 211 formed inside the housing 10 through the first inlet 21a.

[0082] For example, the housing 10 may include the second inlet 22a through which room air RA flows to the inside of the housing 10. The room air RA may be sucked into a second intake chamber 221 formed inside the housing 10 through the second inlet 22a.

[0083] For example, the housing 10 may include the first outlet 24a through which air inside the housing 10 is discharged to the indoor space. The first outlet 24a may supply supply air SA to the indoor space. The supply air SA may be defined as air supplied from the inside of the housing 10 to the indoor space. For example, outside air OA flowed to the inside of the housing 10 through the first inlet 21a may be discharged to the indoor space as supply air SA through the first outlet 24a. For example, the supply air SA may be supplied to the indoor space from a first exhaust chamber 241 formed inside the housing 10 through the first outlet 24a.

[0084] For example, the housing 10 may include the second outlet 23a through which air inside the housing 10 is discharged to the outside space. The second outlet 23a may discharge exhaust air EA to the outside space. The exhaust air EA may be defined as air discharged from the inside of the housing 10 to the outside space. For example, room air RA flowed to the inside of the housing 10 through the second inlet 22a may be discharged as exhaust air EA to the outside space through the second outlet 23a. For example, the exhaust air EA may be discharged to the outside space from a second exhaust chamber 231 formed inside the housing 10 through the second outlet 23a.

[0085] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the housing 10 of the ventilation apparatus 1 may include various numbers of inlets and outlets.

[0086] The ventilation apparatus 1 may include a plurality of ducts 11, 12, 13, and 14. The plurality of ducts 11, 12, 13, and 14 may be connected to the housing 10 and extend toward the outside space or the indoor space. Each of the plurality of ducts 11, 12, 13, and 14 may be connected to at least one of the inlets (e.g., the first inlet 21a and the second inlet 22a) or the outlets (e.g., the first outlet 24a and the second outlet 23a). According to an embodiment, the number of the plurality of ducts 11, 12, 13, and 14 may correspond to the number of the inlets and outlets (e.g., the first inlet 21a, the second inlet 22a, the first outlet 24a, and the second outlet 23a).

[0087] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a first duct 11 connected to the housing 10 and extending toward the outside space. The first duct 11 may connect the inside of the housing 10 with the outside space to allow outside air OA to be sucked into the inside of the housing 10. The first duct 11 may be connected to the first inlet 21a.

[0088] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a second duct 12 connected to the housing 10 and extending toward the indoor space. The second duct 12 may connect the inside of the housing 10 with the indoor space to allow room air RA to be sucked into the inside of the housing 10. The second duct 12 may be connected to the second inlet 22a.

[0089] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a third duct 14 connected to the housing 10 and extending toward the indoor space. The third duct 14 may connect the inside of the housing 10 with the indoor space to allow supply air SA to be supplied to the indoor space. The third duct 14 may be connected to the first outlet 24a.

[0090] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a fourth duct 13 connected to the housing 10 and extending toward the outside space. The fourth duct 13 may connect the side of the housing 10 with the outside space to allow exhaust air EA to be discharged to the outside space. The fourth duct 13 may be connected to the second outlet 23a.

[0091] Each of the first duct 11, the second duct 12, the third duct 14, and / or the fourth duct 13 may have a structure detachably connected to the housing 10. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the first duct 11, the second duct 12, the third duct 14, and / or the fourth duct 13 may be integrated into the housing 10.

[0092] The ventilation apparatus 1 may include a plurality of partition walls 51, 52, 53, and 54 that partition the inside of the housing 10 into a plurality of spaces. The first intake chamber 211, the second intake chamber 221, the first exhaust chamber 241, and the second exhaust chamber 231 may be formed inside the housing 10 by the plurality of partition walls 51, 52, 53, and 54. An inside space of the housing 10 may be partitioned into the first intake chamber 211, the second intake chamber 221, the first exhaust chamber 241, and the second exhaust chamber 231 by a first partition wall 51, a second partition wall 52, a third partition wall 53, and a fourth partition wall 54.

[0093] For example, the first partition wall 51 may partition the first intake chamber 211 and the second exhaust chamber 231. The second partition wall 52 may partition the first exhaust chamber 241 and the second exhaust chamber 231. The third partition wall 53 may partition the first exhaust chamber 241 and the second intake chamber 221. The fourth partition wall 54 may partition the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a plurality of dampers 31, 32, and 33. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a first damper 31 that opens or closes the first inlet 21a. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a second damper 32 that opens or closes the second inlet 22a. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a third damper 33 that allows or blocks a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221.

[0095] The first damper 31 may open the first inlet 21a to allow air to flow between the first intake chamber 211 and the outside space. For example, the first damper 31 may open the first inlet 21a to allow outside air OA to be sucked into the first intake chamber 211.

[0096] The first damper 31 may close the first inlet 21a to block a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the outside space. For example, the first damper 31 may close the first inlet 21a to block outside air OA from being sucked into the first intake chamber 211. For example, the first damper 31 may close the first inlet 21a to block air from being discharged from the first intake chamber 211 to the outside space.

[0097] The second damper 32 may open the second inlet 22a to allow air to flow between the second intake chamber 221 and the indoor space. For example, the second damper 32 may open the second inlet 22a to allow room air RA to be sucked into the second intake chamber 221.

[0098] The second damper 32 may close the second inlet 22a to block a flow of air between the second intake chamber 221 and the indoor space. For example, the second damper 32 may close the second inlet 22a to block room air RA from being sucked into the second intake chamber 221. For example, the second damper 32 may close the second inlet 22a to block air from being discharged from the second intake chamber 221 to the indoor space.

[0099] The third damper 33 may allow or block a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221. For example, the third damper 33 may open or close an opening of the fourth partition wall 54 to allow or block a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221. For example, the third damper 33 may open the opening of the fourth partition wall 54 to allow a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221. For example, the third damper 33 may close the opening of the fourth partition wall 54 to block a flow of air between the first intake chamber 211 and the second intake chamber 221.

[0100] The ventilation apparatus 1 may include the total heat exchanger 140. The total heat exchanger 140 may be positioned inside the housing 10. The total heat exchanger 140 may be installed in the housing 10. The total heat exchanger 140 may be positioned between the first inlet 21a and the first outlet 24a. The total heat exchanger 140 may be positioned between the second inlet 22a and the second outlet 23a.

[0101] The total heat exchanger 140 may allow air to pass through. For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may allow air flowing from the first inlet 21a toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see an supply flow path R1 in FIG. 5) to pass through. For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may allow air flowing from the second inlet 22a toward the second outlet 23a (e.g., see an exhaust flow path R2 in FIG. 5) to pass through. For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may allow air flowing from the second inlet 22a toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see a circulation flow path R3 in FIG. 6) to pass through.

[0102] For example, outside air OA flowed into the housing 10 through the first inlet 21a may sequentially pass through a first surface of the total heat exchanger 140 and a second surface of the total heat exchanger 140, the second surface being opposite to the first surface, and flow to the first outlet 24a. For example, room air RA flowed into the housing 10 through the second inlet 22a may sequentially pass through a third surface of the total heat exchanger 140 formed between the first surface and the second surface, and a fourth surface of the total heat exchanger 140, the fourth surface being opposite to the third surface, and flow to the second outlet 23a.

[0103] For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may have a substantially hexahedral shape. However, the shape of the total heat exchanger 140 is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the total heat exchanger 140 may have various shapes.

[0104] The total heat exchanger 140 may exchange heat with air flowing into the housing 10. For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may cause heat exchange between outside air OA flowing into the housing 10 through the first inlet 21a and room air RA flowing into the housing 10 through the second inlet 22a. The total heat exchanger 140 may cause heat exchange between air flowing from the first inlet 21a toward the first outlet 24a and air flowing from the second inlet 22a toward the second outlet 23a.

[0105] For example, the total heat exchanger 140 may include, but is not limited to, a paper material coated with lithium chloride. However, the total heat exchanger 140 may include various materials. In various embodiments, the total heat exchanger 140 may include various types of heat exchangers, such as a plate heat exchanger or a rotary heat exchanger.

[0106] The total heat exchanger 140 may also be referred to as other terms, such as a heat exchange element, an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), a heat recovery ventilator (HRV), etc.

[0107] The ventilation apparatus 1 may include one or more filters (e.g., a first filter 121, a second filter 122, and a third filter 123). The filters may be arranged inside the housing 10. The filters may be mounted on the housing 10. The filters may filter and / or collect foreign substances in air flowing inside the housing 10.

[0108] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include the first filter 121 and the second filter 122 for removing foreign substances contained in outside air OA sucked in through the first inlet 21a.

[0109] The first filter 121 may be positioned between the second filter 122 and the total heat exchanger 140. The first filter 121 may remove relatively small-sized foreign substances remaining in outside air OA passed through the second filter 122.

[0110] For example, the first filter 121 may include a HEPA filter. The HEPA filter is a high-efficiency particulate air filter and may include glass fiber. For example, the first filter 121 may include an antibacterial copper dust collection filter.

[0111] The second filter 122 may be positioned between the first intake chamber 211 and the first filter 121. The second filter 122 may remove foreign substances having relatively large sizes. For example, foreign substances filtered by the second filter 122 may be larger than foreign substances filtered by the first filter 121.

[0112] For example, the second filter 122 may include a pre-filter. For example, the second filter 122 may include a fine filter.

[0113] The first filter 121 and the second filter 122 may remove fine dust remaining in not only outside air OA but also room air RA. For example, the first filter 121 and the second filter 122 may remove fine dust from room air RA flowing along the circulation flow path R3 (see FIG. 6) formed inside the housing 10, which will be described below.

[0114] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include the third filter 123 for removing foreign substances contained in room air RA sucked in through the second inlet 22a.

[0115] The third filter 123 may be positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the second intake chamber 221. The third filter 123 may remove foreign substances contained in room air RA sucked in through the second inlet 22a. The third filter 123 may prevent / limit the total heat exchanger 140 from being contaminated by room air RA by removing foreign substances contained in the room air RA.

[0116] For example, the third filter 123 may include a pre-filter. For example, the third filter 123 may include a fine filter.

[0117] Types of the first filter 121, the second filter 122, and the third filter 123 are not limited to those described above, and in various embodiments, the filters may include various types of filters for removing foreign substances contained in air flowing inside the housing 10.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a plurality of fans 210 and 220. Each of the plurality of fans 210 and 220 may cause air to flow inside the housing 10.

[0119] The plurality of fans 210 and 220 may include a first fan 210 for discharging air through the first outlet 24a. The first fan 210 may generate wind power required to discharge air through the first outlet 24a. The first fan 210 may be positioned adjacent to the first outlet 24a inside the first exhaust chamber 241. For example, the first fan 210 may rotate to suck in outside air OA through the first inlet 21a, cause the outside air OA to flow along the supply flow path R1 (see FIG. 5), and then discharge the outside air OA through the first outlet 24a. For example, the first fan 210 may rotate to suck in room air RA through the second inlet 22a, cause the room air RA to flow along the circulation flow path R3 (see FIG. 6), and then discharge the room air RA through the first outlet 24a.

[0120] The plurality of fans 210 and 220 may include a second fan 220 for discharging air through the second outlet 23a. The second fan 220 may generate wind power required to discharge air through the second outlet 23a. The second fan 220 may be positioned adjacent to the second outlet 23a inside the second exhaust chamber 231. For example, the second fan 220 may rotate to suck in room air RA through the second inlet 22a, cause the room air RA to flow along the exhaust flow path R2 (see FIG. 5), and then discharge the room air RA through the second outlet 23a.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a dehumidification module 150. The dehumidification module 150 may adjust a temperature and humidity of air flowing inside the housing 10. For example, the dehumidification module 150 may perform a dehumidification function of removing moisture from air flowing toward the first outlet 24a to be supplied to the indoor space. For example, the dehumidification module 150 may perform a constant-temperature dehumidification function of removing moisture from air flowing toward the first outlet 24a to be supplied to the indoor space and maintaining a temperature within a certain range (e.g., a temperature of room air RA).

[0122] The dehumidification module 150 may adjust a temperature or humidity of air through heat exchange with the air. The dehumidification module 150 may also be referred to as a 'heat exchanger 150'.

[0123] The dehumidification module 150 may perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and outside air using a phase change (for example, evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. The dehumidification module 150 may be connected to the outdoor unit through a refrigerant pipe and may operate as a part of a refrigerant circulation system. For example, the dehumidification module 150 may have a structure through which the refrigerant supplied from the outdoor unit included in the refrigerant circulation system circulates to cool or heat air flowing through the inside of the housing 10 depending on a temperature or pressure of the refrigerant.

[0124] By removing moisture contained in air flowing through the inside of the housing 10 and cooling or heating the air, air having an appropriate temperature and humidity may be supplied to the indoor space. Also, the dehumidification module 150 may function to prevent / reduce the total heat exchanger 140 from being frozen when an outside temperature is low.

[0125] The dehumidifying module 150 may be positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first outlet 24a. The dehumidifying module 150 may adjust a temperature and humidity of air passed through the total heat exchanger 140. The dehumidifying module 150 may remove moisture from the air passed through the total heat exchanger 140. The dehumidifying module 150 may be positioned in the first exhaust chamber 241.

[0126] However, the position of the dehumidification module 150 is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the dehumidification module 150 may be positioned at various locations inside the housing 10.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the dehumidification module 150 may be positioned between the first inlet 21a and the total heat exchanger 140. The dehumidification module 150 may adjust a temperature and / or humidity of air received through the first inlet 21a and flowing into the total heat exchanger 140. The dehumidification module 150 may remove moisture from the air received the first inlet 21a and flowing into the total heat exchanger 140. The dehumidification module 150 may be positioned in the first intake chamber 211.

[0128] According to an embodiment, a portion of the dehumidification module 150 may be positioned between the first intake chamber 211 and the total heat exchanger 140, and another portion may be positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first exhaust chamber 241.

[0129] According to an embodiment, the dehumidification module 150 may include an evaporator 160 and a condenser 170.

[0130] The evaporator 160 may cool air. The air may be cooled while passing through the evaporator 160, and water vapor in the air may be removed from the air by being condensed and discharged as condensed water. For example, the evaporator 160 may absorb heat from air passing through the evaporator 160 through evaporation of the refrigerant cool, thereby heating the air. For example, the evaporator 160 may include a fin-tube type heat exchanger.

[0131] The evaporator 160 may be referred to as a 'first heat exchanger'. The evaporator 160 may be the first heat exchanger 160 described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0132] The evaporator 160 may condense water vapor by cooling air flowing into the first outlet 24a. For example, the evaporator 160 may condense water vapor by cooling air flowing from the first inlet 21a toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see the supply flow path R1 in FIG. 3) or air flowing from the second inlet 22a toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see the circulation flow path R3 in FIG. 4).

[0133] The condenser 170 may heat air. The air may be heated while passing through the condenser 170, and accordingly, a temperature of the air may again increase to a temperature that is substantially equal or similar to a temperature of room air RA while relative humidity of the air is lowered. For example, the condenser 170 may release heat to air passing through the condenser 170 through condensation of the refrigerant, thereby heating the air. For example, the condenser 170 may include a fin-tube type heat exchanger.

[0134] The condenser 170 may be referred to as a 'second heat exchanger'. The condenser 170 may be the second heat exchanger 170 in the second dehumidification mode described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0135] The condenser 170 may heat air passed through the evaporator 160 and flowing to the first outlet 24a. For example, the condenser 170 may heat air that flows into the first inlet 21a, passes through the evaporator 160, and then flows toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see the supply flow path R1 in FIG. 5) or air that flows into the second inlet 22a, passes through the evaporator 160, and then flows toward the first outlet 24a (e.g., see the circulation flow path R3 in FIG. 6).

[0136] In an embodiment in which the dehumidification module 150 is positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first outlet 24a, the evaporator 160 and the condenser 170 may be positioned in the first exhaust chamber 241. The evaporator 160 may be positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first outlet 24a to cool air flowing from the total heat exchanger 140 toward the first outlet 24a, and the condenser 170 may be positioned between the evaporator 160 and the first outlet 24a to heat air flowing from the evaporator 160 toward the first outlet 24a. For example, the evaporator 160 may be positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first fan 210, and the condenser 170 may be positioned between the evaporator 160 and the first fan 210.

[0137] In FIG. 4, an embodiment in which the dehumidification module 150 is positioned between the total heat exchanger 140 and the first outlet 24a is shown. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in the example in which the dehumidification module 150 is positioned between the first inlet 21a and the total heat exchanger 140, the evaporator 160 and the condenser 170 may be positioned in the first intake chamber 211. The evaporator 160 may be positioned between the first inlet 21a and the total heat exchanger 140 to cool air flowing from the first inlet 21a toward the total heat exchanger 140, and the condenser 170 may be positioned between the evaporator 160 and the total heat exchanger 140 to heat air flowing from the evaporator 160 toward the total heat exchanger 140.

[0138] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a connecting pipe 90 (see, e.g., FIG. 8) connected to the evaporator 160 and / or the condenser 170. A refrigerant path through which the refrigerant flows may be formed inside the connecting pipe 90. For example, the connecting pipe 90 may connect the evaporator 160 with the condenser 170. For example, the connecting pipe 90 may connect the evaporator 160 and / or the condenser 170 to other components of the air-conditioning system. For example, the first refrigerant pipe 91, the second refrigerant pipe 92, the third refrigerant pipe 93, etc., described above with reference to FIG. 2 may be included in the connecting pipe b.

[0139] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a drain pan 400 (see, e.g., FIG. 8). The drain pan 400 may be positioned inside the housing 10. The drain pan 400 may be positioned below the dehumidification module 150 (in the -Z direction). For example, the drain pan 400 may be positioned below the evaporator 160 (in the -Z direction). The drain pan 400 may cover the evaporator 160 from below (in the -Z direction). For example, the drain pan 400 may be positioned below the condenser 170 (in the -Z direction). The drain pan 400 may cover the condenser 170 from below (in the -Z direction). For example, the drain pan 400 may be positioned below the connecting pipe 90 (in the -Z direction). The drain pan 400 may cover the connecting pipe 90 from below (-Z direction).

[0140] The drain pan 400 (see, e.g., FIG. 8) may collect condensed water. For example, the drain pan 400 may collect condensed water drained from a surface of the evaporator 160. The drain pan 400 may be positioned below the evaporator 160 (in the -Z direction) to collect condensed water drained from the surface of the evaporator 160. For example, the drain pan 400 may collect condensed water drained from the surface of the connecting pipe 90. The drain pan 400 may be positioned below the connecting pipe 90 (in the -Z direction) to collect condensed water drained from the surface of the connecting pipe 90.

[0141] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a drain pump 80 (see FIG. 8) for pumping water collected in the drain pan 400 to drain the water, and a drain hose 81 (see FIG. 8) connected to the drain pump 80 to drain water pumped by the drain pump 80 to outside of the housing 10.

[0142] The drain pan 400 may support the drain pump 80. For example, the drain pump 80 may be rested on the drain pan 400. By being rested on the drain pan 400, the drain pump 80 may pump water collected in the drain pan 400 upward.

[0143] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a first differential pressure sensor 71 and a second differential pressure sensor 72 for measuring an internal pressure difference of the housing 10. The first differential pressure sensor 71 may be positioned in the first intake chamber 211. The first differential pressure sensor 71 may be fixed to the housing 10 inside the first intake chamber 211. The second differential pressure sensor 72 may be positioned in the second intake chamber 221. The second differential pressure sensor 72 may be fixed to the housing 10 inside the second intake chamber 221.

[0144] Each of the first differential pressure sensor 71 and the second differential pressure sensor 72 may measure a pressure difference between pressure upstream of a filter (e.g., an air inlet side of the filter) and pressure downstream of a filter (e.g., an air outlet side of the filter).

[0145] For example, the first differential pressure sensor 71 may measure a difference between pressure upstream of the second filter 122 and pressure downstream of the first filter 121. For example, the first differential pressure sensor 71 may measure a difference between pressure in the first intake chamber 211 and pressure in a space between the first filter 121 and the total heat exchanger 140.

[0146] The first differential pressure sensor 71 may be connected to a first differential pressure tube 71a. The first differential pressure tube 71a may pass through holes formed in lower portions of the second filter 122 and the first filter 121 and extend downstream of the first filter 121, and the first differential pressure sensor 71 may measure pressure downstream of the first filter 121 through air flowing in through the first differential pressure tube 71a. For example, one end of the first differential pressure tube 71a may be connected to the first differential pressure sensor 71, and another end of the first differential pressure tube 71a may extend to the space between the first filter 121 and the total heat exchanger 140 to measure pressure downstream of the first filter 121 through air flowing into the first differential pressure tube 71a from the space between the first filter 121 and the total heat exchanger 140.

[0147] The second differential pressure sensor 72 may measure a difference between pressure upstream of the third filter 123 and pressure downstream of the third filter 123. For example, the second differential pressure sensor 72 may measure a difference between pressure in the second intake chamber 221 and pressure in the second exhaust chamber 231.

[0148] The second differential pressure sensor 72 may be connected to the second differential pressure tube 72a. The second differential pressure tube 72a may pass through a hole formed in a lower portion of the third filter 123 and extend downstream of the third filter 123, and the second differential pressure sensor 72 may measure pressure downstream of the third filter 123 through air flowing in through the second differential pressure tube 72a. For example, an end of the second differential pressure tube 72b may be connected to the second differential pressure sensor 72, and another end of the second differential pressure tube 72b may extend to the second exhaust chamber 231 to measure pressure downstream of the third filter 123 through air flowing from the second exhaust chamber 231 to the second differential pressure tube 72a.

[0149] Components of the ventilation apparatus 1 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 are simply examples of components that may be included in the ventilation apparatus 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include various components for exchanging room air with outside air to ventilate an indoor space.

[0150] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path of air inside a housing of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 5, the housing 10 of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the supply flow path R1 and the exhaust flow path R2.

[0152] The supply flow path R1 may be a flow path that guides outside air OA to an indoor space. For example, the supply flow path R1 may be a flow path through which outside air OA sucked in from an outside space through the first inlet 21a sequentially passes through the filters 121 and 122, the total heat exchanger 140, and the dehumidification module 150 and then flows to the first outlet 24a through the first exhaust chamber 241. The first damper 31 may open the first inlet 21a to allow the outside air OA to flow through the supply flow path R1.

[0153] While the first fan 210 operates, outside air OA may flow along the supply flow path R1. For example, outside air OA sucked in through the first inlet 21a by wind power generated while the first fan 210 operates may flow through the supply flow path R1. The outside air OA flowing through the supply flow path R1 may be supplied as supply air SA to the indoor space through the first outlet 24a. The first fan 210 may be referred to as a supply fan in that the first fan 210 supplies air to the indoor space while the first fan 210 operates.

[0154] The exhaust flow path R2 may be a flow path that guides room air RA to the outside space. For example, the exhaust flow path R2 may be a flow path through which room air RA sucked into the second intake chamber 221 through the second inlet 22a sequentially passes through the third filter 123 and the total heat exchanger 140 and then flows to the second outlet 23a through the second exhaust chamber 231.

[0155] The second damper 32 may open the second inlet 22a to allow room air RA to flow through the exhaust flow path R2.

[0156] While the second fan 220 operates, room air RA may flow along the exhaust flow path R2. For example, room air RA sucked in through the second inlet 22a by wind power generated while the second fan 220 operates may flow through the exhaust flow path R2. The room air RA flowing through the exhaust flow path R2 may be discharged as exhaust air EA to the outside space through the second outlet 23a. The second fan 220 may be referred to as an exhaust fan in that the second fan 220 discharges air to the outside space while the second fan 220 operates.

[0157] The supply flow path R1 and the exhaust air flow path R2 may be arranged crosswise with the total heat exchanger 140 as the center. The total heat exchanger 140 may cause heat exchange between outside air OA flowing along the supply flow path R1 and room air RA flowing along the exhaust flow path R2, and accordingly, a temperature and humidity of the outside air OA may be adjusted to a temperature and humidity close to those of the room air before the outside air OA is supplied to the indoor space. Accordingly, even when room air is ventilated, changes in temperature and humidity of the room air may not be large, thereby improving energy efficiency of heating and cooling.

[0158] The supply flow path R1 and the exhaust flow path R2 may be partitioned by the plurality of partition walls 51, 52, 53, and 54 such that air flows through independent spaces inside the total heat exchanger 140 or the housing 10 and is prevented / limited from being mixed with each other.

[0159] The ventilation apparatus 1 may perform the ventilation mode of operating both the first fan 210 and the second fan 220 to supply outside air OA as supply air SA to the indoor space by causing the outside air OA to flow through the supply air path R1, and exhaust room air RA as exhaust air EA to the outside space by causing the room air RA to flow through the exhaust air path R2.

[0160] The ventilation apparatus 1 may perform various ventilation modes. The ventilation modes may include a constant temperature dehumidification ventilation mode and a cooling dehumidification ventilation mode.

[0161] For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may perform the constant temperature dehumidification ventilation mode of adjusting only humidity of outside air OA by cooling the outside air OA through the evaporator 160 and then again heating the outside air OA through the condenser 170. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may perform the cooling dehumidification ventilation mode of lowering both a temperature and humidity of outside air OA by cooling the outside air OA through the evaporator 160 and then not operating the condenser 170 or heating the outside air OA relatively little through the condenser 170.

[0162] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating circulation flow path R3 inside the housing 10 of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to various embodiments.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 6, the housing 10 of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the circulation flow path R3.

[0164] The circulation flow path R3 may be a flow path that guides room air RA back to the indoor space. For example, the circulation flow path R3 may be a flow path through which room air RA sucked in from the indoor space through the second inlet 22a sequentially passes through the second intake chamber 221, the first intake chamber 211, the filters 121 and 122, the total heat exchanger 140, and the dehumidification module 150 and then is discharged to the first outlet 24a through the first exhaust chamber 241. To allow the room air RA to flow through the circulation flow path R3, the first damper 31 may close the first inlet 21a, the second damper 32 may open the second inlet 22a, and the third damper 33 may open an opening of the fourth partition wall 54.

[0165] While the first fan 210 operates, room air RA may flow along the circulation flow path R3. For example, room air RA sucked in through the second inlet 22a may flow through the circulation flow path R3 by wind power generated while the first fan 210 operates. The room air RA flowing through the circulation flow path R3 may be supplied as supply air SA to the indoor space through the first outlet 24a.

[0166] The ventilation apparatus 1 may perform an indoor circulation mode of operating the first fan 210 to circulate room air RA through the circulation path R3 and supply the room air RA as supply air SA back to the indoor space.

[0167] The ventilation apparatus 1 may perform a dehumidifying indoor circulation mode of operating the first fan 210 to circulate room air RA through the circulation path R3 and operating the dehumidifying module 150 to adjust a temperature or humidity of the room air RA and then supply the room air RA as supply air SA back to the indoor space.

[0168] Hereinafter, various components included in the ventilation apparatus 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 25.

[0169] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing components arranged inside a housing of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while covers are open according to various embodiments.

[0170] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the housing 10 that forms an appearance of the ventilation apparatus 1 and accommodates various components of the ventilation apparatus 1.

[0171] The housing 10 may be mounted on a ceiling C of a space located between an outside space and an indoor space. For example, the housing 10 may be mounted on a ceiling C of a mechanical room (e.g., a multipurpose room of a house) that is distinct from the outside space and the indoor space. For example, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a bracket 2 that is coupled to the housing 10, and by fixing the bracket 2 to the ceiling C, the housing 10 may be mounted on the ceiling C.

[0172] A direction (e.g., a direction that is opposite to gravity) toward the ceiling C when the housing 10 is mounted on the ceiling C may be defined as an upward direction (+Z direction) of the ventilation apparatus 1, and a direction (e.g., a direction of gravity) that is opposite to the ceiling C may be defined as a downward direction (-Z direction) of the ventilation apparatus 1. A up-down direction of the ventilation apparatus 1 may be defined as a vertical direction (Z direction), and a direction (e.g., a direction that is parallel to the ground) that is perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z direction) may be defined as a horizontal direction (a direction that is parallel to a X-Y plane) of the ventilation apparatus 1.

[0173] An accommodating space 10b may be formed inside the housing 10. Various components (e.g., the total heat exchanger 140, the filters 121, 122, and 123, the dehumidifying module 150, etc.) of the ventilation apparatus 1 may be accommodated in the accommodating space 10b of the housing 10. Various components of the ventilation apparatus 1 may be mounted on the ventilation apparatus 1 inside the accommodating space 10b.

[0174] According to an embodiment, the accommodating space 10b of the housing 10 may open at one side. The housing 10 may include an opening 10a at one side. Various components of the ventilation apparatus 1 arranged inside the accommodating space 10b may be accessible from outside through the opening 10a. The components that are accessible from the outside through the opening 10a may include, for example, the total heat exchanger 140, the filters 121, 122, and 123, an electrical part cover 18 which will be described below, an electrical part 60, an electrical part frame 17, a base frame 16, and various other components positioned inside the housing 10.

[0175] For example, the opening 10a of the housing 10 may be provided in a lower side (-Z direction side) of the housing 10. The opening 10a may be provided at a side that is opposite to the ceiling C on which the ventilation apparatus 1 is mounted. The accommodating space 10b of the housing 10 may open from below (-Z direction side). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the opening 10a may be provided in one side of the housing 10 in various directions (directions on the X-Y plane), such as the horizontal direction of the housing 10.

[0176] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include a housing body 15. The housing body 15 may accommodate various components of the ventilation apparatus 1. The housing body 15 may form at least a part of the appearance of the ventilation apparatus 1. The housing body 15 may be coupled to the bracket 2.

[0177] For example, the housing body 15 may form at least upper and side portions of the housing 10 in the horizontal direction. For example, the housing body 15 may have a box shape of which a lower side (in the -Z direction) opens. For example, the housing body 15 may have a box shape with an opening 10a formed at the lower side (in the -Z direction).

[0178] The first inlet 21a, the second inlet 22a, the first outlet 24a, and the second outlet 23a described above may be formed in the housing body 15. For example, the first inlet 21a and the second outlet 23a may connect inside of the housing body 15 with the outside space. For example, the second inlet 22a and the first outlet 24a may connect the inside of the housing body 15 with the indoor space.

[0179] The first duct 11, the second duct 12, the third duct 14, and the fourth duct 13 described above may be connected to the housing body 15. For example, the first duct 11, the second duct 12, the third duct 14, and the fourth duct 13 may be coupled to the housing body 15.

[0180] The partition walls 51, 52, 53, and 54 described above may be included in the housing body 15. For example, the partition walls 51, 52, 53, and 54 may be formed on an inner surface of the housing body 15.

[0181] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include the base frame 16. The base frame 16 may support various components of the ventilation apparatus 1. For example, the base frame 16 may support various components, such as the plurality of fans 210 and 220, a support frame 145, the connecting pipe 90, the drain pan 400, etc., from below (-Z direction).

[0182] The base frame 16 may cover the housing body 15 from below (-Z direction). The base frame 16 may cover at least a part of the open lower side of the housing body 15. The base frame 16 may be coupled to the lower side of the housing body 15. For example, the base frame 16 may cover at least an area of the opening 10a.

[0183] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include the electrical part frame 17. The electrical part 60 of the ventilation apparatus 1 may be mounted on the electrical part frame 17. The electrical part 60 may include various circuits for controlling components of the ventilation apparatus 1. For example, the electrical part frame 17 may cover at least a portion of the base frame 16 from below (-Z direction). For example, the electrical part frame 17 may be coupled to a lower side of the base frame 16. For example, the electrical part 60 may be mounted on a lower side of the electrical part frame 17. Accordingly, the electrical part 60 may be positioned in an area except for an inside space of the housing body 15 through which air flows and may be protected from moisture or foreign substances in air.

[0184] According to an embodiment, the electrical part frame 17 and the base frame 16 may be provided as separate components and then coupled to each other. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrical part frame 17 and the base frame 16 may be integrated into one body.

[0185] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include an electrical part cover 18 that covers the electrical part 60. The electrical part cover 18 may be coupled to the electrical part frame 17 to cover the electrical part 60. For example, the electrical part cover 18 may be coupled to a lower side of the electrical part frame 17 to cover the electrical part 60 from below (-Z direction).

[0186] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include a total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c in which the total heat exchanger 140 is detachably mounted. The total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may be formed inside the housing 10. The total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may be included in the accommodating space 10b of the housing 10. For example, the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may be formed in a space between the housing body 15 and the base frame 16.

[0187] In the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c, the support frame 145 for supporting the total heat exchanger 140 may be provided. The support frame 145 may support at least one side of the total heat exchanger 140. The support frame 145 may support at least one edge of the total heat exchanger 140. The support frame 145 may be fixed to the housing 10 (e.g., the housing body 15, the base frame 16, etc.). The total heat exchanger 140 may be mounted and supported on the support frame 145 while being accommodated in the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the total heat exchanger 140 may be supported by various components in the housing 10.

[0188] The total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may open at one side. An opening 10a may be provided at one side of the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. The total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may be accessible from the outside through the opening 10a. For example, each of the base frame 16, the electrical part frame 17, etc. may have an opening to allow an access from the outside through the open side of the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. Accordingly, the total heat exchanger 140 may be withdrawn and separated from the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c through the open side of the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c, or may be inserted and mounted in the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c.

[0189] For example, the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may open at a lower side (in the -Z direction). Accordingly, the total heat exchanger 140 may be inserted upward (in the +Z direction) into the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c and mounted in the heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. In addition, the total heat exchanger 140 may be separated from the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c by being pulled out downward (in the -Z direction) from the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c may open in various directions.

[0190] According to an embodiment, the housing 10 may include a filter mounting portion 10d in which one or more filters (e.g., the first filter 121, the second filter 122, and the third filter 123) are detachably installed. The filter mounting portion 10d may be formed inside the housing 10. The filter mounting portion 10d may be included in the accommodating space 10b of the housing 10. For example, the filter mounting portion 10d may be formed in the space between the housing body 15 and the base frame 16.

[0191] For example, the one or more filters (e.g., the first filter 121, the second filter 122, and the third filter 123) may be supported by the support frame 145. The one or more filters may be installed in and supported by the support frame 145 while being accommodated in the filter mounting portion 10d. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the one or more filters may be supported by various components inside the housing 10.

[0192] The filter mounting portion 10d may open at one side. The opening 10a may be provided at the one side of the filter mounting portion 10d. The filter mounting portion 10d may be accessible from the outside through the opening 10a. For example, each of the base frame 16, the electrical part frame 17, etc. may have an opening to allow an access from the outside through the open side of the filter mounting portion 10d. Accordingly, the one or more filters (e.g., the first filter 121, the second filter 122, and the third filter 123, etc.) may be separated from the filter mounting portion 10d by being pulled out from the filter mounting portion 10d through the open side of the filter mounting portion 10d, or may be mounted in the filter mounting portion 10d by being inserted into the filter mounting portion 10d through the open side of the filter mounting portion 10d.

[0193] For example, the filter mounting portion 10d may open at a lower side (in the -Z direction). Accordingly, the one or more filters may be installed in the filter mounting portion 10d by being inserted upward (in the +Z direction) into the filter mounting portion 10d. Also, the one or more filters may be separated from the filter mounting portion 10d by being pulled out downward (in the -Z direction) from the filter mounting portion 10d. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the filter mounting portion 10d may open in various directions.

[0194] According to an embodiment, the filter mounting portion 10d may be connected to the total heat exchanger mounting portion. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the filter mounting portion 10d may be separated from the heat exchanger mounting portion 10c.

[0195] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a cover (e.g., a first cover 310 and a second cover 320). The cover may open or cover the open side of the housing 10. The cover may open or cover the opening 10a of the housing 10. The cover may open or cover the open side of the accommodating space 10b of the housing 10. For example, the cover may open or close the open side of the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c. For example, the cover may open or close the open side of the filter mounting portion 10d. For example, the cover may open or close the open lower side of the housing 10. By covering the open side of the housing 10, the cover may cover various components of the housing 10, such as the housing body 15, the base frame 16, the electrical part frame 17, and the electrical part cover 18. By covering the open lower side of the housing 10, the cover may cover various components of the ventilation apparatus 1, such as the total heat exchanger 140 and the one or more filters 121, 122, and 123 installed in the housing 10.

[0196] According to an embodiment, the cover of the ventilation apparatus 1 may include the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. The first cover 310 may open or cover a first area of the opening 10a of the housing 10. The second cover 320 may open or cover a second area of the opening 10a of the housing 10. Here, at least a part of the second area of the opening 10a of the housing 10 opened or covered by the second cover 320 may be distinguished from the first area of the opening 10a of the housing 10 opened or covered by the first cover 310.

[0197] For example, the first cover 310 may open or cover the first area of the housing 10 from below (-Z direction). For example, the second cover 320 may open or cover the second area of the housing 10 from below (-Z direction).

[0198] The first cover 310 may be coupled to the housing 10. The first cover 310 may be coupled to one side of the housing 10. The first cover 310 may be coupled to a side adjacent to the opening 10a of the housing body 15. For example, the first cover 310 may be coupled to a lower portion of the housing 10.

[0199] The first cover 310 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10. The first cover 310 may include a first cover support 315. The first cover support 315 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10. For example, the first cover support 315 may be rotatably coupled to a first cover coupling portion 15a of the housing body 15. The first cover support 315 may support the first cover 310 such that the first cover 310 is rotatable with respect to the housing 10. A rotation shaft (which may hereinafter, be referred to as a "rotation shaft of the first cover 310") of the first cover 310 with respect to the housing 10 may pass through the first cover support 315.

[0200] According to an embodiment, the first cover 310 may include a plurality of first cover supports 315. The plurality of first cover supports 315 may be arranged along a direction of the rotational shaft of the first cover 310. For example, a pair of first cover supports 315 may be provided. However, the number of the first cover supports 315 is not limited thereto.

[0201] The second cover 320 may be coupled to the housing 10. The second cover 320 may be coupled to one side of the housing 10. The second cover 320 may be coupled to a side adjacent to the opening 10a of the housing body 15. For example, the second cover 320 may be coupled to the lower portion of the housing 10.

[0202] The second cover 320 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10. The second cover 320 may include a second cover support 325. The second cover support 325 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10. For example, the second cover support 325 may be rotatably coupled to a second cover coupling portion 15b of the housing body 15. The second cover support 325 may support the second cover 320 such that the second cover 320 is rotatable with respect to the housing 10. A rotation shaft (which may hereinafter be referred to as a "rotation shaft of the second cover 320") of the second cover 320 with respect to the housing 10 may pass through the second cover support 325.

[0203] According to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may include a plurality of second cover supports 325. The plurality of second cover supports 325 may be arranged along a direction of the rotation shaft of the second cover 320. For example, a pair of second cover supports 325 may be provided. However, the number of the second cover supports 325 is not limited thereto.

[0204] The first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be arranged side by side. For example, the direction of the rotation shaft of the first cover 310 may be parallel to the direction of the rotation shaft of the second cover 320. For example, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be arranged in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of the rotation shafts of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. For example, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be arranged in parallel with the opening 10a. For example, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be arranged in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0205] For example, the rotation shaft of the first cover 310 may be located at a side of the first cover 310, the side being opposite to another side of the first cover 310 that is close to the second cover 320. The first cover support 315 may be located at a side of the first cover 310, the side being opposite to another side of the first cover 310 that is close to the second cover 320. The rotation shaft of the second cover 320 may be located at a side of the second cover 320, the side being opposite to another side of the second cover 320 that is close to the first cover 310. The second cover support 325 may be located at a side of the second cover 320, the side being opposite to another side of the second cover 320 that is close to the first cover 310.

[0206] While the first cover 310 and / or the second cover 320 opens the opening 10a of the housing 10, an access to the total heat exchanger mounting portion 10c from an open side (e.g., below) may be allowed. Therefore, the total heat exchanger 140 may be installed in or separated from the housing 10.

[0207] While the first cover 310 and / or the second cover 320 opens the opening 10a of the housing 10, an access to the filter mounting portion 10d from the open side (e.g., below) may be allowed. Therefore, the one or more filters 121, 122, and 123 may be installed in or separated from the housing 10.

[0208] While the first cover 310 and / or the second cover 320 opens the opening 10a of the housing 10, the electrical part cover 18 may be separated from the electrical part frame 17. By separating the electrical part cover 18 from the electrical part frame 17, an access to the electrical part 60 may be allowed and accordingly, a task of inspecting, replacing, or repairing the electrical part 60 may be performed.

[0209] Because the opening 10a of the housing 10 is opened and closed by the first cover 310 and the second cover 320, a degree of interference with objects around the ventilation apparatus 1 while the cover rotates may be reduced compared to a case where the opening 10a is opened and closed only by one cover. In the example where the ventilation apparatus 1 includes the first cover 310 that opens or covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 that opens or covers the second area of the opening 10a, a relative length of one cover with respect to the opening 10a may become smaller, thereby reducing a degree of interference with objects around the ventilation apparatus 1 when the cover rotates, compared to an embodiment where the ventilation apparatus 1 includes only one cover that entirely opens or covers the opening 10a. For example, in a case where ventilation apparatus 1 is mounted on a ceiling C of a mechanical room, etc. and the ventilation apparatus 1 includes the first cover 310 and the second cover 320, a degree of interference with objects placed below the ventilation apparatus 1 while the first cover 310 or the second cover 320 rotates may be reduced.

[0210] According to an embodiment, an insulating material 360 may be positioned on an inner surface of the first cover 310 that covers the opening 10a of the housing 10. The insulating material 360 may be positioned on the inner surface of the first cover 310 facing the opening 10a of the housing 10. For example, the insulating material 360 may be positioned on an inner surface of a first panel body 311 (see, e.g., FIG. 10, etc.) which will be described in greater detail below. According to an embodiment, the insulating material 360 may be positioned on an inner surface of the second cover 320 that covers the opening 10a of the housing 10. For example, the insulating material 360 may be positioned on an inner surface of a second panel body 321 (see, e.g., FIG. 10, etc.) which will be described in greater detail below. For example, the insulating material 360 may include various insulating materials such as polyurethane. For example, the insulating material 360 may have a flat plate shape that is parallel to the inner surface of the first cover 310 and / or the second cover 320. Accordingly, while the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 cover the opening 10a of the housing 10, heat exchange between the inside and the outside of the housing 10 may be reduced.

[0211] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a bottom view of a ventilation apparatus and enlarged views of buttons included in the ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of some portions, such as a cover, button, etc., included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a second cover slides from a first position to a second position according to various embodiments. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a second cover opens an area of an opening of a housing according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus while a first cover and a second cover open an opening of a housing according to various embodiments.

[0212] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 14, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be engaged with or separated from each other. While the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be engaged with each other. In this case, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be fixed to each other and each of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be not rotatable with respect to the housing 10. In other words, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be locked not to be rotatable with respect to the housing 10. While the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 are separated from each other, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10. In other words, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be unlocked to be respectively rotatable with respect to the housing 10.

[0213] While the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 cover the opening 10a, a gap may be formed between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. For example, a gap may be formed between one end of the first cover 310 at the side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover 310 and one end of the second cover 320 at the side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the second cover 320. In this case, the one end of the first cover 310 and the one end of the second cover 320 may be engaged with each other to cover the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. Accordingly, while the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 cover the opening 10a, heat exchange between the inside and the outside of the ventilation apparatus 1 through the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be reduced and / or prevented and inflow of moisture or foreign substances to the inside of the housing 10 through the gap may be reduced and / or prevented.

[0214] According to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may slide with respect to the housing 10. The second cover 320 may slide between a first position and a second position with respect to the housing 10. The first position of the second cover 320 may be a position at which the second cover 320 is engaged with the first cover 310 while the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a. While the second cover 320 is located at the first position, the second cover 320 may be locked by the first cover 310. The second position of the second cover 320 may be a position at which the second cover 320 is separated from the first cover 310 while the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a. While the second cover 320 is located at the second position, the second cover 320 may be unlocked with respect to the first cover 310. While the second cover 320 is located at the second position, each of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10.

[0215] For example, a direction in which the second cover 320 slides between the first position and the second position may be parallel to a direction in which the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 are arranged with respect to each other. For example, the direction in which the second cover 320 slides between the first position and the second position may be a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction (or the direction of a second cover shaft 326 (see, e.g., FIG. 17)) of the rotation shaft of the second cover 320. For example, the direction in which the second cover 320 slides between the first position and the second position may be a direction that is parallel to the opening 10a. For example, the direction in which the second cover 320 slides between the first position and the second position may be substantially parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0216] While the second cover 320 slides between the first position and the second position, the rotation shaft of the second cover 320 may slide with respect to the housing 10. The second cover support 325 may be slidably coupled to the housing 10.

[0217] While the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 cover the opening 10a and the second cover 320 is located at the first position, the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be engaged with each other and fixed to each other and the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be covered. While the second cover 320 is located at the second position, each of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10, and a user may access the inside of the housing 10 by opening the first cover 310 and / or the second cover 320.

[0218] Hereinafter, a structure of each of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 and a process of opening the opening 10a will be described in greater detail.

[0219] According to an embodiment, the first cover 310 may include the first panel body 311. The first panel body 311 may cover the first area of the opening 10a. The first panel body 311 may form an entire appearance of the first cover 310. For example, the first panel body 311 may have a substantially flat plate shape.

[0220] The first panel body 311 may be connected to the first cover support 315 described above. For example, the first cover support 315 may be connected to an inner surface of the first panel body 311. The first cover support 315 may be integrated into the first panel body 311. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first cover support 315 may be connected to the first panel body 311 as a component that is distinct from the first panel body 311. The first panel body 311 may be rotatably supported on the housing 10 by the first cover support 315. The first panel body 311 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10 by the first cover support 315.

[0221] According to an embodiment, the first panel body 311 may be fixed to the housing 10 while covering the first area of the opening 10a.

[0222] For example, the first panel body 311 may include a hook h protruding from the inner surface of the first panel body 311. While the first panel body 311 covers the first area of the opening 10a, the hook h may be coupled to the housing 10 (e.g., the housing body 15) by being hooked to the housing 10.

[0223] For example, the housing 10 may include a first cover locking portion 17a. For example, the first cover locking portion 17a may be provided on the electrical part frame 17. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first cover locking portion 17a may be provided at various locations of the housing 10. The first cover 310 may include a cover protrusion 312 protruding from the first panel body 311. For example, the cover protrusion 312 may protrude from the inner surface of the first panel body 311 facing the opening 10a. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cover protrusion 312 may be provided at various locations of the first cover 310. The cover protrusion 312 may be inserted into the first cover locking portion 17a, and the first cover locking portion 17a may fix or release the first cover locking portion 17a. While the cover protrusion 312 is fixed to the first cover locking portion 17a, the first cover 310 may be fixed to the housing 10, and while the cover protrusion 312 is released from the first cover locking portion 17a, the first cover 310 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10.

[0224] According to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may include a second panel body 321. The second panel body 321 may cover the second area of the opening 10a. The second panel body 321 may form an entire appearance of the second cover 320. For example, the second panel body 321 may have a substantially flat plate shape.

[0225] The second panel body 321 may be connected to the second cover support 325 described above. For example, the second cover support 325 may be connected to an inner surface of the second panel body 321. The second cover support 325 may be integrated into the second panel body 321. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second cover support 325 may be connected to the second panel body 321 as a component that is distinct from the second panel body 321. The second panel body 321 may be rotatably supported on the housing 10 by the second cover support 325. The second panel body 321 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10 by the second cover support 325. The second panel body 321 may be slidably coupled to the housing 10 by the second cover support 325.

[0226] According to an embodiment, while the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a and is located at the first position, one end of the first panel body 311 may be engaged with one end of the second panel body 321. For example, one end of the first panel body 311 at the side (for example, a side that is opposite to the first cover support 315 or a side that is opposite to a first cover shaft 316 (see, e.g., FIG. 20)) that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover 310 may be engaged with one end of the second panel body 321 at the side (e.g., a side that is opposite to the second cover support 325, or a side that is opposite to a second cover shaft 326 (see, e.g., FIG. 17)) that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the second cover 320.

[0227] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 1 may include a button 323. The button 323 may release engagement between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. The button 323 may separate the second cover 320 from the first cover 310. The button 323 may unlock the second cover 320 with respect to the first cover 310. The button 323 may move the second cover 320 from the first position to the second position. The button 323 may be pressed from the outside, and while the button 323 is pressed, engagement between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be released.

[0228] According to an embodiment, the button 323 may be included in the second cover 320. The button 323 may be mounted on the second panel body 321. At least a portion of the button 323 may protrude outward from the second panel body 321. For example, the second panel body 321 may be provided with a button hole 321d, and the button 323 may pass through the button hole 321d. Accordingly, the button 323 may be pressed from the outside of the second panel body 321.

[0229] The button 323 may be movable with respect to the second panel body 321. While the button 323 is pressed from the outside of the second panel body 321 toward the inside of the second panel body 321, the button 323 may move toward the inside of the second panel body 321. While the button 323 moves toward the inside of the second panel body 321, engagement between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be released. When an external force applied to the button 323 from the outside of the second panel body 321 is reduced or eliminated, the button 323 may move outward from the second panel body 321 through the button hole 321d.

[0230] As shown in FIG. 10, according to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may include a plurality of buttons 323A and 323B. A user or operator may simultaneously press the plurality of buttons 323A and 323B to more efficiently release engagement between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the engagement between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be released even when the user or operator presses only one of the plurality of buttons 323A and 323B.

[0231] According to an embodiment, the button 323 may be provided on the second cover 320, and a user or operator may slide and rotate the second cover 320 while pressing the button 323 provided on the second cover 320. Accordingly, the process of opening the second cover 320 may be performed more efficiently, and convenience for the user or operator may be improved. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and according to an embodiment, the button 323 may be provided on the first cover 310.

[0232] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, while the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a and is located at the first position, the first cover 310 may be engaged with the second cover 320. At this time, the opening 10a of the housing 10 may be closed by the first cover 310 and the second cover 320, and the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may also be covered.

[0233] As shown in FIG. 12, while the button 323 is pressed, the second cover 320 may move from the first position to the second position and be separated from the first cover 310. The second cover 320, which has moved to the second position, may rotate with respect to the housing 10 and open the second area of the opening 10a as shown in FIG. 13, and similarly, the first cover 310 may rotate with respect to the housing 10 and open the first area of the opening 10a as shown in FIG. 14.

[0234] To close the opening 10a, by rotating the first cover 310 to cover the first area of the opening 10a, rotating the second cover 320 located at the second position to cover the second area of the opening 10a, and then sliding the second cover 320 from the second position to the first position to be engaged with the first cover 310, the opening 10a may be covered by the first cover 310 and the second cover 320.

[0235] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus are engaged with each other according to various embodiments. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus are separated from each other according to various embodiments.

[0236] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the second cover 320 of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may move between the first position (FIG. 15) of being engaged with the first cover 310 and the second position (FIG. 16) of being separated from the first cover 310.

[0237] According to an embodiment, the first cover 310 may include a cover groove 311a. The cover groove 311a may have a shape that is concavely recessed from an outer surface of the first cover 310.

[0238] The cover groove 311a may be provided at one end of the first cover 310 in the side that is opposite the rotation shaft of the first cover 310. For example, the cover groove 311a may be recessed from one end of the first panel body 311 in the side that is opposite the rotation axis of the first cover 310.

[0239] According to an embodiment, the first cover 310 may include a first groove wall 311b, a second groove wall 311c, and a third groove wall 311d forming the cover groove 311a. The cover groove 311a may be formed between the first groove wall 311b, the second groove wall 311c, and the third groove wall 311d. For example, the first groove wall 311b, the second groove wall 311c, and the third groove wall 311d may be provided at one end of the first panel body 311 in the side that is opposite to the rotational shaft of the first cover 310.

[0240] The first groove wall 311b and the second groove wall 311c may face each other, and the third groove wall 311d may connect the first groove wall 311b with the second groove wall 311c. The first groove wall 311b may extend from one end of a side (e.g., an outer surface side or a downward (-Z direction) side) of the third groove wall 311d that is opposite to the opening 10a. The second groove wall 311c may extend from one end of a side (e.g., an inner surface side or an upward (+Z direction) side) of the third groove wall 311d that is adjacent to the opening 10a. For example, the second groove wall 311c may face the opening 10a.

[0241] For example, the first groove wall 311b and the second groove wall 311c may extend from both ends of the third groove wall 311d toward the side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover 310. For example, a length by which the second groove wall 311c extends from the third groove wall 311d may be longer than a length by which the first groove wall 311b extends from the third groove wall 311d.

[0242] For example, the first groove wall 311b may be substantially parallel to the second groove wall 311c.

[0243] According to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may include an insertion portion 321a. The insertion portion 321a may be insertable into the cover groove 311a. While the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a and is located at the first position, the insertion portion 321a may be inserted into the cover groove 311a. While the second cover 320 moves from the first position to the second position, the insertion portion 321a may depart from the cover groove 311a.

[0244] The cover groove 311a may be provided at one end of the first cover 310 in the side that is opposite the rotation shaft of the first cover 310. For example, the cover groove 311a may be recessed from one end of the first panel body 311 in the side that is opposite the rotation shaft of the first cover 310.

[0245] While the first cover 310 covers the first area of the opening 10a and the second cover 320 covers the second area of the opening 10a and is located at the first position, the insertion portion 321a may be engaged with the cover groove 311a. For example, the insertion portion 321a may be engaged with the cover groove 311a by being surrounded by the first groove wall 311b, the second groove wall 311c, and the third groove wall 311d. The first groove wall 311b and the second groove wall 311c may cover the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320. For example, the first groove wall 311b may cover the insertion portion 321a inserted into the cover groove 311a in an outward direction (e.g., in the downward direction (-Z direction)), and the second groove wall 311c may cover the insertion portion 321a inserted into the cover groove 311a in an inward direction (e.g., the upward direction (+Z direction)), thereby covering the gap.

[0246] According to an embodiment, the insertion portion 321a may include a guide surface 321b that guides the insertion portion 321a to be inserted into the cover groove 311a. The guide surface 321b may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the insertion portion 321a slides to be inserted into the cover groove 311a such that a width of the insertion portion 321a decreases toward the sliding direction of the insertion portion 321a.

[0247] According to an embodiment, the cover groove 311a may extend along a direction in which the rotation shaft of the first cover 310 extends. For example, the cover groove 311a may extend along one end of the first cover 310 in the side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover 310. The insertion portion 321a may extend along a direction in which the rotation shaft of the second cover 320 extends. For example, the insertion portion 321a may extend along one end of the second cover 320 in the side that is opposite the rotation shaft of the second cover 320.

[0248] Due to the structures of the cover groove 311a of the first cover 310 and the insertion portion 321a of the second cover 320, while the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 cover the opening 10a of the housing 10, heat exchange between the inside and the outside of the housing 10 through the gap between the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be reduced to improve insulation performance and / or moisture or foreign substances may be prevented / limited from entering the inside of the housing 10 through the gap.

[0249] An example embodiment in which the cover groove 311a is provided in the first cover 310 and the insertion portion 321a is provided in the second cover 320 has been described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments, a cover groove may be provided in the second cover 320, and an insertion portion that is insertable into the cover groove of the second cover 320 may be provided in the first cover 310.

[0250] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover is located at a first position according to various embodiments. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover is located at a second position according to various embodiments. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a second cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the second cover opens an opening of the housing according to various embodiments. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a first cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the first cover covers an opening of the housing according to various embodiments. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a first cover included in a ventilation apparatus while the first cover opens an opening of the housing according to various embodiments.

[0251] Referring to FIGS. 17 to 20, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10 and the second cover 320 may slide with respect to the housing 10.

[0252] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the second cover 320 may include the second cover support 325. The second cover support 325 may include the second cover shaft 326 that rotatably supports the second panel body 321 with respect to the housing 10. The second cover support 325 may include a second shaft connecting portion 327 that connects the second panel body 321 to the second cover shaft 326. For example, the second cover shaft 326, the second shaft connecting portion 327, and the second panel body 321 may be integrated into one body, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0253] The second cover 320 may have a central axis of the second cover shaft 326 as a rotation axis a2 with respect to the housing 10. The rotation axis a2 of the second cover 320 with respect to the housing 10 may pass through the second cover shaft 326. For example, the second cover shaft 326 may have a shape of a pole that extends along an extension direction of the rotation axis a2 of the second cover 320.

[0254] The second cover shaft 326 may be coupled to the second cover coupling portion 15b of the housing 10. The second cover shaft 326 may be coupled to the second cover coupling portion 15b to rotatably support the second panel body 321. For example, the second cover shaft 326 may be rotatably coupled to the second cover coupling portion 15b. The second cover shaft 326 may be coupled to the second cover coupling portion 15b to slidably support the second panel body 321. The second cover shaft 326 may be slidably coupled to the second cover coupling portion 15b.

[0255] According to an embodiment, the second cover coupling portion 15b may include a second shaft hole 15hb. The second cover shaft 326 may be inserted into the second cover coupling portion 15b through the second shaft hole 15hb.

[0256] The second cover shaft 326 may slidably move within the second shaft hole 15hb. For example, the second shaft hole 15hb may include a slot hole. Based on a sliding movement direction of the second cover shaft 326, a length of the slot hole may be longer than a length (e.g., diameter) of the second cover shaft 326.

[0257] With this structure, the second cover shaft 326 may slidably move with respect to the housing 10. The rotation axis a2 of the second cover 320 may slidably move with respect to the housing 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, while the second cover 320 moves from the first position to the second position, the rotation axis a2 of the second cover 320 may move away from a rotation axis a1 (see FIG. 20) of the first cover 310, and then, as shown in FIG. 19, the second cover 320 may rotate around the rotation axis a2. While the second cover 320 moves from the second position to the first position, the rotation axis a2 of the second cover 320 may move toward the rotation axis a1 of the first cover 310, and then, the second cover 320 may be engaged with the first cover 310 and may not rotate.

[0258] According to an embodiment, the second cover coupling portion 15b may include a locking projection 15s configured to catch the second cover shaft 326. The locking projection 15s may protrude from an edge of the second shaft hole 15hb toward inside of the second shaft hole 15hb. For example, the locking projection 15s may protrude upward (in the +Z direction) from a lower edge of the second shaft hole 15hb. The locking projection 15s may be located between a position of the second cover shaft 326 while the second cover 320 is located at the first position and a position of the second cover shaft 326 while the second cover 320 is located at the second position. Accordingly, while the second cover 320 is located at the first position, the second cover shaft 326 may be caught by the locking projection 15s and thus, the second cover 320 may be prevented / blocked from moving to the second position unless a sufficient external force is applied. When a certain amount of external force or more is applied to the second cover 320, the second cover shaft 326 may climb over the locking projection 15s, and the second cover 320 may move to the second position. Therefore, a case where the second cover 320 opens unintentionally by moving to the second position may be more effectively prevented / limited.

[0259] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the first cover 310 may include the first cover support 315. The first cover support 315 may include the first cover shaft 316 that rotatably supports the first panel body 311 with respect to the housing 10. The first cover support 315 may include a first shaft connecting portion 317 that connects the first panel body 311 to the first cover shaft 316. For example, the first cover shaft 316, the first shaft connecting portion 317, and the first panel body 311 may be integrated into one body. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0260] The first cover 310 may have a central axis of the first cover shaft 316 as the rotation axis a1 with respect to the housing 10. The rotation axis a1 of the first cover 310 with respect to the housing 10 may pass through the first cover shaft 316. For example, the first cover shaft 316 may have a shape of a pole that extends along an extension direction of the rotation axis a1 of the first cover 310.

[0261] The first cover shaft 316 may be coupled to the first cover coupling portion 15a of the housing 10. The first cover shaft 316 may be coupled to the first cover coupling portion 15a to rotatably support the first panel body 311. For example, the first cover shaft 316 may be rotatably coupled to the first cover coupling portion 15a.

[0262] According to an embodiment, the first cover coupling portion 15a may include a first shaft hole 15ha. The first cover shaft 316 may be inserted into the first cover coupling portion 15a through the first shaft hole 15ha.

[0263] According to an embodiment, a length of the first shaft hole (15ha) may be substantially the same as a length (e.g., diameter) of the first cover shaft 316 based on a sliding movement direction of the first cover shaft 316. According to an embodiment, the first cover 310 may only be rotatable with respect to the housing 10 and may not be able to slide with respect to the housing 10. Accordingly, a user or operator may engage or disengage the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 only by moving the second cover 320 between the first position and the second position, thereby improving convenience of operation.

[0264] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, the first cover 310 may be slidably movable with respect to the housing 10. In an embodiment in which both the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 are slidably movable with respect to the housing 10, a user or operator may appropriately select and slide either the first cover 310 or the second cover 320 depending on a situation.

[0265] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing various components, such as a button of a second cover, a lever, and a first cover, included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing various components, such as a button of a second cover, a lever, and a first cover, included in a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0266] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the ventilation apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a lever 322. While the lever 322 rotates, the lever 322 may separate the second cover 320 from the first cover 310.

[0267] According to an embodiment, the lever 322 may be included in the second cover 320. The lever 322 may be rotatable with respect to the second panel body 321. For example, the lever 322 may rotate on a lever shaft 322a fixed to the second panel body 321.

[0268] According to an embodiment, the lever 322 may be connected to the button 323 described above. For example, the lever 322 may be coupled to the button 323. Alternatively, for example, the lever 322 may extend from the button 323. The lever 322 may be disposed inside the second panel body 321, and the button 323 may protrude outwardly from the second panel body 321. The button 323 may be pressed from the outside of the second panel body 321. While the button 323 is pressed, the lever 322 may rotate on the lever shaft 322a.

[0269] While the lever 322 rotates with respect to the second panel body 321, the lever 322 may press the first cover 310. That is, while the button 323 is pressed, the lever 322 may press the first cover 310. While the lever 322 presses the first cover 310, the second cover 320 may be separated from the first cover 310 by a reaction and may move from the first position to the second position.

[0270] The lever 322 may include a pressing portion 322b for pressing the first cover 310. The pressing portion 322b may press the first cover 310 while rotating on the lever shaft 322a. For example, the pressing portion 322b may press one end of the first cover 310 at the side that is opposite the rotational shaft of the first cover 310. For example, the pressing portion 322b may be provided at one side of the lever 322 which is opposite to another side of the lever 322 connected to the button 323.

[0271] For example, while the lever 322 rotates with respect to the second panel body 321, the lever 322 may press the cover protrusion 312 formed at one end of the first cover 310.

[0272] According to an embodiment, the second cover 320 may include a lever hole 321c. The lever hole 321c may be formed at one end of the second panel body 321 in the side of the second cover 310 that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the second cover 320. For example, while the lever 322 rotates to press the first cover 310, the pressing portion 322b may approach the lever hole 321c.

[0273] For example, while the first cover 310 is engaged with the second cover 320 (for example, while the second cover 320 is located at the second position), the cover protrusion 312 may pass through the lever hole 321c. The cover protrusion 312 may be engaged with the second panel body 321 by passing through the lever hole 321c. While the lever 322 rotates with respect to the second panel body 321, the pressing portion 322b may press the cover protrusion 312 to cause the cover protrusion 312 to depart from the lever hole 321c. While the pressing portion 322b presses the cover protrusion 312, the second cover 320 may move from the first position to the second position and the pressing portion 322b may depart from the lever hole 321c.

[0274] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in various embodiments, while the lever 322 rotates, the pressing portion 322b may pass through the lever hole 321c and press a part (e.g., the cover protrusion 312) of the first cover 310 that is adjacent to the lever hole 321c.

[0275] According to an embodiment, the lever 322 may include an elastic deformation portion 322c. The second panel body 321 may include a lever support portion 321e that supports the elastic deformation portion 322c. The elastic deformation portion 322c may have one end in contact with the lever support portion 321e and while the lever 322 rotates, the elastic deformation portion 322c may be elastically deformed or restored. For example, while the button 323 is pressed and the lever 322 rotates, as shown in FIG. 23, the elastic deformation portion 322c may be pressed by the lever support portion 321e and a degree of deformation may increase. In this process, an elastic force may be accumulated in the elastic deformation portion 322c. When an external force applied to the button 323 is reduced or disappears, a shape of the elastic deformation portion 322c may be restored by the elastic force accumulated in the elastic deformation part 322c, and while the shape of the elastic deformation portion 322a is restored, the elastic deformation portion 322c may be supported by the lever support portion 321e, and thus, the lever 322 and button 323 may move to original positions.

[0276] An example in which the lever 322 and the button 323 are included in the second cover 320 has been described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments, the lever 322 and / or the button 323 may be provided in the first cover 310.

[0277] An example having a structure in which the lever 322 is connected to the button 323 positioned on an outer side of the second panel body 321 and the lever 322 rotates depending on whether the button 323 is physically pressed has been described. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments, the lever 322 may be rotatable by an electric driving device such as a motor. In this case, the button may include various buttons, such as a physical button, an electronic button, etc., which are configured to receive a signal for sliding the second cover 320 to the second position for a motor driver.

[0278] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a front view of a ventilation apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0279] In the following descriptions about components of a ventilation apparatus 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure given with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, components corresponding to those of the ventilation apparatus 1 according to the examples described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 23 will be assigned like reference numerals, and the corresponding descriptions may not be repeated here.

[0280] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, the ventilation apparatus 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing 10 of which both sides open. For example, the housing 10 may include a first opening and a second opening that face each other. The first opening may be the opening 10a that is opened or covered by the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 in the example described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 23.

[0281] According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 5 may include, in addition to the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 that open or cover the first opening, a third cover 330 and a fourth cover 340 that open or cover the second opening.

[0282] The third cover 330 may open or cover a first area of the second opening of the housing 10. The third cover 330 may include a third panel body 331 that opens or covers the first area of the second opening of the housing 10. The fourth cover 340 may open or cover a second area of the second opening of the housing 10. The fourth cover 340 may include a fourth panel body 341 that opens or covers a second area of the second opening of the housing 10.

[0283] Each of the first cover 330 and the fourth cover 340 may be rotatable with respect to the housing 10. The third cover 330 may be rotatably coupled to a third cover coupling portion 15c of the housing 10. The fourth cover 340 may be rotatably coupled to a fourth cover coupling portion 15d of the housing 10.

[0284] The fourth cover 340 may be slidingly movable with respect to the housing 10. The fourth cover 340 may be coupled to the fourth cover coupling portion 15d in such a way as to be slidingly movable with respect to the fourth cover coupling portion 15d. While the third cover 330 covers the first area of the second opening and the fourth cover 340 covers the second area of the second opening, the fourth cover 340 may be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the third cover 330 and a second position of being separated from the third cover 330 to be rotatable with respect to the housing 10.

[0285] For example, the fourth cover 340 may include a button 343. The button 343 may protrude outward from the fourth panel body 341. While the button 343 is pressed, the fourth cover 340 may slide from the first position to the second position.

[0286] A structure and characteristics of the third cover 330 may correspond to those of the first cover 310, and therefore, detailed descriptions thereof may not be repeated here. A structure and characteristics of the fourth cover 340 may correspond to those of the second cover 320, and therefore, detailed descriptions thereof may not be repeated here.

[0287] In an embodiment in which both sides of the housing 10 open and the covers 310, 320, 330, and 340 open or cover the open sides, the ventilation apparatus 5 may be designed such that the first cover 310 and the second cover 320 face downward (-Z direction) or the third cover 330 and the fourth cover 340 face downward (-Z direction) according to an installation environment. That is, the ventilation apparatus 5 may be designed to be installed in various installation environments. According to an embodiment, the ventilation apparatus 5 may have a structure that is substantially symmetrical in the vertical direction (Z direction) with respect to a center line L of FIG. 25.

[0288] In FIGS. 24 and 25, an embodiment in which the first cover 310 and the third cover 330 face each other in the vertical direction (Z direction) and the second cover 320 and the fourth cover 340 face each other in the vertical direction (Z direction) is shown. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first cover 310 and the fourth cover 340 may face each other in the vertical direction (Z direction) and the second cover 320 and the third cover 330 may face each other in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0289] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a ventilation apparatus may include a housing including an opening at one side, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a first area of the opening, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a second area of the opening. The second cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the first cover while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening, and a second position of being separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

[0290] While the second cover slidingly moves between the first position and the second position, a rotation shaft of the second cover may slidingly move with respect to the housing.

[0291] While the second cover moves from the first position to the second position, the rotation shaft of the second cover may move away from a rotation shaft of the first cover. While the second cover moves from the second position to the first position, the rotation shaft of the second cover may move toward the rotation shaft of the first cover.

[0292] The second cover may further include a panel body configured to cover the second area of the opening, and a cover shaft rotatably supporting the panel body with respect to the housing. The cover shaft may be configured to slidingly move with respect to the housing.

[0293] The housing may include a slot hole to which the cover shaft is coupled. The cover shaft may be slidingly movable within the slot hole.

[0294] The first cover may include a cover groove. The second cover may include an insertion portion configured to be inserted into the cover groove while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening and is located at the first position.

[0295] The cover groove may be provided at one end of the first cover in a side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover. The insertion portion may be provided at one end of the second cover in a side that is opposite to the rotation shaft of the second cover.

[0296] The cover groove may extend along a direction in which a rotation shaft of the first cover extends. The insertion portion may extend along a direction in which a rotation shaft of the second cover extends.

[0297] The first cover may include a first groove wall, a second groove wall facing the first groove wall, and a third groove wall connecting the first groove wall with the second groove wall. The cover groove may be formed between the first groove wall, the second groove wall, and the third groove wall. While the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening and is located at the first position, the first groove wall and the second groove wall may be configured to cover a gap between the first cover and the second cover.

[0298] The second cover may include a panel body configured to cover the second area of the opening, and a lever configured to be rotatable with respect to the panel body. The lever may be configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the first cover to move the second cover from the first position to the second position.

[0299] The first cover may include a cover protrusion formed at one end of the first cover in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the first cover. The lever may be configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the cover protrusion.

[0300] The second cover may further include a lever hole formed at one end of the panel body in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the second cover. The cover protrusion may be configured to, while the first cover is engaged with the second cover, be engaged with the panel body by passing through the lever hole. The lever may be configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the cover protrusion to cause the cover protrusion to depart from the lever hole.

[0301] The second cover may further include a button connected to the lever. The lever may be disposed inside the panel body. The button may protrude outward from the panel body.

[0302] The opening may be a first opening, and the housing may further include a second opening facing the first opening. The ventilation apparatus may further include a third cover and a fourth cover configured to open or cover the second opening.

[0303] The third cover may be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a first area of the second opening. The fourth cover may be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a second area of the second opening. The fourth cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the third cover while the third cover covers the first area of the second opening and the fourth cover covers the second area of the second opening, and a second position of being separated from the third cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

[0304] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a ventilation apparatus may include a housing including an opening at one side, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a first area of the opening, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a second area of the opening. The second cover may be slidingly movable with respect to the housing between a first position of being locked by the first cover and a second position of being unlocked from the first cover.

[0305] While the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening and is located at the first position, one end of the first cover in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the first cover may be engaged with one end of the second cover in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the second cover.

[0306] The ventilation apparatus may further include a button, and a lever configured to, while the button is pressed, rotate to separate the second cover from the first cover.

[0307] The rotation shaft of the first cover may be fixed with respect to the housing.

[0308] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a ventilation apparatus may include a housing including a first inlet through which outside air flows into the housing, a second inlet through which room air flows into the housing, a first outlet through which air flowed in through the first inlet is discharged to an indoor space, a second outlet through which air flowed in through the second inlet is discharged to an outside space, and an accommodating space with an opening at one side, a total heat exchanger positioned inside the accommodating space and configured to cause heat exchange between air flowing from the first inlet toward the first outlet and air flowing from the second inlet toward the second outlet, a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a first area of an open side of the accommodating space, and a second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open or cover a second area of the open side of the accommodating space. While the first cover covers the first area of the open side of the accommodating space and the second cover covers the second area of the open side of the accommodating space, the second cover may be configured to be slidingly movable between a first position of being engaged with the first cover and a second position of being separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

[0309] According to the present disclosure, the ventilation apparatus may adjust a temperature and humidity of air to be supplied to an indoor space by including various heat exchangers, such as a total heat exchanger, an evaporator, a condenser, etc.

[0310] According to the present disclosure, the ventilation apparatus may include a housing having an opening at one side and a cover for opening or covering the opening, thereby allowing a user or operator to easily access inside of the housing.

[0311] According to the present disclosure, the ventilation apparatus may include a first cover for opening or covering a first area of an opening of a housing and a second cover for opening or covering a second area of the opening of the housing, thereby reducing a degree of interference with objects around the ventilation apparatus while each of the covers rotates with respect to the housing.

[0312] According to the present disclosure, because a first cover and a second cover of the ventilation apparatus are engaged with each other while covering an opening of a housing, the first cover and the second cover may be stably fixed with respect to the housing.

[0313] According to the present disclosure, because a first cover and a second cover of the ventilation apparatus are engaged with each other at one ends while covering an opening of a housing, a gap between the first cover and the second cover may be sealed.

[0314] According to the present disclosure, because the ventilation apparatus includes a symmetrical structure including a housing having openings at both sides, first and second covers for opening or covering the opening at one side of the housing, and third and fourth covers for opening or covering the opening at the other side, the ventilation apparatus may be installed in various environments.

[0315] Effects that may be achieved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0316] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various example embodiments, it will be understood that the various example embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternatives and / or variations of the various example embodiments may be made without departing from the true technical spirit and full technical scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Claims

1. A ventilation apparatus comprising:a housing including an opening at one side;a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the opening; anda second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the opening,wherein the second cover is configured to be slidingly movable between:a first position engaged with the first cover while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening, anda second position separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

2. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, whereinbased on the second cover slidingly moving between the first position and the second position, a rotation shaft of the second cover is configured to slidingly move with respect to the housing.

3. The ventilation apparatus of claim 2, whereinbased on the second cover moving from the first position to the second position, the rotation shaft of the second cover is configured to move away from a rotation shaft of the first cover, andbased on the second cover moving from the second position to the first position, the rotation shaft of the second cover is configured to move toward the rotation shaft of the first cover.

4. The ventilation apparatus of claim 2, whereinthe second cover further comprises:a panel body configured to cover the second area of the opening; anda cover shaft rotatably supporting the panel body with respect to the housing, whereinthe cover shaft is configured to slidingly move with respect to the housing.

5. The ventilation apparatus of claim 4, whereinthe housing comprises a slot hole to which the cover shaft is coupled, andthe cover shaft is slidingly movable within the slot hole.

6. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe first cover comprises a cover groove, andthe second cover comprises an insertion portion configured to be inserted into the cover groove while the first cover covers the first area of the opening and the second cover covers the second area of the opening and is located at the first position.

7. The ventilation apparatus of claim 6, whereinthe cover groove is provided at one end of the first cover in a side opposite to the rotation shaft of the first cover, andthe insertion portion is provided at one end of the second cover in a side opposite to the rotation shaft of the second cover.

8. The ventilation apparatus of claim 6, whereinthe cover groove extends along a direction in which a rotation shaft of the first cover extends, andthe insertion portion extends along a direction in which a rotation shaft of the second cover extends.

9. The ventilation apparatus of claim 6, whereinthe first cover comprises:a first groove wall;a second groove wall facing the first groove wall; anda third groove wall connecting the first groove wall and the second groove wall,the cover groove formed between the first groove wall, the second groove wall, and the third groove wall, andbased on the first cover covering the first area of the opening and the second cover covering the second area of the opening and being located at the first position, the first groove wall and the second groove wall are configured to cover a gap between the first cover and the second cover.

10. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe second cover comprises:a panel body configured to cover the second area of the opening; anda lever configured to be rotatable with respect to the panel body, whereinthe lever is configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the first cover to move the second cover from the first position to the second position.

11. The ventilation apparatus of claim 10, whereinthe first cover comprises a cover protrusion formed at one end of the first cover in a side opposite to a rotation shaft of the first cover, andthe lever is configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the cover protrusion.

12. The ventilation apparatus of claim 11, whereinthe second cover further comprisesa lever hole formed at one end of the panel body in a side opposite to a rotation shaft of the second cover,the cover protrusion is configured to, while the first cover is engaged with the second cover, be engaged with the panel body by passing through the lever hole, andthe lever is configured to, while the lever rotates with respect to the panel body, press the cover protrusion to cause the cover protrusion to depart from the lever hole.

13. The ventilation apparatus of claim 10, whereinthe second cover further comprises a button connected to the lever,the lever is disposed inside the panel body, andthe button protrudes outward from the panel body.

14. The ventilation apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe opening includes a first opening, andthe housing further comprises a second opening facing the first opening,the ventilation apparatus further comprising a third cover and a fourth cover configured to open and / or cover the second opening.

15. The ventilation apparatus of claim 14, whereinthe third cover is rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the second opening,the fourth cover is rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the second opening, andthe fourth cover is configured to be slidingly movable between:a first position engaged with the third cover while the third cover covers the first area of the second opening and the fourth cover covers the second area of the second opening, anda second position separated from the third cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

16. A ventilation apparatus comprising:a housing including an opening at one side;a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of the opening; anda second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the opening,wherein the second cover is configured to be slidingly movable with respect to the housing between:a first position locked by the first cover, anda second position of being unlocked from the first cover.

17. The ventilation apparatus of claim 16, whereinbased on the first cover covering the first area of the opening and the second cover covering the second area of the opening and being located at the first position, one end of the first cover in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the first cover is engaged with one end of the second cover in a side that is opposite to a rotation shaft of the second cover.

18. The ventilation apparatus of claim 16, further comprising:a button; anda lever configured to, based on the button being pressed, rotate to separate the second cover from the first cover.

19. The ventilation apparatus of claim 16, whereina rotation shaft of the first cover may be fixed with respect to the housing.

20. A ventilation apparatus comprising:a housing including:a first inlet configured to receive outside air flowing into the housing;a second inlet configured to receive room air flowing into the housing;a first outlet configured to discharge air flowing in through the first inlet to an indoor space;a second outlet configured to discharge air flowing in through the second inlet to an outside space; andan accommodating space including an opening at one side;a heat exchanger positioned inside the accommodating space and configured to cause heat exchange between air flowing from the first inlet toward the first outlet and air flowing from the second inlet toward the second outlet;a first cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a first area of an open side of the accommodating space; anda second cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to open and / or cover a second area of the open side of the accommodating space,based on the first cover covering the first area of the open side of the accommodating space and the second cover covering the second area of the open side of the accommodating space, the second cover is configured to be slidingly movable between a first position engaged with the first cover and a second position separated from the first cover to be rotatable with respect to the housing.

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