Ventilation apparatus and control method thereof

Abstract

A ventilation apparatus according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may comprise: a housing including a first suction port through which outdoor air is suctioned into a housing, a second suction port through which indoor air is suctioned into the housing, a first discharge port through which the outdoor air is discharged to an indoor space, and a second discharge port through which the indoor air is discharged to an outside space; an outdoor temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the outdoor air; a total heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between the outdoor air and the indoor air; a heater module for heating the outdoor air suctioned into the first suction port; and a processor for controlling the proportion of on-time and off-time of the heater module on the basis of the temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor.

Description

Ventilation device and method for controlling the same

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a ventilation device for providing comfortable air to an indoor space and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A ventilation system is a device that supplies outdoor air to a room or exchanges indoor air with outdoor air to ventilate an indoor space. Conventional ventilation systems could only control indoor temperature and humidity through heat exchange between outdoor and indoor air, generated by passing through a heat exchanger. This resulted in incomplete dehumidification of the outdoor air supplied to the room, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and humidity.

[0003] In winter, when the outdoor temperature is low, the heat exchanger may not be able to operate sufficiently due to problems such as freezing, which may result in loss of moisture in the indoor air.

[0004] Additionally, if heating elements such as heater modules are constantly operated to prevent freezing of the heat exchanger, energy consumption may increase.

[0005] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a ventilation device and a control method thereof that can improve energy efficiency by providing a heater module so that heat exchange operation can always be performed and at the same time adjusting the operating time ratio of the heater module according to the outdoor temperature.

[0006] In addition, one aspect of the disclosed invention provides a ventilation device and a control method thereof that can prevent freezing of a heat exchanger by detecting freezing of the heat exchanger based on the detection result of a temperature sensor and operating a heater module.

[0007] 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.

[0008] A ventilation device according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include a housing including a first intake port through which outdoor air is sucked into the housing, a second intake port through which indoor air is sucked into the housing, a first outlet port through which the outdoor air is discharged into an indoor space, and a second outlet port through which the indoor air is discharged into an outdoor space; an outdoor temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the outdoor air; a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between the outdoor air and the indoor air; a heater module for heating the outdoor air sucked into the first intake port; and a processor for controlling a ratio of an on time and an off time of the heater module based on a temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor.

[0009] A method for controlling a ventilation device according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between outdoor air sucked in through a first intake port of a housing and indoor air sucked in through a second intake port of the housing; and a heater module for heating the outdoor air sucked in through the first intake port; the method comprising: detecting a temperature of the outdoor air; and controlling a ratio of an on time and an off time of the heater module based on the detected temperature of the outdoor air.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a ventilation system including a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a plan view from above of the interior of a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates the circulation of refrigerant in a ventilation system including a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an exploded perspective view of a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view from below of a ventilation device with some components removed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating adjusting the operating time ratio of a heater module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 8 to 10 are flowcharts specifically illustrating a process of adjusting the operating time ratio of a heater module based on the temperature of outdoor air according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating detecting freezing of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0020] The same reference numbers or symbols used in each drawing of this specification represent parts or components that perform substantially the same functions. The shapes and sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0021] Throughout this specification, when a part is said to be “connected” to another part, this includes not only a direct connection but also an indirect connection, and an indirect connection includes a connection via a wireless communication network or a connection via another part.

[0022] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" or "has" and the like are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0023] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related listed items or any item among a plurality of related listed items.

[0024] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0025] The symbols attached to each step are used to identify each step and do not indicate the order of the steps, and the steps may be performed in a different order than stated unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

[0026] 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.

[0027] Below, a ventilation device and a control method thereof according to various embodiments are described in detail.

[0028] Figure 1 illustrates a ventilation system including a ventilation device according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a plan view from above of the interior of the ventilation device according to one embodiment.

[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a ventilation system (1) may include a ventilation device (100) connected to an indoor space and an outdoor space. In addition, the ventilation system (1) may include an outdoor unit (200) that supplies refrigerant to the ventilation device (100). The ventilation device (100) and the outdoor unit (200) may be installed in a mechanical room (e.g., a multipurpose room of a house) that is distinct from the outdoor space and the indoor space. The locations where the ventilation device (100) and the outdoor unit (200) are installed are not limited to those exemplified.

[0030] Since the outdoor unit (200) corresponds to an outdoor unit for an air conditioner commonly known in the art, those skilled in the art can easily change or add various components necessary for implementing the outdoor unit (200). Since the disclosed ventilation system (1) can be operated using a commonly used outdoor unit (200), the ventilation device (100) can be miniaturized without including a separate compressor or other components, thereby helping to reduce production costs.

[0031] The ventilation device (100) may include a housing (101) forming an exterior. For example, the housing (101) may have a hexahedral shape. The housing (101) may include an intake passage (102) for drawing outdoor air (OA) into the indoor space and guiding it into the indoor space, and an exhaust passage (103) for guiding indoor air (RA) into the outdoor space. The intake passage (102) and the exhaust passage (103) may be partitioned from each other by a plurality of partition walls (108).

[0032] The housing (101) may include a first intake port (101a) connected to an outdoor space and provided for sucking outdoor air (OA) into the housing (101), a first discharge port (101b) connected to an indoor space and provided for sucking outdoor air (OA) into the housing (101) into the indoor space, and a first intake chamber (104) and a second intake chamber (105) forming an intake passage (102). The intake passage (102) may connect the first intake port (101a) and the first discharge port (101b).

[0033] The housing (101) may include a second intake port (101c) connected to an indoor space and provided for sucking indoor air (RA) into the housing (101), a second exhaust port (101d) connected to an outdoor space and provided for exhausting indoor air (RA) sucked into the housing (101) into the outdoor space, and a first exhaust chamber (106) and a second exhaust chamber (107) forming an exhaust path (103). The exhaust path (103) may connect the second intake port (101c) and the second exhaust port (101d).

[0034] The ventilation device (100) may include a first blower (109a) arranged on the side of the first outlet (101b) inside the second intake chamber (105) and a second blower (109b) arranged on the side of the second outlet (101d) inside the second exhaust chamber (107). The first blower (109a) may generate wind power necessary to discharge air to the first outlet (101b). The second blower (109b) may generate wind power necessary to discharge air to the second outlet (101d). That is, when the first blower (109a) operates, outdoor air is sucked into the housing (101) through the first intake port (101a), and air inside the housing (101) is discharged to the indoor space through the first outlet (101b). When the second blower (109b) operates, indoor air is sucked into the housing (101) through the second intake port (101c), and the air inside the housing (101) is discharged to the outdoor space through the second exhaust port (101d).

[0035] The ventilation device (100) may include a heat exchanger (110) provided for heat exchange between outdoor air (OA) and indoor air (RA). Air flowing through the exhaust passage (103) and air flowing through the intake passage (102) may exchange heat with each other in the heat exchanger (110). When the ventilation system (1) operates, air discharged into the indoor space through the first outlet (101b) may be referred to as 'supply air (SA)', and air discharged into the outdoor space through the second outlet (101d) may be referred to as 'exhaust air (EA)'.

[0036] The heat exchanger (110) may be made of a paper material coated with lithium chloride and may also be referred to as a 'heat exchange element'. The heat exchanger (110) may be implemented as a plate-type heat exchanger or a rotary-type heat exchanger. The heat exchanger (110) may be placed at a point where the intake passage (102) and the exhaust passage (103) intersect. That is, the heat exchanger (110) is placed on the intake passage (102) and at the same time on the exhaust passage (103).

[0037] The heat exchanger (110) can connect the first intake chamber (104) and the second intake chamber (105). The heat exchanger (110) can connect the first exhaust chamber (106) and the second exhaust chamber (107). When the ventilation system (1) is in ventilation operation, the outdoor air (OA) flowing through the intake passage (102) and the indoor air (RA) flowing through the exhaust passage (103) are heat-exchanged in the heat exchanger (110) without contact.

[0038] The ventilation device (100) may include a filter that captures foreign substances contained in outdoor air. The filter may be positioned adjacent to the heat exchanger (110). The filter may be positioned between the first intake port (101a) and the heat exchanger (110). Foreign substances flowing in the outdoor air flowing in through the first intake port (101a) may be filtered by the filter, thereby preventing the heat exchanger (110) from being contaminated.

[0039] For example, the filter may be a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. The HEPA filter may be composed of glass fiber. The filter may also be provided as a photocatalytic filter that induces a chemical reaction in the air using a photocatalyst. That is, the filter includes a photocatalyst and can capture various pathogens and bacteria present in the air by inducing a chemical reaction by the light energy of the photocatalyst. By promoting the chemical reaction, odor particles in the air can be decomposed, removed, or captured. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the filter may be provided as various types of filters capable of capturing foreign substances.

[0040] Conventional ventilation devices only include a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between outdoor air (OA) and indoor air (RA). Conventional ventilation devices are not connected to an outdoor unit. In other words, they do not include a separate heat exchanger that receives refrigerant from the outdoor unit. Conventional ventilation devices can only supply outdoor air to indoor spaces and exhaust indoor air to outdoor spaces. Conventional ventilation devices cannot cool or heat outdoor air, nor can they perform a dehumidifying function to remove moisture contained in outdoor air.

[0041] However, the disclosed ventilation device (100) includes a heat exchanger (180) that is provided to control the humidity and temperature of air flowing through the intake passage (102). The heat exchanger (180) may include a first heat exchanger (181) and a second heat exchanger (182). The heat exchangers (181, 182) may also be referred to as a 'dehumidification module'. The heat exchangers (181, 182) can remove moisture contained in air passing through the heat exchangers (181, 182). Since moisture contained in the air is removed while passing through the heat exchanger (180), dry air can be supplied to the indoor space. In addition, the air can be cooled or heated while passing through the heat exchanger (180).

[0042] Such a heat exchanger (180) can operate as a heater module (120).

[0043] That is, the heater module (120) can heat the outdoor air sucked into the first intake port (101a).

[0044] The heater module (120) designed to heat the outdoor air may be provided as the aforementioned heat exchanger (180) or may be provided as a separate heating device.

[0045] The ventilation device (100) may include a sterilizing device (113) for sterilizing indoor air (RA) sucked in through the second intake port (101c). The sterilizing device (113) may be placed within the first exhaust room (106). For example, the sterilizing device (113) may include at least one of a heater, an infrared lamp, or a UV-LED.

[0046] The ventilation device (100) may include various temperature sensors. For example, the ventilation device (100) may include an outdoor temperature sensor (141) that detects the temperature of outdoor air and an indoor temperature sensor (142) that detects the temperature of indoor air. In addition, the ventilation device (100) may further include a heat exchange temperature sensor (143) that detects the temperature of air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger (110).

[0047] The outdoor temperature sensor (141) may be provided on the intake passage (102). For example, the outdoor temperature sensor (141) may be located in the first intake chamber (104) between the first intake port (101a) and the heater module (120). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the outdoor temperature sensor (141) may also be placed on the exterior outdoor side of the housing (101).

[0048] The outdoor humidity sensor (151) can measure the humidity of outdoor air sucked in through the first intake port (101a). The outdoor humidity sensor (151) can be provided on the intake passage (102). For example, the outdoor humidity sensor (151) can be located in the first intake chamber (104) between the first intake port (101a) and the heater module (120). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the outdoor humidity sensor (151) can also be placed on the exterior outdoor side of the housing (101).

[0049] The indoor temperature sensor (142) may be provided on the exhaust passage (103). The indoor temperature sensor (142) may be placed inside the first exhaust chamber (106). The indoor temperature sensor (142) may be placed on the upstream side of the exhaust passage (103) from the heat exchanger (110).

[0050] The indoor temperature sensor (142) can measure the temperature of indoor air sucked in through the second intake port (101c). The indoor humidity sensor (152) can measure the humidity of indoor air sucked in through the second intake port (101c). This is not limited to this, and the indoor temperature sensor (142) and the indoor humidity sensor (152) may also be placed on the indoor side outside the housing (101).

[0051] The heat exchange temperature sensor (143) may be provided on the intake passage (102). For example, the heat exchange temperature sensor (143) may be placed inside the second intake chamber (105). The heat exchange temperature sensor (143) may be placed on the downstream side of the intake passage (102) relative to the heat exchanger (110).

[0052] In addition, the ventilation device (100) may include various dampers for opening or closing the passage formed inside the ventilation device (100). For example, the ventilation device (100) may include a first damper (330) provided on a bypass passage (331) that bypasses the heat exchanger (110), a second damper (340) provided on a connecting passage connecting the first intake chamber (104) and the first exhaust chamber (106), and a third damper (350) provided on the first intake port (101a). The opening degrees of each of the first damper (330), the second damper (340), and the third damper (350) may be controlled by the processor (191) of the ventilation device (1).

[0053] The first damper (330) may be provided at the upper portion of the heat exchanger (110). The first damper (330) may open or close a bypass passage (331) that bypasses the heat exchanger (110) between the first inlet (101a) and the first outlet (101b). The processor (191) of the ventilation device (100) may control the opening degree of the first damper (330). In another embodiment, the first damper (330) may be provided at the lower portion of the heat exchanger (110).

[0054] A first molding (328) and a second molding (329) may be provided between one side of the heat exchanger (110) and the second internal housing (320). By virtue of the first molding (328) and the second molding (329), indoor air flowing in from the second intake port (101c) cannot flow toward the second outlet port (101d) through the upper space of the heat exchanger (110). Outdoor air flowing in from the first intake port (101a) can flow toward the first outlet port (101b) through the bypass path (331) formed in the upper space of the heat exchanger (110).

[0055] The first damper (330) may be provided between the first molding (328) and the second molding (329), and may be supported by the first molding (328) and the second molding (329). The first damper (330) is arranged perpendicular to the first molding (328) and the second molding (329), and is provided to be rotatable. The first damper (330) may be provided in a rectangular shape. The first damper (330) may rotate toward the first intake chamber (104) or toward the second intake chamber (105).

[0056] A second damper (340) may be provided between one side of the heat exchanger (110) and the inner wall of the housing (101). The second damper (340) may open or close a connecting passage connecting the first intake chamber (104) and the first exhaust chamber (106). When the second damper (340) is opened, indoor air introduced into the first exhaust chamber (106) through the second intake port (101c) may move to the first intake chamber (104).

[0057] A third damper (350) is provided in the first suction port (101a) and can open or close the first suction port (101a). When the third damper (350) is opened, the inflow of outdoor air into the housing (101) is permitted. When the third damper (350) is closed, the inflow of outdoor air into the housing (101) is blocked.

[0058] Figure 3 illustrates the circulation of refrigerant in a ventilation system according to one embodiment.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 3, the outdoor unit (200) may include a compressor (211), an accumulator (212), a four-way valve (213), and an outdoor heat exchanger (220). The compressor (211) and the outdoor heat exchanger (220) may be connected via the four-way valve (213). The four-way valve (213) may change the direction in which the refrigerant flows.

[0060] The outdoor unit (200) may include an outdoor fan (220a) provided to control the temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger (220). The outdoor fan (220a) may discharge air toward the outdoor heat exchanger (220) and cool the outdoor heat exchanger (220). When the outdoor heat exchanger (220) is cooled by the outdoor fan (220a), the temperature of the refrigerant passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (220) may be reduced compared to when the outdoor fan (220a) is not present.

[0061] The first heat exchanger (181) may be connected to the outdoor unit (200) by the first refrigerant pipe (121). The first heat exchanger (181) may be connected to the outdoor heat exchanger (220) of the outdoor unit (200) by the first refrigerant pipe (121). The second heat exchanger (182) may be connected to the first heat exchanger (181) by the second refrigerant pipe (131). The second heat exchanger (182) may be connected to the outdoor unit (200) by the third refrigerant pipe (132). The second heat exchanger (182) may be connected to the accumulator (212) of the outdoor unit (200) by the third refrigerant pipe (132).

[0062] The ventilation device (100) may include a first expansion device (160) provided in the first refrigerant pipe (121). The first expansion device (160) may selectively expand the refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger (181) through the first refrigerant pipe (121). The refrigerant passing through the first expansion device (160) may be in a reduced pressure state compared to before passing through the first expansion device (160).

[0063] The ventilation device (100) may include a second expansion device (170) provided in the second refrigerant pipe (131). The second expansion device (170) may selectively expand the refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (181) and supplied to the second heat exchanger (182) through the second refrigerant pipe (131). The refrigerant passing through the second expansion device (170) may be in a reduced pressure state compared to before passing through the second expansion device (170). The first expansion device (160) and the second expansion device (170) may be disposed inside the housing (101). The second refrigerant pipe (131) may be disposed inside the housing (101).

[0064] The first expansion device (160) can expand high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant by a throttling action, and can control the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger (181). The first expansion device (160) can reduce the pressure of the refrigerant by utilizing the throttling action of the refrigerant, in which the pressure of the refrigerant decreases without heat exchange with the outside when the refrigerant passes through a narrow passage. For example, the first expansion device (160) may include an electronic expansion valve (EEV, 161). The electronic expansion valve (161) can control the degree of expansion of the refrigerant and the flow rate of the refrigerant by adjusting the degree of opening. When the electronic expansion valve (161) is fully opened, the refrigerant can pass through the electronic expansion valve (161) without resistance, and the refrigerant may not be expanded.

[0065] The second expansion device (170) can expand high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant through a throttling action. For example, the second expansion device (170) can include a solenoid valve (171) and a capillary tube (172) connected in parallel with the solenoid valve (171). When the solenoid valve (171) is closed, the refrigerant can move to the capillary tube (172) and be expanded by throttling, and when the solenoid valve (171) is opened, the refrigerant can flow without resistance through the solenoid valve (171) and thus not be expanded. In order to efficiently control the flow and expansion of the refrigerant, the solenoid valve (171) can be replaced with an electronic expansion valve (EEV).

[0066] However, this is not limited thereto. For example, both the first expansion device (160) and the second expansion device (170) may include an electronic expansion valve. The first expansion device (160) may include a solenoid valve and a capillary tube connected in parallel with the solenoid valve, and the second expansion device (170) may include an electronic expansion valve. Both the first expansion device (160) and the second expansion device (170) may include a solenoid valve and a capillary tube connected in parallel with the solenoid valve. The solenoid valve connected in parallel with the capillary tube may be replaced with an electronic expansion valve.

[0067] When the inflow of outdoor air is permitted, the operation mode of the ventilation system (1) can be determined as a cooling and dehumidification mode (first mode) for drying and cooling the outdoor air, a constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode) for drying and heating the outdoor air, a moisture recovery mode (third mode) for recovering moisture contained in indoor air, or a ventilation mode (fourth mode) for stopping the operation of the compressor. The ventilation device (100) can operate in one of the cooling and dehumidification mode (first mode), the constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode), the moisture recovery mode (third mode), and the ventilation mode (fourth mode) based on the outdoor temperature, the indoor temperature, the outdoor humidity, and the indoor humidity.

[0068] When the inflow of outdoor air is permitted, the processor (191) of the ventilation device (100) can control the components of the ventilation device (100) so that the ventilation system (1) operates in a cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode), a constant temperature dehumidifying mode (second mode), a moisture recovery mode (third mode), or a ventilation mode (fourth mode). The ventilation device (100) can operate by switching between the cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode), the constant temperature dehumidifying mode (second mode), the moisture recovery mode (third mode), and the ventilation mode (fourth mode) according to changes in the outdoor temperature, indoor temperature, outdoor humidity, and indoor humidity.

[0069] The cooling and dehumidification mode (first mode) is described. In the cooling and dehumidification mode (first mode), the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (211) is first supplied to the outdoor heat exchanger (220) through the four-way valve (213), and then supplied to the first heat exchanger (181) through the first expansion device (160).

[0070] In the cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode), the first expansion device (160) can expand the refrigerant. The second expansion device (170) can expand or not expand the refrigerant. Preferably, the second expansion device (170) can not expand the refrigerant in the cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode) so that the refrigerant can flow smoothly. To this end, the solenoid valve (171) of the second expansion device (170) can be opened in the cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode).

[0071] The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (211) can be condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (220) of the outdoor unit (200) through the four-way valve (213) and then introduced into the first expansion device (160). The first expansion device (160) can expand the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant to a low-temperature, low-pressure state so that the refrigerant can be evaporated in the first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182).

[0072] The refrigerant expanded in the first expansion device (160) flows into the first heat exchanger (181) and can absorb the heat of the air passing through the first heat exchanger (181) and evaporate. The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (181) and flowing into the second heat exchanger (182) can again absorb the heat of the surrounding air in the second heat exchanger (182). The first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182) can condense and remove moisture contained in the air passing through the first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182), and cool the air passing through the first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182). That is, the ventilation device (100) operated in the cooling and dehumidification mode (first mode) can simultaneously lower the temperature and humidity of the outdoor air sucked into the room.

[0073] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (182) can enter the accumulator (212) through the four-way valve (213). The refrigerant can flow from the accumulator (212) into the compressor (211).

[0074] Air supplied to an indoor space by a ventilation device (100) operating in a cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode) can have a temperature and humidity that are comfortable for the user. A ventilation device (100) operating in a cooling and dehumidifying mode (first mode) can discharge cooled and dried air into an indoor space.

[0075] The constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode) is described. In the constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode), the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (211) is first supplied to the outdoor heat exchanger (220) through the four-way valve (213), and then supplied to the first heat exchanger (181) through the first expansion device (160).

[0076] In the constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode), the first expansion device (160) may not expand the refrigerant. The second expansion device (170) may expand the refrigerant. The high temperature and high pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (211) may be condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (220) of the outdoor unit (200) and then introduced into the first heat exchanger (181). The first heat exchanger (181) supplied with the refrigerant may condense the refrigerant. The high temperature and high pressure refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (181) may be expanded by the second expansion device (170) to become a low temperature and low pressure refrigerant. The expanded refrigerant may be introduced into the second heat exchanger (182) and may absorb heat from air passing through the second heat exchanger (182) to evaporate.

[0077] The refrigerant discharged from the second heat exchanger (182) can enter the accumulator (212) through the four-way valve (213). The refrigerant can flow from the accumulator (212) into the compressor (211).

[0078] In the constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode), outdoor air introduced through the first intake port (101a) can sequentially pass through the second heat exchanger (182) and the first heat exchanger (181). The second heat exchanger (182) can condense and remove moisture contained in the air passing through the second heat exchanger (182), and the air passing through the second heat exchanger (182) can be cooled and dried. The first heat exchanger (181) can heat the air from which moisture has been removed by the second heat exchanger (182) by condensing the refrigerant. The air that has been cooled while passing through the second heat exchanger (182) can be heated again by the first heat exchanger (181), thereby increasing its temperature compared to when it passed through the second heat exchanger (182).

[0079] The relative humidity of the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (182) and the first heat exchanger (181) may be lower than the relative humidity of the air that has passed through only the second heat exchanger (182). Therefore, air having a temperature and humidity that is comfortable for the user can be supplied to the indoor space. The ventilation device (100) operating in the constant temperature dehumidification mode (second mode) can discharge dry air having a temperature equal to or similar to the indoor temperature into the indoor space.

[0080] The moisture recovery mode (mode 3) is described. The direction in which the refrigerant flows in the moisture recovery mode (mode 3) may be opposite to the direction in which the refrigerant flows in the cooling dehumidification mode (mode 1) and the constant temperature dehumidification mode (mode 2).

[0081] In the moisture recovery mode (third mode), the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (211) can be supplied to the second heat exchanger (182) through the four-way valve (213). The refrigerant can sequentially pass through the second heat exchanger (182), the first heat exchanger (181), and the outdoor heat exchanger (220). In the moisture recovery mode (third mode), the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant compressed by the compressor (211) can be supplied to the second heat exchanger (182). The refrigerant releases heat while passing through the second heat exchanger (182), and the surrounding air can absorb the heat and be heated.

[0082] In the moisture recovery mode (third mode), the second expansion device (170) may not expand the refrigerant. When the refrigerant is expanded by the second expansion device (170), the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant may decrease. However, when the second expansion device (170) does not expand the refrigerant, the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger (181) may have a relatively high pressure and high temperature. Therefore, the refrigerant may release heat again while passing through the first heat exchanger (181) and heat the surrounding air. In the moisture recovery mode (third mode), the first expansion device (160) may be controlled to expand the refrigerant or not to expand it.

[0083] Since the outdoor air flowing in through the first intake port (101a) passes through the second heat exchanger (182) and the first heat exchanger (181) in sequence, in the moisture recovery mode (third mode), the outdoor air can be first heated in the second heat exchanger (182) and then heated again in the first heat exchanger (181). The ventilation device (100) operating in the moisture recovery mode (third mode) can discharge the heated air into the indoor space.

[0084] The refrigerant discharged from the first heat exchanger (181) can be expanded by the first expansion device (160) and returned to the compressor (211) through the outdoor heat exchanger (220), the four-way valve (213) and the accumulator (212).

[0085] If freezing of the heat exchanger (110) is expected, the ventilation device (100) may operate in moisture recovery mode (third mode). For example, in winter when a low-temperature, dry outdoor environment is created, if freezing of the heat exchanger (110) occurs due to the low outdoor temperature, ventilation of indoor air through the heat exchanger (110) becomes difficult, and recovery of moisture contained in the indoor air also becomes difficult. If the ventilation device (100) operates in moisture recovery mode (third mode), freezing of the heat exchanger (110) is prevented, thereby enabling ventilation using the heat exchanger (110) and recovery of moisture contained in the indoor air.

[0086] In the ventilation mode (fourth mode), the refrigerant is not supplied to the first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182), and only heat exchange between the outdoor air and the indoor air can be performed by the total heat exchanger (110). The processor (191) can stop the compressor (211) of the outdoor unit (200) to block the inflow of the refrigerant into the ventilation device (100), control the expansion device to block the inflow of the refrigerant into the first heat exchanger (181) and the second heat exchanger (182), or turn off the outdoor unit (200) to operate the ventilation device (100) in the ventilation mode (fourth mode). Even in the ventilation mode, moisture contained in the indoor air can be recovered.

[0087] When the inflow of outdoor air is blocked, the operating mode of the ventilation system (1) can be determined as a cooling and dehumidification mode for drying and cooling indoor air, a constant temperature dehumidification mode for drying and heating indoor air, a heating mode for heating indoor air, or a blowing mode for circulating indoor air. The ventilation device (100) can operate in one of the cooling and dehumidification mode, the constant temperature dehumidification mode, the heating mode, and the blowing mode based on indoor humidity and indoor temperature. The third damper (350) is closed to block the inflow of outdoor air. In addition, the first blower (109a) operates, and the second blower (109b) is stopped.

[0088] When the inflow of outdoor air is blocked, the refrigerant flow in the cooling / dehumidification mode and the constant temperature / dehumidification mode is the same as described above. In the heating mode, the refrigerant flow is the same as in the moisture recovery mode described above. In the blowing mode, the compressor stops operating.

[0089] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a ventilation device according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a ventilation device according to one embodiment, viewed from below, with some components removed.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 4, the ventilation device (100) may include a drain tray (125) that collects condensate generated in the heat exchanger (181, 182). The drain tray (125) may be placed on the lower side of the heat exchanger (181, 182) in the vertical direction (Z).

[0091] The housing (101) may include a first inner housing (310) and a second inner housing (320). The second inner housing (320) may be coupled to the first inner housing (310) in a vertical direction (Z). The inner housings (310, 320) may be formed of an insulating material. For example, the inner housings (310, 320) may be formed of an EPS insulating material such as Styrofoam. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the inner housings (310, 320) may be formed of various insulating materials so that the temperature of the air flowing through the intake passage (102) and the exhaust passage (103) can be maintained at a constant temperature.

[0092] The ventilation device (100) may include covers (410, 420) that form the outer appearance of the housing (101) and are provided to cover the inner housing (310, 320). The covers (410, 420) may include a first cover (410) that is arranged at the bottom in the vertical direction (Z), and a second cover (420) that is arranged at the top of the first cover (410) and is coupled with the first cover (410). The first cover (410) may form the lower outer appearance of the ventilation device (100), and the second cover (420) may form the upper outer appearance of the ventilation device (100). The covers (410, 420) may cover the inner housing (310, 320) to protect the inner housing (310, 320) from the outside. For example, the covers (410, 420) may be made of an injection-molded material such as plastic.

[0093] The first inner housing (310) can be inserted into the first cover (410), and the second inner housing (320) can be inserted into the second cover (420). From the bottom to the top of the ventilation device (100), the first cover (410), the first inner housing (310), the second inner housing (320), and the second cover (420) can be sequentially arranged.

[0094] Components of the ventilation device (100), such as a heat exchanger (110), a blower (109a, 109b), a heat exchanger (181, 182), and a drain tray (125), can be arranged to be supported by the first inner housing (310) and the second inner housing (320).

[0095] A first hole (315) may be provided in the first inner housing (310). The heat exchanger (110) and the drain tray (125) may be provided to be detachable from the ventilation device (100) through the first hole (315) of the first inner housing (310). The second inner housing (320) may include a second hole (not shown) provided to correspond to the first hole (315) of the first inner housing (310).

[0096] The first cover (410) may include a body portion (411) having a square frame shape, a surface portion (412) that is detachably connected to the body portion (411) and formed in a plate shape, and a lower cover portion (413) that is formed to cover the surface portion (412) from the bottom. The surface portion (412) of the first cover (410) may include a plate body (412a), a first surface (412b) of the plate body (412a), and a second surface disposed on the opposite side of the first surface (412b).

[0097] The surface (412) of the first cover (410) may include a third hole (412d) that is provided to correspond to the first hole (315) of the first inner housing (310). The third hole (412d) may be formed on the plate body (412a). Since the third hole (412d) is provided to correspond to the first hole (315), it may be provided asymmetrically on the plate body (412a) with one of the major axis (L) and minor axis (S) of the housing (101) as the center.

[0098] The surface (412) of the first cover (410) can be joined to the body (411) so that the first surface (412b) faces downward. The first hole (315) and the third hole (412d) can be provided in the same shape and can be overlapped in the vertical direction (Z).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 5, when the lower cover part (413) is separated from the first cover (410), the heat exchanger (110) and the drain tray (125) can be exposed to the lower side of the ventilation device (100). Therefore, the user can easily separate the heat exchanger (110) and the drain tray (125) from the ventilation device (100) as needed.

[0100] Above, the overall structure and operation of the ventilation system (1) including the ventilation device (100) have been described.

[0101] Below, in this ventilation device (100), the operation of controlling the heater module (120) to prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110) and to enable the heat exchanger (110) to operate at all times is described.

[0102] In addition, the aforementioned heat exchangers (181, 182) are described as being included in the heater module (120) in the present invention to heat outdoor air. As described above, the heater module (120) may include not only the heat exchangers (181, 182) but also a separate heating device. The implementation form of the heater module (120) is not limited thereto, and may be implemented in various forms capable of heating outdoor air that is sucked in through the first intake port (101a) and passes through the heat exchanger (110).

[0103] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a ventilation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing adjusting an operating time ratio of a heater module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] As described above, the ventilation device (100) may include an outdoor temperature sensor (141) for detecting outdoor temperature, an indoor temperature sensor (142) for detecting indoor temperature, a heat exchange temperature sensor (143) for detecting the temperature of air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger, a heater module (120), and a heat exchanger (110). The ventilation device (100) may further include a control unit (190) for controlling the heater module (120) and the heat exchanger (110).

[0105] The control unit (190) may include a memory (192) that stores a control program and control data for controlling the heater module (120) and the heat exchanger (110), and at least one processor (191) that generates a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory. The memory (192) and the processor (191) may be provided integrally or separately.

[0106] The memory (192) can store the temperature detected by the temperature sensor, etc., and can store a program and data for controlling the heater module (120) and the heat exchanger (110).

[0107] The memory (192) 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 (192) 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.

[0108] The processor (191) may include various logic circuits and operation circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory, and generate a control signal according to the processing result.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 7, the ventilation device (100) may operate in a heat exchanger (110) to recover moisture in the air leaving the room, thereby operating in a heat exchanger mode (701). This may be a mode corresponding to the moisture recovery mode (third mode) described above.

[0110] The temperature of the outdoor air is detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (141) (703), and the processor (191) can adjust the ratio of the on time and off time of the heater module (120) based on the temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (141) (705).

[0111] That is, the processor (191) can increase the ratio of time that the heater module (120) is turned on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

[0112] In the case of a ventilation device (100) that was not previously equipped with a heater module (120), only exhaust operation was performed for a certain period of time to prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110) when the outdoor temperature was low, and as a result, moisture in the indoor air was lost.

[0113] In the present invention, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) can be prevented by turning on the heater module (120) while performing the heat exchanger ventilation mode at the time when only the conventional exhaust operation is performed.

[0114] For example, in the past, when the outdoor temperature was below 0℃ and above -5℃, the heat exchanger (110) was operated for 80 minutes and then the exhaust mode was performed for 10 minutes to prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110).

[0115] In this case, the present invention can prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110) by turning on the heater module (120) while operating the heat exchanger (110) instead of the exhaust mode for 10 minutes while performing the exhaust mode.

[0116] That is, compared to the case where moisture in the indoor air is lost while exhaust operation is performed, moisture loss in the indoor air can be prevented by keeping the heat exchanger (110) in the on state. That is, the operation rate of the heat exchanger (110) can be operated at 100%.

[0117] The processor (191) can increase the ratio of time that the heater module (120) is turned on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

[0118] In the above, the case where the outdoor temperature is less than 0℃ and more than -5℃ was taken as an example, but in the case where the outdoor temperature is less than -5℃ and more than -10℃, the ratio of the time that the heater module (120) is turned on can be increased to prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110).

[0119] For example, only the heat exchanger (110) can be operated for 50 minutes, and the heater module (120) can be turned on together with the heat exchanger (110) for the next 10 minutes.

[0120] Compared to the case where the outdoor temperature is less than 0℃ and more than -5℃ as mentioned above, the time for which the heater module (120) is turned on is 10 minutes, but the time for which the heater module (120) is turned off is different at 80 minutes and 50 minutes, respectively, so the ratio of the time for which the heater module (120) is turned on can increase.

[0121] Below, the operation of adjusting the on / off time ratio of the heater module (120) for each outdoor temperature range is described.

[0122] FIGS. 8 to 10 are flowcharts specifically illustrating a process of adjusting the operating time ratio of a heater module based on the temperature of outdoor air according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] The ventilation device (100) can operate in a heat exchanger (110) mode to recover moisture in the air leaving the room (801).

[0124] The temperature of the outdoor air is detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (141) (803), and the processor (191) can adjust the ratio of the on time and off time of the heater module (120) based on the temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (141).

[0125] The processor (191) can turn on the heater module (120) at a first time ratio (807) when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the first temperature and higher than the second temperature (example of 805).

[0126] Here, the first temperature may be, for example, 0°C, and the second temperature may be, for example, -5°C.

[0127] Additionally, the heater module (120) being turned on at the first time ratio may be, for example, a time ratio in which the heater module (120) is turned off for 80 minutes and then turned on for 10 minutes.

[0128] That is, when the outdoor temperature is less than 0°C and more than -5°C, the processor (191) can prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110) by turning off the heater module (120) for 80 minutes and then turning it on for 10 minutes.

[0129] In the past, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) was prevented by keeping the heater module turned on. According to the disclosed embodiment of the invention, by turning on the heater module (120) for about 10 minutes every about 90 minutes compared to the case where the heater module (120) is continuously turned on, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) can be prevented while reducing energy consumption by about 89%.

[0130] Here, the heat exchanger (110) is kept on so that it is always in operation without being turned off, thereby preventing moisture loss from indoor air.

[0131] The processor (191) can turn on the heater module (120) at a second time ratio (903) when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the second temperature and higher than the third temperature (example of 901).

[0132] Here, the third temperature can be, for example, -10℃.

[0133] Additionally, the heater module (120) turning on at a second time ratio may be, for example, a time ratio in which the heater module (120) is off for 50 minutes and then turned on for 10 minutes.

[0134] That is, when the outdoor temperature is less than -5°C and more than -10°C, the processor (191) can prevent freezing of the heat exchanger (110) by turning off the heater module (120) for 50 minutes and then turning it on for 10 minutes.

[0135] That is, the ratio of the time that the heater module (120) is turned on can be increased compared to when the previous outdoor temperature is less than 0℃ and more than -5℃. Since the outdoor air temperature is relatively low and the heat exchanger (110) can freeze more easily, the ratio of the on time of the heater module (120) can be increased to prevent the heat exchanger (110) from freezing.

[0136] As described above, in the past, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) was prevented by keeping the heater module turned on. According to the disclosed embodiment of the invention, by turning on the heater module (120) for about 10 minutes every about 60 minutes compared to the case where the heater module (120) is continuously turned on, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) can be prevented while reducing energy consumption by about 83%.

[0137] Here, the heat exchanger (110) is kept on so that it is always in operation without being turned off, thereby preventing moisture loss from indoor air.

[0138] The processor (191) can continuously keep the heater module (120) turned on (1003) when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the third temperature (1001). That is, the heater module (120) can be operated at a rate of 100% that it is turned on.

[0139] When the outdoor temperature is very low, for example, below -10°C, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) is very easy, so freezing of the heat exchanger (110) can be prevented by keeping the heater module (120) always on.

[0140] By controlling the on / off time ratio of the heater module (120) according to the outdoor temperature in this way, freezing of the heat exchanger (110) can be effectively prevented, and energy consumption can be reduced compared to the case where the heater module (120) is always on.

[0141] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating detecting freezing of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] The ventilation device (100) can operate in a heat exchanger (110) mode to recover moisture in the air leaving the room by operating the heat exchanger (110) to recover moisture (1101).

[0143] The processor (191) can determine whether the heat exchanger (110) is frozen based on the outdoor temperature detected by the outdoor temperature sensor (141), the indoor temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor (142), and the temperature (1103) of air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger (110) detected by the heat exchange temperature sensor (143).

[0144] Assuming that the detected outdoor air temperature is T1, the detected indoor air temperature is T2, and the temperature of air flowing into the indoor space through the detected heat exchanger (110) is T3, if the following mathematical expression 1 is satisfied, the processor (191) can determine that the heat exchanger (110) is frozen.

[0145] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0146] (T3-T1) / (T2-T1) < 0.7

[0147] This can be expressed as the efficiency of temperature exchange as the ratio of the value obtained by subtracting the outdoor temperature from the heat exchanged temperature to the value obtained by subtracting the outdoor temperature from the indoor temperature.

[0148] If this exchange efficiency is less than 0.7 (example of 1105), the processor (191) may determine that the heat exchanger (110) is frozen due to low heat exchange efficiency (1107).

[0149] If the exchange efficiency is 0.7 or higher (No of 1105), the processor (191) can determine that the heat exchanger (110) is not frozen.

[0150] The processor (191) can turn on the heater module (120) when it is determined that the heat exchanger (110) is frozen (1109).

[0151] A ventilation device according to one embodiment may include a housing including a first intake port through which outdoor air is sucked into the housing, a second intake port through which indoor air is sucked into the housing, a first outlet port through which the outdoor air is discharged into an indoor space, and a second outlet port through which the indoor air is discharged into an outdoor space; an outdoor temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the outdoor air; a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between the outdoor air and the indoor air; a heater module for heating the outdoor air sucked into the first intake port; and a processor for controlling a ratio of an on time and an off time of the heater module based on a temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor.

[0152] According to the present disclosure, a heater module is provided so that heat exchange operation can always be performed, and at the same time, the operating time ratio of the heater module can be adjusted according to the outdoor temperature, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0153] The processor may increase the ratio of time that the heater module is turned on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

[0154] The processor may turn on the heater module at a first time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than a first temperature and higher than a second temperature.

[0155] The processor may turn on the heater module at a second time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the second temperature and higher than the third temperature.

[0156] The processor may continuously turn on the heater module when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the third temperature.

[0157] The system further includes an indoor temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the indoor air; and a heat exchange temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger; wherein the processor can determine whether the heat exchanger is frozen based on the detected temperature of the outdoor air, the temperature of the indoor air, and the temperature of the air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger.

[0158] According to the present disclosure, freezing of a heat exchanger can be prevented by detecting freezing of the heat exchanger based on the detection result of a temperature sensor and operating a heater module.

[0159] The processor may turn on the heater module when it is determined that the heat exchanger is frozen.

[0160] The above processor can keep the heat exchanger in an on state.

[0161] A method for controlling a ventilation device according to one embodiment includes a method for controlling a ventilation device including a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between outdoor air sucked in through a first intake port of a housing and indoor air sucked in through a second intake port of the housing, and a heater module that heats the outdoor air sucked in through the first intake port, the method comprising: detecting a temperature of the outdoor air; and adjusting a ratio of an on time and an off time of the heater module based on the detected temperature of the outdoor air.

[0162] Controlling the ratio of the on time and off time of the heater module may include increasing the ratio of the time that the heater module is on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

[0163] Controlling the ratio of the on time and off time of the heater module may include turning the heater module on at a first time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than a first temperature and higher than a second temperature.

[0164] Controlling the ratio of the on time and off time of the heater module may include turning the heater module on at a second time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the second temperature and higher than the third temperature.

[0165] Controlling the ratio of on time and off time of the heater module may include continuously turning on the heater module when the temperature of the outdoor air is below the third temperature.

[0166] It may further include detecting the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger; and determining whether the heat exchanger is frozen based on the detected temperature of the outdoor air, the temperature of the indoor air, and the temperature of the air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger.

[0167] If it is determined that the above heat exchanger is frozen, turning on the heater module may be further included.

[0168] According to the disclosed invention, a heater module is provided so that heat exchange operation can always be performed, and at the same time, the operating time ratio of the heater module can be adjusted according to the outdoor temperature, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0169] In addition, freezing of the heat exchanger can be prevented by detecting freezing of the heat exchanger based on the detection result of the temperature sensor and operating the heater module.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A housing including a first intake port through which outdoor air is sucked into the housing, a second intake port through which indoor air is sucked into the housing, a first outlet port through which the outdoor air is discharged into an indoor space, and a second outlet port through which the indoor air is discharged into an external space; An outdoor temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the outdoor air; A heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the outdoor air and the indoor air; A heater module for heating the outdoor air sucked into the first intake port; and A ventilation device including a processor that controls the ratio of on time and off time of the heater module based on the temperature of the outdoor air detected by the outdoor temperature sensor.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor, A ventilation device that increases the ratio of time that the heater module is on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

3. In paragraph 2, The above processor, A ventilation device that turns on the heater module at a first time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the first temperature and higher than the second temperature.

4. In paragraph 3, The above processor, A ventilation device that turns on the heater module at a second time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the second temperature and higher than the third temperature.

5. In paragraph 4, The above processor, A ventilation device that continuously turns on the heater module when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the third temperature.

6. In paragraph 1, an indoor temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the indoor air; and Further comprising a heat exchange temperature sensor that detects the temperature of air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger; The above processor, A ventilation device that determines whether the heat exchanger is frozen based on the temperature of the outdoor air detected above, the temperature of the indoor air, and the temperature of the air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger.

7. In paragraph 6, The above processor, A ventilation device that turns on the heater module when the above heat exchanger is determined to be frozen.

8. In paragraph 1, The above processor, A ventilation device that keeps the above heat exchanger in the on state.

9. A method for controlling a ventilation device including a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between outdoor air sucked in through a first intake port of a housing and indoor air sucked in through a second intake port of the housing, and a heater module that heats the outdoor air sucked in through the first intake port, Detecting the temperature of the outdoor air; A method for controlling a ventilation device, comprising: controlling a ratio of on time and off time of the heater module based on the temperature of the outdoor air detected above.

10. In paragraph 9, Controlling the ratio of on and off times of the above heater module is as follows: A method of controlling a ventilation device, comprising increasing the ratio of time that the heater module is turned on as the temperature of the outdoor air decreases.

11. In paragraph 10, Controlling the ratio of on and off times of the above heater module is as follows: A method for controlling a ventilation device, comprising: turning on the heater module at a first time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than a first temperature and higher than a second temperature.

12. In paragraph 11, Controlling the ratio of on and off times of the above heater module is as follows: A method for controlling a ventilation device, comprising: turning on the heater module at a second time ratio when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the second temperature and higher than the third temperature.

13. In paragraph 12, Controlling the ratio of on and off times of the above heater module is as follows: A method for controlling a ventilation device, comprising continuously turning on the heater module when the temperature of the outdoor air is lower than the third temperature.

14. In paragraph 9, Detecting the temperature of the indoor air and the temperature of the air discharged into the indoor space through the heat exchanger; A method for controlling a ventilation device, further comprising: determining whether the heat exchanger is frozen based on the detected temperature of the outdoor air, the temperature of the indoor air, and the temperature of the air passing through the heat exchanger and discharged into the indoor space.

15. In paragraph 14, A method of controlling a ventilation device, further comprising: turning on the heater module when the heat exchanger is determined to be frozen.

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