Power generation apparatus and air conditioner outdoor unit comprising same

Abstract

An air conditioner outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a power generation apparatus which generates electricity by using sunlight, and which rotates at different angles according to changes in the altitude of the sun. The power generation apparatus may comprise: a main body coupled to the upper side of the outdoor unit; a first rotation structure which is rotatably connected to the main body, and which is disposed such that at least a portion thereof overlaps the front surface of the outdoor unit; and a second rotation structure which is rotatably disposed inside the first rotation structure and which includes a plurality of solar panels. The first rotation structure and the second rotation structure can rotate at different angles in response to changes in the altitude of the sun.

Description

Power generation device and outdoor unit of air conditioner including same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a power generation device that generates power using solar panels and an outdoor unit of an air conditioner including the same.

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

[0003] Air conditioners can be divided into separate air conditioners in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed separately, and integrated air conditioners in which the indoor and outdoor units are installed together in one cabinet.

[0004] Meanwhile, as demands for high performance and efficiency in air conditioners grow, various efforts are being attempted. One example is installing additional solar panels on the outdoor unit of an air conditioner, generating electricity from the panels and using it to power the unit. However, this approach typically suffers from the problem of power generation efficiency varying with the sun's altitude, as the solar panels are installed without considering the sun's altitude variation.

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a power generation device including a solar panel and having a dual rotation structure, and an outdoor unit of an air conditioner including the same.

[0006] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a power generation device that generates power using solar energy, and may include a power generation device configured to rotate a plurality of solar panels at different angles in response to changes in the sun's altitude. The power generation device may include a main body coupled to an upper side of the outdoor unit. The power generation device may include a first rotation structure that is rotatably connected to the main body and arranged to overlap at least a portion of a front surface of the outdoor unit. The power generation device may include a second rotation structure that is rotatably arranged inside the first rotation structure and includes a plurality of solar panels. The first rotation structure and the second rotation structure may rotate at different angles in response to changes in the sun's altitude.

[0007] A power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be mountable on an external structure and include a plurality of solar panels that generate power using sunlight. The power generation device may include a body coupled to the external structure. The power generation device may include a second rotational structure that is rotatably disposed inside the first rotational structure and includes a plurality of solar panels. The first rotational structure and the second rotational structure may rotate at different angles in response to changes in the altitude of the sun.

[0008] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a power generation device has a dual rotation structure including a first rotation structure rotatably connected to an outdoor unit and a second rotation structure rotatably connected to the first rotation structure, which includes a plurality of solar panels, thereby enabling solar power generation in response to changes in the altitude of the sun.

[0009] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second rotating structure of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second rotating part of a second rotating structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner within a network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 7 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit when the sun's altitude is low, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 8b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a generator illustrated in Fig. 8a.

[0019] FIG. 9A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit when the sun is at a high altitude, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 9b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device illustrated in Fig. 9a.

[0021] FIG. 10A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 10b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a generator illustrated in Fig. 10a.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a display screen of an external electronic device showing information transmitted from an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 13, there is a control flowchart regarding a washing operation of a power generation device of an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a display screen of an external electronic device indicating a notification regarding a washing operation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a cleaning operation of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 16 is a control flowchart regarding a washing operation of a power generation device in an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a display screen of an external electronic device indicating a notification regarding a washing operation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 18 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit for calculating the power generation efficiency of solar panels according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 19 is a display screen of an external electronic device showing the efficiency of solar panels according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 20 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit for pedestrian detection according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating a case in which a pedestrian is detected around an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0035] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0043] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0044] A power generation device (100) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of solar panels (1313) for solar power generation and may be detachably installed on an external structure (e.g., an outdoor unit, a window). According to one embodiment, the power generation device (100) may generate power by tracking the altitude of the sun, which changes seasonally and / or daily, by rotating the plurality of solar panels (1313) through a dual rotation structure.

[0045] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, the structure of a power generation device (100) installed in an outdoor unit, which is an external structure, will be described as an example.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second rotating structure of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second rotating part of a second rotating structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a power generation device (100) with the washing section (123) removed, and Figure 2 is a perspective view of the second rotation structure (130) of the power generation device (100) viewed from the rear.

[0052] A power generation device (100) according to one embodiment may be detachably installed on an external structure. For example, the power generation device (100) may be detachably mounted on the upper side of an outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner. According to one embodiment, the power generation device (100) may include a plurality of solar panels (111, 1313) that generate electricity using sunlight. According to one embodiment, the power generation device (100) may be rotatably coupled to an external structure such as the outdoor unit (10). In one embodiment, the power generation device (100) may be configured such that the plurality of solar panels (1313) may be rotated at different angles according to seasonal and / or hourly changes in the sun's altitude. For example, the power generation device (100) may have a dual rotation structure for rotating the plurality of solar panels (1313) in response to changes in the sun's altitude.

[0053] Hereinafter, the dual rotation structure of the power generation device (100) will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a power generation device (100) according to one embodiment may include a main body (110), a first rotation structure (120), and a second rotation structure (130).

[0055] In one embodiment, the main body (110) may be fixed to an external structure. For example, the main body (110) may be positioned on the upper side of the outdoor unit (10) and fixed to the outdoor unit (10) via a fastening member (e.g., a bolt). The main body (10) may be referred to as a fixing member or a connecting member.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a solar panel (111) may be arranged on the upper surface of the main body (10). The solar panel (111) of the main body (110) may have a larger area or size than the solar panel (1313) of the second rotating structure (130) described below. All or part of the description of the solar panel (1313) of the second rotating structure (130) described below may be substantially equally applied to the solar panel (111) of the main body (110).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the first rotation structure (120) can be rotatably coupled to the main body (110).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first rotating structure (120) may include a first rotating portion (121), a first driving portion (e.g., 122 in FIG. 6) and a washing portion (123).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the first rotating portion (121) may form the overall appearance of the first rotating structure (120). For example, the first rotating portion (121) may have an opening (121a) formed on the inside and may have an overall rectangular shape.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first driving unit (122) can rotatably connect the first rotating unit (121) to the main body (110). Although not specifically shown in the drawing, the first driving unit (122) can rotatably connect the upper end of the first rotating unit (121) to the front end of the main body (110). In one embodiment, the first driving unit (122) includes a driving motor (not shown) and can change the rotation angle of the first rotating unit (121) in response to seasonal and / or daily changes in the sun's altitude.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the washing unit (123) may be disposed in front of the first rotating unit (121). For example, the washing unit (123) may be disposed near the upper end of the opening (121a) of the first rotating unit (121). According to one embodiment, the washing unit (123) may be connected to a drain tank (not shown) in which drainage generated during the operation of the indoor unit (not shown) is stored through a drain pipe (P). The drain tank (not shown) may be provided in the outdoor unit (10), but may also receive drainage from the indoor unit through another drain pipe (not shown). According to one embodiment, the washing unit (123) may be connected to the drain pipe (P) and include a water outlet nozzle (1231) for spraying water toward the solar panels (1313). A plurality of water outlet nozzles (1231) may be provided, and the plurality of water outlet nozzles (1231) may be horizontally spaced apart from each other at the bottom of the washing section (123).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the second rotation structure (130) may be rotatably arranged inside the first rotation structure (120). For example, the second rotation structure (130) may be arranged inside the opening (121a) of the first rotation part (121). According to one embodiment, the second rotation structure (130) may be arranged so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with an exhaust port formed on the front of the outdoor unit (10) when the outdoor unit (10) is viewed from the front.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the second rotating structure (130) may include a second rotating portion (131) and a second driving portion (132).

[0064] According to one embodiment, a plurality of second rotating parts (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e) may be provided, and the plurality of second rotating parts (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction inside the opening (121a) of the first rotating part (121).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the second rotating part (131) may include a first part (1311), a second part (1312) coupled to the rear (e.g., rear (1311b)) of the first part (1311), and a solar panel (1313) coupled to the front (e.g., front (1311a)) of the first part (1311).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the upper portion (1311c) of the first part (1311) may be formed as a curved surface. The upper portion (1311c) of the first part (1311) may be axially coupled to a connecting portion (1322) of the second driving portion (132) described later. The side surface of the upper portion (1311c) of the first part (1311) may function as an electrode that transfers electricity produced by the solar panel (1313) to the outdoor unit (10).

[0067] In one embodiment, the first part (1311) and the second part (1312) may be composed of different materials. For example, the first part (1311) may be composed of an injection-molded material such as plastic, and the second part (1312) may be composed of a metal material.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the second part (1312) may include a second-1 part (1312a) coupled to the back surface (1311b) of the first part (1311) and a second 2-2 part (1312b) bent at a predetermined angle (θ) from the second-1 part (1312a).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the bending angle (θ) of the 2-2 part (1312b) may be designed such that the 2-2 part (1321b) shields at least a portion of the opening (121a) when the first rotation structure (120) and the second rotation structure (130) rotate according to changes in the altitude of the sun, as described later in FIGS. 8a to 9b.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the bending angle (θ) of the 2-2 part (1312b) may be determined by considering the maximum meridian altitude of the sun in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed. For example, if the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed is Seoul, the maximum meridian altitude of the sun in Seoul corresponds to approximately 76 degrees. In order to maximize the power generation of the solar panels (1313), when the first rotating structure (120) rotates at a limited angle of approximately 20 degrees, the second rotating structure (130) rotates at an angle of approximately 56 degrees. At this time, considering the rotation angles of the first rotating structure (120) and the second rotating structure (130), the bending angle (θ) of the 2-2 part (1312b) may be designed to be approximately 56 degrees corresponding to the rotation angle of the second rotating structure (130). In this case, when the outdoor unit (10) is in operation, the opening (121a) of the first rotating part (121) is shielded by the second-second part (1312b) of the plurality of second rotating parts (131), so that the hot air discharged from the outdoor unit (10) can be blocked from heading forward.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the solar panel (1313) can generate direct current electricity using sunlight energy, and convert the generated direct current electricity into alternating current electricity through an inverter (not shown) provided in an external structure (e.g., outdoor unit (10)) and use it to operate the outdoor unit (10). The solar panel (1313) can include, for example, a silicon solar panel, a compound solar panel, or a tandem solar panel. The solar panel (1313) can be called a solar cell.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the second driving unit (132) can integrally rotatably connect a plurality of second rotating units (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e) to the first rotating structure (120). For example, the second driving unit (132) can link the rotation of the plurality of second rotating units (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e). The connecting unit (1322) may also be referred to as a link unit.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the second driving unit (132) may include a driving motor (1321) and a connecting unit (1322) for transmitting the driving force of the driving motor (1321) to each of a plurality of second rotating units (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the connecting portion (1322) may include a first part (1322a) connected to the driving motor (1321), and a second part (1322b) extending vertically from an end of the first part (1322a). The second part (1322b) may be connected to one side of the upper end (1311c) of each of the plurality of second rotating portions (131a, 131b, 131c, 131d, 131e).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the second driving units (132a, 132b) may be provided as a pair, and each of the pair of second driving units (132a, 132b) may be axially coupled to both sides of the upper portion (1311c) of the second rotating unit (131) through a connecting portion (1322).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, a power generation device (100a) according to one embodiment may further include a support structure (140) that supports the rotation of the rotating structures (120, 130), unlike the power generation device (100) illustrated in FIG. 4. In one embodiment, the support structure (140) may connect the lower portion of the power generation device (100) and the lower portion of the outdoor unit (10), which is an external structure. For example, the support structures (140) may be provided as a pair, and a pair of support structures (140a) may connect the lower portion of the first rotating portion (121) and the lower portion of the side of the outdoor unit (10) via a plurality of link bars (141, 142). According to one embodiment, the support structure (140) may include a first link bar (141) rotatably coupled to the outdoor unit (10) and a second link bar (142) rotatably coupled to each of the first link bar (141) and the first rotation part (121).

[0077] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner within a network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment may include a processor (11), a memory (12), a communication unit (13), a compressor (14), and a washing pump (1232).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the processor (11) may execute software (e.g., a program) to control components connected to the processor (11) (e.g., a compressor (14) of an outdoor unit (10) or rotating structures (120, 130) of a power generation device (100)) and perform various data processing or calculations. In one embodiment, the processor (11) may process and / or store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensors (151, 152, 153, 154, 1233) or a communication unit (13)) as at least a part of the data processing or calculations. The processor (11) may be referred to as a control unit.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the memory (12) can store various data used by components connected to the processor (11) (e.g., solar panels (111, 1313) of the power generation device (100). The data can include, for example, input data or output data for software and commands related thereto. The data can include, for example, data such as the amount of power generated by the solar panels (111, 1313) of the power generation device (100).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (13) can support the establishment of a wired communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the outdoor unit (10) and an external electronic device (e.g., a weather server (20) or an electronic device (30)) and the performance of communication through the established communication channel.

[0082] In one embodiment, the communication unit (13) can transmit location data of the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, obtained using the location sensor (151), to the weather server (20) via the network (40).

[0083] In one embodiment, the communication unit (13) can receive weather data regarding the corresponding region from the weather server (20) via the network (40). The weather data may include, for example, the solar altitude of the corresponding region where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, the solar irradiance of the corresponding region where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, and climate data of the corresponding region where the outdoor unit (10) is installed.

[0084] In one embodiment, the communication unit (13) may transmit data regarding the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) to an external electronic device (30) (e.g., a user terminal device) via a network (40) or receive data regarding commands for the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) from the external electronic device (30).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the compressor (14) is a device for compressing a refrigerant, and can transfer the compressed refrigerant to a heat exchanger (not shown) (or condenser) of the outdoor unit (10), through which the refrigerant and the outside air can exchange heat in the heat exchanger.

[0086] In one embodiment, the washing pump (123) can supply wastewater stored in a drain (not shown) to the washing unit (123) of the power generation device (100). In one embodiment, the washing pump (1232) can be installed in the drain and connected to the discharge nozzle (1231) of the washing unit (123) through a drain pipe (P in FIG. 1).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the sensors (151, 152, 153, 154, 1233) can detect the operating status of the outdoor unit (10), the operating status of the power generation device (100), or the external environmental status, and generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. In one embodiment, the sensors (151, 152, 153, 154, 1233) may include a location sensor (151) (e.g., GPS) for calculating the location (or region) where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, a temperature sensor (152) for detecting the outside temperature and / or the temperature of solar panels (1313), an irradiance sensor (153) for detecting irradiance, a pedestrian detection sensor (154) for detecting objects and / or pedestrians around the outdoor unit (10), and a water level sensor (1233) for detecting the water level of a drain (not shown). In one embodiment, the pedestrian detection sensor (154) may be arranged at the lower end of the first rotating part (121), as illustrated in FIG. 5. For example, a plurality of pedestrian detection sensors (154) may be provided, and the plurality of pedestrian detection sensors (154) may be arranged horizontally spaced apart along the lower end of the first rotating part (121). In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (152) may separately include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the solar panels (1313) and a temperature sensor for detecting the external temperature.

[0088] Figure 7 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] FIG. 8A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit when the sun's altitude is low, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] Fig. 8b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a generator illustrated in Fig. 8a.

[0091] FIG. 9A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit when the sun is at a high altitude, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Fig. 9b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a power generation device illustrated in Fig. 9a.

[0093] FIG. 10A is a drawing showing the operation of the rotating structures of a power generation device mounted on an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Fig. 10b is a side view of an outdoor unit of an air conditioner equipped with a generator illustrated in Fig. 10a.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the power generation device (100) can adjust the rotation angle of the rotating structures (120, 130) according to seasonal and / or daily changes in the altitude of the sun to maximize the power generation of the solar panels (1313). In addition, the power generation device (100) can adjust the rotation angle of the rotating structures (120, 130) to protect the solar panels (1313) from abnormal weather conditions such as yellow dust or gusts of wind in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed.

[0096] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, the operation of the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) according to changes in the altitude of the sun or the climate of the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed will be described.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9B, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can determine whether the solar panels (111, 1313) of a power generation device (100) are capable of generating electricity (operation 705). For example, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the current time is within a preset time zone (e.g., 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) to determine whether the current time is within a time zone where solar power generation is possible. Alternatively, similar to operations 710 and 715 described below, the outdoor unit (10) can receive climate data (e.g., solar sunrise / sunset time) regarding the installation area of ​​the outdoor unit (10) from a weather server (20), and determine whether the current time is within the received solar sunrise / sunset time zone to determine whether the current time is within a time zone where solar power generation is possible.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can obtain data regarding the location where the outdoor unit (10) is installed using a location sensor (151) (operation 710). The data regarding the location may include, for example, information regarding the region or address where the outdoor unit (10) is installed.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can receive weather data of the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed by communicating with the weather server (20) using the data value of the location sensor (151) (operation 715).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether abnormal weather conditions have been observed in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed based on received weather data (operation 720). The abnormal weather conditions may refer to weather phenomena such as yellow dust or gusts of wind.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the compressor (14) is operating and adjust the rotation angles of the rotation structures (120, 130) when no abnormal weather is observed in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed (NO in operation 720) (operation 725).

[0102] In one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the first rotation structure (120) at a limit angle (θa) (operation 730) when the compressor (14) is operating (e.g., in operation 725). The limit angle (θa) may be a maximum rotation angle of the first rotation structure (120), for example, 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the second rotation structure (120) at an angle (θb1) corresponding to (current solar altitude - limit angle (θa) of the first rotation structure (120)) (735) when the compressor (14) is operating (e.g., in operation 725).

[0103] Typically, the compressor (14) operates in the summer when cooling of an indoor space is required. At this time, the outdoor unit (10) can improve the power generation rate of the solar panels (1313) by adjusting the rotation angles of the first rotating structure (120) and the second rotating structure (130) in response to changes in the solar altitude during the summer when the sun is at its highest throughout the year. For example, by rotating the first rotating structure (120) together with the second rotating structure (130), the overlapping area between the rotating structures (120, 130), such as the shadow cast on the solar panels (1313) when the second rotating structure (130) rotates, can be reduced (see FIGS. 8A and 8B). The overlapping area can be referred to as a power generation inhibition area.

[0104] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and by rotating the first rotation structure (120) by a limited angle or more, the solar panels (1313) may be rotated in response to changes in the solar altitude only by rotating the first rotation structure (120) without rotating the second rotation structure (130).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the first rotation structure (120) to a basic angle (operation 740) when the compressor (140) is not operating (NO in 725). The basic angle may refer to an angle at which the first rotation structure (120) is arranged parallel to the front of the outdoor unit (10). For example, the basic angle may refer to an angle when an angle between an imaginary line perpendicular to the first rotation structure (120) and the main body (110) is about 0 degrees, or an angle when an angle between the first rotation structure (120) and the main body (110) is about 90 degrees.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the second rotating structure (120) at an angle (θb2) corresponding to the current solar altitude (745) when the compressor (14) is operating (e.g., at 725).

[0107] Typically, the compressor (14) is not operated during the winter season when cooling of the indoor space is not required. At this time, the outdoor unit (10) can adjust the rotation angle of the second rotating structure (130) to respond to changes in the sun's altitude during the winter season when the sun's altitude is lowest, thereby improving the power generation rate of the solar panels (1313). For example, in the winter season, since the sun's altitude is low, it is possible to respond to changes in the sun's altitude by rotating only the second rotating structure (130) (see FIGS. 9a and 9b).

[0108] After this, the outdoor unit (10) can generate electricity through solar panels (111, 1313) (operation 750).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may operate the power generation device (100) in a safety mode when abnormal weather is observed in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed (e.g., in operation 720). The safety mode may correspond to one of various operation modes of the power generation device (100) for protecting the solar panels (1313) from abnormal weather. For example, the outdoor unit (10) may adjust the rotation angles of the rotation structures (120, 130) so that the solar panels (1313) are positioned in the space between the first rotation part (121) and the outdoor unit (10) in order to protect the solar panels (1313) from abnormal weather.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the first rotating structure (120) to a basic angle (operation 760).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can rotate the second rotating structure (130) at a safe angle (θb3) (operation 765). The safe angle (θb3) may refer to an angle at which the solar panels (1313) are positioned in the space between the first rotating structure (120) and the outdoor unit (10). For example, the safe angle (θb3) may refer to an angle at which the angle between the first rotating part (121) and the solar panels (1313) has a negative value (e.g., -35 degrees) (see FIGS. 10a and 10b).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can detect whether an object or pedestrian is present around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) using a pedestrian detection sensor (154) (operation 770).

[0113] According to one embodiment, when an object or pedestrian is detected around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) (e.g., in operation 770), the outdoor unit (10) may rotate the second rotating structure (130) to a basic angle to block hot air from flowing toward the object or pedestrian (e.g., the front of the outdoor unit (10)) (operation 780). The basic angle may refer to an angle when the solar panels (1313) are arranged parallel to the first rotating part (121). In this case, when the opening (121a) of the first rotating part (121) is blocked by the solar panels (1313), the hot air discharged from the outdoor unit (10) may not flow forward, but may flow to the side of the outdoor unit (10).

[0114] According to one embodiment, if no objects or pedestrians are detected around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) (NO in operation 770), the outdoor unit (10) determines whether a preset time (e.g., 1 hour) has elapsed (790), and performs operation 750 or 705 described above again depending on whether the preset time has elapsed.

[0115] FIG. 11 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] FIG. 12 is a display screen of an external electronic device showing information transmitted from an outdoor unit in an abnormal climate, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] Below, the operation of the outdoor unit (10) and / or power generation device (100) to protect solar panels (1313) in abnormal weather conditions such as yellow dust is described.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can perform solar power generation by adjusting the rotation angles of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) in response to changes in the sun's altitude (operation 1110).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may receive meteorological information, such as the concentration of fine dust, for the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed from the weather server (20) (operation 1120). The concentration of fine dust may correspond to the hourly concentration of fine dust in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the received hourly fine dust concentration is higher than a limit concentration (e.g., 150 ug / m3) (operation 1130). In one embodiment, if the received fine dust concentration is lower than the limit concentration (NO in operation 1130), the outdoor unit (10) can suggest information about the fine dust concentration and whether to enter the safety mode to the user (1150). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the user can receive a question about the fine dust concentration and whether to enter the safety mode from the outdoor unit (10) through the external electronic device (30). Specifically, the display of the external electronic device (30) can output an icon (1210) indicating the current installation area of ​​the outdoor unit, the current fine dust concentration (1220), and text regarding the question about whether to enter the safety mode (1230).

[0121] According to one embodiment, when the concentration of the received fine dust is higher than the limit concentration (e.g., in 1130), the outdoor unit (10) can enter the safety mode by adjusting the angles of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) as described above with reference to FIG. 7, FIG. 10a, and FIG. 10b (operation 1140).

[0122] Although the present disclosure has been explained with reference to this drawing using yellow dust as an example among abnormal weather conditions, it can be applied substantially identically or similarly to abnormal weather conditions such as gusts of wind or heavy rain other than yellow dust.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 13, there is a control flowchart regarding a washing operation of a power generation device of an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] FIG. 14 is a display screen of an external electronic device indicating a notification regarding a washing operation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a cleaning operation of a power generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can perform solar power generation by adjusting the rotation angle of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) in response to changes in the sun's altitude (operation 1310).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may receive meteorological information, such as the concentration of fine dust, for the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed from the weather server (20) (operation 1320). The concentration of fine dust may correspond to the hourly concentration of fine dust in the area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the concentration of fine dust received per hour is higher than a limit concentration (e.g., 150 ug / m3) (operation 1330).

[0129] According to one embodiment, if the concentration of fine dust received is above a limit concentration (e.g., in 1330), the outdoor unit (10) may suggest to the user whether to clean the solar panels (1313) (1340). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the user may receive a question from the outdoor unit (10) regarding whether to enter cleaning mode via the external electronic device (30). Specifically, the display of the external electronic device (30) may output text (1410) regarding concerns about reduced power generation efficiency due to fine dust and text (1420) for entering cleaning mode.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can perform the above-described operation 1320 again when the concentration of the received fine dust is less than the limit concentration (NO in operation 1330).

[0131] According to one embodiment, when a command to wash the solar panels (1313) is input from a user (e.g., in 1350), the outdoor unit (10) can operate the washing pump (1232) to spray water toward the solar panels (1313) (operation 1360) (see FIG. 15).

[0132] FIG. 16 is a control flowchart regarding a washing operation of a power generation device in an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 17 is a display screen of an external electronic device indicating a notification regarding a washing operation according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can perform solar power generation by adjusting the rotation angle of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) in response to changes in the altitude of the sun (operation 1610).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the external temperature is above a limit temperature through a temperature sensor (152) (operation 1620). Alternatively, the outdoor unit (10) can receive temperature information regarding the installation area of ​​the outdoor unit (10) from a weather server (20) and determine whether the received temperature is above a limit temperature. The limit temperature may correspond to an external temperature corresponding to a heat wave warning, for example, 32 degrees Celsius.

[0136] According to one embodiment, when the external temperature is higher than the limit temperature (e.g., in operation 1620), the outdoor unit (10) can detect the water level in the drain (not shown) using the water level sensor (1233) and determine whether the detected water level corresponds to a set water level (operation 1630). The set water level may correspond to, for example, a water level corresponding to half of the drain capacity.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) enters a washing mode when the water level of the detected drain is higher than the set water level (e.g., in operation 1630), and operates the washing pump (1232) to spray water toward the solar panels (1313) (operation 1640) (see FIG. 15).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may provide the user with information regarding the temperature of the solar panels (1313) upon completion of the cleaning of the solar panels (1313) (operation 1650). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the user may receive text (1710) regarding the temperature decrease value of the solar panels (1313) and the water level of the drain tank according to the cleaning mode performed via an external electronic device (30).

[0139] Fig. 18 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit for calculating the power generation efficiency of solar panels according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] FIG. 19 is a display screen of an external electronic device showing the efficiency of solar panels according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can perform solar power generation by adjusting the rotation angle of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) in response to changes in the altitude of the sun (operation 1810).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can collect power generation data of the solar panels (1313) (operation 1820). For example, the outdoor unit (10) can calculate the expected power generation of the solar panels (1313) through the irradiance sensor (153) and measure and store the actual power generation of the solar panels (1313). In addition, the outdoor unit (10) can calculate the efficiency of the solar panels (1313) using the expected power generation and the actual power generation.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the power generation data of the solar panels (1313) were collected (operation 1830). The predetermined period of time can be set in units of months.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can calculate the monthly average power generation efficiency of the solar panels (1313) when the period for collecting power generation data of the solar panels (1313) has elapsed for a predetermined period of time (e.g., in operation 1830), and can determine whether there is a solar panel (1313) whose monthly average power generation efficiency has decreased compared to the previous month (operation 1840).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may provide the user with power generation data regarding the solar panel (1313) via the external electronic device (30) when there is a solar panel (1313) with reduced power generation efficiency (e.g., in operation 1840). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the display of the external electronic device (30) may output text (1910) such as the amount of power generated by the outdoor unit, an identifier of the solar panel (1313) with reduced power generation efficiency among the solar panels (1313), and text (1920) containing the reduced power generation efficiency.

[0146] FIG. 20 is a control flowchart of an outdoor unit for pedestrian detection according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating a case in which a pedestrian is detected around an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, an outdoor unit (10) according to one embodiment can perform solar power generation by adjusting the rotation angle of the rotation structures (120, 130) of the power generation device (100) in response to changes in the altitude of the sun (operation 2010).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can detect whether there is a pedestrian around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) through a pedestrian detection sensor (154), and can also measure the distance from the pedestrian (operation 2020). The pedestrian detection sensor (154) may correspond to an infrared sensor, for example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0150] According to one embodiment, when a pedestrian is detected around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) (e.g., in operation 2020), the outdoor unit (10) can determine whether the distance to the pedestrian is within a preset limit distance (e.g., 1 m) (operation 2030).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may rotate the angle of the first rotation structure (120) to a basic angle (e.g., 0 degrees) (2040) when the distance from the pedestrian is within a limited distance (e.g., in operation 2030). In this case, the first rotation structure (120) may rotate as close as possible to the outdoor unit (10), thereby not impeding the pedestrian's walking.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) can continue to generate solar power if no pedestrians are detected around the outdoor unit (10) and / or the power generation device (100) (NO in operation 2020) or the distance from the pedestrians is greater than the limit distance (NO in operation 2030).

[0153] In describing the present disclosure, the example in which the power generation device (100) is installed in the outdoor unit (10) has been mainly described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. According to some examples, the power generation device (100) may be installed in an external structure such as a window, and as described above, the rotating structures (120, 130) may rotate according to changes in the altitude of the sun to generate power. In this case, the power generation device (100) may also perform a function such as a blind or canopy for blocking sunlight in addition to the solar power generation function. In addition, the contents described with respect to the power generation device (100) mounted in the outdoor unit (10) with reference to FIGS. 1 to 21 may be substantially identically or similarly applied even when the power generation device (100) is installed in a window.

[0154] An outdoor unit (10) of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a power generation device (100) that generates power using solar energy, and may include a power generation device (100) configured to rotate a plurality of solar panels (1313) at different angles according to changes in the altitude of the sun. The power generation device (100) may include a main body (110) coupled to an upper side of the outdoor unit (10). The power generation device (100) may include a first rotation structure (120) that is rotatably connected to the main body (110) and arranged to overlap at least a portion of the front surface of the outdoor unit (10). The power generation device (100) may include a second rotation structure (130) that is rotatably arranged inside the first rotation structure (120) and includes a plurality of solar panels (1313). The first rotation structure (120) and the second rotation structure (130) can rotate at different angles in response to changes in the sun's altitude.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the first rotation structure (120) may include a first rotation part (121) having an opening (121a) formed on the inside thereof in which the second rotation structure (130) is received, and a first driving part (122) that rotatably connects the first rotation part (121) to the main body.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the second rotation structure (130) may include a first part (1311) on which the solar panel (1313) is arranged, a second part (1312) coupled to the first part (1311) and having at least a portion bent at a predetermined angle, a plurality of second rotation parts (131), and a second driving part (132) that integrally connects the plurality of second rotation parts (131) to be rotatable relative to the first rotation structure (120).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first part (1311) and the second part (1312) may be composed of different materials.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the second part (1312) is bent downward from the top of the first part (1311), and the bending angle of the second part (1312) can be designed in consideration of the maximum meridian altitude of the sun.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second driving unit (132) may include a driving motor (1321) and a connecting portion (1322) connected to the driving motor (1321). The connecting portion (1322) may include a first connecting portion (1322a) connected to the driving motor (132) and a second connecting portion (1322) connected to the first connecting portion (1322a) and axially coupled to one side of each of the plurality of second rotating units (131).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may further include a processor (11) configured to adjust the angle of the first rotating structure (120) depending on whether the compressor (14) of the outdoor unit (10) is operating.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may further include a pedestrian detection sensor (154) for detecting a pedestrian near the outdoor unit (10) and a processor (11) configured to adjust a rotation angle of the first rotation structure (120) based on a detection value of the pedestrian detection sensor (154).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may further include a location sensor (151) for determining the location of an area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, a communication unit (13) for receiving weather information about the area from an external weather server (20), and a processor (11) configured to adjust the rotation angles of the first rotation structure (120) and the second rotation structure (130) based on the received weather information.

[0163] In one embodiment, the weather information may include information about the solar noon altitude, solar radiation, or climate of the area.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the power generation device (100) may further include a washing unit (123) connected to a drainage tank where condensate of the indoor unit is stored and a drain hose (P), and disposed on the upper end of the first rotating structure (120), and including a water outlet nozzle (1231) for spraying water toward the solar panel (1313). The processor (11) may be configured to control the operation of the washing unit based on the received weather information.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may further include an irradiance sensor (153) for measuring irradiance in an area where the outdoor unit (10) is installed, and a processor (11) configured to calculate an expected power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313) based on the measured irradiance, calculate an actual power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313), and calculate monthly power generation efficiency of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313) using the expected power generation amount and the actual power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may further include a communication unit (13) configured to transmit information and alarm information regarding the plurality of solar panels (1313) to a user terminal device (30). The processor (11) may transmit information regarding the corresponding solar panel (1313) and the alarm information to the user terminal device (30) through the communication unit (13) when a percentage point (%P) difference between the monthly power generation efficiencies of any one of the plurality of solar panels (1313) is equal to or greater than a set value.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit (10) may include a temperature sensor (152) for detecting the temperature of the solar panel (1313) or the temperature near the outdoor unit. The power generation device (100) may include a washing unit (123) connected to a drainage tank where condensate of the indoor unit is stored and a drain hose (P), and disposed at the upper end of the first rotating structure (120), and including a water outlet nozzle (1231) for spraying water toward the solar panel (1313). The outdoor unit (10) may further include a processor (11) configured to control the operation of the washing unit based on the temperature value of the detected temperature sensor.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a power generation device (100) that is mountable on an external structure and includes a plurality of solar panels (1313) that generate power using sunlight may include a main body (110) that is coupled to the external structure (e.g., an outdoor unit (10), a window, etc.). The power generation device (100) may include a first rotating structure (120) that is rotatably coupled to the main body (110). The power generation device (100) may include a second rotating structure (130) that is rotatably disposed inside the first rotating structure (120) and includes the plurality of solar panels (1313). The first rotating structure (120) and the second rotating structure (130) may rotate at different angles in response to changes in the altitude of the sun.

Claims

1. In the outdoor unit (10) of the air conditioner, A power generation device (100) that generates power using solar energy, comprising a power generation device (100) configured to rotate a plurality of solar panels (1313) at different angles according to changes in the sun's altitude, The above power generation device (100) is A main body (110) coupled to the upper side of the outdoor unit (10); A first rotation structure (120) rotatably connected to the front of the above main body (110); and A second rotation structure (130) is rotatably positioned inside the first rotation structure (120) and includes a plurality of solar panels (1313). The above first rotation structure (120) and the above second rotation structure (130) are outdoor units that rotate at different angles in response to changes in the sun's altitude.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first rotation structure (120) is A first rotating part (121) having an opening (121a) formed on the inside to accommodate the second rotating structure (130); and An outdoor unit including a first driving unit (122) that rotatably connects the first rotating unit (121) to the main body (110).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above second rotation structure (130) is A plurality of second rotating parts (131) including a first part (1311) on which the solar panel (1313) is arranged, and a second part (1312) coupled to the first part (1311) and having at least a portion bent at a predetermined angle; and An outdoor unit including a second driving unit (132) that integrally connects the plurality of second rotating units (131) to the first rotating structure (120) so that they can rotate together.

4. In paragraph 3, The above first part (1311) and the above second part (1312) are outdoor units made of different materials.

5. In paragraph 3 or 4, The above second part (1312) is bent downward from the top of the above first part (1311), The bending angle of the second part (1312) is designed in consideration of the maximum meridian altitude of the sun.

6. In any one of paragraphs 3 to 5, The above second driving unit (132) is drive motor (1321); and Includes a connecting portion (1322) connected to the above driving motor (1321), The above connecting part (1322) is An outdoor unit including a first connecting portion (1322a) connected to the driving motor (1321), and a second connecting portion (1322b) connected to the first connecting portion (1322a) and axially coupled to one side of each of the plurality of second rotating portions (132).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An outdoor unit further comprising a processor (11) configured to adjust the angle of the first rotating structure (120) depending on whether the compressor of the outdoor unit (10) is operating.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, A pedestrian detection sensor (154) for detecting a pedestrian near the outdoor unit (10); and An outdoor unit further comprising a processor (11) configured to adjust the rotation angle of the first rotation structure (120) based on the detection value of the pedestrian detection sensor (154).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, A location sensor (151) for determining the location of the area where the above outdoor unit (10) is installed; A communication unit (13) for receiving weather information about the above region from an external weather server (20); and An outdoor unit further comprising a processor (11) configured to adjust the rotation angles of the first rotation structure (120) and the second rotation structure (130) based on the received weather information.

10. In paragraph 9, The above weather information includes information on the solar noon altitude, solar radiation or climate of the area, 11. In clause 9 or 10, The above power generation device (100) is It further includes a washing unit (123) that is connected to a drainage tank where condensate of the indoor unit (10) is stored and a drainage hose (P), is arranged on the top of the first rotating structure (120), and includes a water discharge nozzle (1231) for spraying water toward the solar panel (1313). The above processor (11) is an outdoor unit configured to control the operation of the washing unit (123) based on the received weather information.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, A solar irradiance sensor (153) for measuring solar irradiance in the area where the above outdoor unit (10) is installed; and An outdoor unit further comprising a processor (11) configured to calculate an expected power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313) based on the measured solar irradiance, calculate an actual power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313), and calculate a monthly power generation efficiency of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313) using the expected power generation amount and the actual power generation amount of each of the plurality of solar panels (1313).

13. In paragraph 12, It further includes a communication unit (13) configured to transmit information and alarm information about the plurality of solar panels (1313) to the user terminal device (30). The above processor (11) is an outdoor unit configured to transmit information about the corresponding solar panel (1313) and the alarm information to the user terminal device through the communication unit (13) if the percentage point (%P) difference between the monthly power generation efficiencies of any one of the plurality of solar panels (1313) is greater than or equal to a set value.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, It further includes a temperature sensor (152) for detecting the temperature of the solar panel (1313) or the temperature near the outdoor unit (10), The above power generation device (100) further includes a washing unit (123) that is connected to a drainage tank where condensate of the indoor unit (10) is stored and a drainage hose (P), is arranged on the upper side of the first rotating structure (120), and includes a water discharge nozzle (1231) for spraying water toward the solar panel (1313). An outdoor unit further comprising a processor (11) configured to control the operation of the washing unit (123) based on the temperature value of the detected temperature sensor (152).

15. A power generation device (100) that can be mounted on an external structure and includes a plurality of solar panels (1313) that generate power using solar energy. A body (110) coupled to the above external structure; A first rotation structure (120) rotatably coupled to the above body; and A second rotation structure (130) is rotatably positioned inside the first rotation structure (120) and includes a plurality of solar panels (1313). A power generation device in which the first rotation structure (120) and the second rotation structure (130) rotate at different angles in response to changes in the sun's altitude.

Images