Air conditioner

Abstract

The air conditioner comprises: a housing: a blower fan disposed in the housing and moving air in the housing in a first direction; a filter device disposed in the housing and configured to filter air flowing in the first direction; a photocatalyst filter disposed in the housing; and a light source substrate which is disposed in the housing and to which a light source is electrically connected, the light source substrate being configured to emit light to the photocatalytic filter so as to deodorize air flowing in the first direction, wherein the photocatalyst filter and the light source substrate may be arranged in the first direction and inclined with respect to each other.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an air conditioner including a deodorizing device.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that regulates the condition of air and may include a deodorizing device to remove odor from the air.

[0003] A deodorizing device may include a light source and a photocatalytic filter to remove odorous substances in the air. The photocatalytic filter reacts with light irradiated from the light source to produce a reactant, which decomposes the odorous substances and deodorizes the air.

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner having reduced airflow resistance.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner with reduced noise.

[0006] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure 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 disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0007] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosure comprises: a housing; a blower fan disposed within the housing and configured to move air within the housing in a first direction; a filter device disposed within the housing and configured to filter air flowing in the first direction; a photocatalytic filter disposed within the housing; and a light source substrate disposed within the housing and electrically connected to a light source configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air flowing in the first direction; wherein the photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate are arranged in the first direction and can be inclined toward each other.

[0008] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosure may include an electrostatic precipitator including a blower fan for moving air; a dust collecting electrode configured to capture aerosols from air moved by the blower fan; a discharge electrode configured to emit electrons and positioned upstream of the dust collecting electrode; and an electric field induction electrode grounded to form an electric field with the discharge electrode and positioned upstream of the discharge electrode; a photocatalytic filter positioned downstream of the electrostatic precipitator; and a light source positioned downstream of the electrostatic precipitator and configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air, the light source being electrically connected to the photocatalytic filter and having an inclined light source substrate.

[0009] An air conditioner according to one aspect of the disclosure comprises a housing, comprising a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a third surface connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface, and a fourth surface connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface and opposite the third surface; a blower fan disposed within the housing and moving air within the housing; a dust collector disposed within the housing; and a deodorizing device disposed within the housing and configured to deodorize air blown by the blower fan; wherein the deodorizing device may include a photocatalytic filter; and a light source configured to irradiate light onto the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air; and a light source substrate electrically connected to the light source and positioned downstream of the photocatalytic filter and inclined with the photocatalytic filter.

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a dust collection device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0016] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 11 shows the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 12 shows the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 13 shows the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0028] The embodiments described in this disclosure and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosure, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of the disclosure at the time of filing of this application.

[0029] Additionally, the same reference numbers or symbols presented in each drawing of the present disclosure represent parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0030] In addition, the terminology used in this disclosure is used to describe embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosure. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this disclosure, terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the disclosure, but do not preemptively exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0031] Additionally, in the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “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 the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0032] Additionally, the term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0033] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure 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 disclosure, 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.

[0034] Furthermore, the meaning of "identical" in this disclosure includes having similar properties or being similar within a certain range. Furthermore, "identical" means "substantially identical." "Substantially identical" should be understood to include values ​​that fall within the manufacturing error range or values ​​that differ from a reference value within a range that has no significance.

[0035] 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 hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one software stored in a memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0036] Meanwhile, the terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0037] In one embodiment, the air conditioner may include a filter device. The filter device may filter out dust and the like in the air. The filter device may include an electrostatic precipitator. However, the type of filter device is not limited to the electrostatic precipitator described above. The filter device may be expressed as a dust collector.

[0038] An electrostatic precipitator is a device designed to remove airborne aerosols generated by activities such as smoking, cooking, cleaning, welding, grinding, and operating internal combustion engines within a given space. Electrostatic precipitators can be installed within devices capable of performing air filtering functions, such as air conditioners.

[0039] Furthermore, for convenience of explanation, the present disclosure is illustrated below using an air purifier, a type of air conditioner, as an example. However, the present disclosure is not limited to air purifiers and can be applied to other air conditioners for capturing airborne aerosols. For example, the present disclosure can be applied to air conditioners, which are a type of air conditioner other than air purifiers. Furthermore, the present disclosure can be applied to any home appliance that includes an electrostatic precipitator.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of the air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of area A illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner (1) may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may form the exterior of the air conditioner (1).

[0043] The housing (10) may include an upper panel (15). The upper panel (15) may be provided on the upper end of the housing (10). The upper panel (15) may be positioned above the blower panel (11). A user display may be provided on the upper panel (15). For example, the user display may include a control unit. The user display may receive user input or output operation information of the air conditioner (1) to the user.

[0044] The housing (10) may include a support (16). The support (16) may be positioned at the lowermost side of the housing (10) to support elements constituting the housing (10) and the air conditioner (1).

[0045] The housing (10) may include a blower panel (11). The blower panel (11) may include a first panel (11a), a second panel (11b), a third panel (11c), and a fourth panel (11d). The first panel (11a) may form the front of the air conditioner (1), the second panel (11b) may form the rear of the housing (10), and the third panel (11c) and the fourth panel (11d) may form the sides of the housing (10). The third panel (11c) and the fourth panel (11d) may connect the first panel (11a) and the second panel (11b). The first panel (11a) may be a front panel, the second panel (11b) may be a rear panel, the third panel (11c) may be a left panel, and the fourth panel (11d) may be a right panel. The first panel (11a), the second panel (11b), the third panel (11c), and the fourth panel (11d) may be formed integrally.

[0046] The ventilation panel (11) may include a panel portion (12) and a ventilation opening (13).

[0047] The panel portion (12) may include a plurality of ribs. The plurality of ribs may extend in one direction. For example, the plurality of ribs may extend in an up-down direction. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0048] The panel portion (12) can be formed over the entire area of ​​the blower panel (11). The blower panel (11) can be provided without a hole that is separately formed to expose the discharge electrode (61) inside the housing (10) to the outside. For example, the panel portion (12) can be provided in a uniform pattern over the entire area of ​​the blower panel (11). This increases the degree of freedom in the design of the blower panel (11), thereby improving aesthetics.

[0049] The air vent (13) may be formed corresponding to the panel portion (12). For example, the air vent (13) may be an opening formed between a plurality of ribs of the panel portion (12). Air outside the housing (10) may be sucked into the housing (10) through the air vent (13) or discharged from the housing (10). The air vent (13) may include a plurality of openings.

[0050] The air conditioner (1) may include a vent (13). For example, a vent panel (11) may be formed with a vent (13) to allow outside air to flow into and exhaust the interior of the air conditioner (1). The vent (13) may extend in a vertical direction. A plurality of vents (13) may be formed. The plurality of vents (13) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. For example, the plurality of vents (13) may be arranged in a left-right direction or a front-back direction.

[0051] Air blown through the blower fan (30) can pass through the blower port (13). The blower port (13) can include a first intake port (13a) and an exhaust port (13b). The first intake port (13a) can be located upstream of the exhaust port (13b). The exhaust port (13b) can be located downstream of the first intake port (13a). The air can pass through the housing (10). The air that has flowed into the housing (10) through the first intake port (13a) can pass through the blower fan (30) and flow to the outside of the housing (10) through the exhaust port (13b).

[0052] The first suction port (13a) may be provided below the discharge port (13b). The discharge port (13b) may be provided above the first suction port (13a). However, the positions of the first suction port (13a) and the discharge port (13b) are not limited to the above-described examples.

[0053] The first intake port (13a) and the discharge port (13b) may be formed in the first panel (11a), the second panel (11b), the third panel (11c), and the fourth panel (11d), respectively. For example, the first intake port (13a) and the discharge port (13b) may be formed in the front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing (10).

[0054] For example, air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the first intake port (13a). For example, air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the first intake port (13a). In addition, for example, air inside the housing (10) can flow out of the housing (10) in all directions through the exhaust port (13b). For example, air inside the housing (10) can flow out of the housing (10) in all directions through the exhaust port (13b).

[0055] Therefore, since air is sucked in from all directions, air circulation inside the housing (10) is smooth, and the electric dust collector and the air conditioner including the same can achieve high dust collection efficiency.

[0056] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a dust collection device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0057] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 1 taken along line B-B'. Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of area C illustrated in Fig. 3.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the air conditioner (1) may include a blower fan (30). The blower fan (30) may be positioned downstream of the first intake port (13a) and upstream of the exhaust port (13b). The blower fan (30) may be positioned at the upper portion within the housing (10). The blower fan (30) may rotate to create an air flow flowing within the housing (10).

[0059] Air can pass through the housing (10) along an air flow direction. The air flow direction can be a direction from upstream to downstream of the air passage (20). The air flow direction can be a first direction. For example, the first direction within the housing (10) can include a vertical direction. The air flow direction can be a direction in which air flows into the housing (10) through the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14), passes through the electric precipitator (50) and the blower fan (30), and then flows toward the exhaust port (13b). For example, the air flow direction can be a direction in which air flows into the housing (10) through the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14), moves in a predetermined angle, and then passes through the electric precipitator (50) and the blower fan (30). For example, air sucked into the front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing (10) by the blower fan (30) may flow upward and then be discharged again into the front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing (10). However, the direction of air flow is not limited to the above-described example.

[0060] The housing (10) may include an air guide (17). Air flowing into the housing (10) through the intake ports (13a, 14) may be guided toward the blower fan (30) through the air guide (17). The air guide (17) may form a part of a flow path (20) therein. The air guide (17) may guide air inside the housing (10) and / or in the flow path (20) to the blower fan (30). Air passing through the interior of the air guide (17) may flow into the interior of the fan housing (18) and the blower fan (30).

[0061] The housing (10) may include a fan housing (18). A blower fan (30) may be disposed within the fan housing (18). The fan housing (18) may form a portion of a flow path (20) therein. The fan housing (18) may guide the flow of air flowing within the housing (10). The fan housing (18) may be in communication with an air guide (17). The fan housing (18) may be disposed above the air guide (17).

[0062] A blower fan (30) may be placed within a fan housing (18). The fan housing (18) may form a portion of a flow path (20) therein. The fan housing (18) may guide the flow of air flowing within the housing (10). The fan housing (18) may be in communication with an air guide (17).

[0063] The housing (10) may include a support frame (19). The support frame (19) may allow the electrostatic precipitator (50) and the deodorizing device (200) to be fixed within the housing (10). For example, the support frame (19) may be positioned inside the blower panel (11), and the deodorizing device (200) may be positioned between the support frame (19) and the case (100) and fixed within the housing (10). A portion of the flow path (20) may be formed within the support frame (19).

[0064] The housing (10) may include a case (100). The case (100) may secure an electric precipitator (50) inside the housing (10). The case (100) may be placed on the outside of the electric precipitator (50). A second suction port (14) may be formed in the case (100). The case (100) may be included in the electric precipitator (50).

[0065] A path (20) may be formed within the housing (10). An electric dust collector (50) and a blower fan (30) may be positioned on the path (20). The path (20) may include a first suction port (13a), a second suction port (14), and an exhaust port (13b). Air blown by the blower fan (30) may flow into the path (20). For example, air passing through the first suction port (13a) may flow into the second suction port (14), and air drawn into the path (20) through the second suction port (14) may flow into the exhaust port (13b) after passing through the electric dust collector (50). Air flowing into the exhaust port (13b) may exit from the path (20).

[0066] Air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the second intake port (14). For example, air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the second intake port (14). In addition, for example, air inside the housing (10) can flow out of the housing (10) in all directions through the exhaust port (13b). For example, air inside the housing (10) can flow out of the housing (10) in all directions through the exhaust port (13b).

[0067] In one embodiment, the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14) are described as separate elements, but the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14) may be one element.

[0068] The air conditioner (1) may include a filter device (50). The filter device (50) may include an electrostatic precipitator (50). The electrostatic precipitator (50) may be placed inside a housing (10). For example, the electrostatic precipitator (50) may be fixed inside the housing (10) by a case (100). The electrostatic precipitator (50) may capture aerosols in the air and filter the air.

[0069] The electrostatic precipitator (50) may be positioned between the second suction port (14) and the discharge port (13b). For example, the electrostatic precipitator (50) may be positioned downstream of the second suction port (14) and upstream of the discharge port (13b). The electrostatic precipitator (50) may be moved by the blower fan (30) and may filter the air that is drawn into the housing (10) through the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14). The filtered air may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the discharge port (13b).

[0070] An electrostatic precipitator (50) may include a charging unit (60) and a dust collecting unit (80). The charging unit (60) may charge an aerosol in the air. The dust collecting unit (80) may capture the aerosol charged by the charging unit (60) and remove it from the air. The charging unit (60) may be positioned upstream of the dust collecting unit (80).

[0071] The filter device (50) may include various filter devices in addition to the electric precipitator (50). For example, the filter device (50) may include a fine dust collecting filter in the form of a non-woven fabric formed of polypropylene resin or polyethylene resin and / or a granular activated carbon filter.

[0072] The charging unit (60) may include a discharge electrode (61). The discharge electrode (61) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The discharge electrode (61) may generate ions. For example, the discharge electrode (61) may receive a high voltage from the power supply unit (51) to emit electrons, and ions may be generated by corona discharge when the electrons collide with air molecules. The discharge electrode (61) may receive a voltage to emit electrons, and the emitted electrons may generate negative or positive ions in a relationship with air molecules. For example, a voltage of 2000 V to 20000 V or less may be applied to the discharge electrode (61).

[0073] The discharge electrode (61) may include a plurality of discharge electrodes (61). The plurality of discharge electrodes (61) may be spaced apart from each other. In the drawing, nine discharge electrodes (61) are illustrated as an example, but the number of discharge electrodes (61) is not limited thereto.

[0074] The discharge unit (60) may include a printed circuit board (53). The printed circuit board (53) may be electrically connected to a discharge electrode (61) so that the discharge electrode (61) may emit electrons. The printed circuit board (53) may extend in one direction and be electrically connected to a plurality of discharge electrodes (61). The printed circuit board (53) may include a plurality of printed circuit boards (53). The plurality of printed circuit boards (53) may be spaced apart from each other in a direction different from the direction in which they extend from each other.

[0075] The charging unit (60) may include an electric field induction electrode (71). The electric field induction electrode (71) may induce an electric field with the discharge electrode (61). The electric field induction electrode (71) may be disposed upstream of the discharge electrode (61) with respect to the air flow direction. In addition, the electric field induction electrode (71) may be an upstream electrode (71). The electric field induction electrode (71) may be disposed between the second suction port (14) and the discharge electrode (61). The electric field induction electrode (71) may be disposed closer to the second suction port (14) than to the discharge port (13b).

[0076] At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a conductive material. At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a metal. At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a metal or a conductive material exhibiting electrical characteristics similar thereto.

[0077] The field induction electrode (71) can be grounded with the ground (52). For example, the field induction electrode (71) can maintain a voltage of approximately 0 V. The field induction electrode (71) can maintain a lower potential than the discharge electrode (61). Therefore, a constant potential difference can be formed between the field induction electrode (71) and the discharge electrode (61). An electric field can be formed between the field induction electrode (71) and the discharge electrode (61). High-density ions can be generated between the discharge electrode (61) and the field induction electrode (71).

[0078] The electric field induction electrode (71) may include an electrode portion (72). Part or all of the electrode portion (72) may include a conductive material. Part or all of the electrode portion (72) may include a metal. At least a portion of the electrode portion (72) may include a metal or a conductive material exhibiting electrical characteristics similar thereto.

[0079] The field induction electrode (71) may have a closed loop shape. The field induction electrode (71) may have a polygonal ring shape. The electrode portion (72) may have a polygonal ring shape. The electrode portion (72) may be formed in a closed loop shape to form an opening. Accordingly, the opening may also have a polygonal shape. For example, a discharge electrode (61) may be placed in the opening (75) formed by the field induction electrode (71).

[0080] An electrostatic precipitator (50) may include a dust collecting unit (80). The dust collecting unit (80) may include a first dust collecting electrode (82) and a second dust collecting electrode (83) (see FIG. 4). The first dust collecting electrode (82) and the second dust collecting electrode (83) may be alternately arranged in the front-back direction and / or the left-right direction. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first dust collecting electrode (82) and the second dust collecting electrode (83) may also be alternately arranged in the vertical direction.

[0081] The dust collecting unit (80) can be electrically connected to the power supply unit (51). A high voltage can be applied to the first dust collecting electrode (82) from the power supply unit (51), and the second dust collecting electrode (83) can be grounded. A higher voltage can be applied to the first dust collecting electrode (82) than to the second dust collecting electrode (83), so that the first dust collecting electrode (82) can be formed as a positive (+) electrode, and the second dust collecting electrode (83) can be formed as a negative (-) electrode. An electric field is formed between the first dust collecting electrode (82) and the second dust collecting electrode (83), so that the aerosol charged from the charging unit (60) can be captured by the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83).

[0082] Both sides of the dust collecting electrode (82, 83) may be coated with an insulator.

[0083] The blower panel (11) is positioned upstream of the electrostatic precipitator (50) in the air flow direction, so as to cover the electrostatic precipitator (50) from being exposed to the outside of the housing (10). The panel portion (12) of the blower panel (11) can cover the electrostatic precipitator (50). The panel portion (12) can be positioned upstream of the electrostatic precipitator (50) in the air flow direction.

[0084] The discharge unit (60) may further include a ground electrode (91). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned downstream of the discharge electrode (61) with respect to the air flow direction. The ground electrode (91) may be a downstream electrode (91). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned between the discharge electrode (61) and the dust collector (80). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned adjacent to the dust collector (80).

[0085] The ground electrode (91) can be grounded with the ground (52). For example, the ground electrode (91) can maintain a voltage of approximately 0 V. The ground electrode (91) can maintain a lower potential than the discharge electrode (61). Therefore, a constant potential difference can be formed between the ground electrode (91) and the discharge electrode (61). An electric field can be formed between the ground electrode (91) and the discharge electrode (61). High-density ions can be generated between the discharge electrode (61) and the ground electrode (91).

[0086] The ground electrode (91) may have a mesh shape. The ground electrode (91) may have a plate shape. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the ground electrode (91) may have the same shape as the electric field induction electrode (71).

[0087] Part or all of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a conductive material. Part or all of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a metal. At least a portion of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a metal or a conductive material exhibiting electrical characteristics similar thereto.

[0088] The electric dust collector (50) may include a case (100). The case (100) may be disposed inside a space formed by a plurality of blower panels (11). The case (100) may accommodate components of the electric dust collector (50). The case (100) may form a receiving space in which components of the electric dust collector (50) are accommodated. Accordingly, the discharge electrode (61), the electric field induction electrode (71), the ground electrode (91), the dust collector (80), etc., included in the electric dust collector (50) are not exposed to the outside of the housing (10), so that the aesthetics of the air conditioner may be improved.

[0089] The case (100) may include a dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and a charging case (140, 150, 160). The dust collection case (110, 120, 130) is configured to accommodate dust collection electrodes (82, 83), and a communication hole (110a, 120a, 130a, 140a, 150a) through which air passing through the charging unit (60) passes may be formed in the dust collection case (110, 120, 130). The charging case (140, 150, 160) is configured to accommodate components for charging, such as an electric field induction electrode (71), a discharge electrode (61), and a second suction port (14) through which air flows into the interior of the electric dust collector (50) may be formed. In the drawing, the dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and the charging case (140, 150, 160) are depicted as separate components, but the dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and the charging case (140, 150, 160) may be formed as one piece.

[0090] The dust collection case (110, 120, 130) may include a plurality of dust collection case parts (110, 120, 130). The plurality of dust collection case parts (110, 120, 130) may include a first dust collection case part (110), a second dust collection case part (120), and a third dust collection case part (130). However, the plurality of dust collection case parts (110, 120, 130) may be formed integrally to form a single case.

[0091] The first dust collecting case part (110) may be placed on top of the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The first dust collecting case part (110) may cover at least a portion of the upper and side portions of the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The first dust collecting case part (110) may be placed on top of the second dust collecting case part (120) and the third dust collecting case part (130). The first dust collecting case part (110) may be coupled to the third dust collecting case part (130). The first dust collecting case part (110) may include a coupling part (111). The first dust collecting case part (110) and the third dust collecting case part (130) may be hook-coupled. The coupling part (111) of the first dust collecting case part (110) may be hook-coupled to the coupling part (131) of the third dust collecting case part (130). A dust collecting electrode (82, 83) can be accommodated in the space formed by combining the first dust collecting case (110) and the third dust collecting case (130).

[0092] The first dust collecting case (110) may include a first communication hole (110a). The first dust collecting case (110) may be formed with a first communication hole (110a). Air passing through the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83) may flow toward the blower fan (30) through the first communication hole (110a). The first communication hole (110a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the fan and downstream of the second suction port (14) on the flow path (20).

[0093] The second dust collecting case (120) may be placed below the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The second dust collecting case (120) may cover a portion of the front and rear portions of the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The second dust collecting case (120) may support the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The second dust collecting case (120) may be placed between the first dust collecting case (110) and the third dust collecting case (130). The second dust collecting case (120) may be mounted on the third dust collecting case (130).

[0094] The second dust collecting case (120) may include a second communication hole (120a). The second dust collecting case (120) may be formed with a second communication hole (120a). Air passing through the charging unit (60) may pass through the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83) through the second communication hole (120a). The second communication hole (120a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the blower fan (30) and downstream of the second suction port (14) on the flow path (20). In addition, the second communication hole (120a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the first communication hole (110a) on the flow path (20).

[0095] The third dust collecting case (130) may be placed below the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The third dust collecting case (130) may cover the front, rear, side, and lower portion of the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The third dust collecting case (130) may support the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83). The third dust collecting case (130) may be placed below the first dust collecting case (110) and the second dust collecting case (120).

[0096] The third dust collecting case part (130) can be coupled with the first dust collecting case part (110). The third dust collecting case part (130) can include a coupling part (131). The first dust collecting case part (110) and the third dust collecting case part (130) can be hook-coupled. The coupling part (111) of the first dust collecting case part (110) can be hook-coupled with the coupling part (131) of the third dust collecting case part (130). Dust collecting electrodes (82, 83) can be accommodated in the space formed by coupling the first dust collecting case part (110) and the third dust collecting case part (130).

[0097] The third dust collection case (130) may include an electrode mounting portion (132). A ground electrode may be mounted on the electrode mounting portion (132).

[0098] The third dust collection case (130) may include a third communication hole (130a). The third dust collection case (130) may be formed with a third communication hole (130a). Air passing through the charging unit (60) may pass through the dust collection electrodes (82, 83) through the third communication hole (130a). The third communication hole (130a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the fan and downstream of the second suction port (14) on the flow path (20). In addition, the third communication hole (130a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the first communication hole (110a) and the second communication hole (120a) on the flow path (20).

[0099] The charging case (140, 150, 160) may include a plurality of charging case parts (140, 150, 160). The plurality of charging case parts (140, 150, 160) may include a first charging case part (140), a second charging case part (150), and a third charging case part (160). However, the plurality of charging case parts (140, 150, 160) may be formed integrally to form a single case.

[0100] The first charging case (140) can be placed on top of the discharge electrode (61), the printed circuit board (53), and the electric field induction electrode (71). The first charging case (140) can cover the discharge electrode (61) and the printed circuit board (53).

[0101] A printed circuit board (53) can be bonded to the first charging case portion (140). The first charging case portion (140) can be placed on top of the second charging case portion (150) and the third charging case portion (160).

[0102] The first charging case (140) may include a fourth communication hole (140a). The first charging case (140) may be formed with a fourth communication hole (140a). Air passing through the suction ports (13a, 14) may flow to the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83) through the fourth communication hole (140a). The fourth communication hole (140a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the blower fan (30) and downstream of the second suction port (14) on the flow path (20).

[0103] The second charging case part (150) may be placed below the first charging case part (140). A printed circuit board (53) may be mounted on the second charging case part (150). In addition, a discharge electrode (61) may be inserted into the second charging case part (150). The second charging case part (150) may support the printed circuit board (53) and / or the discharge electrode (61). The second charging case part (150) may be placed between the first charging case part (140) and the third charging case part (160).

[0104] The second charging case part (150) can be coupled with the third charging case part (160). The second charging case part (150) can include a coupling part (151). The second charging case part (150) and the third charging case part (160) can be hook-coupled. The coupling part (151) of the second charging case part (150) can be hook-coupled with the coupling part (161) of the third charging case part (160). An electric field induction electrode (71) can be accommodated in the space formed by coupling the second charging case part (150) and the third charging case part (160).

[0105] The second charging case (150) may include a fifth communication hole (150a). The second charging case (150) may be formed with a fifth communication hole (150a). Air passing through the suction ports (13a, 14) may flow to the dust collecting electrodes (82, 83) through the fifth communication hole (150a). The fifth communication hole (150a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the blower fan (30) and downstream of the second suction port (14) on the flow path (20). In addition, the fifth communication hole (150a) may be positioned and arranged upstream of the fourth communication hole (140a) on the flow path (20).

[0106] The second charging case (150) may include a substrate mounting portion (152). The substrate mounting portion (152) may be provided in a manner corresponding to the number and shape of printed circuit boards (53). The substrate mounting portion (152) may extend in one direction. The printed circuit board (53) may be mounted on the substrate mounting portion (152), and the discharge electrode (61) may penetrate the substrate mounting portion (152) and protrude toward the third charging case (160).

[0107] The third charging case (160) may be placed below the second charging case (150). An electric field induction electrode (71) may be mounted on the third charging case (160). The third dust collection case (130) may support the electric field induction electrode (71). The third charging case (160) may be placed below the first charging case (140) and the second charging case (150). The third charging case (160) may be coupled with the second charging case (150).

[0108] The third charging case (160) may include an induction electrode mounting portion (162). The induction electrode mounting portion (162) may be provided to correspond to the shape of the electric field induction electrode (71). The induction electrode mounting portion (162) may include a square shape. The electric field induction electrode (71) may be mounted on the induction electrode mounting portion (162) and may be positioned between the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160).

[0109] The third case (160) may include a bottom (163). The bottom (163) may prevent air that has entered the inside of the case (140, 150, 160) through the second intake port (14) from escaping downward.

[0110] The second charging case part (150) and the third charging case part (160) may have suction ports formed therein. For example, second suction ports (14) may be formed on the sides of the second charging case part (150) and the third charging case part (160). The second suction ports (14) may be formed on all sides of the second charging case part (150) and on all sides of the third charging case part (160). Accordingly, air may flow into the interior of the charging case parts (140, 150, 160) from all sides.

[0111] Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of area D illustrated in Fig. 3. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the air conditioner may further include a deodorizing device (200). The deodorizing device (200) can deodorize air flowing inside the housing (10). The deodorizing device (200) can remove odorous substances in the air flowing in the first direction. In addition, the deodorizing device (200) may be a sterilizing device (200) that sterilizes the air. For example, the sterilizing device (200) can sterilize the air by decomposing organic substances in the air.

[0113] The deodorizing device (200) may be positioned downstream of the dust collecting device (50). The deodorizing device (200) may be positioned above the dust collecting device (50). For example, air from which dust has been removed after passing through the dust collecting device (50) may pass through the deodorizing device (200) and have its odor removed.

[0114] However, the location of the deodorizing device (200) is not limited to the above-described example. The deodorizing device (200) may be located upstream of the dust collecting device (50), or may be placed below the dust collecting device (50).

[0115] The deodorizing device (200) may include a light source device (220) and a photocatalytic filter (260). The photocatalytic filter (260) reacts with light irradiated from the light source (222) of the light source device (220) to generate a reactant, and the reactant can decompose odorous substances to deodorize the air. In addition, the deodorizing device (200) may be a sterilizing device (200) that sterilizes air. The method by which the sterilizing device (200) including the photocatalytic filter (260) and the light source (222) sterilizes air is well known, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0116] The light source device (220) may be placed downstream of the photocatalytic filter (260). The light source device (220) may be placed above the photocatalytic filter (260), the filter mounting member (230), and the filter case (240, 250), and may be placed below the substrate mounting member (210).

[0117] However, the position of the light source device (220) is not limited to the above-described example. The light source device (220) may be positioned upstream of the photocatalytic filter (260), or may be positioned below the photocatalytic filter (260).

[0118] The light source device (220) may include a light source substrate (221) and a light source (222). The light source substrate (221) may extend in one direction, and a plurality of light sources (222) may be electrically connected. For example, a light source (222) may be arranged on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221). A plurality of light source substrates (221) may be provided.

[0119] Each of the plurality of light source substrates (221) may be disposed adjacent to the plurality of panels (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) of the housing (10). For example, one of the plurality of light source substrates (221) may be disposed adjacent to the front panel (11a), another may be disposed adjacent to the rear panel (11b), another may be disposed adjacent to the left panel (11c), and another may be disposed adjacent to the right panel (11d). The plurality of light source substrates (221) may extend in parallel in pairs. For example, two of the plurality of light source substrates (221) may extend in the left-right direction, and the other two of the plurality of light source substrates (221) may extend in the front-back direction. However, the number and extension direction of the plurality of light source substrates (221) are not limited to the above-described example.

[0120] The light source substrate (221) can be tilted. The light source substrate (221) can be inclined with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260). For example, the light source substrate (221) can be inclined with respect to the upper surface of the photocatalyst filter (260). In addition, for example, while the photocatalyst filter (260) extends in the horizontal direction, the light source substrate (221) can have an incline with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) can be arranged to be inclined downward toward the blower panel (11) of the housing (10). Therefore, the obstruction of the air flow within the housing (10) by the light source substrate (221) can be reduced. In addition, the light source (222) arranged on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) can also irradiate light to the photocatalyst filter (260) while having an incline with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260).

[0121] However, the arrangement relationship between the light source substrate (221) and the photocatalyst filter (260) is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the light source substrate (221) may be arranged horizontally and the photocatalyst filter (260) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0122] The light source substrate (221) can be mounted and / or fixed to the substrate mounting member (210). The light source substrate (221) can be fixed to the substrate mounting member (210) by the substrate fixing member (212). For example, the light source substrate (221) can be fixed to the substrate fixing member (211) formed on the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210) and fixed by the substrate fixing member (212) that supports the lower surface of the light source substrate (221).

[0123] A light source (222) may be arranged on the lower surface of a light source substrate (221) to irradiate light to a photocatalytic filter (260). Light irradiated from the light source (222) may react with the photocatalytic filter (260) to generate a reactant. For example, the light source (222) may include a UV-LED, and the light source (222) may emit UV light. The light sources (222) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple light sources (222) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of each of the multiple light source substrates (221). For example, the multiple light sources (222) may correspond to the multiple filter units (262), respectively.

[0124] The light source device (220) may further include a connecting portion (223). The connecting portion (223) may electrically connect at least one control unit and the light source substrate (221). For example, the connecting portion (223) may be connected to the control unit via a wire. The connecting portion (223) may be provided on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221). The connecting portion (223) may protrude downward from the light source substrate (221). However, the manner in which the connecting portion (223) and the control unit are electrically connected is not limited to the above-described example. In addition, the light source device (220) may not include the connecting portion (223), and the control unit and the light source device (220) may communicate wirelessly.

[0125] At least one control unit can control the on / off of the light source. For example, the control unit can cause the light source to be on while the air conditioner is operating, and can cause the light source to be off while the air conditioner is not operating.

[0126] The light irradiated from the photocatalytic filter (260) and the light source (222) react to generate a reactant, and the reactant decomposes an odorous substance, thereby deodorizing the air adjacent to the photocatalytic filter (260).

[0127] The photocatalytic filter (260) may be inclined relative to the light source substrate (221). For example, while the photocatalytic filter (260) extends in a horizontal direction, the light source substrate (221) may be inclined relative to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) may be arranged to be inclined downward toward the blower panel (11) of the housing (10). Accordingly, the light source substrate (221) may be reduced from interfering with the air flow within the housing (10). In addition, the light source (222) arranged on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) may also be inclined relative to the photocatalytic filter (260) and may irradiate light onto the photocatalytic filter (260).

[0128] However, the arrangement relationship between the light source substrate (221) and the photocatalyst filter (260) is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the light source substrate (221) may be arranged horizontally and the photocatalyst filter (260) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0129] The photocatalytic filter (260) may be placed upstream of the substrate mounting member (210), the light source device (220), and the filter mounting member (230). The photocatalytic filter (260) may be placed below the substrate mounting member (210), the light source device (220), and the filter mounting member (230).

[0130] The deodorizing device (200) may include an opening (261). The opening (261) may be formed between a plurality of filter sections (262). For example, the opening (261) may be surrounded by a plurality of filter sections (262). The opening (261) may be a first opening (261).

[0131] The photocatalytic filter (260) may include a plurality of filter sections (262). The plurality of filter sections (262) may correspond to the openings (240a, 250a) of the filter cases (240, 250). For example, the plurality of filter sections (262) may include 12 filter sections (262).

[0132] Air introduced into the housing (10) can pass through the first opening (261) and multiple filter sections (262).

[0133] The deodorizing device (200) may further include a substrate mounting member (210). The substrate mounting member (210) may be disposed above the light source device (220) to secure the light source device (220) within the housing (10). The substrate mounting member (210) may be positioned downstream of the light source device (220), the photocatalytic filter (260), the filter mounting member (230), and the filter case (240, 250). The substrate mounting member (210) may be disposed above the light source device (220), the photocatalytic filter (260), the filter mounting member (230), and the filter case (240, 250).

[0134] The substrate mounting member (210) may include a substrate mounting portion (211). The substrate mounting portion (211) may be provided on the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210). A light source substrate (221) may be placed on the substrate mounting portion (211). The number and shape of the substrate mounting portions (211) may correspond to the number and shape of the light source substrates (221). A plurality of substrate mounting portions (211) may be provided. For example, the substrate mounting portion (211) may be recessed upward, and a light source substrate (221) may be placed on the recessed substrate mounting portion (211).

[0135] The substrate mounting member (210) may include a substrate fixing member (212). The substrate fixing member (212) may protrude from the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210). The substrate fixing member (212) may support the lower surface of the light source substrate (221), thereby preventing the light source substrate (221) from being separated. The substrate fixing member (212) may include a hook. A plurality of substrate fixing members (212) may be provided.

[0136] The substrate mounting member (210) can be coupled to the filter mounting member (230). The substrate mounting member (210) can include a filter mounting member fixing portion (213). The filter mounting member fixing portion (213) can be disposed on the inside of the filter mounting member (230) to fix the filter mounting member (230). For example, the filter mounting member fixing portion (213) can be formed to surround the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210). The filter mounting member fixing portion (213) can be formed at an edge of the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210). For example, the filter mounting member fixing portion (213) can be formed at a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge of the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210).

[0137] An opening (210a) may be formed in the substrate mounting member (210). Air may be discharged from the deodorizing device (200) through the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210).

[0138] The deodorizing device (200) may further include a filter mounting member (230). The filter mounting member (230) may mount the photocatalytic filter (260) and the deodorizing device (200) including the photocatalytic filter (260) within the housing (10). Through the filter mounting member (230), the filter (260) may be withdrawn from the housing (10) and introduced into the housing (10).

[0139] The filter mounting member (230) can cover the upper part of the photocatalyst filter (260). The filter mounting member (230) can be positioned downstream of the substrate mounting member (210) and the light source device (220), and upstream of the photocatalyst filter (260) and the filter case (240, 250). The filter mounting member (230) can be positioned above the substrate mounting member (210) and the light source device (220), and below the photocatalyst filter (260) and the filter case (240, 250).

[0140] The filter mounting member (230) may include a hole forming portion (232). The hole forming portion (232) may be disposed below the light source substrate (221) and the light source (222). The hole forming portion (232) may have an incline. For example, the hole forming portion (232) may be parallel to the light source substrate (231). The hole forming portion (232) may be formed to surround the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230). The hole forming portion (232) may be formed at an edge of the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230). For example, the hole forming portion (232) may be formed at a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge of the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230).

[0141] An opening (230a) may be formed in the filter mounting member (230). Air may be discharged from the deodorizing device (200) through the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230).

[0142] A hole (231) may be formed in the filter mounting member (230). The hole (231) may be provided in a hole forming portion (232). A plurality of holes (231) may be provided. Light emitted from a light source (222) through the hole (231) may be irradiated to the filter portion (262). The hole (231) may correspond to a plurality of filter portions (262). For example, a plurality of holes (231) may be provided to correspond to a plurality of filter portions (262). A plurality of holes (231) may be formed along the hole forming portion (232).

[0143] Since the light source substrate (221) and the hole forming portion (232) are inclined relative to the photocatalytic filter (260), air passing through the housing (10) can bypass the light source substrate (221) and move upward even if it passes through the hole (231). For example, since the light source substrate (221) is inclined relative to the photocatalytic filter (260), the amount of air flowing through the housing (10) colliding with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and the flow resistance due to the air colliding with the light source substrate (221) can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the noise of the air conditioner (1) is reduced, and the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0144] The filter mounting member (230) may include a support member (233). The support member (233) may be positioned below the filter case (240, 250) to support the filter case (240, 250) and the photocatalytic filter (260). The support member (233) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, a plurality of support members (233) may be positioned along the front-rear direction to support the edge of the second filter case (250).

[0145] The filter mounting member (230) may include a housing fixing member (234). The housing fixing member (234) may fix the deodorizing device (200) within the housing (10). The housing fixing member (234) may protrude outward from the periphery of the filter mounting member (230). For example, the housing fixing member (234) may be disposed between the support frame (19) and the case (110), thereby fixing the filter mounting member (230) and the deodorizing device (200) within the housing (10).

[0146] The deodorizing device (200) may further include a filter case (240, 250). The filter case (240, 250) may fix the photocatalytic filter (260) within the housing (10). The filter case (240, 250) may include a first filter case (240) and a second filter case (250). The photocatalytic filter (260) may be positioned between the first filter case (240) and the second filter case (250), thereby fixing the photocatalytic filter (260). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the filter cases (240, 250) may be formed as a single member. The filter cases (240, 250) may be coupled to the housing (10). For example, the filter cases (240, 250) may be screw-coupled to the housing (10).

[0147] The first filter case (240) may be placed on the upper side of the photocatalytic filter (260). The first filter case (240) may form a flow path opening (240a) and a filter opening (240b). For example, the first filter case (240) may include a first frame (242), and the frame may form and / or partition the flow path opening (240a) and the filter opening (240b).

[0148] The flow path opening (240a) may be formed in the central portion of the first filter case (240). The flow path opening (240a) may be surrounded by a filter opening (240b). The filter opening (240b) may correspond to a filter portion (262). Accordingly, a plurality of filter openings (240b) may be provided, and each of the plurality of filter portions (262) may be disposed in the filter opening (240b). The filter portion (262) disposed in the filter opening (240b) may be fixed by the first frame (242).

[0149] The first filter case (240) may include a first handle portion (241). The first handle portion (241) may be provided at one end of the first filter case (240). The first handle portion (241) may form a handle (241, 251) of the deodorizing device (200) together with the second handle portion (251). The first handle portion (241) allows a user to use the handle (241, 251) to pull out the filter case (240, 250) equipped with the photocatalytic filter (260) from the housing (10) and to insert the filter case (240, 250) into the housing (10). For example, the user may separate the filter case (240, 250) from the housing (10) and then use the handle (241, 251) to pull out the photocatalytic filter (260) from the housing (10).

[0150] The second filter case (250) may be placed on the lower side of the photocatalytic filter (260). The second filter case (250) may form a flow path opening (250a) and a filter opening (250b). For example, the second filter case (250) may include a second frame (252), and the second frame (252) may form and / or partition the flow path opening (250a) and the filter opening (250b).

[0151] The flow path opening (250a) may be formed in the central portion of the second filter case (250). The flow path opening (250b) may be surrounded by the filter opening (250b). The filter opening (250b) may correspond to a filter portion (262). Accordingly, a plurality of filter openings (250b) may be provided, and each of the plurality of filter portions (262) may be disposed in the filter opening (250b). The filter portion (262) disposed in the filter opening (250b) may be fixed by the second frame (252).

[0152] The second filter case (250) may include a second handle portion (251). The second handle portion (251) may be provided at one end of the second filter case (250). The second handle portion (251) may form a handle (241, 251) of the deodorizing device (200) together with the first handle portion (241). A user may use the handle (241, 251) to pull out the filter case (240, 250) equipped with the photocatalytic filter (260) from the housing (10) and into the housing (10). For example, the user may separate the filter case (240, 250) from the housing (10) and then pull out the photocatalytic filter (260) from the housing (10) using the handle (241, 251).

[0153] The first filter case (240) may include a first coupling portion. The second filter case (250) may include a second coupling portion (251a). The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion (251a) may be coupled. The first coupling portion may include a protrusion, and the second coupling portion (251a) may include a hole. The first coupling portion may be inserted into the second coupling portion (251a). The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion (251a) may be provided in plurality.

[0154] The first coupling portion may be formed in the first handle portion (241), and the second coupling portion (251a) may be formed in the second handle portion (251). However, the formation positions of the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion (251a) are not limited to the above-described example. For example, the first coupling portion may be formed over the entire frame (242) of the first filter case (240), and the second coupling portion may be formed over the entire frame (252) of the second filter case (250).

[0155] The second filter case (250) may include a position guide protrusion (253). The position guide protrusion (253) may guide the positions of the first filter case (240) and the photocatalytic filter (260) while the first filter case (240) and the second filter case (250) are coupled. The position guide protrusion (253) may be provided around the periphery of the flow path opening (250a) of the second filter case (250). The position guide protrusion (253) may be provided on the inside of the second frame (252). The position guide protrusion (253) may protrude upward from the second frame (252).

[0156] A second handle portion (251) may be provided at one end of the second filter case (250). The second handle portion (251) may form a handle of the deodorizing device (200) together with the first handle portion (241). A user may use the handles (241, 251) to pull out the filter case equipped with the photocatalytic filter (260) from the housing (10) and insert it into the housing (10).

[0157] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0158] Referring to Fig. 10, the light source substrate (221) is positioned downstream of the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be placed above the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be placed on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light onto the upper surface of the filter section (262).

[0159] The light source substrate (221) may have a predetermined angle with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260). For example, the photocatalyst filter (260) is arranged horizontally, and the light source substrate (221) may have an angle with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260) that is equal to or less than half of the maximum irradiation angle (α) of the light source (222). For example, the maximum irradiation angle (α) of the light source (222) may be 110 to 130 degrees.

[0160] As the light source substrate (221) is inclined relative to the photocatalytic filter (260), the air inside the housing (10) can bypass the light source substrate (221) and move upward. For example, as the light source substrate (221) is inclined relative to the photocatalytic filter (260), the amount of air flowing inside the housing (10) that collides with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and the flow resistance due to the air colliding with the light source substrate (221) can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the noise of the air conditioner (1) is reduced, and the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0161] The light source substrate (221) may be arranged biased to one side of the filter section (262) of the photocatalytic filter (260). For example, the light source substrate (221) may be closer to the second end (262b) of the filter section (262) than to the first end (262a). The first end (262a) of the filter section (262) may be closer to the opening (261) than the second end (262b), and the second end (262b) may be farther from the opening (261) than the first end (262a). The first end (262a) may be an inner end, and the second end (262b) may be an outer end. For example, the length (L) of the light source substrate (221) in the horizontal direction from the outer end of the filter unit (262) may be less than half of the total length of the filter unit (262).

[0162] The vertical distance (H) from the filter portion (262) of the light source substrate (221) may vary depending on the maximum irradiation angle (α) of the light source (222) and the angle (β) of the light source substrate (221) with respect to the horizontal. For example, the vertical distance (H) from the filter portion (262) of the light source substrate (221) may be obtained by a trigonometric function. For example, when α is the maximum irradiation angle of the light source (222) and β is the angle of the light source substrate (221) with respect to the horizontal, the height (H) of the light source substrate (221) may be L*tan(90-1 / 2α+β).

[0163] Since the light source substrate (221) and the light source (222) are arranged biased to one side of the filter portion (262) and emit light toward the center of the filter (260), the amount of light directly directed toward the housing (10) and deodorizing device (200) structure is reduced, and thus deterioration and / or discoloration of the housing (10) and deodorizing device (200) structure can be reduced.

[0164] Fig. 11 illustrates the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 illustrates the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 illustrates the light distribution of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0165] Fig. 11 shows the amount of light irradiated from one light source (222) to one filter unit (262) when H is 18 mm and L is 15 mm for one light source substrate (221) and one filter unit (262). At this time, one light source substrate (221) means a light source substrate (221) extending in the X direction. For example, in Fig. 11, the X value is the distance in the left-right direction from the center of the filter unit (262), and the Y value is the distance in the front-back direction from the center of the filter unit (262). Fig. 12 shows the average value of the amount of light across the entire filter unit (262) according to the size of L, and Fig. 13 shows the deviation of the amount of light across the entire filter unit (262) according to the size of L. In FIGS. 12 and 13, 0 is the outer end of the filter part (262), and as the value of L increases, it gets closer to the inner end of the filter part (262) adjacent to the opening (261).

[0166] Referring to Fig. 11, the light source substrate (221) may be positioned higher than the height (H) obtained through the equation illustrated in Fig. 10. For example, if the height (H) obtained through the above calculation is 15 mm, the actual height (H) of the light source substrate (221) may be 18 to 20 mm. Light emitted from one light source (222) may be evenly irradiated to one filter unit (262).

[0167] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, it can be seen that as the H value decreases, the average light quantity increases and at the same time, the deviation in the light quantity also increases. Conversely, it can be seen that as the H value increases, the average light quantity decreases and at the same time, the deviation in the light quantity also decreases.

[0168] The manufacturer of the air conditioner can set the vertical distance (H) between the filter unit (262) and the light source substrate (221) by determining the H value such that the average light quantity is not small and the standard deviation is not large.

[0169] By slanting the light source substrate (221) with respect to the photocatalytic filter (260) and appropriately setting H, not only is the flow resistance of the air flowing inside the housing (10) and the resulting abnormal noise reduced, but also the deodorizing performance can be maintained and / or improved by evenly irradiating light to the filter section (262).

[0170] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 illustrates a filter unit (262) and a light source device (220).

[0171] Referring to Fig. 14, the light source substrate (221) is positioned upstream of the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be positioned below the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be positioned on the upper surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light onto the lower surface of the filter section (262).

[0172] The light source substrate (221) may have a predetermined angle with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260). For example, the light source substrate (221) may be inclined with respect to the lower surface of the photocatalyst filter (260). For example, the photocatalyst filter (260) may be arranged horizontally, and the light source substrate (221) may have an angle with respect to the photocatalyst filter (260) that is equal to or less than half of the maximum irradiation angle (α) of the light source (222).

[0173] However, unlike this, the light source substrate (221) may be placed horizontally, and the photocatalytic filter (260) may have a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0174] By slanting the light source substrate (221) with the photocatalytic filter (260), the flow resistance of air flowing within the housing (10) and the resulting noise can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0175] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 illustrates a filter unit (262) and a light source device (220).

[0176] Referring to Fig. 15, the light source substrate (221) is positioned downstream of the filter portion (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be placed above the filter portion (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be placed on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light onto the upper surface of the filter portion (262).

[0177] Each of the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined downward toward the opening (261). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined upward toward the outside of the housing (10). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be parallel to each other.

[0178] As the light source substrate (221) is inclined, the amount of air flowing inside the housing (10) that collides with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and thus flow resistance and noise can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0179] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 16 illustrates a filter unit (262) and a light source device (220).

[0180] Referring to Fig. 16, the light source substrate (221) is positioned downstream of the filter portion (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be placed above the filter portion (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be placed on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light onto the upper surface of the filter portion (262).

[0181] Each of the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined upward toward the opening (261). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined downward toward the outside of the housing (10). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be parallel to each other.

[0182] As the light source substrate (221) is inclined, the amount of air flowing inside the housing (10) that collides with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and thus flow resistance and noise can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0183] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 illustrates a filter unit (262) and a light source device (220).

[0184] Referring to Fig. 17, the light source substrate (221) is positioned upstream of the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be positioned below the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be positioned on the upper surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light to the lower surface of the filter section (262).

[0185] Each of the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined upward toward the opening (261). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined downward toward the outside of the housing (10). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be parallel to each other.

[0186] As the light source substrate (221) is inclined, the amount of air flowing inside the housing (10) that collides with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and thus flow resistance and noise can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0187] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 18 illustrates a filter unit (262) and a light source device (220).

[0188] Referring to Fig. 18, the light source substrate (221) is positioned upstream of the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260), and may be positioned below the filter section (262) of the photocatalyst filter (260). The light source (222) may be positioned on the upper surface of the light source substrate (221) to irradiate light to the lower surface of the filter section (262).

[0189] Each of the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined downward toward the opening (261). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be inclined upward toward the outside of the housing (10). In addition, for example, the light source substrate (221) and the filter portion (262) may be parallel to each other.

[0190] As the light source substrate (221) is inclined, the amount of air flowing inside the housing (10) that collides with the light source substrate (221) is reduced, and thus flow resistance and noise can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the air conditioner can collect and deodorize more quickly.

[0191] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an air conditioner can be provided in which air flow resistance is reduced and noise is reduced accordingly by slanting a light source substrate and a photocatalytic filter.

[0192] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an air conditioner having improved dust collection and deodorization performance can be provided as air flow resistance is reduced.

[0193] The effects according to one aspect of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0194] An air conditioner according to one embodiment comprises a housing (10); a blower fan (30) disposed within the housing and configured to move air within the housing in a first direction; a filter device (50) disposed within the housing and configured to filter air flowing in the first direction; a photocatalytic filter (260) disposed within the housing; and a light source substrate (221) disposed within the housing and electrically connected to a light source (222) configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air flowing in the first direction, wherein the photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate are arranged in the first direction and can be inclined toward each other.

[0195] The photocatalytic filter may extend in a second direction, and the light source substrate may be arranged at an angle relative to the second direction.

[0196] The photocatalytic filter may include an opening (261); and a plurality of filter sections (262) configured to surround the opening; and the light source may include a plurality of light sources arranged along the plurality of filter sections.

[0197] Each of the plurality of filter sections includes a first stage (262a) adjacent to the opening; and a second stage (262b) further from the opening than the first stage; and the light source substrate may be closer to the second stage than the first stage.

[0198] The photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate may be positioned downstream of the filter device.

[0199] The photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate can be placed on top of the filter device.

[0200] The second direction is a horizontal direction, and the light source substrate can be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0201] The light source substrate is positioned on top of the photocatalytic filter, and the light source substrate can be inclined downward as it goes toward the second stage of the plurality of filter sections.

[0202] The inclination angle of the light source substrate may be less than or equal to half the maximum irradiation angle of the light source.

[0203] It may further include a light source mounting member (210) disposed on the light source substrate and on which the light source substrate is mounted; a filter mounting member (230) disposed below the light source substrate and covering the lower portion of the light source substrate, in which a plurality of holes (231) corresponding to the plurality of light sources are formed; and a filter case (240, 250) configured to combine the plurality of filter parts and fix the photocatalytic filter.

[0204] The fan housing (18) is further configured to accommodate the blower fan, and the filter mounting member and the filter case can be placed below the fan housing.

[0205] The filter device may include a dust collecting electrode (82, 83) configured to capture aerosol from air introduced into the housing by the blower fan; a discharge electrode (61) configured to generate ions and positioned upstream of the dust collecting electrode; an electric field induction electrode (71) grounded to form an electric field with the discharge electrode and positioned upstream of the discharge electrode; and a ground electrode (91) positioned downstream of the discharge electrode and upstream of the dust collecting electrode so that the ions are attached.

[0206] The housing includes a first surface (11a); a second surface (11b) opposite the first surface; a third surface (11c) connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface; and a fourth surface (11d) connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface and opposite the third surface, and a suction port (13a) may be formed on the first surface, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface of the housing.

[0207] The light source substrate is positioned below the photocatalytic filter, and the light source substrate can be inclined upward as it goes toward the second stage of the plurality of filter sections.

[0208] The light source substrate may extend in a horizontal direction, and the photocatalytic filter may be arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the light source substrate.

[0209] An air conditioner according to one embodiment may include an electrostatic precipitator (50) including a blower fan (30) for moving air; a dust collecting electrode (82, 83) configured to capture aerosols from air moved by the blower fan; a discharge electrode (61) configured to emit electrons and positioned upstream of the dust collecting electrode; and an electric field induction electrode (71) grounded and positioned upstream of the discharge electrode to form an electric field with the discharge electrode; a photocatalytic filter (260) positioned downstream of the electrostatic precipitator; and a light source (222) positioned downstream of the electrostatic precipitator and configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air, the photocatalytic filter and the inclined light source substrate (221) being electrically connected.

[0210] The blower fan may move air within the housing upward, the photocatalytic filter may extend in a horizontal direction, and the light source substrate may be arranged at an angle relative to the horizontal direction.

[0211] The photocatalytic filter may include an opening (261); and a plurality of filter sections (262) configured to surround the opening; and the light source may include a plurality of light sources arranged along the plurality of filter sections.

[0212] Each of the plurality of filter sections includes a first stage (262a) adjacent to the opening; and a second stage (262b) further from the opening than the first stage; and the light source substrate is disposed above the photocatalytic filter and is closer to the second stage than the first stage, and the light source substrate may be inclined downward toward the second stage of the plurality of filter sections.

[0213] An air conditioner according to one embodiment comprises a housing (10) including a first surface (11a), a second surface (11b) opposite the first surface, a third surface (11c) connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface, and a fourth surface (11d) connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface and opposite the third surface; a blower fan (30) disposed within the housing and moving air within the housing; a dust collector (50) disposed within the housing; and a deodorizing device (200) disposed within the housing and configured to deodorize air blown by the blower fan; wherein the deodorizing device comprises a photocatalytic filter (260); and a light source (222) configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air; The light source may be electrically connected and positioned downstream of the photocatalytic filter, and may include the photocatalytic filter and an inclined light source substrate (221).

[0214] The above has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical ideas of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Housing; A blower fan disposed within the housing and moving air within the housing in a first direction; A filter device disposed within the housing and configured to filter air flowing in the first direction; A photocatalytic filter disposed within the housing; and A light source substrate is disposed within the housing and is electrically connected to a light source configured to irradiate light to the photocatalytic filter to deodorize air flowing in the first direction; An air conditioner in which the photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate are arranged in the first direction and are inclined to each other.

2. In paragraph 1, The above photocatalytic filter extends in the second direction, An air conditioner in which the light source substrate is arranged at an angle relative to the second direction.

3. In paragraph 2, The above photocatalytic filter opening; and comprising a plurality of filter parts configured to surround the above opening; An air conditioner comprising a plurality of light sources arranged along a plurality of filter sections.

4. In paragraph 3, Each of the above plurality of filter sections, A first stage adjacent to the above opening; and including a second stage further from the opening than the first stage; The above light source substrate is an air conditioner closer to the second stage than to the first stage.

5. In paragraph 4, An air conditioner in which the photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate are located downstream of the filter device.

6. In paragraph 5, An air conditioner in which the photocatalytic filter and the light source substrate are placed above the filter device.

7. In paragraph 6, The above second direction is a horizontal direction, The above light source substrate is an air conditioner inclined with respect to the horizontal direction.

8. In paragraph 7, The above light source substrate is placed on top of the photocatalytic filter, An air conditioner in which the light source substrate slopes downward toward the second stage of the plurality of filter sections.

9. In paragraph 8, An air conditioner in which the inclination angle of the light source substrate is less than or equal to half the maximum irradiation angle of the light source.

10. In paragraph 8, A light source mounting member disposed on the light source substrate and on which the light source substrate is mounted; A filter mounting member disposed below the light source substrate, covering the lower portion of the light source substrate, and having a plurality of holes corresponding to the plurality of light sources formed therein; and An air conditioner further comprising a filter case configured to combine the plurality of filter sections and fix the photocatalytic filter.

11. In paragraph 10, Further comprising a fan housing configured to accommodate the blower fan; An air conditioner in which the filter mounting member and the filter case are positioned below the fan housing.

12. In paragraph 11, The above filter device, A dust collecting electrode configured to capture aerosol from air introduced into the housing by the blower fan; A discharge electrode configured to generate ions and positioned upstream of the dust collecting electrode; An electric field induction electrode grounded to form an electric field with the discharge electrode and positioned upstream of the discharge electrode; and An air conditioner comprising a ground electrode positioned downstream of the discharge electrode and upstream of the dust collecting electrode so that the ions are attached.

13. In paragraph 12, The above housing, Page 1; A second side opposite to the first side; A third surface connecting the first surface and the second surface between the first surface and the second surface; and Between the first side and the second side, connecting the first side and the second side, and including a fourth side opposite the third side, An air conditioner in which suction ports are formed on the first surface, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface of the housing.

14. In paragraph 6, The above light source substrate is placed below the photocatalytic filter, An air conditioner in which the light source substrate slopes upward toward the second stage of the plurality of filter sections.

15. In paragraph 1, The above light source substrate extends in the horizontal direction, An air conditioner in which the photocatalytic filter is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the light source substrate.

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