Air conditioner for providing sleep mode, and control method therefor

Abstract

According to one aspect of one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner comprises: a detection sensor; an air conditioning module; a memory for storing one or more instructions; and one or more processors including a processing circuit. The one or more processors individually and / or collectively execute the one or more instructions to cause the air conditioner to: identify the position of a user in a target space by using a sensor detection value of the detection sensor; enter a sleep mode including a sleep onset mode, a deep sleep mode and a wake-up mode; control the air conditioning module such that airflow is directly blown at the user during a first time period in the sleep onset mode; control the air conditioning module such that airflow is indirectly blown at the user in the deep sleep mode; and control the air conditioning module such that airflow is directly blown at the user during a second time period in the wake-up mode.

Description

Air conditioner providing sleep mode and control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner providing a sleep mode, a method for controlling the air conditioner, and a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing the air conditioner control method on a computer.

[0002] Various types of air conditioners are widely used in indoor spaces. Air conditioners can be equipped with various sensors, such as occupancy sensors, light sensors, and temperature sensors. These sensors can be used to control the environment of the air-conditioned space and control its operation. Because air conditioners regulate the temperature and environment of indoor spaces, their operation significantly impacts the user's condition. However, if each mode provided by the air conditioner is not properly controlled, it cannot provide the user with appropriate environmental control, which can lead to user inconvenience.

[0003] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a detection sensor, an air conditioning module including at least one heat pump device, a memory storing at least one instruction, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The at least one processor individually or collectively executes the at least one instruction, thereby causing the air conditioner to identify a location of a user in a target space using a sensor detection value of the detection sensor, enter a sleep mode including a sleeping mode, a deep sleep mode, and a waking up mode, control the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a first time period in the sleeping mode, control the air conditioning module to blow indirect air to the user based on the location of the user during the deep sleep mode, and control the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a second time period in the waking up mode.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an air conditioner is provided. The method for controlling an air conditioner includes a step of identifying a location of a user in a target space using a sensor detection value of a detection sensor, a step of entering a sleep mode including a sleeping mode, a deep sleep mode, and a waking up mode, a step of controlling an air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a first time period in the sleeping mode, a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow indirect air to the user based on the location of the user during the deep sleep mode, and a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a second time period in the waking up mode.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium is provided, having recorded thereon a program that, when executed on a computer of an air conditioner, causes the air conditioner to perform an air conditioner control method.

[0006] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating exemplary operation of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary air conditioner control method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating exemplary operation of a sleep mode according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process of blowing indirect air according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an exemplary process of blowing direct wind rotational wind according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process of blowing a rotating wind when multiple users are detected according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an air conditioner, an external device, a wearable device, and a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a signal flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode by receiving sleep state information from an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode by receiving sleep state information or wake-up event information from an external device, a wearable device, or a home appliance, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 12 is a signal flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode based on sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information of an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process of inputting sleep schedule information through an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0021] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0025] 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).

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device having at least one of these functions.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings of a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a standing air conditioner, a system air conditioner, etc.

[0032] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0033] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0034] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0035] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0036] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0037] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0038] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in refrigerant gas through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0039] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0040] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0041] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0042] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0043] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may join and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0044] Multiple outdoor units may all be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0045] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0046] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0047] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0048] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0049] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0050] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0051] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0052] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected from an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0053] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0054] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0055] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0056] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0057] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0058] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0059] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0060] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0061] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0062] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0063] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using the wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0064] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0065] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0066] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0067] For example, each environmental information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0069] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0070] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0071] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0072] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0073] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0074] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0075] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0076] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0077] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include non-volatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0078] The processor includes various processing circuits and can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0079] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0080] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0081] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0082] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating exemplary operation of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) performs an air conditioning operation for a target space (120). The air conditioning operation may include, for example, cooling, heating, air purification, dehumidification, or ventilation. The air conditioner (100) may be implemented in the form of an air conditioner, a heater, an air conditioner, an air purifier, or a dehumidifier. In the present disclosure, the case where the air conditioner (100) corresponds to an air conditioner is mainly described. However, this is for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0084] The air conditioner (100) may include a detection sensor (110). The detection sensor (110) detects an object within a target space (120). The air conditioner (100) may detect location information of a user (130) within the target space (120) using the sensor detection value of the detection sensor (110). In the present disclosure, a person within the target space (120) may be referred to as a user (130), an occupant, etc.

[0085] The target space (120) refers to an indoor space in which an air conditioner (100) can be installed. The target space (120) can correspond to various types of indoor spaces such as a house, office, store, guest room, commercial space, or work space.

[0086] The location information of the user (130) is information indicating the location of the user (130) within the target space (120). The location information of the user (130) may take various forms depending on the type of the detection sensor (110). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the user (130) may be coordinate information in a defined coordinate system within the target space (120). When the detection sensor (110) includes a radar (RADAR) sensor, the location information of the user (130) may be coordinate information within the target space (120). In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the user (130) may be an area or range within the target space (120). When the detection sensor (110) includes an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like, the location information of the user (130) may be an area or range in which the user (130) exists within the target space (120). The area or range may be, for example, one of a plurality of predefined areas within the target space (120). In addition, the area or range may be, for example, an area or range of a specified size centered on a coordinate within the target space (120). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the detection sensor (110) includes a radar sensor, coordinate information of the user (130) is identified by the radar sensor, and the location information of the user (130) may be an area centered on the coordinate information of the user.

[0087] The air conditioner (100) can operate in sleep mode (140). Sleep mode may refer to a mode that provides an environment suitable for the user's (130) sleep. In sleep mode, the air conditioner (100) can adjust target temperature, wind direction, wind speed, etc. according to a predetermined process. While operating in sleep mode, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct or indirect wind to the user (130) according to a predetermined process. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct or indirect wind in sleep mode based on user location information.

[0088] Direct wind refers to wind blowing toward the user (130). The air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind by setting the wind direction in a direction corresponding to the user's location information. The air conditioner (100) can control the direction of the wind by adjusting the airflow guide (e.g., plate, blade, etc.) of the airflow outlet of the air conditioner (100).

[0089] Indirect wind refers to wind whose wind direction is set to a different direction from the user's position so that the wind does not blow directly toward the user (130). The air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind by blowing in a windless mode or by blowing upward wind. The windless mode is a mode in which wind is blown while the wind door that opens and closes the airflow outlet of the air conditioner (100) is closed. The upward wind refers to wind blowing toward the ceiling of the target space (120) or toward the upper part of the target space (120). The air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind by blowing in a windless mode or by blowing upward wind based on the user's position information.

[0090] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep mode may include a sleep mode that helps the user (130) fall asleep, a deep sleep mode that helps deep sleep, and a wake-up mode that helps the user wake up. The sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and wake-up mode may be sequentially performed during a preset time interval. In the sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and wake-up mode, the air conditioner (100) may operate at a preset target temperature, wind direction, and wind speed.

[0091] The air conditioner (100) can reflect the user's location information and blow direct or indirect wind in the sleep mode, so that the direct wind can reach the user (130) directly, and the indirect wind can reach the user (130) indirectly without directly reaching the user (130). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) blows direct wind to the user (130) in some sections of the sleep mode and the wake-up mode, and blows indirect wind to the user (130) in the deep sleep mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) blows direct wind or indirect wind based on the user's location. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can provide a more appropriate sleeping environment to the user in the sleep mode, the deep sleep mode, and the wake-up mode by blowing direct wind or indirect wind in response to the user's location.

[0092] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) includes a detection sensor (110), a processor (210, including, for example, a processing circuit), an air conditioning module (212, including, for example, a heat pump device), and a memory (214). The block diagram of the air conditioner (100) of FIG. 2 may correspond to the block diagram of an indoor unit.

[0094] The air conditioner (100) can be implemented in various installation forms. For example, the air conditioner (100) can be implemented in a stand form, a wall-mounted form, a system air conditioner built into the ceiling form, or a home multi-air conditioner form.

[0095] The detection sensor (110) can detect an object in a target space (120). The detection sensor (110) may include, for example, a ToF (Time of Flight) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, an optical sensor, a RADAR (radio detection and ranging) sensor, or a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor. The detection sensor (110) is arranged to output a signal to the target space (120) and detect a reflected signal. The detection sensor (110) may be arranged in front of the air conditioner (100) toward the target space (120). The detection sensor (110) generates a sensor detection value and transmits it to the processor (210).

[0096] The processor (210) includes various processing circuits and can control the overall operation of the air conditioner (100). The processor (210) may be implemented with one or more processors. The processor (210) may execute instructions or commands stored in the memory (214) to perform a predetermined operation. In addition, the processor (210) controls the operation of components provided in the air conditioner (100). The processor (210) may include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, etc. For example, the processor (210) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term “processor” as used in the present 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 individually and / or collectively configured to perform various functions described in the present disclosure in a distributed manner. When "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described herein as being configured to perform multiple functions, these terms encompass, for example and without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the recited functions and another processor performs other of the recited functions, and also situations where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform various functions of the recited / disclosed functions, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions.

[0097] The processor (210) determines whether there is a moving object using the sensor detection value of the detection sensor (110), and if there is a moving object, determines that there is a person in the target space (120). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) determines whether the detected object is a person using the sensor detection value. For example, if the detection sensor (110) corresponds to an infrared sensor, the processor (210) determines that there is a person in the target space (120) if an infrared value corresponding to a person is detected. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) determines whether the detected object has a human shape based on the sensor detection value, and if the detected object corresponds to a human shape, determines that there is a human in the target space (120).

[0098] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the detection sensor (110) corresponds to a radar sensor, and the processor (210) can determine whether a detected object is a human shape using a sensor detection value of the radar sensor. The radar sensor outputs a radar signal to a target space (120) and detects a signal reflected from an object in the target space (120) as a sensor detection value. The processor (210) detects an object in the target space (120) using the sensor detection value of the radar sensor. The processor (210) detects an object in the target space (120) at a predetermined frame rate and detects movement of the object. The processor (210) determines that a human exists in the target space (120) if the movement value of the object in the target space (120) is greater than or equal to a reference value. For example, the processor (210) detects an object in the target space (120) at a cycle of 30 frames / sec, and determines that a human exists in the target space (120) if the movement value per second of the object is greater than or equal to a reference value. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) determines whether the recognized object is a person based on the result of object recognition based on the sensor detection value of the radar sensor. For example, the processor (210) can determine whether the recognized object is a person based on the shape of the recognized object. If the recognized object corresponds to a person and the movement value is greater than or equal to a reference value, the processor (210) determines that a person exists in the target space (120). If the processor (210) determines that the recognized object does not correspond to a person, it determines that a person does not exist in the target space (120). In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can determine that a person exists in the target space (120) even when the recognized object corresponds to a pet. Therefore, the processor (210) can determine that a person exists in the target space (120) if the detected object corresponds to a person or a pet and the movement value is greater than or equal to a reference value.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can obtain location information of a person in a target space (120) using a sensor detection value of the detection sensor (110). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the person may be coordinate information within the target space (120). In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the person may be an area or range in which the person exists within the target space (120). The accuracy of the location information of the person may vary depending on the type of the detection sensor (110). For example, when the detection sensor (110) corresponds to an infrared sensor, the location information of the person may be an area or range. In addition, for example, when the detection sensor (110) corresponds to a radar sensor, the location information of the person may be coordinate information.

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can obtain location information of a person in a target space (120) using a sensor detection value of a radar sensor. The processor (210) can set a predetermined coordinate system for the target space (120). For example, a two-dimensional xy coordinate system can be set for the target space (120). The processor (210) can obtain coordinate information of the person based on the sensor detection value of the radar sensor.

[0101] The air conditioning module (212) includes at least one heat pump device and can perform an air conditioning operation. The air conditioning module (212) controls whether to cool, the cooling intensity, whether to heat, the heating intensity, the air volume, the air direction, etc. based on a control signal or a driving signal input from the processor (210). The air conditioning module (212) may include a heat exchanger, a motor, an inverter, a fan, a filter, an airflow guide, a wind door, etc. The air conditioning module (212) is provided with a heat exchanger and can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing a phase change (e.g., expansion or compression) of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger. For example, while the refrigerant expands in the heat exchanger, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor air can be cooled. While the refrigerant is compressed in the heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor air can be heated.

[0102] The processor (210) can control the indoor temperature by changing the temperature setting value of the indoor unit and controlling the motor rotation speed of the outdoor unit compressor or the indoor unit compressor to control the indoor temperature. For example, when a user-set temperature is set by a user, the processor (210) can control the motor RPM (Revolutions per minute) according to the set temperature. If the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than the user-set temperature, the processor (210) can control the compressor motor RPM to increase, and if the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than the user-set temperature, the processor (210) can decrease the compressor motor RPM or stop the compressor motor. The processor (210) can generate a control signal for controlling the RPM of the compressor motor and output it to the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioning module (212) can control the degree of air cooling by controlling the RPM of the compressor motor according to the control signal of the processor (210). By controlling the RPM of the compressor motor, the indoor temperature can follow the user-set temperature. By increasing the RPM of the compressor motor, the air conditioning module (212) discharges airflow at a lower temperature than before into the room, which may lower the indoor temperature. In addition, by reducing the RPM of the compressor motor or stopping the compressor motor, the air conditioning module (212) discharges airflow at a higher temperature than before into the room, which may raise the indoor temperature.

[0103] The processor (210) can control the wind door or blade of the indoor unit to switch to wind-free mode. The indoor unit operates in wind-free mode by discharging air with the wind door closed. The processor (210) generates a control signal for closing the wind door and outputs it to the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioning module (212) closes the wind door in response to the control signal input from the processor (210), thereby operating in wind-free mode.

[0104] In addition, the processor (210) can control the fan speed of the air conditioning module (212) to adjust the wind speed. The processor (210) generates a control signal for adjusting the fan speed and outputs it to the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioning module (212) adjusts the fan speed in response to the control signal input from the processor (210). The air conditioning module (212) can control the fan speed to blow a light breeze at low wind speed, a strong wind at high wind speed, etc.

[0105] In addition, the processor (210) can control the direction of the airflow guide of the air conditioning module (212) to adjust the wind direction. The processor (210) can adjust the wind direction by rotating or changing the direction of the airflow guide to the left, center, or right. In addition, the processor (210) can perform a wind direction rotation operation to rotate the airflow guide back and forth within a predetermined angle range to rotate the wind direction. In addition, the processor (210) can control the airflow guide or the wind door to blow upward wind that blows wind toward the ceiling. The processor (210) can operate in a windless mode or blow upward wind to blow indirect wind that is not directly directed at the user.

[0106] The memory (214) stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the air conditioner (100). The memory (214) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory (214) 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 memory (214) may correspond to a web storage or cloud server that performs a storage function on the Internet.

[0107] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can operate in sleep mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can operate in sleep mode for a preset time period. For example, if the user (130) sets the bedtime to 11:00 PM and the sleep length to 7 hours, the air conditioner (100) can operate in sleep mode from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM the next day. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can operate in sleep mode when it recognizes that the user (130) is sleeping. The air conditioner (100) can detect the sleeping event of the user (130) by using movement information of the user (130) detected by the detection sensor (110), location information of the user (130), or sleep state information detected by an external device.

[0108] The sleep mode may include a sleep mode, a deep sleep mode, and a wake-up mode. The sleep mode is a mode that promotes sleep for the user (130). The sleep mode is performed for a predetermined period of time from the sleep time. The deep sleep mode is a mode that creates an environment in which the user (130) can sleep well. The deep sleep mode may be performed for a predetermined period of time between the sleep mode and the wake-up mode. The wake-up mode is a mode that assists the user (130) in waking up. The wake-up mode may be performed for a predetermined period of time before the scheduled wake-up time. For example, the sleep mode may be performed for one hour from the sleep time, the deep sleep mode may be performed for six hours after the sleep mode, and the wake-up mode may be performed from one hour before the scheduled wake-up time to the scheduled wake-up time.

[0109] In the sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and wake-up mode, the air conditioner (100) operates at a predetermined target temperature, wind direction, rotation, and wind speed. In the sleep mode, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind and blow strong wind of a rotary wind for at least a portion of the time period. In the deep sleep mode, the air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind of a gentle breeze. In the wake-up mode, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind and blow strong wind of a rotary wind for at least a portion of the time period. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind in a direction toward the user in the sleep mode and wake-up mode based on the user's position, and blow indirect wind in a direction where the wind does not directly reach the user in the deep sleep mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, by blowing direct wind or indirect wind in the sleep mode based on the user's position, there is an effect of creating an environment that more effectively assists the user's comfortable sleep.

[0110] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary air conditioner control method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0111] An air conditioner control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be performed by an air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 3, in step S302, the air conditioner (100) identifies the location of the user (130) in the target space (120) using the sensor detection value of the detection sensor (110). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the user may be coordinate information within the target space (120). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the location information of the user may be an area or range in which the user exists within the target space (120). The accuracy of the location information of the user may vary depending on the type of the detection sensor (110).

[0113] The air conditioner (100) enters sleep mode and operates in step S304. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may operate in sleep mode for a preset time period. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may operate in sleep mode when it is recognized that the user (130) is falling asleep. The air conditioner (100) may detect a falling asleep event of the user (130) by using movement information of the user (130) detected by the detection sensor (110), location information of the user (130), or sleep state information detected by an external device.

[0114] The air conditioner (100), in step S306, operates in the sleeping mode and, during a first time interval, blows direct wind based on the user's position. The air conditioner (100) can adjust the direction of the airflow guide based on the user's position to discharge direct wind that blows wind in a direction toward the user. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind while rotating the wind direction within a predetermined angle range. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow a rotational wind with a strong wind during a first time interval after starting the sleeping mode, and can blow an indirect wind with a gentle breeze after the first time interval. For example, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind with a rotational wind with a strong wind for 5 minutes after starting the sleeping mode, and can blow an indirect wind with a gentle breeze after 5 minutes.

[0115] The air conditioner (100) operates in a deep sleep mode in step S308 and blows indirect wind based on the user's position. The air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind that blows wind in a direction away from the user by adjusting the direction of the airflow guide based on the user's position. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind by operating in a windless mode. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind by blowing upward wind toward the ceiling. The air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind of a gentle breeze in the deep sleep mode.

[0116] The air conditioner (100), in step S310, operates in the wake-up mode and, during a second time period, blows direct wind based on the user's location. The air conditioner (100) can adjust the direction of the airflow guide based on the user's location to discharge direct wind that blows wind in a direction toward the user. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind while rotating the wind direction within a predetermined angle range. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow a rotational wind with a strong wind during a second time period before the expected wake-up time, and blow an indirect wind with a gentle breeze before the second time period. For example, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind with a rotational wind with a strong wind for 10 minutes before the expected wake-up time, and blow an indirect wind with a gentle breeze before the 10-minute time period.

[0117] FIG. 4 is a diagram including a graph illustrating exemplary operation of a sleep mode according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep mode may include a sleep mode (410), a deep sleep mode (420), and a wake-up mode (430). The sleep mode (410), the deep sleep mode (420), and the wake-up mode (430) may operate according to a predetermined target temperature, wind speed, wind direction, and rotation. The target temperature may be set to be the same as or different from a user-set temperature. While operating in the sleep mode, the air conditioner (100) may set a separate target temperature based on the user-set temperature and operate to follow the target temperature.

[0119] In the graph of Fig. 4, the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time in minutes from the entrance time, and the vertical axis represents the target temperature of the air conditioning module (212). In the graph of Fig. 4, T represents the user-set temperature, which is the temperature set by the user.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can adjust the target temperature of the air conditioning module (212) in sleep mode according to the sleep time. In addition, the air conditioner (100) can control at least one of the wind direction, whether the wind direction rotates, wind speed, whether indirect wind / direct wind, or whether there is no wind of the air conditioning module (212) according to the sleep time in sleep mode.

[0121] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep mode (410), the deep sleep mode (420), and the wake-up mode (430) may be predetermined time intervals. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep mode (410) may be, for example, 60 minutes from the sleep time, the deep sleep mode (420) may be a time interval between the sleep mode (410) and the wake-up mode (430), and the wake-up mode (430) may be a time interval before the scheduled wake-up time, for example, 60 minutes. The scheduled wake-up time may be a time predefined by the user.

[0122] In the sleep mode (410), the target temperature may be set lower than the user-set temperature (T). For example, the target temperature may be set 2°C lower than the user-set temperature in the sleep mode (410). In addition, during the first time period in the sleep mode (410), a sleep-promoting airflow may be blown. The sleep-promoting airflow may correspond to, for example, a strong wind rotational wind that outputs strong wind as an intermittent wind. The first time period may be set to 5 minutes. The sleep mode (410) may promote rapid sleep with rapid cooling and sleep airflow. The air conditioner (100) may induce deep sleep by maintaining a low temperature without a sensible airflow in the sleep mode (410). In addition, the air conditioner (100) may perform an air purification function to prevent catching a cold even at a low temperature in the sleep mode.

[0123] In the sleeping mode (410), the air conditioner (100) can blow indirect breeze after the first time period. In addition, after the first time period of the sleeping mode (410), the air conditioner (100) can stop the wind rotation.

[0124] When entering the deep sleep mode (420) from the sleep mode (410), the air conditioner (100) increases the target temperature to a temperature higher than the user-set temperature (T). For example, when entering the deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) increases the target temperature to a temperature 2℃ higher than the user-set temperature (T). The air conditioner (100) may maintain the target temperature at a temperature higher than the user-set temperature (T) in the deep sleep mode (420) while intermittently lowering the target temperature to the user-set temperature (T). For example, the air conditioner (100) may maintain the target temperature 2℃ higher than the user-set temperature (T) in the deep sleep mode (420) and then lower the target temperature to the user-set temperature (T) every hour. In the deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) may blow indirect wind, set the wind speed to a gentle breeze, and set the wind direction to upward or no wind. In deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) can maintain a healthy skin temperature. In addition, in deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) can increase the temperature to save energy. In addition, in deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) can minimize or reduce the feeling of airflow at the sleeping position by using evasive wind and control the airflow to stratify the airflow. In addition, in deep sleep mode (420), the air conditioner (100) can control the temperature in a wave shape to enable the user to continue sleeping without waking up and to secure REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

[0125] In the weather mode (430), the air conditioner (100) can set the target temperature higher than the user-set temperature (T). In the weather mode (430), the air conditioner (100) controls the target temperature to correspond to a metabolism activation temperature and allows the user to wake up refreshed by airflow stimulation. For example, the air conditioner (100) can set the target temperature to be 2℃ or higher than the user-set temperature (T) in the weather mode (430). In addition, the air conditioner (100) can generate a wake-up promoting airflow during a second time period in the weather mode (430). The second time period may be a period corresponding to a predetermined time period before the expected wake-up time. For example, the second time period may be a period corresponding to 10 minutes before the expected wake-up time. The wake-up promoting airflow may be, for example, an airflow that outputs a strong wind as a rotating wind for 10 minutes. In the weather mode (430), the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) to increase the target temperature while blowing indirect breeze during the period before the second time period.

[0126] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for blowing indirect air according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0127] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind in sleep mode. The air conditioner (100) can blow indirect wind in some sections of the sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and some sections of the wake-up mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when blowing indirect wind, the air conditioner (100) can blow upward wind or operate in windless mode depending on the distance from the user (130).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 5, the air conditioner (100) enters an indirect air blowing section in step S502. The indirect air blowing section includes, for example, a section after the first time section of the sleeping mode, a section in the deep sleep mode, and a section before the second time section of the waking mode.

[0129] In step S504, the air conditioner (100) determines the distance between the air conditioner (100) and the user (130). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the distance between the air conditioner (100) and the user (130) may be a straight-line distance between the detection sensor (110) and the user (130). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the distance between the air conditioner (100) and the user (130) may be a distance between the air conditioner (100) and the user (130) on the floor surface or ceiling surface of the target space (120).

[0130] If the distance from the user (130) is within the first reference distance, the air conditioner (100) blows upward wind (510) in step S506. The upward wind (510) is an indirect wind blowing toward the ceiling. If the distance from the user (130) is within the first reference distance, the wind blows in the no-wind mode so that the wind directly reaches the user (130). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if the distance from the user (130) is close, the air conditioner (100) blows upward wind (510) so that the wind does not directly reach the user (130). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first reference distance may be determined in the range of 1.5 m to 2.5 m. For example, the reference distance may be determined as 2 m.

[0131] If the distance from the user (130) exceeds the first reference distance, the air conditioner (100) operates in the no-wind mode in step S508. The air conditioner (100) can operate in the no-wind mode by blowing air with the wind door closed. Since the no-wind airflow (512) in the no-wind mode is directed downwards of the air conditioner (100), it can be discharged as indirect air without directly reaching the user (130).

[0132] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process of blowing direct wind rotational wind according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind (610) in the sleeping mode and the weather mode in step S602. Step S602 may correspond to steps S306 and S310 of FIG. 3. The air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind (610) in a direction (614) toward the user (130) based on the location information of the user (130). The air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind (610) while rotating within a predetermined first angle range (612).

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the predetermined first angle range (612) may be set to an angle range corresponding to a portion of a rotation angle range (630) within which the airflow guide of the air conditioner (100) can rotate. For example, if the rotation angle range (630) within which the airflow guide can rotate corresponds to 165 degrees, the first angle range (612) may correspond to, for example, 55 degrees.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can preset a plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624). The plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) can be set within a rotation angle range (630). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) can be set not to overlap each other. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) can be set to overlap each other. The number of the plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) can be determined in various ways. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, there are three sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624), and the angular size of each sub-angle range (620, 622, and 624) may be an angular size corresponding to 1 / 3 of the rotational angle range (630). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) may correspond to the left, the center, and the right, respectively, of the air conditioner (100). The air conditioner (100) may determine one of the plurality of sub-angle ranges (620, 622, and 624) as the first angular range (612) based on a direction corresponding to the location information of the user (130).

[0136] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can set a first angular range (612) having a predetermined angular size centered on a direction toward the user (130). When the detection sensor (110) includes a radar sensor, the air conditioner (100) can obtain coordinate information as location information of the user (130). The air conditioner (100) can set a first angular range (612) having a predetermined angular size centered on a direction (614) corresponding to the coordinate information of the user (130).

[0137] The air conditioner (100) can determine a first angular range (612) corresponding to the rotation range of the rotational wind in the first time section of the elevation mode using the location information of the user (130). In addition, the air conditioner (100) can determine a second angular range corresponding to the rotation range of the rotational wind in the second time section of the weather mode using the location information of the user (130). Similar to the method of determining the first angular range (612) above, the second angular range may be determined as one of a plurality of sub-angular ranges (620, 622, and 624), or may be determined as an angular range centered in a direction corresponding to the coordinate information of the user (130) and having a predetermined angular size. The first angular range (612) and the second angular range may be set to be the same or different. The first angular range (612) may be determined based on the location information of the user (130) in the elevation mode, and the second angular range may be determined based on the location information of the user (130) in the weather mode.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user (130) selects a wind direction rotation function, the air conditioner (100) can blow a rotating wind. When the air conditioner (100) blows a rotating wind in the wind direction rotation function, the air conditioner (100) can blow the wind while rotating in a rotation angle range (630). The size of the third angle range, which is the rotation range of the wind direction rotation function, may be an angle range that is larger than the first angle range (612) of the elevation mode and the second angle range of the weather mode.

[0139] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process of blowing a rotating wind when multiple users are detected according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0140] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (100) detects a plurality of users (130a, 130b) in a target space, the air conditioner (100) can set a first angle range and a second angle range to include the positions of the plurality of users (130a, 130b) in a first time section of a sleeping mode and a second time section of a waking mode, and blow direct wind (610) while rotating.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 7, the air conditioner (100) can detect multiple users (130a, 130b) within the target space in step S702. The air conditioner (100) can identify location information of each of the multiple users (130a, 130b).

[0142] When the air conditioner (100) detects multiple users (130a, 130b), in step S704, the air conditioner (100) sets a first angle range and a second angle range that cover the multiple users (130a, 130b). When the air conditioner (100) detects a first user (130a) and a second user (130b), the air conditioner (100) can determine a first direction (714) toward the first user (130a) and a second direction (716) toward the second user (130b). The air conditioner (100) can set a first angle range (712) that includes the first direction (714) and the second direction (716). The air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind (610) while reciprocating within the first angle range (712). For example, in the embodiment described above in FIG. 6, since there is only one user (130), the first angle range (612) may be set to 55 degrees. In the embodiment described in FIG. 7, in order to cover two users (130a, 130b), the first angle range (712) may be set to 110 degrees. For example, in FIG. 7, the first angle range (712) may be set to include sub-angle ranges 622 and 624. The air conditioner (100) may blow direct air while rotating in the first angle range (712) during the first time period of the elevation mode.

[0143] The air conditioner (100) can acquire the location information of the first user (130a) and the second user (130b) again in the weather mode and set the second angle range similarly to the process of setting the first angle range (712). In addition, the air conditioner (100) can blow direct wind while rotating in the second angle range during the second time period in the weather mode.

[0144] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of an air conditioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0145] In order to avoid duplication of explanation in Fig. 8, explanations that overlap with the air conditioner (100) described in Fig. 2 may not be repeated here, and explanations will be made focusing on differences.

[0146] An air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a detection sensor (110), a processor (210, for example, including a processing circuit), an air conditioning module (212, for example, including at least one heat pump device), a memory (214), a communication module (802, for example, including a communication circuit), and an input interface (804, for example, including an input circuit). Although FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment in which the air conditioner (100) includes both the input interface (804) and the communication module (802), an embodiment in which the air conditioner (100) includes only one of the input interface (804) and the communication module (802) is also possible.

[0147] The air conditioner (100) can receive various types of user inputs through the input interface (804) or the communication module (802).

[0148] The input interface (804) includes various input circuits and can receive input from a user. The input interface (804) can include keys, a touch screen, a touch pad, a touch sensor, etc. The input interface (804) receives user input and transmits it to the processor (210). The input interface (804) can receive a power on / off signal, a temperature setting signal, an operation mode selection signal, a blower strength selection signal, a sleep reservation signal, a reservation operation setting signal, a wind direction setting signal, etc.

[0149] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the input interface (804) may receive user input for setting a sleep mode. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the input interface (804) may receive user input for setting a sleep mode schedule. The sleep mode schedule may include, for example, at least one of a bedtime, a sleep duration, and a wake-up time.

[0150] The communication module (802) includes various communication circuits and can communicate with at least one external device, either wired or wirelessly. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) communicates wirelessly with a remote controller. The communication module (802) can receive a power on / off signal, a temperature setting signal, an operation mode selection signal, a blower strength selection signal, a sleep reservation signal, a reservation operation setting signal, a wind direction setting signal, etc. from the remote controller. The communication module (802) can transmit status information of the air conditioner (100) to the remote controller to synchronize the status information of the remote controller and the air conditioner (100).

[0151] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) may receive a user input for setting a sleep mode. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) may receive a user input for setting a sleep mode schedule.

[0152] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) can communicate with the outdoor unit. For example, the communication module (802) can communicate with the outdoor unit using RS-485 serial communication.

[0153] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) can communicate with the server via a network. The communication module (802) can connect to the network through an AP (Access Point) device and communicate with the server. The communication module (802) can receive a power on / off signal, a temperature setting signal, an operation mode selection signal, a blower strength selection signal, a sleep reservation signal, a reservation operation setting signal, a wind direction setting signal, etc. from the server. The communication module (802) can transmit the status information of the air conditioner (100) to the server in order to synchronize the status information of the server and the air conditioner (100). In addition, the communication module (802) can receive the operation mode or setting information of the air conditioner (100) set using a user terminal, etc. from the server. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) can receive a user input for setting a sleep mode from the server. Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) can receive user input for setting a sleep mode schedule.

[0154] The communication module (802) may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). In addition, the communication module (802) may perform short-range communication, and may use, for example, Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), near field communication, WLAN (Wi-Fi), Zigbee, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), UWB (ultrawideband), Ant+ communication, etc. In addition, for example, the communication module (802) may perform long-range communication, and may communicate with an external device via, for example, a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a WAN).

[0155] Additionally, for example, the communication module (802) can utilize mobile communication and transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (802) is connected to an access point (AP) in the home via Wi-Fi communication. The communication module (802) can communicate with an external device via the access point.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) may receive sleep information indicating that the user has started sleeping via the communication module (802). The processor (210) may receive the sleep information from, for example, a wearable device worn by the user, a smartphone, a sensor installed in a bed, etc. Based on the received sleep information, the processor (210) may initiate a sleep mode.

[0158] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) may operate in a sleep mode based on sleep schedule information received through the communication module (802) or the input interface (804). The processor (210) may initiate the sleep mode based on the falling asleep time included in the sleep schedule information received through the communication module (802) or the input interface (804). In addition, the processor (210) may adjust the duration of the deep sleep mode and determine the start time and end time of the wake-up mode based on the sleep duration or wake-up time of the sleep schedule information. For example, the processor (210) may set a time period one hour prior to the expected wake-up time as the wake-up mode, and set a time period between the falling asleep mode and the wake-up mode as the deep sleep mode. The processor (210) may store the sleep schedule information received from the communication module (802) or the input interface (804) in the memory (214).

[0159] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an air conditioner, an external device, a wearable device, and a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) communicates with an external device (910) and a server (920) through a communication module (802). The air conditioner (100) may be connected to another home appliance, an external device (910), or a server (920) through a network (NET).

[0161] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can communicate with a wearable device (930) via a network (NET). The wearable device (930) may correspond to, for example, a watch or glasses. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable device (930) is connected to an external device (910) in the form of a smartphone or tablet PC via short-range communication, and can communicate with the air conditioner (100) via the external device (910) and a server (920). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable device (930) is connected to a server (920) via mobile communication, and can communicate with the air conditioner (100) via the server (920).

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable device (930) may include a motion sensor that detects a user's movement. Based on the motion value, the wearable device (930) may detect the user's sleep state or detect a wake-up event caused by the user.

[0163] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the wearable device (930) may include a biosensor. The biosensor may include, for example, a heart rate sensor, a body temperature sensor, a blood pressure sensor, an oxygen saturation sensor, or an electrocardiogram sensor. The wearable device (930) may use the sensor detection values ​​of the biosensor to detect a user's sleep state or a wake-up event.

[0164] The wearable device (930) can detect the user's sleep state or wake-up event by using the sensor detection values ​​of the motion sensor and the biosensor together.

[0165] The wearable device (930) can transmit information detecting the user's sleep state or information detecting a weather event to the server (920). The server (920) can transmit the sleep state information or weather event information received from the wearable device (930) to the air conditioner (100). The air conditioner (100) can control the sleep mode based on the sleep state information or weather event information received from the wearable device (930).

[0166] Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode by receiving sleep state information from an external device (910), a wearable device (930), etc. will be described in more detail.

[0167] FIG. 10 is a signal flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode by receiving sleep state information from an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0168] FIG. 11 is an exemplary flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode by receiving sleep state information or wake-up event information from an external device, a wearable device, or a home appliance, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can initiate a sleep mode by receiving information on the user's sleep time from an external device (910). The external device (910) may correspond to a smartphone, a wearable device (930), or a home appliance (1110).

[0170] Referring to FIG. 10, the external device (910) can detect the user's sleeping time in step S1002.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) may correspond to a wearable device (930). The external device (910) may detect the user's sleep state using a sensor detection value from at least one of a motion sensor and a biosensor. If the external device (910) determines that the user is sleeping, it identifies the time of sleep during which the user entered a sleep state.

[0172] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) may correspond to a smartphone. The external device (910) may obtain information on the user's sleep status using sleep schedule information, usage information, movement information, or light detection values. The external device (910) may identify the user's sleep time based on the sleep status information.

[0173] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) may correspond to a home appliance (1110). The home appliance (1110) may obtain information on the user's sleep state by using the user's usage information, setting information, etc. For example, the home appliance (1110) may correspond to a lighting device and obtain information on the user's sleep state based on on / off information, operation mode information, illuminance information, etc. of the lighting device. The home appliance (1110) may identify the time of falling asleep based on the sleep state information.

[0174] The external device (910) may transmit the user's bedtime to the server (920) in step S1004. In addition, the external device (910) may transmit sleep state information to the server (920). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) may transmit sleep state information to the server (920), and the server (920) may identify the user's bedtime based on the sleep state information.

[0175] The server (920) transmits the user's sleeping time to the air conditioner (100) in step S1006. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (920) may transmit at least one of the user's sleeping time or sleep state information to the air conditioner (100).

[0176] When the air conditioner (100) receives the sleeping time, it operates in sleep mode in step S1008. The air conditioner (100) can start the sleeping mode of the sleeping mode from the sleeping time.

[0177] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) can detect a weather event that the user wakes up in step S1010. For example, the external device (910) corresponds to a smartphone and can detect a weather event by receiving a user input to stop a weather alarm ringing. In addition, for example, the external device (910) corresponds to a wearable device (930), and the wearable device (930) can detect the user's weather event using a sensor detection value of at least one of a motion sensor and a biosensor. In addition, for example, the external device (910) corresponds to a home appliance (1110), and the home appliance (1110) can detect the user's weather event using usage information of the home appliance (1110), a sensor detection value, etc. For example, the home appliance (1110) corresponds to a lighting device and can detect the user's weather event based on on / off information, operation mode information, or illuminance information of the lighting device.

[0178] The external device (910) transmits a wake-up event to the server (920) in step S1012. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (910) transmits sleep state information to the server (920), and the server (920) can detect a wake-up event of the user using the sleep state information.

[0179] When the server (920) receives weather event or sleep state information from an external device (910), it can transmit the weather event information to the air conditioner (100) in step S1014.

[0180] When the air conditioner (100) receives weather event information from the server (920), it can exit the sleep mode in step S1016. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (100) receives weather event information, it can operate in the weather mode for a predetermined period of time and then exit the sleep mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (100) receives weather event information, it can perform an operation for a second time period. For example, when the air conditioner (100) receives weather event information, it can blow a strong, rotating wind as a direct wind based on the user's location for 10 minutes. In addition, when the air conditioner (100) receives weather event information, it can set the target temperature to be 2°C higher than the user-set temperature during the second time period. When the operation of the weather mode ends, the air conditioner (100) can exit the sleep mode and operate in a normal mode. When the air conditioner (100) switches to normal mode, it can change the target temperature to the user-set temperature and operate at the wind direction and wind speed set by the user before sleep mode.

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can transmit sleep mode operation information to the server (920) in step S1102. The air conditioner (100) can transmit the sleep mode operation information to the server (920) to synchronize the operation state of the air conditioner (100) with the server (920). The server (920) can control the operation of the air conditioner (100) based on the sleep mode operation information of the air conditioner (100). In addition, the server (920) can control at least one of the external device (910), the wearable device (930), or the home appliance (1110) based on the sleep mode operation information of the air conditioner (100).

[0182] FIG. 12 is a signal flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process for controlling a sleep mode based on sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information of an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the sleep mode by receiving sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information from an external device (910).

[0184] Referring to FIG. 12, in step S1202, an external device (910) can receive sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information from a user.

[0185] Sleep schedule information may include, for example, at least one of a bedtime, sleep duration, or wake-up time. For example, a user may input a bedtime and a wake-up time, and the sleep schedule information may include the bedtime and wake-up time. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep schedule information may be specified differently depending on the day of the week or date. The sleep schedule information may include at least one of a day of the week, a date, a bedtime, a sleep duration, or a wake-up time.

[0186] Weather alarm information may include a user-specified weather alarm time. For example, the user may specify the alarm type as a weather alarm and the alarm time. The external device (910) may identify the alarm time designated by the user as the weather alarm time. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the weather alarm information may be specified differently depending on the day of the week or date. The weather alarm information may include at least one of the day of the week, date, or alarm time.

[0187] Next, the external device (910) can transmit sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information to the server (920) in step S1204.

[0188] When the server (920) receives sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information, it can transmit the received sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information to the air conditioner (100) in step S1206.

[0189] When the air conditioner (100) receives sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information, it controls the sleep mode based on the sleep schedule information or wake-up alarm information received in step S1208.

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can determine the time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up based on sleep schedule information. The air conditioner (100) starts and ends sleep mode based on the time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up determined by the sleep schedule information. If the sleep schedule information is set differently depending on the day of the week or date, the air conditioner (100) can set the time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up differently depending on the day of the week or date.

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can determine an expected wake-up time based on weather alarm information. The air conditioner (100) can start the wake-up mode a predetermined time before the expected wake-up time determined based on the weather alarm information, and after performing the wake-up mode, end the sleep mode at the expected wake-up time.

[0192] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process of inputting sleep schedule information through an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0193] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can input his / her sleep schedule through an application of an external device (910). The air conditioner (100) can receive the user's sleep schedule information input through the application of the external device (910) through a server (920).

[0194] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an application of an external device (910) provides a first GUI (Graphical User Interface) view (1310) for entering a sleep schedule. A user can select a menu for entering a sleep schedule through the first GUI view (1310).

[0195] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep schedule may be a schedule for when a user is expected to sleep. For example, the sleep schedule is not limited to the air conditioner (100), but may be applied to all home appliances registered with the server (920). The air conditioner (100) may receive and utilize sleep schedule information input through an application of an external device (910) from the server (920).

[0196] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep schedule may be a sleep schedule for an air conditioner (100). A user may individually input a sleep mode schedule for each home appliance to operate in sleep mode.

[0197] When the sleep schedule input menu is selected, the external device (910) provides a menu for selecting a sleep schedule in the second GUI view (1320). The external device (910) can receive input of the start time, end time, day of the week, or date of the sleep schedule through the second GUI view (1320). The start time may correspond to the bedtime, and the end time may correspond to the wake-up time. The sleep schedule can be defined by specifying the day of the week or weekday / weekend. In addition, the sleep schedule may include specifying the date. In addition, the sleep schedule can be set to repeat in a predetermined pattern. In addition, the sleep mode schedule can be temporarily set for a specific day.

[0198] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sleep schedule may include designating a room or area within the home. If the sleep schedule includes designating a room or area within the home, the air conditioner (100) may obtain a sleep schedule for the room or area in which the air conditioner (100) is installed.

[0199] When the user completes entering the sleep schedule, sleep schedule information (1330) is generated and transmitted to the server (920). The server (920) can transmit the sleep schedule information (1330) to the air conditioner (100).

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) determines the time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up based on the sleep schedule information received from the server (920). If the sleep schedule is input based on the day of the week or date, the air conditioner (100) determines the time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up based on the day of the week or date based on the sleep schedule information. The air conditioner (100) controls the sleep mode based on the determined time of going to bed and the expected time of waking up.

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, sleep schedule information input via an external device (910) is stored for the user account to which the external device (910) is logged. The sleep schedule information may be utilized by an air conditioner (100) or other home appliance registered to the user account. For example, a refrigerator registered to the user account may operate in sleep mode using the registered sleep schedule information.

[0202] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This 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.

[0203] 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.

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a detection sensor, an air conditioning module including at least one heat pump device, a memory storing at least one instruction, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The at least one processor individually and / or collectively executes the at least one instruction to cause the air conditioner to identify a location of a user in a target space using a sensor detection value of the detection sensor, enter a sleep mode including a sleeping mode, a deep sleep mode, and a waking mode, control the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a first time period in the sleeping mode, control the air conditioning module to blow indirect air to the user based on the location of the user during the deep sleep mode, and control the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a second time period in the waking mode.

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor may individually and / or collectively control the air conditioning module to blow upward air when the distance from the air conditioner to the user is within a first reference distance in the deep sleep mode, and control the air conditioning module to blow air in a windless mode when the distance from the air conditioner to the user exceeds the first reference distance.

[0206] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor can individually and / or collectively control the air conditioning module to perform a wind rotation operation while blowing a strong wind during the first time period of the elevation mode and the second time period of the weather mode.

[0207] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor individually and / or collectively controls the air conditioning module to perform a wind direction rotation operation in a first angular range including a location of the identified user in the first time interval of the elevation mode, controls the air conditioning module to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a second angular range including a location of the identified user in the second time interval of the weather mode, and controls the air conditioning module to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a third angular range when the wind direction rotation operation is selected by the user, wherein the first angular range and the second angular range may be angular ranges having a smaller size than the third angular range.

[0208] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor may, individually and / or collectively, determine the first angular range and the second angular range as one of a plurality of preset sub-angular ranges for the wind direction rotation operation based on the identified user location.

[0209] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor may, individually and / or collectively, determine the first angular range and the second angular range to include locations of the two or more users when two or more users are detected in the target space based on sensor detection values ​​of the detection sensor.

[0210] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first time interval is a time interval starting from the time of going to bed, the second time interval is a time interval starting before the expected time of waking up and ending at the expected time of waking up, and each of the first time interval and the second time interval can be determined in a range between 3 minutes and 20 minutes.

[0211] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor may, individually and / or collectively, in the sleep mode, set a target temperature of the air conditioning module to be lower than a user-set temperature, in the deep sleep mode, set a target temperature of the air conditioning module to be periodically increased and decreased in a temperature range between the user-set temperature and a temperature higher than the user-set temperature, and in the wake-up mode, set a target temperature of the air conditioning module to be higher than the user-set temperature.

[0212] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner further includes a communication module including a communication circuit, and the at least one processor can individually and / or collectively receive sleep information that a user of the target space has started sleeping from an external device through the communication module, and start the sleep mode based on the sleep information.

[0213] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor may, individually and / or collectively, initiate the sleep mode from a bedtime set by the user.

[0214] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one processor individually and / or collectively receives a user input for setting a sleep duration, calculates an expected wake-up time based on a sleep onset time at which the user starts sleeping and the sleep duration set by the user, and the wake-up mode may be a preset time interval prior to the expected wake-up time.

[0215] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner further includes a communication module including a communication circuit, and the at least one processor can individually and / or collectively obtain weather alarm time information set by a user from an external device through the communication module, set an expected weather time using the weather alarm time information, and operate in the weather mode for a preset time period prior to the expected weather time.

[0216] In addition, according to one aspect of one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner control method is provided. The air conditioner control method includes a step of identifying a location of a user in a target space using a sensor detection value of a detection sensor, a step of entering a sleep mode including a sleeping mode, a deep sleep mode, and a waking up mode, a step of controlling an air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a first time period in the sleeping mode, a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow indirect air to the user based on the location of the user during the deep sleep mode, and a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow direct air to the user based on the location of the user during a second time period in the waking up mode.

[0217] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner control method may further include a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow upward air when the distance from the air conditioner to the user is within a first reference distance in the deep sleep mode, and a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow air in a windless mode when the distance from the air conditioner to the user exceeds the first reference distance.

[0218] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner control method may further include a step of controlling the air conditioning module to perform a wind direction rotation operation while blowing strong wind in the first time section of the elevation mode and the second time section of the weather mode.

[0219] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner control method further includes a step of controlling the air conditioning module to perform a wind direction rotation operation in a first angle range including a position of the identified user in the elevation mode, a step of controlling the air conditioning module to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a second angle range including a position of the identified user in the weather mode, and a step of controlling the air conditioning module to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a third angle range when the wind direction rotation operation is selected by the user, wherein the first angle range and the second angle range may be angle ranges having a smaller size than the third angle range.

[0220] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner control method may further include a step of determining the first angle range and the second angle range as one of a plurality of preset sub-angle ranges for the wind direction rotation operation based on the identified user position.

[0221] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner control method may further include a step of determining the first angular range and the second angular range to include locations of the two or more users when two or more users are detected in the target space based on the sensor detection value of the detection sensor.

[0222] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first time interval is a time interval starting from the time of going to bed, the second time interval is a time interval starting before the expected time of waking up and ending at the expected time of waking up, and each of the first time interval and the second time interval can be determined in a range between 3 minutes and 20 minutes.

[0223] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium is provided, having recorded thereon a program that, when executed on a computer of an air conditioner, causes the air conditioner to perform an air conditioner control method.

[0224] While this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative, not limiting. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the embodiments described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. Detection sensor (110); An air conditioning module (212) comprising at least one heat pump device; A memory (214) storing at least one instruction; and At least one processor (210) including a processing circuit, wherein the at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively executes the at least one instruction, thereby causing the air conditioner (100) to: Using the sensor detection value of the above detection sensor (110), the user's location in the target space is identified, Enter sleep mode, including sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and wake-up mode, In the above-mentioned entrance mode, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to blow direct wind to the user based on the user's location during the first time period, In the above sleep mode, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to blow indirect air to the user based on the user's location, An air conditioner (100) that controls the air conditioning module (212) to blow direct wind to the user based on the user's location during the second time period in the above weather mode.

2. In paragraph 1, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner (100), wherein, in the deep sleep mode, if the distance from the air conditioner (100) to the user is within the first reference distance, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to blow upward air, and if the distance from the air conditioner (100) to the user exceeds the first reference distance, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to blow air in a windless mode.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 and 2, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner that controls the air conditioning module (212) to perform a wind rotation operation while blowing strong wind during the first time period of the above-mentioned sleeping mode and the second time period of the above-mentioned weather mode.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, At least one of the processors, individually and / or collectively, In the first time interval of the above-mentioned entrance mode, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to perform a wind direction rotation operation in a first angle range including the location of the identified user, In the second time period of the above weather mode, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a second angle range including the location of the identified user, When the wind direction rotation operation is selected by the user, the air conditioning module (212) is controlled to perform the wind direction rotation operation in a third angle range, An air conditioner (100), wherein the first angle range and the second angle range are angle ranges smaller than the third angle range.

5. In paragraph 4, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner (100), which determines the first angle range and the second angle range as one of a plurality of preset sub-angle ranges for the wind direction rotation operation based on the identified user location.

6. In paragraph 4, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner (100), wherein when two or more users are detected in the target space based on the sensor detection value of the detection sensor (110), the first angle range and the second angle range are determined to include the positions of the two or more users.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above first time interval is the time interval starting from the time of admission, The above second time interval is a time interval that starts before the expected weather time and ends at the expected weather time, An air conditioner (100), wherein each of the first time interval and the second time interval is determined in a range between 3 minutes and 20 minutes.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, In the above-mentioned entrance mode, the target temperature of the air conditioning module (212) is set lower than the user-set temperature, In the above sleep mode, the target temperature of the air conditioning module (212) is set to periodically rise and fall within a temperature range between the user-set temperature and a temperature higher than the user-set temperature, An air conditioner (100) that sets the target temperature of the air conditioning module (212) higher than the user-set temperature in the above weather mode.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above air conditioner (100) further includes a communication module (802) including a communication circuit, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, Through the above communication module (802), information on when a user of the target space has started sleeping is received from an external device, An air conditioner (100) that starts the sleep mode based on the above sleeping information.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, An air conditioner (100) that starts the sleep mode from the bedtime set by the user.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, Receive user input setting the sleep duration, Based on the time of falling asleep at which the user started sleeping and the sleep duration set by the user, the expected time of waking up is calculated, The above weather mode is an air conditioner (100) that is a preset time period before the above weather forecast time.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above air conditioner further includes a communication module (802) including a communication circuit, The above at least one processor (210) individually and / or collectively, Obtains weather alarm time information set by the user through the communication module (802) from an external device, Set the expected wake-up time using the above weather alarm time information, An air conditioner (100) that operates in the weather mode for a preset time period prior to the above-mentioned weather forecast time.

13. A step of identifying the location of a user in a target space using the sensor detection value of the detection sensor; Step of entering sleep mode including sleep mode, deep sleep mode, and wake-up mode; In the above-described entrance mode, a step of controlling an air conditioning module to blow direct wind to the user based on the user's location during a first time period; In the above sleep mode, a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow indirect air to the user based on the user's location; and An air conditioner control method comprising: in the above weather mode, a step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow direct wind to the user based on the location of the user during a second time period.

14. In paragraph 13, In the above sleep mode, A step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow upward air when the distance from the air conditioner to the user is within a first reference distance; and An air conditioner control method further comprising the step of controlling the air conditioning module to blow air in a windless mode when the distance from the air conditioner to the user exceeds the first reference distance.

15. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for causing an air conditioner to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 14 when executed by at least one processor.

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