Air conditioner including radar sensor and method for controlling operation of air conditioner

Abstract

Disclosed is an air conditioner which may comprise: an indoor unit main body including a heat exchanger, a blower, and a blade; a radar sensor provided inside the indoor unit main body and detecting a person in a room; and a sensor seating part on which the radar sensor is seated to be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the floor surface, wherein the predetermined angle is one of 50 to 70 degrees when the indoor unit main body is located near one side edge of the ceiling.

Description

Air conditioner including radar sensor and method for controlling operation of air conditioner

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an air conditioner including a radar sensor and a method for controlling the operation of the air conditioner.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device or appliance that regulates indoor air conditions, capable of cooling (or heating) and dehumidifying the air. Recently, air conditioners have begun to use passive infrared (PIR) sensors for human presence detection. PIR sensors detect heat sources (infrared rays) and determine the presence of a person by detecting the heat source (infrared rays). However, PIR sensors cannot accurately identify a person's location. They can only notify the air conditioner's MCU (microcontroller unit) of the presence of a person within a predefined area. Furthermore, PIR sensors cannot determine distance, making it impossible to determine whether a person is near or far from the air conditioner. Consequently, air conditioners that incorporate PIR sensors have limitations in providing convenient services based on a person's location.

[0003] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit body including a heat exchanger, a blower, and blades; a radar sensor provided inside the indoor unit body to detect a person in the room; and a sensor mounting portion in which the radar sensor is mounted so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle and facing the floor. The predetermined angle may be one of 50 degrees and 70 degrees when the indoor unit body is positioned on one side of the ceiling.

[0004] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit body including a heat exchanger, a blower, and blades; a radar sensor provided inside the indoor unit body facing the floor; a memory storing one or more instructions; and at least one processor. The at least one processor may, by executing one or more instructions, obtain information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner using the radar sensor. The at least one processor may identify an activity level of the at least one occupant using the information on the location of the at least one occupant. The at least one processor may determine an air volume of the air conditioner based on the activity level of the at least one occupant. The at least one processor may control the blower to discharge air at the determined air volume.

[0005] A method for controlling the operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a step of obtaining information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner using a radar sensor provided inside an indoor unit body facing the floor; a step of identifying an activity level of at least one occupant using the information on the location of at least one occupant; a step of determining an air volume of the air conditioner based on the activity level of at least one occupant; and a step of controlling a blower of the air conditioner so that wind is discharged at the determined air volume.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a radar sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the installation angle of a radar sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a sensor mounting portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining an operation of detecting multiple occupants through a radar sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the coordinates of multiple occupants detected by a radar sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating the function of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a communication system of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling airflow by an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining an operation of controlling air volume by an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling airflow according to the number of occupants in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to control air volume according to the number of occupants and the amount of activity of the occupants.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a method for adjusting the angle of a blade based on the position of an occupant in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for setting a direct wind mode or an indirect wind mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to adjust the angle of a blade based on the position of an occupant.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to operate in an energy saving mode when the absence of an occupant is detected.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for adjusting a power-saving operation time of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure based on an absence pattern of an occupant.

[0023] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to adjust the energy-saving operation time according to the absence pattern of an occupant.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a GUI for setting a power saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method for IoT devices connected to an air conditioner to switch to a power saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining an operation of IoT devices connected to an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure switching to a power saving mode.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a security detection notification.

[0028] FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining an operation of a user terminal outputting a security detection notification according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a notification urging an occupant to increase their activity level.

[0030] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner or a user terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a notification urging an occupant to increase their activity level.

[0031] The terms used in this disclosure will be briefly explained, and one embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described.

[0032] The terms used in this disclosure are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of one embodiment of the disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant embodiments of the disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be defined simply as names of terms, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the disclosure.

[0033] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0034] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is said to "include" a certain component, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part," "module," etc., used in this disclosure refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and "part" and "module" may be implemented as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0035] It should be understood that the blocks and combinations of flowcharts in each flowchart can be executed by one or more computer programs containing computer-executable instructions. The one or more computer programs may be stored entirely in a single memory, or may be stored in separate portions across multiple different memories.

[0036] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, singular forms (e.g., "a," "an," and "the") are to be understood to include plural referents. Thus, for example, the description "a component surface" may also include reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0037] All functions or operations described in this document may be performed by a single processor or a combination of processors. A single processor or a combination of processors is a circuitry that performs processing, and may include circuitry such as an Application Processor (AP), a Communication Processor (CP), a Graphical Processing Unit (GPU), a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), a Microprocessor Unit (MPU), a System on Chip (SoC), or an Integrated Chip (IC).

[0038] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, one embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted to clearly describe one embodiment of the present disclosure, and similar parts are designated with similar drawing reference numerals throughout the present disclosure.

[0039] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device having at least one of these functions.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0041] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0042] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0043] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0044] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0045] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized (formed, assembled, and / or classified) into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted indoor units depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0046] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0047] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in refrigerant gas through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0048] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0049] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0050] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0051] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0052] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0053] Multiple outdoor units may all be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0054] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0055] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0056] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0057] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0058] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0059] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0060] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, and / or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0061] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, and / or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected from an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0062] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0063] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0064] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0065] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0066] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0067] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0068] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0069] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0070] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may be disposed below the indoor heat exchanger and include a drain tray for collecting the condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate accommodated in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0071] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means including buttons, switches, touchscreens, and / or touch pads. The user may directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode setting of cooling / heating / dehumidifying / air cleaning, outlet selection setting, and / or air volume setting) through the input interface. Wind (풍) refers to the air flow, particularly the movement of air. The volume, speed, and / or amount of the air flow can be increased or decreased to create more or less air flow.

[0072] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in the indoor space (e.g., a part of the wall surface). The user may operate the wired remote controller to input setting data regarding the operation of the air conditioner. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The user may remotely input setting data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The setting data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0073] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0074] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0075] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0076] For example, each environmental information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0077] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0078] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0079] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0080] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as a server, mobile devices, and / or other home appliances via a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit via the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0081] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow diverter valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation path including the compressor, the flow diverter valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0082] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0083] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0084] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0085] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0086] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include non-volatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0087] The processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0088] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to an indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and / or temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, and warning / error messages.

[0089] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0090] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0091] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] An air conditioner (1000) may be a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, and / or heating of an indoor space. The air conditioner (1000) may include, but is not limited to, an air conditioner that is attached to a ceiling and blows wind in one direction (hereinafter, also referred to as a 1-way ceiling air conditioner). For example, the air conditioner (1000) may include an air conditioner that blows wind in four directions (hereinafter, a 4-way ceiling air conditioner), a stand air conditioner, and / or a wall-mounted air conditioner. However, for convenience of explanation, the present disclosure will be described by taking as an example a case where the air conditioner (1000) is a 1-way ceiling air conditioner.

[0093] An air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a radar sensor (1001) instead of a passive infrared (PIR) sensor for human detection. The radar sensor (1001) can detect the position, speed, and direction of an object using electromagnetic waves. For example, the radar sensor (1001) can transmit electromagnetic waves through a transmitting / receiving antenna and analyze the electromagnetic waves reflected by colliding with an object. The radar sensor (1001) can detect the distance, direction, speed, etc. to the object through the time taken for the reflected radio waves to be emitted, etc.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can detect an occupant using a radar sensor (1001). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the presence or location of an occupant using the radar sensor (1001). An occupant may be a person or a pet residing or existing in an indoor space (e.g., a home, an office, etc.) where the air conditioner (1000) is located, but is not limited thereto. An occupant may also be expressed as a user, a consumer, or a resident.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may detect one or more occupants using the radar sensor (1001). For example, the air conditioner (1000) may detect multiple occupants using the radar sensor (1001) and track the locations of the multiple occupants. The operation of the air conditioner (1000) tracking the locations of multiple occupants using the radar sensor (1001) will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 6.

[0096] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can accurately recognize the position and movement of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001), and thus can efficiently control the operation of the air conditioner (1000) based on the position and movement of the occupant. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can adaptively control the wind volume (wind strength) according to the activity level of the occupant or the number of occupants. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can precisely adjust the wind direction according to the mode set by the occupant (e.g., direct wind mode or indirect wind mode) and the position of the occupant.

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may detect the absence of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001) and perform operations to save energy when the occupant is absent. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may detect unintended movement inside a home while the user is away from home using the radar sensor (1001) and transmit a security sensing notification to a user terminal. The air conditioner (1000) may also use the radar sensor (1001) to determine the health status of the occupant (e.g., activity level, heart rate, respiration rate, etc.) and output a notification related to the health status of the occupant.

[0098] That is, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can provide comfort, energy savings, convenience, and stability to occupants by utilizing the radar sensor (1001). The operation of the air conditioner (1000) utilizing the radar sensor (1001) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 9 to 25.

[0099] Below, with reference to FIG. 2, the radar sensor (1001) will be examined in more detail.

[0100] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a radar sensor (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a radar sensor (1001) may be provided inside the indoor unit body so as to face the floor. Since the radar sensor (1001) is located inside the indoor unit body, it may not be visible from the outside.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the radar sensor (1001) may be placed on one side of the air conditioner (1000). For example, the radar sensor (1001) may be placed on the left or right side of the blade (1004). Additionally, the radar sensor (1001) may be placed near a remote control receiver. The remote control receiver may include an IR (infrared) communication module, etc.

[0103] The radar sensor (1001) may be connected to a processor included in a PBA (Printed Board Assembly or Printed Circuit Board Assembly) (1012). The radar sensor (1001) may communicate with the processor at predetermined intervals. The radar sensor (1001) may transmit information on the presence or absence of an occupant to the processor at predetermined intervals. For example, when the radar sensor (1001) detects an occupant, it may transmit information on the location of the occupant (e.g., coordinate values) to the processor. When the radar sensor (1001) detects multiple occupants, it may transmit information on the locations of each of the multiple occupants to the processor. In addition, when the occupant leaves the detection area, the radar sensor (1001) may transmit information on the absence of the occupant to the processor.

[0104] In Fig. 2, an example in which one radar sensor (1001) is provided in the air conditioner (1000) is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The air conditioner (1000) may include multiple radar sensors (1001). For example, if the air conditioner (1000) is a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner, two radar sensors (1001) may be provided in the air conditioner (1000). The first radar sensor may be provided on the left side of the air conditioner (1000) so as to face the left floor surface, and the second radar sensor may be provided on the right side of the air conditioner (1000) so as to face the right floor surface.

[0105] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the radar sensor (1001) may be arranged to face the floor at a predetermined angle (e.g., 50 to 70 degrees) in order to expand the detection area. For example, if the air conditioner (1000) is a one-way ceiling-type air conditioner, the radar sensor (1001) may be arranged to face the floor at a predetermined angle (e.g., 50 to 70 degrees) from the panel module instead of being installed horizontally with the panel module. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the indoor unit body may include a sensor mounting portion (1011) on which the radar sensor (1001) is mounted to face the floor at a predetermined angle. The sensor mounting portion (1011) may also be expressed as a case sensor. Meanwhile, the radar sensor (1001) arranged on the sensor mounting portion (1011) may be covered with a cover case. The sensor mounting portion (1011) may include, but is not limited to, a dust sensor (1013) in addition to the radar sensor (1001).

[0106] Meanwhile, the indoor unit body may include an intake (cover panel) (1014), a blower (1003), and a blade (1004). The configuration of the indoor unit body will be examined in detail later with reference to FIG. 7, and the installation angle of the radar sensor (1001) will be examined further below with reference to FIG. 3.

[0107] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the installation angle of a radar sensor (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] Referring to 310 of FIG. 3, if the air conditioner (1000) is a one-way ceiling-type air conditioner, in order to expand the detection area, instead of installing the radar sensor (1001) horizontally with respect to the indoor unit body, the radar sensor (1001) may be installed by tilting it by 63 degrees. At this time, the indoor unit body may include a sensor mounting portion (1011) that allows the radar sensor (1001) to be tilted by 63 degrees. However, 63 degrees here is merely an example and is not limited thereto.

[0109] Referring to 320 of FIG. 3 and 330 of FIG. 3, it can be confirmed that when the radar sensor (1001) is installed at a 63-degree angle, the detection range of the radar sensor (1001) reaches up to 8 m. That is, when the radar sensor (1001) is installed at a 63-degree angle, the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001) can sufficiently cover the entire living room of a typical apartment (e.g., 84 m2). Therefore, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the location of the occupant through the radar sensor (1001) regardless of where the person moves within the living room.

[0110] Below, the sensor mounting portion (1011) that allows the radar sensor (1001) to be tilted at 63 degrees will be further examined with reference to FIG. 4.

[0111] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a sensor mounting portion (1011) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 4, the sensor mounting portion (1011) may be designed to have a structure that minimizes radio interference of the radar sensor (1001). For example, the sensor mounting portion (1011) may minimize structures in the radio wave path of the radar sensor (1001). That is, the interior of the injection-molded product forming the sensor mounting portion (1011) may be designed as an empty space.

[0113] Meanwhile, the radar sensor (1001) mounted on the sensor mounting portion (1011) can detect multiple people. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the operation of the radar sensor (1001) detecting multiple people will be described.

[0114] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining an operation of detecting multiple occupants through a radar sensor (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of occupants may be located in the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001) included in the air conditioner (1000). For example, a first person (501), a second person (502), and a third person (503) may be located in the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001). When the air conditioner (1000) is turned on and the radar sensor (1001) is activated, the radar sensor (1001) transmits electromagnetic waves to detect each of the first person (501), the second person (502), and the third person (503).

[0116] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the radar sensor (1001) can detect the location, movement, etc. of each of a plurality of occupants. For example, the radar sensor (1001) can detect the location of a first person (501), the location of a second person (502), and the location of a third person (503), respectively, and transmit the location values ​​of the first person (501), the location values ​​of the second person (502), and the location values ​​of the third person (503) to the processor. With reference to FIG. 6, the operation of the radar sensor (1001) to identify the locations of a plurality of occupants will be described in more detail.

[0117] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the coordinates of multiple occupants detected by a radar sensor (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 6, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain the location of an occupant as a coordinate on a plane using a radar sensor (1001). For example, when a first person (501), a second person (502), and a third person (503) are located in the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can obtain a first coordinate value (610) as the location value of the first person (501), a second coordinate value (620) as the location value of the second person (502), and a third coordinate value (630) as the location value of the third person (503) using the radar sensor (1001).

[0119] Meanwhile, the air conditioner (1000) can also track the location of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001). Accordingly, the air conditioner (1000) can also identify the direction of movement of the occupant when the occupant moves. Furthermore, the air conditioner (1000) can also determine, using the radar sensor (1001), whether the occupant is close to or far from the air conditioner (1000), moving, or absent.

[0120] Unlike the PIR sensor, the radar sensor (1001) can detect all movements within its detection area, allowing the air conditioner (1000) to perform precise motion control. In particular, since the radar sensor (1001) can detect the location of an occupant in units of cm (or inches), the air conditioner (1000) can perform precise control based on the location of the occupant.

[0121] FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining the function of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7, the indoor unit body (1010) of the air conditioner (1000) may include a radar sensor (1001), a heat exchanger (1002), a blower (1003), a blade (1004), and a control unit (1020). However, at least one of the components illustrated in FIG. 7 may not be an essential component. The indoor unit body (1010) may be implemented with more components than the components illustrated in FIG. 7, or may be implemented with fewer components.

[0123] The heat exchanger (1002) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, the heat exchanger (1002) can absorb heat from indoor air during cooling operation to evaporate the refrigerant in a wet vapor state, and can release heat to indoor air during heating operation to condense the refrigerant in a superheated vapor state. The heat exchanger (1002) included in the indoor unit body (1010) may also be expressed as an indoor heat exchanger.

[0124] The blower (1003) may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. The indoor fan may include an axial fan, a mixed flow fan, a cross-flow fan, and a centrifugal fan. The blower (1003) may control the speed (volume) of the wind discharged. The blower (1003) may reduce the speed (volume) of the wind discharged from the outlet by reducing the RPM (Revolutions per minute), or may increase the speed (volume) of the wind discharged from the outlet by increasing the RPM (Revolutions per minute).

[0125] The blade (1004) is provided to control the direction of the discharged wind. The blade (1004) may be expressed as a wind control plate. The blade (1004) rotates around a rotation axis and can control the direction of the discharged wind in the left-right direction or the up-down direction. The blade (1004) may include a horizontal blade that controls the wind direction of the air discharged from the discharge port up and down, and a vertical blade that controls the wind direction of the air discharged from the discharge port left and right. The horizontal blade may be formed long in the horizontal direction to control the opening and closing of the discharge port and may be exposed at the front of the discharge port, and may rotate around the rotation axis to control the flow of air discharged from the discharge port in the up-and-down direction. The vertical blade may be formed in a plurality in the vertical direction and may rotate around the rotation axis to control the flow of air discharged from the discharge port left and right. The blade (1004) may be operated by a motor (not shown) that rotates in the forward and reverse directions.

[0126] The control unit (1020) may include a memory (1022) that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the air conditioner (1000), and a processor (1021) that outputs a control signal for controlling a load (e.g., a radar sensor (1001), a heat exchanger (1002), a blower (1003), a blade (1004), etc.) according to the program and / or data stored in the memory (1022).

[0127] The processor (1021) controls the overall operation of the air conditioner (1000). The processor (1021) can control components of the air conditioner (1000) by executing a program stored in the memory (1022).

[0128] The air conditioner (1000) may include one or more processors (1021). The processor (1021) may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). At least one processor (1021) may be implemented in the form of an integrated system on a chip (SoC) including one or more electronic components. Each of the at least one processors (1021) may be implemented as separate hardware (H / W). At least one processor (1021) may be expressed as a MICOM (Micro-Computer, Microprocessor Computer, Microprocessor controller), an MPU (Micro Processor unit), or an MCU (Micro Controller Unit).

[0129] At least one processor (1021) according to the present disclosure may be implemented as a single core processor or as a multicore processor.

[0130] The memory (1022) stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the air conditioner (1000). The memory (1022) can store temporary data generated during the process of generating a control signal for controlling components included in the air conditioner (1000). The memory (1022) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0131] The memory (1022) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The programs stored in the memory (1022) may be classified into a plurality of modules according to their functions.

[0132] The processor (1021) and memory (1022) may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor (1021) may include one or more processors. For example, the processor (1021) may include a main processor and at least one sub-processor. The memory (1022) may include one or more memories.

[0133] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a communication system of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 8, the indoor unit body (1010) of the air conditioner (1000) may include a communication interface (1030). The communication interface (1030) may include a short-range communication unit, a long-range communication unit, etc. The short-range wireless communication unit (short-range wireless communication interface) may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication interface (NFC), a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, Infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an ANT+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto. The long-range communication unit may be used for the air conditioner (1000) to remotely communicate with a server (2000). The long-range communication unit may include the Internet, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN), and a mobile communication unit. The mobile communications unit may include, but is not limited to, 3G modules, 4G modules, 5G modules, LTE modules, NB-IoT modules, LTE-M modules, etc.

[0135] The communication interface (1030) of the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can communicate with a server (2000), an IoT device (3000), and a user terminal (4000) through a network.

[0136] The server (2000) may include a communication module capable of communicating with another server, an air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a user terminal (4000), at least one processor capable of processing data received from another server, an air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a user terminal (4000), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing data or processed data. The server (2000) may be implemented as a variety of computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station. The server (2000) may be implemented as one or more servers that are physically or logically separated based on function, detailed configuration of function, or data, and may transmit and receive data through communication between each server and process the transmitted and received data.

[0137] The server (2000) can perform functions such as managing user accounts, registering air conditioners (1000), IoT devices (3000), and user terminals (4000) by linking them to user accounts, and managing or controlling the registered air conditioners (1000), IoT devices (3000), and user terminals (4000). For example, a user can access the server (2000) through a user terminal (4000) and create a user account. The user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server (2000) can register the air conditioners (1000) and IoT devices (3000) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server (2000) can register, manage, and control the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) by linking the identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) to a user account.

[0138] The IoT device (3000) may include a communication module capable of communicating with an air conditioner (1000), a user terminal (4000), and / or a server (2000), a user interface for receiving user input or outputting information to a user, at least one processor for controlling the operation of the IoT device (3000), and at least one memory storing a program for controlling the operation of the IoT device (3000).

[0139] The IoT device (3000) may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, the IoT device (3000) may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a dishwasher, an electric range, an electric oven, an air conditioner, a clothes manager, a washing machine, a dryer, a microwave oven, an air purifier, a robot vacuum cleaner, a vacuum cleaner, and a television.

[0140] The user terminal (4000) may include a communication module capable of communicating with an air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a server (2000), a user interface for receiving user input or outputting information to a user, at least one processor for controlling the operation of the user terminal (4000), and at least one memory storing a program for controlling the operation of the user terminal (4000).

[0141] The user terminal (4000) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office. The user terminal (4000) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable telephone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, and the like. In the present disclosure, the user terminal (4000) may also be expressed as a mobile terminal.

[0142] The memory of the user terminal (4000) may store a program, i.e., an application, for controlling the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000). The application may be sold installed on the user terminal (4000) or downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0143] A user can access a server (2000) by executing an application installed on a user terminal (4000), create a user account, and perform communication with the server (2000) based on the logged-in user account to register an air conditioner (1000) and an IoT device (3000).

[0144] For example, when the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) are operated so that the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) can be connected to the server (2000) according to the procedure guided by the application installed on the user terminal (4000), the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) can be registered in the user account by registering the identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the air conditioner (1000) and the IoT device (3000) in the corresponding user account on the server (2000).

[0145] A user can control an air conditioner (1000) and an IoT device (3000) using an application installed on a user terminal (4000). For example, when a user logs into a user account using an application installed on a user terminal (4000), an air conditioner (1000) and an IoT device (3000) registered to the user account appear, and when the user inputs a control command for the air conditioner (1000) or the IoT device (3000), the control command can be transmitted to the air conditioner (1000) or the IoT device (3000) via the server (2000).

[0146] A network can include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, while wireless networks can include any network that transmits and receives signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks can be interconnected.

[0147] A network may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a short-range wireless network that does not use an access point (AP). Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth™ (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc.

[0148] An access point (AP) can connect an air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a user terminal (4000) to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server (2000) is connected. The air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a user terminal (4000) can be connected to the server (2000) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0149] The access point (AP) can communicate with an air conditioner (1000), an IoT device (3000), or a user terminal (4000) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi™, IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (Bluetooth™, IEEE 802.15.1), or Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0150] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may be directly connected to a user terminal (4000), an IoT device (3000), or a server (2000) without going through an access point (AP).

[0151] The air conditioner (1000) may be connected to an IoT device (3000), a user terminal (4000), or a server (2000) via a long-distance wireless network or a short-distance wireless network. For example, the air conditioner (1000) may be connected to a user terminal (4000) via a short-distance wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0152] The air conditioner (1000) may be connected to a user terminal (4000), a server (2000), or an IoT device (3000) via a wide area network (WAN) using a long-distance wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module). In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, and may be connected to a user terminal (4000), a server (2000), or an IoT device (3000) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0153] If the air conditioner (1000) can access a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, it may also function as an access relay. Accordingly, the air conditioner (1000) can connect the IoT device (3000) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (2000) is connected. In addition, the IoT device (3000) can connect the air conditioner (1000) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (2000) is connected.

[0154] The air conditioner (1000) can transmit information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (1000) to an IoT device (3000), a user terminal (4000), or a server (2000) via a network. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can transmit information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (1000) to an IoT device (3000), a user terminal (4000), or a server (2000) when a request is received from a server (2000), when a specific event occurs in the air conditioner (1000), or periodically or in real time. When the server (2000) receives information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (1000) from the air conditioner (1000), the server (2000) updates the stored information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (1000) and transmits the updated information about the operation and status of the air conditioner (1000) to the user terminal (4000) via the network. Here, the updating of information may include various operations in which existing information is changed, such as an operation of adding new information to existing information and an operation of replacing existing information with new information.

[0155] The air conditioner (1000) can obtain various information from an IoT device (3000), a user terminal (4000), or a server (2000), and provide the obtained information to a user. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can obtain information related to the function of the air conditioner (1000) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the server (2000), and output the obtained information through a user interface.

[0156] The air conditioner (1000) can operate according to a control command received from an IoT device (3000), a user terminal (4000), or a server (2000). For example, if the air conditioner (1000) obtains prior approval from the user so that it can operate according to the control command of the server (2000) even without user input, the air conditioner (1000) can operate according to the control command received from the server (2000). Here, the control command received from the server (2000) may include, but is not limited to, a control command input by the user through the user terminal (4000) or a control command based on preset conditions.

[0157] The user terminal (4000) can transmit information about the user to the air conditioner (1000), IoT device (3000), or server (2000) via the communication module. For example, the user terminal (4000) can transmit information about the user's location, health status, preferences, schedule, etc. to the server (2000). The user terminal (4000) can transmit information about the user to the air conditioner (1000) or server (2000) with the user's prior consent.

[0158] The air conditioner (1000), IoT device (3000), user terminal (4000), or server (2000) may determine control commands using technologies such as artificial intelligence. For example, the server (2000) may receive information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (1000) and IoT device (3000), or receive information regarding the user of the user terminal (4000), process the information using technologies such as artificial intelligence, and transmit the processing result or control command to the air conditioner (1000), IoT device (3000), or user terminal (4000) based on the processing result.

[0159] Hereinafter, the operation of the air conditioner (1000) providing a customized service to the occupant based on the location of the occupant using a radar sensor (1001) will be examined in detail with reference to FIGS. 9 to 25.

[0160] FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a method for controlling air volume by an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 9, a method for controlling airflow by an air conditioner (1000) may include steps S910 to S940. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S910 to S940 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for controlling airflow by the air conditioner (1000) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 9, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 9 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0162] In step S910, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can obtain information about the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (10000).

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user turns on the power of the air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can detect at least one occupant and obtain the location of at least one occupant using the radar sensor (1001). For example, the radar sensor (1001) can transmit electromagnetic waves and analyze a signal reflected from the occupant to obtain coordinates in a detection area corresponding to the current location of the occupant. The radar sensor (1001) can transmit the coordinates corresponding to the current location of the occupant to the processor (1021). Therefore, information regarding the location of at least one occupant can include coordinate values ​​corresponding to the current location of the occupant.

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can track the location of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001), even if the occupant moves. For example, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) can recognize changes in the coordinates of the occupant received from the radar sensor (1001).

[0165] In step S920, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can identify the activity level of at least one occupant by using information about the location of at least one occupant.

[0166] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the movement of an occupant based on a change in coordinates measured by a radar sensor (1001). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the activity level of the occupant by calculating the movement distance per second of the occupant based on the change in coordinates of the occupant measured by the radar sensor (1001). The air conditioner (1000) can identify that the activity level of the occupant is high as the movement distance per second of the occupant is large, and can identify that the activity level of the occupant is low as the movement distance per second of the occupant is small.

[0167] In step S930, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the activity level of at least one occupant.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may determine the air volume (wind speed) of the air conditioner (1000) to be high when the activity level of at least one occupant is high, and may determine the air volume to be low when the activity level of at least one occupant is low. For example, the air conditioner (1000) may determine the air volume (wind speed) to be high when the activity level of at least one occupant is determined to be high due to movement of a person based on a change in the coordinates measured by the radar sensor (1001). In addition, the air conditioner (1000) may determine the air volume (wind speed) to be low when the activity level of at least one occupant is determined to be low due to no movement of a person based on the absence of a change (e.g., minimal change) in the coordinates measured by the radar sensor (1001).

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a table defining the activity level of an occupant and the degree of wind volume (wind strength) may be stored in the memory (1022) of the air conditioner (1000). For example, the air conditioner (1000) may define the activity level of an occupant as a number between 0 and 10, and store in the memory (1022) a table matching the wind volume mode according to the activity level of the occupant. At this time, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) may determine the wind volume according to the activity level of the occupant based on the table stored in the memory (1022).

[0170] For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine the wind volume as a gentle breeze when the activity level of the occupants is 0 to 3, determine the wind volume as a weak breeze when the activity level of the occupants is 4 to 6, determine the wind volume as a strong breeze when the activity level of the occupants is 7 to 8, and determine the wind volume as a turbo breeze when the activity level of the occupants is 10.

[0171] In step S940, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can control the blower (1003) so that wind is discharged at the wind volume determined in step S930.

[0172] For example, when the air volume corresponding to the activity level of the occupant is 'weak wind', the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to the RPM corresponding to the weak wind. When the air volume corresponding to the activity level of the occupant is 'strong wind', the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to the RPM corresponding to the strong wind.

[0173] Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the activity level of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001), and when the activity level of the occupant is high, can increase the wind volume so that the indoor temperature can quickly reach the set temperature (desired temperature).

[0174] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining an operation of controlling air volume by an air conditioner (1000) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] Referring to 1000-1 of FIG. 10, a user can turn on the air conditioner (1000), sit on a sofa, and watch a video on a smartphone. At this time, the air conditioner (1000) detects the user's movement through a radar sensor (1001) and calculates the user's moving distance per second in real time, thereby identifying the user's activity level. Since the user is sitting on the sofa, the user's moving distance per second may be close to 0. Accordingly, since the user's activity level is also close to 0, the air conditioner (1000) can determine the wind volume as a breeze and adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to an RPM corresponding to the breeze.

[0176] Referring to 1000-2 of FIG. 10, a user can turn on the air conditioner (1000) and clean a room using a stick vacuum cleaner. At this time, the air conditioner (1000) detects the user's movement through a radar sensor (1001) and calculates the user's moving distance per second in real time, thereby identifying the user's activity level. Since the user continues to move to clean, the user's moving distance per second may be long. In other words, since the user's activity level is considerably high, the air conditioner (1000) can determine the air volume as turbo air and adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to an RPM corresponding to the turbo air. Accordingly, the user can finish cleaning in a cooler and more comfortable environment.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 10, the air conditioner (1000) can change the wind volume mode in the order of no-wind mode, breeze mode, weak wind mode, strong wind mode, and turbo mode as the user's activity level increases. On the other hand, the air conditioner (1000) can change the wind volume mode in the order of turbo mode, strong wind mode, weak wind mode, breeze mode, and no-wind mode as the user's activity level decreases. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) adjusts the wind volume (wind strength) according to the user's activity level, thereby allowing the user to work in a more comfortable environment.

[0178] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a method for controlling air volume according to the number of occupants in an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 11, a method for controlling airflow according to the number of occupants in an air conditioner (1000) may include steps S1110 to S1130. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S1110 to S1130 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for controlling airflow according to the number of occupants in an air conditioner (1000) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 11, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 11 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0180] In step S1110, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can detect at least one occupant located within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000) using a radar sensor (1001).

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user turns on the power of an air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can detect at least one occupant using a radar sensor (1001). At this time, the radar sensor (1001) may also detect multiple occupants.

[0182] For example, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) can receive coordinate values ​​for one occupant from the radar sensor (1001) when there is one person within the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001), and can receive coordinate values ​​for each of the three occupants from the radar sensor (1001) when there are three people within the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001).

[0183] In step S1120, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the number of at least one occupant.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can determine the wind volume (wind speed) of the air conditioner (1000) to be higher as the number of occupants detected by the radar sensor (1001) increases, and can determine the wind volume to be lower as the number of occupants detected by the radar sensor (1001) decreases.

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a table defining the number of occupants and the degree of wind speed (wind strength) may be stored in the memory (1022) of the air conditioner (1000). At this time, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) may determine the wind speed according to the number of occupants based on the table stored in the memory (1022).

[0186] For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine the wind volume as a breeze when the number of occupants is 1, determine the wind volume as a weak breeze when the number of occupants is 2, determine the wind volume as a strong breeze when the number of occupants is 3, and determine the wind volume as a turbo breeze when the number of occupants is 4.

[0187] In step S1130, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can control the blower (1003) so that wind is discharged at the wind volume determined in step S1120.

[0188] For example, when the air volume corresponding to the number of occupants is 'gentle breeze', the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to the RPM corresponding to the gentle breeze. When the air volume corresponding to the number of occupants is 'strong breeze', the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the RPM of the blower (1003) to the RPM corresponding to the strong breeze.

[0189] Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the number of occupants using a radar sensor (1001), and adjust the air volume to be higher as the number of occupants increases, thereby allowing the indoor temperature to quickly reach the set temperature (desired temperature).

[0190] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to control the air volume according to the number of occupants and the amount of activity of the occupants.

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can acquire the number of occupants and their activity levels using a radar sensor (1001), and adaptively adjust the air volume by considering both the number of occupants and their activity levels. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine a higher air volume when the number of occupants is large and the activity level of each occupant is large, and can determine a lower air volume when the number of occupants is small and the activity level of each occupant is small.

[0192] Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can provide a comfortable cooling environment to occupants by automatically adjusting the air volume according to the number of occupants and the amount of activity of the occupants.

[0193] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a method for adjusting the angle of a blade (1004) based on the position of an occupant in an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 13, a method for adjusting an angle of a blade (1004) based on a position of an occupant by an air conditioner (1000) may include steps S1310 to S1360. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S1310 to S1360 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for adjusting an angle of a blade (1004) based on a position of an occupant by an air conditioner (1000) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 13, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 13 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0195] In step S1310, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can detect at least one occupant through the radar sensor (1001). For example, if a person is present within the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001), the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) can receive information about the location of at least one occupant from the radar sensor (1001).

[0196] In step S1320, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether the currently set operation mode is a direct wind mode when at least one occupant is detected.

[0197] The direct wind mode may be a mode in which the wind discharged from the air conditioner (1000) is directed directly at the occupant. If the user wants the wind to be directed directly at the user, the user may set the direct wind mode using the input interface of the air conditioner (1000) or the user terminal (4000). For example, the user may set the direct wind mode for the air conditioner (1000) using the remote control of the air conditioner (1000). If the user selects the direct wind mode on the remote control, the remote control may transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the direct wind mode via infrared communication. In addition, the user may select the direct wind mode by executing a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application) on the user terminal (4000). At this time, the user terminal (4000) may transmit information indicating that the user has selected the direct wind mode to the server (2000), and the server (2000) may transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the direct wind mode.

[0198] In step S1330, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed directly toward at least one occupant if the currently set operation mode is the direct wind mode (Yes in S1320).

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the direct wind mode is set, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the location of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001) and adjust the left and right angles of the blades (1004) (e.g., vertical blades) so that the wind is directed directly toward the occupant. For example, when the occupant is located at the left front side of the air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blades (1004) to the left so that the wind is discharged to the left, and when the occupant is located at the right front side of the air conditioner, the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blades (1004) to the right so that the wind is discharged to the right.

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may detect the distance to an occupant or the coordinates of the occupant to control long wind or short wind. For example, the air conditioner (1000) may adjust the up-and-down angle of the blade (1004) (e.g., horizontal blade) to discharge long wind when the occupant is far from the air conditioner (1000), and may adjust the up-and-down angle of the blade (1004) (e.g., horizontal blade) to discharge short wind when the occupant is close to the air conditioner (1000). Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the direct wind mode is set, the air conditioner (1000) may track the position of the occupant regardless of whether the occupant is far or close to the air conditioner (1000) and automatically adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed directly toward the occupant. In addition, the air conditioner (1000) can adaptively and precisely adjust the up-down or left-right angle of the blade (1004) by tracking the position of the occupant even if the occupant moves.

[0201] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when multiple occupants are detected through the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed alternately toward the multiple occupants. For example, when a first person is located on the front left side of the air conditioner (1000) and a second person is located on the front right side of the air conditioner (1000), the angle of the blade (1004) can be adjusted so that the wind remains on the first person and the second person for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 minute, 30 seconds, etc.). That is, after adjusting the angle of the blade (1004) to the left so that the wind is directed toward the first person, after one minute has passed, the angle of the blade (1004) can be adjusted to the right so that the wind is directed toward the second person, after another minute has passed, the angle of the blade (1004) can be adjusted to the left so that the wind is directed toward the first person, and after another minute has passed, the angle of the blade (1004) can be adjusted to the right so that the wind is directed toward the second person.

[0202] In step S1340, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether the currently set operation mode is the indirect wind mode if the currently set operation mode is not the direct wind mode (No in S1320).

[0203] Indirect wind mode may be a mode in which the wind discharged from the air conditioner (1000) is not directed toward the occupant. If the user does not want the wind to be directed toward the user, the user may set the indirect wind mode using the input interface of the air conditioner (1000) or the user terminal (4000). For example, the user may set the indirect wind mode for the air conditioner (1000) using the remote control of the air conditioner (1000). If the user selects the indirect wind mode from the remote control, the remote control may transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the indirect wind mode via infrared communication. In addition, the user may select the indirect wind mode by executing a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application) on the user terminal (4000). At this time, the user terminal (4000) may transmit information indicating that the user has selected the indirect wind mode to the server (2000), and the server (2000) may transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the indirect wind mode.

[0204] In step S1350, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed outside a predetermined radius from at least one occupant if the currently set operation mode is an indirect wind mode (Yes in S1340).

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the indirect wind mode is set, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the location of an occupant through a radar sensor (1001) and adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that wind is discharged to a location where the occupant is not located. For example, when the occupant is on the right side of the air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) to the left so that wind is discharged to the left, and when the occupant is on the left side of the air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) to the right so that wind is discharged to the right.

[0206] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can adaptively adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind does not blow toward the occupant by tracking the position of the occupant through the radar sensor (1001), even if the occupant moves.

[0207] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when multiple occupants are detected through the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is discharged to coordinates where not all of the multiple occupants are located. For example, when a first person is located at the front left of the air conditioner (1000) and a second person is located at the front right of the air conditioner (1000), the left and right angles of the blade (1004) (e.g., vertical blades) can be adjusted so that the wind is discharged to the front center of the air conditioner (1000), thereby causing the wind to be discharged away from both the first person and the second person. In addition, when the first person and the second person are located near the air conditioner (1000), the up and down angles of the blade (1004) (e.g., horizontal blades) can be adjusted so that the wind is discharged away.

[0208] In step S1360, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may maintain the angle of the blade (1004) at a preset angle if the currently set operation mode is neither the direct wind mode nor the indirect wind mode (No in S1340). That is, if the direct wind mode or the indirect wind mode is not set, the air conditioner (1000) may not adjust the angle of the blade (1004) depending on the position of the occupant.

[0209] The occupant detection sensors (e.g., PIR sensors) installed in general air conditioners cannot accurately determine the location of occupants. They can only notify the processor (e.g., MCU) of the presence of a person within a predefined area. Therefore, general air conditioners divide the airflow into two or three zones when controlling the wind direction. Furthermore, because the occupant detection sensors (e.g., PIR sensors) installed in general air conditioners cannot determine distance, they cannot determine whether a person is near or far from the detection area. Consequently, in general air conditioners, the user must use a remote control to control the long or short wind function, which is inconvenient.

[0210] However, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can precisely identify the location of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001) when a user sets the indirect wind mode or direct wind mode, thereby allowing for precise control of the wind direction.

[0211] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for setting a direct wind mode or an indirect wind mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0212] Referring to FIG. 14, a user can easily set indirect wind mode or direct wind mode using a user terminal (4000). For example, a user can run a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application) on the user terminal (4000). The user can then select indirect wind (1410) or direct wind (1420) depending on the situation. For example, if the user is exercising or cleaning indoors, the user can select direct wind (1420). Alternatively, if the user is sleeping or sitting and reading a book, the user can select indirect wind (1410).

[0213] When a user selects indirect wind (1410) or direct wind (1420), the user terminal (4000) can transmit information about the user's selection to the server (2000). At this time, the server (2000) can transmit a control command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the indirect wind mode or direct wind mode according to the user's selection. The air conditioner (1000) can set the indirect wind mode or direct wind mode according to the control command of the server (2000) and continuously detect the user's location using the radar sensor (1001).

[0214] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to adjust the angle of a blade based on the position of an occupant.

[0215] Referring to 1500-1 of FIG. 15, a user can set the air conditioner (1000) to direct wind mode before riding an indoor bicycle. When the user rides an indoor bicycle, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the user's location using a radar sensor (1001) and adjust the angle of the blade (1004) to direct wind toward the user. Therefore, the user can enjoy a cool ride on the indoor bicycle.

[0216] Meanwhile, when the user finishes riding the indoor bike and sits on the sofa, the air conditioner (1000) may track the user's location and adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed toward the sofa.

[0217] Referring to 1500-2 of FIG. 15, if the user does not want to be directly exposed to the wind, the user can set the air conditioner (1000) to an indirect wind mode. If the user sets the indirect wind mode and then sits on the sofa to watch TV, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the user's location and adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind does not blow toward the sofa where the user is sitting.

[0218] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may detect the absence of a user using a radar sensor (1001). Hereinafter, the operating method of the air conditioner (1000) when detecting the absence of a user will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 16 to 23.

[0219] FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining a method in which an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure operates in an energy saving mode when the absence of an occupant is detected.

[0220] Referring to FIG. 16, a method for operating an air conditioner (1000) in a power saving mode when the absence of an occupant is detected may include steps S1610 to S1680. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S1610 to S1680 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for operating an air conditioner (1000) in a power saving mode when the absence of an occupant is detected is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 16, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 16 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0221] In step S1610, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can operate in a normal mode when an occupant turns on the power of the air conditioner (1000).

[0222] The normal mode may be a mode that operates at a specific wind speed. Here, the specific wind speed may be a wind speed selected by the user, or a wind speed selected by the air conditioner (1000) based on the activity level or number of occupants. For example, the normal mode may be one of the following: breeze mode, low wind mode, strong wind mode, or turbo mode.

[0223] In step S1620, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can detect the absence of an occupant through a radar sensor (1001).

[0224] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when an occupant goes out while leaving the air conditioner (1000) turned on, the air conditioner (1000) can identify that the occupant has left the detection area through the radar sensor (1001). When the occupant has left the detection area, the radar sensor (1001) can no longer detect the location (movement) of the occupant. Accordingly, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) can detect the absence of the occupant when the location information (movement information) of the occupant is no longer received from the radar sensor (1001).

[0225] In step S1630, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether the occupant remains absent for a first predetermined period of time after detecting the absence of the occupant. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the occupant remains absent for 60 minutes after detecting the absence of the occupant through the radar sensor (1001).

[0226] If an occupant is detected again through the radar sensor (1001) within the first predetermined time (e.g., 60 minutes) (No of S1630), the air conditioner (1000) may not switch to the power saving mode and may continue to maintain the normal mode. For example, if a user goes out for about 20 minutes with the air conditioner (1000) turned on and then returns, the air conditioner (1000) may detect the occupant again 20 minutes after detecting the absence of the occupant. Accordingly, since the absence of the occupant was not maintained for the first predetermined time (e.g., 60 minutes), the air conditioner (1000) may not switch to the power saving mode and may continue to operate at the current wind speed.

[0227] In step S1640, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can change the operation mode of the air conditioner (1000) from a normal mode in which it operates at a specific wind speed to a windless mode when the absence of an occupant is detected through the radar sensor (1001) for a first predetermined period of time (Yes in S1630).

[0228] The windless mode may be a mode in which the blades (1004) are closed and the windless panel (e.g., micro holes that generate fine cold air) is used to create a comfortable indoor environment. The windless mode may be a mode in which occupants can feel a gentle coolness without being directly exposed to the wind while using less electricity.

[0229] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can switch from a normal mode to a windless mode to save energy when the absence of an occupant is maintained for a first predetermined period of time (e.g., 60 minutes). When switching to the windless mode, the air conditioner (1000) can close the blades (1004) and control the blower (1003) to reduce the wind volume (wind speed).

[0230] In step S1650, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether the occupant remains absent for a second predetermined period of time after switching to the wind-free mode. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine, through the radar sensor (1001), whether the occupant remains absent for 20 minutes after switching to the wind-free mode.

[0231] If an occupant is detected again by the radar sensor (1001) within a second predetermined time (e.g., 20 minutes) after switching to the wind-free mode (No of S1650), the air conditioner (1000) can switch the wind-free mode to a normal mode with a specific wind volume. For example, if a user sets the air conditioner (1000) to strong wind mode, goes out, and then returns home 10 minutes after the strong wind mode has switched to wind-free mode, the air conditioner (1000) can release the wind-free mode and operate in strong wind mode again.

[0232] In step S1660, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may change the windless mode to a soft-off mode in which the cooling operation is stopped if the radar sensor (1001) continues to detect the absence of an occupant for a second predetermined period of time after changing to the windless mode. The soft-off mode may also be expressed as a standby mode.

[0233] The soft-off mode may be a mode in which the radar sensor (1001) and at least one processor (1021) remain activated, while the heat exchanger (1002), blower (1003), and blades (1004) are deactivated.

[0234] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may switch from a windless mode to a soft-off mode to save energy when the absence of an occupant is maintained for a second predetermined period of time (e.g., 20 minutes). When switching to the soft-off mode, the air conditioner (1000) may stop the operation of the blower (1003).

[0235] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (1000) switches from the no-wind mode to the soft-off mode, the air conditioner (1000) may control the blower (1003) to briefly perform a drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) before stopping the operation of the blower (1003). For example, the air conditioner (1000) may completely stop the blowing operation after briefly performing an operation to dry moisture formed on the heat exchanger (1002) in the blowing mode to prevent mold from forming. At this time, the air conditioner (1000) may adjust the RPM (or power consumption) of the blower (1003) to a preset RPM (or power consumption) corresponding to the drying operation.

[0236] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can perform a drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) for a preset period of time (e.g., 10 minutes). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can perform the drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) until the humidity measured by the humidity sensor becomes lower than the threshold humidity. When the drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) is completed, the air conditioner (1000) can stop the operation of the blower (1003) and remain in a standby state.

[0237] In step S1670, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may determine whether the occupant remains absent for a third predetermined period of time after switching to the soft-off mode. For example, the air conditioner (1000) may determine, through the radar sensor (1001), whether the occupant remains absent for 20 minutes after switching to the soft-off mode.

[0238] If an occupant is detected again by the radar sensor (1001) within a third predetermined time (e.g., 20 minutes) after switching to the soft off mode (No of S1670), the air conditioner (1000) can switch the soft off mode to a normal mode with a specific wind volume. For example, if a user sets the air conditioner (1000) to the strong wind mode and goes out, and then returns home 10 minutes after the operation mode of the air conditioner (1000) has switched to the soft off mode, the air conditioner (1000) can release the soft off mode and operate in the strong wind mode again.

[0239] In step S1680, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may turn off the power of the air conditioner (1000) if the absence of an occupant is continuously detected through the radar sensor (1001) for a third predetermined period of time after changing to the soft off mode.

[0240] When the power of the air conditioner (1000) is turned off, the radar sensor (1001) and the processor (1021) may also be deactivated. Therefore, even if the occupant returns after the power of the air conditioner (1000) is turned off, the air conditioner (1000) cannot detect the occupant through the radar sensor (1001), and therefore, the occupant must turn the power of the air conditioner (1000) back on when cooling is required.

[0241] That is, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user goes out for a long time with the air conditioner (1000) turned on, energy can be saved by stopping the operation of the air conditioner (1000) after a certain period of time. Meanwhile, since the user may go out and return quickly, the air conditioner (1000) may not immediately turn off the power of the air conditioner (1000) even if the absence of an occupant is detected, but may gradually change the operation mode to a normal mode, a wind-free mode, and a soft-off mode in that order. Accordingly, when the air conditioner (1000) detects an occupant again through the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can quickly return to the normal mode.

[0242] FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining a method for adjusting the energy-saving operation time of an air conditioner (1000) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure according to an absence pattern of an occupant.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 17, a method for adjusting an operating time of an air conditioner (1000) according to an absence pattern of an occupant may include steps S1710 to S1730. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S1710 to S1730 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for adjusting an operating time of an air conditioner (1000) according to an absence pattern of an occupant is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 17, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 17 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0244] In step S1710, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can learn the absence time of the occupant.

[0245] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can collect data regarding the absence of an occupant through the radar sensor (1001). For example, if the occupant goes out while leaving the air conditioner (1000) turned on, the air conditioner (1000) can identify that the occupant is absent because he or she has left the detection area through the radar sensor (1001). The air conditioner (1000) can collect data regarding the time at which the occupant is absent, data regarding the time at which the occupant goes out and returns, data regarding the total time during which the occupant is absent, data regarding the time period during which the occupant is absent, etc.

[0246] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can learn the absence time of an occupant based on data regarding the absence of an occupant obtained through a radar sensor (1001). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can input data regarding the absence of an occupant into an artificial intelligence model (AI model) and teach the AI ​​model the absence time of the occupant.

[0247] In step S1720, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can infer the absence pattern of the occupant.

[0248] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can infer the absence pattern of an occupant using an AI model. For example, when the air conditioner (1000) inputs data regarding the absence of an occupant obtained through a radar sensor (1001) into the AI ​​model, the AI ​​model can learn the data regarding the absence of an occupant and infer the absence pattern of the occupant.

[0249] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can infer whether the occupant's stay time is short or long. Furthermore, the air conditioner (1000) can infer whether the occupant briefly goes out for less than 20 minutes and then returns, or whether the occupant goes out for a long time, more than 2 hours, and then returns. The air conditioner (1000) can also infer whether the occupant stays long at night and short during the day, or vice versa.

[0250] In step S1730, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the power saving operation time of the air conditioner (1000) according to the absence pattern of the occupant. That is, the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the time from the time when the absence of the occupant is detected through the radar sensor (1001) until the power of the air conditioner (1000) is turned off.

[0251] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can adjust at least one of a first predetermined time for switching from a normal mode to a wind-free mode, a second predetermined time for switching from the wind-free mode to a soft-off mode, or a third predetermined time for switching from the soft-off mode to a hard-off mode (power off) based on the absence pattern of the occupant. For example, if the air conditioner (1000) analyzes the absence pattern of the occupant and finds that the occupant has a short time of stay and frequently goes out for long periods of time (e.g., leaves the detection area), the air conditioner (1000) can shorten the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time. That is, if the user frequently goes out for long periods of time shortly after turning on the air conditioner (1000), the air conditioner (1000) can switch in the following order: normal mode, wind-free mode, soft-off mode, and hard-off mode at short intervals. In this case, the overall operating time of the air conditioner (1000) is reduced, thereby further saving energy. The operation of the air conditioner (1000) to adjust the energy-saving operation time will be further examined with reference to FIG. 18.

[0252] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to adjust the energy-saving operation time according to the absence pattern of an occupant.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 18, an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when detecting the absence of an occupant, may maintain a normal mode with a specific wind volume for 60 minutes, and then, after 60 minutes, may switch the normal mode to a wind-free mode in order to save energy. If the air conditioner (1000) switches to the wind-free mode and the absence of an occupant continues for another 30 minutes, the air conditioner (1000) may switch from the wind-free mode to a soft-off mode in which the cooling function is terminated. If the absence of an occupant continues for another 30 minutes even after switching to the soft-off mode, the air conditioner (1000) may completely turn off the power. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if the air conditioner (1000) is absent for 120 minutes, in order to save energy, the air conditioner (1000) may switch from the normal mode to the wind-free mode, then to the soft-off mode, and then turn off the power.

[0254] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) learns the absence time of the occupant, and if the absence time of the occupant is short, the power-saving operation time can be shortened. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can shorten the first predetermined time (1801) for switching from the normal mode to the wind-free mode from 60 minutes to 30 minutes, the second predetermined time (1802) for switching from the wind-free mode to the soft-off mode from 30 minutes to 10 minutes, and the third predetermined time (1803) for switching from the soft-off mode to the hard-off mode from 30 minutes to 10 minutes. That is, if the absence time of the occupant is short, the air conditioner (1000) can maintain the normal mode for only 30 minutes after detecting the absence of the occupant, and then switch to the wind-free mode. If the air conditioner (1000) switches to the windless mode and the absence of the occupant continues for 10 minutes, the air conditioner (1000) may switch from the windless mode to the soft-off mode. If the absence of the occupant continues for a fourth predetermined period of time (1804) (e.g., 10 minutes) after switching to the soft-off mode, the air conditioner (1000) may completely turn off the power.

[0255] Accordingly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can shorten the time from the time of detecting absence until the power is turned off (power saving operation time) from 120 minutes to 50 minutes when the occupant is absent, in which case the occupant's presence time is short. That is, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, inefficient operation (of the air conditioner (1000)) when the occupant is absent can be eliminated, thereby reducing energy costs and maintenance of the air conditioner (1000).

[0256] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a GUI for setting a power saving mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0257] A user can execute a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application) on a user terminal (4000). At this time, the user terminal (4000) can display an execution window of the specific application. The execution window of the specific application can display a list of the user's home appliances registered in the server (2000). The user can select an air conditioner icon in the execution window of the specific application to enter a settings screen for the air conditioner (1000). The user can select an absent power-saving item (1901) on the settings screen for the air conditioner (1000).

[0258] When a user selects an absent power saving item (1901), the user terminal (4000) can transmit information that the absent power saving item (1901) has been selected to the server (2000). When the server (2000) receives information from the user terminal (4000) that the absent power saving item (1901) has been selected, it can transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the absent power saving mode.

[0259] The air conditioner (1000) can set an absent power saving mode according to a command from the server (2000). For example, if the movement of an occupant is not detected through the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can perform a power saving operation by switching from the normal mode to the windless mode, soft-off mode, and hard-off mode (power off) in that order.

[0260] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method for IoT devices connected to an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to switch to a power saving mode.

[0261] In step S2010, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can detect the absence of an occupant through a radar sensor (1001).

[0262] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if an occupant goes out while leaving the air conditioner (1000) turned on, the occupant may leave the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001). If the occupant leaves the detection area, the radar sensor (1001) can no longer detect the location (movement) of the occupant. Accordingly, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) can detect the absence of the occupant when location information (movement information) of the occupant is no longer received from the radar sensor (1001).

[0263] In step S2020, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when detecting the absence of an occupant, may transmit information related to the absence of the occupant to the server (2000).

[0264] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can transmit information related to the absence of a resident to the server (2000) via a communication interface (1030, see FIG. 8). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can transmit information regarding the current absence of a resident, information regarding the time of detection of the absence of a resident, information regarding the time of absence, etc. to the server (2000).

[0265] In step S2030, the server (2000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when receiving information related to the absence of an occupant from the air conditioner (1000), can check the operating status of IoT devices. For example, the server (2000) can identify at least one IoT device (3000) currently in operation among IoT devices registered to the server (2000) with the same account as the air conditioner (1000).

[0266] In step S2040, the server (2000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may transmit a power-saving command to at least one IoT device (3000) currently in operation. For example, the server (2000) may transmit a command to at least one IoT device (3000) currently in operation to operate in power-saving mode or to turn off the power in order to save energy when the occupant is absent.

[0267] In step S2050, when an IoT device (3000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure receives a power saving command from a server (2000), it may switch to power saving mode or turn off the power.

[0268] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if a separate power saving mode exists in the IoT device (3000), the IoT device (3000) can save energy costs by switching from a normal mode to a power saving mode. Conversely, if the IoT device (3000) does not have a separate power saving mode, the IoT device (3000) can also save energy costs by turning off the power.

[0269] Accordingly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (1000) detects the absence of an occupant through the radar sensor (1001), multiple IoT devices within the space where the air conditioner (1000) is installed can also switch to power-saving mode, thereby saving energy. The operation of multiple IoT devices switching to power-saving mode will be further examined with reference to FIG. 21.

[0270] FIG. 21 is a drawing for explaining an operation in which IoT devices connected to an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure switch to a power saving mode.

[0271] Referring to Fig. 21, when a user goes out with the air conditioner (1000) turned on, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the absence of the user through the radar sensor (1001) and operate in power saving mode after a certain period of time.

[0272] Meanwhile, if the air conditioner (1000) detects the absence of an occupant, it can transmit information about the absence of the occupant to the server (2000). At this time, if the occupant does not return even after a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 hour) has passed, the server (2000) can transmit a power-saving command to the IoT devices that are currently operating. For example, if a TV (3001), an air purifier (3002), a first lighting device (3003), and a second lighting device (3004) installed in the same space as the air conditioner (1000) are currently operating, the server (2000) can transmit a power-saving command to each of the TV (3001), the air purifier (3002), the first lighting device (3003), and the second lighting device (3004). In this case, the TV (3001), air purifier (3002), first lighting device (3003), and second lighting device (3004) can switch to power saving mode or be turned off.

[0273] Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a person is absent, the air conditioner (1000) can save energy costs by switching other home appliances connected through the server (2000) to power saving mode or turning off the power.

[0274] FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a security detection notification.

[0275] In step S2210, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can set an away security mode according to an input from an occupant.

[0276] Away security mode may be a mode that provides a notification to the user when unintended movement is detected inside the home while the user is away. When the air conditioner (1000) operates in away security mode, the cooling (or heating) function may be deactivated, and the radar sensor (1001), processor (1021), and communication interface (1030) may be activated to detect unintended movement inside the home.

[0277] In step S2220, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether movement is detected through the radar sensor (1001) while operating in the away security mode. For example, if an outsider enters the detection area of ​​the radar sensor (1001), the air conditioner (1000) can detect the movement of the outsider through the radar sensor (1001). The outsider may be a person other than the user, such as an intruder, a family member, or a babysitter, but is not limited thereto.

[0278] In step S2230, when the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure detects movement while operating in the away security mode, it may transmit information indicating that the movement has been detected to the server (2000). For example, the processor (1021) of the air conditioner (1000) may transmit information indicating that the movement has been detected to the server (2000) via the communication interface (1030).

[0279] In step S2240, when the server (2000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure receives information that movement has been detected from the air conditioner (1000), it can transmit information that the air conditioner (1000) has detected movement to the user terminal (4000).

[0280] For example, the server (2000) can identify a user terminal (4000) (e.g., a smart phone) registered with the same account as the air conditioner (1000) and transmit information to the user terminal (4000) that the air conditioner (1000) has detected movement in the home.

[0281] In step S2250, the user terminal (4000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may output a notification if it receives information that the air conditioner (1000) has detected movement. For example, the user terminal (4000) may output a security detection notification indicating that movement has been detected in the home while in away security mode through a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application).

[0282] At this time, the user can confirm that another family member has returned home while out, or that an outsider has intruded without permission, through the notification displayed on the user terminal (4000).

[0283] Accordingly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can enhance home security by detecting unintended movement within the home using a radar sensor (1001) and providing a security detection notification to the user. The operation of the user terminal (4000) outputting the security detection notification will be further described with reference to FIG. 23.

[0284] FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining an operation of a user terminal (4000) outputting a security detection notification according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0285] Referring to 2300-1 of FIG. 23, a user may execute a specific application (e.g., a home appliance management application) on a user terminal (4000). The user may then select an item (2310) for activating an away-from-home security mode from the execution window of the specific application. At this time, the user terminal (4000) may transmit information indicating that a user input for activating the away-from-home security mode has been received to the server (2000). The server (2000) may transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to set the away-from-home security mode based on the user input for activating the away-from-home security mode.

[0286] The air conditioner (1000) can set an away security mode according to a command from the server (2000) and monitor whether unintended movement is detected using a radar sensor (1001).

[0287] Referring to 2300-2 of FIG. 23, if an outsider trespasses into a home without permission, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the movement of the outsider using the radar sensor (1001). The air conditioner (1000) can transmit information that the movement of the outsider has been detected to the server (2000), and the server (2000) can transmit information that the movement of the outsider has been detected in the air conditioner (1000) to the user terminal (4000). At this time, the user terminal (4000) can output a security detection notification (2320) indicating that unintended movement has been detected on the screen. In FIG. 23, a case where the security detection notification (2320) is visually displayed is illustrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The user terminal (4000) can also output a voice message or a warning sound through a speaker indicating that movement has been detected in the home. Users can check security detection notifications (2320) and quickly take appropriate measures for security.

[0288] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can disable the away-from-home security mode before returning home. For example, the user can perform an input to disable the away-from-home security mode on the user terminal (4000). At this time, the user terminal (4000) can transmit information indicating that a user input to disable the away-from-home security mode has been received to the server (2000). Based on the user input to disable the away-from-home security mode, the server (2000) can transmit a command to the air conditioner (1000) to disable the away-from-home security mode.

[0289] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, even if the user does not disable the away security mode before returning home, if the server (2000) obtains information that the user terminal (4000) is located at home through an application installed on the user terminal (4000), a command to disable the away security mode can be transmitted to the air conditioner (1000). For example, the user terminal (4000) can periodically transmit information about its current location to the server (2000) through an application linked to the server (2000). When the user returns home with the user terminal (4000), the user terminal (4000) can identify that it is currently located at home based on location information obtained through GPS or connection status information with the router, and transmit information indicating that it is located at home to the server (2000). Since the user terminal (4000) can be regarded as having returned home if it is located at home, the server (2000) can transmit a command to disable the away security mode to the air conditioner (1000).

[0290] FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a notification urging an occupant to increase their activity level.

[0291] Referring to FIG. 24, a method for an air conditioner (1000) to output a notification urging an occupant to increase their activity level may include steps S2410 to S2430. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S2410 to S2430 may be executed by at least one processor included in the air conditioner (1000). The method for an air conditioner (1000) to output a notification urging an occupant to increase their activity level is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 24, and in one or more embodiments, steps not illustrated in FIG. 24 may be further included, or some steps may be omitted.

[0292] In step S2410, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can identify the activity level of at least one occupant.

[0293] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can detect the movement of an occupant based on a change in coordinates measured by a radar sensor (1001). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can identify the activity level of the occupant by calculating the movement distance per second of the occupant based on the change in coordinates of the occupant measured by the radar sensor (1001). The air conditioner (1000) can identify that the activity level of the occupant is high as the movement distance per second of the occupant is large, and can identify that the activity level of the occupant is low as the movement distance per second of the occupant is small.

[0294] In step S2420, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine whether the activity level of at least one occupant is less than a threshold activity level.

[0295] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the activity level of an occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time. The threshold activity level for the predetermined period of time can be predefined. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can determine whether the activity level of an occupant is below a threshold activity level (e.g., 10%) for 30 minutes. The predetermined period of time is not limited to 30 minutes and can be arbitrarily selected or changed by the user.

[0296] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can continuously monitor the activity level of the occupant if the activity level of the occupant is greater than or equal to a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time (No in S2420).

[0297] In step S2430, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may output a notification urging an increase in the activity level of the occupant if the activity level of the occupant is less than a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time (Yes in S2420).

[0298] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if the activity level of at least one occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time, the air conditioner (1000) may output a notification urging an increase in activity level through a speaker of the air conditioner (1000), a display of the air conditioner (1000), and / or a user terminal (4000) connected via a server (2000). For example, if the air conditioner (1000) monitors the activity level of the occupant using a radar sensor (1001) and finds that the occupant is hardly moving for a long period of time, the air conditioner (1000) may visually and / or audibly output a notification message inducing movement of the occupant for the sake of the occupant's health.

[0299] Users can check notifications urging them to increase their activity level and increase their activity level for their health. The operation of the air conditioner (1000) to output notifications urging them to increase their activity level will be further discussed with reference to FIG. 25.

[0300] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining an operation of an air conditioner (1000) or a user terminal (4000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to output a notification urging an increase in the activity level of an occupant.

[0301] Referring to Fig. 25, a user can watch a movie on a smartphone for a long time while sitting on a sofa. At this time, the air conditioner (1000) can monitor the activity level of the occupant using a radar sensor (1001). Since the user is sitting on the sofa, the activity level of the occupant calculated by the air conditioner (1000) may be close to 0. As a result of monitoring the activity level of the occupant, the air conditioner (1000) can output a notification urging an increase in the activity level because the activity level of the occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 hour). For example, the air conditioner (1000) can output a voice notification (2501) through a speaker, saying, “It’s time to move~.”

[0302] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, if the activity level of an occupant is less than a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 hour), the air conditioner (1000) may transmit information to the server (2000) that the activity level of the occupant is less than the threshold activity level. At this time, the server (2000) may transmit a command to the user terminal (4000) to output a notification urging an increase in activity level. The user terminal (4000) may output a notification message (2502) such as “How about getting up for a moment?” in the application execution window according to the command of the server (2000).

[0303] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may periodically transmit information on the activity level of the occupant to the server (2000). At this time, if the activity level of the occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time, the server (2000) may transmit a command to output a notification urging an increase in activity level to the user terminal (4000).

[0304] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can check a notification output from an air conditioner (1000) or a user terminal (4000) and increase the amount of activity for health.

[0305] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can measure the heart rate or respiratory rate of an occupant using a radar sensor (1001). If the heart rate or respiratory rate of the occupant is out of a reference range, the air conditioner (1000) can output a notification related to the health status. For example, the air conditioner (1000) can output a voice notification (2503) asking “Are you feeling well?” through a speaker. In addition, if the heart rate or respiratory rate of the occupant is out of a reference range, the air conditioner (1000) can transmit information to the server (2000) that the heart rate or respiratory rate of the occupant is unstable. At this time, the server (2000) can transmit information that the heart rate or respiratory rate of the occupant is unstable to a pre-designated terminal (e.g., a user terminal (4000), a family terminal, a medical institution terminal, etc.).

[0306] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner may be provided that detects the location of an occupant using a radar sensor and provides various convenient services to the occupant based on the location of the occupant.

[0307] An air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit body (1010) including a heat exchanger (1002), a blower (1003), and a blade (1004); a radar sensor (1001) provided facing the floor inside the indoor unit body (1010); a memory (1022) storing one or more instructions; and at least one processor (1021). The at least one processor (1021) may obtain information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000) by using the radar sensor (1001) by executing the one or more instructions. The at least one processor (1021) may identify an activity level of the at least one occupant by using the information on the location of the at least one occupant. The at least one processor (1021) may determine an air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the activity level of the at least one occupant. At least one processor (1021) can control the blower (1003) to blow air at a determined air volume. Therefore, the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide comfort to the occupants by adaptively adjusting the air volume according to the activity level of the occupants using the radar sensor (1001). For example, when the activity level of the occupants is high, the air conditioner (1000) can adjust the air volume to a high level so that the indoor temperature quickly reaches the set temperature.

[0308] An indoor unit body (1010) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a sensor mounting portion (1011) on which a radar sensor (1001) is mounted so that it is inclined at a predetermined angle and faces the floor. The predetermined angle may be one of 50 degrees to 70 degrees when the indoor unit body (1010) is positioned on one side of the ceiling. The predetermined angle may be one of 60 degrees to 65 degrees. For example, the predetermined angle may be 63 degrees. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the radar sensor (1001) is inclined at a predetermined angle and faces the floor, the detection range of the radar sensor (1001) may be expanded.

[0309] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can determine the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the number of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000). The air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the air volume according to the number of occupants, thereby allowing the indoor temperature to quickly reach a set temperature when there are many occupants.

[0310] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one processor (1021) may change the operation mode of the air conditioner (1000) from a normal mode in which the air conditioner operates at a specific wind speed to a windless mode in which the blades (1004) are closed when the absence of an occupant is detected for a first predetermined period of time through the radar sensor (1001). If the absence of an occupant is continuously detected for a second predetermined period of time after changing to the windless mode, the at least one processor (1021) may change the windless mode to a soft-off mode in which the cooling operation is stopped. If the absence of an occupant is continuously detected for a third predetermined period of time through the radar sensor (1001) after changing to the soft-off mode, the at least one processor (1021) may turn off the power of the air conditioner (1000). Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may reduce energy costs by gradually switching to a power-saving mode when an occupant is absent.

[0311] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one processor (1021) can infer the absence pattern of an occupant using an AI model. The at least one processor (1021) can adjust the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, or the third predetermined time based on the absence pattern of the occupant. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can reduce energy costs by shortening the power-saving operation time based on the absence pattern of the occupant.

[0312] In a soft-off mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the radar sensor (1001) and at least one processor (1021) may be activated, and the heat exchanger (1002), the blower (1003), and the blades (1004) may be deactivated.

[0313] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may change the wind-free mode to a normal mode operating at a specific wind speed when at least one occupant is detected by the radar sensor (1001) within a second predetermined time after changing to the wind-free mode. At least one processor (1021) may change the soft-off mode to a normal mode operating at a specific wind speed when at least one occupant is detected by the radar sensor within a third predetermined time after changing to the soft-off mode. The air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may quickly return to the normal mode when it detects again an occupant who has gone out by using the radar sensor (1001).

[0314] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can control the blower (1003) to perform a drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) when changing the windless mode to a soft-off mode. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can prevent mold and the like from growing by performing a drying operation on the heat exchanger (1002) when no one is present.

[0315] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may, when the absence of an occupant is detected through the radar sensor (1001), transmit information related to the absence of the occupant to the server (2000). Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (1000) detects the absence of an occupant, the server (2000) may also switch other IoT devices installed in the same space as the air conditioner (1000) to power-saving mode, thereby reducing energy costs.

[0316] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can set an away security mode based on an occupant's input. When the at least one processor (1021) detects movement through the radar sensor (1001) while operating in the away security mode, the processor (1021) can output a notification that the movement has been detected through a user terminal (4000) connected to the server (2000). Therefore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) can enhance the security of a home by using the radar sensor (1001).

[0317] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one processor (1021) may, upon receiving an input for setting a direct wind mode, adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed directly toward at least one occupant based on the position of at least one occupant detected through the radar sensor (1001). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may precisely adjust the angle of the blade (1004) by accurately detecting the position of the occupant using the radar sensor (1001).

[0318] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed alternately toward the plurality of occupants when detecting multiple occupants through the radar sensor (1001).

[0319] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when receiving an input for setting an indirect wind mode, can adjust the angle of the blade (1004) so ​​that the wind is directed outside a predetermined radius from at least one occupant based on the location of at least one occupant detected through the radar sensor (1001).

[0320] At least one processor (1021) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may output a notification urging an increase in activity level through a speaker of the air conditioner (1000), a display of the air conditioner (1000), or a user terminal (4000) connected via a server (2000) when the activity level of at least one occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time. Accordingly, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (1000) may also manage the health of occupants by using a radar sensor (1001).

[0321] A method for controlling the operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step (S910) of obtaining information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000) using a radar sensor (1001) provided inside an indoor unit body (1010) facing the floor; a step (S920) of identifying an activity level of at least one occupant using the information on the location of at least one occupant; a step (S930) of determining an air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the activity level of at least one occupant; and a step (S940) of controlling a blower (1003) of the air conditioner (1000) so that wind is discharged at the determined air volume.

[0322] An indoor unit body (1010) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a sensor mounting portion (1011) on which a radar sensor (1001) is mounted so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle and facing the floor surface.

[0323] The step of determining the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step (S1120) of determining the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) based on the number of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000).

[0324] A method for controlling the operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step of changing the operation mode of the air conditioner (1000) from a normal mode in which the air conditioner operates at a specific wind speed to a windless mode in which the blades (1004) are closed when the absence of an occupant is detected through the radar sensor for a first predetermined period of time; a step of changing the windless mode to a soft-off mode in which the cooling operation is stopped when the absence of an occupant is continuously detected through the radar sensor (1001) for a second predetermined period of time after changing to the windless mode; and a step of turning off the power of the air conditioner when the absence of an occupant is continuously detected through the radar sensor (1001) for a third predetermined period of time after changing to the soft-off mode.

[0325] A method for controlling the operation of an air conditioner (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step (S1720) of inferring an absence pattern of an occupant using an AI model; and a step (S1730) of adjusting a first predetermined time, a second predetermined time, or a third predetermined time according to the absence pattern of the occupant.

[0326] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0327] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

Claims

1. In an air conditioner (1000) including an indoor unit body (1010) including a heat exchanger (1002), a blower (1003), and a blade (1004), A radar sensor (1001) provided inside the indoor unit body and detecting at least one person; and The above radar sensor includes a sensor mounting portion (1011) that is mounted so that the radar sensor is tilted at a predetermined angle and faces the floor surface, The above specified angle is, An air conditioner, wherein the indoor unit body is located at an angle of between 50 and 70 degrees when located on one side of the ceiling.

2. In the first paragraph, the predetermined angle is Air conditioner, 60 to 65 degrees.

3. In paragraph 1, the air conditioner, Memory (1022) for storing one or more instructions; and further comprising at least one processor (1021), The at least one processor (1021) executes the one or more instructions, Using the radar sensor (1001), information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner (1000) is obtained, Using information about the location of at least one occupant, identify the activity level of at least one occupant, Based on the activity level of at least one occupant, the air volume of the air conditioner (1000) is determined, An air conditioner that controls the blower (1003) so that wind is discharged at the determined wind speed.

4. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that determines the air volume of the air conditioner based on the number of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner.

5. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, When the absence of at least one occupant is detected through the radar sensor for a first predetermined period of time, the operation mode of the air conditioner is changed from a normal mode in which the air conditioner operates at a specific wind speed to a windless mode in which the blades are closed. If the absence of at least one occupant is continuously detected through the radar sensor for a second predetermined period of time after changing to the windless mode, the windless mode is changed to a soft-off mode in which the cooling operation is stopped. An air conditioner that turns off the power of the air conditioner when the absence of at least one occupant is continuously detected through the radar sensor for a third predetermined period of time after changing to the soft off mode.

6. In the fifth paragraph, the at least one processor, Inferring the absence pattern of at least one occupant using an AI model, According to the absence pattern of at least one occupant, the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, or the third predetermined time is adjusted, An air conditioner in which, in the soft-off mode, the radar sensor and the at least one processor are activated, and the heat exchanger, the blower, and the blades are deactivated.

7. In the fifth paragraph, the at least one processor, If at least one occupant is detected through the radar sensor within the second predetermined time after changing to the windless mode, the windless mode is changed to a normal mode that operates at the specific wind speed, An air conditioner that changes the soft off mode to a normal mode that operates at the specific wind speed when at least one occupant is detected through the radar sensor within the third predetermined time after changing to the soft off mode.

8. In paragraph 5, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that controls the blower to perform a drying operation for the heat exchanger when changing the above windless mode to the above soft off mode.

9. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that, when the absence of at least one occupant is detected through the radar sensor, transmits information related to the absence of at least one occupant to a server (2000).

10. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, Set the away security mode based on the input of at least one occupant, An air conditioner that, when detecting movement through the radar sensor while operating in the above-mentioned away security mode, outputs a notification that the movement has been detected through a user terminal (4000) connected to the server.

11. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that, when receiving an input for setting a direct wind mode, adjusts the angle of the blade so that the wind is directed directly toward the at least one occupant based on the position of the at least one occupant detected by the radar sensor.

12. In the 11th paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that detects multiple occupants through the radar sensor and adjusts the angle of the blade so that the wind is directed to the multiple occupants alternately.

13. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that, when receiving an input for setting an indirect wind mode, adjusts the angle of the blade so that the wind is directed outward by a predetermined radius from the at least one occupant based on the position of the at least one occupant detected by the radar sensor.

14. In the third paragraph, the at least one processor, An air conditioner that outputs a notification to increase the activity level through a speaker of the air conditioner, a display of the air conditioner, or a user terminal connected through a server when the activity level of at least one occupant is below a threshold activity level for a predetermined period of time.

15. In a method for controlling the operation of an air conditioner including an indoor unit body, A step (S910) of obtaining information on the location of at least one occupant detected within a predetermined range from the air conditioner by using a radar sensor provided facing the floor surface inside the indoor unit body; A step (S920) of identifying the activity level of at least one occupant using information about the location of at least one occupant; A step (S930) of determining the air volume of the air conditioner based on the activity level of at least one occupant; and A method comprising a step (S940) of controlling a blower of the air conditioner so that wind is discharged at the determined wind volume.

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