Air conditioner and operation method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air conditioner for controlling cooling and heating temperatures on the basis of a position of an occupant, and to an operation method thereof. The air conditioner of the present invention comprises: a temperature sensor for measuring an indoor temperature of a space in which an indoor unit is installed; a human presence detection unit for calculating a position of the occupant in the space; a storage unit for storing the airflow velocity of the space set in the air conditioner; and a controller for calculating a predicted mean vote (PMV) at the position of the occupant by using the measured indoor temperature and the airflow velocity, and determining whether the calculated PMV is within a set comfort range.

Description

Air conditioner and its operating method

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an air conditioner that controls heating and cooling temperature based on the position of an occupant and an operating method thereof.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that cools and heats a room through the compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant to control the indoor temperature and purify the indoor air by discharging hot and cold air into the room to create a more comfortable indoor environment for the user.

[0003] Typically, if an air conditioner's outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser and its indoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator, the interior can be cooled. Alternatively, if an air conditioner's outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and its indoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, the interior can be heated.

[0004] Maintaining indoor occupants' comfort is crucial through heating and cooling control. Occupant comfort can vary in real time due to a combination of various thermal factors. The most representative thermal factor is indoor temperature.

[0005] Since the uniform temperature distributed within an indoor space has a significant impact on the comfort felt by occupants, it is necessary to evaluate the temperature distribution to create a comfortable indoor environment for occupants.

[0006] Conventional temperature distribution assessments were performed during the building design phase to determine optimal heating and cooling system design. However, these are fixed values, requiring real-time temperature distribution assessments to maintain occupant comfort.

[0007] In general, methods for evaluating temperature distribution require the installation of a large number of sensors to measure the temperature distribution of a building in real time, making it difficult to secure installation locations for the sensors and requiring a large number of sensors, which incurs high maintenance costs.

[0008] For example, Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0082764 (Prior Document 1) discloses a device and method for predicting the thermal environment of a space through machine learning by receiving temperature values ​​sensed from a plurality of indoor surface temperature sensors and outdoor air temperature sensors spaced apart from each other within a space.

[0009] However, the above prior art document 1 requires a large number of temperature sensors, making it difficult to secure an installation location and maintain it, and does not take into account the location of the occupants, making it impossible to provide optimal comfort to the occupants.

[0010] As another example, Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0049769 (Prior Document 2) discloses an air conditioner automatic control system that uses occupancy detection data to predict the user's future occupancy probability information, derives a sense of warmth using indoor temperature and humidity data detected by a sensor, and then calculates a temperature for optimal warmth to control the air conditioner.

[0011] However, prior literature 2 only checks whether there is an occupant and does not identify the location of the occupant, so there is a limit to providing optimal comfort to the occupant.

[0012] The present invention provides an air conditioner and an operating method thereof that provide optimal comfort to occupants by adjusting the set temperature of the air conditioner in response to the location of the occupants in an indoor space.

[0013] The present invention provides an air conditioner and an operating method thereof that calculates the comfort level of an occupant in real time according to the location of the occupant.

[0014] The present invention provides an air conditioner and an operating method thereof that adjusts a set temperature so that the comfort level is within a comfortable range based on the current comfort level of an occupant.

[0015] The present invention provides an air conditioner and an operating method thereof that provide optimal comfort to occupants by calculating PMV suitable for the size of an indoor space and the model of the air conditioner.

[0016] The present invention provides an air conditioner and an operating method thereof that transmits setting information, operation information, status information, etc. of the air conditioner to a user terminal to provide optimal comfort to occupants.

[0017] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to operate a refrigeration cycle when operation is started so that air is discharged into an indoor space at a set air volume through heat exchange.

[0018] An air conditioner may consist of an indoor unit installed in an indoor space and an outdoor unit that delivers refrigerant to the indoor unit.

[0019] The air conditioner measures the indoor temperature of the space where the indoor unit is installed.

[0020] The air conditioner measures the location of occupants in the space through a human body detection unit, and measures the activity level of occupants based on their location.

[0021] The storage unit of the air conditioner stores the size of the air conditioner and the space, as well as the airflow speed (velocity) for each zone.

[0022] The controller calculates the predicted mean vote (PMV) at the occupant's location using the measured indoor temperature and the airflow speed in each zone of the space.

[0023] The controller maintains the current driving state if the PMV is within the comfortable range, and changes the current driving state if it is outside the comfortable range.

[0024] In air conditioners, the activity level of occupants can be calculated based on their location.

[0025] At this time, the controller calculates PMV based on the activity level of the occupant. The controller calculates PMV by assigning different weights to the indoor temperature and airflow speed based on the activity level of the occupant.

[0026] Here, the controller can give a relatively larger weight as the activity of the occupant increases.

[0027] The above comfort range can be a PMV of 0. Alternatively, considering that each occupant may experience different levels of comfort, the comfort range can be a PMV of, for example, 0±0.5. Of course, the comfort range can be changed.

[0028] If the generated PMV is out of the comfort range, the controller can change the set temperature of the air conditioner.

[0029] In this case, the controller can change the set temperature stepwise from the existing set temperature to the first set temperature according to the human body acclimation time.

[0030] In this embodiment, the set temperature is changed in steps up to the first set temperature by changing the set temperature in 0.5℃ units according to the human body acclimation time.

[0031] When the indoor temperature reaches the first set temperature, the controller changes the set temperature in stages from the first set temperature to the second set temperature according to the human body acclimation time.

[0032] In this embodiment, the set temperature is changed in steps from the first set temperature to the second set temperature in 0.5℃ units according to the human body acclimation time.

[0033] When the indoor temperature reaches the second set temperature, the controller changes the set temperature between the first set temperature and the second set temperature in 0.5℃ units according to the human body acclimation time, and repeats the increase and decrease.

[0034] An air conditioner and its operating method according to an embodiment of the present invention have one or more of the following effects.

[0035] According to the present invention, temperature and airflow are adjusted in response to the location of the occupant, thereby providing the occupant with optimal comfort.

[0036] According to the present invention, it is possible to check the comfort of occupants in an indoor space and control the set temperature so that the occupants are within a comfortable range.

[0037] According to the present invention, PMV suitable for the size of the indoor space and the model of the air conditioner can be calculated, thereby providing optimal comfort to occupants.

[0038] According to the present invention, setting information, operation information, status information, etc. of an air conditioner for providing optimal comfort to occupants are transmitted to a user terminal, thereby allowing the user to check the relevant information.

[0039] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram of a space in which an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed.

[0040] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the cooling and heating operation of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a system showing the configuration of devices communicating with an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figures 4 and 5 are schematic drawings showing the appearance of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 6 is an internal block diagram showing the control relationship between the main components of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 7 is an example of human adaptation time according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 8 is a drawing for reference in explaining a driving mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram for explaining changes in set temperature in a comfortable driving mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of detecting the position and distance of an occupant by human body detection in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an example of setting an indoor area into multiple division areas according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 12 is a drawing explaining an example of calculating the movement distance of a person in the room in Figure 11.

[0050] Figure 13 is a drawing explaining an example of calculating the activity level of a person in the room in Figure 12.

[0051] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of calculating the movement distance of one person in Figure 11.

[0052] Figure 15 is a drawing showing an example of calculating the movement distance of two or more people in Figure 11.

[0053] Figure 16 is a drawing showing an example of no movement distance for 1 to 3 people in Figure 11.

[0054] Figure 17 is a diagram showing airflow speeds set for each occupant position in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 18 is an example diagram of the wind direction and blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in the direct wind operation mode in the fast section.

[0056] Figure 19 is an example diagram of the wind direction and blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in an indirect wind operation mode in a comfort zone.

[0057] Figure 20 is an example diagram of the wind direction and blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention operates in the indirect wind operation mode in the comfort zone.

[0058] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an operating method of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation method in a comfortable operation mode in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 23 is a flowchart showing an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figures 24 to 27 are drawings explaining the process of calculating the temperature and wind speed at the occupant location in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 28 is an example diagram explaining information displayed on a display of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 29 is another example diagram illustrating information displayed on a display of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram of a space in which an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed.

[0066] Referring to Fig. 1, an air conditioner (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed in a certain space (S) indoors.

[0067] An air conditioner (100) may include an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit may be installed in an indoor space (S) to discharge air, and the outdoor unit may supply refrigerant to the indoor unit.

[0068] The air conditioner (100) can be operated in cooling mode or heating mode by supplying refrigerant from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit according to the operating state requested by the user.

[0069] An air conditioner (100) can provide comfort to occupants (P) by discharging cooling or heating air into a space (S) according to the internal temperature of the space (S).

[0070] The air conditioner (100) may have various forms. For example, it may be a ceiling-mounted type installed on the ceiling, a wall-mounted type installed on the wall, or a stand-type installed vertically on the floor.

[0071] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the cooling and heating operation of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 2, the air conditioner (100) may have an indoor unit (10) and an outdoor unit (20) that are connected to each other by a refrigerant pipe.

[0073] In the drawing, for example, only one indoor unit (10) is connected to an outdoor unit (20), but of course, in other embodiments, two or more indoor units (10) may be connected to one outdoor unit (20).

[0074] The outdoor unit (20) may be equipped with a compressor (1), an oil separator (2), a switching valve (3), an outdoor heat exchanger (4), an outdoor expansion valve (E2), and an accumulator (6), and the indoor unit (10) may be equipped with an indoor heat exchanger (5) and an indoor expansion valve (E1).

[0075] A controller (330 in FIG. 6) for operating an air conditioner (100) may be provided.

[0076] The controller (330) is electrically connected to each component of the air conditioner (100) and can control the operation of the components of the air conditioner (100) to perform heating operation or cooling operation.

[0077] First, when a heating operation signal is input to the air conditioner (100), the controller (330) can perform heating operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0078] In the case of heating operation, the low-temperature / low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor (1) from the accumulator (6) can be compressed to high-temperature / high-pressure in the compressor (1) and discharged to the oil separator (2).

[0079] Refrigerant from which oil is separated in the oil separator (2) can flow into the indoor heat exchanger (5) through the switching valve (3) and the first servo valve (SV1). At this time, the indoor expansion valve (E1) can open the refrigerant flow path that passes through the indoor heat exchanger (5) and leads to the outdoor heat exchanger (4).

[0080] As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the indoor air in the indoor heat exchanger (5), the refrigerant can be condensed. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger (5) can function as a condenser.

[0081] Accordingly, the indoor space (S) can be heated by the operation of the indoor blower fan (7) as heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant and the indoor air.

[0082] And, the refrigerant that has condensed while passing through the indoor heat exchanger (5) can pass through the indoor expansion valve (E) and the second servo valve (SV2) to the outdoor expansion valve (E2). The refrigerant that has expanded while passing through the outdoor expansion valve (E2) can be distributed to multiple points of the outdoor heat exchanger (4) through the distributor (41).

[0083] As the heat energy of the outdoor air is transferred to the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger (4), the refrigerant can evaporate. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can function as an evaporator. The refrigerant that has evaporated while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can be introduced into the compressor (1) through the header (42), the switching valve (3), and the accumulator (6) in sequence.

[0084] The heating operation of the air conditioner can be carried out by this refrigerant cycle.

[0085] Additionally, when a cooling operation signal is input to the air conditioner (100), the controller (330) can perform cooling operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0086] In the case of cooling operation, the low-temperature / low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the compressor (1) from the accumulator (6) can be compressed to high-temperature / high-pressure in the compressor (1) and discharged to the oil separator (2).

[0087] The refrigerant from which oil is separated in the oil separator (2) can be introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger (4) through the switching valve (3) and header (42).

[0088] As heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant to the outdoor air in the outdoor heat exchanger (4), the refrigerant can be condensed. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can function as a condenser.

[0089] The refrigerant condensed while passing through the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can flow into the indoor expansion valve (E1) through the distributor (41), the outdoor expansion valve (E2), and the second servo valve (SV2) in sequence. At this time, the outdoor expansion valve (E2) can fully open the flow path.

[0090] And, the refrigerant expanded through the indoor expansion valve (E1) can be introduced into the indoor heat exchanger (5).

[0091] As the heat energy of indoor air is transferred to the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger (5), the refrigerant can evaporate. At this time, the indoor heat exchanger (5) can function as an evaporator.

[0092] Accordingly, the indoor space (S) can be cooled by the operation of the indoor blower fan (7) as heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant and the indoor air.

[0093] And, the refrigerant that has evaporated while passing through the indoor heat exchanger (5) can be introduced into the compressor (1) through the first servo valve (SV1), the switching valve (3), and the accumulator (6) in sequence.

[0094] The cooling operation of the air conditioner can be performed by this refrigerant cycle.

[0095] Here, since the direction of flow of the refrigerant is different depending on whether the air conditioner (10) is in cooling or heating operation, the meaning of "inlet side" and "outlet side" of the indoor heat exchanger (5) may vary depending on cooling or heating operation. For convenience of explanation, the present embodiment is based on the case where the air conditioner (100) is in cooling operation.

[0096] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a system showing the configuration of devices communicating with an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 3, the air conditioner (100) is equipped with a communication module and is capable of communicating with a user terminal (120) and a server (140).

[0098] The air conditioner (100) can communicate directly with a user terminal (120) and can also communicate with a user terminal (120) and a server (140) by connecting to a network (130) through an access point (AP) (110).

[0099] The user terminal (120) is a device equipped with a communication function and can communicate with the air conditioner (100) and the server (140).

[0100] The user terminal (120) can communicate with the server (140) through a network (130), such as LTE or 5G.

[0101] The user terminal (120) may communicate with the air conditioner (100) through the AP device (110) using, for example, Wi-Fi communication, and may also communicate with the air conditioner (100) through the server (140) using the network (130).

[0102] The user terminal (120) may also communicate directly with the air conditioner (100) using, for example, Bluetooth communication.

[0103] The user terminal (120) may have a program or dedicated application (hereinafter referred to as a ‘dedicated app’ or ‘ThinQ app’) installed to operate and control the air conditioner (100).

[0104] The user terminal (120) can transmit control commands according to operation to the air conditioner (100) by executing a dedicated app and can receive data from the air conditioner (100).

[0105] In this embodiment, the user terminal (120) may be an electronic device such as a smartphone, tablet, PDA, computer, laptop, etc., and a wearable device such as a smart watch may also be used.

[0106] The user terminal (120) can register the air conditioner (100) in the server (140) by transmitting the unique information of the air conditioner (100) to the server (140).

[0107] The user terminal (120) may include a display capable of displaying various data, information, images, and videos.

[0108] Such displays may be implemented as, for example, LCD displays, OLED displays, AMOLED displays, Super AMOLED displays, Retina displays, etc.

[0109] The user terminal (120) can receive and display a web page or application screen containing information about the air conditioner (100) from the server (140).

[0110] The user terminal (120) can receive setting information, operation information, status information, etc. of the air conditioner (100) from the air conditioner (100) and / or the server (140) and display them on the screen.

[0111] Information about the indoor space where the air conditioner (100) of the user terminal (120) is installed can also be received from the air conditioner (100) and / or the server (140) and displayed on the screen.

[0112] The server (140) can communicate with the air conditioner (100) and the user terminal (120) to receive and store information and respond with information requested from the user terminal (120).

[0113] The server (140) can receive a control command for the operation of the air conditioner (100) requested from the user terminal (120) and control the operation of the air conditioner (100) according to the control command.

[0114] The server (140) stores information of the air conditioner (100) registered by the user terminal (120) in a database (not shown) and receives data transmitted in real time from the air conditioner (100) to update information of the air conditioner (100) in real time.

[0115] The server (140) may be implemented as a single device, or may be implemented as a distributed processing system in which multiple server devices are interconnected and the requested data is distributed and processed by the multiple server devices.

[0116] The server (140) may be a cloud service-based server system or a web server. Accordingly, data related to a web page screen related to the air conditioner (100) may be provided to the user terminal (120).

[0117] The server (140) can store firmware information and operation information for the air conditioner (100) and register product information for the air conditioner (100).

[0118] The server (140) may be a server operated by a manufacturer of the air conditioner (100) or a home appliance manufacturer, or may be a server operated by an operator of a public application store or a service provider providing services related to the air conditioner (100).

[0119] Figures 4 and 5 are drawings briefly illustrating the exterior of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] For convenience of explanation, the drawings illustrate an indoor unit of a stand-alone air conditioner (100) as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that, in addition to the stand-alone air conditioner as described above, a wall-mounted air conditioner or a ceiling-mounted air conditioner may also be included in the air conditioner (100) according to the present invention.

[0121] The air conditioner (100) of the present invention may include an indoor unit (10) and an outdoor unit (20). The indoor unit (10) is installed in an indoor space (S) to discharge air into the space (S), and the outdoor unit (20) supplies refrigerant to the indoor unit (20).

[0122] The air conditioner (100) can perform cooling and heating operations depending on the operation mode.

[0123] Looking at the drawing, a front discharge port (111) can be formed on the front of the air conditioner (100), and side discharge ports (112) can be formed on the left and right sides, respectively.

[0124] Air can be discharged from the inside of the air conditioner (100) into the room through the front discharge port (111) and the side discharge port (121).

[0125] Various components (not shown) for operating various unique functions and additional functions of the air conditioner (100) may be built into the interior of the air conditioner (100).

[0126] The front panel (11) forms the front of the air conditioner (100), and the front outlet (111) can be formed at an upper position of the front panel (11).

[0127] The front door module (12) can open and close the front exhaust port (111) formed on the front panel (14) and change the direction of the airflow discharged through the front exhaust port (111).

[0128] The front door module (12) can be configured to reciprocate in the forward and backward direction between the rearmost position that closes the air path discharged through the front exhaust port (111) and the forwardmost position that forms a forward-directed airflow.

[0129] The blowing mode that generates a forward-directed airflow with the front door module (12) protruding to the forwardmost position can be defined as a direct wind mode to distinguish it from the indirect wind mode described later.

[0130] An outer panel (112) may be placed on the front side of the front outlet (111). This outer panel (112) is formed of a translucent material, and light generated by a display unit (not shown) provided on the inside can be irradiated to the outside through the outer panel (211).

[0131] The outer panel (121) can function as a display that provides the user with information about the operating status of the air conditioner (100), the surrounding air quality, etc.

[0132] The display (116) may be formed separately from the outer panel (112).

[0133] The display (116) can display the operating status of the air conditioner (100), etc.

[0134] Side door modules (13) may be provided on both sides of the air conditioner (100), and each side door module (13) may be provided with a side door (131).

[0135] The side door (131) can open and close the side outlet (121). To this end, the side door (131) can be configured to move in the forward and backward direction of the air conditioner (100).

[0136] Accordingly, when the side door (131) is in a forward-moving state as shown in FIG. 4, the side discharge port (121) can be closed, and conversely, when the side door (131) is in a backward-moving state as shown in FIG. 5, the side discharge port (121) can be opened.

[0137] In order to discharge air through the side discharge port (121), the side door (131) is operated to open the side discharge port (121), thereby allowing the air inside to be discharged to the outside through the side discharge port (121).

[0138] If air is not discharged through the side exhaust port (121), the side exhaust port (121) is closed by the side door (131), so that the phenomenon of fine dust, etc. being introduced through the side exhaust port (121) and foreign substances that may become stuck inside or cause a malfunction can be effectively prevented.

[0139] The side door (131) and the side outlet (121) can be arranged on the side of the air conditioner (100), and preferably, can be provided on both sides, i.e., on the left and right sides, respectively.

[0140] The air conditioner (100) can be operated in a direct wind mode in which the discharged air is discharged to a long distance in the front, or in an indirect wind mode in which the air is discharged radially outward from the front discharge port (111).

[0141] A vane module (not shown) may be installed on the inside of the front panel (11). This vane module can change the direction of the airflow discharged through the side outlet (121). In particular, it can change the forward-directed airflow into the side-directed airflow.

[0142] The direction of the forward-facing airflow can be changed by plate-shaped vanes (132a, 132b) arranged adjacent to the front side of the side discharge port (121).

[0143] By the operation of these vanes (132a, 132b), the air conditioner (100) can be switched from direct wind mode to indirect wind mode.

[0144] When the vanes (132a, 132b) operate, the air discharged through the side discharge port (121) is resisted by the vanes (132a, 132b), and in particular, the air passing through the front end of the side discharge port (121) directly collides with the vanes (132a, 132b), and its direction of movement can be changed.

[0145] As a result, the air flow of the discharged air is converted as a whole, and the air conditioner (100) can be switched from direct wind mode to indirect wind mode.

[0146] A plurality of side vanes (133a, 133b) may be arranged in the side discharge port (121) to guide the flow direction of the discharged air when the air of the lateral directional flow is discharged.

[0147] The air conditioner (100) may include a camera (115) that captures an image of the interior of the room and a display (116) that visually provides information about the air conditioner (100).

[0148] FIG. 6 is an internal block diagram illustrating the control relationship between main components of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 6, an air conditioner (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include an input unit (311), a communication unit (312), a storage unit (313), a microphone (314), a sensor unit (315), a driving unit (314), an output unit (317), a movement distance calculation unit (318), an activity calculation unit (319), a camera (115), a display (116), and a controller (330).

[0150] The controller (330) can control the overall operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0151] The input unit (311) can receive data on the operation mode, set temperature, target temperature, wind volume, wind speed, etc. of the air conditioner (100) and transmit the data to the controller (330).

[0152] The input unit (311) may include at least one switch or button, or may be configured as a touch-operable touch key, touchpad, or touch screen, and may receive data through button operation or touch input.

[0153] The communication unit (312) can communicate with other electronic devices through wired / wireless communication.

[0154] The communication unit (312) is equipped with one or more communication modules and can communicate with the user terminal (120) and the server (140) to exchange various signals.

[0155] The storage unit (313) can store information, data, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0156] The storage unit (313) can store human body adaptation time, cooling speed, heating speed, user control input information, other algorithms, etc.

[0157] The storage unit (313) can store the initial target temperature of the power saving operation mode.

[0158] The storage unit (313) may store information on multiple segmented areas, the location of a detected occupant (hereinafter referred to as “occupant location”), mapping information between segmented areas and occupant locations, etc.

[0159] The storage unit (313) can store information on the air flow rate (air velocity) of the air conditioner (100) for the divided area. The air flow rate (air velocity) can vary depending on the model of the air conditioner (100), the size of the installed space (S), and the location of the room.

[0160] For example, when a specific model of air conditioner (100) is installed in a space (S) of a specific size, the airflow speed for each occupant location is determined in advance and stored in the storage unit (313).

[0161] The storage unit (313) may include a volatile or non-volatile recording medium.

[0162] A recording medium is a device that stores data that can be read by a microprocessor, and may include a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), a silicon disk drive (SDD), a ROM, a RAM, a CD-ROM, an optical data storage device, etc.

[0163] The driving unit (314) can be driven according to a control command of the controller (330).

[0164] The driving unit (314) can control the rotation of the motor connected to the blower fan to control the amount of air discharged into the room.

[0165] The driving unit (314) can control the driving of the heat exchanger to evaporate or condense the refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger to exchange heat with the surrounding air.

[0166] The driving unit (314) can also control the amount and speed of airflow by adjusting the rotation speed of the blower fan.

[0167] The driving unit (314) can drive the vanes (132a, 132b) under the control of the controller (330) to adjust the direction (air flow) of air discharged into the room up, down, left, and right.

[0168] The wind direction of the air discharged through the front discharge port (111) and the side discharge port (121) can be controlled by driving the vanes (132a, 132b).

[0169] The driving unit (314) can control the blowing direction and blowing range of the discharged air.

[0170] For example, the vanes (132a, 132b) may be fixed to face one direction so that air is blown in one direction, or the direction of the vanes (132a, 132b) may be continuously changed within a set range by performing a motion (hereinafter referred to as a “swing motion”) so that air is blown within a set range by continuously changing the air blowing direction within the set range.

[0171] Additionally, the range of angles at which the swing motion of the vane (132a, 132b) occurs can be adjusted to narrow or widen the range at which the wind is blown.

[0172] Meanwhile, inside the air conditioner (100), a fan is installed to control the flow of indoor air sucked in through the intake port and discharged into the indoor space (S) through the front outlet (111) and / or the side outlet (121). The rotation of the fan is controlled by a fan driving unit, and the operation of the fan driving unit can be controlled by a controller (330).

[0173] Accordingly, the controller (330) can control the direction of the flow (air current) of air discharged from the air conditioner (100) by controlling the driving unit and the fan driving unit.

[0174] The controller (330) can control the amount and speed of airflow by controlling the speed of the fan motor, and can control the direction of airflow by controlling the vane.

[0175] The air conditioner (100) may include a microphone (MIC) (315) that can receive external audio signals and user voice commands.

[0176] The air conditioner (100) may include a sensor unit (316) that measures various types of information.

[0177] The sensor unit (316) may be equipped with, for example, a temperature sensor for measuring indoor temperature, a humidity sensor for measuring indoor humidity, a dust sensor for measuring indoor air quality, etc. Of course, sensors for measuring outdoor temperature, humidity, and air quality may also be equipped.

[0178] Additionally, the sensor unit (316) may include a radar sensor capable of detecting a person (P) within a space (S). Such a radar sensor may also detect the location of the person.

[0179] The radar sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver, and a signal transmitted from the transmitter is reflected by an occupant and received by the receiver.

[0180] In the receiving unit, the received signal is converted into digital information and input to the controller (330), and the controller (330) detects the occupant (P) based on the digital information and calculates the occupant location.

[0181] The location of the occupant (P) in the controller (330) may include information on the distance and direction (angle) to the occupant (P) based on the air conditioner (100).

[0182] The controller (140) can use the distance and direction (angle) information of the above-mentioned occupant (P) to calculate the (X, Y) coordinate values ​​of a two-dimensional coordinate system with the air conditioner (100) as the origin.

[0183] The controller (330) can control the operation of the air conditioner (100) based on the measurement value measured by the sensor unit (316).

[0184] The air conditioner (100) may include an output unit (317) that outputs an audio signal.

[0185] The output unit (317) can output audio information such as warning sounds, operation modes, operation statuses, error statuses, etc., information corresponding to user command inputs, processing results corresponding to user command inputs, etc., under the control of the controller (330).

[0186] The output unit (317) can convert an electric signal from the controller (330) into an audio signal and output it.

[0187] The output unit (317) may include a speaker and may be appropriately placed on the front or side of the air conditioner (100).

[0188] A display (116) may be installed on the front of the air conditioner (100).

[0189] The display (116) can display various information including status information, temperature information, operation information, and operation information of the air conditioner (100).

[0190] The display (116) may be configured as a touch screen by forming a mutual layer structure with the touchpad. In this case, the display (116) may be used as an input device that allows the user to input information by touch in addition to being an output device.

[0191] The air conditioner (100) may include a camera (115) capable of photographing the surroundings.

[0192] The camera (115) may include an image sensor (e.g., CMOS image sensor) including an optical lens and a photodiode, and a digital signal processor (DSP: Digital Signal Processor) that constructs an image from a signal output from the photodiode.

[0193] Digital signal processors can generate not only still images but also moving images made up of frames of still images.

[0194] The video captured by the camera (115) can be stored in the storage unit (313).

[0195] The controller (330) can identify the presence of a person in a room and a user within a certain space based on the image captured by the camera (115).

[0196] The camera (115) can be driven to rotate according to the control command of the controller (330), and can scan the indoor area even while rotating.

[0197] The mapping unit (322) uses the occupancy location detected by the sensor unit (316) or camera (115) (hereinafter referred to as the human body detection unit) to map it to a preset segmented area. Here, a plurality of areas that are divided according to the location and distance of the indoor area that can be detected by the human body detection unit are referred to as segmented areas.

[0198] When the human body detection unit detects the occupancy location at set intervals, the mapping unit (322) can map the detected occupancy location to the plurality of divided areas. This makes it possible to determine in which of the plurality of divided areas the occupant is present.

[0199] Information about the segmented area is stored in advance in the storage unit (313), and information (mapping information) according to the mapping of the detected location and the segmented area for each period by the mapping unit (322) is also stored. This mapping process is described in detail below.

[0200] The movement distance calculation unit (318) calculates the movement distance of the occupant. When the occupant's location is mapped to a specific segment among multiple segments for each cycle, the distance between the segment mapped in the previous cycle and the segment mapped in the current cycle is used to calculate the occupant's movement distance. This movement distance can be calculated for each cycle.

[0201] The activity calculation unit (319) calculates the activity of the occupant using the movement distance of the occupant calculated for each cycle as described above. Specifically, the movement distance calculated for each cycle for a set period of time is added up to calculate the activity amount based on the total accumulated movement distance for the set period of time.

[0202] The air volume control unit (320) can control the air volume discharged through the front discharge port (111) and the side discharge unit (121). This air volume control can be determined by the rotation speed of the blower fan.

[0203] The wind direction control unit (321) can control the direction of the discharged air by operating the vanes (132a, 132b).

[0204] The wind direction control unit (321) can control the opening and closing of the left discharge port, right discharge port, and front discharge port according to the control command of the controller (330) to adjust the direction of the air.

[0205] When the location of the room is detected, the controller (330) can control the operation of the air volume control unit (320) and the air direction control unit (321) so that air is discharged according to the location of the room.

[0206] When the blowing mode is set to direct wind mode, the controller (330) controls the wind direction control unit (321) so that the discharged air is directed toward the occupant location. Conversely, when the indirect wind mode is set to indirect wind mode, the controller (321) controls the wind direction control unit (321) so that the air is directed toward a location other than the occupant location.

[0207] The controller (330) may also control the operation of the wind volume control unit (320) depending on whether the detected occupancy location is a long distance, a medium distance, or a short distance. For example, if the occupancy location is detected as a long distance, the wind may be blown with a strong wind, and if the occupancy location is detected as a short distance, the wind may be blown with a weak wind.

[0208] In this way, the controller (330) controls the operation of the wind volume control unit (320) and the wind direction control unit (321) in response to the detected occupancy location and blowing mode, etc., thereby causing air to be discharged at an appropriate wind volume and wind speed.

[0209] When the controller (330) receives information on the activity level of the occupant calculated from the activity level calculation unit (319) while air is being discharged, the controller (330) can control the air volume control unit (320) to readjust the air volume according to the activity level.

[0210] This is to adjust the wind speed according to the activity level of the occupant. As activity level increases, stronger wind is needed, and the wind speed is increased accordingly.

[0211] The controller (330) can calculate the predicted mean vote (PMV) at the occupant location based on the indoor temperature and air flow velocity (air velocity) at the occupant location. The controller (330) can adjust the set temperature and air flow so that the calculated PMV converges to 0 (zero).

[0212] The air conditioner (100) can be operated according to multiple operating modes.

[0213] The driving modes may include a rapid driving mode (rapid cooling) that prioritizes cooling, a driving mode (comfort cooling) that prioritizes comfort, and a power-saving driving mode (power-saving cooling) that prioritizes energy saving.

[0214] The controller (330) can control the driving unit (314) according to the selected driving mode.

[0215] For example, the controller (330) can control the rotation speed of the blower fan by controlling the driving unit (314) according to the selected driving mode, thereby controlling the wind volume.

[0216] The controller (330) can process a user's voice signal input through a microphone (315) and perform voice recognition.

[0217] The controller (330) can process the user's simple voice signal on its own and request and receive complex voice signals that it cannot process on its own from the server (140).

[0218] When a control signal is received through the communication unit (312), the controller (330) can control the air conditioner (100) to operate according to the control signal.

[0219] The controller (330) can calculate the temperature and wind speed at the occupant location based on the distance and direction (angle) from the occupant location, i.e., the air conditioner (100), as well as the indoor temperature, wind speed, wind direction, and blowing mode measured by the temperature sensor.

[0220] In one embodiment, the controller (330) may transmit the indoor temperature, wind speed, and wind direction information, and the temperature and wind speed information of the calculated occupant location, along with PMV information, to the server (140) via the communication unit (312). In this case, the server (140) may transmit the information to the user terminal (120).

[0221] In another embodiment, the controller (300) may directly transmit the above information to the user terminal (120) via the communication unit (312).

[0222] The user terminal (120) can display the above information received from the air conditioner (100) and / or the server (140) on the screen.

[0223] For example, the user terminal (120) can display information such as indoor temperature, wind speed and direction of the air conditioner (100), temperature and wind speed of the occupant location, PMV, etc. on the screen.

[0224] The air conditioner (100) can display information corresponding to a user's control command, processing results corresponding to the user's control command, operation mode, operation status, error status, etc. on the display (116).

[0225] The air conditioner (100) can also operate according to input from a remote control device.

[0226] For example, the air conditioner (100) can receive a signal input through a wired or wireless remote control or a user terminal (120) and perform an operation corresponding to the signal.

[0227] The air conditioner (100) may also include a timer (not shown).

[0228] A timer can set a time, count the set time, and detect the elapsed time. The operation of the timer can be controlled by a controller (330).

[0229] The air conditioner (100) can perform an operation to adjust the indoor temperature to the set temperature when the set temperature is set. When the indoor temperature is adjusted to the set temperature, the human body requires time to adapt to the set temperature, i.e., the human body adaptation time. The human body adaptation time is set for each set temperature.

[0230] The human body acclimation time is pre-stored in the storage unit (313). When the indoor temperature reaches the set temperature, the set time is maintained for the human body acclimation time. After the human body acclimation time elapses, the set temperature is reset by increasing by the set unit temperature. In this embodiment, the human body acclimation time is divided into 0.5℃ units.

[0231] Figure 7 illustrates an example of human adaptation time according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0232] Referring to Figure 7, the human body adaptation time of the present invention is set in units of 0.5℃. That is, the human body adaptation time is set for each set temperature in units of 0.5℃.

[0233] As an example of the drawing, the human body acclimation time is set for each set temperature in 0.5℃ units, such as 10 minutes at a set temperature of 22℃, 11 minutes at a set temperature of 22.5℃, and 12 minutes at a set temperature of 23℃.

[0234] As an example, Fig. 7 shows the human body adaptation time from the set temperature of 22℃ to 28℃.

[0235] For example, if the set temperature is set to 22℃, the set temperature is reset to 22.5℃, an increase of 0.5℃, after 10 minutes, which is the human body acclimation time. Afterwards, if it is set to 22.5℃, the corresponding human body acclimation time of 11 minutes is elapsed, and then it is reset to 23℃. In this way, the human body acclimation time is set in 0.5℃ units.

[0236] This feature distinguishes it from conventional air conditioners, which set the human body acclimation time for each set temperature in 1℃ increments.

[0237] In these conventional cases, there was a problem in which the air conditioner temporarily turned off due to the difference between the indoor temperature and the set temperature, which was called a thermo-off phenomenon.

[0238] The thermo off phenomenon occurs when the set temperature is higher than the room temperature.

[0239] For example, assuming that the set temperature is changed stepwise from 26℃ to 28℃ when operating in power saving mode, when the set temperature changes from 26℃ to 27℃ after the human body acclimatization time has passed, the indoor temperature is 26℃, so the set temperature is 1℃ higher than the indoor temperature, and the air conditioner temporarily stops, causing a thermo-off phenomenon.

[0240] This thermo off continues until the room temperature reaches 26℃ to 27℃.

[0241] However, in the present invention, the human body adaptation time is set in 0.5℃ units, so under the same conditions as above, the thermo off is maintained only until the indoor temperature increases from 26℃ to 26.5℃. In other words, in the present invention, the thermo off time can be made very short.

[0242] If the thermo-off time is prolonged, the humidity in the room may increase rapidly as steam may flow into the indoor unit due to the cooled water in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.

[0243] Therefore, conventional air conditioners are very likely to cause a rapid increase in indoor humidity, and it has been confirmed that this phenomenon actually occurs in air conditioner products.

[0244] However, since the air conditioner of the present invention has a very short thermo-off time, the air conditioner can be operated again before the humidity in the room increases, thereby preventing or minimizing the increase in humidity.

[0245] The human body acclimation time may be preset during the manufacturing of the air conditioner (100). Alternatively, the user may set and change the time through the input unit (311) and display (116) of the air conditioner (100). Alternatively, the user may set and change the time through a dedicated app on the user terminal (120).

[0246] The controller (330) may have various expandability in addition to the above functions and operations.

[0247] The controller (330) can be applied to the control function of the air conditioner based on information transmitted and received through communication with various external devices as well as its own control functions for devices inside the air conditioner.

[0248] The air conditioner can be equipped with a communication module capable of 5th generation (5G) internet communication, and can be designed to communicate with other external devices, such as refrigerators, air purifiers, LED modules, electric rice cookers, and other electronic products, as well as smart devices, automobiles, and servers of external organizations.

[0249] It is possible to receive various information necessary for air conditioning from these electronic products, other devices, or servers, and operate the air conditioner according to the received information.

[0250] For example, the air conditioner can connect to the Korea Meteorological Administration server via 5G Internet to check weather information, and if there is a rain forecast, the controller (230) can operate to automatically execute the dehumidification function at a set time.

[0251] FIG. 8 is a drawing for reference in explaining a driving mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 8, the air conditioner (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention can operate in multiple operating modes. For example, it can operate in a rapid cooling operating mode and a comfortable cooling operating mode.

[0253] The rapid cooling operation mode can be referred to as the rapid section, and the comfortable cooling operation mode can be referred to as the comfortable section.

[0254] In this embodiment, a rapid section or rapid cooling operation mode may mean a section or operation mode that performs rapid cooling to a preset initial temperature.

[0255] In this embodiment, the comfort section or comfort cooling operation mode may mean a section or operation mode in which cooling is performed by changing the set temperature after the human body acclimatization time, which is the time during which the human body begins to feel discomfort when a predetermined temperature is continuously maintained, has elapsed.

[0256] The rapid cooling operation mode and the comfortable cooling operation mode can be performed sequentially. For example, the air conditioner (100) can be operated in the rapid cooling operation mode and then in the comfortable cooling operation mode.

[0257] The method of automatically switching to the comfortable cooling mode after operating in the rapid cooling mode can be called the automatic driving mode.

[0258] In the fast section during automatic driving mode, the air conditioner (100) operates with cool power at the target temperature (e.g., 18°C) set internally regardless of the set temperature, and in the comfortable section thereafter, it operates to maintain the user's set temperature (Ts) (e.g., 26°C).

[0259] The rapid section aims to achieve the highest cooling speed. Therefore, the rapid section is set to operate at 18°C ​​(61°F), which may be inconvenient for users who dislike rapid cooling.

[0260] Power Wind operation not only operates at the lowest temperature but also allows for maximum airflow. The airflow direction can also be adjusted to rapidly cool the entire space.

[0261] Accordingly, when operating at 18℃ power wind, there is a concern that excessive energy waste may occur when the cooling load is high due to maximum power consumption.

[0262] Therefore, for users who want to save energy during rapid cooling, customized controls that provide effective energy-saving functions are needed.

[0263] This energy-saving feature may also be required in the fast section. That is, even during cooling operation according to the user's set temperature (Ts) in the fast section, customized control for the energy-saving feature may be required.

[0264] Accordingly, in the air conditioner (100) of the present invention, the power-saving operation mode can be selected in each of the fast section and the comfortable section.

[0265] The power saving operation mode can be input through the input unit (311), can be input by touch operation of the display (116), or can be input from the user terminal (120).

[0266] When the power saving operation mode is entered, the controller (330) can control the air conditioner (100) to perform an operation corresponding to the power saving function.

[0267] Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram for explaining changes in set temperature in a comfortable driving mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0268] FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, so the numerical values ​​or values ​​described in the drawing are merely examples described for the convenience of explanation, and can naturally be changed to other numerical values ​​or values.

[0269] The example in Fig. 9 is an example of entering the comfort operation mode while the existing set temperature is 24℃ and the set temperature is changed to 26℃.

[0270] When entering the comfort operation mode during cooling operation at the existing set temperature of 24℃, the set temperature gradually increases from the existing set temperature of 24℃ to 26℃ in 0.5℃ increments based on the human body acclimation time.

[0271] When the indoor temperature rises to 26℃, the set temperature is gradually changed to 28℃ by increasing in 0.5℃ increments based on the human body acclimation time from 26℃ to 28℃.

[0272] When the indoor temperature rises from 26℃ to 28℃, the set temperature is changed in 0.5℃ increments between 26℃ and 28℃ based on the human body acclimation time, and the temperature rises and falls repeatedly.

[0273] That is, the process of decreasing from 28℃ to 26℃ in 0.5-degree increments and then increasing again from 26℃ to 28℃ in 0.5-degree increments is repeated.

[0274] As previously stated, in one embodiment, the temperatures were exemplarily set to 24°C, 26°C, and 28°C, but these temperatures can of course be changed.

[0275] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an example of detecting the location and distance of an occupant by human body detection in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0276] Referring to Fig. 10, the human body detection unit detects the location of an occupant (P) existing in an indoor area.

[0277] In direct wind mode, adjust the wind direction so that air is delivered to the occupant position, and in indirect wind mode, adjust the wind direction so that air is delivered while avoiding the occupant position.

[0278] If the person is far away, the wind volume can be adjusted to be stronger, and if the person is close, the wind volume can be adjusted to be weaker.

[0279] The indoor area is divided into multiple zones based on distance and direction, as shown in the example in the drawing. The detected occupancy location can be identified to which indoor zone it belongs.

[0280] In Fig. 10, areas ① to ③ can be short-range areas, areas ④ to ⑥ can be mid-range areas, and areas ⑦ to ⑨ can be short-range areas. Areas ①, ④, and ⑦ can be the left area when viewed from the air conditioner, areas ②, ⑤, and ⑧ can be the center area, and areas ③, ⑥, and ⑨ can be the right area.

[0281] In this embodiment, the left region is reached by air discharged through the left side outlet formed on the left side of the air conditioner, the right region is reached by air discharged through the right side outlet formed on the right side of the air conditioner, and the central region is reached by air discharged through the front outlet formed on the front side of the air conditioner.

[0282] In this embodiment, the air volume and direction are primarily determined based on the location of the room, and then the air is discharged. Preferably, the air volume and direction can be determined based on distance and direction.

[0283] For example, if the occupant is in area ⑨, they are far to the right, so the wind direction can be set to the maximum angle to the right and the wind volume can be set to strong wind.

[0284] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting an indoor area into multiple division areas according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram explaining an example of calculating the movement distance of an occupant in FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a diagram explaining an example of calculating the activity level of an occupant in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of calculating the movement distance of one person in FIG. 11. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of calculating the movement distance of two or more people in FIG. 11. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of no movement distance of one to three people in FIG. 11.

[0285] Referring to Figures 11 to 16, in order to calculate the movement distance of an occupant, the indoor area is divided into multiple distinct areas by subdividing them according to distance and direction.

[0286] In this embodiment, the space forming the indoor area is divided into n equal parts with the location of the air conditioner as a virtual origin, and then divided into multiple separate areas according to long distance, medium distance, and short distance.

[0287] For convenience of explanation, each area is numbered in the drawing to distinguish it from another. This section explains the process of calculating the distance traveled by occupants using each area.

[0288] In the example of Fig. 11, the position of the occupant in the first cycle is the 17th segment area, and in the next cycle, the 2nd cycle, it is the 22nd segment area.

[0289] The mapping between the occupancy location and the segmentation area is determined by the mapping unit (322). As described above, the mapping unit (322) maps the occupancy location detected each cycle to a corresponding specific segmentation area among the multiple segmentation areas. In the present embodiment, a known image processing technique may be used for this mapping.

[0290] As in the example of Fig. 12, since the occupant's location has moved from the 17th segment to the 22nd segment during one period of time, the movement distance calculation unit (318) calculates the movement distance of the occupant using the distance between the 17th segment and the 22nd segment.

[0291] The distance between each of the segmented areas is set and stored in the storage unit (313). Using the above distance relationship, the movement distance of the occupant can be calculated from the occupant's location mapped to all segmented areas.

[0292] The process of calculating the activity level of the occupant is explained with reference to Figure 13.

[0293] The example in Fig. 13 illustrates the segmented areas mapped for each cycle. In this embodiment, the segmented areas where the occupancy location is mapped are checked for each cycle for a preset period of time.

[0294] For example, mapping occupant locations to segmented areas at 30-second intervals for 5 minutes yields a total of 10 segmented areas. For each of these segmented areas, the distance between the segmented areas mapped in the previous cycle and the segmented areas mapped in the next cycle can be used to calculate the occupant's movement distance for each cycle.

[0295] The activity calculation unit (318) calculates the total accumulated movement distance by adding up the movement distance and calculates the total accumulated movement distance as the activity amount of the occupant.

[0296] Accordingly, the controller (330) can adjust the set amount and / or wind volume based on the calculated activity level of the occupant.

[0297] In this embodiment, the set temperature can be reduced and the airflow can be increased as the activity level increases. In other embodiments, a threshold can be set to determine whether the activity level is high. For example, if the activity level exceeds a preset threshold, the set temperature can be reduced and the airflow can be increased.

[0298] Figure 14 illustrates an example of calculating the distance traveled before and after a single detected occupant. In the figure, the occupant locations before and after movement are designated areas 22 and 17, respectively. Therefore, the distance between these two areas is calculated as the occupant's travel distance.

[0299] In the case of a single occupant, the distance between the occupant's movement distance and the occupant's movement distance is calculated as the distance between the occupant's movement distance and the occupant's movement distance.

[0300] Figure 15 illustrates a case where two occupants are detected. In the figure, before moving, the first occupant is in segmentation area 22, and the second occupant is in segmentation area 26. After moving, the first and second occupants are in segmentation areas 12 and 9, respectively.

[0301] In this case, the distance between each of the occupied areas before and after the movement is calculated, and the distance between the two occupied areas with the furthest distance is calculated as the movement distance of the occupied area.

[0302] This method can be applied equally to three or more people. That is, for each of the three people, the pre-movement and post-movement segments are checked, the distance between each segment is calculated, and the distance between the two segments with the furthest distance is calculated as the movement distance of the occupant.

[0303] In this case, in the case of two or more people, the distance between each segmentation area to which each occupancy location detected in the previous cycle is mapped and each segmentation area to which each occupancy location detected in the current cycle is mapped is compared with each other, and the distance between the two segmentation areas with the furthest distance is calculated as the movement distance of the occupants.

[0304] Figure 16 illustrates examples of determining that there is no movement of occupants. If the number of occupants before and after movement is the same, and the mapped occupant locations match the same area before and after movement, the distance traveled by the occupants is calculated as 0.

[0305] In the drawing, for one person, the dividing area before and after movement is the same as number 22, for two people, it is the same as numbers 22 and 26, and for three people, it is the same as numbers 22, 26, and 19, so the movement distance of the occupant is 0.

[0306] Even if there is movement within the same classification area, if the occupant is in the same classification area before and after the movement, it is considered that there has been no movement.

[0307] If the time interval for detecting the occupant's location is reduced or the range of each individual segment is reduced, the accuracy of the calculation of the occupant's movement distance will increase.

[0308] Figure 17 is a drawing showing the airflow speed set for each occupancy location for an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0309] As an example, Fig. 17 shows the airflow speed (flow rate) set for each occupancy location for four air conditioners (#1 to #4).

[0310] The airflow speed is set in advance using the measured value of the airflow speed for each location in the space according to the size, wind volume, and wind direction of the installation space for each model of the air conditioner (100).

[0311] In addition, data such as current wind volume, wind speed, and wind direction of the indoor unit (10) of the storage unit (313) can be stored, and when the wind volume, wind speed, and wind direction are changed, the changed data is also stored.

[0312] The controller (330) measures the activity level of the occupant (P) by using the real-time location of the occupant. The controller (330) can measure the activity level of the occupant by analyzing the movement and position change of the occupant.

[0313] The controller (330) can calculate the PMV value at the occupant location by using the indoor temperature and air flow rate (air velocity) according to the activity level of the occupant.

[0314] The controller (140) can determine the level of comfort of the occupant at the actual location based on the calculated PMV value.

[0315] The controller (140) maintains control of the current indoor temperature and airflow speed when the comfort level of the occupant satisfies the comfort conditions, and can change the control of the indoor temperature and airflow speed by adjusting the temperature, wind volume, wind direction, etc. when the comfort conditions are not satisfied.

[0316] The controller (140) may have various expandability in addition to the above functions and operations.

[0317] FIG. 18 is an exemplary diagram showing the wind direction and the blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in the direct wind operation mode in the fast section, FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram showing the wind direction and the blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in the indirect wind operation mode in the comfortable section, and FIG. 20 is an exemplary diagram showing the wind direction and the blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention operates in the indirect wind operation mode in the comfortable section.

[0318] Referring to Fig. 18, the air conditioner (100) of the present invention operates in a rapid cooling operation mode in the rapid section. At this time, in the rapid section, air is blown directly to the occupant location.

[0319] As described above, the indoor space (S) can be divided into multiple areas. The drawing shows an example divided into 15 areas centered around an air conditioner (100).

[0320] In FIGS. 18 to 20, the areas are divided assuming that the air conditioner (100) is located in the upper right corner of the indoor space as seen in the drawing.

[0321] Accordingly, the zones can be set differently depending on the location where the air conditioner (100) is installed, and it is obvious that the number and scope of zones vary depending on the size of the indoor space.

[0322] In the high-speed section, the human body detection unit detects the location of an occupant (P) in the indoor area, and the wind direction and wind speed (blowing stage) can be adjusted so that air is directly delivered to the detected occupant location.

[0323] In an example of the drawing, areas ① to ⑤ can be short-range areas, areas ⑥ to ⑩ can be mid-range areas, and areas ⑪ to ⑮ can be long-range areas in terms of distance.

[0324] And, in terms of direction, areas ①, ⑥, ⑪ can be left (L) areas, areas ②-④, ⑦-⑨, ⑫-⑭ can be center (M) areas, and areas ⑤, ⑩, ⑮ can be right (R) areas.

[0325] In direct wind operation mode, air must be sent to the area where the occupant is located. Therefore, if the occupant is located in one of the left (L) areas, the wind direction can be focused left. If the occupant is located in one of the center (M) areas, the wind direction can be focused (center). If the occupant is located in one of the right (R) areas, the wind direction can be focused right.

[0326] In the high-speed section, the direct wind can be operated at the lowest temperature and at the maximum blowing level. For example, it can be operated at 18°C ​​power wind.

[0327] Figure 19 is an example diagram of the wind direction and blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in the indirect wind operation mode in the comfort zone.

[0328] The area division of Fig. 19 is the same as Fig. 18. However, since it is an indirect wind operation mode in a comfortable section, the direction and blowing stages are different.

[0329] In indirect wind operation mode, the occupant position is detected and air is discharged in the direction where there is no occupant, so that the occupant can indirectly come into contact with the air.

[0330] In an example of the drawing, areas ① to ⑤ can be short-range areas, areas ⑥ to ⑩ can be mid-range areas, and areas ⑪ to ⑮ can be long-range areas in terms of distance, similar to Fig. 18.

[0331] And, in terms of direction, as in Fig. 18, areas ①, ⑥, ⑪ can be left (L) areas, areas ②-④, ⑦-⑨, ⑫-⑭ can be center (M) areas, and areas ⑤, ⑩, ⑮ can be right (R) areas.

[0332] In direct wind operation mode, air must be sent to the area where the occupants are, so if the occupants are in one of the areas ①-②, ⑥-⑦, ⑪-⑫, the wind direction is blown only to the right, if the occupants are in one of the areas ④-⑤, ⑨-⑩, ⑭-⑮, the wind direction is blown only to the left, and if the occupants are in one of the areas ③, ⑧, ⑬, the wind direction is blown in a wide wind that blows to both sides.

[0333] In the comfort zone, indirect airflow can be delivered at a temperature set by the user and at a level lower than the maximum airflow level. As previously explained, in the comfort zone, the set temperature can be repeatedly raised and lowered by up to +2℃ depending on the human body's acclimatization time.

[0334] Figure 20 is an example diagram of the wind direction and blowing stage according to the area of ​​the occupant when the air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention operates in the indirect wind operation mode in the comfort zone.

[0335] Referring to Figure 20, the indoor space can be divided into areas in various forms.

[0336] In an example of the drawing, areas ① to ⑤ can be short-range areas, areas ⑥ to ⑩ can be mid-range areas, and areas ⑪ to ⑮ can be long-range areas in terms of distance. This is the same as in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0337] However, in terms of direction, unlike FIGS. 18 and 19, areas ①-③, ⑥-⑧, ⑪-⑬ can be left (L) areas, areas ⑨, ⑭ can be center (M) areas, and areas ④-⑤, ⑩, ⑮ can be right (R) areas.

[0338] In indirect wind operation mode, air must be sent to areas where there are no occupants. Therefore, if an occupant is in one of the left (L) areas, air is blown only in the right direction. If an occupant is in one of the center (M) areas, air is blown in a wide wind direction. If an occupant is in one of the right (R) areas, air is blown only in the left direction.

[0339] The indirect wind blowing stage in the comfortable zone can blow at a temperature set by the user at a level lower than the maximum blowing stage, as shown in Fig. 19.

[0340] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an operating method of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0341] Referring to FIG. 21, when the air conditioner (100) of the present invention is operating in a rapid operation mode (S101), and a comfortable operation mode is selected (S102), the controller (330) can control the operation in the comfortable operation mode (S105).

[0342] However, if the comfortable driving mode is not selected, the system continues to operate in the rapid driving mode, and the controller (330) can control rapid cooling operation to be performed at the temperature set in the rapid driving mode (S103). The set temperature may be the temperature set in the comfortable cooling operation, or may be the lowest temperature that can be set in the air conditioner (100). In the present embodiment, it may be, for example, 18°C.

[0343] Additionally, in the rapid operation mode, the cooling operation can be performed with the set temperature set to 18℃ and the 18℃ power wind. Here, the 18℃ power wind operation can be a cooling operation with the lowest temperature and maximum wind volume.

[0344] When the indoor temperature reaches the target temperature, the controller (330) can control the vehicle to perform comfortable driving by switching to a comfortable driving mode (S105).

[0345] Figure 22 is a flowchart explaining an operation method in a comfortable operation mode in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0346] Referring to Fig. 22, when the air conditioner (100) is operated in a comfortable operation mode (S201), the controller (330) determines whether the set temperature is the first set temperature (S202).

[0347] If the set temperature is not the first set temperature, the controller (330) changes the set temperature stepwise from the existing set temperature to the first set temperature based on the human body adaptation time (S203).

[0348] Preferably, the controller (33) changes the set temperature from the existing set temperature in units of 0.5℃ according to the human body adaptation time, and finally changes it to the first set temperature.

[0349] Here, the existing set temperature may be a temperature preset in the air conditioner (100) or a temperature set by the user.

[0350] Alternatively, the existing set temperature may be the set temperature before switching from the rapid driving mode to the comfortable driving mode.

[0351] For example, in the rapid cooling operation mode, the existing set temperature may be 18℃.

[0352] When the indoor temperature changes and reaches the first set temperature (S204), the controller (330) changes the set temperature stepwise from the first set temperature to the second set temperature based on the human body acclimation time (S205).

[0353] Preferably, the controller (330) changes the temperature from the first set temperature in 0.5℃ units according to the human body adaptation time, and finally changes it to the first set temperature.

[0354] In this embodiment, the second set temperature is higher than the first set temperature. Preferably, the second set temperature is 2°C higher than the first set temperature.

[0355] When the indoor temperature changes and reaches the second set temperature (S206), the controller (330) controls the set temperature to be changed stepwise between the first set temperature and the second set temperature based on the human body adaptation time, while repeating the rise and fall (207).

[0356] In this case, the set temperature is changed in 0.5℃ units between the first set temperature and the second set temperature according to the human body acclimation time, and the temperature rises and falls repeatedly.

[0357] In this way, in the present invention, by changing the set temperature in units of 0.5℃ according to the human body acclimation time, the thermo-off phenomenon caused by the difference between the indoor temperature and the set temperature can be prevented or at least minimized.

[0358] Figure 23 is a flowchart explaining an operating method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0359] Referring to Fig. 23, when the air conditioner (100) according to the present invention starts operating, a refrigeration cycle may be driven according to the cooling mode or heating mode. Depending on the refrigeration cycle, air may be discharged according to the air volume, wind speed, wind direction, and temperature set in the indoor unit (10).

[0360] The air conditioner (100) operates according to the input operation mode (S301).

[0361] The air conditioner (100) detects a person (P) in the human body detection unit (S302) and calculates the location of the person (P) in the room (S303).

[0362] The controller (330) calculates the activity level of the occupant (P) based on the location of the occupant (P) (S304).

[0363] The air conditioner (100) measures the indoor temperature in the sensor unit (316) (S305).

[0364] The controller (330) checks the airflow velocity (air velocity) at the location of the occupant (P) (S306). This airflow velocity (air velocity) is stored in advance in the storage unit for each zone according to the model (type) of the air conditioner and the size of the space in which it is installed.

[0365] The controller (330) calculates the PMV at the location of the occupant (P) based on the measured indoor temperature and flow rate (S307). The PMV can be calculated using the following formula.

[0366] PMV = K + a×(room temperature) + b×(flow rate) + c×(room temperature)×(flow rate)

[0367] Here, K is a coefficient related to the indoor temperature of the air conditioner, b is a coefficient related to the air flow rate of the air conditioner, c is a coefficient related to the product of the indoor temperature and the air flow rate of the air conditioner, and K is a constant preset in the air conditioner for calculating PMV.

[0368] The above a, b, c, and K are unique values ​​set for each air conditioner (100), and are preset according to the model (type) of the air conditioner (100) and the size of the indoor space in which the air conditioner (100) is installed, and are stored in the storage unit (313).

[0369] At this time, the coefficients and constants in the formula for calculating PMV change depending on the activity level of the occupant (P). That is, by assigning different weights to the indoor temperature and airflow velocity depending on the activity level of the occupant, the coefficients and constants in the formula change.

[0370] This is to calculate PMV by considering the level of activity, as comfort conditions or comfort ranges vary depending on the level of activity of the occupant (P). For example, as the level of activity increases, a relatively greater weight can be assigned, resulting in larger constants and coefficients.

[0371] The controller (330) determines whether the calculated PMV is within the comfortable range (S308). If the PMV is 0, it can be considered a value at which the occupant feels optimally comfortable. If the range within which the occupant feels comfortable is set, the range of 0±0.5 can be considered the comfortable range. Therefore, S308 can determine whether the PMV is within the range of 0±0.5. Of course, this value can be changed.

[0372] If the PMV is within the comfortable range, the controller (330) maintains control over the current wind volume, wind speed, temperature, and airflow speed (S309).

[0373] If the comfort conditions are not satisfied, the controller (330) changes the control of wind volume, wind speed, temperature, and airflow speed so that PMV converges to 0 (S310).

[0374] PMV is the expected average thermal sensation, calculated by measuring the thermal environmental factors of the human body and its surroundings based on the thermal equilibrium equation between the human body and its surroundings. PMV can be expressed as a numerical value from -3 to +3, indicating warmth or coldness.

[0375] A PMV of 0 indicates a comfortable state. In the present invention, even if a certain error is applied, it can be considered that the comfortable condition is satisfied within the range of 0±0.5.

[0376] The human body's sense of warmth is primarily related to its thermal equilibrium. This equilibrium is influenced not only by physical environmental factors such as temperature, average radiant temperature, airflow velocity, and humidity, but also by activity level and clothing.

[0377] By quantifying these factors through measurement or approximation, we can predict the human body's thermal sensation by calculating PMV as described in Section 3.

[0378] PMV predicts the average of many people's votes (sometimes translated as votes or reports, hereafter referred to as votes) on the following seven-point warmth scale.

[0379] +3hot+2warm+1slightly warm0neutral-1slightly cool-2cool-3cold

[0380] Humans are in a state of thermal equilibrium when the body's internal heat production equals the heat loss to the surrounding environment. In a warm environment, the body's thermoregulatory system automatically regulates skin temperature and secretes sweat to maintain thermal equilibrium. PMV statistically correlates the physiological responses of the body's thermoregulatory system with thermal sensation reports collected from multiple individuals.

[0381] Afterwards, the process returns to step S101 and repeats the process thereafter. This iterative process ensures that the comfort level at the occupant's location tracks the comfort conditions in real time.

[0382] Figures 24 to 27 are exemplary drawings explaining the process of calculating the temperature and wind speed of a room location in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0383] Referring to FIGS. 24 to 27, the air conditioner (100) measures the position (occupancy position) of the occupant (P) measured by the radar sensor. Specifically, the radar sensor measures the distance and direction (angle) of the occupant (P) with respect to the air conditioner (100). In addition, the temperature sensor measures the indoor temperature.

[0384] At this time, the air conditioner (100) calculates the temperature, wind speed, and PMV at the occupant location based on the distance and direction of the occupant (P), the indoor temperature, and the wind speed and direction of the air conditioner (100) from the controller (330). Here, the wind speed and direction of the air conditioner (100) can be determined according to the blowing mode and the operation mode.

[0385] The temperature and wind speed at the occupant's (P) location can be calculated by a preset formula, algorithm or program based on the wind speed and wind direction of the air discharged from the air conditioner (100), the indoor temperature measured by the temperature sensor, and the distance and direction of the occupant (P) with respect to the air conditioner (100).

[0386] An example of Fig. 24 illustrates an example in which one occupant is in area ⑦ among 15 preset division areas. Here, the indoor temperature is 28.5℃, the wind speed is medium-low wind, the wind direction is wide, the temperature and wind speed at the occupant location are 29℃ and 0.15 m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -0.36.

[0387] Another example of Fig. 25 illustrates an example in which two occupants are in areas ① and ⑥, respectively, among the 15 preset division areas. Here, the indoor temperature is 29℃, the wind speed is medium-low wind, and the wind direction is wide. The temperature and wind speed at the location of the first occupant are 29.5℃ and 0.15m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -0.07. The temperature and wind speed at the location of the second occupant are 28.3℃ and 0.15m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -0.78.

[0388] Another example of Fig. 26 illustrates an example in which one occupant is in area ⑩ among the 15 preset division areas. Here, the indoor temperature is 24℃, the wind speed is medium wind, the wind direction is left of one wind, the temperature and wind speed at the occupant location are 25℃ and 0.15 m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -2.74.

[0389] Another example of Fig. 27 shows an example in which three occupants are in areas ⑥, ⑧, and ⑨ among the 15 preset division areas. Here, the indoor temperature is 23.5℃, the wind speed is medium wind, the wind direction is left-wing, the temperature and wind speed at the location of the first occupant are 24.5℃ and 0.3m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -3.62. The temperature and wind speed at the location of the second occupant are 24.5℃ and 0.15m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -3.04. The temperature and wind speed at the location of the third occupant are 24.5℃ and 0.15m / s, respectively, and the PMV is calculated as -3.04.

[0390] Meanwhile, the air conditioner (100) can preferably transmit the information set and calculated in FIGS. 24 to 27 to the server (140). At this time, the images shown in FIGS. 24 to 27 can also be transmitted together with the above information.

[0391] In this case, the server (140) can transmit the above information and images to the user terminal (120) at the request of the user terminal (120).

[0392] Alternatively, the air conditioner (100) may transmit the above information and images directly to the user terminal (120) without going through the server (140).

[0393] The user terminal (120) can display the information and images received from the air conditioner (100) and / or the server (120) through a display.

[0394] Figure 28 is an example diagram explaining information displayed on a display of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0395] Referring to FIG. 28, the display of the user terminal (100) may display information such as the location of the air conditioner (100) in an indoor space, the location of the user (the person carrying the user terminal (100)) relative to the air conditioner (100), as well as indoor temperature, indoor humidity, wind speed, and fine dust.

[0396] Alternatively, the display of the user terminal (100) may display at least one of the following information: the user's current location, indoor temperature, indoor humidity, fine dust, wind speed and direction of the air conditioner (100), temperature at the current location, wind speed and PMV, and the air blowing mode and operation mode of the air conditioner (100).

[0397] In this way, the user terminal (100) can display information received from the air conditioner (100) and / or the server (140) on the display, and can display information according to the user's request on the display so that the user can visually confirm it.

[0398] FIG. 29 is another exemplary diagram illustrating information displayed on a display of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0399] Referring to FIG. 29, the user terminal (120) can display on the display which segmented area the user carrying the user terminal (120), i.e. the occupant (P), is in.

[0400] To this end, the user terminal (120) may display the 'Radar Monitoring' menu among multiple menus. When the user touches the radar monitoring menu, the user's current location is displayed, allowing the user to visually confirm his or her location.

[0401] At this time, the settings for functions utilizing radar sensors can also be additionally displayed. These functions may include AI wind, absenteeism, and home monitoring.

[0402] Additionally, users can adjust the desired temperature, wind direction, wind speed, driving mode, and blowing mode from their location.

[0403] Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the inventors of the present invention are not necessarily limited to these embodiments. That is, within the scope of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times. Furthermore, terms such as "include," "comprise," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, imply that the corresponding component may be inherent. Therefore, they should be interpreted to include other components rather than excluding other components.

Claims

1. A temperature sensor that measures the indoor temperature of the space where the indoor unit of the air conditioner is installed; A human body detection unit that detects the location of a person in the above space; A storage unit that stores the airflow speed in the space set in the air conditioner; and An air conditioner including a controller that calculates the expected average thermal sensation (PMV) at the location of the occupant using the measured indoor temperature and the stored airflow speed, and determines whether the calculated PMV is within a set comfort range.

2. In claim 1, the air conditioner maintains the current operating state when the PMV is within the comfortable range.

3. In claim 1, the controller is an air conditioner that changes the current operating state when the PMV goes out of the comfort range.

4. In claim 3, the controller is an air conditioner that changes the set temperature of the air conditioner when the PMV is out of the comfort range.

5. In claim 4, the controller is an air conditioner that changes the set temperature stepwise from the existing set temperature to the first set temperature according to the human body acclimation time.

6. An air conditioner according to claim 5, wherein the controller changes the set temperature in steps from the existing set temperature in 0.5℃ units according to the human body acclimation time to the first set temperature.

7. In claim 4, the controller is an air conditioner that changes the set temperature in stages from the first set temperature to the second set temperature according to the human body acclimation time when the indoor temperature reaches the first set temperature.

8. An air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein the second set temperature is higher than the first set temperature.

9. An air conditioner according to claim 7, wherein when the indoor temperature reaches the second set temperature, the controller changes the set temperature between the first set temperature and the second set temperature in units of 0.5°C according to the human body acclimation time, thereby repeating the increase and decrease.

10. An air conditioner according to claim 1, further comprising an activity amount calculation unit that calculates the activity amount of the occupant by using the location of the occupant, and the controller calculates PMV according to the activity amount of the occupant.

11. An air conditioner according to claim 10, wherein the controller assigns different weights to the indoor temperature and airflow speed according to the activity level of the occupant, and assigns a relatively larger weight as the activity level of the occupant increases to calculate the PMV.

12. An air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the controller operates in a direct wind operation mode in a fast section and in an indirect wind operation mode in a comfortable section based on the detected occupant position.

13. An air conditioner according to claim 1, which adjusts the wind direction or wind volume when the PMV is outside the comfortable range.

14. Step for measuring the indoor temperature of the space where the indoor unit is installed; A step of calculating the location of an occupant in the above space; A step of checking the airflow speed at the location of the above occupant; A step of calculating the expected average thermal sensation (PMV) at the location of the occupant using the above indoor temperature and airflow speed; and An operating method of an air conditioner, comprising a step of determining whether the above PMV is within a preset comfort range.

15. In claim 14, the controller is an operating method of an air conditioner that maintains the current operating state when the PMV is within the comfortable range.

16. In claim 14, the method of operating an air conditioner in which the controller changes the current operating state when the PMV goes out of the comfort range.

17. In claim 14, an operating method of an air conditioner further comprising a step of calculating the activity level of the occupant by using the location of the occupant, and calculating PMV according to the activity level of the occupant.

18. In claim 17, the controller assigns different weights to the indoor temperature and airflow speed according to the activity level of the occupant, and the method for operating an air conditioner for calculating the PMV by assigning a relatively larger weight as the activity level of the occupant increases.

19. In claim 14, An operating method of an air conditioner in which the controller operates in direct wind operation mode in a fast section and in indirect wind operation mode in a comfortable section based on the position of the detected occupant.

20. In claim 14, an operating method of an air conditioner for controlling air volume or air speed when the PMV is outside the comfort range.

Images