Cooling method according to cooling capacity and air conditioner based on same

Abstract

Provided are an air conditioner performing a cooling operation according to a cooling capacity selected by a user and a control method for the air conditioner. The air conditioner includes: a compressor; at least one memory storing one or more instructions; and at least one processor. The at least one processor includes a processing circuit individually and / or collectively executing the one or more instructions stored in the memory. The at least one processor may: receive an input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities of the air conditioner as a maximum cooling capacity of the air conditioner; acquire the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity on the basis of the desired temperature set in the air conditioner and the indoor temperature when it is determined that the air conditioner performs output corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity as the cooling capacity; and control the compressor on the basis of the acquired frequency.

Description

Cooling method according to cooling capacity and air conditioner according to it

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof. For example, the present disclosure relates to an air conditioner that cools according to cooling capacity, a control method for the air conditioner, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a computer program for performing the control method for the air conditioner.

[0002] An air conditioner can regulate air conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and cleanliness. Typically, an air conditioner includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator. These components are controlled to compress, condense, expand, and evaporate the refrigerant, thereby driving the refrigerant cycle.

[0003] Additionally, air conditioners have a rated cooling capacity, which indicates the area that the air conditioner can cool in a reference environment. Furthermore, air conditioners may have a rated current consumption, which is the current required to output the rated cooling capacity in a reference environment.

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an air conditioner that performs a cooling operation according to a cooling capacity selected by a user. According to one embodiment, the air conditioner may include a compressor, at least one memory storing one or more instructions, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The at least one processor individually and / or collectively executes one or more instructions stored in the at least one memory, receives a user input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities of the air conditioner as a maximum cooling capacity outputtable by the air conditioner, and determines to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner as the maximum cooling capacity based on a desired temperature set in the air conditioner and an indoor temperature, thereby obtaining a frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity, and controlling the compressor based on the obtained frequency.

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a method for controlling an air conditioner that performs a cooling operation according to a cooling capacity selected by a user. According to one embodiment, the method for controlling an air conditioner may include the steps of: receiving a user input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities of the air conditioner as a maximum cooling capacity that can be output by the air conditioner; determining, based on a desired temperature set in the air conditioner and an indoor temperature, that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner is to be output as the maximum cooling capacity, thereby obtaining a frequency of a compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity; and controlling the compressor based on the obtained frequency.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing a method for controlling an air conditioner on a computer.

[0007] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for setting a maximum cooling capacity of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram showing an exemplary configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to change its maximum cooling capacity according to user input, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to receive user input for selecting a cooling capacity using a user device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method in which an air conditioner performs a cooling operation based on a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to a time interval, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to receive user input for selecting a cooling capacity over a time period using a user device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for providing a user interface for setting a cooling capacity according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for displaying a user interface for setting a cooling capacity upon receiving a user input for selecting a power saving mode by an air conditioner, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to adjust the opening of an expansion valve according to a cooling capacity, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary device structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0020] Below, various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, for the purpose of clearly explaining the present disclosure, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and similar parts are designated by similar reference numerals throughout the disclosure.

[0021] The terms used in this disclosure are described as currently common terms, taking into account the functions mentioned herein. However, these terms may mean various other terms depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be interpreted solely based on their names, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0022] Additionally, while terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another.

[0023] Furthermore, the terminology used in this disclosure is merely used to describe various embodiments and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. The singular expression includes the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, throughout the disclosure, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly connected," but also the case where it is "electrically connected" with another element in between. Furthermore, when a part is said to "include" a certain component, this does not exclude other components unless specifically stated otherwise, but rather means that it can further include other components.

[0024] Phrases such as “in one embodiment” appearing in various places in this disclosure do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner that cools according to a cooling capacity set by a user and a method for controlling the air conditioner.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for setting a maximum cooling capacity of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1, the air conditioner (1000) can receive an input (e.g., user input) for selecting a maximum cooling capacity and perform cooling operation based on the selected cooling capacity.

[0028] Cooling capacity can indicate the degree to which the air conditioner (1000) can cool the surrounding air. Cooling capacity can be expressed in power, and in a standard environment, it is approximately 400W for 3.3m 2 Since the cooling capacity can be converted into the area of ​​the space that can be cooled, the cooling capacity can be referred to as cooling capacity. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cooling capacity can be referred to as cooling capacity.

[0029] The maximum cooling capacity may represent, for example, the maximum range of cooling capacity that the air conditioner (1000) will output, set by the user.

[0030] The fact that the air conditioner (1000) outputs cooling capacity may mean, for example, that it cools an area of ​​space corresponding to the cooling capacity by operating at a current and compressor frequency corresponding to the cooling capacity.

[0031] In response to the air conditioner (1000), the actual maximum cooling capacity and the rated cooling capacity may be predetermined (e.g., designated) and stored in the air conditioner (1000). The rated cooling capacity may be the highest value of the cooling capacity that the air conditioner (1000) can output while satisfying the predetermined energy consumption efficiency in a reference environment. In addition, the actual maximum cooling capacity may be the cooling capacity that the air conditioner (1000) can actually output at its maximum even if the energy consumption efficiency is lower than the predetermined energy consumption efficiency in the reference environment.

[0032] The air conditioner (1000) may perform cooling operation exceeding its rated cooling capacity. In this case, the air conditioner (1000) may cool the surrounding air more quickly than when operating at its rated cooling capacity, but its energy consumption efficiency may decrease.

[0033] Additionally, the air conditioner (1000) may perform cooling operation at a capacity lower than the rated cooling capacity. In this case, the cooling speed of the air conditioner (1000) may be slower than when operating at the rated cooling capacity, but energy consumption efficiency may increase.

[0034] The air conditioner (1000) may have a plurality of cooling capacities preset and selectable by the user. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input for selecting one of the plurality of cooling capacities.

[0035] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input from the remote controller (3000) to select one of a plurality of cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity. In this case, the remote controller (3000) may display a user interface (10) for setting the cooling capacity.

[0036] The user interface (10) may include multiple cooling capacities as optional selections. The multiple cooling capacities may include a rated cooling capacity ('rated' in FIG. 1), a cooling capacity exceeding the rated cooling capacity ('high performance' in FIG. 1), and a cooling capacity less than the rated cooling capacity ('high efficiency' in FIG. 1).

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of cooling capacities displayed on the user interface (10) may be displayed as a percentage of the rated cooling capacity. For example, each of the plurality of cooling capacities may be displayed as 110%, 100%, 90%, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0038] Additionally, the air conditioner (1000) can display the rated cooling capacity or the maximum cooling capacity currently set in the air conditioner (1000) on the user interface (10).

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (1000) is an inverter-type air conditioner (1000) that outputs different cooling capacities according to time sections, the air conditioner (1000) may provide a user interface (10) for selecting a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to each time section. For example, the user interface (10) may include a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity for a section in which the indoor temperature drops to a desired temperature and a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity for a section in which the indoor temperature is maintained after reaching the desired temperature.

[0040] The remote controller (3000) can receive a user input for selecting one of multiple cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the remote controller (3000) can receive a user input for selecting one of 'high performance', 'rated', and 'high efficiency' using the direction buttons (3100) and the confirmation button.

[0041] Upon receiving a user input selecting one of multiple cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity, the remote controller (3000) can transmit information about the selected cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000).

[0042] Additionally, for example, the air conditioner (1000) may display a user interface for setting a maximum cooling capacity on the display of the air conditioner (1000) and receive user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity through the user interface. Additionally, for example, the air conditioner (1000) may receive information regarding the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user from a user device through a server.

[0043] The air conditioner (1000) can determine whether to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) at the maximum cooling capacity based on the desired temperature and the indoor temperature set by the user. For example, based on detecting that the difference between the indoor temperature and the desired temperature is greater than a reference difference (e.g., 2°C), the air conditioner (1000) can determine to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) at the maximum cooling capacity.

[0044] Based on determining that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) is to be output at the maximum cooling capacity, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain a compressor frequency corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain an air volume corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity.

[0045] The air conditioner (1000) can operate the compressor based on the compressor frequency corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can control the fan motor so that wind is discharged at a wind volume corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can determine a target suction superheat of the air conditioner (1000) based on a frequency of the compressor, a maximum cooling capacity, and an outdoor temperature, and can adjust the opening of the expansion valve based on the determined target suction superheat.

[0047] The air conditioner (1000) can provide the effect of adjusting the cooling speed, coolness, and energy saving rate without adjusting the desired temperature or together with the desired temperature by providing the function of selecting the maximum cooling capacity.

[0048] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram showing an exemplary configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, the air conditioner (1000) may include a processor (e.g., processing circuitry, 1100), memory (1400), and a compressor (1910).

[0050] The processor (1100) includes various processing circuits and can typically control the overall operation of the air conditioner (1000). The processor (1100) can control the compressor (1910) by executing programs stored in the memory (1400). The processor (1100) according to various embodiments may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used in this disclosure, including the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processors may be configured to individually and / or collectively perform the various functions described herein in a distributed manner. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform various functions, these terms encompass, for example, without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the recited functions and other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions. Additionally, at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform the various functions enumerated / disclosed, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform the various functions.

[0051] The memory (1400) stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the air conditioner (1000). The memory (1400) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0052] The memory (1400) can store multiple cooling capacities selectable by the user. The multiple cooling capacities selectable by the user may be values ​​lower than the actual maximum cooling capacity, which is the maximum cooling capacity that the air conditioner (1000) can output.

[0053] In addition, the memory (1400) can store the frequency of the compressor (1910) and the output of the fan motor corresponding to each of the plurality of cooling capacities. In addition, since the energy consumption efficiency may change depending on the usage environment of the air conditioner (1000), the frequency for outputting the same cooling capacity may be determined as a frequency range having multiple values ​​rather than a single value. For example, the frequency range may be determined so that the higher the outdoor temperature of the air conditioner (1000), the higher the frequency corresponding to the same cooling capacity.

[0054] The frequency of the compressor (1910) and the output of the fan motor corresponding to each of the plurality of cooling capacities can be experimentally determined.

[0055] The processor (1100) may receive a user input for selecting one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity. For example, the air conditioner (1000) may include a display (not shown) and an input interface (not shown), and the processor (1100) may display a user interface indicating a plurality of selectable cooling capacities through the display, and the processor (1100) may directly receive a user input for selecting one of the plurality of selectable cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity through the input interface.

[0056] Additionally, for example, the processor (1100) may receive user input from a remote controller via a short-range wireless communication module (not shown) to select one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity.

[0057] Additionally, for example, the processor (1100) may receive information about the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user, for example, from a server.

[0058] The compressor (1910) can compress the refrigerant by increasing the pressure of the refrigerant by receiving power from a power generation device such as an electric motor.

[0059] The processor (1100) can obtain the frequency of the compressor (1910) corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity. In addition, the processor (1100) can control the compressor (1910) to operate at the obtained frequency of the compressor (1910). As the output cooling capacity increases, the frequency of the compressor (1910) can also increase.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to change its maximum cooling capacity according to user input, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0061] In step S310, the air conditioner (1000) can receive a user input for selecting one of the plurality of selectable cooling capacities of the air conditioner (1000) as the maximum cooling capacity outputtable by the air conditioner (1000).

[0062] For example, the air conditioner (1000) may display a user interface for setting the maximum cooling capacity on the display of the air conditioner (1000) and receive a user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity through the input interface. In addition, for example, the air conditioner (1000) may receive information about the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user from a server. In addition, for example, the air conditioner (1000) may receive information about the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user from a remote controller.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in the case of a system air conditioner (1000) in which a plurality of indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit, the air conditioner (1000) can receive a user input for setting a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to each indoor unit.

[0064] In step S320, based on the desired temperature and indoor temperature set in the air conditioner (1000), it is determined that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) will be output as the maximum cooling capacity, and thus the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity can be obtained.

[0065] The air conditioner (1000) can determine whether to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity based on the set desired temperature and indoor temperature.

[0066] For example, when a user input to turn on the power is received, the air conditioner (1000) may determine to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity based on detecting that the difference between the indoor temperature and the default desired temperature is greater than or equal to a reference difference (e.g., 2°C).

[0067] Additionally, for example, when receiving a user input for changing a desired temperature, the air conditioner (1000) may determine to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity based on detecting that the difference between the changed desired temperature and the indoor temperature is greater than or equal to a reference difference (e.g., 1°C).

[0068] Additionally, for example, based on determining that the indoor temperature is greater than the desired temperature, the air conditioner (1000) may determine to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity.

[0069] The air conditioner (1000) can obtain the frequency of the compressor and the output of the fan motor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity based on determining that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) is to be output as the maximum cooling capacity.

[0070] The air conditioner (1000) can store information regarding a plurality of selectable cooling capacities. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can store compressor frequency and air volume corresponding to each of the plurality of selectable cooling capacities. For each of the plurality of cooling capacities, the frequency of the compressor for outputting the cooling capacity can be experimentally determined and stored in the air conditioner (1000).

[0071] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the frequency of the compressor for cooling capacity may be a frequency range having continuous values ​​determined according to the usage environment of the air conditioner (1000).

[0072] Additionally, for each of multiple cooling capacities, the output of the fan motor corresponding to the cooling capacity can be experimentally determined and stored. As the cooling capacity increases, the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the cooling capacity increases, and the output of the fan motor can also increase.

[0073] In step S330, the air conditioner (1000) can control the compressor based on the acquired frequency.

[0074] The air conditioner (1000) can control the compressor to operate at the acquired frequency and control the fan motor based on the acquired output of the fan motor, thereby discharging wind of an amount of wind corresponding to the selected cooling capacity.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to receive user input for selecting a cooling capacity using a user device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 4, the user device (2000) may provide a user interface (400) for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities. The air conditioner (1000) may receive the cooling capacity selected by the user from the user device (2000).

[0077] The user interface (400) may display a phrase (410) or image indicating that the maximum cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) can be set.

[0078] The user interface (400) may include a user interface (420) for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities that may be selected by a user. The plurality of cooling capacities may include a rated cooling capacity (421). Additionally, the plurality of cooling capacities may include cooling capacities greater than the rated cooling capacity (421) (e.g., 110% of FIG. 4) and cooling capacities less than the rated cooling capacity (421) (e.g., 90%, 80%, and 70% of FIG. 4).

[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 4, a plurality of cooling capacities can be displayed as a ratio to the rated cooling capacity (421). In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can display the currently set cooling capacity (423) to distinguish it from other cooling capacities.

[0080] Additionally, the user interface (400) may include phrases (440, 450) or images that describe the effects that may occur when the cooling capacity is selected. For example, the user interface (400) may include phrases (440) indicating that as the cooling capacity increases, the cooling performance increases, the cooling speed may increase, and colder air is discharged, and phrases (450) indicating that as the cooling capacity decreases, energy consumption efficiency increases, the energy saving rate increases, and less cold air is discharged.

[0081] The user device (2000) may transmit information regarding the selected cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000). For example, upon receiving a user input selecting the maximum cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) as 110% of the rated cooling capacity, the user device (2000) may transmit to the server a user account, the selected cooling capacity, and information indicating that the selected cooling capacity has been selected as the maximum cooling capacity.

[0082] The server may store identification information of the user device (2000) and identification information of the user's air conditioner (1000) corresponding to the user account. The server may obtain identification information of the user's air conditioner (1000) corresponding to the received user account, and based on the obtained identification information of the air conditioner (1000), transmit to the air conditioner (1000) a selected cooling capacity and information indicating that the selected cooling capacity has been selected as the maximum cooling capacity.

[0083] The air conditioner (1000) can determine to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity based on the desired temperature and the indoor temperature. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain the frequency and air volume of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity received from the server, and control the compressor and fan motor based on the obtained frequency and air volume of the compressor.

[0084] For example, in the case of an air conditioner (1000) that always operates at maximum cooling capacity when the indoor temperature is higher than the desired temperature (e.g., a fixed-speed air conditioner (1000)), the air conditioner (1000) may change the frequency of the compressor to a frequency corresponding to 110% of the rated cooling capacity and control the fan motor according to the air volume corresponding to 110% of the rated cooling capacity based on receiving a user input for changing the maximum cooling capacity to 110% of the rated cooling capacity during operation according to the rated cooling capacity. Accordingly, the user may control the air conditioner (1000) to discharge cooler air and increase the cooling speed even without changing the desired temperature.

[0085] FIG. 5A is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method in which an air conditioner performs a cooling operation based on a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to a time interval, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] In step S510, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input setting a maximum cooling capacity for one of a plurality of time intervals.

[0087] For example, the plurality of time intervals may include a first interval in which the indoor temperature is lowered to a desired temperature upon receipt of user input setting the desired temperature, and a second interval in which the indoor temperature is maintained after the indoor temperature reaches the desired temperature.

[0088] Additionally, for example, the plurality of time intervals may include a first interval in which the indoor temperature is lowered to a default desired temperature when a user input to turn on the power is received, and a second interval in which the indoor temperature is maintained after the indoor temperature reaches the default desired temperature.

[0089] Additionally, for example, the plurality of time intervals may include a first interval for lowering the indoor temperature to a desired temperature when the indoor temperature increases and a difference between the indoor temperature and the desired temperature is detected to be greater than a reference difference, and a second interval for maintaining the indoor temperature after the indoor temperature reaches the desired temperature.

[0090] In step S520, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the time section based on the desired temperature and the indoor temperature set in the air conditioner (1000).

[0091] For example, when a user input for turning on the power is received for multiple time intervals, a first interval for dropping the indoor temperature to a default desired temperature and a second interval for maintaining the indoor temperature after the indoor temperature reaches the default desired temperature, when a user input for turning on the power is received, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the default desired temperature is greater than or equal to the reference difference corresponding to the first interval.

[0092] Based on determining that the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the desired temperature is greater than or equal to the reference difference corresponding to the first section, the air conditioner (1000) may determine to output the cooling capacity as the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the first time section.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the indoor temperature reaches the desired temperature, the air conditioner (1000) may be determined to operate at the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the second section.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the indoor temperature reaches the desired temperature, the air conditioner (1000) may operate with a predetermined cooling capacity corresponding to the second section, and while operating with the predetermined cooling capacity, may determine that the temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the desired temperature is greater than or equal to the reference difference corresponding to the second section, and may determine to output the cooling capacity as the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the second section.

[0095] In step S530, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity of the time section by determining that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) is to be output as the maximum cooling capacity.

[0096] In step S540, the air conditioner (1000) can control the compressor based on the acquired frequency.

[0097] FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary method for an air conditioner to receive user input for selecting a cooling capacity over a time period using a user device, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5b, the user device (2000) may provide a user interface (500) for selecting a cooling capacity according to a time interval.

[0099] An inverter-type air conditioner (1000) can cool with a high cooling capacity in a first section when the indoor temperature is lowered to the desired temperature when the desired temperature is set, while continuing to cool with a cooling capacity lower than the cooling capacity of the first section in a second section when the indoor temperature is maintained after reaching the desired temperature. For example, the cooling capacity corresponding to the first section can be the rated cooling capacity, and the cooling capacity corresponding to the second section can be 80% of the rated cooling capacity.

[0100] A user interface (500) for selecting cooling capacity according to a time interval may include text (510) or an image indicating that the maximum cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) can be set according to a time interval.

[0101] A user interface (500) for selecting a cooling capacity according to a time interval may include a user interface (520) for setting a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to a first interval and a user interface (530) for setting a maximum cooling capacity corresponding to a second interval.

[0102] The user device (2000) can receive a user input for selecting a maximum cooling capacity of a first section and a maximum cooling capacity of a second section, and can transmit identification information of each time section and the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user in each time section to the air conditioner (1000) through the server. The air conditioner (1000) can obtain a compressor frequency and air volume corresponding to the selected maximum cooling capacity for each time section, and perform a cooling operation based on the obtained compressor frequency and air volume.

[0103] For example, when a user input is received to select 110% of the maximum cooling capacity for the first section and 70% of the maximum cooling capacity for the second section, the air conditioner (1000) may perform a cooling operation based on the frequency and air volume of the compressor corresponding to 110% based on determining that it will operate at the maximum cooling capacity in the first section to lower the indoor temperature to a desired temperature. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may perform a cooling operation based on the frequency and air volume of the compressor corresponding to 70% based on determining that it will operate at the maximum cooling capacity in the second section in which the indoor temperature is maintained after reaching the desired temperature.

[0104] Accordingly, the user can increase the cooling speed by increasing the cooling capacity in the section where the indoor temperature is lowered to the desired temperature, and increase the energy saving rate by decreasing the cooling capacity in the section where the indoor temperature is maintained. Furthermore, if the user feels that the indoor temperature is not cool enough in the section where the indoor temperature is maintained, the user can control the air conditioner (1000) to emit cooler air by increasing the cooling capacity without changing the desired temperature.

[0105] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for providing a user interface for setting a cooling capacity according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0106] In step S610, the air conditioner (1000) can receive user input for setting a desired temperature.

[0107] While the air conditioner (1000) is performing cooling operation, the air conditioner (1000) can receive user input for setting a desired temperature through an input interface.

[0108] In step S620, the air conditioner (1000) may display a user interface including a plurality of selectable cooling capacities when a user input for setting a desired temperature is received.

[0109] The air conditioner (1000) can display a user interface including a plurality of cooling capacities selectable through the display when a user input for setting a desired temperature is received.

[0110] In this case, the air conditioner (1000) may display an image indicating the rated cooling capacity corresponding to the rated cooling capacity among the plurality of cooling capacities. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may display an image indicating the currently set maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the currently set maximum cooling capacity among the plurality of cooling capacities.

[0111] Users may often change their desired temperature when cooling speed is slow or when they feel the actual cooling temperature is higher than the displayed temperature after reaching the desired temperature. By providing a user interface for selecting the maximum cooling capacity when receiving user input for selecting the desired temperature, users can change the cooling capacity along with the desired temperature, or change only the cooling capacity without changing the desired temperature.

[0112] In step S630, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity. In step S640, the air conditioner (1000) may perform a cooling operation based on the selected maximum cooling capacity. Steps S630 and S640 may be described with reference to steps S310 to S330 of FIG. 3.

[0113] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a button for setting a desired temperature is pressed, the remote controller may display a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity. Furthermore, upon receiving a user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity, the remote controller may transmit information regarding the selected maximum cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000).

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user input for changing a desired temperature is received, the user device may display a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity. Furthermore, upon receiving the user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity, the user device may transmit information regarding the selected maximum cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000).

[0115] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for displaying a user interface for setting a cooling capacity upon receiving a user input for selecting a power saving mode by an air conditioner, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0116] In step S710, the air conditioner (1000) can receive a user input selecting a power saving mode.

[0117] While the air conditioner (1000) is performing cooling operation, the air conditioner (1000) can receive a user input for selecting a power saving mode through an input interface. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can receive a user input for selecting a power saving mode in a section where the indoor temperature is maintained at a desired temperature.

[0118] In step S720, when a user input for selecting a power saving mode of the air conditioner (1000) is received, the air conditioner (1000) can display a user interface including a plurality of selectable cooling capacities.

[0119] When a user input for selecting a power saving mode is received, the air conditioner (1000) may display a user interface including a plurality of selectable cooling capacities via the display. In this case, the plurality of selectable cooling capacities may only include cooling capacities less than the rated cooling capacity.

[0120] The air conditioner (1000) can display an image representing the rated cooling capacity and an image representing the currently set cooling capacity on the user interface.

[0121] When a user input for selecting a power saving mode is received, the air conditioner (1000) displays a user interface including a plurality of selectable cooling capacities, thereby allowing the user to select the degree of power saving when selecting the power saving mode.

[0122] In step S730, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity. In step S740, the air conditioner (1000) may perform a cooling operation based on the selected cooling capacity. Steps S730 and S740 may be described with reference to steps S310 to S330 of FIG. 3.

[0123] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user input for selecting a power-saving mode of the air conditioner (1000) is received, the remote controller may display a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity. Furthermore, based on receiving the user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity, the remote controller may transmit information regarding the selected maximum cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000).

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user input for selecting a power saving mode of the air conditioner (1000) is received, the user device may display a user interface for selecting a maximum cooling capacity. Furthermore, based on receiving the user input for selecting the maximum cooling capacity, the user device may transmit information regarding the maximum selected cooling capacity to the air conditioner (1000).

[0125] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for controlling the opening of an expansion valve according to a cooling capacity of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary device structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0126] In step S810, the air conditioner (1000) may receive a user input for selecting one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities of the air conditioner (1000) as the maximum cooling capacity outputtable by the air conditioner (1000).

[0127] Step S810 can be described with reference to step S310 of FIG. 3 and step S510 of FIG. 5a.

[0128] In step S815, the air conditioner (1000) determines to output the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) to the maximum cooling capacity based on the desired temperature and the indoor temperature set in the air conditioner (1000), and thus obtains the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity.

[0129] Step S815 can be described with reference to step S320 of FIG. 3 and steps S520 to S530 of FIG. 5a.

[0130] In step S820, the air conditioner (1000) can determine a target suction superheat of the air conditioner (1000) based on the maximum cooling capacity, the frequency of the compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity, and the outdoor temperature.

[0131] Superheat can refer to the degree to which liquid that has not yet been vaporized in the evaporator is prevented from mixing into the compressor.

[0132] The air conditioner (1000) may include a target suction superheat calculation module for determining a target suction superheat of the air conditioner (1000) based on a maximum cooling capacity, a frequency of a compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity, and an outdoor temperature.

[0133] For example, the target suction superheat can be determined by Equation (1), which is expressed as Target suction superheat = C1* f1 (compressor frequency corresponding to maximum cooling capacity) + C2*f2 (outdoor temperature) + f3 (maximum cooling capacity) + C3. Each coefficient (e.g., C1, C2, and C3) in Equation (1) can be determined experimentally.

[0134] Additionally, the coefficients of equation (1) can be determined based on an artificial intelligence model.

[0135] In step S830, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the target suction superheat is less than the current superheat.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 9, the air conditioner (1000) may include an indoor unit (1800) and an outdoor unit (1900). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may include a plurality of indoor units (1800).

[0137] The outdoor unit (1900) of the air conditioner (1000) may include a 4-way valve (1950), a compressor (1910), an outdoor heat exchanger (1920), a plate-type heat exchanger (1970), a main electric expansion valve (1931, 1932) and an economizer vapor injection electric expansion valve (1933), an accumulator (1960), a piping connection (service valve (1991, 1993), and a receiver (1995).

[0138] Additionally, the outdoor unit (1900) may include a suction-side low pressure sensor (1943) and a discharge-side high pressure sensor (1941) of the compressor. Additionally, the outdoor unit (1900) may include a suction-side temperature sensor (1944) and a discharge-side temperature sensor (1942) of the compressor.

[0139] EEV can mean, for example, an electronic expansion valve, a device that regulates the flow of refrigerant.

[0140] Additionally, the main EEV (e.g., 1931, 1932) may include a main EEV1 (1931) that adjusts the opening so that the refrigerant can expand in heating mode and a main EEV2 (1932) that adjusts the opening so that the refrigerant can expand in cooling mode.

[0141] Additionally, the indoor unit (1800) of the air conditioner (1000) may include an indoor heat exchanger (1820) and a fan motor (1810).

[0142] In the cooling mode where the outdoor heat exchanger (1920) operates as a condenser and the indoor heat exchanger (1820) operates as an evaporator, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor heat exchanger (1820) and flows to the accumulator (1960) through the changeover valve (1950) in a gaseous state at room temperature and low pressure.

[0143] The accumulator (1960) can control the refrigerant so that only the gaseous refrigerant from the indoor heat exchanger (1820) is sucked into the compressor (1910), and the liquid refrigerant stagnates in the accumulator (1960).

[0144] The refrigerant in a gaseous state of low pressure and room temperature that has passed through the accumulator (1960) is sucked into the compressor (1910). The refrigerant sucked into the compressor (1910) is changed into a gaseous state of high pressure and high temperature by the compressor (1910) and flows to the outdoor heat exchanger (1920) through the switching valve (1950).

[0145] The refrigerant, which is in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state, releases heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (1920) and changes into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state.

[0146] The refrigerant in a liquid state at room temperature and high pressure flows through the main EEV2 (1932) to the indoor heat exchanger (1820) in a liquid state at low temperature and low pressure, and absorbs heat in the indoor heat exchanger (1820) to change back into a gaseous state at room temperature and low pressure.

[0147] The optimal amount of refrigerant in heating mode should be less than that in cooling mode, and the receiver (1995) is a device that can store the remaining refrigerant in heating mode. The pipe connection (service valve, 1991, 1993) can connect the indoor unit (1800) and the outdoor unit (1900).

[0148] The air conditioner (1000) can calculate the difference (T2-T1) between the suction temperature (T2) of the refrigerant and the saturation temperature (T1) at low pressure as the current superheat. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the suction temperature (T2) of the refrigerant through the suction-side temperature sensor (1944), detect the pressure (PL) through the suction-side low-pressure sensor (1943), and calculate the difference (T2-T1) between the suction temperature (T2) of the refrigerant and the saturation temperature (T1) at the detected pressure (PL) as the current superheat.

[0149] Based on determining in step S830 that the current superheat is greater than the target suction superheat, in step S840, the air conditioner (1000) may increase the opening of the main EEV.

[0150] If the current superheat is greater than the target suction superheat, it is determined that the refrigerant is overheated, and the air conditioner (1000) opens the main EEV2 (1932) to increase the flow rate of the refrigerant, thereby matching the current superheat with the target suction superheat.

[0151] Based on determining in step S830 that the current superheat is less than the target suction superheat, in step S860, the air conditioner (1000) may reduce the opening of the main EEV.

[0152] If the current superheat is less than the target suction superheat, the air conditioner (1000) can reduce the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) to reduce the flow rate of the refrigerant so that all possible refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (1820) can be converted into a gaseous state.

[0153] If the current superheat is equal to the target suction superheat, the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) can be maintained without change.

[0154] In step S850, the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the opening degree of the EVI EEV according to the adjustment of the opening degree of the main EEV.

[0155] For example, as the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) of FIG. 9 decreases, a portion of the refrigerant output from the outdoor heat exchanger (1920) must flow to the EVI EEV (1933), so the air conditioner (1000) can increase the opening of the EVI EEV (1933).

[0156] Additionally, as the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) increases, some of the refrigerant flowing to the EVI EEV (1933) must flow to the main EEV2 (1932), so the air conditioner (1000) can reduce the opening of the EVI EEV (1933).

[0157] In step S870, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the cooling capacity, outdoor temperature, or compressor frequency has changed.

[0158] Based on determining that the cooling capacity, outdoor temperature, or compressor frequency has changed, the air conditioner (1000) may return to step S820 and re-determine the target suction superheat.

[0159] The air conditioner (1000) can adjust the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) and EVI EEV (1933) based on the determined target suction superheat.

[0160] Based on determining that the cooling capacity, outdoor temperature and compressor frequency have not changed, the air conditioner (1000) returns to step S830, compares the target suction superheat and the current superheat, and based on the comparison result, adjusts the opening of the main EEV2 (1932) and EVI EEV (1933).

[0161] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 10, the air conditioner (1000) may include a processor (e.g., including a processing circuit, 1100), an output module (e.g., including an output circuit, 1300), a memory (1400), a communication module (e.g., including a communication circuit, 1500), a sensor (1600), an input interface (e.g., including an input circuit, 1700), an indoor module (e.g., including an indoor air conditioner component, 1805), and an outdoor module (e.g., including an outdoor air conditioner component, 1905). The same reference numbers have been used for the same configurations as those illustrated in FIG. 2. Also, the same reference numbers have been used for the same configurations as those illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0163] Not all of the components illustrated are essential components of the air conditioner (1000). The air conditioner (1000) may be implemented with more components than those illustrated in FIG. 10, or may be implemented with fewer components than those illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0164] The processor (1100) includes various processing circuits and can control the overall operation of the air conditioner (1000). The processor (1100) can control the output module (1300), the communication module (1500), the sensor (1600), the input interface (1700), the indoor module (1805), and the outdoor module (1905), for example, by executing at least one instruction or program stored in the memory (1400).

[0165] The processor (1100) may include a separate NPU that performs the operation of the machine learning model. In addition, the processor (1100) may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processor (GPU), etc. The processor (1100) according to various embodiments may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used in this disclosure, including the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor may be configured to individually and / or collectively perform the various functions described herein in a distributed manner. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform various functions, these terms encompass, for example, without limitation, a situation where one processor performs some of the recited functions and other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, and a situation where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions. Additionally, at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform the various functions enumerated / disclosed, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform the various functions.

[0166] The memory (1400) stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the air conditioner (1000). The memory (1400) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory (1400) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may also operate a web storage or cloud server that performs a storage function on the Internet.

[0167] At least one processor (1100) and at least one memory (1400) may be included in one control unit. For example, at least one processor (1100) and at least one memory (1400) may be included in one microcontroller unit (MCU).

[0168] The communication module (1500) includes various communication circuits and, based on the control of the processor (1100), can transmit and receive information with an external device or external server according to a protocol. The communication module (1500) can include at least one communication module and at least one port for transmitting and receiving data with an external device (not shown).

[0169] Additionally, the communication module (1500) can communicate with an external device via at least one wired or wireless communication network. The communication module (1500) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module, or a combination thereof. The communication module (1500) may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with another device.

[0170] The short-range communication module may include at least one communication module (not shown) that performs communication according to a communication standard such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), NFC / RFID, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, infrared communication, or ZIGBEE. In addition, the long-range communication module may include a communication module (not shown) that performs communication via a network for Internet communication. In addition, the long-range communication module may include a mobile communication module that performs communication according to a communication standard such as 3G, 4G, 5G, and / or 6G.

[0171] The output module (1300) includes various output circuits and may include, for example, without limitation, a display (1310) and an audio output module (1320).

[0172] The display (1310) can output image data processed by an image processing unit (not shown) through a display panel (not shown) under the control of the processor (1100). The display panel (not shown) can include at least one of a liquid crystal display, a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode, a flexible display, a 3D display, and an electrophoretic display.

[0173] The audio output module (1320) can output audio signals to the outside of the air conditioner (1000). The audio output module (1320) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback.

[0174] The input interface (1700) can receive user input for controlling the air conditioner (1000). The input interface (1700) receives the user input and transmits it to the processor (1100).

[0175] The input interface (1700) includes various input circuits and may include, but is not limited to, user input electronic devices including a touch panel that detects a user's touch, a button that receives a user's push operation, a wheel that receives a user's rotation operation, a keyboard, and a dome switch.

[0176] Additionally, the input interface (1700) may include a voice recognition device for voice recognition. For example, the voice recognition device may be a microphone (1710), and the voice recognition device may receive a user's voice command or voice request. Accordingly, the processor (1100) may control an operation corresponding to the voice command or voice request to be performed.

[0177] Additionally, the input interface (1700) may include a remote control receiver (1720) capable of receiving control commands from a remote controller (not shown) located at a close distance. The remote control receiver (1720) may include an IR (infrared) communication module, etc.

[0178] The indoor module (1805) may include various indoor air conditioning components, including, but not limited to, a fan motor (1810) and an indoor heat exchanger (1820). Additionally, the outdoor module (1905) may include a compressor (1910), an outdoor heat exchanger (1920), and an expansion valve (1930).

[0179] The compressor (1910) can compress the refrigerant.

[0180] When operating in cooling mode, the refrigerant compressed to high temperature and high pressure by the compressor (1910) circulates through a cooling cycle within the air conditioner (1000), and the air conditioner (1000) can cool the air around the indoor heat exchanger (1820) by absorbing heat through the indoor heat exchanger (1820). In this case, the indoor heat exchanger (1820) may be referred to as an evaporator. Additionally, the refrigerant that has absorbed heat may release heat in the outdoor heat exchanger (1920). In this case, the outdoor heat exchanger (1920) may be referred to as a condenser.

[0181] An expansion valve (1930) can control the flow rate of the refrigerant. The expansion valve (130) can include a main EEV1 (1931), a main EEV2 (1932), and an EVI EEV (1933), which are described and illustrated in detail with reference to FIG. 9.

[0182] Additionally, the fan motor (1810) can rotate a blower fan (not shown) to discharge air cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (1820) to the outside of the air conditioner (1000). The rotation speed (e.g., rotations per minute) of the fan motor (1810) can be adjusted according to the control of the processor (1100).

[0183] Additionally, the indoor module (1805) may include blades (not shown). The air conditioner (1000) can change the direction of wind discharge up and down or left and right by moving the blades.

[0184] The sensor (1600) may include various types of sensors.

[0185] The sensor (1600) may include a temperature sensor (1610), a pressure sensor (1620), and a humidity sensor (1630).

[0186] The air conditioner (1000) may include a plurality of temperature sensors (1610) and a plurality of pressure sensors (1620).

[0187] For example, the plurality of temperature sensors (1610) may include, but are not limited to, a temperature sensor provided on a panel of an air conditioner (1000) to detect an indoor temperature, a temperature sensor provided on an outdoor unit to detect an outdoor temperature, a temperature sensor on the suction side of a compressor (1944 in FIG. 9) and a temperature sensor on the discharge side of a compressor (1942 in FIG. 9).

[0188] Additionally, for example, the plurality of pressure sensors (1620) may include a suction-side low pressure sensor of the compressor (1943 of FIG. 9) and a discharge-side high pressure sensor of the compressor (1941 of FIG. 9).

[0189] The humidity sensor (1630) can detect the humidity of indoor air.

[0190] At least one processor (1100) may receive user input selecting one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities of the air conditioner (1000) as the maximum cooling capacity outputtable by the air conditioner (1000).

[0191] For example, at least one processor (1100) may receive a user input for selecting a maximum cooling capacity through a touch panel, a microphone (1710), or a remote control receiver (1720) of an input interface (1700). Additionally, for example, at least one processor (1100) may receive information about the maximum cooling capacity selected by the user from a server through a communication module (1500).

[0192] At least one processor (1100) can detect the indoor temperature through a temperature sensor (1610).

[0193] At least one processor (1100) can obtain a frequency of the compressor (1910) corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity by determining that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) is to be output as the maximum cooling capacity based on the desired temperature set in the air conditioner (1000) and the indoor temperature.

[0194] At least one processor (1100) can control the compressor (1910) to operate at the acquired frequency.

[0195] At least one processor (1100) can determine a target suction superheat of the air conditioner (1000) based on the acquired frequency, the selected maximum cooling capacity, and the outdoor temperature.

[0196] At least one processor (1100) can adjust the opening of the expansion valve (1930) based on the determined target suction superheat.

[0197] At least one processor (1100) can obtain a rotation speed of the fan motor (1810) corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity and control the fan motor (1810) to operate at the obtained rotation speed.

[0198] At least one processor (1100) can display a plurality of cooling capacities as a percentage of the rated cooling capacity via the display (1310).

[0199] At least one processor (1100) can display an image indicating the rated cooling capacity corresponding to the rated cooling capacity among the plurality of cooling capacities through the display (1310).

[0200] At least one processor (1100) can receive a user input via the input interface (1700) to select one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity for a period in which the indoor temperature drops to a desired temperature.

[0201] Additionally, at least one processor (1100) can receive, from the server, information on the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the section in which the indoor temperature drops to the desired temperature, set by the user, through the communication module (1500).

[0202] At least one processor (1100) may receive a user input via the input interface (1700) to select one of a plurality of selectable cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity for a period of time during which the indoor temperature is maintained after reaching the desired temperature.

[0203] Additionally, at least one processor (1100) can receive, from the server, information on the maximum cooling capacity corresponding to the section for maintaining the indoor temperature after the indoor temperature reaches the desired temperature, set by the user, through the communication module (1500).

[0204] At least one processor (1100) can display a user interface including a plurality of cooling capacities via the display (1310) when a user input for adjusting a desired temperature of the air conditioner (1000) is received.

[0205] At least one processor (1100) can display a user interface including a plurality of cooling capacities via the display (1310) when a user input is received selecting a power saving mode of the air conditioner (1000).

[0206] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, a "non-transitory storage medium" refers to a tangible device and may not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). The term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0208] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the various exemplary embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Claims

1. In the air conditioner (1000), Compressor (1910); At least one memory (1400) storing one or more instructions; and At least one processor (1100) comprising a processing circuit that individually and / or collectively executes one or more instructions stored in the memory (1400), wherein the at least one processor, Receiving an input for selecting one of the plurality of cooling capacities of the air conditioner (1000) as the maximum cooling capacity that can be output by the air conditioner (1000); Based on the desired temperature and indoor temperature set in the air conditioner (1000), the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (1000) is determined to be output as the maximum cooling capacity, thereby obtaining the frequency of the compressor (1910) corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity. An air conditioner (1000) that controls the compressor (1910) based on the acquired frequency.

2. In paragraph 1, The above air conditioner comprises an expansion valve, The above at least one processor individually and / or collectively, Controlling the compressor to operate at the acquired frequency, Determine the target suction superheat of the air conditioner based on the acquired frequency, the maximum cooling capacity and the outdoor temperature, An air conditioner which controls the opening of the expansion valve based on the determined target suction superheat.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above air conditioner further includes a fan motor, The above at least one processor individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner which obtains a rotation speed of the fan motor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity and controls the fan motor to operate at the obtained rotation speed.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An air conditioner, wherein the plurality of cooling capacities include a rated cooling capacity specified for the air conditioner, a cooling capacity exceeding the rated cooling capacity, and a cooling capacity less than the rated cooling capacity.

5. In paragraph 4, The above at least one processor individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner, wherein each of the plurality of cooling capacities is expressed as a percentage of the rated cooling capacity.

6. In paragraph 4, The at least one processor individually and / or collectively controls the display, An air conditioner that displays an image indicating the rated cooling capacity corresponding to the rated cooling capacity among the plurality of cooling capacities.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above at least one processor individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner that receives an input for selecting one of the plurality of cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity for a section in which the indoor temperature drops to the desired temperature.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above at least one processor individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner that receives an input for selecting one of the plurality of cooling capacities as the maximum cooling capacity for a section in which the indoor temperature is maintained after the indoor temperature reaches a desired temperature.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The at least one processor individually and / or collectively controls the display, An air conditioner, wherein a user interface including a plurality of cooling capacities is displayed based on an input for controlling a desired temperature of the air conditioner.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The at least one processor individually and / or collectively controls the display, An air conditioner, wherein a user interface including the plurality of cooling capacities is displayed based on a user input selecting a power saving mode of the air conditioner.

11. In the method of cooling according to the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, A step of receiving an input for selecting one of a plurality of cooling capacities of the air conditioner as the maximum cooling capacity outputtable by the air conditioner; A step of obtaining a frequency of a compressor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity by determining that the cooling capacity of the air conditioner is to be output as the maximum cooling capacity based on the desired temperature and the indoor temperature set in the air conditioner; and A cooling method, comprising the step of controlling the compressor based on the acquired frequency.

12. In paragraph 11, The above cooling method is, A step of controlling the compressor to operate at the acquired frequency; A step of determining a target suction superheat of the air conditioner based on the acquired frequency, the maximum cooling capacity and the outdoor temperature; and A cooling method further comprising the step of controlling the opening of the expansion valve based on the determined target suction superheat.

13. In clause 11 or 12, The above cooling method is, A step of obtaining a rotation speed of a fan motor corresponding to the maximum cooling capacity; and A cooling method further comprising the step of controlling the fan motor to operate at the obtained rotation speed.

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, A cooling method, wherein the plurality of cooling capacities include a rated cooling capacity specified for the air conditioner, a cooling capacity exceeding the rated cooling capacity, and a cooling capacity less than the rated cooling capacity.

15. In paragraph 14, The above cooling method is, A cooling method further comprising the step of expressing each of the plurality of cooling capacities as a percentage of the rated cooling capacity.

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