Method of managing air conditioner and air conditioner

Abstract

A method of managing an air conditioner, which is a method of managing an air conditioner performing a cooling operation and a drying operation, may comprise: receiving a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of a fan of the air conditioner and a target rotation speed of the fan for controlling the drying operation; and operating the fan at the target rotation speed of the fan, which is set according to the user command, during the target operation time of the fan, which is set according to the user command, thereby performing the drying operation.

Description

How to maintain an air conditioner and air conditioners

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management method for an air conditioner performing dry operation and to an air conditioner.

[0002] In general, an air conditioner is a device that cools or heats the air by utilizing the movement of heat generated during the evaporation and condensation of a refrigerant, and discharges the cooled or heated air to condition the air in a indoor space.

[0003] When operating in cooling or heating mode, an air conditioner circulates refrigerant and rotates a fan installed around an indoor heat exchanger to draw in indoor air. Furthermore, the air conditioner can exchange heat with the drawn-in air in the indoor heat exchanger and discharge the heat-exchanged air into the indoor space.

[0004] Additionally, the air conditioner performs a drying operation after the cooling operation ends to remove moisture condensed in the indoor heat exchanger during the cooling operation. During the drying operation, the air conditioner stops the circulation of refrigerant and rotates a fan installed around the indoor heat exchanger to cause the condensed moisture on the indoor heat exchanger to fall or evaporate.

[0005] Conventional air conditioners rotate the fan at a predetermined rotation speed for a predetermined drying time for drying operation, which causes loud noise.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner and a management method for an air conditioner that allows a user to change the settings of the drying operation of the air conditioner according to his / her needs.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner and a management method for the air conditioner that can maintain the efficiency of the drying operation while allowing a user to change the settings of the drying operation of the air conditioner according to his / her needs.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A method for managing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include receiving a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of a fan and a target rotation speed of the fan in a drying operation; and performing the drying operation by operating the fan at a target rotation speed of the fan set according to the user command for the target operation time of the fan set according to the user command.

[0010] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body including an outlet; a heat exchanger; a compressor for compressing refrigerant supplied from the heat exchanger; a fan for blowing air, which has undergone heat exchange in the heat exchanger, to the outlet; and a control unit for controlling the compressor and the fan to perform a cooling operation and a drying operation, wherein the control unit receives a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of a fan and a target rotation speed of the fan in a drying operation, and operates the fan at a target rotation speed of the fan set according to the user command during the target operation time of the fan set according to the user command, thereby performing the drying operation.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an air conditioner management system including an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 illustrates a refrigerant circulation circuit of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 illustrates the exterior of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 illustrates an air conditioner with an outlet opened according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 illustrates the A-A' cross-section of Figure 4.

[0017] Figure 7 illustrates a closed discharge port of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 illustrates the B-B' cross section of Figure 6.

[0019] Figure 9 is a control block diagram illustrating the configurations of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for managing an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a target operation time is determined based on a target rotation speed set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a minimum operation time is determined based on a target rotation speed set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of an interface for changing settings of a dry operation according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates another example of an interface for changing settings of a dry operation according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a visual element indicating a minimum operation time according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a visual element provided when a user attempts to set a target motion time shorter than a minimum motion time, according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a target rotation speed is determined based on a target operation time set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a minimum rotation speed is determined based on a target operation time set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a visual element indicating a minimum rotational speed according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a visual element provided when a user attempts to set a target rotation speed slower than a minimum rotation speed, according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of an interface provided to select a mode of drying operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, either a user-defined mode or an automatic mode.

[0032] Fig. 22 is a flowchart illustrating how an air conditioner according to one embodiment performs a drying operation according to a user-set mode or an automatic mode.

[0033] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0034] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention.

[0035] In this disclosure, expressions such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and / or B,” or “one or more of A or / and B” can include all possible combinations of the listed items. For example, “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” or “at least one of A or B” can all refer to cases where (1) only A is included, (2) only B is included, or (3) both A and B are included.

[0036] For example, in this specification, a singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] Additionally, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to express the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude the possibility of the additional presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] When it is said that a component (e.g., a first component) is “operatively or communicatively coupled with / to” or “connected to” another component (e.g., a second component), it should be understood that the component may be directly coupled to the other component, or may be connected through another component (e.g., a third component).

[0041] The expression "configured to" as used in the present disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "having the capacity to," "designed to," "adapted to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only "specifically designed to" in terms of hardware.

[0042] In some contexts, the phrase "a device configured to" may mean that the device, in conjunction with other devices or components, is "capable of" performing A, B, and C. For example, the phrase "a processor configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may refer to a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing the operations, or a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or application processor) that can perform the operations by executing at least one software program stored in a memory device.

[0043] Additionally, terms that include ordinal numbers, such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit one component.

[0044] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0045] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the disclosed invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The same reference numbers or symbols used in the attached drawings may represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions.

[0046] The operating principle and embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an air conditioner management system including an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioner management system according to one embodiment may include an air conditioner (1), a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7).

[0049] The air conditioner (1) may include a communication interface capable of communicating with a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7), a user interface device for receiving user input or outputting various types of information, at least one processor for controlling the operation of the air conditioner (1), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the air conditioner (1) is stored.

[0050] The computing device (7) may include a server device.

[0051] The computing device (7) may include a communication interface capable of communicating with the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6). The computing device (7) may include at least one processor capable of processing data received from the air conditioner (1), another computing device (or another server device), and / or the user device (6), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing the data or processed data. The computing device (7) may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, a data station, etc. The computing device (7) may be implemented as one or more servers that are physically or logically separated based on functions, detailed configurations of functions, or data, and may transmit and receive data and process the transmitted and received data through communication between each server.

[0052] The computing device (7) can store and / or manage user accounts, register an air conditioner (1) and / or a user device (6) by linking them to a user account, and perform functions of managing or controlling the registered air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6). For example, a user can access the computing device (7) through the user device (6) and create a user account. The user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The user can access the computing device (7) through the user device (6) and manage the user account. The computing device (7) can register the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the computing device (7) can link identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address, etc.) of the air conditioner (1) to the user account, thereby registering, managing, and controlling the air conditioner (1). Likewise, the computing device (7) may register and / or control the user device (6) to a user account.

[0053] According to various embodiments, the computing device (7) may include multiple servers.

[0054] For example, the computing device (7) may include a first server device and a second server device. The first server device may create and / or manage user account information, and register and / or manage information of the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) in the user account information. The second server device may receive registration information of the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) from the first server, and control the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6).

[0055] As another example, the second server device may perform the management function of the air conditioner (1) and / or user device (6) registered to the first server device on behalf of the first server device.

[0056] The number of computing devices (7) is not limited thereto, and the computing devices (7) may include multiple servers for performing the same operation and / or different operations.

[0057] The user device (6) may include a communication interface capable of communicating with the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7). The user device (6) may include a user interface device for receiving user input or outputting information to the user. The user device (6) may include at least one processor for controlling the operation of the user device (6) and at least one memory for storing a program for controlling the operation of the user device (6).

[0058] The user device (6) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The user device (6) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, a display device, etc.

[0059] In one embodiment, the user device (6) may include a remote control device capable of remotely controlling the air conditioner (1). The remote control device may include various interfaces for controlling the air conditioner (1) or for configuring the air conditioner (1). In one embodiment, when the user device (6) corresponds to a remote control device configured to remotely control the air conditioner (1), the air conditioner (1) and the user device (6) may communicate directly.

[0060] The memory of the user device (6) may store a program, i.e., an application, for controlling the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7). The application may be sold installed on the user device (6) or downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0061] A user can access a computing device (7) by executing an application installed on a user device (6), create a user account, and perform communication with the computing device (7) based on the logged-in user account to register an air conditioner (1) on the computing device (7).

[0062] For example, if the air conditioner (1) is operated so that the air conditioner (1) can be connected to the computing device (7) according to the procedure guided by the application installed on the user device (6), the air conditioner (1) can be registered in the user account by registering the identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the air conditioner (1) in the corresponding user account on the computing device (7). It goes without saying that the information required to register a device such as the air conditioner (1) in the user account may be other information that can identify the device in addition to the serial number or MAC address of the device.

[0063] A user can control an air conditioner (1) using an application installed on a user device (6). For example, when a user logs into a user account using an application installed on the user device (6), a visual indicator representing an air conditioner (1) registered to the user account may appear. When a control command for the air conditioner (1) is input from the user device (6), the user device (6) can transmit the control command to the air conditioner (1) via the computing device (7).

[0064] The user device (6) can receive various information through the computing device (7) or directly from the air conditioner (1) registered to the user account.

[0065] A network can include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, while wireless networks can include any network that transmits and receives signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks can be interconnected.

[0066] A network may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a short-range wireless network that does not use an access point (AP). Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc.

[0067] An access point (AP) can connect the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) to a wide area network (WAN) to which the computing device (7) is connected. The air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) can be connected to the computing device (7) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0068] The access point (AP) communicates with the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but the wireless communication method of the access point (AP) is not limited to this.

[0069] According to various embodiments, the air conditioner (1) may be directly connected to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) without going through an access point (AP).

[0070] The air conditioner (1) can be connected to a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7) via a long-range wireless network or a short-range wireless network.

[0071] For example, the air conditioner (1) may be connected to the user device (6) via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth) and / or via a user device (6). As another example, the air conditioner (1) may be connected to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) via a wide area network (WAN) using a long-range wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0072] The air conditioner (1) can transmit information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (1) to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) via a network. For example, the air conditioner (1) can transmit information about the operation or status to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) when a request is received from the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7), when a specific event occurs in the air conditioner (1), and / or periodically or in real time.

[0073] When information on operation or status is received from the air conditioner (1), the computing device (7) can update the stored information on the operation or status of the air conditioner (1) and transmit the updated information on the operation and / or status of the air conditioner (1) to the user device (6) via the network. Here, updating information can include various operations in which existing information is changed, such as an operation of adding new information to existing information and an operation of replacing existing information with new information.

[0074] Information about the operation and / or status of the air conditioner (1) may include information related to the operation of the air conditioner (1).

[0075] For example, information related to the operation of the air conditioner (1) may include information about the operation time and operation end time of the air conditioner (1).

[0076] Information about the operation and / or status of the air conditioner (1) may include information collected by at least one sensor provided in the air conditioner (1).

[0077] For example, information about the operation and / or status of the air conditioner (1) may include humidity information and / or temperature information of the surrounding air.

[0078] The air conditioner (1) can obtain various information from the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) and provide the obtained information to the user. For example, the air conditioner (1) can obtain information related to the function of the air conditioner (1) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the computing device (7) and output the obtained information through the user interface device.

[0079] The air conditioner (1) can receive electrical signals corresponding to various notifications from the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7), and provide notifications corresponding to the electrical signals to the user.

[0080] The user device (6) can receive electrical signals corresponding to various notifications from the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7), and provide notifications corresponding to the electrical signals to the user.

[0081] The air conditioner (1) can operate according to control commands received from the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7). For example, if the air conditioner (1) has obtained prior approval from the user so that it can operate according to the control commands of the computing device (7) even without user input through the user device (6), the air conditioner (1) can operate according to the control commands received from the computing device (7). Here, the control commands received from the computing device (7) may include, but are not limited to, control commands input by the user through the user device (6) or control commands based on preset conditions.

[0082] The user device (6) can transmit information about the user to the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7) via the communication interface. For example, the user device (6) can transmit information about the user's location, the user's health status, the user's preferences, the user's schedule, etc. to the computing device (7). The user device (6) can transmit information about the user to the computing device (7) with the user's prior consent.

[0083] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can transmit settings related to the air conditioner (1) (e.g., settings for drying operation) to the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7) via the communication interface.

[0084] The air conditioner (1), the user device (6), and / or the computing device (7) can determine control commands using artificial intelligence technology. For example, the computing device (7) can process information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (1) and information regarding the user of the user device (6) using artificial intelligence technology, and transmit the processing result or control command to the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) based on the processing result.

[0085] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an example of an air conditioner management system according to one embodiment in which an air conditioner (1), a user device (6), and / or a computing device (7) exchange information and / or control commands with each other. The communication method of the air conditioner (1), the user device (6), and / or the computing device (7) or examples of information transmitted from the air conditioner (1), the user device (6), and / or the computing device (7) are not limited to the above-described description.

[0086] Figure 2 illustrates a refrigerant circulation circuit of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 2, the air conditioning system includes an air conditioner (1) and an outdoor unit (2). The air conditioner (1) may also be referred to as an indoor unit, as it is located in an indoor space requiring air conditioning. The air conditioner (1) may be installed inside a space separated from the outside by a wall or partition, such as the interior of a house or an office, for example.

[0088] The outdoor unit (2) may be located outside the air conditioning space. The outdoor unit (2) may be installed outdoors, for example.

[0089] An air conditioning system includes a refrigerant passage that circulates refrigerant between indoor and outdoor environments. The refrigerant circulates between indoor and outdoor environments along the refrigerant passage, and can absorb heat or release latent heat during a state change (e.g., from gas to liquid, or from liquid to solid).

[0090] In order to induce a change in the state of the refrigerant, the refrigerant circulation device may include a compressor (3), an outdoor heat exchanger (4), an expansion valve (5), and an indoor heat exchanger (20).

[0091] The compressor (3) compresses the gaseous refrigerant, thereby heating the refrigerant. The high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant can be transferred to the outdoor heat exchanger (4) by the compressor (3). In the outdoor heat exchanger (4), the high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is converted from a gaseous state to a liquid state and also releases heat. The liquid refrigerant can be transferred to the expansion valve (5). The expansion valve (5) reduces the pressure of the liquid refrigerant, thereby cooling the refrigerant. The low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant can be transferred to the indoor heat exchanger (20). In the indoor heat exchanger (20), the low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant is converted from a liquid state to a gaseous state and also absorbs heat.

[0092] In this way, the refrigerant can release heat from the outdoor heat exchanger (4) and absorb heat from the indoor heat exchanger (20). The indoor heat exchanger (20) is installed in the air conditioner (1) together with the expansion valve (5), and the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can be installed in the outdoor unit (2) together with the compressor (3). Therefore, the indoor heat exchanger (20) can cool the air in the air-conditioned space (indoor).

[0093] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the indoor heat exchanger (20) is referred to as a 'heat exchanger (20)'. In addition, the components provided in the outdoor unit (2) may also be components of the air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) may be a concept that includes both the indoor unit (1) and the outdoor unit (2).

[0094] Fig. 3 illustrates the exterior of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 illustrates an air conditioner with an outlet opened according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 illustrates a cross-section taken along line A-A' of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 illustrates an air conditioner with an outlet closed according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 illustrates a cross-section taken along line B-B' of Fig. 7.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, the air conditioner (1) includes a main body (10) having at least one discharge port (41), a heat exchanger (20) for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the main body (10), a blower (30) for circulating air into or out of the main body (10), and a discharge unit (40) for discharging air blown from the blower (30) to the exterior of the main body (10).

[0096] The main body (10) may include a front panel (10a) in which at least one discharge port (41) is formed, a rear panel (10b) arranged at the rear of the front panel (10a), a side panel (10c) arranged between the front panel (10a) and the rear panel (10b), and upper / lower panels (10d) arranged at the upper and lower portions of the side panel (10c). At least one discharge port (41) may be formed in a circular shape, and at least two or more may be spaced apart from each other in the upper / lower direction of the front panel (10a). For example, the discharge port (41) may include a first discharge port (41a), a second discharge port (41b), and a third discharge port (41c).

[0097] An intake port (19) may be formed on the rear panel (10b) to allow external air to be sucked into the interior of the main body (10).

[0098] An intake port (19) is provided on the rear panel (10b) located at the rear of the heat exchanger (20) to guide air from outside the main body (10) to flow into the inside of the main body (10). Air flowing into the inside of the main body (10) through the intake port (19) absorbs or loses heat as it passes through the heat exchanger (20). Air that has exchanged heat while passing through the heat exchanger (20) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge port (40) by the blower (30).

[0099] The blower (30) may include a fan (32) and a grill (34).

[0100] A grill (34) may be provided in the discharge direction of the fan (32). In one embodiment, the fan (32) is a diffusion fan, but the type of fan (32) is not limited, and any configuration that allows air flowing in from the outside of the main body (10) to be discharged back to the outside of the main body (10) is sufficient. For example, the fan (32) may be a cross fan, a turbo fan, or a sirocco fan. The number of fans (32) is not limited, and in one embodiment, at least one fan (32) may be provided to correspond to at least one discharge port (41). For example, the fan (32) may include a first fan (32a), a second fan (32b), and a third fan (32c).

[0101] A blower (30) may be provided at the center of the fan (32), and a fan motor (33) for driving the fan (32) may be provided. For example, the fan motor (33) may include a first fan motor (33a) for driving a first fan (32a), a second fan motor (33b) for driving a second fan (32b), and a third fan motor (33c) for driving a third fan (32c). The fan motor (33) may include a motor whose rotation speed can be controlled. For example, the fan motor (33) may be a BLDC motor.

[0102] In the present disclosure, controlling the fan (32) may include controlling the fan motor (53).

[0103] The grill (34) is positioned in front of the fan (32) to guide air flow. In addition, the grill (34) is positioned between the fan (32) and the outlet (41) to minimize external influences on the fan (32).

[0104] The grill (34) may include a plurality of blades (35). The plurality of blades (35) can adjust the number, shape, and arrangement angle to control the wind direction or wind volume of air blown from the fan (32) to the outlet (41).

[0105] A door actuator (66), which will be described later, may be positioned at the center of the grill (34). The door actuator (66) and the fan motor (33) may be positioned on the same line in the front-rear direction. Through this configuration, a plurality of blades (35) of the grill (34) may be positioned in front of the fan (32).

[0106] The blower (30) may include a duct (36). The duct (36) is provided in a circular shape surrounding the fan (32) and is provided to guide the flow of air flowing toward the fan (32).

[0107] A heat exchanger (20) is placed between a fan (32) and an intake port (19), and absorbs heat from air flowing in through the intake port (19) or transfers heat to air flowing in through the intake port (19). The heat exchanger (20) may include a tube (21) and a header (22) coupled to the upper and lower sides of the tube (21). However, the type of the heat exchanger (20) is not limited.

[0108] The number of heat exchangers (20) arranged inside the main body (10) may be provided at least one corresponding to the number of discharge ports (41). For example, the discharge ports (41) may include a first discharge port (41a), a second discharge port (41b), and a third discharge port (41c).

[0109] The air conditioner (1) can perform multiple operations. The multiple operations can include a cooling operation that discharges heat-exchanged air through the discharge port (41) and a drying operation that discharges non-heat-exchanged air through the discharge port (41). The drying operation can also be referred to as a blower operation because it discharges non-heat-exchanged air. According to various embodiments, the drying operation can include a blower operation that operates only the fan (32) without operating the compressor (3) and / or a heating operation that operates the fan (32) together with the operation of the compressor (3).

[0110] Dry operation may also be referred to as cleaning operation from the perspective that it can prevent mold growth by removing moisture inside the air conditioner (1) (e.g., moisture around the heat exchanger (20)).

[0111] In heating operation, the flow of refrigerant compressed by the compressor (3) can be controlled so that indoor air exchanges heat with the hot refrigerant of the heat exchanger (20).

[0112] The flow of refrigerant compressed by the compressor (3) can be changed by the operation of at least one valve (not shown) for changing the flow of refrigerant. For example, the control unit (160) can perform heating operation or cooling operation by controlling the flow of refrigerant compressed by the compressor (3) by controlling at least one valve.

[0113] In cooling operation, the compressor (3) operates and the fan (32) may rotate. In cooling operation, the flow of refrigerant compressed by the compressor (3) may be controlled so that indoor air exchanges heat with the cold refrigerant of the heat exchanger (20). In dry operation, only the fan (32) may rotate without the compressor (3) operating. In one embodiment, the compressor (3) may operate and the fan (32) may rotate even in dry operation. In dry operation, the flow of refrigerant compressed by the compressor (3) may be controlled so that indoor air exchanges heat with the hot refrigerant of the heat exchanger (20). That is, according to various embodiments, the dry operation may also include the heating operation.

[0114] The cooling operation may include a first cooling operation that discharges heat-exchanged air through at least one discharge port (41), and a second cooling operation that discharges heat-exchanged air through discharge holes (42) provided in a porous discharge plate (14). The size of the discharge port (41) may be larger than the size of the discharge holes (42). In addition, the number of discharge holes (42) is larger than the number of discharge ports (41), and the discharge holes (42) may be distributed approximately uniformly throughout the discharge plate (14).

[0115] Specifically, the heat-exchanged air in the first cooling operation can be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner (1) through the open first discharge port (41a), second discharge port (41b), or third discharge port (41c). At this time, the air conditioner (1) can perform the first cooling operation by selectively opening the first discharge port (41a), second discharge port (41b), or third discharge port (41c) depending on the detected indoor temperature.

[0116] In the second cooling operation, the first discharge port (41a), the second discharge port (41b), and the third discharge port (41c) are all closed, and the heat-exchanged air can be discharged through the discharge hole (42) provided in the discharge plate (14).

[0117] That is, the air that has been heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger (20) can be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner through at least one discharge port (41) and discharge hole (42) by the fan (32).

[0118] In the first cooling operation, the heat-exchanged air is discharged through the discharge port (41), but not only through the discharge port (41), but also a portion of it may be discharged through the discharge hole (42). That is, in the first cooling operation, most of the heat-exchanged air may be discharged through the discharge port (41). In the second cooling operation, as in the first cooling operation, most of the heat-exchanged air may be discharged through the discharge hole (42).

[0119] Air passing through the blower (30) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge port (41).

[0120] When the air conditioner (1) performs the first cooling operation, the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge port (41). The discharge port (41) is provided so that the heat-exchanged air can be directly discharged to the outside. The discharge port (41) can be provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the main body (10). The discharge port (41) can be provided in the blowing direction of the fan (32) so that the heat-exchanged air can be directly discharged to the outside. The air blown by the fan (32) can flow through the first discharge path (41d) formed between the fan (32) and the discharge port (41). The first discharge path (41d) can be formed by a discharge guide (45).

[0121] The first discharge path (41d) can be formed by a discharge guide (45). The end (43) of the discharge guide (45) is connected to the discharge port (41), and the first discharge path (41d) can be formed along the inner surface of the discharge guide (45). The end (43) of the discharge guide (45) is exposed to the outside through the discharge port (41) of the main body (10), and the discharge guide (45) can be settled on the end (43) of the discharge guide (45) by moving the door (60) described later.

[0122] The outlet (41) can be opened and closed by the door (60).

[0123] The door (60) opens and closes the outlet (41), and heat-exchanged air can be selectively discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the outlet (41). For example, the door (60) may include a first door (60a) that opens and closes a first outlet (41a), a second door (60b) that opens and closes a second outlet (41b), and a third door (60c) that opens and closes a third outlet (41c).

[0124] The door (60) can move between an open position (P1) that opens the discharge port (41) and a closed position (P2) that closes the discharge port (41). The door (60) can move in the forward and backward directions between the open position (P1) and the closed position (P2).

[0125] In detail, each door (60) may include a door blade (62) and a door actuator (66) that operates the door blade (62).

[0126] The door blade (62) may be formed in a circular shape to correspond to the shape of the discharge port (41). When the door (60) is in the open position (P1), the door blade (62) is spaced apart from the end (43) of the discharge guide (45), and when the door (60) is in the closed position (P2), the door blade (62) may contact the end (43) of the discharge guide (45) to close the discharge port (41). For example, the door blade (62) may include a first door blade (62a) that opens and closes the first discharge port (41a), a second door blade (62b) that opens and closes the first discharge port (41a), and a third door blade (62c) that opens and closes the first discharge port (41a).

[0127] The door blade (62) may include a blade body (63) that is formed in a circular shape to correspond to the discharge port (41), and a blade coupling portion (64) that extends from the blade body (63) and is coupled to a door actuator (66).

[0128] The blade body (63) may be provided in a roughly circular plate shape. In addition, the blade body (63) may be provided so that one side faces the outside of the main body (10), and the other side faces the discharge port (41).

[0129] A display is provided on one side of the blade body (63), and the display can be provided to display the operating status of the air conditioner or to operate the air conditioner.

[0130] The door actuator (66) can move the door blade (62). The door actuator (66) can include a motor (not shown). The door actuator (66) is coupled to the blade coupling portion (64) of the door blade (62) and can move the door blade (62).

[0131] For example, the door actuator (66) may include a first door actuator (66a) that moves a first door blade (62a), a second door actuator (66b) that moves a second door blade (62b), and a third door actuator (66c) that moves a third door blade (62c).

[0132] The grill (34) described above can be arranged around the door actuator (66). Air blowing from a fan (32) provided on the rear surface of the grill (34) can be discharged forward through the grill (34).

[0133] When the air conditioner (1) performs the second cooling operation, the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge hole (42). Through this configuration, the heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside while reducing the wind speed. The discharge hole (42) may include a plurality of discharge holes (42) formed in a porous discharge plate (14) described later.

[0134] When the heat-exchanged air is discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge hole (42), the air blown by the fan (32) can flow through the second discharge path (42a) formed between the fan (32) and the discharge hole (42). The second discharge path (42a) can be formed by the discharge guide part (45) and the discharge panel (12) described later.

[0135] The discharge panel (12) can form a second discharge path (42a). The heat-exchanged air can be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner at a low speed through the second discharge path (42a) formed by the discharge panel (12) and the discharge plate (14) described later.

[0136] The discharge panel (12) may include a euro forming frame (13) and a discharge plate (14).

[0137] The flow path forming frame (13) can partition the interior of the main body (10) and the second discharge flow path (42a). The air exchanged through the flow path forming frame (13) can be prevented from flowing back into the interior of the main body (10). In one embodiment, the flow path forming frame (13) can be formed to extend from the grill (34) and be connected to the exterior panel (11).

[0138] A discharge hole (42) may be formed in the discharge plate (14). The shape of the discharge hole (42) is not limited, but in one embodiment of the disclosed invention, it may have a shape of a plurality of discharge holes (42). The discharge hole (42) may penetrate the front and rear surfaces of the discharge plate (14).

[0139] The discharge hole (42) can form a discharge area. A plurality of discharge holes (42) can be uniformly distributed in the discharge area, and can be provided in a concentrated manner in at least a portion. In one embodiment, a plurality of discharge holes (42) can be provided to be uniformly distributed in the discharge area.

[0140] The discharge area may be formed on at least a portion of the discharge plate (14). However, it is not limited thereto, and discharge may be performed through the entire surface of the discharge plate (14).

[0141] The discharge unit (40) may include a first discharge path (41d) and a second discharge path (42a).

[0142] The air blown by the fan (32) can flow through at least one of the first discharge path (41d) and the second discharge path (42a).

[0143] In the first cooling operation, air blown by the fan (32) can flow through the first discharge path (41d) formed between the fan (32) and the discharge port (41). In addition, in the second cooling operation, air blown by the fan (32) can flow through the second discharge path (42a) formed between the fan (32) and the discharge hole (42).

[0144] The discharge unit (40) may include a discharge guide (45). Air blown by the fan (32) may be controlled by the discharge guide (45). The discharge guide (45) is provided in front of the blower unit (30), and the discharge guide (45) is provided so that air flowing from the blower unit (30) can flow through at least one discharge path among the first discharge path (41d) and the second discharge path (42a).

[0145] The discharge guide (45) may include a guide body (46) and a guide groove (47).

[0146] The guide body (46) can form a first discharge path (41d) on its inner side. The guide body (46) can be provided in a cylindrical shape having a hollow portion. Specifically, the guide body (46) can be provided in the shape of a tube, with one side facing the blower (30) and the other side facing the discharge port (41).

[0147] The guide groove (47) is formed so that the second discharge path (42a) passes through it. The guide groove (47) may be provided on the guide body (46). The shape of the guide groove (47) is not limited, and any configuration that allows air to flow in the outward direction of the guide body (46) is sufficient. In one embodiment, the guide groove (47) may have a plurality of hole shapes along the circumference of the guide body (46).

[0148] In the first cooling operation, the door (60) opens the discharge port (41). In this case, air blowing from the blower (30) passes through the first discharge path (41d) formed on the inside of the guide body (46) and is discharged through the discharge port (41).

[0149] In the second cooling operation, the door (60) closes the discharge port (41). In this case, one side of the guide body (46) is blocked by the door (60), so that the air blowing from the blower (30) passes through the guide groove (47) formed in the guide body (46) and is discharged through the discharge hole (42).

[0150] Below, an example of the operation of the air conditioner (1) of the present invention is described.

[0151] Air drawn into the main body (10) from the outside exchanges heat with the heat exchanger (20). The air heated or cooled by the heat exchanger (20) is discharged to the outside of the main body (10) by the blower (30).

[0152] The air conditioner (1) discharges air that has passed through the heat exchanger (20) to the outside through at least one of the discharge port (41) and the discharge hole (42). That is, as in the first cooling operation, the air may be discharged through the discharge port (41) to quickly achieve heating or cooling, and as in the second cooling operation, the air may be discharged through the discharge hole (42) to slowly achieve heating or cooling throughout the entire room.

[0153] The discharge port (41) can be opened and closed by the operation of the door (60). When the discharge port (41) is opened, heat-exchanged air is discharged through the discharge port (41), and when the discharge port (41) is closed, heat-exchanged air can be discharged through the discharge hole (42).

[0154] In the first cooling operation, heat-exchanged air is discharged through the discharge port (41). In the first cooling operation, the door blade (62) is positioned in the open position (P1), and the door blade (62) is spaced apart from the end (43) of the discharge guide (45), so that the discharge port (41) is opened.

[0155] In this case, the air flowing from the blower (30) flows to the discharge port (41) through the first discharge path (41d) formed by the guide body (46) of the discharge guide (45).

[0156] When discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge port (41), it is discharged to the outside while maintaining the wind speed by the blower (30).

[0157] In the second cooling operation, heat-exchanged air is discharged through the discharge hole (42). In the second cooling operation, the door blade (62) is positioned in the closed position (P2), and the door blade (62) comes into contact with the end (43) of the discharge guide (45), so that the discharge port (41) can be closed.

[0158] In this case, the air flowing from the blower (30) passes through the guide groove (47) formed in the guide body (46) of the discharge guide (45) because the discharge port (41) is blocked by the door blade (62). Through this, the air flowing from the blower (30) passes through the second discharge path (42a) and flows into the discharge hole (42).

[0159] When air is discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the discharge hole (42), the air passes through the multiple discharge holes of the discharge plate (14) and the wind speed is reduced, so that it is discharged to the outside at a low speed.

[0160] This configuration allows the user to cool or heat the room at a comfortable air speed.

[0161] In dry operation, air may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner (1) through the open first discharge port (41a), second discharge port (41b) or third discharge port (41c), or may be discharged through the discharge hole (42) provided in the discharge plate (14) with the first discharge port (41a), second discharge port (41b) and third discharge port (41c) closed.

[0162] In the present disclosure, the discharge port provided in the main body (10) may be a concept including at least one of a discharge port (41) and a discharge hole (42).

[0163] Figure 9 is a control block diagram illustrating the configurations of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 9, an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include a user interface device (110), an environmental sensor (120), a compressor (3), a fan (32), a communication interface (140), and / or a control unit (160).

[0165] The user interface device (110) can enable interaction between the user and the air conditioner (1).

[0166] The user interface device (110) may include an output interface (112) and an input interface (111).

[0167] At least one output interface (112) can transmit various information related to the operation of the air conditioner to the user by generating sensory information.

[0168] For example, at least one output interface (112) can transmit information related to the settings of the air conditioner (1) and the operating time of the air conditioner (1) to the user. Information related to the operation of the air conditioner (1) can be output by a display, an indicator, and / or a voice. The at least one output interface (112) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0169] At least one input interface (111) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0170] At least one input interface (111) may include a power button for turning on the air conditioner (1), a setting button for setting the operation mode of the air conditioner (1), a control button for adjusting the rotation speed of the compressor (3) and / or fan (32), a timer button, etc.

[0171] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0172] At least one input interface (111) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0173] In the present disclosure, 'button' may be replaced with a UI element (User Interface Element), a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0174] The power button is a button to turn the air conditioner (1) on or off.

[0175] The setting button is a button for changing the operation mode of the air conditioner (1). The operation mode of the air conditioner may include cooling operation, heating operation, drying operation, etc.

[0176] Depending on each operating mode, the operating frequency of the compressor (3) and the rotation speed of the fan (32) may be different.

[0177] The control button is a button for controlling the operating frequency of the compressor (3) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the rotation speed of the fan (32). Depending on the operation of the control button, the operating frequency of the compressor (3) and / or the rotation speed of the fan (32) can be controlled.

[0178] The timer button is a button for setting the operating time of the air conditioner (1). The air conditioner (1) operates according to the operating mode selected by the user for the operating time set by the timer button, and can end operation when the operating time set by the timer button has elapsed.

[0179] The air conditioner (1) can process user input received through the input interface (111) or output information related to the air conditioner (1) through the output interface (112).

[0180] For example, user input received through the input interface (111) can be transmitted to the control unit (160). As another example, the control unit (160) can control the output interface (112) to output information related to the air conditioner (1).

[0181] The environmental sensor (120) can measure the temperature and humidity of the air around the air conditioner (1).

[0182] The environmental sensor (120) may include at least one temperature sensor (121) and at least one humidity sensor (122).

[0183] Sensor data collected from the environmental sensor (120) may include temperature data and humidity data. The temperature data may include temperature data of air that has not passed through the heat exchanger (20) (hereinafter referred to as "intake air") and temperature data of air that has passed through the heat exchanger (20) (hereinafter referred to as "discharge air"). The humidity data may include humidity data of intake air and humidity data of discharge air.

[0184] At least one temperature sensor (121) can measure the temperature of the air surrounding the air conditioner. At least one temperature sensor (121) can transmit temperature data of the air surrounding the air conditioner to the control unit (160).

[0185] According to various embodiments, at least one temperature sensor (121) may include a first temperature sensor that measures the temperature of air (intake air) drawn into the body (10) from the outside of the body (10) and / or a second temperature sensor that measures the temperature of air (outtake air) discharged from the inside of the body (10) to the outside of the body (10).

[0186] A first temperature sensor may be formed around the intake port (19). The first temperature sensor may measure the temperature of intake air. The first temperature sensor may transmit temperature data of the intake air to the control unit (160).

[0187] A second temperature sensor may be formed around the discharge plate (14). The second temperature sensor may measure the temperature of the discharged air. The second temperature sensor may transmit temperature data of the discharged air to the control unit (160).

[0188] According to various embodiments, at least one temperature sensor (121) may further include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the surrounding air of the outdoor unit (2).

[0189] The temperature of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) can be referred to as the temperature of indoor air, and the temperature of the surrounding air of the outdoor unit (2) can be referred to as the temperature of outdoor air.

[0190] At least one humidity sensor (122) can measure the humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner. At least one humidity sensor (122) can transmit humidity data of the air surrounding the air conditioner to the control unit (160).

[0191] At least one humidity sensor (122) may include a first humidity sensor that measures the humidity of air drawn into the body (10) from the outside of the body (10) and / or a second humidity sensor that measures the humidity of air discharged from the inside of the body (10) to the outside of the body (10).

[0192] A first humidity sensor may be formed around the intake port (19). The first humidity sensor may measure the humidity of intake air. The first humidity sensor may transmit humidity data of the intake air to the control unit (160).

[0193] A second humidity sensor may be formed around the discharge plate (14). The second humidity sensor may measure the humidity of the discharged air. The second humidity sensor may transmit humidity data of the discharged air to the control unit (160).

[0194] According to various embodiments, at least one humidity sensor (122) may further include a humidity sensor that measures the humidity of the surrounding air of the outdoor unit (2).

[0195] The humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner (1) can be referred to as the humidity of indoor air, and the humidity of the air surrounding the outdoor unit (2) can be referred to as the humidity of outdoor air.

[0196] The fan (32) can rotate according to the driving force provided by the fan motor (33).

[0197] Controlling the fan (32) by the control unit (160) may include controlling the fan motor (33) by the control unit (160). The control unit (160) may control the rotation speed of the fan (32) by controlling the fan motor (33).

[0198] The compressor (3) can operate based on a control signal from the control unit (160).

[0199] The control unit (160) can operate the compressor (3) based on the start of cooling operation of the air conditioner (1).

[0200] The door actuator (66) can operate based on a control signal from the control unit (160).

[0201] As described above, the control unit (160) can control the door actuator (66) to open the discharge port (41) during the first cooling operation. In addition, the control unit (160) can control the door actuator (66) to close the discharge port (41) during the second cooling operation.

[0202] The air conditioner (1) may include a communication interface (140) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7)) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0203] The communication interface (140) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0204] The communication interface (140) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7)) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface (140) can establish communication with the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0205] To this end, the communication interface (140) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication interface (140) 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). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0206] 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.

[0207] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0208] In one embodiment, the communication interface (140) may communicate with external devices such as a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7) via a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the user device (6) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the computing device (7) is connected. The air conditioner may be connected to the computing device (7) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0209] The control unit (160) can process user commands received from the input interface (111).

[0210] The control unit (160) can process data collected from various sensors (e.g., environmental sensor (120)).

[0211] The control unit (160) can process user commands received through the communication interface (140).

[0212] The control unit (160) can control various components of the air conditioner (1) (e.g., output interface (112), compressor (3), fan (32), door actuator (66), and / or communication interface (140)).

[0213] The control unit (160) may include at least one processor (161) that controls the operation of the air conditioner (1) and at least one memory (162) in which a program and data for controlling the operation of the air conditioner (1) are stored.

[0214] At least one memory (162) can store data required for various embodiments. The memory (162) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the air conditioner (1) or in the form of a memory that can be attached or detached from the air conditioner (1), depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the air conditioner (1) may be stored in a memory embedded in the air conditioner (1), and data for expanding the functions of the air conditioner (1) may be stored in a memory that can be attached or detached from the air conditioner (1). Meanwhile, in the case of the memory embedded in the air conditioner (1), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD). In addition, in the case of the memory that can be detachably attached to the air conditioner (1), it may be implemented as at least one of memory cards (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card)), external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), etc. It can be implemented.

[0215] At least one memory (162) can store an algorithm for performing cooling operation and drying operation.

[0216] At least one processor (161) controls the overall operation of the air conditioner (1). Specifically, at least one processor (161) is connected to each component of the air conditioner (1) and can control the overall operation of the air conditioner (1). For example, at least one processor (161) is electrically connected to a memory (162) and can control the overall operation of the air conditioner (1). The processor (161) may be composed of one or more processors.

[0217] At least one processor (161) can perform operations of the air conditioner (1) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (162).

[0218] At least one processor (161) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), an MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor (161) may control one or any combination of other components of the air conditioner (1), and may perform operations related to communication or data processing. At least one processor (161) may execute at least one program or instruction stored in the memory (162). For example, at least one processor (161) may execute at least one instruction stored in the memory (162), thereby performing a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0219] At least one memory (162) can store an algorithm for controlling the compressor (3) and / or the fan (32) depending on the operating mode of the air conditioner (1).

[0220] The configurations illustrated in FIG. 9 are examples of configurations of an air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include some configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated in FIG. 9, and conversely, may not include some of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 9 (e.g., a door actuator (66)).

[0221] A user device (6) according to one embodiment may include a user interface device (610), a communication interface (640) and / or a control unit (660).

[0222] The user interface device (610) can enable interaction between a user and a user device (6).

[0223] The user interface device (610) may include an output interface (612) and an input interface (611).

[0224] At least one output interface (612) can convey various information to the user by generating sensory information.

[0225] For example, at least one output interface (612) can transmit information related to the operation or status of an air conditioner connected to the user device (6) to the user. Various information can be output by a display, an indicator, and / or a voice, etc. At least one output interface (612) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0226] In one embodiment, at least one output interface (612) can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the settings of the air conditioner (1).

[0227] At least one input interface (611) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0228] At least one input interface (611) can receive user input for manipulating an interface element included in an interface provided by the user device (6).

[0229] Each interface element may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, icon, etc.) that indicates its function.

[0230] At least one input interface (611) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0231] The user device (6) can process user input received through the input interface (611) or output information related to the user device (6) through the output interface (612).

[0232] For example, user input received through the input interface (611) can be transmitted to the control unit (660). As another example, the control unit (660) can control the output interface (612) to output various information.

[0233] The control unit (660) can process user input received from the input interface (611).

[0234] The control unit (660) can process data received from an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1) and / or a computing device (7)) through a communication interface (640).

[0235] The control unit (660) can transmit user input received through the input interface (611) to an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1) and / or a computing device (7)) through the communication interface (640).

[0236] The control unit (660) can control various components of the user device (6) (e.g., output interface (612), communication interface (640)).

[0237] The control unit (660) may include at least one processor (661) that controls the operation of the user device (6) and at least one memory (662) that stores a program and data for controlling the operation of the user device (6).

[0238] At least one memory (662) can store data required for various embodiments. The memory (662) may be implemented as a memory embedded in the user device (6) or as a memory detachable from the user device (6) depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the user device (6) may be stored in a memory embedded in the user device (6), and data for expanding the functions of the user device (6) may be stored in a memory detachable from the user device (6). Meanwhile, in the case of memory embedded in the user device (6), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)). In addition, in the case of memory that can be detachably attached to the user device (6), it may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.), external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), etc.

[0239] At least one processor (661) controls the overall operation of the user device (6). Specifically, at least one processor (661) is connected to each component of the user device (6) and can control the overall operation of the user device (6). For example, at least one processor (661) is electrically connected to a memory (662) and can control the overall operation of the user device (6). The processor (661) may be composed of one or more processors.

[0240] At least one processor (661) can perform operations of the user device (6) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (662).

[0241] At least one processor (661) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), an MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor (661) may control one or any combination of other components of the user device (6), and may perform operations related to communication or data processing. At least one processor (661) may execute at least one program or instruction stored in the memory (662). For example, at least one processor (661) may perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (662).

[0242] At least one memory (662) can store an algorithm for providing an interface for changing the settings of the air conditioner (1).

[0243] The communication interface (640) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0244] The communication interface (640) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1) and / or a computing device (7)) or receive data from the external device. For example, the communication interface (640) can establish communication with the air conditioner (1) and / or the computing device (7) and transmit and receive various data.

[0245] To this end, the communication interface (640) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication interface (640) 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). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0246] 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.

[0247] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0248] A computing device (7) according to one embodiment may include a processor (761), a memory (762) and / or a communication interface (740).

[0249] The processor (761) can process data received from the communication interface (740).

[0250] For example, the processor (761) can process data collected from an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1), and / or a user device (6)) via a communication interface (740).

[0251] The processor (761) can control the overall operation of the computing device (7).

[0252] The computing device (7) may include at least one memory (762) in which programs and data for controlling the operation of the computing device (7) are stored.

[0253] At least one memory (762) can store data required for various embodiments. The memory (762) may be implemented as a memory embedded in the computing device (7) or as a memory detachable from the computing device (7) depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the computing device (7) may be stored in a memory embedded in the computing device (7), and data for expanding the functions of the computing device (7) may be stored in a memory detachable from the computing device (7). Meanwhile, in the case of memory embedded in the computing device (7), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)). In addition, in the case of memory that can be detachably attached to the computing device (7), it may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.), external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), etc.

[0254] At least one processor (761) controls the overall operation of the computing device (7). Specifically, at least one processor (761) is connected to each component of the computing device (7) and can control the overall operation of the computing device (7). For example, at least one processor (761) is electrically connected to a memory (762) and can control the overall operation of the computing device (7). The processor (761) may be composed of one or more processors.

[0255] At least one processor (761) can perform operations of a computing device (7) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in a memory (762).

[0256] At least one processor (761) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), an MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor (761) may control one or any combination of other components of the computing device (7) and may perform operations related to communication or data processing. At least one processor (761) may execute at least one program or instruction stored in the memory (762). For example, at least one processor (761) may perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in the memory (762).

[0257] At least one memory (762) may store an algorithm for processing data received from an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1), and / or a user device (6)).

[0258] The communication interface (740) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0259] The communication interface (740) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., an air conditioner (1) and / or a user device (6)), or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface (740) can establish communication with the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6), and transmit and receive various data.

[0260] To this end, the communication interface (740) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication interface (740) 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). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These different types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0261] 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.

[0262] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0263] When a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one processor (161, 661, 761), or may be performed by a plurality of processors (161, 661, 761). For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to at least one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by the first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by the first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by the second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence-only processor).

[0264] At least one processor (161, 661, 761) may be implemented as a single core processor including one core, or may be implemented as at least one multicore processor including multiple cores (e.g., homogeneous multicore or heterogeneous multicore). When at least one processor (161, 661, 761) is implemented as a multicore processor, each of the multiple cores included in the multicore processor may include an internal memory of the processor, such as a cache memory or an on-chip memory, and a common cache shared by the multiple cores may be included in the multicore processor. In addition, each of the multiple cores (or some of the multiple cores) included in the multicore processor may independently read and execute a program instruction for implementing a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, or all (or some) of the multiple cores may be linked to read and execute a program instruction for implementing a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0265] When a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one core among the plurality of cores included in a multi-core processor, or may be performed by the plurality of cores. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to at least one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first core included in the multi-core processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first core included in the multi-core processor, and the third operation may be performed by a second core included in the multi-core processor.

[0266] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a processor (161, 661, 761) may mean a system on a chip (SoC) in which at least one processor and other electronic components are integrated, a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, or a core included in a single-core processor or a multi-core processor, wherein the core may be implemented as a CPU, a GPU, an APU, a MIC, a DSP, an NPU, a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0267] According to various embodiments, the communication interface (140) of the air conditioner (1) may be directly connected (e.g., connected via a short-range communication module) to the communication interface (640) of the user device (6).

[0268] According to various embodiments, the communication interface (140) of the air conditioner (1) may be indirectly connected to the communication interface (640) of the user device (6) (e.g., via the communication interface (740) of the computing device (7)).

[0269] Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for managing an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0270] Referring to FIG. 10, a management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1000) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time of a fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in a dry operation.

[0271] The target operating time of the fan (32) may also be referred to as the target drying time in that it corresponds to the operating time of the drying operation.

[0272] The target rotation speed of the fan (32) may also be referred to as the target drying air volume in that it corresponds to the air volume in drying operation.

[0273] A user command is a command received from a user and can be received through the input interface (111) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the input interface (611) of the user device (6).

[0274] The operation of receiving a user command to set a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation can be performed by the air conditioner (1).

[0275] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can receive a user command to set a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in drying operation through the input interface (111) of the air conditioner (1).

[0276] In one embodiment, the user device (6) receives a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation through the input interface (611) of the user device (6) and transmits the same to the air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) can receive a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation from the user device (6) through the communication interface (140).

[0277] According to the prior art, there was no method by which a user could directly set the target operation time of the fan (32) or the target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation, and accordingly, it was not easy to perform the drying operation considering the user's situation.

[0278] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (2000) of performing a drying operation by operating a fan (32) at a target rotation speed set according to a user command for a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0279] According to the present disclosure, user convenience can be improved by allowing the user to set a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation.

[0280] The air conditioner (1) can store the target operation time and target rotation speed in dry operation in the memory (162).

[0281] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can store a target rotation speed set according to a user command and a target operation time set according to a user command in a memory (162).

[0282] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a target rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command, and can store the target operation time set according to the user command and the target rotation speed determined based on the target operation time set according to the user command in a memory (162).

[0283] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a target operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command, and can store the target rotation speed set according to the user command and the target operation time determined based on the target rotation speed set according to the user command in a memory (162).

[0284] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a target operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command, and transmit the target rotation speed set according to the user command and the target operation time determined based on the target rotation speed set according to the user command to the air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) can store the target rotation speed and the target operation time received from the user device (6) in the memory (162).

[0285] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a target rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command, and can transmit the target operation time set according to the user command and the target rotation speed determined based on the target operation time set according to the user command to the air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) can store the target rotation speed and the target operation time received from the user device (6) in the memory (162).

[0286] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can perform a drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed for a target operation time in response to satisfaction of a start condition of the drying operation.

[0287] The start conditions of the drying operation may include the end conditions of the cooling operation.

[0288] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can terminate the cooling operation in response to the termination condition of the cooling operation being satisfied, and perform the drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed for a target operation time.

[0289] The termination condition of the cooling operation may include receiving a cooling operation termination command from a user.

[0290] The air conditioner (1) can receive a cooling operation termination command from the user device (6) through the input interface (111) or through the communication interface (140).

[0291] The start condition of a dry operation may include receiving a dry operation command.

[0292] The air conditioner (1) can receive a drying operation start command from the user device (6) through the input interface (111) or through the communication interface (140).

[0293] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can update the target operation time and target rotation speed stored in the memory (162) when the target operation time and target rotation speed change according to a user command.

[0294] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a target operation time is determined based on a target rotation speed set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0295] Referring to FIG. 11, the operation (1000) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation may include an operation (1110) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation.

[0296] An interface for changing the settings of the dry operation may be provided via the output interface (112) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the output interface (612) of the user device (6).

[0297] In one embodiment, the processor (161) of the air conditioner (1) can control the output interface (112) to provide an interface for changing the settings of the drying operation. In one embodiment, the processor (661) of the user device (6) can control the output interface (612) to provide an interface for changing the settings of the drying operation. In one embodiment, the processor (761) of the computing device (7) can transmit an electrical signal to the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) to provide an interface for changing the settings of the drying operation.

[0298] In the present disclosure, providing an interface by a computing device (7) may include transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) that causes the computing device (7) to provide the interface.

[0299] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) may provide an interface for changing the settings of the drying operation through the output interface (112) according to the user's operation.

[0300] In one embodiment, the user device (6) may provide an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation through the output interface (612) according to the user's operation.

[0301] The operation (1000) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation may include the operation (1120) of receiving a user command for setting a target rotation speed.

[0302] A user can input a user command to set a target rotation speed through the input interface (111) of the air conditioner (1).

[0303] A user can input a user command to set a target rotation speed through the input interface (611) of the user device (6).

[0304] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1130) of determining a target operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0305] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a target operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0306] According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store a lookup table in which a target operation time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store an algorithm for determining a target operation time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0307] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a target operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0308] According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table in which a target operation time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store an algorithm for determining a target operation time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0309] In one embodiment, the target operation time may be set short based on a fast target rotation speed. That is, the target operation time may be set long based on a slow target rotation speed.

[0310] The operation (1110) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation may include an operation of outputting a visual element indicating a target operation time determined based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0311] In the present disclosure, visual elements may include characters, shapes, text, images, animations, etc., and may be implemented in various forms capable of providing visual information.

[0312] If the target operation time is short even though the target rotation speed of the fan (32) is slow in dry operation, the efficiency of dry operation may be significantly reduced.

[0313] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user is given autonomy to set a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation, and the efficiency of the drying operation can be prevented from deteriorating by automatically setting a target operation time corresponding to the target rotation speed of the fan (32).

[0314] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a minimum operation time is determined based on a target rotation speed set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0315] Referring to FIG. 12, a management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1121) of determining a minimum operation time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0316] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a minimum operating time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0317] According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store a lookup table in which a minimum operating time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store an algorithm for determining a minimum operating time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0318] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a minimum operating time based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0319] According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table in which a minimum operating time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store an algorithm for determining a minimum operating time corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0320] In one embodiment, the minimum operation time may be set short based on a fast target rotation speed. That is, the minimum operation time may be set long based on a slow target rotation speed.

[0321] The operation (1110) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry run may include the operation (1123) of outputting a visual element indicating a minimum operation time determined based on a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0322] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1125) of limiting a range of settable target operation times so that the target operation time does not become shorter than the minimum operation time.

[0323] By limiting the range of settable target operation times (1125) so that the target operation time does not become shorter than the minimum operation time, the user may not be able to set the target operation time shorter than the minimum operation time through the interface for changing the settings of the dry operation.

[0324] Limiting the range of settable target operation times may include limiting the settable range of target operation times.

[0325] A method for managing an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1127) of providing a visual element indicating that the range of the target operating time is limited in response to a user's intention to lower the target operating time below the minimum operating time being detected.

[0326] Detecting a user's intention to lower the target motion time below the minimum motion time may include detecting a user input to lower the target motion time below the minimum motion time.

[0327] For example, the action (1127) of providing a visual element indicating that the range of target motion time is limited may include outputting a pop-up window indicating that the range of target motion time is limited.

[0328] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user is given autonomy to set a target rotation speed of a fan (32) and a target operation time of the fan (32) in a drying operation, but the target operation time corresponding to the target rotation speed of the fan (32) can be prevented from falling below a minimum operation time that may reduce the efficiency of the drying operation.

[0329] Fig. 13 illustrates an example of an interface for changing settings of a dry operation according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 illustrates another example of an interface for changing settings of a dry operation according to one embodiment.

[0330] Referring to FIG. 13, an interface (U1) for changing the settings of the dry operation may include an interface element (U11a) for setting a target rotation speed and / or an interface element (U12) for setting a target operation time.

[0331] According to various embodiments, the interface element (U11a) for setting the target rotation speed illustrated in FIG. 13 may be replaced by the interface element (U11b) for setting the target rotation speed illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0332] According to various embodiments, the interface (U1) for changing the settings of the dry operation may include both the interface element (U11a) illustrated in FIG. 13 and the interface element (U11b) illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0333] The interface element (U11a) for setting the target rotation speed illustrated in FIG. 13 may include a tool for setting the target rotation speed. The tool for setting the target rotation speed may be implemented in the form of a rod, but the shape of the tool for setting the target rotation speed is not limited thereto.

[0334] In the present disclosure, receiving a user command to set a target rotation speed may include a tool for setting the target rotation speed being operated by the user.

[0335] The interface element (U11a) for setting the target rotation speed may include a visual display indicating the set target rotation speed according to the user's operation.

[0336] Users can intuitively understand their set target rotation speed by checking the visual indicator indicating the target rotation speed. For example, the visual indicator indicating the target rotation speed may include relative terms such as "Stage 1, Stage 2." However, examples of visual indicators indicating the target rotation speed are not limited to this, and may also include numerical values ​​directly indicating the target rotation speed.

[0337] The interface element (U11a) for setting the target rotation speed may further include an element for automatically setting the target rotation speed.

[0338] When an element for automatically setting a target rotation speed is selected, the target rotation speed can be automatically selected as a target rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0339] In one embodiment, the interface element (U11b) for setting the target rotation speed may include an interface element (U11b) for setting the noise level of the dry operation.

[0340] The interface element (U11b) for setting the noise level of the dry operation illustrated in Fig. 14 may include a tool for setting the noise level of the dry operation. The tool for setting the noise level of the dry operation may be implemented in the form of a rod, but the form of the tool for setting the target rotation speed is not limited thereto.

[0341] In the present disclosure, receiving a user command to set a target rotation speed may include a tool for setting a noise level of the dry operation being operated by the user.

[0342] The interface element (U11b) for setting the noise level of the dry operation may include a visual display indicating the noise level of the dry operation set according to the user's operation.

[0343] Users can intuitively understand their set noise level by checking the visual indicator indicating the noise level of the dry operation. For example, the visual indicator indicating the noise level of the dry operation may include relative terms such as "Normal, Low Noise Level 1, Low Noise Level 2." However, examples of visual indicators indicating noise levels are not limited to this and may also include numerical values ​​directly indicating the noise level.

[0344] When the noise level of the drying operation is set according to the user command, a target rotation speed corresponding to the noise level of the drying operation can be determined.

[0345] To this end, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1), the memory (662) of the user device (6), and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) can store a lookup table in which a target rotation speed corresponding to the noise level of the drying operation is mapped.

[0346] For example, if the noise level of the drying operation is set to low noise level 1, the target rotation speed can be determined to be approximately 700 RPM, and if the noise level of the drying operation is set to low noise level 2, the target rotation speed of the fan (32) can be determined to be approximately 500 RPM.

[0347] The interface element (U12) for setting the target operation time may include a visual element indicating the minimum operation time.

[0348] Users can see the range of target motion times they can set through a visual element indicating the minimum motion time.

[0349] An interface element (U12) for setting a target operation time may include a tool for setting the target operation time. In the present disclosure, receiving a user command for setting the target operation time may include the tool for setting the target operation time being operated by the user.

[0350] In one embodiment, the interface (U1) for changing the settings of the dry operation may include a visual element (U13) indicating the cleaning efficiency by the dry operation based on a target operation time and target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0351] The visual element (U13) indicating the cleaning efficiency by dry operation may include a visual element indicating the degree of change in the internal dehumidification efficiency and / or mold growth potential of the air conditioner (1) compared to the basic dry operation.

[0352] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can determine a cleaning efficiency corresponding to a target rotation speed and target operation time set according to a user command.

[0353] To this end, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1), the memory (662) of the user device (6), and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) can store a lookup table in which a cleaning efficiency corresponding to a target rotation speed and a target operation time is mapped.

[0354] In one embodiment, the interface (U1) for changing the settings of the drying operation may include a visual element (U14) indicating a recommended drying time determined based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0355] In one embodiment, the visual element (U14) indicating the recommended drying time may include a visual element indicating information about the recommended drying time.

[0356] The visual element (U14) indicating the recommended drying time may include a visual element indicating the average operating time information of the air conditioner (1) for a predetermined period (e.g., 3 days), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0357] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can determine a recommended drying time based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0358] Temperature information and humidity information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) can be obtained by the environmental sensor (120) of the air conditioner (1). Temperature information and humidity information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) can be transmitted from the air conditioner (1) to a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7).

[0359] The temperature information and humidity information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) may include the temperature and humidity of indoor air and / or the temperature and humidity of outdoor air.

[0360] Information on the average operating time of the air conditioner (1) can also be obtained by the air conditioner (1) and transmitted from the air conditioner (1) to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7).

[0361] The memory (162) of the air conditioner (1), the memory (662) of the user device (6), and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) can store an algorithm for calculating a recommended drying time based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0362] As another example, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1), the memory (662) of the user device (6), and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table for calculating a recommended drying time based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0363] As another example, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1), the memory (662) of the user device (6), and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) can store a learned artificial intelligence model for calculating a recommended drying time based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information.

[0364] In one embodiment, the interface (U1) for changing the settings of the dry run may include a visual element (U15) indicating a noise level corresponding to a target rotation speed set according to a user command.

[0365] The user can check the visual element (U15) indicating the noise level and change the noise level by changing the target rotation speed according to his / her purpose.

[0366] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a visual element indicating a minimum operation time according to one embodiment.

[0367] Referring to FIG. 15, the user can set the target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation through the interface elements (U11a, U11b) for setting the target rotation speed.

[0368] The air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can determine the minimum drying time based on the target rotation speed set according to the user command, and output information about the minimum drying time through the output interface (112) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the output interface (612) of the user device (6).

[0369] The user can take an action to lower the target operation time of the fan (32) in dry operation below the minimum operation time through the interface element (U12) for setting the target operation time.

[0370] For example, if the interface element (U12) for setting the target operation time includes a bar-shaped tool, the user can drag the bar-shaped tool in a direction that lowers the target drying time.

[0371] However, the act of lowering the target operation time of the fan (32) in dry operation to a minimum operation time is not limited to drag input, and the act of lowering the target operation time to a minimum operation time can be changed in various ways depending on the form of the tool for setting the target operation time.

[0372] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a visual element provided when a user attempts to set a target motion time shorter than a minimum motion time, according to one embodiment.

[0373] Referring to FIG. 16, the air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) may provide a visual element (UT) indicating that the range of the target operating time is limited in response to detecting a user's intention to lower the target operating time below the minimum operating time.

[0374] The visual element (UT) indicating that the range of target motion time is limited may include a pop-up window, but the form of the visual element (UT) indicating that the range of target motion time is limited is not limited thereto.

[0375] The user can confirm a visual element (UT) indicating that the range of the target operation time is limited and can increase the target rotation speed or give up changing the target operation time through the interface elements (U11a, U11b) for setting the target rotation speed to reduce the drying time.

[0376] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user is given the autonomy to set the drying operation, but the target operating time corresponding to the target rotation speed of the fan (32) is prevented from falling below a minimum operating time that may reduce the efficiency of the drying operation.

[0377] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, even if only the target rotation speed is set according to a user command, the target operation time can be automatically set, or the user can be enabled to set the target operation time within a limited range according to the minimum operation time.

[0378] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a target rotation speed is determined based on a target operation time set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0379] Referring to FIG. 17, the operation (1000) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation may include an operation (1210) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation.

[0380] An interface for changing the settings of the dry operation may be provided via the output interface (112) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the output interface (612) of the user device (6).

[0381] The operation (1000) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time of the fan (32) and / or a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation may include the operation (1220) of receiving a user command for setting a target operation time.

[0382] A user can input a user command to set a target operation time through the input interface (111) of the air conditioner (1).

[0383] A user can input a user command to set a target operation time through the input interface (611) of the user device (6).

[0384] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1230) of determining a target rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0385] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a target rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0386] According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store a lookup table in which a target rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store an algorithm for determining a target rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0387] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a target rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0388] According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table in which a target rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store an algorithm for determining a target rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0389] In one embodiment, the target rotation speed may be set short based on a long target operation time. That is, the target rotation speed may be set fast based on a short target operation time.

[0390] The operation (1110) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation may include an operation of outputting a visual element indicating a target rotation speed determined based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0391] The visual element indicating the target rotation speed may include a visual element indicating the expected noise level due to dry operation.

[0392] If the target rotation speed is slow even though the execution time (target operation time) of the dry operation is short, the efficiency of the dry operation may be significantly reduced.

[0393] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user is given autonomy to set a target operation time of the fan (32) in the drying operation, and the efficiency of the drying operation can be prevented from deteriorating by automatically setting a target rotation speed corresponding to the target operation time of the fan (32).

[0394] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a minimum rotation speed is determined based on a target operation time set by a user, according to one embodiment.

[0395] Referring to FIG. 18, a management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1221) of determining a minimum rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0396] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a minimum rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0397] According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store a lookup table in which a minimum rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) may store an algorithm for determining a minimum rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0398] In one embodiment, the user device (6) can determine a minimum rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0399] According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table in which a minimum rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command is mapped. According to various embodiments, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store an algorithm for determining a minimum rotation speed corresponding to a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0400] In one embodiment, the minimum rotation speed may be set slow based on a long target operation time. That is, the minimum rotation speed may be set fast based on a short target operation time.

[0401] The operation (1210) of providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry run may include the operation (1223) of outputting a visual element indicating a minimum rotation speed determined based on a target operation time set according to a user command.

[0402] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1225) of limiting a range of settable target rotation speeds so that the target rotation speed does not become shorter than the minimum rotation speed.

[0403] By limiting the range of settable target rotation speeds (1225) so that the target rotation speed does not become shorter than the minimum rotation speed, the user may not be able to set the target rotation speed shorter than the minimum rotation speed through the interface for changing the settings of the dry operation.

[0404] Limiting the range of settable target rotation speeds may include limiting the settable range of target rotation speeds.

[0405] A method of managing an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (1227) of providing a visual element indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited in response to a user's intention to lower the target rotation speed below the minimum rotation speed being detected.

[0406] Detecting a user's intention to lower the target rotation speed below the minimum rotation speed may include detecting a user input to lower the target rotation speed below the minimum rotation speed.

[0407] The action (1227) of providing a visual element indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited may include outputting a pop-up window indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited.

[0408] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user is given autonomy to set the target operation time of the fan (32) and the target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation, but the target rotation speed corresponding to the target operation time of the fan (32) can be prevented from falling below the minimum rotation speed that may reduce the efficiency of the drying operation.

[0409] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a visual element indicating a minimum rotational speed according to one embodiment.

[0410] Referring to FIG. 19, an interface (U2) for changing the settings of a dry operation may include an interface element (U21) for setting a target operation time and an interface element (U22) for setting a target rotation speed.

[0411] The user can set the target operation time of the fan (32) in dry operation through the interface element (U21) for setting the target operation time.

[0412] The air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can determine a minimum rotation speed based on a target operation time set according to a user command, and output information about the minimum rotation speed through the output interface (112) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the output interface (112) of the user device (6).

[0413] The user can perform an action to lower the target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation below the minimum rotation speed through the interface element (U22) for setting the target rotation speed.

[0414] For example, if the interface element (U22) for setting the target rotation speed includes a bar-shaped tool, the user can drag the bar-shaped tool in a direction that lowers the target rotation speed.

[0415] However, the act of lowering the target rotation speed of the fan (32) in dry operation below the minimum rotation speed is not limited to the drag input, and the act of lowering the target rotation speed below the minimum rotation speed can be changed in various ways depending on the form of the tool for setting the target rotation speed.

[0416] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a visual element provided when a user attempts to set a target rotation speed slower than a minimum rotation speed, according to one embodiment.

[0417] Referring to FIG. 20, the air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) may provide a visual element (US) indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited in response to detecting a user's intention to lower the target rotation speed below the minimum rotation speed.

[0418] The visual element (US) indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited may include a pop-up window, but the form of the visual element (US) indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited is not limited thereto.

[0419] The user can confirm a visual element (US) indicating that the range of the target rotation speed is limited, and can increase the target operation time through an interface element (U21) for setting the target operation time to lower the target rotation speed, or give up changing the target rotation speed.

[0420] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user is given the autonomy to set the drying operation, but the target rotation speed corresponding to the target operation time of the fan (32) is prevented from falling below a minimum rotation speed that may reduce the efficiency of the drying operation.

[0421] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, even if only a target operation time is set according to a user command, a target rotation speed can be automatically set, or the user can be enabled to set a target rotation speed within a limited range according to a minimum rotation speed.

[0422] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can perform a drying operation based on a setting of the drying operation set by a user command.

[0423] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can receive user commands via an input interface (111). As another example, the air conditioner (1) can receive user commands from an external device (e.g., a user device (6) and / or a computing device (7)) via a communication interface (140).

[0424] Receiving user commands from an external device (e.g., user device (6) and / or computing device (7)) may include receiving information regarding settings for a drying operation from the external device (e.g., user device (6) and / or computing device (7)).

[0425] Thereafter, the air conditioner (1) can perform drying operation based on the drying operation settings set by the user in response to the drying operation start conditions being satisfied.

[0426] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of an interface provided to select a mode of drying operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, either a user-defined mode or an automatic mode.

[0427] Referring to FIG. 21, a management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation of providing an interface (U3, hereinafter referred to as 'mode selection interface') for selecting a mode of drying operation as a user setting mode or an automatic mode.

[0428] The mode selection interface (U3) can be provided via the output interface (112) of the air conditioner (1) and / or the output interface (612) of the user device (6).

[0429] In one embodiment, the processor (161) of the air conditioner (1) can control the output interface (112) to provide the mode selection interface (U3). In one embodiment, the processor (661) of the user device (6) can control the output interface (612) to provide the mode selection interface (U3). In one embodiment, the processor (761) of the computing device (7) can transmit an electrical signal to the air conditioner (1) and / or the user device (6) to provide the mode selection interface (U3).

[0430] The mode selection interface (U3) may include an interface element (U31) for selecting a user-defined mode and an interface element (U32) for selecting an automatic mode.

[0431] The interface element (U31) for selecting a user-configurable mode may include a visual indicator indicating whether the user-configurable mode is selected (or whether the user-configurable mode is activated). The user-configurable mode may also be referred to as a "manual mode" in that the user can manually change the settings of the drying operation.

[0432] The interface element (U32) for selecting the automatic mode may include a visual indication indicating whether the automatic mode is selected (or whether the automatic mode is activated). The automatic mode may also be referred to as an "artificial intelligence mode" in that the air conditioner (1) can change the drying operation settings depending on the surrounding conditions.

[0433] When the user-defined mode is selected via the interface element (U31) for selecting the user-defined mode, the automatic mode can be disabled. When the automatic mode is selected via the interface element (U32) for selecting the automatic mode, the user-defined mode can be disabled.

[0434] Before a user-defined mode is selected via the interface element (U31) for selecting a user-defined mode, the automatic mode may be set as the default.

[0435] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can perform a drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed of the fan (32) set according to a user command for a target operation time of the fan (32) set according to a user command only when the user setting mode is selected.

[0436] The mode selection interface (U3) may further include an interface element (U33) for providing an interface (U1, U2) for changing the settings of the dry operation.

[0437] In response to the selection of an interface element (U33) for providing an interface (U1, U2) for changing the settings of the dry operation, an interface (U1, U2) for changing the settings of the dry operation may be provided.

[0438] Fig. 22 is a flowchart for explaining how an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment performs a drying operation according to a user-set mode or an automatic mode.

[0439] Referring to FIG. 22, a management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (2000) of receiving a selection command for selecting a mode of drying operation as a user-defined mode or an automatic mode.

[0440] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include an operation (2100) of performing a drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed of the fan (32) set according to a user command for a target operation time of the fan (32) set according to a user command in response to the mode of the drying operation being selected as a user-set mode (example of 2000).

[0441] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include, in response to the mode of the drying operation being selected as the automatic mode (No of 2000), an operation (2200, 2300) of automatically determining the settings of the drying operation and performing the drying operation based on the determined settings of the drying operation.

[0442] The air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can determine the target operation time and target rotation speed of the fan (32) in drying operation based on the operation time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1).

[0443] Here, the operating time of the air conditioner (1) may include the time required between the start and end of the cooling operation performed immediately before the air conditioner (1) performs the drying operation. The temperature of the ambient air of the air conditioner (1) may include the temperature of the ambient air measured by the environmental sensor (120) at the end of the cooling operation. The humidity of the ambient air of the air conditioner (1) may include the average value of the humidity of the ambient air measured by the environmental sensor (120) during a predetermined period (e.g., 3 days) until the end of the cooling operation.

[0444] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can determine a target operation time and a target rotation speed based on the operation time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner (1). To this end, the memory (162) of the air conditioner (1) can store a lookup table, an algorithm, and / or a learned artificial intelligence model for calculating an optimal target operation time and target rotation speed based on the operation time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner (1).

[0445] In one embodiment, the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) may determine a target operating time and a target rotation speed based on the operating time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner (1). To this end, the air conditioner (1) may transmit information about the operating time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the air surrounding the air conditioner (1) to the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7).

[0446] To this end, the memory (662) of the user device (6) and / or the memory (762) of the computing device (7) may store a lookup table, an algorithm and / or a learned artificial intelligence model for calculating an optimal target operating time and target rotation speed based on the operating time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1).

[0447] In one embodiment, the air conditioner (1) can perform a drying operation based on a target operation time and a target rotation speed determined by a processor (161) of the air conditioner (1).

[0448] In one embodiment, the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7) can transmit information about the target operation time and target rotation speed determined based on the operation time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) to the air conditioner (1), and the air conditioner (1) can perform a drying operation based on the information about the target operation time and target rotation speed received from the user device (6) and / or the computing device (7).

[0449] According to the present disclosure, when a user does not want to use a user setting mode, the drying operation is performed based on the optimal target operation time and target rotation speed calculated by the air conditioner (1), the user device (6) and / or the computer device, thereby achieving optimal cleaning efficiency.

[0450] A management method of an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, in a management method of an air conditioner (1) that performs a cooling operation and a drying operation, receiving a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of a fan (32) and a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation; and performing the drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed of the fan (32) set according to the user command during the target operation time of the fan (32) set according to the user command.

[0451] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) further includes providing an interface for changing the settings of the dry operation; and the interface may include an interface element for setting the noise level of the dry operation.

[0452] Receiving a user command for setting the target rotation speed may further include receiving the user command for setting the noise level of the dry operation through the interface element; and setting the target rotation speed based on the noise level of the dry operation set according to the user command.

[0453] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) may further include determining a minimum operation time based on the target rotation speed set according to the user command; and limiting the range of the settable target operation time so that the target operation time does not become shorter than the minimum operation time.

[0454] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) may further include outputting a visual element indicating the minimum operation time.

[0455] The management method of the air conditioner (1) may further include providing a visual element indicating that the range of the target operation time is limited in response to detecting a user's intention to lower the target operation time below the minimum operation time.

[0456] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) may further include determining the target rotation speed based on the target operation time set according to the user command; and providing a visual element indicating the determined target rotation speed.

[0457] Providing a visual element indicating the determined target rotation speed may include providing a visual element indicating a noise level corresponding to the determined target rotation speed.

[0458] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) may further include determining the cleaning efficiency by the dry operation based on the target operation time and the target rotation speed set according to the user command; and providing a visual element indicating the cleaning efficiency.

[0459] The management method of the air conditioner (1) may further include determining a recommended drying time based on average operating time information of the air conditioner (1), temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1), and humidity information; and providing a visual element indicating the recommended drying time.

[0460] The management method of the air conditioner (1) may further include: receiving a selection command for selecting a mode of the drying operation as a user-set mode or an automatic mode; performing the drying operation by operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed of the fan (32) set according to a user command for a target operation time of the fan (32) set according to the user command in response to the mode of the drying operation being selected as the user-set mode; and performing the drying operation based on the target operation time and the target rotation speed automatically determined according to the operation time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the ambient air of the air conditioner (1) in response to the mode of the drying operation being selected as the automatic mode.

[0461] The management method of the above air conditioner (1) may further include performing the drying operation in response to the termination of the cooling operation.

[0462] Receiving the user command may include the air conditioner (1) receiving the user command through the user interface device (110) of the air conditioner (1).

[0463] Receiving the user command may include: the user device (6) receiving the user command through the user interface device (610) of the user device (6); the user device (6) transmitting the user command to the air conditioner (1); and the air conditioner (1) receiving the user command from the user device (6).

[0464] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a main body (10) including a discharge port (41, 42); a heat exchanger (20); a compressor (3) for compressing refrigerant supplied from the heat exchanger (20); a fan (32) for blowing air heat-exchanged in the heat exchanger (20) to the discharge port; and a control unit (160) for controlling the compressor (3) and the fan (32) to perform a cooling operation and a drying operation, wherein the control unit (160) receives a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of the fan (32) and a target rotation speed of the fan (32) in the drying operation, and operates the fan (32) at a target rotation speed set in accordance with the user command during the target operation time of the fan (32) set in accordance with the user command, thereby performing the drying operation.

[0465] The control unit (160) can perform the drying operation by receiving a selection command for selecting either a user-set mode or an automatic mode, and operating the fan (32) at a target rotation speed set according to the user command for a target operation time of the fan (32) set according to the user command only when the user-set mode is selected.

[0466] The control unit (160) can perform the drying operation based on the target operation time and the target rotation speed automatically determined according to the operating time of the air conditioner (1) and the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air of the air conditioner (1) in response to the automatic mode being selected.

[0467] The above air conditioner (1) may include a communication interface (140) that receives the user command from an external device (6, 7).

[0468] The above air conditioner (1) may include a user interface device (110) that receives the user command.

[0469] The control unit (160) can receive the user command for setting the noise level of the drying operation through the user interface device (110), and set the target rotation speed based on the noise level of the drying operation set according to the user command.

[0470] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0471] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0472] Additionally, a computer-readable recording 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.

[0473] 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 recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play 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 on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0474] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A management method for an air conditioner that performs cooling and drying operations, Receiving a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of the fan of the air conditioner and a target rotation speed of the fan for controlling the drying operation; A management method for an air conditioner, comprising: performing the drying operation by operating the fan at a target rotation speed of the fan set according to the received user command for a target operation time of the fan set according to the received user command; 2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising providing an interface for changing the settings of the above dry operation; The above interface is a management method of an air conditioner including an interface element for setting the noise level of the dry operation.

3. In paragraph 2, Receiving a user command to set the above target rotation speed, Receive the user command for setting the noise level of the dry operation through the interface element; A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: setting the target rotation speed based on the noise level of the drying operation set according to the received user command.

4. In paragraph 1, Determine the minimum operation time of the fan in the drying operation based on the target rotation speed set according to the received user command; A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: limiting a range of settable target operation times so that the target operation time does not become shorter than the determined minimum operation time.

5. In paragraph 4, A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: outputting a visual element indicating the minimum operating time.

6. In paragraph 4, A method of managing an air conditioner, further comprising: providing a visual element indicating that a range of said target operating time is limited in response to receiving a user command to lower said target operating time below said determined minimum operating time.

7. In paragraph 1, Determine the target rotation speed based on the target operation time set according to the received user command; A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: providing a visual element indicating the determined target rotation speed.

8. In paragraph 7, Providing a visual element representing the determined target rotation speed, A method for managing an air conditioner, comprising: providing a visual element indicating a noise level corresponding to the determined target rotation speed.

9. In paragraph 1, Determine the cleaning efficiency by the dry operation based on the target operation time and the target rotation speed set according to the received user command; A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: providing a visual element indicating the cleaning efficiency.

10. In paragraph 1, Determine a recommended drying time for the drying operation based on the average operation time information of the air conditioner, temperature information of the surrounding air of the air conditioner, and humidity information; A method of managing an air conditioner, further comprising: providing a visual element indicating the recommended drying time determined above.

11. In paragraph 1, Receive a selection command to select the mode of the above dry operation as a user-defined mode or an automatic mode; In response to the mode of the above drying operation being selected as the user setting mode, the drying operation is performed by operating the fan at the target rotation speed of the fan set according to the user command for the target operation time of the fan set according to the user command; A management method of an air conditioner, further comprising: performing the drying operation based on the target operation time and the target rotation speed automatically determined according to the operation time of the air conditioner, the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air of the air conditioner, in response to the mode of the drying operation being selected as the automatic mode; 12. In paragraph 1, A method for managing an air conditioner, further comprising: performing the drying operation in response to the termination of the cooling operation.

13. In paragraph 1, Receiving the above user command, A method for managing an air conditioner, comprising: receiving a user command through a user interface device of the air conditioner.

14. In paragraph 1, Receiving the above user command, A user device receives a user command via a user interface device of the user device; The user device transmits the user command to the air conditioner; A method for managing an air conditioner, comprising: receiving a user command from the user device; 15. A body including an outlet; heat exchanger; A compressor for compressing the refrigerant supplied from the above heat exchanger; A fan for blowing air in which heat exchange has occurred in the above heat exchanger to the above discharge port; and A control unit for controlling the compressor and the fan to perform cooling operation and drying operation; The above control unit, Receiving a user command for setting at least one of a target operation time of the fan and a target rotation speed of the fan for controlling the drying operation; An air conditioner that performs the drying operation by operating the fan at the target rotation speed set according to the received user command for the target operation time of the fan set according to the received user command.

Images