Air conditioner and controlling method thereof

Abstract

An air conditioner according to an aspect of the disclosed invention may comprise: a compressor that compresses refrigerant; an expansion valve that expands the compressed refrigerant; and a control unit that, if an execution command for a low-power mode is received, changes the operating frequency of the compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low-power mode, changes an opening degree of the expansion valve to a temporary stabilization opening degree, and then changes the temporary stabilization opening degree to a final stabilization opening degree.

Description

Air conditioner and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner of an improved structure and a control method thereof.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space, and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0003] An air conditioner can cool or heat a space using a refrigeration cycle. An air conditioner may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and piping. A refrigerant may circulate through the piping between the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator.

[0004] Air conditioners can be divided into separate air conditioners and integrated air conditioners. Separate air conditioners may include an indoor unit located indoors and an outdoor unit located outdoors. Integrated air conditioners may have both indoor and outdoor units located within a single housing.

[0005] Integrated air conditioners can control the compressor discharge temperature to ensure stability and target temperature reliability due to rapid temperature fluctuations in the air conditioner during the cooling cycle. One example of controlling the compressor discharge temperature is by adjusting the opening of the expansion valve.

[0006] When the air conditioner changes from normal operation mode to a low-output mode, such as a windless mode or low-noise mode, which requires low compressor output, the frequency of the compressor changes relatively quickly, whereas the opening degree of the expansion valve changes relatively slowly, so it takes time to stabilize by securing the subcooling degree of the refrigerant.

[0007] During this time of stabilization, noise was generated due to the refrigerant not being stabilized.

[0008] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner capable of rapidly changing the opening of an expansion valve to reduce the time required for stabilization, thereby reducing noise generated during stabilization.

[0009] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0010] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include a compressor for compressing a refrigerant; an expansion valve for expanding the compressed refrigerant; and a control unit for, when a low-power mode execution command is received, changing an operating frequency of the compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low-power mode, changing an opening of the expansion valve to a temporary stabilization opening, and then changing the opening from the temporary stabilization opening to a final stabilization opening.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from one direction.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from another direction.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a rear view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 5 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the flow of refrigerant in an air conditioner.

[0020] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are flowcharts showing a method for controlling an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0022] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0023] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0025] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0026] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0027] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0028] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0029] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0030] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0031] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0032] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0033] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a standing air conditioner, or a system air conditioner.

[0034] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0035] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0036] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger placed in an outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in an indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe directly or indirectly connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0037] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0038] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, two-way, one-way, and duct-type types depending on how air is discharged.

[0039] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor unit can cool the room by blowing the cooled indoor air through the indoor heat exchanger. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor unit can heat the room by blowing the heated indoor air through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0040] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. For this refrigerant circulation, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in the gaseous refrigerant (hereinafter referred to as "refrigerant gas") through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0041] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the following order: compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, expansion device, and indoor heat exchanger, or in the following order: compressor, indoor heat exchanger, expansion device, and outdoor heat exchanger. The refrigerant circulation order may vary depending on the air conditioner's operating mode.

[0042] For example, if one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0043] For example, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, refrigerant may flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units may be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units may be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0044] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate simultaneously in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow switching valve, described below, and then discharged to circulate to the outdoor unit.

[0045] For example, when two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerants discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through one refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0046] Multiple outdoor units may be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into and circulated through a selectively operated outdoor unit via a flow switching valve. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant introduced into the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0047] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. For example, the expansion device may include an orifice that reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path as the refrigerant moves from upstream to downstream. The refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0048] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0049] The air conditioner may further include a refrigerant diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The refrigerant diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The refrigerant diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). For example, the refrigerant diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0050] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0051] When a mixture of liquid refrigerant (hereinafter referred to as “refrigerant liquid”) and refrigerant gas is introduced, the accumulator separates the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas and provides the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0052] An outdoor fan may be placed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0053] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor (hereinafter, referred to as the "outdoor unit sensor"). For example, the outdoor unit sensor may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include, for example, a temperature sensor for detecting air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting refrigerant temperature in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting refrigerant pressure in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0054] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal generated from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected from an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0055] The outdoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0056] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0057] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0058] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0059] The housing may include an outlet. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the outlet.

[0060] The indoor unit may include an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned on the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan to control the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0061] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and outlet.

[0062] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0063] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the outlet, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0064] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0065] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The input interface may receive user input regarding setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings).

[0066] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). The wired remote controller may receive configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. The input interface may also include an infrared sensor. The wireless remote controller may receive configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0067] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to components of the indoor unit.

[0069] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0070] For example, each sensor information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0071] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with other devices.

[0072] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0073] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0074] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0075] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to the components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0076] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0077] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0078] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0079] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0080] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0081] The processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0082] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0083] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0084] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0085] For convenience of explanation, the following description will exemplify a window-mounted air conditioner installed on a window and / or window frame. However, the contents of the present disclosure may also be applied to other types of air conditioners. For example, the contents of the present disclosure may also be applied to portable air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioners, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, and floor-mounted air conditioners.

[0086] Meanwhile, the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, referring to FIG. 1, when the air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the direction facing indoors can be defined as forward (+X direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner (3) faces outdoors can be defined as rear (-X direction). In addition, when the air conditioner (3) is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the direction facing vertically upward can be defined as upward (+Z direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner (3) faces vertically downward can be defined as downward (-Z direction). In addition, when the air conditioner (3) is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the directions parallel to the +Y direction and the -Y direction with respect to the drawings can be defined as left and right directions.

[0087] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a mounting assembly (2).

[0089] The mounting assembly (2) can be provided to mount an air conditioner (3) to be described later. The mounting assembly (2) can allow the air conditioner (3) to be mounted on the structure (A).

[0090] The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be installable on the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be mountable on the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be fixed to the structure (A).

[0091] The mounting assembly (2) may be provided to seal between the air conditioner (3) and the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided to seal between the indoor (I) and the outdoor (O).

[0092] For example, the structure (A) may include a window and / or a window frame. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure (A) may be provided in various ways depending on the type of air conditioner (3). For example, the structure (A) may include at least one of a wall, a ceiling, or a floor.

[0093] An air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an air conditioner (3).

[0094] The air conditioner (3) may be arranged to be mounted on the mounting assembly (2). The air conditioner (3) may be arranged to be mounted on the structure (A) by being mounted on the mounting assembly (2). The air conditioner (3) may be installed on the structure (A) via the mounting assembly (2). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (3) may be mounted on the structure (A) without the mounting assembly (2). For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to perform the air conditioning function without being mounted on the structure (A).

[0095] An air conditioner (3) may be provided to cool or heat a room (I). The air conditioner (3) may be provided to exchange heat between indoor air and outdoor air, respectively. Specifically, the air conditioner (3) may perform a heat exchange operation using a refrigerant cycle, and may be provided to exchange heat between indoor air and a refrigerant, or may be provided to exchange heat between outdoor air and a refrigerant. The air conditioner (3) may be provided to absorb heat from indoor air and transfer heat to outdoor air when cooling the room (I). In addition, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to transfer heat to indoor air and absorb heat from outdoor air when heating the room (I).

[0096] One part of the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to face the interior (I). Another part of the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to face the exterior (O).

[0097] The air conditioning system (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1 is merely an example of a system in which an air conditioner is installed and operates in an air conditioning system according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0098] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from one direction. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another direction. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, an air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may be provided to form the overall exterior of the air conditioner (3). The housing (10) may form at least a portion of the outer surface of the air conditioner (3). The housing (10) may be provided to accommodate various components of the air conditioner (3) therein. The housing (10) may have an approximately box shape.

[0100] For example, the housing (10) may include a front case (11). For example, the housing (10) may include a rear case (12). The front case (11) may be provided to be detachably coupleable to the rear case (12).

[0101] The front case (11) may be arranged to face the interior (see I, Fig. 1). For example, the front case (11) may be arranged to form at least a portion of the front portion of the exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0102] The rear case (12) may be arranged to face the outside (O, see FIG. 1). For example, the rear case (12) may be arranged to form at least a portion of the rear exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0103] For example, the housing (10) may include a front panel (14). The front panel (14) may form at least a portion of the front surface of the housing (10). A second discharge port (11b) described below may be formed in the front panel (14).

[0104] The front panel (14) may be covered at least in part by the discharge panel (50) described below. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 7, the front panel (14) may be substantially entirely covered by the discharge panel (50), thereby preventing the front panel (14) from being exposed to the front exterior of the air conditioner (3). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the front panel (14) may have a part thereof covered by the discharge panel (50), while another part thereof is not covered by the discharge panel (50) and is exposed to the outside, thereby forming a part of the front exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0105] For example, the housing (10) may include a top panel (15). The top panel (15) may form the upper surface of the air conditioner (3).

[0106] For example, the housing (10) may include a first side panel (16). The first side panel (16) may form the right side among the two horizontal sides (Y direction) of the air conditioner (3).

[0107] For example, the housing (10) may include a second side panel (17). The second side panel (17) may form a left side among the two horizontal sides (Y direction) of the air conditioner (3). The second side panel (17) may be provided on the opposite side of the first side panel (16).

[0108] For example, the housing (10) may include a rear panel (18). The rear panel (18) may form the rear of the air conditioner (3).

[0109] For example, the housing (10) may include a base (13). The base (13) may form a lower surface of the air conditioner (3). The base (13) may be arranged to support at least a portion of a component arranged inside the air conditioner (3).

[0110] For example, the housing (10) may include a top cover (19). For example, the top cover (19) may be provided to form a portion of the upper surface and / or a portion of the rear surface of the air conditioner (3). However, the housing (10) may not include a separate top cover (19). For example, the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the top panel (15) or as a component of the rear panel (18). For example, a portion of the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the top panel (15), and another portion of the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the rear panel (18).

[0111] For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, the front case (11) is illustrated as including a front panel (14), a top panel (15), a first side panel (16), and a second side panel (17), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the front case (11) may be formed to include only the front panel (14) and the top panel (15). For example, the front case (11) may further include other configurations in addition to the front panel (14), the top panel (15), the first side panel (16), and the second side panel (17).

[0112] For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, the rear case (12) is illustrated as including a rear panel (18), a base (13), and a top cover (19), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the rear case (12) may be formed to include only the rear panel (18). For example, the rear case (12) may further include other configurations in addition to the rear panel (18), the base (13), and the top cover (19).

[0113] The housing (10) of the air conditioner (3) described above is merely an example of a housing provided in an air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. An air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure may include a housing having various structures and shapes.

[0114] The housing (10) may include a first inlet (12a) formed to allow outdoor air to flow in. Outdoor air may flow into the interior of the housing (10) through the first inlet (12a).

[0115] The first inlet (12a) may be arranged to face the outdoors (O, see FIG. 1). The first inlet (12a) may be in communication with the outdoors (O). For example, the first inlet (12a) may be formed in the rear case (12) to allow outdoor air to flow in. For example, the first inlet (12a) may be formed in the rear panel (18). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first inlet (12a) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the outdoors (O).

[0116] The housing (10) may include a first outlet (12b) formed so that air that has exchanged heat with the first heat exchanger (40) is discharged to the outdoors (O). Outdoor air that has entered the housing (10) through the first inlet (12a) may be discharged to the outdoors (O) through the first outlet (12b) after heat exchange with the first heat exchanger (40).

[0117] The first exhaust port (12b) may be arranged to face the outdoors (O, see FIG. 1). The first exhaust port (12b) may be in communication with the outdoors (O). For example, the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in the rear case (12). For example, the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in the rear panel (18). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the outdoors (O).

[0118] The first outlet (12b) can be distinguished from the first inlet (12a). The first outlet (12b) can be formed spaced apart from the first inlet (12a).

[0119] A first flow path (P1) may be formed inside the housing (10). The first flow path (P1) may be formed such that air introduced from the outside can flow therethrough. The first flow path (P1) may be formed between the first inlet (12a) and the first outlet (12b). For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided on the first flow path (P1). For example, the first fan assembly (100) may be provided on the first flow path (P1).

[0120] The housing (10) may include a second inlet (11a) formed to allow indoor air to flow in. Indoor air may flow into the interior of the housing (10) through the second inlet (11a).

[0121] The second inlet (11a) may be arranged to face the interior (I, see FIG. 1). The second inlet (11a) may be in communication with the interior (I). For example, the second inlet (11a) may be formed in the front case (11) to allow interior air to flow in. For example, the second inlet (11a) may be formed in the second side panel (17). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second inlet (11a) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the interior (I).

[0122] The housing (10) may include a second outlet (11b) formed so that air that has exchanged heat with the second heat exchanger (60) is discharged to the outside of the housing (10). Indoor air that has been introduced into the housing (10) through the second inlet (11a) may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the second outlet (11b) after heat exchange with the second heat exchanger (60). As described below, the air discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the second outlet (11b) may be discharged to the room (I, see FIG. 1) through an opening formed in the exhaust panel (50) or a plurality of exhaust holes (50h), each having a size smaller than the opening.

[0123] The second exhaust port (11b) may be arranged to face the interior (I, see FIG. 1). The second exhaust port (11b) may be in communication with the interior (I). For example, the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in the front case (11). For example, the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in the front panel (14) and may be covered by the exhaust panel (50). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the interior (I).

[0124] The second outlet (11b) can be distinguished from the second inlet (11a). The second outlet (11b) can be formed spaced apart from the second inlet (11a).

[0125] A second flow path (P2) may be formed inside the housing (10). The second flow path (P2) may be formed to allow air introduced from the room to flow. The second flow path (P2) may be formed between the second inlet (11a) and the second outlet (11b). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided on the second flow path (P2). For example, the second fan assembly (200) may be provided on the second flow path (P2).

[0126] The first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2) may be arranged to be separated from each other. Outdoor air flowing through the first flow path (P1) and indoor air flowing through the second flow path (P2) may not mix inside the housing (10).

[0127] The air conditioner (3) may include a discharge panel (50). The discharge panel (50) may cover at least a portion of the housing (10). Specifically, the discharge panel (50) may cover a portion of the housing (10) where a second discharge port (11b) is formed. The discharge panel (50) may be arranged on one side of the second discharge port (11b). The discharge panel (50) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the second discharge port (11b).

[0128] For example, the discharge panel (50) may cover the front panel (14) in which the second discharge port (11b) is formed. The discharge panel (50) may form at least a portion of the front exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0129] The exhaust panel (50) may be arranged to discharge at least a portion of the air discharged through the second exhaust port (11b). That is, indoor air that flows into the housing (10) through the second inlet port (11a) from the indoor space (I, see FIG. 1) is heat-exchanged with the second heat exchanger (60), and then at least a portion of the heat-exchanged air may sequentially pass through the second exhaust port (11b) and the exhaust panel (50) and be discharged back into the indoor space (I).

[0130] For example, the discharge panel (50) may include a plurality of discharge holes (50h) provided to discharge air flowing from the second discharge port (11b). The plurality of discharge holes (50h) formed in the discharge panel (50) may be formed such that each discharge hole (50h) has a smaller size than the second discharge port (11b).

[0131] Alternatively, as an example, an opening may be formed in the discharge panel (50) to allow air discharged through the second discharge port (11b) to be discharged. The opening formed in the discharge panel (50) may be formed to have a size larger than each of the plurality of discharge holes (50h) described above.

[0132] The discharge panel (50) can be coupled to the housing (10). Specifically, the discharge panel (50) can be coupled to the front case (11). The discharge panel (50) can maintain a fixed position with respect to the housing (10).

[0133] The discharge panel (50) may be formed in a substantially flat plate shape. However, this is not limited to the shape, and the discharge panel (50) may be formed in various shapes.

[0134] The air conditioner (3) may include a blade (20). The blade (20) may be arranged to open or cover an opening of the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may have a shape that roughly corresponds to the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0135] The blade (20) may be arranged to cover the opening of the discharge panel (50) at a position spaced apart from the second discharge port (11b). When the blade (20) covers the opening of the discharge panel (50), it may be arranged to be approximately parallel to the discharge panel (50).

[0136] The blade (20) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the housing (10). In addition, the blade (20) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may be coupled to the housing (10).

[0137] The blade (20) may be provided to guide indoor air discharged through the opening of the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may be provided to control the discharge direction of air discharged into the room through the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0138] The blade (20) may be arranged to discharge a portion of the air discharged from the second discharge port (11b) while covering the opening of the second discharge port (11b) or the discharge panel (50). That is, after the indoor air (I, see FIG. 1) flows into the housing (10) through the second inlet port (11a) and exchanges heat with the second heat exchanger (60), a portion of the heat-exchanged air may sequentially pass through the second discharge port (11b) and the blade (20) and be discharged back into the indoor space (I).

[0139] For example, the blade (20) may include a plurality of exhaust holes (20h) provided to exhaust air flowing from the second exhaust port (11b). The plurality of exhaust holes (20h) formed in the blade (20) may be formed so that each exhaust hole (20h) has a smaller size than the second exhaust port (11b). In a state where the blade (20) covers the opening of the second exhaust port (11b) or the exhaust panel (50), a portion of the air exhausted from the second exhaust port (11b) may be exhausted through the plurality of exhaust holes (20h) of the blade (20).

[0140] An air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may operate in a windless operation mode to implement windless airflow. The windless operation mode may refer to a low-wind volume operation mode in which air is discharged at a certain speed or less without blowing air directly to a user. When the air conditioner (3) operates in the windless operation mode, air that has exchanged heat with the heat exchanger (60) may be discharged through a plurality of discharge holes (50h) of the discharge panel (50) and / or a plurality of discharge holes (20h) of the blades (20). In this case, for example, the blades (20) may be arranged to cover the openings of the discharge panel (50).

[0141] Conversely, when the blade (20) is positioned to open the opening of the discharge panel (50), most of the air that has exchanged heat with the heat exchanger (60) can be discharged through the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0142] The air conditioner (3) may include a first heat exchanger (40). The first heat exchanger (40) may be provided to exchange heat with outdoor air introduced through the first inlet (12a). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed on the first flow path (P1). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed to face the first inlet (12a). The first heat exchanger (40) may also be referred to as an 'outdoor heat exchanger' in that it exchanges heat with outdoor air.

[0143] The air conditioner (3) may include a second heat exchanger (60). The second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to exchange heat with indoor air introduced through the second inlet (11a). The second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed on the second flow path (P2). At least a portion of the second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed to face the second inlet (11a). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to surround at least a portion of the second fan assembly (200). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the second fan assembly (200). The second heat exchanger (60) may also be referred to as an 'indoor heat exchanger' in that it exchanges heat with indoor air.

[0144] For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided as a condenser, and the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided as an evaporator. In this case, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to cool the interior. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided as an evaporator, and the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided as a condenser. In this case, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to heat the interior.

[0145] The air conditioner (3) may include a drain pan (80). The drain pan (80) may be provided to collect condensate generated in the second heat exchanger (60). The drain pan (80) may be provided to support the second heat exchanger (60). The drain pan (80) may be provided to support the second fan assembly (200). For example, the drain pan (80) may include a mounting portion (81) on which the base (230) of the second fan assembly (200) is mounted.

[0146] The air conditioner (3) may include a compressor (70). The compressor (70) may be configured to compress the refrigerant for heat exchange operations by the first heat exchanger (40) and the second heat exchanger (60). The compressor (70) may be configured to compress the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure state. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor (70) may be introduced into the first heat exchanger (40) or the second heat exchanger (60).

[0147] For example, the compressor (70) may be positioned below the second fan assembly (200). For example, the compressor (70) may be positioned below the drain pan (80).

[0148] The air conditioner (3) may include a compressor cover (71). The compressor cover (71) may be provided to cover the compressor (70). The compressor cover (71) may prevent the compressor (70) from being exposed to the outside. The compressor cover (71) may be provided to protect the compressor (70).

[0149] The air conditioner (3) may include an expansion device. The expansion device may be provided to expand the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (40) or the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (60).

[0150] The air conditioner (3) may include a control box (90). The control box (90) may accommodate a printed circuit board on which various electronic components are mounted.

[0151] The air conditioner (3) may include a control panel (30). The control panel (30) may be configured to acquire user input. Alternatively, the control panel (30) may be configured to display information regarding the operation, status, various settings, indoor temperature, humidity, etc. of the air conditioner (3). The control panel (30) may be electrically connected to the control unit of the air conditioner (3). For example, the control panel (30) may be positioned at the front of the front case (11).

[0152] The air conditioner (3) may include a first fan assembly (100). The first fan assembly (100) may be configured to cause outdoor air to flow within the housing (10). The first fan assembly (100) may be configured to cause outdoor air to flow between a first inlet (12a) and a first outlet (12b).

[0153] For example, the suction side (101) of the first fan assembly (100) may be arranged to face the first inlet (12a). For example, the discharge side (102) of the first fan assembly (100) may be arranged to face the first discharge port (12b).

[0154] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first fan (110). For example, the first fan (110) may be positioned to face at least a portion of the first heat exchanger (40).

[0155] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first fan motor (120) for driving the first fan (110).

[0156] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first frame (130) configured to guide outdoor air. For example, the first frame (130) may extend along the extension direction of the first fan (110). For example, the first frame (130) may have a shape extending approximately vertically (Z direction).

[0157] The air conditioner (3) may include a second fan assembly (200). The second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to circulate indoor air within the housing (10). The second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to circulate indoor air between the second inlet (11a) and the second outlet (11b).

[0158] For example, the intake side (201) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the second inlet (11a). For example, the discharge side (202) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the second outlet (11b). For example, the discharge side (202) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the blade (20).

[0159] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second fan (210). For example, the second fan (210) may be positioned to face at least a portion of the second heat exchanger (60).

[0160] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second fan motor (220) for driving the second fan (210).

[0161] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second frame (240) configured to guide indoor air. For example, the second frame (240) may extend along the extension direction of the second fan (210). For example, the second frame (240) may have a shape extending approximately vertically (Z direction).

[0162] Referring to FIG. 7, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to be in contact. For example, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first fan (110) and the second fan (210). For example, the partition portion (132) of the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first fan (110) and the second fan (210) by being coupled to each other. For example, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2). As a result, indoor air and outdoor air may not be mixed inside the housing (10).

[0163] The configurations of the air conditioner (3) described above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7 are merely examples of the configurations provided in the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure may include various configurations.

[0164] Below, the operation of adjusting the opening of the expansion valve to stabilize the refrigerant is described.

[0165] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] The air conditioner (3) may include, in addition to the compressor (70) described above, an expansion valve (160) as an expansion device, a communication unit (140), and a control unit (150), and the control unit (150) may include at least one processor and memory.

[0167] The communication unit (140) can receive inputs regarding operation commands for the air conditioner (3) from external devices, etc. For example, a command regarding the operation mode of the air conditioner (3) can be received from a user, etc., via a remote control, etc.

[0168] The control unit (150) may include a memory (152) that stores a control program and control data for controlling the compressor (70) and the expansion valve (160), and a processor (151) that generates a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory. The memory (152) and the processor (151) may be provided integrally or separately.

[0169] The memory (152) can store programs and data for controlling the compressor (70) and expansion valve (160).

[0170] The memory (152) may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAP) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (152) may include nonvolatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0171] The processor (151) may include various logic circuits and operation circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory (152), and generate a control signal according to the processing result.

[0172] The control unit (150) can control the operating frequency of the compressor (70) and the opening degree of the expansion valve (160).

[0173] The following describes how to adjust the opening of the expansion valve (160) to stabilize the refrigerant according to the operating frequency of the compressor (70) corresponding to a specific mode.

[0174] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing the flow of refrigerant in an air conditioner, and Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing a control method of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] The opening of the expansion valve (160) can be adjusted to control the discharge temperature of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70).

[0176] When the opening of the expansion valve (160) is increased, the refrigerant that has passed through the expansion valve (160) into the evaporator (60), which is an indoor heat exchanger, is sucked into the compressor (70) without being overheated, so that the discharge temperature of the compressor (70) is lowered. That is, since the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor heat exchanger (evaporator (60)) contains a lot of liquid refrigerant components, the latent heat of the liquid refrigerant components greatly exerts a cooling effect inside the compressor (70), so that the discharge temperature of the compressor (70) is cooled.

[0177] According to these characteristics, the opening of the expansion valve (160) can be adjusted to stabilize the refrigerant.

[0178] In the past, when changing the operating mode of an air conditioner (3), it was difficult to specify the operating frequency of the compressor (70) corresponding to the corresponding mode. Accordingly, the operating frequency of the compressor (70) was changed to suit the corresponding operating mode, and the opening of the expansion valve (160) was adjusted to stabilize the refrigerant.

[0179] However, while the frequency of the compressor (70) can be changed at a rate of about 1 Hz per second, the opening of the expansion valve (160) changes at a relatively slow rate, so it took about 10 minutes to adjust the opening of the expansion valve (160) to stabilize the refrigerant.

[0180] However, in the case of an operation mode requiring low output of the compressor (70), such as a windless operation mode or a low-noise operation mode, the operating frequency of the compressor (70) is specified, so that the range of the opening amount of the expansion valve (160) to stabilize the refrigerant can be set to a certain extent.

[0181] For example, in the case of a low-noise operation mode, which is a low-power mode, the compressor (70) may be specified to operate at 22 Hz, and in the case of a low-power mode, which is a windless operation mode, the compressor (70) may be specified to operate at 24 Hz.

[0182] Accordingly, it was experimentally verified that the opening amount of the expansion valve (160) for stabilization is specified within a certain range.

[0183] Accordingly, the main technical idea of ​​the present invention is to firstly quickly change the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a temporary stabilization opening, and then secondarily change the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a final stabilization opening for final stabilization.

[0184] Accordingly, the time required for refrigerant stabilization is reduced, thereby reducing noise generated due to refrigerant instability. These features are described in detail below.

[0185] When a low-power mode execution command is received from a user or the like (1001), the control unit (150) can change the operating frequency of the compressor (70) to an operating frequency corresponding to the low-power mode (1003).

[0186] As described above, the low-power mode, low-noise operation mode and wind-free operation mode have a specific operating frequency of the compressor (70) corresponding to the corresponding mode, and the control unit (150) can operate the compressor (70) at the specific operating frequency.

[0187] In addition, the control unit (150) can change the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a temporary stabilization opening and then change it from the temporary stabilization opening to the final stabilization opening (1003).

[0188] The time for changing the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a temporary stabilization opening may be faster than the speed at which the opening of the expansion valve (160) is changed conventionally. As described above, since the range of the opening of the expansion valve (160) for stabilizing the refrigerant can be specified, for example, the opening corresponding to the average value of the range can be set as the temporary stabilization opening and the opening of the expansion valve (160) can be immediately changed to the temporary stabilization opening.

[0189] Below, the process of changing the opening of the expansion valve (160) from the temporary stabilization opening to the final stabilization opening is described.

[0190] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] When a low power mode execution command is received from a user, etc., the control unit (150) can change the operating frequency of the compressor (70) and change the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a temporary stabilization opening (1101).

[0192] The air conditioner (3) may further include a temperature sensor (145) that detects the discharge temperature of the compressor (70).

[0193] The control unit (150) can compare the detected discharge temperature with the reference temperature after changing the opening of the expansion valve (160) to a temporary stabilization opening.

[0194] Here, the reference temperature is the temperature at which the refrigerant stabilizes and can be determined based on the operating frequency of the compressor (70), the ambient temperature, and a predetermined constant.

[0195] The control unit (150) can compare the detected discharge temperature with the reference temperature and change the opening degree of the expansion valve (160) according to the comparison result to control the final stable opening degree.

[0196] Here, the final stabilization opening degree may mean the opening degree of the expansion valve (160) for the discharge temperature to become equal to the reference temperature.

[0197] The control unit (150) can increase the opening of the expansion valve (160) (1105) when the discharge temperature is higher than the reference temperature (example of 1103).

[0198] Additionally, the control unit (150) can reduce the opening of the expansion valve (160) (1109) when the discharge temperature is lower than the reference temperature (example of 1107).

[0199] When the final stable opening degree at which the refrigerant can be stabilized is reached by adjusting the opening degree of the expansion valve (160), the opening degree of the expansion valve (160) can be maintained (1111).

[0200] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a compressor for compressing a refrigerant; an expansion valve for expanding the compressed refrigerant; and a control unit for, when a low-power mode execution command is received, changing an operating frequency of the compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low-power mode, changing an opening degree of the expansion valve to a temporary stabilization opening degree, and then changing the opening degree from the temporary stabilization opening degree to a final stabilization opening degree.

[0201] According to the present disclosure, the opening degree of the expansion valve can be quickly changed to reduce the time required for stabilization, thereby reducing noise generated during stabilization.

[0202] A temperature sensor for detecting a discharge temperature of the compressor is further included, and the control unit can compare the detected discharge temperature with a reference temperature after changing the opening degree of the expansion valve to the temporary stabilization opening degree.

[0203] The final stabilization opening may include an opening of the expansion valve such that the discharge temperature becomes equal to the reference temperature.

[0204] The above control unit can reduce the opening degree of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is lower than the reference temperature.

[0205] The above control unit can increase the opening degree of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is higher than the reference temperature.

[0206] The operating frequency of the compressor corresponding to the above low power mode may be 22 Hz or 24 Hz.

[0207] The above low power mode may include a low noise operation mode or a windless operation mode of the air conditioner.

[0208] The above reference temperature can be determined based on the operating frequency of the compressor, the ambient temperature, and a predetermined constant.

[0209] A control method of an air conditioner according to one embodiment may include receiving a low-power mode execution command; changing an operating frequency of a compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low-power mode; changing an opening of an expansion valve to a temporary stabilizing opening; and changing the opening of the expansion valve from the temporary stabilizing opening to a final stabilizing opening.

[0210] It may further include detecting the discharge temperature of the compressor; and comparing the detected discharge temperature with a reference temperature after changing the opening of the expansion valve to the temporary stabilization opening.

[0211] The final stabilization opening may include an opening of the expansion valve such that the discharge temperature becomes equal to the reference temperature.

[0212] Changing the opening degree of the expansion valve to the final stabilized opening degree may include reducing the opening degree of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is lower than the reference temperature.

[0213] Changing the opening of the expansion valve to the final stabilization opening may include increasing the opening of the throttle valve when the detected discharge temperature is higher than the reference temperature.

[0214] The operating frequency of the compressor corresponding to the above low power mode may be 22 Hz or 24 Hz.

[0215] The above low power mode may include a low noise operation mode or a windless operation mode of the air conditioner.

[0216] The above reference temperature can be determined based on the operating frequency of the compressor, the ambient temperature, and a predetermined constant.

[0217] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the opening degree of the expansion valve can be rapidly changed to reduce the time required for stabilization, thereby reducing noise generated during stabilization.

[0218] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0219] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0220] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A compressor that compresses the refrigerant; An expansion valve for expanding the compressed refrigerant; An air conditioner including a control unit which, when a low power mode execution command is received, changes the operating frequency of the compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low power mode, changes the opening of the expansion valve to a temporary stabilization opening, and then changes it from the temporary stabilization opening to a final stabilization opening.

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the discharge temperature of the compressor; The above control unit, An air conditioner that compares the detected discharge temperature with a reference temperature after changing the opening of the expansion valve to the temporary stabilization opening.

3. In paragraph 2, The final stabilization development above is, An air conditioner including an opening degree of the expansion valve such that the discharge temperature becomes equal to the reference temperature.

4. In paragraph 3, The above control unit, An air conditioner that reduces the opening of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is lower than the reference temperature.

5. In paragraph 3, The above control unit, An air conditioner that increases the opening of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is higher than the reference temperature.

6. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner wherein the operating frequency of the compressor corresponding to the above low output mode is 22 Hz or 24 Hz.

7. In paragraph 1, The above low power mode is, An air conditioner comprising a low-noise operation mode or a wind-free operation mode of the air conditioner.

8. In paragraph 2, The above reference temperature is, An air conditioner whose operating frequency is determined based on the operating frequency of the compressor, the ambient temperature and a predetermined constant.

9. Receive a low power mode execution command; Change the operating frequency of the compressor to an operating frequency corresponding to the low power mode; Change the opening of the expansion valve to a temporary stabilization opening; A method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising: changing the opening of the expansion valve from the temporary stabilization opening to the final stabilization opening.

10. In paragraph 9, Detecting the discharge temperature of the above compressor; A control method for an air conditioner, further comprising: comparing the sensed discharge temperature with a reference temperature after changing the opening of the expansion valve to the temporary stabilization opening.

11. In paragraph 10, The final stabilization development above is, A control method for an air conditioner including an opening degree of the expansion valve so that the discharge temperature becomes equal to the reference temperature.

12. In paragraph 11, Changing the opening of the above expansion valve to the final stable opening is as follows: An air conditioner comprising reducing the opening of the expansion valve when the detected discharge temperature is lower than the reference temperature.

13. In paragraph 11, Changing the opening of the above expansion valve to the final stable opening is as follows: An air conditioner comprising: increasing the opening of the throttle valve when the detected discharge temperature is higher than the reference temperature.

14. In paragraph 9, A control method for an air conditioner, wherein the operating frequency of the compressor corresponding to the low output mode is 22 Hz or 24 Hz.

15. In paragraph 9, The above low power mode is, A control method for an air conditioner including a low-noise operation mode or a wind-free operation mode of the air conditioner.

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