Air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

An air conditioner according to an aspect of the present invention includes; an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided below the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; a water level sensor for detecting the water level of the water stored in the base; and a control unit for rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor on the basis of the termination of the operation of the air conditioner and the detection result of the water level sensor.

Description

Air conditioner and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner of an improved structure and a control method thereof.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space, and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0003] An air conditioner can cool or heat a space using a refrigeration cycle. An air conditioner may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and piping. A refrigerant may circulate through the piping between the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator.

[0004] Air conditioners can be divided into separate air conditioners and integrated air conditioners. Separate air conditioners may include an indoor unit located indoors and an outdoor unit located outdoors. Integrated air conditioners may have both indoor and outdoor units located within a single housing.

[0005] In the case of these integrated air conditioners, the structural characteristics of both indoor and outdoor units being housed within a single housing can lead to condensation or external rainwater being trapped in the lower base. Furthermore, the condenser, which is exposed to the outdoor environment, can be exposed to contamination, such as the accumulation of foreign substances.

[0006] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner and a method of controlling the same, which can prevent and / or reduce contamination that may result from removing fresh water from a base.

[0007] In addition, an air conditioner and a control method thereof are provided that can prevent and / or reduce contamination and malfunction of a condenser by removing foreign substances accumulated in the condenser.

[0008] Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner and a control method thereof that can drive a wheel motor and a fan motor to remove fresh water and remove foreign substances from a condenser when the water in the base is full due to rain or the like.

[0009] Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner and a control method thereof capable of performing appropriate fresh water removal and foreign matter removal according to external environmental information.

[0010] Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner and a control method thereof that can improve the performance of reducing foreign matter in a condenser by detecting the absence of a user and rotating the fan motor at maximum speed accordingly.

[0011] 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.

[0012] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided at a lower portion of the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; a water level sensor for detecting a water level stored in the base; and a control unit for rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on the termination of operation of the air conditioner and the detection result of the water level sensor.

[0013] A control method of an air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided at a lower portion of the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; and a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; the control method may include: receiving an operation termination command of the air conditioner; detecting a water level of water stored in the base; and rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on a result of the detection.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from one direction.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from another direction.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a rear view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 6 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is an exploded view showing a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating how a scattering wheel operates in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12 is an enlarged drawing showing some components, such as a water level sensor, of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating controlling a fan motor and a wheel motor based on the operation termination and water level of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control of the fan motor and the wheel motor when it is determined that the water in the base is full due to rain or the like, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating controlling a fan motor based on external environment information according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing control according to various external environment information according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating controlling a fan motor based on user absence according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0032] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0033] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0034] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0035] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0036] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0037] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0038] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0039] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0040] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0041] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0042] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0043] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a standing air conditioner, or a system air conditioner.

[0044] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0045] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0046] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger placed in an outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in an indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe directly or indirectly connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0047] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0048] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, two-way, one-way, and duct-type types depending on how air is discharged.

[0049] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor unit can cool the room by blowing the cooled indoor air through the indoor heat exchanger. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor unit can heat the room by blowing the heated indoor air through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0050] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. For this refrigerant circulation, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in the gaseous refrigerant (hereinafter referred to as "refrigerant gas") through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0051] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the following order: compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, expansion device, and indoor heat exchanger, or in the following order: compressor, indoor heat exchanger, expansion device, and outdoor heat exchanger. The refrigerant circulation order may vary depending on the air conditioner's operating mode.

[0052] For example, if one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0053] For example, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, refrigerant may flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units may be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units may be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0054] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate simultaneously in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow switching valve, described below, and then discharged to circulate to the outdoor unit.

[0055] For example, when two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerants discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through one refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0056] Multiple outdoor units may be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into and circulated through a selectively operated outdoor unit via a flow switching valve. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant introduced into the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0057] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. For example, the expansion device may include an orifice that reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path as the refrigerant moves from upstream to downstream. The refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0058] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0059] The air conditioner may further include a refrigerant diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The refrigerant diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The refrigerant diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). For example, the refrigerant diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0060] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0061] When a mixture of liquid refrigerant (hereinafter referred to as “refrigerant liquid”) and refrigerant gas is introduced into the accumulator, the accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0062] An outdoor fan may be placed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0063] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor (hereinafter, referred to as the "outdoor unit sensor"). For example, the outdoor unit sensor may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include, for example, a temperature sensor for detecting air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting refrigerant temperature in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting refrigerant pressure in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0064] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal generated from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected from an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0065] The outdoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0066] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0067] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0069] The housing may include an outlet. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the outlet.

[0070] The indoor unit may include an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned on the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan to control the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0071] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and outlet.

[0072] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0073] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the outlet, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0074] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0075] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The input interface may receive user input regarding setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings).

[0076] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). The wired remote controller may receive configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. The input interface may also include an infrared sensor. The wireless remote controller may receive configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0077] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0078] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0079] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0080] For example, each sensor information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0081] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with other devices.

[0082] 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.

[0083] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0084] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0085] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to the components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0086] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0087] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0088] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0089] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0090] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0091] The processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0092] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0093] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0094] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0095] For convenience of explanation, the following description will exemplify a window-mounted air conditioner installed on a window and / or window frame. However, the contents of the present disclosure may also be applied to other types of air conditioners. For example, the contents of the present disclosure may also be applied to portable air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioners, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, and floor-mounted air conditioners.

[0096] Meanwhile, the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, referring to FIG. 1, when the air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the direction facing indoors can be defined as forward (+X direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner (3) faces outdoors can be defined as rear (-X direction). In addition, when the air conditioner (3) is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the direction facing vertically upward can be defined as upward (+Z direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner (3) faces vertically downward can be defined as downward (-Z direction). In addition, when the air conditioner (3) is mounted on the mounting assembly (2), the directions parallel to the +Y direction and the -Y direction with respect to the drawings can be defined as left and right directions.

[0097] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 1, an air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a mounting assembly (2).

[0099] The mounting assembly (2) can be provided to mount an air conditioner (3) to be described later. The mounting assembly (2) can allow the air conditioner (3) to be mounted on the structure (A).

[0100] The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be installable on the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be mountable on the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided so as to be fixed to the structure (A).

[0101] The mounting assembly (2) may be provided to seal between the air conditioner (3) and the structure (A). The mounting assembly (2) may be provided to seal between the indoor (I) and the outdoor (O).

[0102] For example, the structure (A) may include a window and / or a window frame. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure (A) may be provided in various ways depending on the type of air conditioner (3). For example, the structure (A) may include at least one of a wall, a ceiling, or a floor.

[0103] An air conditioning system (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an air conditioner (3).

[0104] The air conditioner (3) may be arranged to be mounted on the mounting assembly (2). The air conditioner (3) may be arranged to be mounted on the structure (A) by being mounted on the mounting assembly (2). The air conditioner (3) may be installed on the structure (A) via the mounting assembly (2). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (3) may be mounted on the structure (A) without the mounting assembly (2). For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 1, the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to perform the air conditioning function without being mounted on the structure (A).

[0105] An air conditioner (3) may be provided to cool or heat a room (I). The air conditioner (3) may be provided to exchange heat between indoor air and outdoor air, respectively. Specifically, the air conditioner (3) may perform a heat exchange operation using a refrigerant cycle, and may be provided to exchange heat between indoor air and a refrigerant, or may be provided to exchange heat between outdoor air and a refrigerant. The air conditioner (3) may be provided to absorb heat from indoor air and transfer heat to outdoor air when cooling the room (I). In addition, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to transfer heat to indoor air and absorb heat from outdoor air when heating the room (I).

[0106] One part of the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to face the room (I). Another part of the air conditioner (3) may be arranged to face the outdoors (O).

[0107] The air conditioning system (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1 is merely an example of a system in which an air conditioner is installed and operates in an air conditioning system according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0108] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from one direction. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another direction. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, an air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may be provided to form the overall exterior of the air conditioner (3). The housing (10) may form at least a portion of the outer surface of the air conditioner (3). The housing (10) may be provided to accommodate various components of the air conditioner (3) therein. The housing (10) may have an approximately box shape.

[0110] For example, the housing (10) may include a front case (11). For example, the housing (10) may include a rear case (12). The front case (11) may be provided to be detachably coupleable to the rear case (12).

[0111] The front case (11) may be arranged to face the interior (see I, Fig. 1). For example, the front case (11) may be arranged to form at least a portion of the front portion of the exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0112] The rear case (12) may be arranged to face the outside (O, see FIG. 1). For example, the rear case (12) may be arranged to form at least a portion of the rear exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0113] For example, the housing (10) may include a front panel (14). The front panel (14) may form at least a portion of the front surface of the housing (10). A second discharge port (11b) described below may be formed in the front panel (14).

[0114] The front panel (14) may be covered at least in part by the discharge panel (50) described below. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 7, the front panel (14) may be substantially entirely covered by the discharge panel (50), thereby preventing the front panel (14) from being exposed to the front exterior of the air conditioner (3). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the front panel (14) may have a part thereof covered by the discharge panel (50), while another part thereof is not covered by the discharge panel (50) and is exposed to the outside, thereby forming a part of the front exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0115] For example, the housing (10) may include a top panel (15). The top panel (15) may form the upper surface of the air conditioner (3).

[0116] For example, the housing (10) may include a first side panel (16). The first side panel (16) may form the right side among the two horizontal sides (Y direction) of the air conditioner (3).

[0117] For example, the housing (10) may include a second side panel (17). The second side panel (17) may form a left side among the two horizontal sides (Y direction) of the air conditioner (3). The second side panel (17) may be provided on the opposite side of the first side panel (16).

[0118] For example, the housing (10) may include a rear panel (18). The rear panel (18) may form the rear of the air conditioner (3).

[0119] For example, the housing (10) may include a base (13). The base (13) may form a lower surface of the air conditioner (3). The base (13) may be arranged to support at least a portion of a component arranged inside the air conditioner (3).

[0120] For example, the housing (10) may include a top cover (19). For example, the top cover (19) may be provided to form a portion of the upper surface and / or a portion of the rear surface of the air conditioner (3). However, the housing (10) may not include a separate top cover (19). For example, the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the top panel (15) or as a component of the rear panel (18). For example, a portion of the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the top panel (15), and another portion of the top cover (19) may be provided as a component of the rear panel (18).

[0121] For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, the front case (11) is illustrated as including a front panel (14), a top panel (15), a first side panel (16), and a second side panel (17), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the front case (11) may be formed to include only the front panel (14) and the top panel (15). For example, the front case (11) may further include other configurations in addition to the front panel (14), the top panel (15), the first side panel (16), and the second side panel (17).

[0122] For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, the rear case (12) is illustrated as including a rear panel (18), a base (13), and a top cover (19), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the rear case (12) may be formed to include only the rear panel (18). For example, the rear case (12) may further include other configurations in addition to the rear panel (18), the base (13), and the top cover (19).

[0123] The housing (10) of the air conditioner (3) described above is merely an example of a housing provided in an air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. An air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure may include a housing having various structures and shapes.

[0124] The housing (10) may include a first inlet (12a) formed to allow outdoor air to flow in. Outdoor air may flow into the interior of the housing (10) through the first inlet (12a).

[0125] The first inlet (12a) may be arranged to face the outdoors (O, see FIG. 1). The first inlet (12a) may be in communication with the outdoors (O). For example, the first inlet (12a) may be formed in the rear case (12) to allow outdoor air to flow in. For example, the first inlet (12a) may be formed in the rear panel (18). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first inlet (12a) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the outdoors (O).

[0126] The housing (10) may include a first outlet (12b) formed so that air that has exchanged heat with the first heat exchanger (40) is discharged to the outdoors (O). The outdoor air that has entered the housing (10) through the first inlet (12a) may be discharged to the outdoors (O) through the first outlet (12b) after heat exchange with the first heat exchanger (40).

[0127] The first exhaust port (12b) may be arranged to face the outdoors (O, see FIG. 1). The first exhaust port (12b) may be in communication with the outdoors (O). For example, the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in the rear case (12). For example, the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in the rear panel (18). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first exhaust port (12b) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the outdoors (O).

[0128] The first outlet (12b) can be distinguished from the first inlet (12a). The first outlet (12b) can be formed spaced apart from the first inlet (12a).

[0129] A first flow path (P1) may be formed inside the housing (10). The first flow path (P1) may be formed such that air introduced from the outside can flow therethrough. The first flow path (P1) may be formed between the first inlet (12a) and the first outlet (12b). For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided on the first flow path (P1). For example, the first fan assembly (100) may be provided on the first flow path (P1).

[0130] The housing (10) may include a second inlet (11a) formed to allow indoor air to flow in. Indoor air may flow into the interior of the housing (10) through the second inlet (11a).

[0131] The second inlet (11a) may be arranged to face the interior (I, see FIG. 1). The second inlet (11a) may be in communication with the interior (I). For example, the second inlet (11a) may be formed in the front case (11) to allow interior air to flow in. For example, the second inlet (11a) may be formed in the second side panel (17). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second inlet (11a) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the interior (I).

[0132] The housing (10) may include a second outlet (11b) formed so that air that has exchanged heat with the second heat exchanger (60) is discharged to the outside of the housing (10). Indoor air that has been introduced into the housing (10) through the second inlet (11a) may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the second outlet (11b) after heat exchange with the second heat exchanger (60). As described below, the air discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the second outlet (11b) may be discharged to the room (I, see FIG. 1) through an opening formed in the exhaust panel (50) or a plurality of exhaust holes (50h), each having a size smaller than the opening.

[0133] The second exhaust port (11b) may be arranged to face the interior (I, see FIG. 1). The second exhaust port (11b) may be in communication with the interior (I). For example, the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in the front case (11). For example, the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in the front panel (14) and may be covered by the exhaust panel (50). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second exhaust port (11b) may be formed in various parts of the housing (10) facing the interior (I).

[0134] The second outlet (11b) can be distinguished from the second inlet (11a). The second outlet (11b) can be formed spaced apart from the second inlet (11a).

[0135] A second flow path (P2) may be formed inside the housing (10). The second flow path (P2) may be formed to allow air introduced from the room to flow. The second flow path (P2) may be formed between the second inlet (11a) and the second outlet (11b). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided on the second flow path (P2). For example, the second fan assembly (200) may be provided on the second flow path (P2).

[0136] The first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2) may be arranged to be separated from each other. Outdoor air flowing through the first flow path (P1) and indoor air flowing through the second flow path (P2) may not mix inside the housing (10).

[0137] The air conditioner (3) may include a discharge panel (50). The discharge panel (50) may cover at least a portion of the housing (10). Specifically, the discharge panel (50) may cover a portion of the housing (10) where a second discharge port (11b) is formed. The discharge panel (50) may be arranged on one side of the second discharge port (11b). The discharge panel (50) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the second discharge port (11b).

[0138] For example, the discharge panel (50) may cover the front panel (14) in which the second discharge port (11b) is formed. The discharge panel (50) may form at least a portion of the front exterior of the air conditioner (3).

[0139] The exhaust panel (50) may be arranged to discharge at least a portion of the air discharged through the second exhaust port (11b). That is, indoor air that flows into the housing (10) through the second inlet port (11a) from the indoor space (I, see FIG. 1) is heat-exchanged with the second heat exchanger (60), and then at least a portion of the heat-exchanged air may sequentially pass through the second exhaust port (11b) and the exhaust panel (50) and be discharged back into the indoor space (I).

[0140] For example, the discharge panel (50) may include a plurality of discharge holes (50h) provided to discharge air flowing from the second discharge port (11b). The plurality of discharge holes (50h) formed in the discharge panel (50) may be formed such that each discharge hole (50h) has a smaller size than the second discharge port (11b).

[0141] Alternatively, as an example, an opening may be formed in the discharge panel (50) to allow air discharged through the second discharge port (11b) to be discharged. The opening formed in the discharge panel (50) may be formed to have a size larger than each of the plurality of discharge holes (50h) described above.

[0142] The discharge panel (50) can be coupled to the housing (10). Specifically, the discharge panel (50) can be coupled to the front case (11). The discharge panel (50) can maintain a fixed position with respect to the housing (10).

[0143] The discharge panel (50) may be formed in a substantially flat plate shape. However, this is not limited to the shape, and the discharge panel (50) may be formed in various shapes.

[0144] The air conditioner (3) may include a blade (20). The blade (20) may be arranged to open or cover an opening of the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may have a shape that roughly corresponds to the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0145] The blade (20) may be arranged to cover the opening of the discharge panel (50) at a position spaced apart from the second discharge port (11b). When the blade (20) covers the opening of the discharge panel (50), it may be arranged to be approximately parallel to the discharge panel (50).

[0146] The blade (20) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the housing (10). In addition, the blade (20) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may be coupled to the housing (10).

[0147] The blade (20) may be provided to guide indoor air discharged through the opening of the discharge panel (50). The blade (20) may be provided to control the discharge direction of air discharged into the room through the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0148] The blade (20) may be arranged to discharge a portion of the air discharged from the second discharge port (11b) while covering the opening of the second discharge port (11b) or the discharge panel (50). That is, after the indoor air (I, see FIG. 1) flows into the housing (10) through the second inlet port (11a) and exchanges heat with the second heat exchanger (60), a portion of the heat-exchanged air may sequentially pass through the second discharge port (11b) and the blade (20) and be discharged back into the indoor space (I).

[0149] For example, the blade (20) may include a plurality of exhaust holes (20h) provided to exhaust air flowing from the second exhaust port (11b). The plurality of exhaust holes (20h) formed in the blade (20) may be formed so that each exhaust hole (20h) has a smaller size than the second exhaust port (11b). In a state where the blade (20) covers the opening of the second exhaust port (11b) or the exhaust panel (50), a portion of the air exhausted from the second exhaust port (11b) may be exhausted through the plurality of exhaust holes (20h) of the blade (20).

[0150] An air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may operate in a windless operation mode to implement windless airflow. The windless operation mode may refer to a low-wind volume operation mode in which air is discharged at a certain speed or less without blowing air directly to a user. When the air conditioner (3) operates in the windless operation mode, air that has exchanged heat with the heat exchanger (60) may be discharged through a plurality of discharge holes (50h) of the discharge panel (50) and / or a plurality of discharge holes (20h) of the blades (20). In this case, for example, the blades (20) may be arranged to cover the openings of the discharge panel (50).

[0151] Conversely, when the blade (20) is positioned to open the opening of the discharge panel (50), most of the air that has exchanged heat with the heat exchanger (60) can be discharged through the opening of the discharge panel (50).

[0152] The air conditioner (3) may include a first heat exchanger (40). The first heat exchanger (40) may be provided to exchange heat with outdoor air introduced through the first inlet (12a). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed on the first flow path (P1). The first heat exchanger (40) may be disposed to face the first inlet (12a). The first heat exchanger (40) may also be referred to as an 'outdoor heat exchanger' in that it exchanges heat with outdoor air.

[0153] The air conditioner (3) may include a second heat exchanger (60). The second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to exchange heat with indoor air introduced through the second inlet (11a). The second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed on the second flow path (P2). At least a portion of the second heat exchanger (60) may be disposed to face the second inlet (11a). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to surround at least a portion of the second fan assembly (200). For example, the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the second fan assembly (200). The second heat exchanger (60) may also be referred to as an 'indoor heat exchanger' in that it exchanges heat with indoor air.

[0154] For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided as a condenser, and the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided as an evaporator. In this case, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to cool the interior. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first heat exchanger (40) may be provided as an evaporator, and the second heat exchanger (60) may be provided as a condenser. In this case, the air conditioner (3) may be provided to heat the interior.

[0155] The air conditioner (3) may include a drain pan (80). The drain pan (80) may be provided to collect condensate generated in the second heat exchanger (60). The drain pan (80) may be provided to support the second heat exchanger (60). The drain pan (80) may be provided to support the second fan assembly (200). For example, the drain pan (80) may include a mounting portion (81) on which the base (230) of the second fan assembly (200) is mounted.

[0156] The air conditioner (3) may include a compressor (70). The compressor (70) may be configured to compress the refrigerant for heat exchange operations by the first heat exchanger (40) and the second heat exchanger (60). The compressor (70) may be configured to compress the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure state. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor (70) may be introduced into the first heat exchanger (40) or the second heat exchanger (60).

[0157] For example, the compressor (70) may be positioned below the second fan assembly (200). For example, the compressor (70) may be positioned below the drain pan (80).

[0158] The air conditioner (3) may include a compressor cover (71). The compressor cover (71) may be provided to cover the compressor (70). The compressor cover (71) may prevent the compressor (70) from being exposed to the outside. The compressor cover (71) may be provided to protect the compressor (70).

[0159] The air conditioner (3) may include an expansion device. The expansion device may be provided to expand the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (40) or the refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (60).

[0160] The air conditioner (3) may include a control box (90). The control box (90) may accommodate a printed circuit board on which various electronic components are mounted.

[0161] The air conditioner (3) may include a control panel (30). The control panel (30) may be configured to acquire user input. Alternatively, the control panel (30) may be configured to display information regarding the operation, status, various settings, indoor temperature, humidity, etc. of the air conditioner (3). The control panel (30) may be electrically connected to the control unit of the air conditioner (3). For example, the control panel (30) may be positioned at the front of the front case (11).

[0162] The air conditioner (3) may include a first fan assembly (100). The first fan assembly (100) may be configured to cause outdoor air to flow within the housing (10). The first fan assembly (100) may be configured to cause outdoor air to flow between a first inlet (12a) and a first outlet (12b).

[0163] For example, the suction side (101) of the first fan assembly (100) may be arranged to face the first inlet (12a). For example, the discharge side (102) of the first fan assembly (100) may be arranged to face the first discharge port (12b).

[0164] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first fan (110). For example, the first fan (110) may be positioned to face at least a portion of the first heat exchanger (40).

[0165] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first fan motor (120) for driving the first fan (110).

[0166] The first fan assembly (100) may include a first frame (130) configured to guide outdoor air. For example, the first frame (130) may extend along the extension direction of the first fan (110). For example, the first frame (130) may have a shape extending approximately vertically (Z direction).

[0167] The air conditioner (3) may include a second fan assembly (200). The second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to circulate indoor air within the housing (10). The second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to circulate indoor air between the second inlet (11a) and the second outlet (11b).

[0168] For example, the intake side (201) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the second inlet (11a). For example, the discharge side (202) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the second outlet (11b). For example, the discharge side (202) of the second fan assembly (200) may be arranged to face the blade (20).

[0169] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second fan (210). For example, the second fan (210) may be positioned to face at least a portion of the second heat exchanger (60).

[0170] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second fan motor (220) for driving the second fan (210).

[0171] The second fan assembly (200) may include a second frame (240) configured to guide indoor air. For example, the second frame (240) may extend along the extension direction of the second fan (210). For example, the second frame (240) may have a shape extending approximately vertically (Z direction).

[0172] Referring to FIG. 7, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to be in contact. For example, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first fan (110) and the second fan (210). For example, the partition portion (132) of the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first fan (110) and the second fan (210) by being coupled to each other. For example, the first frame (130) and the second frame (240) may be arranged to partition the first flow path (P1) and the second flow path (P2). As a result, indoor air and outdoor air may not be mixed inside the housing (10).

[0173] The configurations of the air conditioner (3) described above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7 are merely examples of the configurations provided in the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the air conditioner according to the concept of the present disclosure may include various configurations.

[0174] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 8, an air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may generate condensate (W) during a process of performing a heat exchange operation through a refrigerant cycle.

[0176] For example, during the cooling operation of the air conditioner (3), the surface of the second heat exchanger (60) that exchanges heat with indoor air may be cooled by a refrigerant. During the heat exchange between the air containing water vapor and the second heat exchanger (60), condensate (W) generated by condensation of water vapor may form on the surface of the cooled second heat exchanger (60).

[0177] For example, the condensate (W) condensed in the second heat exchanger (60) can be primarily collected in a drain pan (80, see FIGS. 5 and 6) provided at the bottom of the second heat exchanger (60). Thereafter, the condensate (W) collected in the drain pan (60) can be moved to and collected in a base (13) located below the drain pan (60). However, this is not limited thereto, and the condensate (W) condensed in the second heat exchanger (60) can be moved to and collected in a variety of ways in the base (13).

[0178] The base (13) may include a collection portion (13a) provided to collect condensate (W). The collection portion (13a) may be provided on one side of the base (13) facing the internal space of the housing (10).

[0179] For example, the water collecting portion (13a) may be formed to be inclined with respect to the front-back direction (X) of the air conditioner (3). Specifically, the water collecting portion (13a) may be formed to be inclined with respect to the front-back direction (X) of the air conditioner (3) so that the water collecting portion (13a) extends downward (in the -Z direction) toward the rear (-X direction) of the air conditioner (3). As a result, the condensate (W) on the water collecting portion (13a) may move toward the rear (in the -X direction) of the air conditioner (3).

[0180] However, it is not limited thereto, and the water collection unit (13a) may be formed parallel to the front-rear direction (X) of the air conditioner (3).

[0181] The above description is only an example of a process in which water is collected in the base (13) in the air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and water may be collected in the base (13) through various processes. For example, when the air conditioner (3) is in cooling operation, when cold air generated by the second heat exchanger (40) is discharged through the second discharge port (11b), discharge panel (50), blade (20), etc., dew may form on various parts along the passage through which the cold air passes, and the dew may be collected by being moved to the base (13) by gravity. Alternatively, for example, when the air conditioner (3) is installed on a window (structure (A)) as illustrated in FIG. 1, the rear panel (18) of the housing (10) may be exposed to the outdoors (O). Therefore, for example, when it rains, there is a possibility that rainwater may flow into the housing (10) through the first inlet (12a), first outlet (12b), etc. formed on the rear panel (18) from the outside (O). In this way, not only water generated inside the housing (10), but also water flowing in from the outside of the housing (10) due to various causes may be collected in the base (13).

[0182] Below, the process of evaporating the water stored in the base and removing foreign substances accumulated in the condenser is described in detail.

[0183] The air conditioner (3) of the present invention is mainly characterized by its operation in a cooling cycle. Assuming that the first heat exchanger (40) described above is provided as a condenser (40) and the second heat exchanger (60) is provided as an evaporator (60), the following description will be made. In addition, the first fan (110) provided around the first heat exchanger (40) outdoors is described as an outdoor fan (110), and the first fan motor (120) that rotates the first fan (110) is described as a fan motor (120).

[0184] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0185] As described above, the air conditioner (3) may further include an evaporator (60), a condenser (40), a base, a water level sensor (710), a scattering wheel (310), a wheel motor (330), an outdoor fan (110), a fan motor (120), and a control unit (150). The control unit (150) may include at least one processor (151) and a memory (152).

[0186] The water level sensor (710) can detect the water level of the water stored in the base provided at the bottom of the evaporator. For example, the water level sensor (710) can detect when the water reaches a first water level and can detect when the water reaches a second water level. The second water level may be higher than the first water level. The water level sensor (710) is not limited thereto and can detect various water levels.

[0187] The scattering wheel (310) can scatter the water stored in the evaporator, and the wheel motor (330) can provide power to the scattering wheel (310) to rotate the scattering wheel (310). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0188] The outdoor fan (110) can blow outdoor air to the condenser (40) to promote heat exchange of the condenser (40), and the fan motor (120) can provide power to the outdoor fan (110) to rotate the outdoor fan (110). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0189] The communication unit (160) can perform communication with a server, etc. The control unit (150) can perform various controls described below based on the information received by the communication unit.

[0190] The control unit (150) may include a memory (152) that stores a control program and control data for controlling the wheel motor (330) and the fan motor (120), and a processor (151) that generates a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory. The memory (152) and the processor (151) may be provided integrally or separately.

[0191] The memory (152) can store programs and data for controlling the wheel motor (330) and fan motor (120).

[0192] The memory (152) may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAP) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (152) may include nonvolatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0193] The processor (151) may include various logic circuits and operation circuits, process data according to a program provided from the memory (152), and generate a control signal according to the processing result.

[0194] This control unit (150) can rotate the wheel motor (330) and the fan motor (120) based on the operation termination of the air conditioner (3) and the detection result of the water level sensor (710). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0195] FIG. 10 is an exploded view illustrating some components of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating how a wheel operates in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating some components, such as a water level sensor, of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] The scattering wheel (310) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the housing (10). More specifically, the scattering wheel (310) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the base (13), and may be provided to scatter condensate collected on the base (13) toward the condenser (40) as it rotates. The condensate collected on the base (13) may be scattered by a portion of the scattering wheel (310) (see FIG. 11) during the process in which the scattering wheel (310) rotates.

[0197] The condensate moved toward the condenser (40) can be evaporated by the air flow from the outdoor fan (110). The outdoor fan (110) can evaporate the condensate moved toward the first heat exchanger (40) by the air flow.

[0198] In this way, the air conditioner (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can remove condensate collected in the base (13) using the scattering wheel (310).

[0199] However, the arrangement of the scattering wheel (310) is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0200] The wheel motor (330) may be configured to generate driving force for the scattering wheel (310) to rotate. The driving force generated by the wheel motor (330) may be transmitted to the scattering wheel (310) through the rotating shaft (320). The wheel motor (330) may include various types of driving motors known in the art.

[0201] As described above, the air conditioner (3) may include a water level sensor (710).

[0202] The water level sensor (710) may be provided to detect various water levels of water stored in the base (13). For example, the water level sensor (710) may detect water at a first water level (l1) and a second water level (l2) higher than the first water level.

[0203] If it is determined that the water level of the water stored in the base (13) is above a certain level based on the detection results of the water level sensor, the wheel motor (330) and the fan motor (120) can be rotated to remove the water stored in the base (13) and remove foreign substances from the condenser (40).

[0204] The above describes the basic process of removing water contained in the base (13) and dust from the condenser (40) through the scattering wheel (310) and the outdoor fan (110). Below, each specific operation is described.

[0205] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating controlling a fan motor and a wheel motor based on the operation termination and water level of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0206] As described above, the control unit can rotate the wheel motor and fan motor based on the operation termination of the air conditioner and the detection results of the water level sensor. This will be described in detail below.

[0207] During the operation of the air conditioner, water may accumulate in the base due to condensation generated in the evaporator, and if this water is not removed in a timely manner, it may cause contamination. Accordingly, when the air conditioner stops operating (1301), the water level sensor detects the water level accumulated in the base and rotates the wheel motor and fan motor based on the detection result, thereby preventing contamination and resulting malfunctions.

[0208] That is, as the scattering wheel rotates in accordance with the rotation of the wheel motor, the water contained in the base is scattered around the condenser and evaporated to remove the fresh water, and the water scattered to the condenser can remove foreign substances accumulated in the condenser.

[0209] The water level sensor detects the water level of the water stored in the base, and if the detected water level is lower than the first water level (No of 1303), the control unit can rotate the wheel motor and rotate the fan motor at the first speed (1305).

[0210] Or, if the cooling operation time is less than the first hour (No of 1303), the control unit can rotate the wheel motor and rotate the fan motor at the first speed (1305).

[0211] Here, the first time can be set to an appropriate time to remove fresh water and foreign substances, etc., and can be, for example, 10 minutes.

[0212] If the water level detected by the water level sensor is higher than the first water level (example 1303), the control unit can rotate the wheel motor and rotate the fan motor at the first speed (1307). Here, the first water level can mean a height of approximately 30% of the entire base. The mode in which the wheel motor rotates and the fan motor rotates at the first speed is referred to as the first mode.

[0213] The control unit can perform the first mode for a reference time. The reference time can be set to an appropriate time for removing fresh water and foreign substances. For example, the reference time can be 10 minutes.

[0214] If the water level detected after the first mode is performed is lower than the first water level (example of 1309), the control unit can rotate the wheel motor and rotate the fan motor at a second speed that is slower than the first speed (1311).

[0215] The mode in which the wheel motor rotates and the fan motor rotates at a second speed is called the second mode.

[0216] The control unit can perform the second mode for a reference time. The reference time can be set to an appropriate time for removing fresh water and foreign substances. For example, the reference time can be 10 minutes.

[0217] By performing the above-described operations after the operation of the air conditioner is terminated, fresh water, etc. generated during the operation of the air conditioner can be removed to prevent contamination that may occur therefrom, and foreign substances accumulated in the condenser can be removed to prevent contamination and malfunction of the condenser.

[0218] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control of the fan motor and the wheel motor when it is determined that the water in the base is full due to rain or the like, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0219] The control unit can rotate the wheel motor (1403) if the water level detected by the water level sensor is higher than the second water level (example of 1401) that is higher than the first water level.

[0220] The control unit can determine that the water level in the base is full if the water level detected by the water level sensor is higher than the second water level.

[0221] If the detected water level is higher than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor (No of 1405), the control unit determines the number of times the first water level has been detected, and if the number of times the first water level has been detected is three or more (Yes of 1407), the rotation of the fan motor can be maintained (1409).

[0222] Since it can be seen that the fresh water in the base has not been sufficiently removed, in this case the wheel motor can be rotated further to scatter the fresh water in the base and remove it.

[0223] If the water level detected after the rotation of the wheel motor is lower than the first water level (example of 1405), the control unit can rotate the fan motor for a reference time (1409). The reference time can be set to an appropriate time for removing water scattered in the condenser, and the reference time can be approximately 10 minutes.

[0224] According to this operation, when the water in the base is full due to rain or other reasons, the wheel motor and fan motor can be driven to remove the water and foreign substances in the condenser.

[0225] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing control of a fan motor based on external environment information according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16 is a diagram showing control based on various types of external environment information according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] As described above, the air conditioner may further include a communication unit that performs communication with the server.

[0227] The communication unit can receive various information through communication with the server. For example, the communication unit can receive external environmental information from the server (1501). Furthermore, the communication unit can receive user configuration information (1501). The external environmental information may include at least one of outdoor weather information, outdoor temperature information, outdoor humidity information, or outdoor air quality. The user configuration information may include various information set by the user to rotate the fan motor to perform cleaning.

[0228] The control unit can rotate the fan motor based on external environment information or user setting information received through the communication unit (1503).

[0229] Referring to Fig. 16, the control unit can perform different controls depending on various external environments received by the communication unit.

[0230] For example, if the outdoor weather is clear but the outdoor humidity is over 60%, different controls can be performed depending on the outdoor air cleanliness. If the cleanliness is good, the fan motor can be turned off. If the cleanliness is average, the fan motor can be rotated at the first speed for about 10 minutes. If the cleanliness is poor, the fan motor can be rotated at a second speed that is faster than the first speed for about 15 minutes. Additionally, if the cleanliness is very poor, the fan motor can be rotated at the fastest maximum speed for about 20 minutes.

[0231] The times for rotating the fan motor above and below are only examples, and the fan motor can be rotated for various times.

[0232] If the outdoor air quality is poor, foreign substances can accumulate more easily in the condenser exposed to the outdoor environment, so these foreign substances can be removed by driving the fan motor to rotate the outdoor fan.

[0233] Additionally, when the outdoor weather is clear and the outdoor humidity is less than 60% and the outdoor air quality is poor, the fan motor can be rotated at the first speed for approximately 10 minutes. Additionally, when the outdoor weather is clear and the outdoor humidity is less than 60% and the outdoor air quality is very poor, the fan motor can be rotated at a second speed, which is faster than the first speed, for approximately 15 minutes.

[0234] If it rains, the base may be flooded with rainwater, which may cause the wheel motor to rotate to additionally rotate the scattering wheel.

[0235] For example, when it is raining and the outdoor air quality is good or normal, only the fan motor can rotate at the first speed for about 10 minutes, and when the outdoor air quality is bad or very bad, the fan motor can rotate at the maximum speed and the wheel motor can rotate together.

[0236] Based on these actions, appropriate fresh water removal and foreign substance removal can be performed based on external environmental information.

[0237] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating controlling a fan motor based on user absence according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0238] As described above, the air conditioner may further include a communication unit that performs communication with a server, etc.

[0239] If the control unit determines that the user is absent based on information received through the communication unit (1701), the control unit can rotate the fan motor at maximum speed (1703).

[0240] By detecting the absence of the user through these actions and rotating the fan motor at maximum speed accordingly, the foreign matter reduction performance of the condenser can be improved.

[0241] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided at a lower portion of the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; a water level sensor for detecting a water level of water stored in the base; and a control unit for rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on the termination of operation of the air conditioner and the detection result of the water level sensor.

[0242] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to remove fresh water from a base and prevent contamination that may occur thereby.

[0243] Additionally, it can prevent contamination and malfunction of the condenser by removing foreign substances accumulated in the condenser.

[0244] The above control unit can perform a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is higher than a first water level.

[0245] The control unit may perform a second mode for a reference time in which the wheel motor rotates and the fan motor rotates at a second speed slower than the first speed if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after the first mode is performed.

[0246] The control unit may perform a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is lower than a first water level.

[0247] The above control unit can rotate the wheel motor when the detected water level is higher than a second water level that is higher than the first water level.

[0248] According to the present disclosure, when the water in the base is full due to rain or other reasons, the wheel motor and fan motor can be driven to remove the water and remove foreign substances from the condenser.

[0249] The control unit can rotate the fan motor for a reference time if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

[0250] The above control unit can maintain the rotation of the wheel motor if the detected water level is higher than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

[0251] It further includes a communication unit that performs communication with a server, and the control unit can rotate the fan motor based on external environment information received through the communication unit.

[0252] According to the present disclosure, appropriate fresh water removal and foreign matter removal can be performed based on external environmental information.

[0253] The above external environment information may include at least one of outdoor weather information, outdoor temperature information, outdoor humidity information, or outdoor air cleanliness.

[0254] The device further includes a communication unit that performs communication with a server, and the control unit can rotate the fan motor at maximum speed when it is determined that the user is absent based on information received through the communication unit.

[0255] According to the present disclosure, the foreign matter reduction performance of a condenser can be improved by detecting the absence of a user and rotating the fan motor at maximum speed accordingly.

[0256] A method for controlling an air conditioner according to one embodiment comprises: an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided at a lower portion of the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; and a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; the method may include: receiving a command to terminate operation of the air conditioner; detecting a water level of water stored in the base; and rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on a result of the detection.

[0257] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include performing a first mode of rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is higher than a first water level.

[0258] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include, if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after performing the first mode, performing a second mode that rotates the wheel motor and rotates the fan motor at a second speed that is slower than the first speed for a reference time.

[0259] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include performing a first mode of rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is lower than a first water level.

[0260] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include rotating the wheel motor when the sensed water level is higher than a second water level that is higher than the first water level.

[0261] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include rotating the fan motor for a reference time if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

[0262] Rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include maintaining the rotation of the wheel motor if the sensed water level is higher than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

[0263] Further comprising performing communication with a server; and rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include rotating the fan motor based on external environment information received through the server.

[0264] The above external environment information may include at least one of outdoor weather information, outdoor temperature information, outdoor humidity information, or outdoor air cleanliness.

[0265] Further comprising performing communication with a server; and rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor may include rotating the fan motor at maximum speed when it is determined that the user is absent based on information received through the server.

[0266] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, water stored in a base can be removed to prevent contamination that may otherwise occur.

[0267] Additionally, it can prevent contamination and malfunction of the condenser by removing foreign substances accumulated in the condenser.

[0268] According to another aspect of the disclosed invention, when the water in the base is full due to rain or the like, the wheel motor and the fan motor can be driven to remove the water and remove foreign substances from the condenser.

[0269] According to another aspect of the disclosed invention, appropriate fresh water removal and foreign matter removal can be performed according to external environmental information.

[0270] According to another aspect of the disclosed invention, the foreign matter reduction performance of the condenser can be improved by detecting the absence of a user and rotating the fan motor at maximum speed accordingly.

[0271] 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.

[0272] 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.

[0273] 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. Evaporator; condenser; A base provided at the bottom of the above evaporator; A scattering wheel that scatters the water stored in the above base to the above condenser; A wheel motor for rotating the above scattering wheel; An outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air into the condenser; A fan motor for rotating the above outdoor fan; A water level sensor for detecting the water level of the water contained in the above base; and An air conditioner, comprising: a control unit for rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on the operation termination of the air conditioner and the detection result of the water level sensor; 2. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, An air conditioner that performs a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is higher than a first water level.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit, An air conditioner that, after performing the first mode, if the detected water level is lower than the first water level, performs a second mode that rotates the wheel motor and rotates the fan motor at a second speed slower than the first speed for a reference time.

4. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, An air conditioner that performs a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is lower than a first water level.

5. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, An air conditioner that rotates the wheel motor when the detected water level is higher than the second water level which is higher than the first water level.

6. In paragraph 5, The above control unit, An air conditioner that rotates the fan motor for a reference time if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

7. In paragraph 5, The above control unit, An air conditioner that maintains the rotation of the wheel motor if the detected water level is higher than the first water level after the rotation of the wheel motor.

8. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a communication unit that performs communication with the server; The above control unit, An air conditioner that rotates the fan motor based on external environmental information received through the communication unit.

9. In paragraph 8, The above external environment information is, An air conditioner comprising at least one of outdoor weather information, outdoor temperature information, outdoor humidity information, or outdoor air cleanliness information.

10. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a communication unit that performs communication with the server; The above control unit, An air conditioner that rotates the fan motor at maximum speed when it is determined that the user is absent based on information received through the above communication unit.

11. A method for controlling an air conditioner comprising: an evaporator; a condenser; a base provided at a lower portion of the evaporator; a scattering wheel for scattering water stored in the base to the condenser; a wheel motor for rotating the scattering wheel; an outdoor fan for blowing outdoor air to the condenser; and a fan motor for rotating the outdoor fan; Receiving a command to terminate the operation of the above air conditioner; Detecting the water level of the fresh water in the above base; A method for controlling an air conditioner, comprising: rotating the wheel motor and the fan motor based on the detection results.

12. In paragraph 11, Rotating the above wheel motor and the above fan motor, A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: performing a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is equal to or higher than a first water level.

13. In paragraph 12, Rotating the above wheel motor and the above fan motor, A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: performing a second mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a second speed slower than the first speed for a reference time if the detected water level is lower than the first water level after performing the first mode.

14. In paragraph 11, Rotating the above wheel motor and the above fan motor, A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: performing a first mode for rotating the wheel motor and rotating the fan motor at a first speed for a reference time when the detected water level is lower than a first water level.

15. In paragraph 11, Rotating the above wheel motor and the above fan motor, A control method for an air conditioner, comprising rotating the wheel motor when the detected water level is higher than a second water level which is higher than the first water level.

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