Air conditioner

Abstract

This air conditioner may comprise: a housing which has an air inlet and an air outlet; a heat exchanger in the housing; a blower in the housing, the blower being configured to move air to the heat exchanger through the air inlet and then discharge the air through the air outlet; a first motor and a second motor which are disposed in the housing; a rotating shaft which includes a first shaft connected to the first motor and a second shaft connected to the second motor; a first blade which is configured to control the direction of air moved by the blower and discharged from a first portion of the air outlet, and is arranged on a first side of the rotating shaft to receive power transmitted from the first motor; and a second blade which is configured to control the direction of air moved by the blower and discharged from a second portion of the air outlet, and is arranged on a second side of the rotating shaft to receive power transmitted from the second motor. The first motor may be arranged on a first side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft, and the second motor may be arranged on a second side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly to an air conditioner including blades.

[0002] In general, an air conditioner is a device that uses a refrigeration cycle to regulate temperature, humidity, airflow, and distribution suitable for human activity, while simultaneously removing dust and other substances from the air. The main components of the refrigeration cycle include a compressor, condenser, and evaporator.

[0003] Air conditioners can be divided into separate air conditioners, in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed separately, and integrated air conditioners, in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed together in a single cabinet. Among these, the indoor unit of a separate air conditioner includes a heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air drawn into the panel, a blower that draws indoor air into the panel and blows the drawn air back into the room, and an outlet that discharges the airflow generated by the blower.

[0004] The direction and speed of the airflow blown through the exhaust outlet not only affect the rate of temperature change in the indoor area and the temperature difference between areas, but also affect the emotions felt by the user through the airflow.

[0005] Recently, there has been a demand for air conditioners that can implement various airflow modes without significant changes in appearance and provide cooling air to the cooling space in various ways.

[0006] One aspect of the disclosure is to provide an air conditioner capable of implementing various airflow modes.

[0007] One aspect of the invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of implementing various airflow modes without significantly altering its appearance.

[0008] One aspect of the invention is that the front panel, which shares the same rotational axis as the blades, can open and close the exhaust port to implement various airflow modes, providing an air conditioner that can supply cooling air in all directions without any blind spots.

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

[0010] An air conditioner according to one aspect may include: a housing having an air intake port and an air outlet port; a heat exchanger within the housing; a blower within the housing configured to move air through the air intake port to the heat exchanger and then discharge air through the air outlet port; a first motor and a second motor disposed within the housing; a rotary shaft including a first shaft connected to the first motor and a second shaft connected to the second motor; a first blade configured to adjust a direction of air moved by the blower and discharged from a first portion of the air outlet port, the first blade being disposed on a first side of the rotary shaft and receiving power from the first motor; and a second blade configured to adjust a direction of air moved by the blower and discharged from a second portion of the air outlet port, the second blade being disposed on a second side of the rotary shaft and receiving power from the second motor. The first motor may be arranged on a first side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft, and the second motor may be arranged on a second side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft.

[0011] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a first coupling portion formed at one end of the first blade; and a second coupling portion formed at one end of the second blade, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler may be configured to be coupled to form a shaft structure having a common rotational axis through which the first blade and the second blade can rotate, and the first blade may be on a first side of the shaft structure, and the second blade may be on a second side of the shaft structure.

[0012] The first connecting portion may be formed at the upper end of the first blade, and the second connecting portion may be formed at the lower end of the second blade.

[0013] The first motor may be located on one of the left and right sides of the shaft structure, and the second motor may be located on the other of the left and right sides of the shaft structure.

[0014] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a first insertion hole formed in the first coupling portion to allow the first shaft to be inserted; and a second insertion hole formed in the second coupling portion to allow the second shaft to be inserted.

[0015] It may further include an insertion portion formed at the upper end of the first blade to be inserted into the second blade; and a receiving portion formed corresponding to the insertion portion at the lower end of the second blade to receive the insertion portion of the first blade; and the first coupling portion may include a left first coupler on the left side of the insertion portion and a right first coupler on the right side of the insertion portion, and the second coupling portion may include a left second coupler on the left side of the receiving portion and a right second coupler on the right side of the receiving portion.

[0016] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a first fixed panel disposed within the housing and to which the first motor is coupled; and a second fixed panel disposed within the housing and to which the second motor is coupled.

[0017] The second blade is a front panel of the housing configured to cover the second portion of the air outlet, and the front panel can be rotated about a common rotation axis with the blade.

[0018] The first blade and the second blade can be arranged along the left and right directions of the air outlet.

[0019] The first motor and the second motor may both be arranged on the left side of the shaft structure, or both may be arranged on the right side of the shaft structure.

[0020] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a belt connecting the second shaft and the second blade. The first motor and the second motor may be arranged along the front-rear direction of the air conditioner, the first shaft may protrude from the first motor toward the first blade, and may connect the first motor to the first blade, and the second shaft may protrude from the second motor and may be coupled to the second blade by the belt.

[0021] The first blade and the second blade may be configured to cover the air outlet together, and the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion may be positioned at the air outlet.

[0022] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include an exhaust passage formed between the blower and the air outlet to guide the movement of air from the blower to the air outlet within the housing, and the first shaft and the second shaft may be positioned in the exhaust passage.

[0023] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a controller. The controller may be configured to control the first motor and the second motor to rotate the first shaft to adjust the direction of air discharged from the first portion of the air outlet toward the bottom of the air conditioner by rotating the first blade, or to rotate the second shaft to adjust the direction of air discharged from the second portion of the air outlet toward the front or upper side of the air conditioner by rotating the second blade.

[0024] The controller may be further configured to control the first motor to rotate the first blade and to control the second blade to rotate the second blade to open the air outlet.

[0025] The above shaft structure may have a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, and the first motor may be located on the first side and the second motor may be located on the second side.

[0026] The first motor and the second motor may be configured to rotate around a common rotation axis of the first shaft and the second shaft.

[0027] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a fixed panel within the housing to which the first motor and the second motor are coupled.

[0028] An air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure may further include a controller. The controller may be configured to control the first motor and the second motor to close the air outlet, such that the first motor rotates the first blade and the second motor rotates the second blade, wherein the first blade may include a first plurality of holes formed such that air discharged from the first portion is discharged through the first plurality of holes when the air outlet is closed, and the second blade may further include a second plurality of holes formed such that air discharged from the second portion is discharged through the second plurality of holes when the air outlet is closed.

[0029] An air conditioner according to one aspect may include a housing including an outlet and a front panel configured to form a front portion, a heat exchanger accommodated within the housing, a motor disposed within the housing, a rotating shaft connected to the motor, and blades coupled to the rotating shaft and configured to open and close a portion of the outlet.

[0030] The front panel may be configured to rotate about the same axis as the blade to open and close another portion of the outlet.

[0031] An air conditioner according to one aspect may include a heat exchanger, a housing that accommodates the heat exchanger and has an outlet formed therein, a first motor and a second motor arranged within the housing, a rotary shaft connected to the first motor and the second motor, a first blade configured to control the direction of air discharged through the outlet and arranged on a lower side of the rotary shaft and connected to the first motor, and a second blade configured to control the direction of air discharged through the outlet and arranged on an upper side of the rotary shaft and connected to the second motor.

[0032] The air conditioner may include a controller configured to control the first motor to rotate the first blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the lower side of the housing, or to selectively control the second motor to rotate the second blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the front or upper side of the housing.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] Fig. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0049] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0053] Fig. 21 is a schematic diagram showing the wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0054] Fig. 22 is a schematic diagram showing the wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0055] Fig. 23 is a schematic diagram showing the wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0056] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] Fig. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0059] Fig. 27 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0060] Fig. 28 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0062] Fig. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0063] Fig. 31 is a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0064] 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 include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0065] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0069] 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).

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0081] 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. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0082] 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. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in 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.

[0083] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0084] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit 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.

[0085] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0086] 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 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-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0087] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0088] Multiple outdoor units may all 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 the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0089] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0090] 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.

[0091] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0094] An outdoor fan may be installed 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.

[0095] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit 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 a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0096] 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 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 by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0097] 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.

[0098] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0101] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0102] 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 exhaust ports.

[0103] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0104] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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 user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0107] 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). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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 the components of the indoor unit.

[0110] 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.

[0111] For example, each environmental 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.

[0112] 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 wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0126] In addition, although a wall-mounted air conditioner is described below, the present disclosure is not limited to a wall-mounted air conditioner and can be applied to various air conditioners.

[0127] In Figure 1, the X direction represents forward, the Y direction represents left, and the Z direction represents upward. However, the above directions are for convenience of explanation, and the embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to the above directions.

[0128] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0129] Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the bottom of the air conditioner illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 2 illustrates a state in which the airflow guide of the air conditioner has its outlet closed, and Figure 3 illustrates a state in which the airflow guide of the air conditioner has its outlet open.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing (10, 20), an intake port (11), and an exhaust port (12).

[0131] The housing (10, 20) can form the exterior of the air conditioner (1). An inlet (11) and an outlet (12) can be formed in the housing (10, 20). The inlet (11) and the outlet (12) can be formed on the outer surface and / or the outer wall of the housing (10, 20). For example, the inlet (11) can be formed to be open at the upper portion of the housing (10, 20), and the outlet (12) can be formed to be open at the lower portion of the housing (10, 20). A filter can be arranged in the inlet (11) to filter air flowing into the housing (10, 20). The outlet (12) can be opened so that air exits toward the front, upper portion, and / or lower portion of the air conditioner. The outlet (12) can be referred to as an opening (12) of the housing (10, 20).

[0132] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may further include an airflow guide (100). The airflow guide (100) is configured to control the direction of air moved by the blower (30) and discharged to the outlet (12). The airflow guide (100) may cover an opening of the housing (10, 20). For example, the airflow guide (100) may cover the outlet (12) of the housing (10, 20). The airflow guide (100) may cover a lower portion and / or a front portion of the housing (10, 20).

[0133] The airflow guide (100) may be positioned on the outlet (12). The airflow guide (100) may cover an opening of the housing (10, 20). For example, the airflow guide (100) may cover the outlet (12) of the housing (10, 20). The airflow guide (100) may cover a lower portion and / or a front portion of the housing (10, 20).

[0134] The airflow guide (100) can open and close the housing (10, 20). For example, the airflow guide (100) can open and close the outlet (12) of the housing (10, 20). When the airflow guide (100) opens a portion of the outlet (12), air can be discharged in a direct wind toward the outside of the housing (10, 20). By opening the outlet (12) of the airflow guide (100), air can flow toward the front, upward, and / or downward of the air conditioner.

[0135] When air is discharged in the low-speed wind mode, minimum wind volume mode, or no-wind mode in the air conditioner (1), the airflow guide (100) may have the outlet (12) closed. However, the name of the discharge method is not limited to the above-described example. Through this, the user of the air conditioner can achieve the purpose of air conditioning without being directly exposed to the wind, thereby improving user satisfaction. The airflow guide (100) may include a plurality of holes (13). In the minimum wind volume mode of the air conditioner in which the airflow guide (100) has the outlet (12) closed, air may also be discharged through the plurality of holes (13) of the airflow guide (100) (see FIG. 11).

[0136] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment, taken from the bottom. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 1 taken along line A-A'.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment, an airflow guide (100) may include blades (110, 120). The blades (110, 120) may be positioned on an outlet (12). The blades (110, 120) may cover an opening of a housing. For example, the blades (110, 120) may cover an outlet (12) of the housing. The blades (110, 120) may cover a lower portion and / or a front portion of the housing. The blades (110, 120) may include a first blade (110) and a second blade (120). The first blade (110) may be a lower blade (110), and the second blade (120) may be an upper blade (120). However, it is not limited to this, and the first blade (120) may become the upper blade (120) and the second blade (110) may become the lower blade (110).

[0138] The blades (110, 120) can open and close the housing (10, 20). For example, the blades (110, 120) can open and close the outlet (12) of the housing (10, 20). When the blades (110, 120) open a portion of the outlet (12), air can be discharged in a direct wind direction toward the outside of the housing (10, 20). By opening the outlet (12) with the blades (110, 120), air can flow toward the front, upward, and / or downward of the air conditioner.

[0139] When air is discharged in the low-speed wind mode, minimum wind volume mode, or no-wind mode in the air conditioner (1), the blades (110, 120) may have the outlet (12) closed. However, the name of the discharge method is not limited to the above-described example. Through this, the user of the air conditioner can achieve the purpose of air conditioning without being directly exposed to the wind, thereby improving user satisfaction. The blades (110, 120) may include a plurality of holes. In the minimum wind volume mode of the air conditioner where the blades (110, 120) have the outlet (12) closed, air may also be discharged through the plurality of holes of the blades (110, 120) (see FIG. 11). The plurality of holes may be distributed throughout the entire area of ​​the blades (110, 120). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the plurality of holes may be distributed in a specific area of ​​the blades (110, 120).

[0140] In an air conditioner according to one embodiment, the housing (10, 20) may include a first housing (10) and a second housing (20).

[0141] The first housing (10) may be positioned in front of the second housing (20). The first housing (10) may be referred to as a front housing (10). The first housing (10) may cover the second housing (20) and the components within the second housing (20). The first housing (10) may be referred to as a cover housing (10).

[0142] The first housing (10) may form a front portion, both side portions, and a portion of the upper and lower portions of the housing (10, 20). An outlet (12) through which air is discharged may be formed in the front portion and / or the lower portion of the first housing (10). The first housing (10) may include a front portion (10a), a lower portion (10c), and a side portion (10b). The front portion (10a), the lower portion (10c), and the side portion (10b) may cover various components of the air conditioner between the first housing (10) and the second housing (20). An outlet (12) may be formed in the front portion (10a) and the lower portion (10c) of the first housing (10). The outlet (12) may be formed by being opened in the front portion (10a) and the lower portion (10c).

[0143] The second housing (20) may be positioned at the rear of the first housing (10). The second housing (20) may be referred to as a rear housing (20). Various components of the air conditioner may be coupled to the second housing (20). The second housing (20) may support various components of the air conditioner. For example, a blower (30) and a heat exchanger (40), etc. may be coupled to the second housing (20), supported by the second housing (20), and accommodated between the first housing and the second housing. The second housing (20) may be referred to as a support housing (20).

[0144] The second housing (20) may form the rear and upper portions of the housings (10, 20). A suction port (11) may be formed on the upper surface and / or upper wall of the second housing (20). The second housing may further include a suction panel (21). A suction port (11) may be formed on the suction panel (21).

[0145] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may further include a blower (30) and a heat exchanger (40). The blower (30) and the heat exchanger (40) may be accommodated within a housing (10, 20). The blower (30) may blow air so that the air is discharged to the outside of the housing (10, 20) in a direct airflow mode or a minimum airflow mode. The heat exchanger (40) may exchange heat with air introduced into the housing (10, 20) through an inlet (11) and discharge the cooled air through an outlet (12).

[0146] The blower (30) may be placed inside the housing (10, 20). The blower (30) may be a cross-flow fan having a longitudinal direction identical to the longitudinal direction of the housing (10, 20). The blower (30) may blow air by sucking air from the intake port (11) and discharging the air through the exhaust port (12).

[0147] The heat exchanger (40) may be arranged to cover the front and upper portion of the blower (30). The heat exchanger (40) may be arranged adjacent to the blower (30). For example, the heat exchanger (40) is preferably arranged between the suction port (11) and the blower (30). Through this, external air may be sucked into the suction port (11), exchanged with the heat exchanger (40), and then discharged to the outside of the housing (10, 20) through the discharge port (12).

[0148] A drain panel (60) may be provided at the bottom of the heat exchanger (40) so that moisture condensing in the heat exchanger (40) can be collected. Although not shown, the drain panel (60) is connected to a drain hose connected to the outside of the housing (10, 20), so that moisture condensing in the heat exchanger (40) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (10, 20).

[0149] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may further include a stabilizer (50). The stabilizer (50) may include a plurality of fins (51) for guiding air laterally, a link structure (52) for rotating the plurality of fins (51), and a driving device (53) connected to the link structure (52) to rotate the plurality of fins (51). The driving device (53) may be coupled and / or fixed to the second housing (20). The plurality of fins (51) may guide air blown to the exhaust port (12) laterally by rotating left and right.

[0150] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may further include a drain panel (60).

[0151] The drain panel (60) allows moisture condensing in the heat exchanger (40) to collect at the bottom of the heat exchanger (40). The drain panel (60) is connected to a drain hose connected to the outside of the housing (10, 20), so that moisture condensing in the heat exchanger (40) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (10, 20). A stabilizer (50) that determines the blowing direction of the blower (30) may be mounted on the drain panel (60).

[0152] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may further include an exhaust passage (70). The exhaust passage (70) may guide air passing through the heat exchanger (40) and the blower (30) to the exhaust port (12). The exhaust passage (70) may be formed within the housing (10, 20). For example, the exhaust passage (70) may be formed by the exhaust passage guide (22) and the drain panel (60) of the second housing (20). The exhaust passage (70) may be arranged downstream of the blower (30), and air passing through the exhaust passage (70) may be guided to the exhaust port (12).

[0153] In an air conditioner according to one embodiment, the outlet (12) may include a first outlet (12a) and a second outlet (12b). For convenience of explanation in the disclosure, the outlet (12) is described as being divided into a first outlet (12a) and a second outlet (12b), but the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) may be connected to form a single outlet (12).

[0154] The first outlet (12a) may be positioned lower than the second outlet (12b). The first outlet (12a) may be opened and closed by the first blade (110). For example, in the general airflow mode and the downward airflow mode among the direct wind modes of the air conditioner, the first blade (110) may open the first outlet (12a) to allow air to flow out of the housing (10, 20) through the first outlet (12a) (see FIGS. 15 and 16).

[0155] The second outlet (12b) may be positioned above the first outlet (12a). The second outlet (12b) may be opened and closed by the second blade (120). For example, in the upward airflow mode and the horizontal airflow mode among the direct wind modes of the air conditioner, the second blade (120) may open the second outlet (12b) to allow air to flow out of the housing (10, 20) through the second outlet (12b) (see FIGS. 17 and 18). For example, the second blade (120) may rotate approximately 90 degrees from the position where the second outlet (12b) is closed. However, the rotation angle of the second blade (120) is not limited thereto.

[0156] Additionally, the air conditioner can have the first blade (110) open the first outlet (12a) and the second blade (120) open the second outlet (12b) at the same time, so that air is discharged upward, horizontally, and / or downward from the housing (10, 20) at the same time (see FIG. 20).

[0157] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 6, an airflow guide according to one embodiment may include a first blade (110) and a second blade (120). The first blade (110) may be positioned below the second blade (120), and the second blade (120) may be positioned above the first blade (110). The first blade (110) may be referred to as a lower blade (110), and the second blade (120) may be referred to as an upper blade (120). The number of blades is not limited to the above example, and may be provided in the amount of three or more.

[0159] An airflow guide (100) according to one embodiment may include motors (130, 140). The motors (130, 140) may further include a first motor (130) and a second motor (140). The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be coupled and / or mounted to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be motors capable of bidirectional rotation.

[0160] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged in a line. For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged in the left-right direction. Through this, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) may be rotated based on a common rotation axis.

[0161] However, the direction and position in which the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) are arranged are not limited to the above-described example. For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged only on one side of the left and right directions.

[0162] Only one motor (130, 140) may be provided. Only one motor (130, 140) may be provided to transmit power to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). One motor (130, 140) may be selectively connected to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) through an additional link device so that the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) may open and close the exhaust port (12). The controller (180) described below may control one motor (130, 140) and the link device so that the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) may operate with only one motor.

[0163] The airflow guide (100) according to one embodiment may further include a fixing panel (150). The fixing panel (150) may allow the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) to be fixed within the housing (10, 20). The fixing panel (150) may be accommodated within the housing (10, 20) and coupled with the housing (10, 20). The fixing panel (150) may be positioned adjacent to the exhaust port (12). The fixing panel (150) may be a part of the housing (10, 20) or a part of the drain panel (60). However, the fixing panel (150) may be provided separately from the drain panel (60) so that the motors (130, 140) are fixed within the housing (10, 20). In addition, the shape of the fixing panel (150) is not limited to that illustrated.

[0164] Figures 7 and 8 are exploded perspective views showing the connection relationship between the first motor (130) and the first blade (110) and the second blade (120).

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first blade (110) may include a body (111), a first connecting portion (112), a first insertion hole (113a, 113b), and an insertion portion (114). A plurality of holes (13) may be formed in the body (111) to implement a minimum airflow mode.

[0166] The first coupling portion (112) can allow the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) to be coupled. The first coupling portion (112) can be coupled to the second coupling portion (122) of the second blade (120) through the first shaft (161). For example, the first coupling portion (112) can be formed at the upper end of the body (111) of the first blade (110). In addition, for example, the first coupling portion (112) can be formed at both the left and right ends of the body (111).

[0167] The first insertion hole (113a) may be formed in the first connecting portion (112). For example, the first shaft (161) may be inserted through the first insertion hole (113a) provided on the left side of the airflow guide. Since the first shaft (161) is inserted into the first insertion hole (113a), the first blade (110) may receive driving force from the first motor (130) and rotate around the first shaft (161) as a rotation axis. The first insertion hole (113a) and the first shaft (161) may be formed correspondingly.

[0168] The insertion portion (114) may be provided between a plurality of first coupling portions (112) provided on both the left and right ends of the body (111). The insertion portion (114) may be inserted into the receiving portion (124) of the second blade (120), so that the insertion portion (114) and the receiving portion (124) may form an axial structure having a common rotational axis along which the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate (see FIGS. 7 to 20). For example, the insertion portion (114) may extend in the left-right direction. The insertion portion (114) may be formed corresponding to the receiving portion (124).

[0169] The second blade (120) may be a part of the housing (10, 20). For example, the second blade (120) may cover the second outlet (12b) as a part of the housing (10, 20). The second blade (120) may be a front panel (120) included in the housing (10, 20). The front panel (120) may form a front portion and a lower portion of the housing (10, 20). The first blade (110) may be referred to as a blade (110). The front panel (120) may rotate about the same axis as the blade (110).

[0170] The second blade (120) may include a body (121), a second connecting portion (122), a second insertion hole (123a, 123b), and a receiving portion (124).

[0171] The body (121) may include a first body portion (121a) and a second body portion (121b). The first body portion (121a) may be provided below the second body portion (121b). The first body portion (121a) may cover a second outlet (12b) formed in a portion of the lower portion of the housing (10, 20) when the second blade (120) closes the second outlet (12b). A second coupling portion (122) and a receiving portion (124) may be formed at the lower portion of the first body portion (121a). The first body portion (121a) may be arranged on the same line as the lower portion (10c) of the housing (10, 20).

[0172] The second body part (121b) may be provided on the first body part (121a). The first body part (121a) and the second body part (121b) may be connected. The second body part (121b) may cover the second outlet (12b) formed in a portion of the front part of the housing (10, 20) when the second blade (120) closes the second outlet (12b). The second body part (121b) may be arranged on the same line as the front part (10a) of the housing (10, 20).

[0173] A plurality of holes (13) can be formed in the body (121) to implement a minimum airflow mode.

[0174] The second coupling portion (122) can couple the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). The second coupling portion (122) can be coupled to the first coupling portion (112) of the first blade (110) through the first shaft (161). For example, the second coupling portion (122) can be formed at the lower end of the body (121) of the second blade (120). The second coupling portion (122) can cover the first coupling portion (112). In addition, for example, the second coupling portion (122) can be formed at both the left and right ends of the body (121).

[0175] Since the first connecting portion (112) is provided at both ends of the first blade (110) and the second connecting portion (122) is provided at both ends of the second blade (120), the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can be stably connected.

[0176] The second coupling portion (122) may include a first portion (122a) and a second portion (122b). The first portion (122a) may cover the first coupling portion (112). The first portion (122a) may surround the first coupling portion (112). The second portion (122b) may protrude from the first portion (122a) toward the motor. The second portion (122b) may form a second insertion hole (123a). The first portion (122a) may be a base (122a), and the second portion (122b) may be a protrusion (122b). The protrusion (122b) may be inserted through the fastening hole (151).

[0177] The second insertion hole (123a) is formed in the second connecting portion (122). For example, the first shaft (161) can be inserted through the second insertion hole (123a) provided on the left side of the airflow guide (100). Since the first shaft (161) is inserted into the second insertion hole (123a), the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can be coupled.

[0178] The receiving portion (124) may be provided between a plurality of second coupling portions (122) provided on both the left and right ends of the body (121). The receiving portion (124) may receive the insertion portion (114) of the first blade (110), so that the insertion portion (114) and the receiving portion (124) may form a shaft structure having a common rotational axis along which the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate. (See FIGS. 7 to 20). For example, the receiving portion (124) may extend in the left-right direction. The receiving portion (124) may be formed corresponding to the insertion portion (114).

[0179] The first motor (130) may include a motor portion (131) and a fastening portion (132). The motor portion (131) may generate power to rotate the first blade (110). The motor portion (131) may transmit power to the first blade (110) through the first shaft (161). The fastening portions (132) may be provided on both sides of the motor portion (131) to fasten the first motor (130) to the fixed panel (150).

[0180] An airflow guide according to one embodiment may include a rotating shaft (161, 162) connected to a motor (130, 140) to transmit power to the blades (110, 120).

[0181] The rotating shaft (161, 162) may further include a first shaft (161). The first shaft (161) may be connected to the first motor (130). The first shaft (161) may protrude from the motor unit (131) of the first motor (130) toward the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). The first shaft (161) may be coupled with the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). For example, the first shaft (161) may pass through the fastening hole (151) of the fixed panel (150) and be inserted into the first coupling portion (112) and the second coupling portion (122). Additionally, for example, the first shaft (161) can be inserted into the first insertion hole (113a) of the first blade (110) and mounted on the first blade (110) so that the first motor (130) transmits power to the first blade (110).

[0182] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Figs. 9 and 10 are exploded perspective views illustrating the coupling relationship between a second motor (140) and a first blade (110) and a second blade (120).

[0183] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the first coupling portion (112) can couple the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). The first coupling portion (112) can be coupled to the second coupling portion (122) of the second blade (120) through the second shaft (162).

[0184] The first insertion hole (113b) is formed in the first connecting portion (112). For example, the first insertion hole (113b) provided on the right side of the airflow guide (100) may be blocked, with a portion of the second shaft (162) inserted therein, but the second shaft (162) does not pass through it.

[0185] The second coupling part (122) can allow the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) to be coupled. The second coupling part (122) can be coupled to the first coupling part (112) of the first blade (110) through the second shaft (162).

[0186] Since the first connecting portion (112) is provided at both ends of the first blade (110) and the second connecting portion (122) is provided at both ends of the second blade (120), the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can be stably connected.

[0187] The second coupling portion (122) may include a first portion (122a) and a second portion (122b). The first portion (122a) may cover the first coupling portion (112). The second portion (122b) may protrude from the first portion (122a) toward the motor (130, 140). The second portion (122b) may form a second insertion hole (123b).

[0188] The second insertion hole (123b) is formed in the second connecting portion (122). For example, the second shaft (162) can be inserted through the second insertion hole (123b) provided on the right side of the airflow guide (100). Since the second shaft (162) is inserted into the second insertion hole (123b), the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can be coupled.

[0189] Since the second shaft (162) is inserted into the second insertion hole (123b), the second blade (120) can receive driving force from the second motor (140) and rotate around the second shaft (162) as a rotation axis. The second insertion hole (123b) and the second shaft (162) can be formed correspondingly.

[0190] The second motor (140) may include a motor portion (141) and a fastening portion (142). The motor portion (141) may generate power to rotate the second blade (120). The motor portion (141) may transmit power to the second blade (120) through the second shaft (162). The fastening portions (142) may be provided on both sides of the motor portion (141) to fasten the second motor (140) to the fixed panel (150).

[0191] The rotating shaft (161, 162) may further include a second shaft (162). The second shaft (162) may be connected to the second motor (140). The second shaft (162) may protrude from the motor unit (141) of the second motor (140) toward the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). The second shaft (162) may be coupled to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120). For example, the second shaft (162) may pass through the fastening hole (151) of the fixed panel (150) and be inserted into the first coupling portion (112) and the second coupling portion (122). Additionally, for example, the second shaft (162) may be inserted into the second insertion hole (123b) of the second blade (120) and mounted on the second blade (120) so that the second motor (140) transmits power to the second blade (120).

[0192] The first shaft (161) and the second shaft (162) can extend along the same line. Through this, they can be rotated around a common rotation axis of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120).

[0193] In the above, the upper blade is the second blade (120) and the lower blade is the first blade (110) as an example. However, the upper blade may be the first blade (120) and the lower blade may be the second blade (110). In this case, the second connecting portion (122) and the second insertion hole (123a, 123b) of the first blade (120), which is the upper blade (120), may become the first connecting portion (122) and the first insertion hole (123a, 123b), and the first connecting portion (112) and the first insertion hole (113a, 113b) of the second blade (110), which is the lower blade (110), may become the second connecting portion (112) and the second insertion hole (113a, 113b). Additionally, the first shaft (161) may be referred to as the second shaft (161), or the second shaft (162) may be referred to as the first shaft (162).

[0194] Fig. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of area B in the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 5.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 11, an airflow guide (100) according to one embodiment may cover an exhaust port (12). For example, a first blade (110) may cover a first exhaust port (12a), and a second blade (120) may cover a second exhaust port (12b).

[0196] The first blade (110) may further include an insertion portion (114). The insertion portion (114) may be inserted into the second blade (120) to allow the first blade (110) to be mounted on the second blade (120). The insertion portion (114) may be provided at the upper end of the first blade (110). The insertion portion (114) may be provided between a plurality of first coupling portions (112). The insertion portion (114) may be formed corresponding to the receiving portion (124). For example, the insertion portion (114) may include a cylindrical shape. The insertion portion (114) may extend in the left and right directions. The insertion portion (114) may be a rotation axis that serves as a rotation reference for the first blade (110) and the second blade (120).

[0197] The second blade (120) may further include a receiving portion (124). The receiving portion (124) may be provided at the lower end of the first body (121) of the second blade (120). The receiving portion (124) may allow the first blade (110) to be mounted on the second blade (120). The receiving portion (124) may be a mounting portion (124). The insertion portion (114) may be accommodated in the receiving portion (124). The receiving portion (124) may surround the insertion portion (114). The receiving portion (124) may be provided between a plurality of second coupling portions (122). The receiving portion (124) may be formed to correspond to the insertion portion (114). The receiving portion (124) may be a hollow portion (124). For example, the receiving portion (124) may include an arc shape. Since a part of the receiving portion (124) is open, the insertion portion (114) of the first blade (110) can freely rotate within the receiving portion (124), and the first blade (110) can freely adjust the direction of air discharged from the discharge port (12).

[0198] The second blade (120) may further include a stopper (126, 127). The stopper (126, 127) may be provided at the lower end of the first body (121a) of the second blade (120). The stopper (126, 127) may guide the rotational position of the first blade (110) and / or the second blade (120). For example, when the first blade (110) opens the first outlet (12a) so that the air conditioner operates in a normal airflow mode, the stopper (127) may contact the inner surface (110b, or rear surface) of the first blade (110) to guide the position of the first blade (110) (see FIG. 15). Additionally, for example, when the first blade (110) opens the first outlet (12a) so that the air conditioner operates in a downward airflow mode, the stopper (126) can guide the position of the first blade (110) by contacting the outer surface (110a, or front) of the first blade (110) (see FIG. 16).

[0199] The stoppers (126, 127) may include a first stopper (126) and a second stopper (127). The first stopper (126) and the second stopper (127) may be the first and second ends of the receiving portion (124), respectively. For example, the first stopper (126) may be provided at the lower front portion of the first body (121a) when the air conditioner is not operating or is operating in the minimum airflow mode. The first stopper (126) may contact the outer surface (110a, or front) of the first blade (110) in the downward airflow mode to guide the position (P3) of the first blade (110) (see FIG. 17). For example, the second stopper (127) may be provided at the lower rear portion of the first body (121a) when the air conditioner is not operating or is operating in the minimum airflow mode. The second stopper (127) can guide (P2) the position of the first blade (110) by contacting the inner surface (110b, or rear surface) of the first blade (110) in the normal airflow mode (see FIG. 15).

[0200] For example, the first stopper (126) and the second stopper (127) may be arranged in the front-back direction while the air conditioner is not operating or is operating in the minimum airflow mode. Also, for example, the first stopper (126) and the second stopper (127) may be arranged in the up-down direction while the air conditioner is operating in the horizontal airflow mode.

[0201] The second blade (120) may be a front panel (120) that is part of the housing (10, 20). The first blade (110) may be a blade (110). The front panel (120) may rotate around the same rotational axis as the blade (110). For example, the rotational axis of the blade (110) may be located at the top of the blade (110), so that the blade (110) may rotate around the top. The rotational axis of the blade (110) may be the insertion portion (114). In addition, the rotational axis of the front panel (120) may be located at the bottom of the front panel (120), so that the front panel (120) may rotate around the bottom. The rotational axis of the front panel (120) may be the receiving portion (124). The blade (110) can open and close a portion of the exhaust port (12), and the front panel (120) can open and close another portion of the exhaust port (12). For example, the blade (110) can open and close the first exhaust port (12a), and the front panel (120) can open and close the second exhaust port (12b).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) can rotate the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) using the insertion portion (114) extending in the left and right directions as a rotation axis. The first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate based on a common rotation axis. For example, the first shaft (161) and the second shaft (162) can be arranged on the same line. The first motor (130), the second motor (140), the first shaft (161), and the second shaft (162) can be arranged on the outer line of the housing (10, 20). For example, the first motor (130), the second motor (140), the first shaft (161), and the second shaft (162) can be positioned on the discharge port (12) so that the exterior of the first housing (10) does not protrude or sink. For example, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can cover the discharge port (12), and the first coupling part (112) and the second coupling part (122) can be positioned on the discharge port (12). Through this, an air conditioner that can implement various airflow modes without a large deformation of the exterior of the air conditioner can be provided, and the appearance can be prevented from being damaged.

[0203] However, the arrangement positions of the first motor (130), the second motor (140), the first shaft (161), and the second shaft (162) are not limited to the above-described examples. For example, the first motor (130), the second motor (140), the first shaft (161), and the second shaft (162) may be arranged inside the housing (10, 20). Accordingly, the common rotation axis of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) may also be arranged inside the housing.

[0204] For example, the first motor (130), the second motor (140), the first shaft (161), and the second shaft (162) may be positioned on the exhaust passage (70) adjacent to the blower (30) and the heat exchanger (40). For example, the common rotation axis of the first blade and the second blade may be positioned on the exhaust passage (70) inside the housing (10, 20). At this time, the power generated from the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be transmitted to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) through a separate link device or belt device.

[0205] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, in an air conditioner according to one embodiment, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate around the same axis. Although the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) are depicted as having the same rotation radius in the drawing, the length of the rotation radius of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) is not limited to being the same, and the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can have different rotation radii.

[0207] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the first blade (110) may have multiple positions (P1, P2, P3). For example, the first blade (110) may have a first position (P1), a second position (P2), and a third position (P3). The first blade (110) may cover and / or close the first exhaust port (12a) at the first position (P1). The first blade (110) may rotate from the first position (P1) toward the inside and / or rearward of the housing (10, 20) to be positioned at the second position (P2). The first blade (110) may provide a normal airflow mode at the second position (P2) to allow air to flow directly to the user (see FIG. 15). The first blade (110) can be rotated from the first position (P1) outward and / or forward of the housing (10, 20) to be positioned at the third position (P3). The first blade (110) can provide a downward airflow mode at the third position (P3) to allow direct downward airflow to the user (see FIG. 16). For example, the first blade (110) can freely rotate about 90 degrees or more about the same axis as the second blade (120) between the second position (P2) and the third position (P3). At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the mode in which the first blade (110) freely rotates can be referred to as the first swing mode.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 14, the second blade (120) may have multiple positions (P4, P5, P6). For example, the second blade (120) may have a first position (P4), a second position (P5), and a third position (P6). The second blade (120) may cover and / or close the second exhaust port (12b) at the first position (P4). The second blade (120) may rotate from the first position (P4) outward and / or forward of the housing (10, 20) to be positioned at the second position (P5). The second blade (120) may provide an upward airflow mode at the second position (P5) to cause air within the housing (10, 20) to flow upward (see FIG. 17). The second blade (120) can be positioned at a third position (P6) by rotating further outward and / or forward of the housing (10, 20) than the second position (P5) from the first position (P4). The second blade (120) can provide a horizontal airflow mode at the third position (P6) so that the air inside the housing (10, 20) flows in a horizontal direction (see FIG. 18). For example, the second blade (120) can freely rotate about 90 degrees about the same axis as the second blade (120) between the first position (P4) and the third position (P6). At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the mode in which the second blade (120) freely rotates can be referred to as a second swing mode.

[0209] Since both the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate by about 90 degrees, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can freely rotate around the same rotation axis within a range of about 180 degrees, so that the discharge of cold air can be guided outside the housing without any restriction in the up-down direction.

[0210] Accordingly, the air conditioner according to one embodiment can provide the user with air by discharging it within the housing (10, 20) in various directions without any restriction in the up-down direction according to the user's needs, so that the usability of the air conditioner can be increased.

[0211] The first swing mode and the second swing mode can be operated simultaneously.

[0212] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 15 is an enlarged view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure, showing a normal airflow mode. The first blade of the air conditioner of Fig. 15 may be positioned in the second position.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 15, the first blade (110) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can rotate rearward to open the outlet (12). For example, the first blade (110) can open the first outlet (12a). The first blade (110) receives power from the first motor (130) through the first shaft (161) and can rotate toward the inside of the housing (10, 20) based on the rotation axis provided on the insertion portion (114). The first blade (110) can rotate and / or move from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). The first blade (110) can directly discharge cold air to a user at the lower side of the housing (10, 20) so that the air conditioner provides a direct airflow mode at the second position (P2).

[0214] At this time, the first blade (110) can rotate to a position where the inner surface (110b, rear) contacts the drain panel (60) in the housing (10, 20) and / or the second stopper (127). The drain panel (60) can be a stopper (60) for the first blade (110).

[0215] Accordingly, the air conditioner can discharge air toward the lower side of the housing (10, 20) and provide cooled air directly to the space to be cooled (e.g., indoors) to quickly provide cooled air to the user.

[0216] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure, illustrating a downward airflow mode. The first blade of the air conditioner of Fig. 16 may be positioned at a third position.

[0217] Referring to FIG. 16, the first blade (110) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can rotate forward to open the outlet (12). For example, the first blade (110) can open the first outlet (12a). The first blade (110) receives power from the first motor (130) through the first shaft (161) and can rotate toward the outside of the housing (10, 20) with respect to the rotation axis provided on the insertion portion (114). The first blade (110) can rotate and / or move from the first position (P1) or the second position (P2) to the third position (P3). At this time, the first blade (110) can rotate in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the first blade (110) of FIG. 15.

[0218] The first blade (110) can cause the air conditioner to discharge cool air downwardly from the housing (10, 20) at the third position (P3) so as to provide a downward airflow mode. The downward airflow mode can direct cooled air downward more directly than the general airflow mode. For example, the first blade (110) can cause the air within the housing (10, 20) to discharge cool air downwardly in both a horizontal and vertical direction (e.g., a direction forming a 90 degree angle with respect to the horizontal direction) at the third position (P3) of the first blade (110). However, the direction of discharge of cool air at the third position (P3) of the first blade (110) is not limited to the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0219] In the downward airflow mode, the rotational position of the first blade (110) can be guided by the contact between the first stopper (126) and the outer surface (110a) of the first blade (110). For example, in the downward airflow mode, the contact between the first stopper (126) and the outer surface (110a) of the first blade (110) can prevent the first blade (110) from rotating any further.

[0220] Accordingly, the air conditioner can discharge air toward the lower side of the housing (10, 20) and provide cooled air directly to the space to be cooled (e.g., indoors) to quickly provide cooled air to the user.

[0221] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 17 is an enlarged view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure, illustrating an upward airflow mode. The second blade of the air conditioner of Fig. 17 may be positioned in a second position.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 17, the second blade (120) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can rotate forward to open the outlet (12). For example, the second blade (120) can open the second outlet (12b). The second blade (120) receives power from the second motor (140) through the second shaft (162) and can rotate around a rotation axis provided on the insertion portion (114). The second blade (120) can rotate and / or move from the first position (P4) to the second position (P5).

[0223] The second blade (120) can cause the air conditioner to discharge cold air upwardly from the second position (P5) so as to provide an upward airflow mode. For example, the second blade (120) can cause the air inside the housing (10, 20) to discharge cold air upwardly in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction (e.g., a direction forming a 90 degree angle) from the second position (P5). However, the discharge direction of cold air from the second position (P5) of the second blade (120) is not limited to a horizontal direction and a vertical direction.

[0224] Accordingly, the air conditioner can discharge air toward the upper side of the housing (10, 20), and the cooled air is distributed on the ceiling and gradually sinks downward due to its density, enabling overall cooling of the space to be cooled (e.g., indoors).

[0225] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 18 is an enlarged view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure, illustrating a horizontal airflow mode. The second blade of the air conditioner of Fig. 18 may be positioned at a third position.

[0226] Referring to FIG. 18, the second blade (120) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can rotate forward to open the outlet (12). For example, the second blade (120) can open the second outlet (12b). The second blade (120) receives power from the second motor (140) through the second shaft (162) and can rotate around a rotation axis provided on the insertion portion (114). The second blade (120) can rotate and / or move from the first position (P4) or the second position (P5) to the third position (P6). At this time, the second blade (120) can rotate forward and / or toward the outside of the housing at a larger angle than the position of the second blade (120) of FIG. 17. The second blade (120) can discharge cold air in a direction horizontal to the housing (10, 20) so that the air conditioner provides a horizontal airflow mode at the third position (P6).

[0227] In the horizontal airflow mode, the rotational position of the second blade (120) can be guided by the contact between the first stopper (126) and the outer surface (110a) of the first blade (110). For example, in the horizontal airflow mode, the contact between the first stopper (126) and the outer surface (110a) of the first blade (110) can prevent the second blade (120) from rotating any further.

[0228] Accordingly, the air conditioner can discharge air in the horizontal direction of the housing (10, 20), and the cooling air located at the upper part of the space to be cooled (e.g., indoor) sinks due to its density, thereby enabling overall cooling of the space.

[0229] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 19 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure, showing a minimum airflow mode.

[0230] Referring to FIG. 19, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can close the exhaust port (12). For example, in the minimum airflow mode of the air conditioner, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) may not be rotating. For example, the first blade (110) may be positioned at the first position (P1), and the second blade (120) may be positioned at the first position (P4). In the minimum airflow mode, cooled air may be discharged through a plurality of fine holes (13) formed in the blades (110, 120).

[0231] The minimum airflow mode may have an airflow rate of 1 / 10 or less compared to the amount of cooling air discharged in the upward airflow mode, horizontal airflow mode, downward airflow mode, and general airflow mode. For example, the speed of the air discharged in the minimum airflow mode may be 0.15 m / s, which may provide the user with soft cooling air. However, the air discharge speed is not limited to the above example. By using this discharge method in the minimum airflow mode, the user of the air conditioner can achieve the purpose of air conditioning without being directly exposed to the wind, thereby improving user satisfaction. In addition, when using the air conditioner in the minimum airflow mode, it is possible to avoid excessively cooling a space that has already been sufficiently cooled, which has the effect of saving energy.

[0232] The plurality of holes may be distributed throughout the entire area of ​​the blade (110, 120). However, this is not limited to the case, and the plurality of holes (13) may be distributed only in a specific area of ​​the blade (110, 120).

[0233] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The first blade of the air conditioner of Fig. 20 may be positioned at a third position, and the second blade may be positioned at a second position or a third position.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 20, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) of the airflow guide (100) of the air conditioner according to one embodiment can open the outlet (12) simultaneously. The air conditioner can rotate the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) simultaneously so that the first blade (110) opens the first outlet (12a) and the second blade (120) opens the second outlet (12b). At this time, the first blade (110) can be in a third position (P3) rotated from the first position (P1) toward the outside and / or the front of the housing (10, 20), and the second blade (120) can be in a second position (P5) or a third position (P6) rotated from the first position (P4) toward the outside and / or the front.

[0235] For example, the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) can rotate forward with respect to the rotation axis so that downward airflow and upward airflow can be implemented simultaneously.

[0236] At this time, by contacting the first stopper (126) and the outer surface (110a) of the first blade (110), the rotational positions of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) are guided, and the degree of opening of the discharge port (12) can be guided.

[0237] Accordingly, the air conditioner can discharge air toward the upper and lower directions of the housing (10, 20), and the overall cooling of the space to be cooled (e.g., indoors) is possible by allowing the cooling air to settle in the space, while simultaneously providing the cooling air directly, thereby enabling faster provision of cooling air.

[0238] Fig. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 21 illustrates an air conditioner operated in a normal airflow mode and / or a downward airflow mode.

[0239] Referring to Fig. 21, an air conditioner according to one embodiment can provide cool air (F) directly toward a user (U). The air conditioner can provide strong cool air to a user (U) who wants a strong cooling effect in a short period of time while operating in a normal airflow mode (see Fig. 15) or a downward airflow mode (see Fig. 16).

[0240] Fig. 22 is a schematic diagram illustrating wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 22 illustrates an air conditioner operated in an upward airflow mode and / or a horizontal airflow mode.

[0241] Referring to FIG. 22, an air conditioner according to one embodiment can provide cool air (F) throughout an indoor space by causing air to flow over a user (U) and the heavier air to descend (see FIGS. 17 and 18). Accordingly, if a user desires indirect cool air, the user can utilize the upward airflow mode and / or the horizontal airflow mode, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0242] Fig. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating wind direction in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 23 illustrates an air conditioner operating in minimum airflow mode.

[0243] Referring to Fig. 23, cold air inside the housing (10, 20) can be discharged through a plurality of holes (13) formed in the blades (110, 120), and while providing cold air (F) as indirect wind to the user (U), the purpose of air conditioning can be achieved throughout the indoor space, thereby improving user satisfaction (see Fig. 19).

[0244] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 23, an air conditioner according to one embodiment can guide cold air by rotating the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) at various angles, so that a user can guide the cold air to flow upwards in an indoor space and fall downwards, receive cold air as a direct wind, or receive cold air in a minimum wind speed mode, as needed.

[0245] In addition, since the first blade (110) can be positioned at the third position (P3) and the second blade (120) can be positioned at the second and third positions (P5, P6), both the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) are open, allowing cold air to flow upwards in the indoor space while also receiving direct wind downwards, the air conditioner according to one embodiment can discharge cold air to meet various user needs.

[0246] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0247] In the following, descriptions of the same content as described above are omitted by assigning the same component numbers, and only the changed components are described.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 24, an air conditioner according to one embodiment may include an airflow guide (200). The airflow guide (200) may include a first blade (210), a second blade (220), a third blade (230), and a fourth blade (240). The first blade (210) and the second blade (220) may be arranged in the left-right direction. The third blade (230) and the fourth blade may be arranged in the left-right direction.

[0249] Each of the first blade (210), the second blade (220), the third blade (230), and the fourth blade (240) can open and close the exhaust port (12). For example, the first blade (210) can open and close the lower right side of the exhaust port (12), the second blade (220) can open and close the lower left side of the exhaust port (12), the third blade (230) can open and close the upper left side of the exhaust port (12), and the fourth blade (240) can open and close the upper right side of the exhaust port (12).

[0250] Therefore, the air conditioner can implement various airflow modes by controlling each of the first blade (210), the second blade (220), the third blade (230), and the fourth blade (240).

[0251] At this time, the first blade (210) may share the same rotation axis as the third blade (230), and the second blade (220) and the fourth blade (240) may share the same rotation axis.

[0252] Additionally, according to one embodiment, the first blade (210) and the third blade (230) may rotate together, or the second blade (220) may rotate together with the fourth blade (240). For example, the first blade (210) and the third blade (230) may rotate together, and the second blade (220) and the fourth blade (240) may rotate together.

[0253] Also, for example, the first blade (210) and the second blade (220) may be lower blades, and the third blade (230) and the fourth blade (240) may be upper blades. However, this is not limited to the first blade (230) and the second blade (240) may be upper blades, and the third blade (210) and the fourth blade (220) may be referred to as lower blades.

[0254] Also, for example, the first blade (210) and the third blade (230) may be left-hand blades, and the second blade (220) and the fourth blade (240) may be right-hand blades. However, this is not limited to the first blade (220) and the third blade (230) may be right-hand blades, and the second blade (210) and the fourth blade (240) may be left-hand blades.

[0255] Fig. 25 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 27 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 28 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0256] FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment, FIG. 26 is an enlarged rear view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 25, and FIGS. 27 and 28 are exploded perspective views of the air conditioner according to one embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26.

[0257] Referring to FIGS. 25 to 28, an air conditioner according to one embodiment may include an airflow guide (300). The airflow guide (300) may include a first motor (130) and a second motor (140).

[0258] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed within the housing (10, 20). For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed on one side in the left-right direction within the housing (10, 20). For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed on the left or right side of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120).

[0259] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along a line. The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along a direction. For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along a front-back direction. For example, the first motor (130) may be arranged in front of the second motor (140), and the second motor (140) may be arranged in the rear of the first motor (130).

[0260] The airflow guide (300) according to one embodiment may further include a fixed panel (150). The fixed panel (150) may further include a fixed protrusion (152). The fixed protrusion (152) may protrude toward the motor (130, 140). The fixed protrusion (152) may support the fastening portion (132, 142) of the motor (130, 140) and may be screw-connected to the fastening portion (132, 142). The fixed protrusion (152) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0261] The airflow guide (300) according to one embodiment may further include a belt (170). The belt (170) may enable power generated from the second motor (140) to be transmitted to the second blade (120). For example, the protrusion (122b) of the second coupling portion (122) may be provided to pass through the fastening hole (151), and the belt (170) may be provided to wrap around the second shaft (162) and the protrusion (122b) of the second coupling portion (122). The belt (170) may be arranged between the fixed panel (150) and the first motor (130) and the second motor (140). Accordingly, the first shaft (161) and the first insertion hole (113) are directly connected to transmit power from the first motor (130) to the first blade (110), and the second shaft (162) is connected to the second coupling part (122) via a belt to transmit power to the second blade (120).

[0262] Since the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) are placed on either the left or right side of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120), the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) do not occupy the left and right spaces within the housing (10, 20) at the same time, efficient space utilization is possible.

[0263] Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 30 is an exploded perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0264] FIG. 29 is a bottom perspective view of an airflow guide in an air conditioner according to one embodiment, and FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment shown in FIG. 29.

[0265] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, an air conditioner according to one embodiment may include an airflow guide (400). The airflow guide (400) may include a first motor (130) and a second motor (140).

[0266] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed within the housing (10, 20). For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed on one side in the left-right direction within the housing (10, 20). For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be placed on the left or right side of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120).

[0267] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along a line. The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along a direction. For example, the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) may be arranged along the left-right direction. For example, the first motor (130) may be arranged closer to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) than the second motor (140), and the second motor (140) may be arranged farther from the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) than the first motor (130).

[0268] According to one embodiment, the second blade (120) may further include a motor cover (125). The motor cover (125) may be provided to surround the first motor (130). For example, the motor cover (125) may have a cylindrical shape. The motor cover (125) may include a first cover portion (125a) and a second cover portion (125b). The first cover portion (125a) may be disposed on both left and right sides of the first motor (130) while the first motor (130) is disposed within the motor cover (125). The second cover portion (125b) may be disposed between the first cover portions (125a) to surround the periphery of the first motor (130). The first cover portion (125a) and the second cover portion (125b) may form an accommodation space (125c). A first motor (130) can be accommodated in the accommodation space (125c).

[0269] A fastening hole (125) may be formed in the first cover portion (125a). A second shaft (162) may be inserted into the fastening hole (125d). The second shaft (162) may be custom-fitted to the motor cover (125) through the fastening hole (125d) so that power generated from the second motor (140) is transmitted to the second blade (120). Accordingly, as the second motor (140) operates, the motor cover (125) rotates, and the second blade (120) can also rotate.

[0270] According to one embodiment, the first motor (130) is positioned closer to the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) than the second motor (140), and the second motor (140) is positioned further away from the first motor (130); however, the positional relationship between the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) is not limited to what is illustrated. Accordingly, the first motor (130) may be positioned farther away from the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) than the second motor (140), and the second motor (140) may be positioned closer than the first motor (130).

[0271] Since the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) are placed on either the left or right side of the first blade (110) and the second blade (120), the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) do not occupy the left and right spaces within the housing (10, 20) at the same time, efficient space utilization is possible.

[0272] Fig. 31 is a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0273] Referring to FIG. 31, in one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) may include a user interface device (80), a controller (180), and a driving device (130, 140).

[0274] The air conditioner (1) may include a user interface (80) for interacting with a user.

[0275] The user interface (80) may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0276] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0277] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, and buttons for setting the direct airflow mode and the minimum airflow mode. For example, the at least one input interface may include buttons for setting the upward airflow mode, downward airflow mode, horizontal airflow mode, normal airflow mode, and the minimum airflow mode.

[0278] At least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0279] At least one output interface can transmit various data related to the operation of the air conditioner (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0280] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the operating time, direct airflow mode, and minimum airflow mode of the air conditioner (1) to the user. For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the upward airflow mode, downward airflow mode, horizontal airflow mode, normal airflow mode, and minimum airflow mode to the user.

[0281] Information regarding the operation of the air conditioner (1) can be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0282] The driving device (130, 140) may include a motor (130, 140) that provides driving force to the blade to rotate the blade. The motor (130, 140) may operate based on a control signal of the controller (180). In addition, the motor (130, 140) may include a first motor (130) and a second motor (140). For example, the first motor (130) may provide driving force to the first blade (110) so that the first blade (110) rotates, and the second motor (140) may provide driving force to the second blade (120) so that the second blade (120) rotates.

[0283] The controller (180) can control various components of the air conditioner (1) (e.g., user interface (80), driving device (130, 140), etc.). The controller (180) can control various components of the air conditioner (1) to perform at least one mode including an upward airflow mode, a downward airflow mode, a horizontal airflow mode, a normal airflow mode, a minimum airflow mode, etc. according to a user input. The controller (180) can be an indoor unit control unit.

[0284] The controller (180) can control the first motor (130) and / or the second motor (140). For example, the controller (180) can control the first motor (130) to rotate the first blade (110) toward the position (P3) of the downward airflow mode and the position (P2) of the normal airflow mode, or control the second motor (140) to rotate the second blade (120) toward the position (P5) of the upward airflow mode and the position (P6) of the horizontal airflow mode, or control the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) so that the first blade (110) and the second blade (120) do not rotate in the minimum airflow mode and the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) are in closed positions (P1, P4). Through this, the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) can be selectively opened and closed.

[0285] However, it is not limited thereto, and the controller (180) can simultaneously control the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) to open and close the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) simultaneously.

[0286] In addition, the controller (180) can control the driving device (130, 140) so that the first outlet (12a) or the second outlet (12b) repeatedly opens and closes. For example, the controller (180) can control the first motor (130) and the second motor (140) so that the air conditioner is operated in the first swing mode and / or the second swing mode. For example, the controller (180) can control the first motor (130) so that the first blade (110) repeatedly rotates from the position (P2) in the normal airflow mode to the position (P3) in the downward airflow mode. In addition, for example, the controller (180) can control the second motor (140) so that the second blade (120) repeatedly rotates from the position (P4) in the minimum airflow mode to the position (P6) in the horizontal airflow mode.

[0287] In addition, the controller (180) can control the driving devices (130, 140) so that the first outlet (12a) is sequentially opened and closed and the second outlet (12b) is sequentially opened and closed. In addition, the controller (180) can control the driving devices (130, 140) so that the second outlet (12b) is sequentially opened and closed and the first outlet (12a) is sequentially opened and closed. In addition, the controller (180) can control the driving devices (130, 140) so that the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) are simultaneously opened and closed.

[0288] The controller (180) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the controller (180) may include at least one memory that stores algorithms for controlling the operations of components within the air conditioner (1), program-type data, and at least one processor that performs the operations described above and the operations to be described below using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0289] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a heat exchanger (40), a blower (30) configured to move air to the heat exchanger, a housing (10, 20) that accommodates the heat exchanger and the blower and has an exhaust port (12) formed therein, a first motor (130) and a second motor (140) disposed within the housing, and a rotary shaft (161, 162) including a first shaft (161) connected to the first motor and a second shaft (162) connected to the second motor.

[0290] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a first blade (110) configured to control the direction of air moved by the blower and discharged through the outlet, and arranged on a first side of the rotating shaft to receive power from the first motor, and a second blade (120) configured to control the direction of air moved by the blower and discharged through the outlet, and arranged on a second side of the rotating shaft to receive power from the second motor.

[0291] In an air conditioner according to one embodiment, the first motor (130) may be arranged on a first side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft (161, 162), and the second motor (140) may be arranged on a second side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft (161, 162).

[0292] It may further include a first coupling portion (112) formed at one end of the first blade to be coupled with the rotating shaft, and a second coupling portion (122) formed at one end of the second blade to be coupled with the rotating shaft and the first coupling portion.

[0293] The first connecting portion may be formed at the upper end of the first blade, and the second connecting portion may be formed at the lower end of the second blade.

[0294] The first motor may be arranged on one of the left and right sides of the first blade and the second blade, and the second motor may be arranged on the other of the left and right sides of the first blade and the second blade.

[0295] It may include a first insertion hole (113) formed in the first coupling portion so that the first shaft can be inserted, and a second insertion hole (123) formed in the second coupling portion so that the second shaft can be inserted.

[0296] The first coupling portion is provided in plurality at both ends along the left-right direction of the first blade, the second coupling portion is provided in plurality at both ends along the left-right direction of the second blade, and the air conditioner may include an insertion portion (114) formed between the plurality of first coupling portions at the upper end of the first blade so as to be inserted into the second blade, and a receiving portion (124) formed corresponding to the insertion portion between the plurality of second coupling portions at the lower end of the second blade so as to receive the insertion portion of the first blade.

[0297] It may further include a fixed panel (150) disposed within the housing and to which the first motor and the second motor are coupled.

[0298] The first blade is a blade (110), the second blade is a front panel (120) that forms a part of the housing configured to cover the discharge port, and the front panel can be rotated about the same rotational axis as the blade.

[0299] The above first blade and the above second blade can be arranged along the left and right directions.

[0300] The first motor (130) and the second motor (140) can be placed on one of the left and right sides of the first blade and the second blade.

[0301] The first motor and the second motor are arranged in the front-back direction, the first shaft protrudes from the first motor toward the first blade to connect the first motor to the first blade, the second shaft protrudes from the second motor, and may include a belt (170) connecting the second shaft and the second blade.

[0302] The first blade and the second blade may be configured to cover the discharge port, and the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion may be positioned on the discharge port.

[0303] The housing further includes an exhaust passage (70) formed between the blower and the exhaust port to guide the movement of air from the blower to the exhaust port, and the first shaft and the second shaft can be positioned on the exhaust passage.

[0304] The apparatus may further include a controller (180) configured to selectively control the first motor and the second motor to rotate the first blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the lower side of the housing, or to rotate the second blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the front or upper side of the housing.

[0305] The controller can open the exhaust port by controlling the first motor and the second motor to rotate the first blade and the second blade simultaneously.

[0306] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a housing (10, 20) including an outlet (12) and a front panel (120) configured to form a front portion, a heat exchanger (40) accommodated in the housing, a motor (130, 140) disposed in the housing, a rotation shaft (161, 162) connected to the motor, and a blade (110) coupled with the rotation shaft and configured to open and close a portion of the outlet (12).

[0307] In an air conditioner according to one embodiment, the front panel (120) may be configured to rotate around the same rotational axis as the blade (110) to open and close another portion of the outlet.

[0308] It may include a first motor arranged on a first side according to the left-right direction of the blade and a second motor arranged on a second side according to the left-right direction of the blade.

[0309] A rotary shaft including a first motor and a second motor arranged on one of the left and right sides of the blade, a first shaft protruding from the first motor so that power is transmitted from the first motor to the blade, and a second shaft protruding from the second motor so that power is transmitted from the second motor to the front panel, and a belt connecting the second shaft and the front panel, wherein the first motor and the second motor can be arranged along the front-back direction.

[0310] A first motor and a second motor are arranged on one of the left and right sides of the blade, and a first shaft protruding from the first motor and a second shaft protruding from the second motor to connect the first motor to the blade, wherein the first motor and the second motor can be arranged along the left and right directions.

[0311] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a heat exchanger (40), a housing (10, 120) that accommodates the heat exchanger and has an outlet formed therein, a first motor (130) and a second motor (140) disposed within the housing, a rotary shaft (150, 160) connected to the first motor and the second motor, a first blade (110) configured to control the direction of air discharged through the outlet and disposed on a lower side of the rotary shaft and connected to the first motor, and a second blade (120) configured to control the direction of air discharged through the outlet and disposed on an upper side of the rotary shaft and connected to the second motor.

[0312] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include a controller (180) configured to control the first motor to rotate the first blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the lower side of the housing, or to selectively control the second motor to rotate the second blade to guide movement of air within the housing toward the front or upper side of the housing.

[0313] According to one aspect of the disclosure, an air conditioner capable of implementing various airflow modes without significant deformation of the appearance or change in the size of the housing can be provided.

[0314] According to one aspect of the disclosure, an air conditioner can be provided in which a front panel sharing the same rotation axis as the blades can open and close an outlet, thereby enabling implementation of various airflow modes.

[0315] According to one aspect of the disclosure, the air conditioner can provide cooling air in all directions of 180 degrees without any blind spots by implementing various airflow modes, including an upward airflow mode, a horizontal airflow mode, a downward airflow mode, a normal airflow mode, and a minimum airflow mode. Accordingly, the cooling performance of the air conditioner can be improved, and user convenience can be significantly increased.

[0316] According to one aspect of the disclosure, the air conditioner can implement various airflow modes, such as an upward airflow mode, a horizontal airflow mode, a downward airflow mode, a normal airflow mode, and a minimum airflow mode.

[0317] The above has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical ideas of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A housing having an air intake and an air exhaust; A heat exchanger within the above housing; A blower within the housing configured to move air through the air intake to the heat exchanger and then discharge it through the air outlet; A first motor and a second motor placed within the housing; A rotating shaft including a first shaft connected to the first motor and a second shaft connected to the second motor; A first blade configured to control the direction of air discharged from the first part of the air outlet by being moved by the blower, and arranged on the first side of the rotating shaft and receiving power from the first motor; and A second blade configured to control the direction of air discharged from the second part of the air outlet by being moved by the blower, and arranged on the second side of the rotating shaft and receiving power from the second motor; An air conditioner in which the first motor is arranged on a first side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft, and the second motor is arranged on a second side in the extension direction of the rotating shaft.

2. In paragraph 1, A first connecting portion formed at one end of the first blade; and Further comprising a second connecting portion formed at one end of the second blade; An air conditioner in which the first coupler and the second coupler are configured to be coupled to form a shaft structure having a common axis of rotation about which the first blade and the second blade can rotate, the first blade being on a first side of the shaft structure and the second blade being on a second side of the shaft structure.

3. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner wherein the first coupling part is formed at the upper end of the first blade, and the second coupling part is formed at the lower end of the second blade.

4. In paragraph 3, The above first motor is located on one of the left and right sides of the shaft structure, The above second motor is an air conditioner located on the other of the left and right sides of the shaft structure.

5. In paragraph 4, A first insertion hole formed in the first joint portion so that the first shaft is inserted; and An air conditioner further comprising a second insertion hole formed in the second joint portion so that the second shaft is inserted.

6. In paragraph 5, An insert formed on the upper end of the first blade to be inserted into the second blade; and Further comprising a receiving portion formed corresponding to the insertion portion at the lower end of the second blade to receive the insertion portion of the first blade; The above first coupling part includes a left first coupler on the left side of the insertion part and a right first coupler on the right side of the insertion part, An air conditioner wherein the second coupling part includes a left second coupler on the left side of the receiving part and a right second coupler on the right side of the receiving part.

7. In paragraph 6, a first fixed panel disposed within the housing and to which the first motor is coupled; and An air conditioner further comprising a second fixed panel disposed within the housing and to which the second motor is coupled.

8. In paragraph 2, The second blade is a front panel of the housing configured to cover the second portion of the air outlet, An air conditioner wherein the above front panel is rotatable about a common rotation axis with the above blades.

9. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which the first blade and the second blade are arranged along the left and right directions of the air outlet.

10. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner wherein the first motor and the second motor are both arranged on the left side of the shaft structure, or both are arranged on the right side of the shaft structure.

11. In paragraph 10, Further comprising a belt connecting the second shaft and the second blade; The above first motor and the above second motor are arranged along the front-rear direction of the air conditioner, The first shaft protrudes from the first motor toward the first blade and connects the first motor to the first blade, An air conditioner in which the second shaft protrudes from the second motor and is connected to the second blade by the belt.

12. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner wherein the first blade and the second blade together cover the air outlet, and the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are configured to be positioned at the air outlet.

13. In paragraph 1, Further comprising, within the housing, an exhaust path formed between the blower and the air outlet to guide the movement of air from the blower to the air outlet; An air conditioner wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are located in the exhaust path.

14. In paragraph 2, Including more controllers, The above controller, By rotating the first blade, the first shaft is rotated to adjust the direction of air discharged from the first part of the air outlet toward the bottom of the air conditioner, or To rotate the second shaft so as to adjust the direction of air discharged from the second part of the air outlet to the front or upper side of the air conditioner by rotating the second blade, An air conditioner configured to control the first motor and the second motor.

15. In paragraph 14, An air conditioner wherein the controller is further configured to control the first motor to rotate the first blade and to control the second blade to rotate the second blade to open the air outlet.

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