Air conditioner

Abstract

This air conditioner comprises: a housing comprising an inlet portion, a discharge portion, and a discharge port; a blower which circulates air to the inside or outside of the housing; and a discharge device which guides, toward the discharge port, part of the air blown to the discharge portion by the blower. The discharge device comprises: a base fixed to the housing, for attachment of a movement driving source and a rotary driving source thereto; a discharge cover for opening / closing the discharge port, the discharge cover being movable and rotatable relative to the base; a movement transmission device which receives power from the movement driving source so as to move the discharge cover; and a rotational transmission device which receives power from the rotary driving source so as to rotate the discharge cover.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The present invention relates to an air conditioner, for example, to an air conditioner including an exhaust device.

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

[0003] Air conditioners may include air purifiers to remove airborne contaminants. Air purifiers can remove bacteria, viruses, mold, fine dust, and odor-causing chemicals from the incoming air.

[0004] An air purifier may include a purification device to purify polluted indoor air. Air drawn into the air purifier passes through the purification device, where contaminants are removed and purified air is released outside the air purifier. For example, the purification device may include a filter and / or a dust collector.

[0005] Air purifiers can be used in a variety of spaces. Air purifiers may include an exhaust device for controlling at least one of the direction, speed, and volume of exhaust of purified air.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner capable of discharging purified air in various ways.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an air conditioner with improved operational stability.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] According to one embodiment, an air conditioner includes a housing including an inlet portion, a discharge portion, and a discharge port, a blower for circulating air into and / or out of the housing, and a discharge device for guiding a portion of air blown by the blower to the discharge portion to the discharge port. The discharge device is fixed to the housing and includes a base for mounting a movable driving source and a rotational driving source, a discharge cover for opening and closing the discharge port, the discharge cover being movable and rotatable with respect to the base, a movement transmitter for receiving power from the movable driving source to move the discharge cover, and a rotation transmitter for receiving power from the rotational driving source to rotate the discharge cover.

[0010] According to one embodiment, an air conditioner includes a housing including an inlet portion, a discharge portion, and a discharge port, a blower for circulating air into and / or out of the housing, and a discharge device for guiding a portion of air blown by the blower to the discharge portion to the discharge port. The discharge device is fixed to the housing and includes a base for mounting a movable driving source and a rotational driving source, and a discharge cover for opening and closing the discharge port, the discharge cover being movable and rotatable with respect to the base. The discharge device is configured such that during movement of the discharge cover, the rotational driving source is fixed to the base, and during rotation of the discharge cover, the movable driving source is fixed to the base.

[0011] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of a blower panel of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing an exhaust device of an air conditioner according to various embodiments disassembled from a housing;

[0016] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exhaust device according to various embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exhaust device according to various embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a discharge device according to various embodiments with the discharge port closed;

[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to movement of a discharge cover when the discharge device according to various embodiments has the discharge port closed;

[0020] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the components related to movement of the discharge cover with the discharge port closed in a discharge device according to various embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a discharge device according to various embodiments with the discharge port open;

[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to movement of a discharge cover, with the discharge device according to various embodiments having an open discharge port;

[0023] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the components related to movement of the discharge cover with the discharge port open in the discharge device according to various embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to the rotation of the discharge cover when the discharge device according to various embodiments has the discharge port open.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a discharge cover of a discharge device according to various embodiments in a rotated state;

[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a coupling relationship between components related to the rotation of a discharge cover of a discharge device according to various embodiments, when the discharge cover is rotated.

[0027] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0028] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0029] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0031] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0032] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0033] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0034] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0035] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0036] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0037] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0038] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0039] 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. The air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0059] 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, 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 by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0060] 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.

[0061] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0067] 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.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0069] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0070] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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 components of the indoor unit.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0079] 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 switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0085] 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.

[0086] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0087] 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.

[0088] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, an air purifier will be described as an example of an air conditioner. However, the present disclosure is not limited to air purifiers and can be applied to various home appliances, including indoor units of air conditioners that include heat exchangers.

[0089] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an air conditioner according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of a blower panel of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 (which may be referred to as FIGS. 1 to 3), the air conditioner (1) may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may form the exterior of the air conditioner (1).

[0091] The housing (10) may include a frame body (11) and a blower panel (12) provided on the outside of the frame body (11). The frame body (11) may support various components of the air conditioner (1). The frame body (11) may be provided to accommodate various components of the air conditioner (1). The frame body (11) may be provided so that at least a portion thereof is covered by the blower panel (12).

[0092] The blower panel (12) may be detachably mounted on the frame body (11). For example, the blower panel (12) may include a first blower panel forming the front of the air conditioner (1), a second blower panel forming the rear of the air conditioner (1), a third blower panel forming the right side of the air conditioner, and a fourth blower panel forming the left side of the air conditioner (1). The first blower panel may be referred to as a front panel. The second blower panel may be referred to as a rear panel. The third blower panel may be referred to as a right side panel. The fourth blower panel may be referred to as a left side panel.

[0093] The first blower panel, the second blower panel, the third blower panel, and the fourth blower panel may be provided as separate configurations. However, at least some of the blower panels among the first blower panel, the second blower panel, the third blower panel, and the fourth blower panel may be formed integrally. At least some of the blower panels among the first blower panel, the second blower panel, the third blower panel, and the fourth blower panel may be detachable from the frame body (11).

[0094] The ventilation panel (12) may include a panel portion (12a). The panel portion (12a) may include a plurality of ribs. The plurality of ribs may extend in one direction. For example, the plurality of ribs may extend in an up-down direction. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0095] The panel portion (12a) can be formed over the entire area of ​​the ventilation panel (12). For example, the panel portion (12a) can be provided in a uniform pattern over the entire area of ​​the ventilation panel (12). This increases the degree of freedom in the design of the ventilation panel (12), thereby improving aesthetics.

[0096] The housing (10) may include a vent (13). For example, the vent (13) may be formed in the ventilation panel (12). The vent (13) may extend in the vertical direction. The vent (13) may be formed in plurality. For example, the plurality of vents (13) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the plurality of vents (13) may be arranged in the left-right direction (Y direction) or in the front-back direction (X direction).

[0097] The air vent (13) may be formed corresponding to the panel portion (12a). For example, the air vent (13) may be an opening formed between a plurality of ribs of the panel portion (12a). Air outside the housing (10) may be introduced into the housing (10) through the air vent (13) or discharged from the housing (10). The air vent (13) may include a plurality of openings.

[0098] The housing (10) may include an inlet (13a) and an outlet (13b). The inlet (13a) may be provided so that air from the outside of the housing (10) may be introduced into the inside of the housing (10). The outlet (13b) may be provided so that air from the inside of the housing (10) may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10). The inlet (13a) and the outlet (13b) may be formed in the ventilation panel (12). The air vent (13) may include an inlet (13a) and an outlet (13b). The inlet (13a) may be provided as a part of the air vent (13), and the outlet (13b) may be provided as another part of the air vent (13). One part of the air vent (13) may be the inlet (13a), and another part of the air vent (13) may be the outlet (13b).

[0099] The housing (10) may include an inlet opening (14) and an outlet opening (15). The inlet opening (14) and the outlet opening (15) may be formed in the frame body (11). The inlet opening (14) may be provided to correspond to the inlet portion (13a) of the air vent (13). The outlet opening (15) may be provided to correspond to the outlet portion (13b) of the air vent (13).

[0100] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that air is introduced into the interior of a housing (10) through an inlet (13a) and an inlet opening (14), and purified air is discharged to the exterior of the housing (10) through an outlet opening (15) and an outlet (13b).

[0101] For example, the inlet (13a) may include a first inlet and a second inlet spaced apart from the first inlet, and the inlet opening (14) may include a first inlet opening corresponding to the first inlet and a second inlet opening corresponding to the second inlet. The first inlet and the second inlet may be arranged in a vertical direction, and correspondingly, the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening may be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0102] For example, the discharge portion (13b) may include a first discharge portion and a second discharge portion spaced apart from the first discharge portion, and the discharge opening (15) may include a first discharge opening corresponding to the first discharge portion and a second discharge opening corresponding to the second discharge portion. The first discharge portion and the second discharge portion may be arranged in a vertical direction, and correspondingly, the first discharge opening and the second discharge opening may be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0103] The inlet (13a) and the outlet (13b) may be formed in the first blower panel, the second blower panel, the third blower panel, and the fourth blower panel, respectively. The first inlet opening (14) and the second outlet opening (15) may be formed in the front, rear, right side, and left side of the frame body (11), respectively.

[0104] For example, air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14). For example, air outside the housing (10) can flow into the housing (10) from all directions through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14).

[0105] Additionally, for example, air inside the housing (10) can flow from the housing (10) in all directions toward the outside of the housing (10) through the exhaust port (13b) and the exhaust opening (15). For example, air inside the housing (10) can flow in all directions toward the outside of the housing (10) through the exhaust port (13b) and the exhaust opening (15).

[0106] Since air is introduced and / or discharged from all directions, smooth air circulation inside the housing (10) can be achieved. The air conditioner (1) can achieve high dust collection efficiency.

[0107] The housing (10) may include an upper frame (16). The upper frame (16) may be provided at the upper end of the housing (10). The upper frame (16) may be arranged on the upper side of the frame body (11).

[0108] The upper frame (16) may be provided with a user interface. For example, the user interface may include an operating unit. The user interface may receive user input or output operating information of the air conditioner (1) to the user.

[0109] The housing (10) may include a support (19). The support (19) may be arranged at the lower end of the housing (10) to support elements constituting the housing (10) and the air conditioner (1).

[0110] The air conditioner (1) may include a blower (30). The blower (30) may generate blowing force. The blower (30) may move air. The blower (30) may force air to flow. The blower (30) may rotate to create an air flow that flows inside the housing (10). The blower (30) may cause air to flow in through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) and to be discharged through the outlet (13b) and the outlet opening (15). For example, the blower (30) may move air upward. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and when the inlet (13a) is provided above the outlet (13b), the blower (30) may move air downward.

[0111] The blower (30) may be placed inside the housing (10). The blower (30) may be located downstream of the inlet (13a). The blower (30) may be located upstream of the outlet (13b). The blower (30) may be placed between the inlet (13a) and the outlet (13b).

[0112] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of blowers (30). The plurality of blowers (30) may be arranged along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of blowers (30) may be spaced apart from each other along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the air conditioner (1) may include a first blower and a second blower. However, there is no limitation on the number of blowers (30).

[0113] A flow path (20) may be formed within the housing (10). The flow path (20) may extend from the inlet (13a) to the outlet (13b). Air blown by the blower (30) may flow into the flow path (20).

[0114] Air can pass through the housing (10) along an air flow direction. The air flow direction can be a direction from upstream to downstream of a flow path (20) formed inside the housing (10). For example, the air flow direction within the housing (10) can include a vertical direction (Z direction). The air flow direction can be a direction in which air introduced into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) flows toward the outlet opening (15) and the outlet (13b). For example, the air flow direction can be a direction in which air introduced into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) passes through the dust collector (50), the deodorizing device (40), and the blower (30). For example, air drawn into the front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing (10) by the blower (30) may flow upward and then be discharged again into the front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing (10). However, the direction of air flow is not limited to the above-described example.

[0115] The air conditioner (1) may include an air guide (17). Air flowing into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) may be guided toward the blower (30) through the air guide (17). The air guide (17) may form a part of a flow path (20) therein. The air guide (17) may guide air inside the housing (10) and / or in the flow path (20) to the blower (30). Air passing through the interior of the air guide (17) may flow into the interior of the blower case (18) and to the blower (30).

[0116] An air conditioner (1) may include a blower case (18). A blower (30) may be disposed within the blower case (18). The blower case (18) may form a portion of a flow path (20) therein. The blower case (18) may guide the flow of air flowing within the housing (10). The blower case (18) may be in communication with an air guide (17).

[0117] The air conditioner (1) may include a dust collector (50). The dust collector (50) may be configured to filter air. The dust collector (50) may capture aerosols in the air. For example, the dust collector (50) may include a first assembly (51) configured to charge aerosols in the air, and a second assembly (52) configured to collect aerosols charged by the first assembly (51).

[0118] A dust collector (50) may be placed inside the housing (10). The dust collector (50) may be positioned so that air introduced through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) may pass therethrough. The dust collector (50) may be positioned so that air may pass therethrough before being discharged through the discharge opening (15) and the discharge opening (13b). The dust collector (50) may be placed between the inlet (13a) and the discharge opening (13b). The dust collector (50) may be placed between the inlet opening (14) and the discharge opening (15). The dust collector (50) may filter air introduced into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a) by the blower (30). The filtered air may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the discharge opening (13b).

[0119] For example, the dust collector (50) may be positioned below the blower (30). For example, the blower (30) may be positioned above the dust collector (50). For example, the dust collector (50) and the blower (30) may be positioned so that the deodorizing device (40) is interposed therebetween. However, the positions of the deodorizing device (40), the dust collector (50), and the blower (30) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0120] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of dust collectors (50). The plurality of dust collectors (50) may be arranged along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of dust collectors (50) may be spaced apart from each other along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the air conditioner (1) may include a first dust collector and a second dust collector. However, there is no limitation on the number of dust collectors (50).

[0121] The air conditioner (1) may include a deodorizing device (40). The deodorizing device (40) may be configured to deodorize air. The deodorizing device (40) may be configured to remove odorous substances in the air. The deodorizing device (40) may be configured to sterilize air. For example, the deodorizing device (40) may sterilize air by decomposing organic substances in the air. Air flowing inside the housing (10) may have its odor removed as it passes through the deodorizing device (40).

[0122] The deodorizing device (40) may include a light source device (41) and a photocatalytic filter (42). The photocatalytic filter (42) reacts with light irradiated from the light source of the light source device (41) to generate a reactant, and the reactant can decompose odorous substances to deodorize the air.

[0123] A deodorizing device (40) may be placed inside the housing (10). The deodorizing device (40) may be positioned so that air introduced through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) may pass therethrough. The deodorizing device (40) may be positioned so that air may pass therethrough before being discharged through the discharge opening (15) and the discharge opening (13b). The deodorizing device (40) may be placed between the inlet (13a) and the discharge opening (13b). The deodorizing device (40) may be placed between the inlet opening (14) and the discharge opening (15).

[0124] The deodorizing device (40) may be provided to deodorize air that has passed through the dust collecting device (50). The deodorizing device (40) may be positioned downstream of the dust collecting device (50) in the air flow direction. The deodorizing device (40) may be arranged between the dust collecting device (50) and the discharge portion (13b). The deodorizing device (40) may be arranged between the dust collecting device (50) and the discharge opening (15). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the deodorizing device (40) may also be positioned upstream of the dust collecting device (50) in the air flow direction. In this case, the dust collecting device (50) may be provided to capture aerosols in the air that has passed through the deodorizing device (40).

[0125] For example, the deodorizing device (40) may be positioned above the dust collecting device (50). For example, the dust collecting device (50) may be positioned below the deodorizing device (40). For example, the deodorizing device (40) may be positioned between the dust collecting device (50) and the blower (30). However, the positions of the deodorizing device (40), the dust collecting device (50), and the blower (30) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0126] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of deodorizing devices (40). The plurality of deodorizing devices (40) may be arranged along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of deodorizing devices (40) may be spaced apart from each other along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the air conditioner (1) may include a first deodorizing device and a second deodorizing device. However, there is no limitation on the number of deodorizing devices (40).

[0127] For example, a first deodorizing device may be provided above a first dust collector. For example, a second deodorizing device may be provided above a second dust collector. For example, a first blower may be provided between the first dust collector and the second dust collector. For example, the second dust collector may be spaced upward from the first dust collector with the first blower therebetween. For example, the first blower may be provided between the first deodorizing device and the second dust collector. For example, the second blower may be provided above the second dust collector. For example, the second blower may be disposed above the second dust collector and move air that has passed through the second dust collector toward the exhaust port (13b). For example, the second blower may be disposed above the second deodorizing device. For example, the second blower may be disposed above the second deodorizing device and move air that has passed through the second deodorizing device toward the exhaust port (13b). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and the positions of the dust collector (50), deodorizing device (40), and blower (30) are not limited to the above-described examples.

[0128] For example, the air conditioner (1) may omit the blower (30), deodorizing device (40), and dust collecting device (50) arranged below, and the components related thereto.

[0129] A dust collector (50) may be positioned on the flow path (20). A deodorizing device (40) may be positioned on the flow path (20). A blower (30) may be positioned on the flow path (20). For example, air introduced into the flow path (20) through the inlet (13a) may flow to the discharge portion (13b) after passing through the dust collector (50), the deodorizing device (40), and the blower fan (30). The air that has flowed to the discharge portion (13b) may exit from the flow path (20).

[0130] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an exhaust device of an air conditioner according to various embodiments, disassembled from a housing. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exhaust device according to various embodiments. Fig. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a cross-section of an exhaust device according to various embodiments.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 (which may be referred to as FIGS. 4 to 6), an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an exhaust device (100). The exhaust device (100) may be mounted on a housing (10). The exhaust device (100) may be mounted on a frame body (11) of the housing (10). The exhaust device (100) may be mounted on an upper part (11a) of the frame body (11). The exhaust device (100) may be located between the upper part (11a) of the frame body (11) and an upper frame (16).

[0132] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a discharge port (16a) formed in an upper frame (16). The discharge port (16a) may be provided to face a different direction from the direction in which the discharge portion (13b) faces. For example, the discharge port (16a) may be provided to face upward. The discharge port (16a) may be provided at an end of a flow path branching off from a flow path formed between a blower (30) and the discharge portion (13b). Air blown from the blower (30) may be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the discharge portion (13b) or the discharge port (16a).

[0133] The exhaust device (100) may be provided to open and close the exhaust port (16a). The exhaust device (100) may be provided to guide a portion of the air blown to the exhaust section (13b) by the blower (30) to the exhaust port (16a).

[0134] The discharge device (100) may include a base (101). The base (101) may be fixed to the housing (10). The base (101) may be mounted and fixed to the frame body (11). The base (101) may support various configurations of the discharge device (100). For example, the base (101) may include a drive unit case (104) for mounting a moving drive unit (102) and a rotating drive unit (103).

[0135] The discharge device (100) may include a moving drive source (102) mounted on the base (101). The moving drive source (102) may be provided to provide power for moving the discharge cover (110). For example, the moving drive source (102) may be positioned at the right rear corner portion of the base (101). The moving drive source (102) may include a motor.

[0136] For example, the discharge device (100) may include a moving gear (102a) for transmitting power of a moving drive source (102) to a rotating member (120). The moving drive source (102) may include a moving gear (102a). The moving drive source (102) may be connected to the rotating member (120) through the moving gear (102a). For example, the moving gear (102a) may include a plurality of gears.

[0137] The discharge device (100) may include a rotational drive source (103) mounted on the base (101). The rotational drive source (103) may be provided to provide power for rotating the discharge cover (110). For example, the rotational drive source (103) may be positioned at a left rear corner portion of the base (101). The rotational drive source (103) may include a motor.

[0138] For example, the discharge device (100) may include a rotary gear (103a) for transmitting the power of the rotary drive source (103) to the rotary transmission part (140). The rotary drive source (103) may include the rotary gear (103a). The rotary drive source (103) may be connected to the rotary transmission part (140) through the rotary gear (103a). For example, the rotary gear (103a) may include a plurality of gears.

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the exhaust device (100) may be configured such that the rotational driving source (103) is fixed to the base (101) while the exhaust cover (110) moves. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the exhaust device (100) may be configured such that the movable driving source (102) is fixed to the base (101) while the exhaust cover (110) rotates. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the exhaust device (100) of the air conditioner (1) is configured such that both the movable driving source (102) and the rotational driving source (103) are fixed to the base (101), so that the movable driving source (102) and the rotational driving source (103) do not move while the exhaust cover (110) moves or rotates, and thus the stability of operation may be improved. In addition, the exhaust device (100) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured such that both the movable drive source (102) and the rotational drive source (103) are fixed to the base (101), so that the movable drive source (102) and the rotational drive source (103) do not move while the exhaust cover (110) moves or rotates, thereby preventing / suppressing the occurrence of defects due to the wires connected to the movable drive source (102) and / or the rotational drive source (103) moving and becoming tangled or broken. The exhaust device (100) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured such that both the movable drive source (102) and the rotational drive source (103) are fixed to the base (101), so that the movable drive source (102) and the rotational drive source (103) do not move while the exhaust cover (110) moves or rotates, thereby preventing and / or reducing a decrease in the safety factor due to the weight of the drive sources (102, 103).

[0140] The discharge device (100) may include a discharge cover (110). The discharge cover (110) may be provided to open and close the discharge port (16a). The discharge cover (110) may be provided to be movable and rotatable with respect to the base (101). For example, the discharge cover (110) may have a cylindrical shape with an open bottom.

[0141] The discharge cover (110) may include a cover opening (117) formed on a portion of the outer surface of the discharge cover (110). The cover opening (117) may be located inside the housing (10) when the discharge cover (110) closes the discharge port (16a). At least a portion of the cover opening (117) may be located outside the housing (10) when the discharge cover (110) opens the discharge port (16a). For example, the cover opening (117) may be provided so that air discharged in a substantially vertical direction from the housing (10) through the discharge port (16a) is directed in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0142] The discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the switching member (130). The discharge cover (110) can be rotatably coupled to the switching member (130). The discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the switching member (130) so as to be able to move up and down together with the switching member (130). The discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the switching member (130) so as to be able to rotate with respect to the switching member (130) and move up and down together with the switching member (130).

[0143] For example, the discharge cover (110) may include a rotation support member (111) provided along the periphery of the discharge cover (110). The rotation support member (111) may be coupled with a rotation coupling member (131) of a switching member (130). For example, the rotation support member (111) of the discharge cover (110) may have a groove shape, and the rotation coupling member (131) of the switching member (130) may have a shape that protrudes inward from the inner circumferential surface of the switching member (130).

[0144] The discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the rotation transmission part (140) so as to be rotatable together with the rotation transmission part (140). The discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the rotation transmission part (140) so as to be movable with respect to the rotation transmission part (140). For example, the discharge cover (110) can be coupled to the rotation transmission part (140) so as to be limited in rotation with respect to the rotation transmission part (140), but capable of moving up and down with respect to the rotation transmission part (140).

[0145] For example, the discharge cover (110) may include a cover coupling portion (115, see, for example, FIG. 9) that is movably coupled to a part coupling portion (145) of a rotational transmission part (140). The part coupling portion (145) of the rotational transmission part (140) may extend along the movement direction of the discharge cover (110). For example, the cover coupling portion (115) may have a shape that protrudes inwardly from the inner circumferential surface of the discharge cover (110), and the part coupling portion (145) may have a groove shape into which the cover coupling portion (115) can be slidably inserted. The discharge cover (110) may be configured such that rotation with respect to the rotational transmission part (140) is limited as the part coupling portion (145) and the cover coupling portion (115) are coupled.

[0146] In an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the discharge cover (110) opens the discharge port (16a), a portion of the air blown by the blower (30) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the discharge portion (13b), and another portion of the air blown by the blower (30) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (10) through the discharge port (16a).

[0147] The discharge device (100) may include a moving transmission part (120, 130, 106) for receiving power from a moving driving source (102) and moving the discharge cover (110). For example, the moving transmission part (120, 130, 106) may include a rotating member (120), a switching member (130), and a moving support member (106).

[0148] The discharge device (100) may include a rotating member (120). The rotating member (120) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the base (101). The rotating member (120) may be rotatably received in the base (101). The rotating member (120) may be rotatably mounted on the base (101). The rotating member (120) may be connected to a moving drive source (102). The rotating member (120) may be connected to a moving gear (102a) of the moving drive source (102).

[0149] The rotating member (120) may include a moving gear connection portion (121) for connection with the moving drive source (102). The moving gear connection portion (121) may be provided at least at a portion along the outer circumferential surface of the rotating member (120). The moving gear connection portion (121) may have a gear shape. For example, as the moving gear (102a) of the moving drive source (102) and the moving gear connection portion (121) of the rotating member (120) are connected, the rotating member (120) may receive a rotational force from the moving drive source (102) and rotate.

[0150] The rotating member (120) may include a moving guide (123) for guiding the movement of the switching member (130). The moving guide (123) may extend in the moving direction of the discharge cover (110). For example, the moving guide (123) may extend in the vertical direction. The moving guide (123) may be provided to be coupled with the moving coupling portion (133) of the switching member (130). For example, the moving coupling portion (133) of the switching member (130) may have a protruding shape, and the moving guide (123) may have a slit shape into which the moving coupling portion (133) is slidably inserted. For example, the number of moving guides (123) may be provided singly or in plurality so as to correspond to the number of moving coupling portions (133).

[0151] The discharge device (100) may include a switching member (130). The switching member (130) may be coupled to the rotating member (120) so as to be rotatable together with the rotating member (120). The switching member (130) may be coupled to the rotating member (120) so as to be movable with respect to the rotating member (120). For example, the switching member (130) may have a ring shape.

[0152] For example, the switching member (130) may include a movable coupling portion (133) that is movably coupled to a movable guide (123) of the rotating member (120). For example, the movable coupling portion (133) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the switching member (130), and the movable guide (123) may have a slit shape into which the movable coupling portion (133) is slidably inserted. For example, the number of movable coupling portions (133) may be provided singly or in plurality so as to correspond to the number of movable guides (123). As the movable coupling portion (133) moves up and down along the movable guide (123), the switching member (130) may move up and down with respect to the rotating member (120).

[0153] The switching member (130) may include a rotational coupling member (131) that is rotatably coupled to the rotational support member (111) of the discharge cover (110). The switching member (130) may be configured so that movement of the discharge cover (110) is limited as the rotational support member (111) and the rotational coupling member (131) are coupled. For example, the rotational coupling member (131) may have a shape that protrudes inward from the inner circumferential surface of the switching member (130), and the rotational support member (111) of the discharge cover (110) may have a groove shape formed on the outer circumferential surface of the discharge cover (110).

[0154] The switching member (130) can be coupled to the discharge cover (110) so as to be movable together with the discharge cover (110). The switching member (130) can be coupled to the discharge cover (110) so as to be rotatable with respect to the discharge cover (110).

[0155] The discharge device (100) may include a movable support member (106). The movable support member (106) may guide the movement of the switching member (130) while the rotating member (120) rotates. The movable support member (106) may guide the movement of the switching member (130) in the up and down direction. For example, the movable support member (106) may be formed integrally with the base (101).

[0156] The movable support member (106) may have an inclined shape to move the movable coupling member (133) of the switching member (130) in the up-and-down direction while the switching member (130) rotates. The movable support member (106) may extend along the outer circumference of the switching member (130). For example, the movable support member (106) may be provided so that upwardly sloping portions and downwardly sloping portions are repeated along the outer circumference of the switching member (130). The movable support member (106) may support the movable coupling member (133) of the switching member (130). The movable coupling member (133) of the switching member (130) may slide along the movable support member (106).

[0157] The discharge device (100) may include a movable cover (150) for forming a movable rail (107, see, for example, FIG. 8) for a movable coupling portion (133) of a switching member (130) together with a movable support portion (106). The movable cover (150) may be mounted on a base (101). The movable cover (150) may be supported by at least a portion of the movable support portion (106) of the base (101). The movable cover (150) may include a cover slope (151) corresponding to an inclined portion of the movable support portion (106). The movable coupling portion (133) of the switching member (130) may move along a movable rail (107) formed by the movable support portion (106) and the movable cover (150). For example, the movable rail (107) may be formed in three or more portions along the perimeter of the switching member (130).

[0158] The discharge device (100) may include a rotation transmission part (140). The rotation transmission part (140) may be provided to receive power from a rotation driving source (103) to rotate the discharge cover (110).

[0159] The rotation transmission part (140) may include a rotation gear connection part (141) for connection with the rotation driving source (103). The rotation gear connection part (141) may be provided at least at a portion along the outer circumference of the rotation transmission part (140). The rotation gear connection part (141) may have a gear shape. For example, as the rotation gear (103a) of the rotation driving source (103) and the rotation gear connection part (141) of the rotation transmission part (140) are connected, the rotation transmission part (140) may receive rotational force from the rotation driving source (103) and rotate.

[0160] The rotation transmission part (140) may include a part coupling part (145) extending along the moving direction of the discharge cover (110). The part coupling part (145) of the rotation transmission part (140) may be coupled with the cover coupling part (115) of the discharge cover (110). For example, the part coupling part (145) may extend along the moving direction of the discharge cover (110). For example, the part coupling part (145) may have a groove shape, and the cover coupling part (115) of the discharge cover (110) may have a protruding shape that is slidably inserted into the part coupling part (145).

[0161] According to this configuration, the discharge device (100) can be configured so that the rotation transmission part (140) rotates as the rotation driving source (103) operates, and the discharge cover (110) rotates without moving as the rotation transmission part (140) rotates. As the part coupling part (145) and the cover coupling part (115) are coupled, the discharge cover (110) can be provided so that its rotation is restricted with respect to the rotation transmission part (140), but its movement is possible with respect to the rotation transmission part (140).

[0162] The exhaust device (100) may include a fan device (160). The fan device (160) may include an exhaust fan (161) operable to exhaust a portion of air blown by the blower (30) through the exhaust port (16a) while the exhaust cover (110) opens the exhaust port (16a). The fan device (160) may include a fan case (162) in which the exhaust fan (161) is mounted. For example, while the fan device (160) is operating, the air conditioner (1) may exhaust a greater amount of air through the exhaust port (16a) than the amount of air exhausted through the exhaust portion (13b) among the air blown by the blower (30). For example, while the fan device (160) is operating, the air conditioner (1) may exhaust air exhausted from the exhaust port (16a) further away from the air conditioner (1). For example, while the fan device (160) is operating, the air conditioner (1) can discharge the air discharged from the discharge port (16a) more quickly.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 6, in the exhaust device (100) of the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a discharge cover (110) and a switching member (130) may be arranged on the outside of a rotation transmission part (140) centered on the rotation axis of the exhaust fan (161), a movable support member (106) and a movable cover (150) may be arranged on the outside of the discharge cover (110) and the switching member (130), and a rotation member (120) may be arranged on the outside of the movable support member (106) and the movable cover (150).

[0164] Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an exhaust device according to various embodiments has its exhaust port closed. Fig. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a coupling relationship between components related to movement of a discharge cover when an exhaust device according to various embodiments has its exhaust port closed. Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a lower portion of components related to movement of a discharge cover when an exhaust device according to various embodiments has its exhaust port closed.

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 (which may be referred to as FIGS. 7 to 9), a state in which an exhaust device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has its exhaust port (16a) closed is described.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, when the discharge device (100) closes the discharge port (16a), the movable coupling part (133) of the switching member (130) may be located below the movable guide (123) of the rotating member (120). The movable coupling part (133) of the switching member (130) may be located below the movable support part (106). The cover coupling part (115) of the discharge cover (110) may be located below the part coupling part (145) of the rotation transmission part (140).

[0167] Fig. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an exhaust device according to various embodiments with its exhaust port open. Fig. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a coupling relationship between components related to movement of a discharge cover in an exhaust device according to various embodiments with its exhaust port open. Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a lower portion of components related to movement of a discharge cover in an exhaust device according to various embodiments with its exhaust port open.

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 (which may be referred to as FIGS. 10 to 12), a state in which an exhaust device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has an exhaust port (16a) open is described.

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, when the discharge device (100) opens the discharge port (16a), the movable coupling part (133) of the switching member (130) may be located above the movable guide (123) of the rotating member (120). The movable coupling part (133) of the switching member (130) may be located above the movable support part (106). The cover coupling part (115) of the discharge cover (110) may be located above the part coupling part (145) of the rotating transmission part (140).

[0170] For example, the discharge device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that the rotating member (120) rotates as the moving driving source (102) operates, the switching member (130) rotates and moves upward as the rotating member (120) rotates, and the discharge cover (110) moves upward without rotation as the switching member (130) rotates and moves upward to open the discharge port (16a).

[0171] As the rotating member (120) rotates, the movable coupling part (133) inserted into the moving guide (123) of the rotating member (120) moves in the direction of rotating the switching member (130). While the movable coupling part (133) moves in the direction of rotating the switching member (130), the movable coupling part (133) moves on the moving support part (106), and since the movable support part (106) has an upwardly inclined shape, the movable coupling part (133) moves upward. As the movable coupling part (133) moves upward, the discharge cover (110) that is coupled to move up and down together with the switching member (130) moves upward. While the discharge cover (110) moves upward, the discharge cover (110) moves upward without rotation due to the engagement of the part coupling portion (145) of the rotation transmission part (140) and the cover coupling portion (115) of the discharge cover (110).

[0172] In order to operate the discharge device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure to close the discharge port (16a) from the open state, the above-described process can be performed in reverse. For example, when the moving drive source (102) generates a rotational force in the opposite direction to that in which the discharge cover (110) is raised, the rotating member (120) rotates, and as the rotating member (120) rotates, the switching member (130) rotates and moves downward, and as the switching member (130) rotates and moves downward, the discharge cover (110) can be configured to move downward without rotation and close the discharge port (16a).

[0173] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to the rotation of the discharge cover in a state where the discharge port of the discharge device is open according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to the rotation of the discharge cover in a state where the discharge cover of the discharge device is rotated according to various embodiments. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between components related to the rotation of the discharge cover in a state where the discharge cover of the discharge device is rotated according to various embodiments.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 13, 14 and 15, the operation of rotating the discharge cover (110) of the discharge device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0175] The discharge cover (110) of the discharge device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be rotated from the state shown in FIGS. 10 and 13 to the state shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0176] For example, as the rotation drive source (103) operates, the rotation transmission part (140) rotates, and as the rotation transmission part (140) rotates, the discharge cover (110) rotates without movement by the engagement of the part coupling part (145) and the cover coupling part (115). Since the switching member (130) is provided to be rotatable with respect to the discharge cover (110), even if the discharge cover (110) rotates, the switching member (130) may not rotate.

[0177] In order to rotate the discharge cover (110) of the discharge device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the state illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 to the state illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 13, the above-described process can be performed in reverse. Specifically, the rotational driving source (103) can generate a rotational force in a direction opposite to the above-described direction, and accordingly, the rotational transmission part (140) and the discharge cover (110) can rotate in the opposite directions.

[0178] According to this configuration, the air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can guide a portion of the air blown toward the discharge portion (13b) to the discharge port (16a) and discharge it in various ways.

[0179] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment comprises a housing (10) including an inlet (13a), a discharge (13b), and a discharge port (16a), a blower (30) for circulating air into or out of the housing, and a discharge device (100) for guiding a portion of air blown to the discharge port by the blower to the discharge port. The discharge device is fixed to the housing and comprises a base (101) for mounting a movable driving source (102) and a rotational driving source (103), a discharge cover (110) for opening and closing the discharge port, the discharge cover being movable and rotatable with respect to the base, a movement transmitter (120, 130, 106) for receiving power from the movable driving source to move the discharge cover, and a rotation transmitter (140) for receiving power from the rotational driving source to rotate the discharge cover.

[0180] The above-described moving transmission part may include a gear connected to the moving driving source and a rotating member (120) rotatable with respect to the base, a switching member (130) including a ring coupled to the rotating member so as to be rotatable together with the rotating member but movable with respect to the rotating member, and a moving support (106) for guiding the movement of the switching member while the rotating member rotates.

[0181] The above switching member can be coupled to the discharge cover so as to be movable together with the discharge cover but rotatable with respect to the discharge cover.

[0182] The above discharge cover may include a rotational support member (111) provided along the periphery of the discharge cover. The switching member may include a rotational coupling member (131) rotatably coupled to the rotational support member. The switching member may be configured to limit movement of the discharge cover as the rotational support member and the rotational coupling member are coupled.

[0183] The above discharge device may be configured such that as the moving driving source operates, the rotating member rotates, the switching member rotates and moves as the rotating member rotates, and as the switching member rotates and moves, the discharge cover moves without rotation to open and close the discharge port.

[0184] The above-mentioned rotating member may include a movement guide (123) for guiding the movement of the above-mentioned switching member. The above-mentioned switching member may include a movement coupling part (133) movably coupled to the movement guide.

[0185] The above discharge device may include a moving cover (150) including a moving rail (107) configured to move the moving coupling part together with the moving support part.

[0186] The above moving support can be formed integrally with the base.

[0187] The above discharge cover can be coupled to the rotary transmitter so as to be rotatable together with the rotary transmitter but movable with respect to the rotary transmitter.

[0188] The above-described rotary transmitter may include a part coupling portion (145) extending along the direction of movement of the discharge cover. The discharge cover may include a cover coupling portion (115) movably coupled to the part coupling portion. The discharge cover may be configured to limit rotation relative to the rotary transmitter as the part coupling portion and the cover coupling portion are coupled.

[0189] The above discharge device may be configured so that as the rotation driving source operates, the rotation transmitter rotates, and as the rotation transmitter rotates, the discharge cover rotates without linear movement.

[0190] The above discharge cover may include a cover opening (117) formed in a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the discharge cover. The cover opening may be located inside the housing when the discharge cover closes the discharge port, and at least a portion of the cover opening may be located outside the housing when the discharge cover opens the discharge port.

[0191] Based on the above discharge cover opening the discharge port, a portion of the air blown by the blower can be discharged through the discharge portion, and another portion of the air blown by the blower can be discharged through the discharge port.

[0192] The exhaust device may include an exhaust fan (161) operable to exhaust another portion of the air blown by the blower through the exhaust port while the exhaust cover is open to the exhaust port.

[0193] The above discharge device may be configured such that the rotational driving source is fixed to the base based on the movement of the discharge cover, and the movement driving source is fixed to the base based on the rotation of the discharge cover.

[0194] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment comprises a housing (10) including an inlet portion (13a), a discharge portion (13b), and a discharge port (16a), a blower (30) for circulating air into or out of the housing, and a discharge device (100) for guiding a portion of air blown to the discharge portion by the blower to the discharge port. The discharge device comprises a base (101) fixed to the housing and for mounting a movable driving source (102) and a rotational driving source (103), and a discharge cover (110) for opening and closing the discharge port, the discharge cover being movable and rotatable with respect to the base. The discharge device is configured such that while the discharge cover moves, the rotational driving source is fixed to the base, and while the discharge cover rotates, the movable driving source is fixed to the base.

[0195] The discharge device may include a rotating member (120) connected to the moving driving source and rotatable with respect to the base, a switching member (130) coupled to the rotating member so as to be rotatable together with the rotating member but movable with respect to the rotating member, and a moving support member (106) for guiding movement of the switching member while the rotating member rotates.

[0196] The above discharge device may be configured such that, as the moving driving source operates, the rotating member rotates, the switching member rotates and moves as the rotating member rotates, and as the switching member rotates and moves, the discharge cover moves without rotation to open and close the discharge port.

[0197] The above discharge device may include a rotation transmission part (140) for receiving power from the rotation driving source and rotating the discharge cover.

[0198] The above discharge device may be configured so that, as the rotational driving source operates, the rotational transmission part rotates, and as the rotational transmission part rotates, the discharge cover rotates without moving.

[0199] According to the present disclosure, the air conditioner includes an exhaust device, so that purified air can be exhausted in various ways.

[0200] According to the present disclosure, since the movable driving source and the rotational driving source of the exhaust device are both mounted and fixed on the base, the stability of operation of the air conditioner can be improved.

[0201] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0202] While this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to various exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the appended claims, and their equivalents. Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the embodiments described herein can be used in conjunction with any other embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. A housing including an inlet portion, an outlet portion, and a discharge port; A blower for circulating air inside or outside the housing; and It includes an exhaust device for guiding a portion of the air blown to the exhaust section by the blower to the exhaust port; The above discharge device, A base fixed to the above housing and for mounting a moving driving source and a rotating driving source; As a discharge cover for opening and closing the above discharge port, a discharge cover that is movable and rotatable with respect to the base; A moving transmission device for moving the discharge cover by receiving power from the moving driving source; and An air conditioner including a rotational transmission device for rotating the discharge cover by receiving power from the rotational driving source.

2. In paragraph 1, The above moving transmission part is, A rotating member including a gear connected to the above moving driving source and rotatable with respect to the base; A switching member including a ring coupled to the rotating member so as to be rotatable with the rotating member but movable with respect to the rotating member; and An air conditioner including a moving support for guiding movement of the switching member while the rotating member rotates.

3. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which the switching member is coupled to the discharge cover so as to be movable together with the discharge cover but rotatable with respect to the discharge cover.

4. In paragraph 3, The above discharge cover includes a rotating support provided along the perimeter of the above discharge cover, The above switching member includes a rotational coupling part rotatably coupled to the rotational support part, An air conditioner in which the above switching member is configured to limit movement of the discharge cover as the rotation support member and the rotation coupling member are coupled.

5. In paragraph 4, The above discharge device, As the above moving driving source operates, the rotating member rotates, As the above rotating member rotates, the above switching member rotates and moves, An air conditioner configured such that as the switching member rotates and moves, the discharge cover moves without rotating and opens and closes the discharge port.

6. In paragraph 2, The above rotating member includes a movement guide for guiding the movement of the switching member, An air conditioner wherein the above switching member includes a movable coupling part movably coupled to the movable guide.

7. In paragraph 6, An air conditioner comprising a movable cover including a movable rail configured to move the movable coupling unit together with the movable support unit.

8. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which the above movable support is formed integrally with the base.

9. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner in which the discharge cover is coupled to the rotary transmitter so as to be rotatable together with the rotary transmitter but movable with respect to the rotary transmitter.

10. In paragraph 9, The above rotary transmitter includes a part coupling portion extending along the direction of movement of the discharge cover, The above discharge cover includes a cover joint that is movably coupled to the part joint, An air conditioner in which the above discharge cover is configured to limit rotation of the rotary transmitter as the part coupling portion and the cover coupling portion are coupled.

11. In paragraph 10, The above discharge device, As the above rotational driving source operates, the rotational transmitter rotates, An air conditioner in which the discharge cover is configured to rotate without linear movement as the rotary transmitter rotates.

12. In paragraph 1, The above discharge cover includes a cover opening formed in a portion of the outer surface of the above discharge cover, The above cover opening is, When the above discharge cover closes the above discharge port, it is located inside the housing, An air conditioner wherein at least a portion of the exhaust cover is located outside the housing when the exhaust port is opened.

13. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner in which a portion of the air blown by the blower can be discharged through the discharge port based on the discharge cover opening the discharge port, and another portion of the air blown by the blower can be discharged through the discharge port.

14. In paragraph 13, An air conditioner comprising an exhaust fan operable to exhaust another portion of the air blown by the blower through the exhaust port while the exhaust cover opens the exhaust port.

15. In paragraph 1, The above discharge device, Based on the movement of the above discharge cover, the rotation driving source is fixed to the base, An air conditioner in which the moving driving source is fixed to the base based on the rotation of the above discharge cover.

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