Air conditioner

Abstract

An air conditioner according to one example comprises: a hollow housing extending in a first direction in which external air is suctioned; a suction panel disposed on one surface of the housing, and extending along one plane that is perpendicular to the first direction; a fan disposed in the housing, and generating a flow so as to cause the air suctioned through the suction panel to move in the first direction; an electrification device for electrifying aerosol in the external air having passed through the suction panel; and a dust collection device disposed to be spaced apart from the electrification device with a predetermined gap therebetween in the first direction so as to collect the electrified aerosol.

Description

air conditioner

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

[0002] High concentrations of aerosols in confined spaces such as homes, rooms, shopping malls, factories, and offices can pose health risks. These aerosols can be generated by smoking, cooking, cleaning, welding, and grinding in confined spaces.

[0003] An electrostatic precipitator can be used in an air conditioner having an air purification function as a device for removing such aerosols.

[0004] An electrostatic precipitator may include a charging device that charges an aerosol in the air through discharge, and a collecting device that is composed of a high-voltage electrode and a low-voltage electrode and captures the aerosol charged by the charging device.

[0005] An air conditioner according to an example may include a hollow housing extending along a first direction in which air is sucked, and an intake panel disposed at one end of the housing and extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0006] An air conditioner according to an example may include a fan disposed inside the housing and generating a flow so that the air sucked in through the suction panel moves along the first direction.

[0007] An air conditioner according to an example may include a charging device for charging the aerosol in the air passing through the suction panel.

[0008] An air conditioner according to an example may include a dust collecting device arranged to be spaced apart from the charging device along the first direction at a predetermined distance to capture the charged aerosol.

[0009] In an air conditioner according to an example, the charging device may include a discharge electrode to which a predetermined voltage is applied and which emits predetermined ions, and a first ground electrode which is arranged to be spaced apart from the discharge electrode by a first gap along a second direction opposite to the first direction and forms an electric field with the discharge electrode.

[0010] In an air conditioner according to an example, the charging device may include a second ground electrode arranged symmetrically with the first ground electrode with the discharge electrode interposed therebetween along the first direction to form an electric field with the discharge electrode.

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the front of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0012] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an intake panel of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0013] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective projection of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0015] Figure 5 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0016] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0017] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the movement of ions in Figure 6.

[0018] Fig. 8 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0019] Fig. 9 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0020] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0021] Figure 11 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0022] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0024] Fig. 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0025] Figure 15 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0026] Fig. 16 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0027] Fig. 17 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0028] Fig. 18 is a plan view of a discharge electrode and a first ground electrode according to an example.

[0029] Fig. 19 is a plan view of a second ground electrode according to an example.

[0030] Figure 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated by M in Figure 18.

[0031] Fig. 21 is a plan view of a discharge electrode and a first ground electrode according to an example.

[0032] Fig. 22 is a plan view of a second ground electrode according to an example.

[0033] Figure 23 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated as M1 in Figure 22.

[0034] Figure 24 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated by M2 in Figure 22.

[0035] 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.

[0036] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the front of an air conditioner according to an example. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an intake panel of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner (1) may include a housing (11), an outlet panel (15), and an intake panel (16). The air conditioner (1) in the present specification may be any air conditioner including an air purification function. For example, the air conditioner (1) in the present specification is not limited to an air purification function including an electric precipitator (10) for capturing aerosols in the air, which will be described later, and may be applied to other air conditioners. For example, it may be applied to an air conditioner including an air purification function and a type of air conditioner other than an air conditioner. Furthermore, it may be applied to any home appliance that includes an electric precipitator.

[0047] The housing (11) according to one example forms the exterior and the outside air (A in ) may have a hollow shape extending along the first direction (+X) in which the suction is made. For example, the housing (11) may include an upper cabinet (11a), a left cabinet (11b), a right cabinet (11c), and a lower cabinet (11d). The upper cabinet (11a), the left cabinet (11b), the right cabinet (11c), and the lower cabinet (11d) may be formed integrally. The upper cabinet (11a), the left cabinet (11b), the right cabinet (11c), and the lower cabinet (11d) may sequentially form the upper, left, right, and lower surfaces of the housing (11).

[0048] The intake panel (16) is used to draw in outside air (A in ) may be arranged on one side of the housing (11), for example, the front side of the housing (11), so that air is introduced into the interior of the air conditioner (1). The discharge panel (15) may be arranged on the rear side of the housing (11) so that air sucked into the interior of the housing (11) through the suction panel (16) is discharged to the outside.

[0049] The housing (11), the suction panel (16) and / or the discharge panel (15) may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the suction panel (16) and / or the discharge panel (15) may be formed to be coupled to the housing (11). The housing (11), the suction panel (16) and / or the discharge panel (15) may comprise plastic, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0050] Outside air (A in ) passes through the housing (11) along the first direction (+X) and the purified air (A out ) can be discharged. The first direction (+X) may be a direction from upstream to downstream of the air path. The first direction (+X) may be a direction from the intake panel (16) to the discharge panel (15). The outside air (A) introduced through the intake panel (16) in) can be purified by an electric dust collector (10: see Fig. 3) placed inside the housing (11). The purified air (A out ) can be discharged to the outside through the discharge panel (15).

[0051] As an example, since the suction panel (16) and the discharge panel (15) are illustrated as being arranged vertically with respect to the ground, it is described that the air flows from the rear to the front. Accordingly, the first direction (+X) may be a direction from the rear to the front. That is, the first direction (+X) may be a direction along the X-axis.

[0052] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and when the intake panel (16) and the discharge panel (15) are arranged horizontally with respect to the ground, the air may flow from downward to upward, and the first direction (+X) may be a direction along the Z-axis that faces upward from downward. In other words, the arrangement structure of the air conditioner (1) is not limited to the one illustrated, and the first direction (+X) may be defined as a direction in which the air flows from upstream to downstream.

[0053] The suction panel (16) may extend along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). The suction panel (16) according to an example may include a shielding portion (18) and an opening portion (17). Referring to an enlarged area (P) of a portion of the suction panel (16), the shielding portion (18) may include a plurality of ribs. The plurality of ribs may extend along different directions orthogonal to the first direction (+X). For example, the plurality of ribs may extend along various directions in the YZ plane on which the suction panel (16) is arranged. The plurality of ribs may extend in various directions orthogonal to the first direction (+X). In the above-described example, the plurality of ribs are illustrated as extending in the Z-axis direction and / or in the diagonal direction between the Y-axis and the Z-axis, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0054] The covering portion (18) can be formed over the entire area of ​​the suction panel (16). The suction panel (16) can be provided without a hole that is separately formed to expose the discharge electrode (110, see FIG. 3) inside the housing (11) to the outside. That is, the covering portion (18) can be provided in a uniform pattern over the entire area of ​​the suction panel (16). This increases the degree of freedom in the design of the suction panel (16), thereby improving aesthetics.

[0055] The opening (17) may be formed corresponding to the shielding portion (18). That is, the opening (17) may be an opening formed between a plurality of ribs of the shielding portion (18). The housing (11) external air (A in ) can be sucked into the housing (11) through the opening (17).

[0056] Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to an example. Fig. 4 is a schematic projection perspective view of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, an air conditioner (1) according to an example may include an electric dust collector (10) and a fan (31). The fan (31) may be placed inside the housing (11). The fan (31) may draw in outside air (A in ) can be sucked into the interior of the housing (11) through the suction panel (16) and discharged to the exterior of the housing (11) through the discharge panel (15). The fan (31) can cause the air to flow in the first direction (+X).

[0058] A fan (31) may be disposed between the suction panel (16) and the discharge panel (15). The fan (31) may be disposed downstream from the suction panel (16) in the first direction (+X). The fan (31) may be disposed upstream from the discharge panel (15) in the first direction (+X).

[0059] The air conditioner (1) may include an electrostatic precipitator (10). The electrostatic precipitator (10) may be placed inside a housing (11). The electrostatic precipitator (10) extracts outside air (A) that has passed through an intake panel (16). in ) captures aerosols from the outside air (A in ) can be filtered.

[0060] The electrostatic precipitator (10) may include a charging device (100) and a dust collector (200). The charging device (100) collects outside air (A) that has passed through the suction panel (16). in ) can be charged. The dust collector (200) captures the aerosol charged by the charging device (100) and discharges it into the outside air (A in ) can be removed.

[0061] An electrostatic precipitator (10) may be disposed between a suction panel (16) and a discharge panel (15). The electrostatic precipitator (10) may be disposed downstream from the suction panel (16) in the first direction (+X). The electrostatic precipitator (10) may be disposed upstream from the discharge panel (15) in the first direction (+X). The electrostatic precipitator (10) may be disposed upstream from the fan (31) in the first direction (+X).

[0062] An electrostatic precipitator (10) may include a charging device (100) and a dust collector (200). The dust collector (200) may be disposed at a predetermined distance from the charging device (100) along a first direction (+X) so as to capture an aerosol charged by the charging device (100). For example, the charging device (100) may be disposed upstream of the dust collector (200) with respect to the first direction (+X). The charging device (100) may be disposed adjacent to a suction panel (16).

[0063] The charging device (100) may include a discharge electrode (110), a first ground electrode (120), and a second ground electrode (130). The discharge electrode (110) may be embedded inside the housing (11). The discharge electrode (110) may emit ions. The discharge electrode (110) may receive voltage from a power supply unit (H) and emit ions by corona discharge. The discharge electrode (110) may receive a predetermined voltage. Hereinafter, the voltage that the discharge electrode (110) receives from the power supply unit (H) may be referred to as a 'first voltage'. The discharge electrode (110) may receive the first voltage and emit negative or positive ions.

[0064] According to an example, a discharge electrode (110) may be positioned to emit ions toward the suction panel (16). The discharge electrode (110) may be positioned upstream of the air flow path. The discharge electrode (110) may be positioned to emit ions toward a second direction (-X) opposite to the first direction (+X).

[0065] According to an example, a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be provided. For example, a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval in a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction and / or the Z-axis direction. At this time, a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be arranged parallel to the suction panel (16). In this drawing, four discharge electrodes (110) are illustrated as an example, but the number of discharge electrodes (110) is not limited thereto.

[0066] The first ground electrode (120) may be arranged to cover the suction panel (16). For example, the first ground electrode (120) may extend along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X) so as to be parallel to the suction panel (16).

[0067] At least a portion of the first ground electrode (120) may include one or more conductive or semiconductive materials that are metallic or exhibit electrical characteristics similar thereto. The first ground electrode (120) may be grounded with the ground (G). Accordingly, the first ground electrode (120) may maintain a voltage of 0 V.

[0068] The first ground electrode (120) can maintain a lower potential than the discharge electrode (110). Therefore, a constant potential difference can be formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110). An electric field can be formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110). High-density ions can be generated between the discharge electrode (110) and the first ground electrode (120).

[0069] At least a portion of the second ground electrode (130) may include one or more conductive or semiconductive materials that are metallic or exhibit electrical characteristics similar thereto. The second ground electrode (130) may be grounded with the ground (G). Accordingly, the second ground electrode (130) may maintain a voltage of 0 V.

[0070] The second ground electrode (130) can maintain a lower potential than the discharge electrode (110). Therefore, a constant potential difference can be formed between the second ground electrode (130) and the discharge electrode (110). An electric field can be formed between the second ground electrode (130) and the discharge electrode (110). High-density ions can be generated between the discharge electrode (110) and the second ground electrode (130).

[0071] The first ground electrode (120) may be positioned so as to be spaced apart from the discharge electrode (110) by a first gap (d1: see FIG. 6) along the second direction (-X) opposite to the first direction (+X). The first ground electrode (120) may be positioned between the suction panel (16) and the discharge electrode (110). The first ground electrode (120) may be positioned adjacent to the suction panel (16).

[0072] The second ground electrode (130) may be arranged symmetrically with the first ground electrode (120) along the first direction (+X) with the discharge electrode (110) therebetween. For example, the second ground electrode (130) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the discharge electrode (110) along the first direction (+X) with a second gap (d2: see FIG. 6) therebetween. For example, the second gap (d2: see FIG. 6) may be substantially the same as the first gap (d1: see FIG. 6).

[0073] As the second ground electrode (130) is arranged symmetrically with the first ground electrode (120) with the discharge electrode (110) therebetween, an electric field can be generated between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). For example, ions emitted by the discharge electrode (110) can move toward the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) due to the potential difference. At this time, since the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) can be arranged symmetrically with the discharge electrode (110) therebetween, ions emitted by the discharge electrode (110) can not accumulate in a specific region. Accordingly, as the potential of the specific region increases, the potential difference between the specific region and the discharge electrode (110) decreases, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which corona discharge does not occur easily at the discharge electrode (110). In other words, since the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) maintain a constant potential difference with the discharge electrode (110), the discharge electrode (110) can continuously emit ions by corona discharge.

[0074] According to an example, a plurality of first ground electrodes (120) may be provided. For example, a plurality of first ground electrodes (120) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval in a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). Each of the plurality of first ground electrodes (120) may be arranged to correspond to each of the plurality of discharge electrodes (110).

[0075] According to an example, a plurality of second ground electrodes (130) may be provided. For example, a plurality of second ground electrodes (130) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval in a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). Each of the plurality of second ground electrodes (130) may be arranged to correspond to each of the plurality of discharge electrodes (110).

[0076] As described above, each of the plurality of first ground electrodes (120), the plurality of discharge electrodes (110), and the plurality of second ground electrodes (130) can be sequentially arranged along the first direction (+X) to form a plurality of charging regions.

[0077] In this drawing, the number of first ground electrodes (120) and second ground electrodes (130) is illustrated as an example of four, but the number of first ground electrodes (120) and second ground electrodes (130) is not limited thereto. The number of first ground electrodes (120) and second ground electrodes (130) may be provided corresponding to the number of discharge electrodes (110).

[0078] The dust collecting device (200) may include a first dust collecting electrode (210) and a second dust collecting electrode (220). The first dust collecting electrode (210) and the second dust collecting electrode (220) may be alternately arranged along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). In this drawing, the alternate arrangement along the Y-axis is illustrated as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first dust collecting electrode (210) and the second dust collecting electrode (220) may be alternately arranged along the Z-axis.

[0079] The dust collecting device (200) can be electrically connected to a power supply unit (H). A high voltage can be applied to the first dust collecting electrode (210) from the power supply unit (H), and the second dust collecting electrode (220) can be grounded. The first dust collecting electrode (210) can be formed as a positive (+) electrode, and the second dust collecting electrode (220) can be formed as a negative (-) electrode. An electric field is formed between the first dust collecting electrode (210) and the second dust collecting electrode (220), so that the aerosol charged from the charging device (100) can be captured by the dust collecting electrodes (210, 220).

[0080] Below, an air conditioner including various shapes of the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) is described.

[0081] Figure 5 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a charging device (100) according to an example may include a discharge electrode (110), a first ground electrode (120), and a second ground electrode (130). The discharge electrode (110) may include a discharge electrode portion (111) and a discharge electrode support portion (112). The discharge electrode portion (111) may include a conductive material extending along one direction. For example, the discharge electrode portion (111) may include a brush shape including a plurality of conductive fibers. The conductive fibers may include, for example, carbon fibers.

[0083] According to an example, one end of the discharge electrode portion (111) may be arranged to face a second direction (-X) opposite to the first direction (+X). For example, one end of the discharge electrode portion (111) may be arranged to face the suction panel (16). The other end of the discharge electrode portion (111) may be supported by a discharge electrode support portion (112).

[0084] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the discharge electrode (110) may be provided with other materials or other shapes. That is, the discharge electrode (110) may include any structure capable of emitting ions when voltage is applied.

[0085] The first ground electrode (120) may include a first ground electrode portion (121) and a first hollow portion (122). According to an example, the first ground electrode (120) may include a closed loop shape including the hollow portion. The first hollow portion (122) may extend along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, the first hollow portion (122) may include a circular plane or a polygonal plane shape. In this case, the first ground electrode portion (121) may extend along the periphery of the first hollow portion (122). Accordingly, the first ground electrode portion (121) may include at least one of a circular ring shape or a polygonal ring shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first ground electrode (120) may have other shapes.

[0086] The first hollow portion (122) may be located approximately at the center of the first ground electrode (120) with respect to one plane (YZ plane). The approximate center of the first hollow portion (122) may face the discharge electrode (110) in the first direction (+X). The first ground electrode portion (121) may form the outer periphery of the first hollow portion (122). Accordingly, the first ground electrode portion (121) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the discharge electrode (110). For example, the first ground electrode portion (121) may be provided in a rectangular ring shape including the first-first side portion (121-1) to the first-fourth side portion (121-4), as illustrated in FIG. 5. At this time, the first-first side portion (121-1) to the first-fourth side portion (121-4) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the discharge electrode (110).

[0087] The first ground electrode (120) may have a cross-section cut along a plane (XZ plane) parallel to the first direction (+X) that may have either a circular shape or a polygonal shape. For example, when the first ground electrode portion (121) has a conductor shape arranged to surround the first hollow portion (122), the cross-section of the first ground electrode portion (121) cut along a plane (XZ plane) may have either a circular shape or a polygonal shape.

[0088] Part or all of the first ground electrode portion (121) may include at least one of a conductive material or a semi-conductive material. According to one example, when the first ground electrode (120) includes a conductive material and the distance (d) between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110) is relatively short, a spark may occur between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110). At this time, when the first ground electrode (120) includes a semi-conductive material, even when the distance (d) between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110) is relatively short, the spark may be prevented from occurring between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110).

[0089] The second ground electrode (130) may include a second ground electrode portion (131) and a second hollow portion (132). According to an example, the second ground electrode (130) may include a closed loop shape including the hollow portion. The second hollow portion (132) may extend along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, the second hollow portion (132) may include a circular plane or a polygonal plane shape. In this case, the second ground electrode portion (131) may extend along the periphery of the second hollow portion (132). Accordingly, the second ground electrode portion (131) may include at least one of a circular ring shape or a polygonal ring shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second ground electrode (130) may have other shapes.

[0090] The second hollow portion (132) may be positioned approximately at the center of the second ground electrode (130) with respect to one plane (YZ plane). The approximate center of the second hollow portion (132) may face the discharge electrode (110) in the second direction (-X). Accordingly, the first hollow portion (122), the discharge electrode (110), and the second hollow portion (132) may be sequentially arranged along the first direction (+X).

[0091] The second ground electrode portion (131) may form the outer periphery of the second hollow portion (132). Accordingly, the second ground electrode portion (131) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the discharge electrode (110). For example, the second ground electrode portion (131) may be provided in a rectangular ring shape including the 2-1 side portion (131-1) to the 2-4 side portion (131-4), as illustrated in FIG. 5. At this time, the 2-1 side portion (131-1) to the 2-4 side portion (131-4) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the discharge electrode (110).

[0092] The second ground electrode (130) may have a cross-section cut along a plane (XZ plane) parallel to the first direction (+X) that may have either a circular shape or a polygonal shape. For example, when the second ground electrode portion (131) has a conductor shape arranged to surround the second hollow portion (132), the cross-section of the second ground electrode portion (131) cut along a plane (XZ plane) may have either a circular shape or a polygonal shape.

[0093] Part or all of the second ground electrode portion (131) may include at least one of a conductive material or a semi-conductive material. Matters related to the material of the second ground electrode portion (131) are substantially the same as those of the first ground electrode portion (121), and therefore description thereof is omitted here.

[0094] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the movement of ions in Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the first ground electrode (120), the discharge electrode (110), and the second ground electrode (130) according to an example can be sequentially arranged along the first direction (+X).

[0096] The first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction (+X) with the discharge electrode (110) therebetween. For example, the distance (h) between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) along the first direction (+X) may be 5 mm or more and 60 mm or less. For example, when the distance (h) between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) along the first direction (+X) exceeds 60 mm, the charging efficiency may be reduced between the first ground electrode (120), the discharge electrode (110), and the second ground electrode (130).

[0097] Referring to FIG. 8, one or more side electrodes (140) may connect the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) along the first direction (+X). For example, each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may extend along the first direction (+X). The one or more side electrodes (140) may include one or more of a conductive material or a semi-conductive material. According to an example, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be formed integrally with the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). In addition, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be formed separately from the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) and may be connected to the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130), respectively.

[0098] The length of each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be substantially equal to the distance (h) at which the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) are spaced apart along the first direction (+X). For example, when the distance (h) at which the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) are spaced apart along the first direction (+X) exceeds 60 mm, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged between the first ground electrode (120), the discharge electrode (110), and the second ground electrode (130) to prevent a phenomenon in which the charging efficiency is lowered. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and even when the distance (h) between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) along the first direction (+X) does not exceed a predetermined range, one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged to support the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130).

[0099] Each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged symmetrically about the discharge electrode (110) between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). For example, when the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) are arranged in a rectangular ring shape, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged in four pieces to connect the respective corners of the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged at any position that can connect the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). In addition, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged in a single piece as well as in a plurality to connect the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130).

[0100] Referring again to FIGS. 4 to 6, the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) according to an example may be symmetrically arranged with the discharge electrode (110) as the center. The first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) may have shapes that correspond to each other. For example, the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) may have square ring shapes that correspond to each other.

[0101] In addition, each of the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) may be positioned to be spaced apart from the discharge electrode (110) by substantially the same distance. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a first distance (d1) between the first-first side (121-1) provided in the first ground electrode (120) and one end of the discharge electrode portion (111) may be substantially the same as a second distance (d2) between the second-first side (131-1) provided in the second ground electrode (130) and one end of the discharge electrode portion (111).

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) are arranged symmetrically with respect to the discharge electrode (110), so that the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110) and the electric field formed between the second ground electrode (130) and the discharge electrode (110) can be relatively uniform. Accordingly, the electric field can be prevented from being concentrated in a specific area between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130).

[0103] As a uniform electric field is formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130), ions emitted from the discharge electrode (110) can be uniformly distributed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). Accordingly, the charging efficiency for aerosols moving between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) can be improved.

[0104] One end of the discharge electrode (110) from which ions are emitted from the discharge electrode (110), for example, one end of the discharge electrode portion (111), may be positioned toward the second direction (-X). At this time, the ions emitted from the discharge electrode (110) may be uniformly positioned in the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the discharge electrode (110) and in the electric field formed between the second ground electrode (130) and the discharge electrode (110). However, some of the ions emitted from the discharge electrode (110) may not be positioned in the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130). If the ions that are not positioned in the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) pass through the suction panel (16) and are emitted to the outside, they may cause static electricity phenomena, etc. with external objects.

[0105] According to one example, a filter member (40) may be placed between the suction panel (16) and the first ground electrode (120). For example, the filter member (40) may be a deodorizing filter, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The filter member (40) may be configured to draw in outside air (A) that has passed through the suction panel (16) and entered the interior of the housing (11). in ) may include any perforated member through which the particles can pass, for example, a fine dust collecting filter in the form of a non-woven fabric formed of polypropylene resin or polyethylene resin and / or a granular activated carbon filter.

[0106] As one end of the discharge electrode part (111) is arranged to face the suction panel (16), ions emitted from one end of the discharge electrode part (111) may be emitted toward the suction panel (16). If ions emitted from one end of the discharge electrode part (111) pass through the suction panel (16) and are emitted to the outside, they may cause static electricity phenomena with external objects, etc. At this time, if a filter member (40) is arranged between the suction panel (16) and the first ground electrode (120), the phenomenon of ions emitted from one end of the discharge electrode part (111) passing through the suction panel (16) and being emitted to the outside can be blocked.

[0107] Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a charging device according to an example. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example. Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a charging device according to an example. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an air conditioner according to an example.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, one end of the discharge electrode (110) from which ions are emitted, for example, one end of the discharge electrode portion (111), may be arranged toward the first direction (+X). Except for the arrangement of the discharge electrode (110), the remaining configuration is substantially the same as that of FIG. 5, and therefore, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a description thereof is omitted here.

[0109] Ions can be emitted from one end of the discharge electrode (110) along the first direction (+X). At this time, one end of the discharge electrode (110) can be arranged to face the suction panel (16). Accordingly, ions that are not arranged in the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) can be prevented from passing through the suction panel (16) and being emitted to the outside.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, one end of the discharge electrode (110) from which ions are emitted, for example, one end of the discharge electrode portion (111), may be arranged toward another direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X). Except for the arrangement of the discharge electrode (110), the remaining configuration is substantially the same as FIG. 5, and therefore, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a description thereof is omitted here.

[0111] From one end of the discharge electrode (110), ions can be emitted along another direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X). Here, the other direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X) means any direction among planes (YZ planes) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, the other direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X) may mean a Y direction, a Z direction, or a direction inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the Y direction and the Z direction. For example, one end of the discharge electrode (110) may be arranged toward the Z direction as illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0112] According to one example, one end of the discharge electrode (110) may be positioned in a different direction from the suction panel (16). Accordingly, ions not positioned in the electric field formed between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) can be prevented from passing through the suction panel (16) and being emitted to the outside.

[0113] Fig. 13 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example. Fig. 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example. Fig. 15 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example. Fig. 16 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example.

[0114] The above-described example discloses a charging device (100) including one discharge electrode (110), a first ground electrode (120), and a second ground electrode (130). According to one example, the charging device (100) may include a plurality of discharge electrodes (110), a plurality of first ground electrodes (120), and a plurality of second ground electrodes (130).

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be provided. The plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may include a first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, with respect to the first discharge electrode (110a), one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other on a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). In FIGS. 13 and 14, the one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) are configured as three, but it goes without saying that the number of one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) may be implemented as one or more arbitrary numbers.

[0116] When a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) are provided, a plurality of first ground electrodes (120) and second ground electrodes (130) may also be provided. In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the number of one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) and one or more second-second ground electrodes (130b-130d) corresponding to one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) is also described as three, but the number of one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) and one or more second-second ground electrodes (130b-130d) may also be implemented as one or any arbitrary number.

[0117] The first ground electrode assembly (1200) may include a first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d). The first-first ground electrode (120a) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first discharge electrode (110a) by a first gap along a second direction (-X) opposite to the first direction (+X). The one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) by a first gap along the second direction (-X).

[0118] The second ground electrode assembly (1300) may include a second-first ground electrode (130a) and one or more second-second ground electrodes (130b-130d). The second-first ground electrode (130a) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the first-first ground electrode (120a) along the first direction (+X) with respect to the first discharge electrode (110a) therebetween. The one or more second-second ground electrodes (130b-130d) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) along the first direction (+X) with respect to the one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) therebetween.

[0119] The first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) included in the first ground electrode assembly (1200) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other or arranged to be coupled to each other. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) included in the first ground electrode assembly (1200) may be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval along one plane (YZ plane).

[0120] In addition, the first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) included in the first ground electrode assembly (1200) may be arranged to be mutually coupled along one plane (YZ plane) as illustrated in FIG. 14. For example, the first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) may be provided as an integral part. Since the first ground electrode assembly (1200) is provided as an integral part, manufacturing convenience may be improved. Although FIG. 14 illustrates that the first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) are all coupled, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Two or more of the first-first ground electrode (120a) and one or more first-second ground electrodes (120b-120d) may be combined, and the rest may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0121] The 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) included in the 2nd ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other or arranged to be coupled to each other. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) included in the 2nd ground electrode assembly (1300) may be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval along one plane (YZ plane).

[0122] In addition, the 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) included in the 2nd ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be mutually coupled along one plane (YZ plane) as illustrated in FIG. 14. For example, the 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) may be provided as an integral part. Since the 2nd ground electrode assembly (1300) is provided as an integral part, manufacturing convenience may be improved. Although FIG. 14 illustrates that the 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) are all coupled, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Two or more of the 2-1 ground electrode (130a) and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes (130b-130d) may be combined, and the rest may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0123] One or more side electrodes (140) can connect the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) along the first direction (+X). For example, each of the one or more side electrodes (140) can extend along the first direction (+X). In one example, the one or more side electrodes (140) can be formed integrally with the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300). Additionally, the one or more side electrodes (140) can be formed separately from the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) and connected to the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300), respectively.

[0124] The length of each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be substantially equal to the distance (h) that the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are spaced apart along the first direction (+X). The one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged between the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) to prevent a phenomenon in which charging efficiency is reduced.

[0125] Each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged symmetrically about the discharge electrode (110) between the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and each of the one or more side electrodes (140) may be arranged at any position that can connect the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300). In addition, the one or more side electrodes (140) may be provided as a single piece as well as a plurality of pieces to connect the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300).

[0126] Referring to Fig. 16, the first discharge electrode (110a) may include a first discharge electrode portion (111a) extending along one direction. The first discharge electrode portion (111a) may be extended so that one end of the first discharge electrode portion (111a) is positioned toward the first direction (+X).

[0127] Each of the one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) may include a second discharge electrode portion (111b-111d) extending along one direction. The second discharge electrode portions (111b-111d) may be extended such that one end of the second discharge electrode portions (111b-111d) is arranged toward another direction perpendicular to the second direction (-X) or the first direction (+X). Here, the other direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X) means any direction among a plane (YZ plane) perpendicular to the first direction (+X). For example, the other direction perpendicular to the first direction (+X) may mean a Y direction, a Z direction, or a direction inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the Y direction and the Z direction.

[0128] For example, one or more of the second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) may include a 2-1 discharge electrode (110b), a 2-2 discharge electrode (110c), and a 2-3 discharge electrode (110d). The 2-1 discharge electrode (110b) may include a 2-1 discharge electrode portion (111b) having one end disposed along the third direction (+Z). The 2-2 discharge electrode (110c) may include a 2-2 discharge electrode portion (111c) having one end disposed along the fourth direction (-Z). The 2-3 discharge electrode (110d) may include a 2-3 discharge electrode portion (111d) having one end disposed along the second direction (-X).

[0129] As the ends of the first discharge electrode part (111a), the second-first discharge electrode part (111b), the second-second discharge electrode part (111c), and the second-third discharge electrode part (111d) are arranged in different directions, the directions of ions discharged from the ends of the first discharge electrode part (111a), the second-first discharge electrode part (111b), the second-second discharge electrode part (111c), and the second-third discharge electrode part (111d) may also be different. As described above, the arrangement of the first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d) arranged between the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be adjusted differently. Accordingly, the outside air (A) flowing in through the suction panel (16) in ) can partially adjust the direction of ions emitted between the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) depending on the flow direction.

[0130] Fig. 17 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a charging device according to an example. Fig. 18 is a plan view of a discharge electrode and a first ground electrode according to an example. Fig. 19 is a plan view of a second ground electrode according to an example. Fig. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated by M in Fig. 18.

[0131] The above-described examples disclose a first ground electrode assembly (1200) and a second ground electrode assembly (1300) having multiple connecting portions. According to one example, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can form an electric field region by bending the ground electrode conductor multiple times.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor having both ends multiple times. For example, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can include a ground electrode conductor (1201) including a first end (1211) and a second end (1212). The first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be formed by bending the ground electrode conductor (1201) extending in one direction multiple times between the first end (1211) and the second end (1212). At this time, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) may be arranged so that, when viewed in the first direction (+X), the first ground electrode assembly (1200) surrounds a plurality of discharge electrodes (110), for example, a first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d).

[0133] As an example, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1201) having a first end (1211) and a second end (1212) five times. At this time, the first discharge electrode (110a) and the second-first discharge electrode (110b) can be arranged in the first-first ground electrode assembly region (1210). In addition, the second-second discharge electrode (110c) and the second-third discharge electrode (110d) can be arranged in the first-second ground electrode assembly region (1220).

[0134] The first ground electrode assembly (1200) illustrated in FIG. 14 may be formed in a closed loop configuration using a plurality of connecting portions. As illustrated in FIG. 18, both ends of the first ground electrode assembly (1200) according to an example, for example, the first end (1211) and the second end (1212), may be formed in an open loop configuration that is not supported in another region. For example, since the first end (1211) and the second end (1212) are not supported in one direction in another region, a process for joining the first end (1211) and the second end (1212) to another region, for example, a welding process, may be omitted, thereby improving manufacturing convenience.

[0135] As an example, the first end (1211) and the second end (1212) may be provided in an open loop shape so as to be spaced apart from other areas by a predetermined distance (L). The predetermined distance (L) may be 15 mm or less. As the first end (1211) and the second end (1212) are spaced apart from other areas by a predetermined distance (L), a uniform electric field can be maintained in the 1-1 ground electrode assembly area (1210) and the 1-2 ground electrode assembly area (1220).

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 19, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1301) having both ends multiple times. For example, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can include a ground electrode conductor (1301) having a first end (1311) and a second end (1312). The second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be formed by bending the ground electrode conductor (1301) extending in one direction multiple times between the first end (1311) and the second end (1312). At this time, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged so that, when viewed in the first direction (+X), the second ground electrode assembly (1300) surrounds a plurality of discharge electrodes (110), for example, a first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110d).

[0137] As an example, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1301) having a first end (1311) and a second end (1312) five times. At this time, the first discharge electrode (110a) and the 2-2 discharge electrode (110c) can be arranged in the 2-1 ground electrode assembly region (1310). In addition, the 2-1 discharge electrode (110b) and the 2-3 discharge electrode (110d) can be arranged in the 2-2 ground electrode assembly region (1320).

[0138] The second ground electrode assembly (1300) illustrated in FIG. 14 may be provided in a closed loop configuration using a plurality of connecting portions. As illustrated in FIG. 19, both ends of the second ground electrode assembly (1300) according to an example, for example, the first end (1311) and the second end (1312), may be provided in an open loop configuration that is not supported by other areas. In this case, matters related to the first end (1311) and the second end (1312) being provided in an open loop configuration so as to be spaced apart from other areas by a predetermined distance are substantially the same as those of the first ground electrode assembly (1200), and therefore, description thereof is omitted herein.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 20, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the first direction (+X). The first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be staggered in some areas and overlap in some areas when viewed in the first direction (+X).

[0140] The first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged in an alternating manner when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151). For example, when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151), only one of the first-21 ground electrode (120b) or the second-21 ground electrode (130b) may be arranged.

[0141] Additionally, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to overlap when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the second region (152). For example, the first-21 ground electrode (120b) and the second-21 ground electrode (130b) may be arranged to overlap when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the second region (152).

[0142] Fig. 21 is a plan view of a discharge electrode and a first ground electrode according to an example. Fig. 22 is a plan view of a second ground electrode according to an example. Fig. 23 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated by M1 in Fig. 22. Fig. 24 is an enlarged perspective view of the area indicated by M2 in Fig. 22.

[0143] In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 17 to 19, a case in which a plurality of discharge electrodes (110) are implemented as four is described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may be implemented as two or more, and accordingly, the bending shapes of the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) and the number of the plurality of discharge electrodes (110) may also be different. Hereinafter, a case in which the plurality of discharge electrodes (110) are implemented as six will be described.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1201) having both ends multiple times. For example, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1201) extending in one direction six times. At this time, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) can be arranged so that, when viewed in the first direction (+X), the first ground electrode assembly (1200) surrounds a plurality of discharge electrodes (110), for example, a first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110f). For example, a first discharge electrode (110a), a second-first discharge electrode (110b), and a second-second discharge electrode (110c) may be arranged in a first-first ground electrode assembly area (1210). In addition, a second-third discharge electrode (110d), a second-fourth discharge electrode (110e), and a second-fifth discharge electrode (110f) may be arranged in a first-second ground electrode assembly area (1220).

[0145] The second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1301) having both ends multiple times. For example, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be formed by bending a ground electrode conductor (1301) extending in one direction eight times. At this time, the second ground electrode assembly (1300) can be arranged so that, when viewed in the first direction (+X), the second ground electrode assembly (1300) surrounds a plurality of discharge electrodes (110), for example, a first discharge electrode (110a) and one or more second discharge electrodes (110b-110e). For example, the first discharge electrode (110a) and the 2-3 discharge electrode (110d) can be arranged in the 2-1 ground electrode assembly region (1310). Additionally, the 2-1 discharge electrode (110b) and the 2-4 discharge electrode (110e) may be disposed in the 2-2 ground electrode assembly area (1320). Additionally, the 2-2 discharge electrode (110c) and the 2-5 discharge electrode (110f) may be disposed in the 2-3 ground electrode assembly area (1330).

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the first direction (+X). The first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be staggered in some areas and overlap in some areas when viewed in the first direction (+X).

[0147] The first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged in an alternating manner when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151). For example, when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151), only one of the first-21 ground electrode (120b) or the second-21 ground electrode (130b) may be arranged.

[0148] Additionally, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to overlap when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the second region (152). For example, the first-21 ground electrode (120b) and the second-21 ground electrode (130b) may be arranged to overlap when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151).

[0149] The first area (151) in which the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are arranged to be staggered and the second area (152) in which the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are arranged to be overlapping may exist together or only one of the two may exist.

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 24, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval in the first direction (+X). The first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be staggered when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151). For example, when viewed in the first direction (+X) in the first region (151), only one of the first-24 ground electrode (120e) or the second-24 ground electrode (130e) may be arranged. At this time, the second region (152) in which the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the first direction (+X) may not exist.

[0151] As described above, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) may be arranged to be staggered in the first region (151) and overlap in the second region (152) when viewed in the first direction (+X). Therefore, a blank region in which at least one of the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) is not arranged may not be formed in the entire region including the first region (151) and the second region (152). Accordingly, the potential difference between the region in which the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are arranged and the region in which they are not arranged increases, thereby reducing the potential difference between a specific region and the discharge electrode (110), thereby preventing a phenomenon in which corona discharge does not occur easily at the discharge electrode (110).

[0152] The above examples are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

[0153] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner having improved charging efficiency of air drawn into the air conditioner.

[0154] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner capable of preventing static electricity and other phenomena that may occur externally by preventing ions from being released to the outside of the air conditioner.

[0155] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner with improved design freedom.

[0156] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner that is miniaturized and cost-effective.

[0157] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0158] An air conditioner according to an example includes a hollow housing extending along a first direction in which outside air is sucked in, a suction panel disposed on one surface of the housing and extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction, a fan disposed inside the housing and generating a flow so that the air sucked in through the suction panel moves along the first direction, a charging device charging an aerosol in the outside air that has passed through the suction panel, and a dust collecting device disposed along the first direction and spaced apart from the charging device with a predetermined gap therebetween so as to capture the charged aerosol, wherein the charging device may include a discharge electrode to which a predetermined voltage is applied and which emits ions, a first ground electrode disposed along a second direction opposite to the first direction and spaced apart from the discharge electrode with a first gap therebetween to form an electric field with the discharge electrode, and a second ground electrode disposed symmetrically with the first ground electrode and with the discharge electrode interposed therebetween to form an electric field with the discharge electrode. According to one example of the present disclosure, there may be various effects including preventing a phenomenon in which the charging efficiency is lowered by reducing the potential difference between the specific region and the discharge electrode by increasing the potential difference in the specific region, thereby preventing corona discharge from occurring easily at the discharge electrode.

[0159] The first ground electrode may include a first hollow portion extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction and a first ground electrode portion extending along a circumference of the first hollow portion, and the second ground electrode may include a second hollow portion extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction and positioned to face the first hollow portion, and a second ground electrode portion extending along a circumference of the second hollow portion.

[0160] A filter member may further be disposed between the suction panel and the first ground electrode. According to one example of the present disclosure, various effects may be achieved, including preventing ions from being discharged to the outside through the suction filter.

[0161] The discharge electrode includes a discharge electrode portion extending along one direction, and the discharge electrode portion can be extended so that one end of the discharge electrode portion is arranged toward the second direction.

[0162] The above discharge electrode includes a discharge electrode portion extending in one direction, and the discharge electrode portion may be extended such that one end of the discharge electrode portion is arranged toward the first direction. According to one example of the present disclosure, various effects may be achieved, including preventing ions discharged from the discharge electrode from being released to the outside.

[0163] The discharge electrode may include a discharge electrode portion extending in one direction, and the discharge electrode portion may be extended such that one end of the discharge electrode portion is arranged toward another direction perpendicular to the first direction. According to one example of the present disclosure, various effects may be achieved, including preventing ions discharged from the discharge electrode from being released to the outside.

[0164] It may further include one or more side electrodes connecting the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode along the first direction.

[0165] The distance between the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode along the first direction may exceed 60 mm.

[0166] At least one of the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode may have a cross-section cut along a plane parallel to the first direction that has either a circular shape or a polygonal shape.

[0167] At least one of the first ground electrode and the second ground electrode may include at least one of a conductive material or a semi-conductive material.

[0168] The discharge electrodes may be provided in a plurality, and may include first discharge electrodes and one or more second discharge electrodes arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a plane perpendicular to the first direction, and may include a first ground electrode assembly having a 1-1 ground electrode arranged to be spaced apart from the first discharge electrode with a first gap therebetween along a second direction opposite to the first direction, and one or more 1-2 ground electrodes arranged to be spaced apart from the one or more second discharge electrodes with a first gap therebetween along a second direction opposite to the first direction; and a second ground electrode assembly having a 2-1 ground electrode arranged to be symmetrical with the 1-1 ground electrode with the first discharge electrode therebetween along the first direction, and one or more 2-2 ground electrodes arranged to be symmetrical with the one or more 1-2 ground electrodes with the one or more second discharge electrodes therebetween along the first direction. According to one example of the present disclosure, there may be various effects including forming a charging area including a plurality of discharge electrodes.

[0169] The above 1-1 ground electrode and the one or more 1-2 ground electrodes may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the one plane with a predetermined interval therebetween, and the 2-1 ground electrode and the one or more 2-2 ground electrodes may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the one plane with a predetermined interval therebetween.

[0170] The above-mentioned first-first ground electrode and the one or more first-second ground electrodes may be provided as an integral body by being mutually coupled, and the above-mentioned second-first ground electrode and the one or more second-second ground electrodes may be provided as an integral body by being mutually coupled. According to one example of the present disclosure, various effects may be achieved, including improved convenience in manufacturing the ground electrode.

[0171] It may further include one or more side electrodes connecting the first ground electrode assembly and the second ground electrode assembly along the first direction.

[0172] The first discharge electrode may include a first discharge electrode portion extending along one direction, and the first discharge electrode portion may be extended such that one end of the first discharge electrode portion is disposed toward the first direction, and each of the one or more second discharge electrodes may include a second discharge electrode portion extending along one direction, and the second discharge electrode portion may be extended such that one end of the second discharge electrode portion is disposed toward the second direction or another direction perpendicular to the first direction. According to one example of the present disclosure, there may be various effects including adjusting the direction of emission of ions depending on the direction of air flow.

[0173] The first ground electrode assembly may be arranged such that the ground electrode conductor extending along one direction is bent a plurality of times to surround the first discharge electrode and the one or more second discharge electrodes when viewed in the first direction, and the second ground electrode assembly may be arranged such that the ground electrode conductor extending along one direction is bent a plurality of times to surround the first discharge electrode and the one or more second discharge electrodes when viewed in the first direction. According to one example of the present disclosure, there may be various effects including improved convenience in manufacturing the ground electrode.

[0174] When viewed from the first direction, the first ground electrode assembly and the second ground electrode assembly may be arranged to be staggered in the first region, and when viewed from the first direction, the first ground electrode assembly and the second ground electrode assembly may be arranged to overlap in the second region excluding the first region. According to one example of the present disclosure, there may be various effects including preventing a phenomenon in which a corona discharge does not occur easily at the discharge electrode, thereby preventing a decrease in charging efficiency, by increasing the potential difference in a specific region, thereby reducing the potential difference between the specific region and the discharge electrode.

[0175] The first end and the second end of the first ground electrode assembly or the second ground electrode assembly may be provided in an open loop configuration so that they are spaced apart from another area by a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance may be 15 mm or less. According to one example of the present disclosure, various effects may be achieved, including improved convenience in manufacturing the ground electrode by excluding the welding process.

[0176] An air conditioner according to an example can improve the charging efficiency of air drawn into the air conditioner.

[0177] An air conditioner according to an example can prevent static electricity phenomena that may occur externally by preventing ions from being released to the outside of the air conditioner.

[0178] Air conditioners, for example, can improve aesthetics by increasing design freedom.

[0179] Air conditioners, for example, can be miniaturized and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0180] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

Claims

1. A hollow housing (11) extending along a first direction in which outside air is sucked in; A suction panel (16) disposed on one side of the housing and extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction; A fan (31) disposed inside the housing and generating a flow so that the air sucked in through the suction panel moves along the first direction; A charging device (100) that charges the aerosol in the external air that has passed through the above suction panel; and It includes a dust collecting device (200) arranged to be spaced apart from the charging device along the first direction with a predetermined gap to capture the charged aerosol; The above-mentioned charging device is, A discharge electrode (110) that emits ions and to which a predetermined voltage is applied; A first ground electrode (120) that is arranged to be spaced apart from the discharge electrode by a first gap along a second direction opposite to the first direction and forms an electric field with the discharge electrode; and A second ground electrode (130) is disposed symmetrically with the first ground electrode, with the discharge electrode interposed therebetween, along the first direction, and forms an electric field with the discharge electrode; Air conditioner.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first ground electrode (120) A first hollow portion (122) extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction; and Including a first ground electrode portion (121) extending along the periphery of the first hollow portion; The above second ground electrode (130) A second hollow portion (132) extending along a plane perpendicular to the first direction and arranged to face the first hollow portion; and Including a second ground electrode portion (131) extending along the periphery of the second hollow portion; Air conditioner.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, Further comprising a filter member (40) disposed between the suction panel and the first ground electrode; Air conditioner.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above discharge electrode (110) includes a discharge electrode portion (111) extending along one direction, The discharge electrode part is extended so that one end of the discharge electrode part is positioned toward the second direction. Air conditioner.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above discharge electrode (110) includes a discharge electrode portion (111) extending along one direction, The discharge electrode part is extended so that one end of the discharge electrode part is positioned toward the first direction. Air conditioner.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above discharge electrode (110) includes a discharge electrode portion (111) extending along one direction, The discharge electrode part is extended so that one end of the discharge electrode part is arranged toward another direction perpendicular to the first direction. Air conditioner.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The distance between the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) along the first direction exceeds 60 mm. Air conditioner.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, At least one of the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) has a cross-section cut along a plane parallel to the first direction that has either a circular shape or a polygonal shape. Air conditioner.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, At least one of the first ground electrode (120) and the second ground electrode (130) includes at least one of a conductive material or a semi-conductive material. Air conditioner.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above discharge electrodes (110) are provided in multiple pieces and include a first discharge electrode and one or more second discharge electrodes arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a plane perpendicular to the first direction. A first ground electrode assembly (1200) having a first-first ground electrode arranged to be spaced apart from the first discharge electrode by a first gap along a second direction opposite to the first direction, and at least one first-second ground electrode arranged to be spaced apart from the at least one second discharge electrode by a first gap along a second direction opposite to the first direction; and A second ground electrode assembly (1300) comprising a second ground electrode assembly (1300) having a second-first ground electrode arranged symmetrically with the first-first ground electrode with the first discharge electrode interposed therebetween along the first direction, and at least one second-second ground electrode arranged symmetrically with the at least one first-2 ground electrode with the at least one second discharge electrode interposed therebetween along the first direction; Air conditioner.

11. In Article 10, The above 1-1 ground electrode and the one or more 1-2 ground electrodes are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other along the above plane at a predetermined interval, The above 2-1 ground electrode and the one or more 2-2 ground electrodes are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other along the one plane at a predetermined interval. Air conditioner.

12. In clause 10 or 11, The above 1-1 ground electrode and the one or more 1-2 ground electrodes are mutually connected and provided as an integral body. The above 2-1 ground electrode and the one or more 2-2 ground electrodes are mutually connected and provided as an integral part. Air conditioner.

13. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 12, The first discharge electrode includes a first discharge electrode portion extending along one direction, and the first discharge electrode portion is extended so that one end of the first discharge electrode portion is arranged toward the first direction. Each of the one or more second discharge electrodes includes a second discharge electrode portion extending along one direction, and the second discharge electrode portion is extended such that one end of the second discharge electrode portion is arranged toward another direction perpendicular to the second direction or the first direction. Air conditioner.

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 13, The above first ground electrode assembly (1200) is arranged so as to surround the first discharge electrode and the one or more second discharge electrodes when viewed in the first direction by bending the ground electrode wire extended along one direction multiple times, The above second ground electrode assembly (1300) is arranged so as to surround the first discharge electrode and the one or more second discharge electrodes when viewed from the first direction by bending the ground electrode wire extended along one direction multiple times. Air conditioner.

15. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 14, When viewed from the first direction, the first ground electrode assembly (1200) and the second ground electrode assembly (1300) are arranged staggered in the first area (151), When viewed from the first direction, the first ground electrode assembly and the second ground electrode assembly are arranged to overlap in the second area (152) excluding the first area. Air conditioner.

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