Air conditioner

Abstract

The air conditioner comprises: a housing; a blower for circulating air into or out of a housing; a photocatalytic filter provided to deodorize air flowing due to the blower; a filter case to which the photocatalytic filter can be separably mounted and which includes a fixed rail part for guiding movement of the photocatalytic filter while the photocatalytic filter is mounted to or separated from the filter case; and a light source device coupled to one side of the filter case. The filter case includes a plurality of through-holes which are provided at one side of the filter case and, when the photocatalytic filter has been mounted to the filter case, are opened toward the light source device and the photocatalytic filter to allow light radiated toward the photocatalytic filter from the light source device to pass therethrough.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner having an improved structure.

[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] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner in which a photocatalytic filter is more easily mounted on or removed from a filter case.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner having improved accessibility to a control box.

[0007] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0008] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, a photocatalytic filter for deodorizing air flowing by the blower, a filter case in which the photocatalytic filter is detachably mountable, the filter case including a fixed rail for guiding movement of the photocatalytic filter while the photocatalytic filter is mounted on or detached from the filter case, and a light source device coupled to one side of the filter case. The filter case includes a plurality of through holes provided on one side of the filter case and open toward the light source device and the photocatalytic filter so that light irradiated by the light source device toward the photocatalytic filter passes through when the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case.

[0009] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing having an inlet and an outlet, a filter case provided inside the housing and positioned between the inlet and the outlet, and a photocatalytic filter that can be detachably mounted by sliding on the filter case. The filter case comprises a base portion having a light source device mounted on an upper surface thereof and a through hole formed therein through which light irradiated by the light source device passes, a pair of side covers extending downward from both ends of the base portion, and a pair of fixed rail portions protruding from the inner surface of each of the pair of side covers to guide movement of the photocatalytic filter when the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case.

[0010] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing having an inlet and an outlet, a first filter configured to filter air flowing into the housing through the inlet, a control box disposed below the first filter, a control box cover disposed between the first filter and the control box to cover an upper side of the control box and having an elastic member disposed on the inside to press the first filter upward, a filter case disposed above the first filter, and a second filter detachably mountable by sliding to the filter case to deodorize air passing through the first filter.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 is an enlarged drawing of area A shown in Figure 1.

[0013] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a blower panel of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an exploded view of a blower panel and a photocatalytic filter of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a deodorizing device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 7 is a drawing of the deodorizing device illustrated in Fig. 6 viewed from below.

[0018] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the deodorizing device illustrated in Figure 6 in an exploded form.

[0019] Figure 9 is a drawing of the deodorizing device illustrated in Figure 6, viewed from below.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of a photocatalytic filter according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a fixed rail portion, hook, and peripheral configuration of a filter case according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' shown in Fig. 6.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a photocatalytic filter mounted in a filter case so that the first side of the filter frame faces the light source device.

[0024] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a photocatalytic filter mounted in a filter case so that the second side of the filter frame faces the light source device.

[0025] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of area C shown in Figure 13.

[0026] Fig. 16 is a drawing illustrating a deodorizing device according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 17 is a drawing showing the deodorizing device illustrated in Figure 16 in an exploded form.

[0028] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing an exploded view of a part of a blower panel and a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating a control box cover according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 20 is a drawing of the control box cover shown in Figure 19 viewed from below.

[0031] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a control box cover according to one embodiment positioned over a control box.

[0032] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing a dust collector according to one embodiment with the dust collector removed from the inside of the housing.

[0033] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of a control box cover according to one embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 24 is a drawing showing a dust collector according to one embodiment mounted inside a housing.

[0035] Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a dust collector arranged on a control box cover according to one embodiment.

[0036] 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.

[0037] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various embodiments will be described in 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.

[0098] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged drawing of area A shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an exploded drawing of a blower panel of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the air conditioner (1) may include a housing (10). The housing (10) may form the exterior of the air conditioner (1).

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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). That is, a plurality of blower panels (12) may be provided. 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 panel. The fourth blower panel may be referred to as a left panel.

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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.

[0107] The housing (10) may include an inlet (13a) and an outlet (13b). The inlet (13a) may be provided so that air from outside the housing (10) may be introduced into the inside of the housing (10). The outlet (13b) may be provided so that air from inside 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).

[0108] 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).

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] The inlet (13a) and outlet (13b) may be formed in the first blower panel, the second blower panel, the third blower panel, and the fourth blower panel, respectively. Correspondingly, 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.

[0113] 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).

[0114] 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).

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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).

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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 be introduced through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) and to be discharged through the outlet (13b) and the outlet opening (15). That is, the blower (30) may circulate air into or out of the housing (10). 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.

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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).

[0122] A flow path (50) may be formed within the housing (10). The flow path (50) may extend from the inlet (13a) to the outlet (13b). Air blown by the blower (30) may flow into the flow path (50).

[0123] Air can pass through the housing (10) along the air flow direction. The air flow direction can be a direction from upstream to downstream of the flow path (50) 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 discharge opening (15) and the discharge portion (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 (40), the deodorizing device (100), 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.

[0124] 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 (50) therein. The air guide (17) may guide air inside the housing (10) and / or in the flow path (50) 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).

[0125] The 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 part of a flow path (50) 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).

[0126] The air conditioner (1) may include an exhaust device (20). The exhaust device (20) may be mounted on a housing (10). The exhaust device (20) may be mounted on a frame body (11) of the housing (10). The exhaust device (20) may be mounted on an upper part (11a) of the frame body (11). The exhaust device (20) may be located between the upper part (11a) of the frame body (11) and the upper frame (16).

[0127] The discharge device (20) may include a discharge cover (21). The discharge cover (21) may be provided to open and close a discharge port (16a) formed in the upper frame (16). The discharge cover (21) may be provided to be movable in an up-and-down direction with respect to the housing (10). The discharge cover (21) may be provided to be rotatable with respect to the housing (10).

[0128] The discharge cover (21) may include a cover opening (21a) formed on a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the discharge cover (21). The cover opening (21a) may be located inside the housing (10) when the discharge cover (21) closes the discharge port (16a). At least a portion of the cover opening (21a) may be located outside the housing (10) when the discharge cover (21) opens the discharge port (16a).

[0129] The exhaust device (20) may include an exhaust fan (22). The exhaust fan (22) may generate a blowing force to exhaust a portion of the air blown by the blower (30) through the exhaust port (16a).

[0130] When the exhaust cover (21) moves upward with respect to the housing (10), the exhaust fan (22) operates so that some of the air blown by the blower (30) can be discharged through the exhaust port (16a). That is, some of the air blown by the blower (30) can be discharged through the exhaust port (16a), and other some of the air blown by the blower (30) can be discharged through the exhaust portion (13b).

[0131] The air conditioner (1) may include a dust collector (40). The dust collector (40) may be configured to filter air. The dust collector (40) may capture aerosols in the air.

[0132] A dust collector (40) may be disposed inside the housing (10). The dust collector (40) may be positioned so that air introduced through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) may pass therethrough. The dust collector (40) 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 (40) may be disposed between the inlet (13a) and the discharge opening (13b). The dust collector (40) may be disposed between the inlet opening (14) and the discharge opening (15). The dust collector (40) 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).

[0133] For example, the dust collector (40) may be positioned below the blower (30). For example, the blower (30) may be positioned above the dust collector (40). For example, the dust collector (40) and the blower (30) may be positioned so that the deodorizing device (100) is interposed therebetween. However, the positions of the deodorizing device (100), the dust collector (40), and the blower (30) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0134] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of dust collectors (40). The plurality of dust collectors (40) may be arranged along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of dust collectors (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 dust collector and a second dust collector. However, there is no limitation on the number of dust collectors (40).

[0135] For example, the dust collector (40) may be provided as an electric dust collector including a first assembly (41) configured to charge an aerosol in the air, and a second assembly (42) configured to collect the aerosol charged by the first assembly (41). However, the type of the dust collector (40) is not limited thereto, and the dust collector (40) may also be provided as a filtration filter. In this document, a case in which the dust collector (40) is provided as an electric dust collector is specifically described.

[0136] In this document, the dust collector (40) may be referred to as a filter (40), a first filter (40), or a second filter (40). In this case, the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” do not limit the configuration.

[0137] The air conditioner (1) may include a deodorizing device (100). The deodorizing device (100) may be configured to deodorize air. The deodorizing device (100) may be configured to sterilize air. That is, air flowing inside the housing (10) by the blower (30) may be deodorized and sterilized by the deodorizing device (100).

[0138] The deodorizing device (100) may be placed inside the housing (10). The deodorizing device (100) may be positioned so that air introduced through the inlet (13a) and the inlet opening (14) may pass through. The deodorizing device (100) may be positioned so that air may pass through before being discharged through the discharge opening (15) and the discharge opening (13b). The deodorizing device (100) may be placed between the inlet (13a) and the discharge opening (13b). The deodorizing device (100) may be placed between the inlet opening (14) and the discharge opening (15).

[0139] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of deodorizing devices (100). The plurality of deodorizing devices (100) may be arranged along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The plurality of deodorizing devices (100) 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 (100).

[0140] The deodorizing device (100) may be provided to deodorize air that has passed through the dust collector (40). The deodorizing device (100) may be positioned downstream of the dust collector (40) in the air flow direction. The deodorizing device (100) may be arranged between the dust collector (40) and the discharge portion (13b). The deodorizing device (100) may be arranged between the dust collector (40) and the discharge opening (15). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the deodorizing device (100) may also be positioned upstream of the dust collector (40) in the air flow direction. In this case, the dust collector (40) may be provided to capture aerosols in the air that has passed through the deodorizing device (100).

[0141] For example, the deodorizing device (100) may be positioned above the dust collector (40). For example, the dust collector (40) may be positioned below the deodorizing device (100). For example, the deodorizing device (100) may be positioned between the dust collector (40) and the blower (30). However, the positions of the deodorizing device (100), the dust collector (40), and the blower (30) are not limited to the examples described above.

[0142] 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 (40), the deodorizing device (100), and the blower (30) are not limited to the above-described examples. In this document, a case in which the deodorizing device (100) is positioned above the dust collector (40) and the blower (30) is positioned above the deodorizing device (100) is specifically described.

[0143] For example, the air conditioner (1) may omit the blower (30), deodorizing device (100), and dust collecting device (40) disposed below, and the components related thereto.

[0144] The dust collector (40) may be positioned on the flow path (50). The deodorizing device (100) may be positioned on the flow path (50). The blower (30) may be positioned on the flow path (50). For example, air introduced into the flow path (50) through the inlet (13a) may flow to the discharge portion (13b) after passing through the dust collector (40), the deodorizing device (100), and the blower (30). The air that has flowed to the discharge portion (13b) may exit from the flow path (50).

[0145] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a blower panel and a photocatalytic filter of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a deodorizing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the deodorizing device illustrated in FIG. 6 as viewed from below. FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the deodorizing device illustrated in FIG. 6. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the deodorizing device illustrated in FIG. 6 as viewed from below. FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the photocatalytic filter according to one embodiment.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 10, the deodorizing device (100) may include a photocatalytic filter (110). The photocatalytic filter (110) may be configured to deodorize air. The photocatalytic filter (110) may be configured to sterilize air. That is, air flowing inside the housing (10) by the blower (30) may be deodorized and sterilized by the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0147] In this document, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be referred to as a filter (110), a first filter (110), or a second filter (110). In this case, the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” do not limit the configuration.

[0148] The deodorizing device (100) may include a filter case (120). The filter case (120) may be provided inside the housing (10). The filter case (120) may be placed between the inlet (13a) and the outlet (13b). The filter case (120) may be placed on top of the dust collecting device (40).

[0149] A photocatalytic filter (110) may be detachably mounted on the filter case (120). Specifically, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be detachably mounted on the filter case (120) by sliding. More specifically, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be detachably mounted on the filter case (120) by sliding in a direction intersecting the direction in which the filter case (120) and the light source device (130) to be described later are arranged. For example, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be detachably mounted on the filter case (120) by sliding in the front-back direction (X direction).

[0150] When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the photocatalytic filter (110) may be arranged to deodorize air flowing inside the housing (10) by the blower (30). In other words, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the photocatalytic filter (110) may be arranged to deodorize air passing through the dust collector (40).

[0151] The deodorizing device (100) may include a light source device (130). The light source device (130) may be coupled to one side of the filter case (120). Specifically, the light source device (130) may be coupled to the upper side of the filter case (120). When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the photocatalytic filter (110) may be placed on the lower side of the filter case (120), and the light source device (130) may irradiate light downward toward the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0152] However, the coupling position of the light source device (130) is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the light source device (130) may be placed on the lower side of the filter case (120). In this document, a case in which the light source device (130) is coupled to the upper side of the filter case (120) is specifically described.

[0153] The photocatalytic filter (110) may include a filter member (111). The filter member (111) reacts with light irradiated from the light source device (130) to generate a reactant, and the reactant can decompose odorous substances to deodorize the air. The filter member (111) may be composed of a base and a photocatalyst applied to the base. The photocatalyst may include at least one of titanium dioxide, tungsten trioxide, manganese dioxide, and zinc oxide. However, the material of the photocatalyst is not limited thereto and may include various materials.

[0154] A plurality of filter members (111) may be provided. Each of the plurality of filter members (111) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of through holes (121d) to be described later. The number of filter members (111) may correspond to the number of through holes (121d). For example, 12 filter members (111) may be provided. However, there is no special limitation on the number of filter members (111).

[0155] The photocatalytic filter (110) may include a filter frame (112). The filter frame (112) may be provided to support a filter member (111). Specifically, the filter frame (112) may be provided to support each of a plurality of filter members (111).

[0156] Referring to FIG. 10, the filter frame (112) may include an upper filter frame (1121) and a lower filter frame (1122). The upper filter frame (1121) may be coupled to an upper surface of the lower filter frame (1122). Specifically, the upper frame coupling portion (1121a) of the upper filter frame (1121) may be coupled to a lower frame coupling portion (1122a) of the lower filter frame (1122), thereby allowing the upper filter frame (1121) to be coupled to an upper surface of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0157] The filter frame (112) may include a filter member insertion hole (112b). A filter member (111) may be inserted into the filter member insertion hole (112b). The filter member insertion hole (112b) may be formed by connecting the upper filter member insertion hole (1121b) of the upper filter frame (1121) and the lower filter member insertion hole (1122b) of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0158] A plurality of filter member insertion holes (112b) may be provided. Each of the plurality of filter member insertion holes (112b) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of filter members (111). The number of filter member insertion holes (112b) may correspond to the number of filter members (111). For example, 12 filter member insertion holes (112b) may be provided. However, there is no special limitation on the number of filter member insertion holes (112b).

[0159] The filter frame (112) may include a first flow path opening (112c). The first flow path opening (112c) may be open to allow air to pass through. The first flow path opening (112c) may be provided at a central portion of the filter frame (112). The first flow path opening (112c) may be surrounded by a plurality of filter member insertion holes (112b). The first flow path opening (112c) may be formed by connecting the upper flow path opening (1121c) of the upper filter frame (1121) and the lower flow path opening (1122c) of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0160] The filter frame (112) may include a handle portion (112d). The handle portion (112d) may be provided at one end of the filter frame (112). The handle portion (112d) may include a recessed portion formed to be recessed so as to be gripped. A user of the air conditioner (1) may grip the handle portion (112d) to insert the photocatalytic filter (110) into the filter case (120) or to withdraw the photocatalytic filter (110) from the filter case (120). The handle portion (112d) may be formed by combining the upper handle portion (1121d) of the upper filter frame (1121) and the lower handle portion (1122d) of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0161] The filter frame (112) may include a pair of movable rail portions (112e). The pair of movable rail portions (112e) may be formed by protruding from both sides of the filter frame (112). Through this configuration, while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted or removed from the filter case (120), the pair of movable rail portions (112e) may be slidably supported on a pair of fixed rail portions (125) to be described later. The pair of movable rail portions (112e) may be formed by contact between a pair of upper movable rail portions (1121e) of the upper filter frame (1121) and a pair of lower movable rail portions (1122e) of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0162] The filter case (120) may include a base portion (121). The base portion (121) may be provided on one side of the filter case (120) so that the light source device (130) may be mounted thereon. Specifically, the base portion (121) may be provided on the upper side of the filter case (120). The light source device (130) may be mounted on the upper surface of the base portion (121). A second flow path opening (121a) may be formed in the center of the base portion (121) so that air may pass through.

[0163] The base portion (121) may include a flat portion (121b) and a light source substrate mounting portion (121c) that is inclined upward with respect to the flat portion (121b). A light source substrate (131) on which a light source (132), which will be described later, is mounted may be mounted on an upper surface of the light source substrate mounting portion (121c). The light source substrate mounting portion (121c) may be provided on an inner side relative to the flat portion (121b). In other words, the light source substrate mounting portion (121c) may be provided closer to the second flow path opening (121a) than the flat portion (121b).

[0164] The base portion (121) may include a through hole (121d) provided in the light source substrate mounting portion (121c). The through hole (121d) may be opened toward the light source device (130). When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the through hole (121d) may be opened toward the filter member (111). According to this configuration, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the through hole (121d) may be provided so that light irradiated by the light source device (130) toward the photocatalytic filter (110) may pass through. That is, the light irradiated by the light source device (130) may pass through the through hole (121d) and reach the filter member (111). In other words, the through hole (121d) can prevent the light irradiated by the light source device (130) toward the photocatalytic filter (110) from being blocked.

[0165] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the light source device (130) can be coupled to one side of the filter case (120). In addition, a through hole (121d) can be provided on one side of the filter case (120) to which the light source device (130) is coupled. According to this configuration, the deodorizing device (100) can have a more compact shape. Although this document only describes the case where the light source device (130) is coupled to the upper side of the filter case (120), the light source device (130) can also be coupled to the lower side of the filter case (120), in which case the through hole (121d) can be formed on the lower side of the filter case (120).

[0166] A plurality of light source substrate mounting portions (121c) may be provided. The plurality of light source substrate mounting portions (121c) may be arranged to surround the second flow path opening (121a). Each of the plurality of light source substrate mounting portions (121c) may extend in the left-right direction (Y direction) or the front-back direction (X direction).

[0167] A plurality of through holes (121d) may be provided. The plurality of through holes (121d) may be arranged along the direction in which each of the plurality of light source substrate mounting portions (121c) extends. That is, the plurality of through holes (121d) may be arranged to surround the second flow path opening (121a).

[0168] Each of the plurality of through holes (121d) may be provided at a position corresponding to the position of each of the plurality of light sources (132) to be described later. In addition, each of the plurality of through holes (121d) may be provided at a position corresponding to the position of each of the plurality of filter members (111) such that each of the plurality of through holes (121d) is opened toward a different filter member (111). Through this configuration, the light source device (130) can irradiate a uniform level of light to each of the plurality of filter members (111).

[0169] The number of through holes (121d) may correspond to the number of filter elements (111). For example, 12 through holes (121d) may be provided. However, there is no special limitation on the number of through holes (121d).

[0170] The filter case (120) may include a pair of side covers (122). The pair of side covers (122) may extend downward from both ends of the base portion (121). Through this configuration, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the pair of side covers (122) may cover both sides of the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0171] The filter case (120) may include a rear cover (123). The rear cover (123) may extend downward from the rear end of the base portion (121). Through this configuration, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the rear cover (123) may cover the rear of the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0172] The filter case (120) may include a filter inlet (124). The filter inlet (124) may be formed by a front end of a base portion (121) and front ends of a pair of side covers (122). The filter inlet (124) may be provided on the opposite side of the rear cover (123). The filter inlet (124) may be opened so that the photocatalytic filter (110) may be inserted while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120). Specifically, when one of the plurality of blower panels (12) is separated, the filter inlet (124) may be opened toward the outside of the frame body (11) so that the photocatalytic filter (110) may be inserted. Through this configuration, the user of the air conditioner (1) can access the filter inlet (124) by only detaching the blower panel (12), so that it becomes easier to mount the photocatalytic filter (110) on the filter case (120) or detach it from the filter case (120).

[0173] The filter case (120) may include a fixed rail portion (125). The fixed rail portion (125) may extend in one direction. For example, the fixed rail portion (125) may extend in the front-back direction (X direction). While the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted or removed from the filter case (120), the fixed rail portion (125) may guide the movement of the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0174] The fixed rail portion (125) may include a pair of fixed rail portions (125). That is, the filter case (120) may include a pair of fixed rail portions (125). The pair of fixed rail portions (125) may protrude from the inner surface of each of the pair of side covers (123). While the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on or removed from the filter case (120), the pair of fixed rail portions (125) may slidably support the pair of movable rail portions (112e). Through this configuration, the pair of fixed rail portions (125) may guide the movement of the photocatalytic filter (110) while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on or removed from the filter case (120). That is, the photocatalytic filter (110) can be detachably mounted by sliding on the filter case (120) through a pair of movable rail parts (112e) and a pair of fixed rail parts (125), and thus, mounting the photocatalytic filter (110) on the filter case (120) can be made easier.

[0175] The light source device (130) may include a light source substrate (131). The light source substrate (131) may extend in one direction. The light source substrate (131) may be mounted on a light source substrate mounting portion (121c). Specifically, a light source substrate case (133) to be described later is mounted on the base portion (121) of the filter case (120), so that the light source substrate (131) may be mounted on the light source substrate mounting portion (121c). The light source substrate (131) may extend in the same direction as the direction in which the light source substrate mounting portion (121c) extends.

[0176] A plurality of light source substrates (131) may be provided. Each of the plurality of light source substrates (131) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of light source substrate mounting portions (121c). The number of light source substrates (131) may correspond to the number of light source substrate mounting portions (121c). For example, four light source substrates (131) may be provided. However, there is no special limitation on the number of light source substrates (131).

[0177] The light source device (130) may include a light source (132). The light source (132) may be provided on the lower surface of the light source substrate (131). The light source (132) may be electrically connected to the light source substrate (131). The light source (132) may include a UV-LED and may emit UV light. However, the type of the light source (132) or the type of light emitted by the light source (132) is not limited thereto, and there is no special limitation on the material of the light source (132).

[0178] A plurality of light sources (132) may be provided. Each of the plurality of light sources (132) may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of through holes (121d). The number of light sources (132) may correspond to the number of through holes (121d). For example, 12 light sources (132) may be provided. However, there is no special limitation on the number of light sources (132).

[0179] The light source device (130) may include a light source substrate case (133). The light source substrate case (133) may support a light source substrate (131). A third flow path opening (133a) may be formed in the center of the light source substrate case (133) to allow air to pass through.

[0180] The light source substrate (131) can be coupled to the lower surface of the light source substrate case (133). Specifically, a light source substrate mounting surface (133a, see FIG. 15) formed to be inclined is provided on the lower surface of the light source substrate case (133), and the light source substrate (131) can be mounted on the light source substrate mounting surface (133a). Accordingly, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the light source substrate (131) can be provided to be inclined with respect to the filter member (111) of the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0181] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a fixed rail portion, a hook, and a peripheral configuration of a filter case according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' shown in Fig. 6.

[0182] Referring to FIGS. 7, 11, and 12, each of a pair of fixed rail parts (125) may include a plurality of guide rails (1251). While the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted or removed from the filter case (120), each of the plurality of guide rails (1251) may guide the movement of the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0183] A plurality of guide rails (1251) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the plurality of guide rails (1251) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the front-rear direction (X direction).

[0184] A plurality of guide rails (1251) can extend in the same direction as each other. Specifically, the plurality of guide rails (1251) can extend in the front-back direction (X direction). According to this configuration, while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted or removed from the filter case (120), the plurality of guide rails (1251) can slidably support a pair of movable rail parts (112e) in the front-back direction (X direction).

[0185] Each of the plurality of guide rails (1251) may include a filter mounting portion (1251a). The filter mounting portion (1251a) may be provided so that one of a pair of movable rail portions (112e) is mounted while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted or removed from the filter case (120).

[0186] The filter mounting portion (1251a) can extend in the front-back direction (X direction). That is, the filter mounting portion (1251a) can be arranged in the same direction as the direction in which the plurality of guide rails (1251) are arranged. The filter mounting portion (1251a) can be provided flat.

[0187] Each of the plurality of guide rails (1251) may include an inclined portion (1251b). The inclined portion (1251b) may extend downwardly from one end of the filter mounting portion (1251a). Specifically, the inclined portion (1251b) may extend downwardly from one end of the filter mounting portion (1251a) that is positioned adjacent to the filter inlet portion (124). Through this configuration, while the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted in the filter case (120), the inclined portion (1251b) may guide one of the pair of movable rail portions (112e) entering toward the inclined portion (1251b) to the filter mounting portion (1251a).

[0188] The plurality of guide rails (1251) may include a first guide rail (1252), a second guide rail (1253), and a third guide rail (1254). The first guide rail (1252), the second guide rail (1253), and the third guide rail (1254) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the first guide rail (1252), the second guide rail (1253), and the third guide rail (1254) may extend in the front-back direction (X direction).

[0189] The first guide rail (1252) may be positioned at the frontmost position, and the third guide rail (1254) may be positioned at the rearmost position. The first guide rail (1252) may have a relatively short length extending in the front-back direction (X direction), and the second guide rail (1253) and the third guide rail (1254) may have relatively long lengths extending in the front-back direction (X direction). In addition, the lengths extending in the front-back direction (X direction) of the second guide rail (1253) and the third guide rail (1254) may be approximately the same.

[0190] In the present disclosure, the plurality of guide rails (1251) include a total of three guide rails (1252, 1253, 1254), but the number of guide rails (1251) is not limited thereto. That is, there is no particular limitation on the number of guide rails (1251), and only one guide rail (1251) may be provided.

[0191] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the filter case (120) may include a pair of first fixing parts (126). Each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) may be provided on each of the pair of side covers (122). When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the pair of first fixing parts (126) may fix the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0192] The filter frame (112) may include a pair of second fixing parts (112f). Each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be provided on each of the pair of movable rail parts (112e). When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be provided at a position corresponding to each of the positions of the pair of first fixing parts (126). When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be coupled with each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) to fix the photocatalytic filter (110).

[0193] For example, each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) may be a hook (126) having a hook projection (1261) and a hook projection connecting part (1262). For example, each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be an insertion groove (112f) into which the hook projection (1261) is inserted. However, the types of the pair of first fixing parts (126) and the pair of second fixing parts (112f) are not limited thereto. For example, each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) may be an insertion groove and each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be a hook. In this document, a case in which each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) is a hook (126) and each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) is an insertion groove (112f) is described in detail.

[0194] Each of a pair of hooks (126) may be provided in a side cover opening (122a) formed in each of a pair of side covers (122). The side cover opening (122a) may be provided on a plurality of guide rails (1251). For example, the side cover opening (122a) may be provided on a first guide rail (1252).

[0195] Each of the pair of hooks (126) may include a hook projection (1261). One portion of the hook projection (1261) may be positioned inside the side cover opening (122a), and the other portion of the hook projection (1261) may protrude toward the inside of the filter case (120).

[0196] Each of the pair of hooks (126) may include a hook projection connecting portion (1262). The hook projection connecting portion (1262) may connect the hook projection (1261) and the side cover (122). Due to this configuration, the hook projection (1261) may move in the direction in which the hook projection (1261) is pressed as it is pressed toward the inside or outside of the filter case (120).

[0197] The hook protrusion connecting portion (1262) can extend in the forward and backward direction (X direction). That is, the hook protrusion connecting portion (1262) can extend in the same direction as the direction in which each of the plurality of guide rails (1251) extends.

[0198] Each of the pair of insertion grooves (112f) may be formed by being sunken into the outer surface of each of the pair of movable rail parts (112e). The pair of insertion grooves (112f) may be formed by contact between a pair of upper insertion grooves (1121f) of the upper filter frame (1121) and a pair of lower insertion grooves (1122f) of the lower filter frame (1122).

[0199] While the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), each of the pair of movable rail parts (112e) can press the hook projections (1261) of each of the pair of hooks (126) toward the outside of the filter case (120). Accordingly, the hook projections (1261) can move toward the outside of the filter case (120) by passing through the side cover opening (122a).

[0200] When the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), a hook projection (1261) of each of a pair of hooks (126) can be inserted into each of a pair of insertion grooves (112f). By having the hook projection (1261) of each of a pair of hooks (126) inserted into a pair of insertion grooves (112f), the photocatalytic filter (110) can be fixed while mounted on the filter case (120). That is, since a separate fastening member is not required to fix the photocatalytic filter (110) while mounted on the filter case (120), it can be easier to mount the photocatalytic filter (110) on the filter case (120).

[0201] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a photocatalytic filter mounted in a filter case such that the first side of the filter frame faces the light source device. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a photocatalytic filter mounted in a filter case such that the second side of the filter frame faces the light source device. Fig. 15 is an enlarged view illustrating area C shown in Fig. 13.

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the filter frame (112) may be provided to be symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction. Specifically, when the photocatalytic filter (110) is mounted on the filter case (120), the filter frame (112) may be provided to be symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction. More specifically, the filter frame (112) may be provided to be symmetrical with respect to the imaginary center line (L) shown in FIG. 12.

[0203] The filter frame (112) may include a first side (112g) and a second side (112h) provided on the opposite side of the first side. One side of a filter member (111) may be provided on the first side (112g) of the filter frame (112). The other side of the filter member (111) may be provided on the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112). The second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) may be provided on the opposite side of the first side (112g) of the filter frame (112). The first side (112g) and the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) may have the same shape.

[0204] Since the filter frame (112) is arranged to be symmetrical with respect to the up-down direction, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be mounted on the filter case (120) such that the first side (112g) of the filter frame (112) faces the upper side of the filter frame (112), or may be mounted on the filter case (120) such that the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) faces the upper side of the filter frame (112). In other words, the photocatalytic filter (110) may be mounted on the filter case (120) such that the first side (112g) of the filter frame (112) faces the light source device (130), or the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) faces the light source device (130).

[0205] As described above, the filter frame (112) may include a pair of movable rail portions (112e). Each of the pair of movable rail portions (112e) may be formed to be stepped from the first side (112g) and the second side (112h). At this time, the filter frame (112) is provided to be symmetrical with respect to the up-down direction, so that the stepped distance (H1) of each of the pair of movable rail portions (112e) from the first side (112g) may be the same as the stepped distance (H2) of each of the pair of movable rail portions (112e) from the second side (112h).

[0206] Since the filter frame (112) is symmetrical with respect to the upper and lower "sleeves*", the photocatalytic filter (110) can be mounted on the filter case (120) regardless of which part of the first side (112g) and the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) faces the upper side of the filter frame (112). Accordingly, the user of the air conditioner (1) can mount the photocatalytic filter (110) on the filter case (120) without distinguishing between the first side (112g) and the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112). In addition, the photocatalytic filter (110) can exhibit the same performance regardless of which part of the first side (112g) and the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) faces the light source device (130). Therefore, it can be easier to mount the photocatalytic filter (110) on the filter case (120). In addition, since both sides of the filter member (111) can be used for photocatalytic reaction, the performance of the photocatalytic filter (110) can be maintained more effectively.

[0207] In the present disclosure, the fact that the filter frame (112) is provided symmetrically with respect to the vertical direction may include cases where some of the configurations of the filter frame (112) are not symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction. For example, the upper frame joining portion (1121a) of the upper filter frame (1121) or the lower frame joining portion (1122b) of the lower filter frame (1122) may not have a configuration that is symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction. That is, unless it is a configuration essential for mounting the photocatalytic filter (110) to the filter case (120), such as a pair of movable rail portions (112e), or an essential configuration for securing the performance of the photocatalytic filter (110), such as the first side (112g) and the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112) on which one side or the other side of the filter member (111) is provided, it may not be symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 15, each of the plurality of light sources (132) can irradiate light to the entire area of ​​one side of the corresponding filter member (111). Accordingly, the light emitted from each of the plurality of light sources (132) can be evenly irradiated to one side of the corresponding filter member (111). For example, the angle (A) at which each of the plurality of light sources (132) irradiates light can be approximately 120 degrees. However, the angle (A) at which each of the plurality of light sources (132) irradiates light is not limited thereto.

[0209] Fig. 16 is a drawing illustrating a deodorizing device according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 is an exploded view of the deodorizing device illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0210] Hereinafter, a deodorizing device (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. In describing the deodorizing device (400), components that are substantially the same as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 15 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0211] The deodorizing device (400) may include a photocatalytic filter (410) and a filter case (420).

[0212] The filter frame (412) of the photocatalytic filter (410) may include a third fixing member (412a) protruding from the rear end of the filter frame (412). A fastening member may be inserted into the third fixing member (412a).

[0213] A fourth fixing part (423a) may be provided on the rear cover (423) of the filter case (420). A fastening member may be inserted into the fourth fixing part (423a). When the photocatalytic filter (410) is mounted on the filter case (420), the third fixing part (412a) and the fourth fixing part (423a) may be connected. When the photocatalytic filter (410) is mounted on the filter case (420), by inserting fastening members into the inside of the third fixing part (412a) and the fourth fixing part (423a), the photocatalytic filter (410) may be more firmly fixed. At this time, the first fixing part of the filter frame (412) and the second fixing part of the filter case (420) may be omitted.

[0214] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of a portion of a blower panel and a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 19 is a view illustrating a control box cover according to one embodiment. FIG. 20 is a view of the control box cover illustrated in FIG. 19 as viewed from below. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a control box cover according to one embodiment is placed on a control box. FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a state in which a dust collector according to one embodiment is removed from the inside of a housing. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a control box cover according to one embodiment. FIG. 24 is a view illustrating a state in which a dust collector according to one embodiment is mounted inside a housing. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a dust collector is placed on a control box cover according to one embodiment.

[0215] Referring to FIGS. 18 to 25, the dust collector (40) can be detachably mounted inside the housing (10) by sliding. For example, the dust collector (40) can be detachably mounted inside the housing (10) by sliding in the front-back direction (X direction). Specifically, the dust collector (40) can be detachably mounted inside the housing (10) by sliding through the dust collector insertion opening (11b) formed on one side of the frame body (11).

[0216] An air conditioner (1) may include a control box (200). The control box (200) may accommodate a plurality of electronic components (210) configured to control the operation of the air conditioner (1) and a printed circuit board (220) on which the plurality of electronic components (210) are mounted. An electronic component cover (230) that covers the plurality of electronic components (210) may be provided on an upper side of the plurality of electronic components (210).

[0217] The control box (200) may be placed on the lower side of the dust collector (40). In other words, the dust collector (40) may be placed between the filter case (120) of the deodorizing device (100) and the control box (200).

[0218] The air conditioner (1) may include a control box cover (300). The control box cover (300) may be provided on the upper side of the control box (200) so as to cover the upper side of the control box (200). In other words, the control box cover (300) may be placed between the dust collector (40) and the control box (200) so as to cover the upper side of the control box (200). The control box cover (300) may be in contact with the lower surface of the dust collector (40). The control box cover (300) may be supported by a cover support member (11c) of the frame body (11).

[0219] By placing the control box cover (300) between the dust collector (40) and the control box (200), the control box cover (300) can be arranged to press the dust collector (40) upward. That is, the control box cover (300) can simultaneously perform the function of covering the control box (200) and the function of pressing the dust collector (40) upward. Hereinafter, the configuration of the control box cover (300) will be described in detail.

[0220] The control box cover (300) may include a cover plate (310) that comes into contact with the lower surface of the dust collector (40). The cover plate (310) may include a base plate (311) and a protrusion (312) that protrudes upward from the base plate (311). The protrusion (312) may be provided to be stepped from the base plate (311). For example, the protrusion (312) may be provided in an approximately plate shape. When the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), the protrusion (312) may be inserted into a recessed portion (40a) of the dust collector (40), which will be described later. This will be described in detail later.

[0221] The cover plate (310) may include a coupling protrusion (311a) formed at each corner of the base plate (311). The coupling protrusions (313) may be provided in multiple numbers. Each of the multiple coupling protrusions (311a) may be inserted into each of the multiple coupling grooves (322a) described later, thereby coupling the cover plate (310) and the cover frame (320) described later.

[0222] The control box cover (300) may include a cover frame (320). The cover frame (320) may be coupled to the lower side of the cover plate (310) to support the cover plate (310). Specifically, the cover frame (320) may support the cover plate (310) so as to be able to move up and down. This will be described in detail later.

[0223] The cover frame (320) may include a cover frame body (321). The cover frame body (321) may be formed along the edge of the cover plate (310). That is, the cover plate (310) may be placed on the inside of the cover frame body (321). The lower surface of the cover frame body (321) may be in contact with the cover support member (11c). According to this configuration, the control box cover (300) may be supported by the cover support member (11c).

[0224] The cover frame (320) may include a guide wall (322) formed to extend downward from the inner surface of the cover frame body (321). The guide wall (322) may be provided to guide the vertical movement of the cover plate (310) when the cover plate (310) moves up and down.

[0225] The cover frame (320) may include a coupling groove (322a) formed at each corner of the guide wall (322). A plurality of coupling grooves (322a) may be provided. A plurality of coupling protrusions (311a) may be inserted into each of the plurality of coupling grooves (322a), thereby coupling the cover plate (310) and the cover frame (320).

[0226] The cover frame (320) may include a support rib (323) that protrudes from the lower end of the guide wall (322) toward the inside of the cover frame body (321). By placing the cover plate (310) on the support rib (323), the support rib (323) may support the cover plate (310).

[0227] The cover frame (320) may include an elastic member connecting portion (324) formed by protruding upward from each corner of the support rib (323). An elastic member (330), which will be described later, may be connected to the elastic member connecting portion (324). A plurality of elastic member connecting portions (324) may be provided. This will be described in detail later.

[0228] The cover frame (320) may include a cap portion (325). The cap portion (325) may be formed to protrude outward from one end of the frame body (321). A predetermined gap may be formed between the cap portion (325) and a portion of the frame body (11) located in front of the cap portion (325). Through this configuration, a user of the air conditioner (1) can lift the control box cover (300) by utilizing the gap.

[0229] The cover frame (320) may include a fastening member insertion portion (326) into which a fastening member is inserted. The fastening member insertion portion (326) may be provided on the lower side of the cap portion (325). The cover frame (320) may be fixed by inserting the fastening member into the fastening member insertion portion (326).

[0230] The control box cover (300) may include an elastic member (330). The elastic member (330) may be provided on the inside of the control box cover (300). The elastic member (330) may be disposed between the cover plate (310) and the cover frame (320). Specifically, the elastic member (330) may be disposed between the cover plate (310) and the cover frame (320) by being coupled to the elastic member coupling portion (324) of the cover frame (320).

[0231] The elastic member (330) may include a spring. However, the material of the elastic member (330) is not limited thereto.

[0232] The elastic member (330) may be provided in multiple pieces. Each of the multiple elastic members (330) may be provided to correspond to each of the multiple elastic member connecting portions (324).

[0233] The elastic member (330) can be in contact with the base plate (311) of the cover plate (310) while being connected to the elastic member connecting portion (324). That is, the elastic member (330) can support the cover plate (310). Through this configuration, the cover plate (310) can move up and down with respect to the cover frame (320). In addition, the elastic member (330) can press the cover plate (310) upward.

[0234] When the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), as the elastic member (330) presses the cover plate (310) upward, the cover plate (310) can press the dust collector (40) upward. That is, when the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), the elastic member (330) can press the cover plate (310) and the dust collector (40) in contact with the cover plate (310) upward. Accordingly, the dust collector (40) can be closely attached to the filter case (120) of the deodorizing device (100). Through this configuration, it is possible to prevent air flowing into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a) of the housing (10) from passing through the deodorizing device (100) without passing through the dust collector (40).

[0235] As described above, when the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), the cover plate (310) can press the dust collector (40) upward. Accordingly, the dust collector (40) can be fixed while being mounted inside the housing (10). Specifically, the cover plate (310) includes a protrusion (312) that protrudes upward from the base plate (311), and the dust collector (40) can include a recessed portion (40a) that is formed by being recessed in the lower surface to correspond with the protrusion (312) of the cover plate (310). When the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), as the elastic member (330) presses the cover plate (310) upward, the protrusion (312) of the cover plate (310) can be inserted into the recessed portion (40a) of the dust collector (40). Accordingly, the dust collector (40) can be fixedly mounted inside the housing (10).

[0236] The cover plate (310) may include an inclined projection (3121) protruding from one end of the protrusion (312). At this time, one end of the protrusion (312) may be an end provided on the opposite side of the end adjacent to the dust collecting device insertion opening (11b).

[0237] The inclined projection (3121) may protrude upward from one end of the protrusion (312). That is, the distance by which the inclined projection (3121) is stepped from the base plate (311) may be longer than the distance by which the protrusion (312) is stepped from the base plate (311). When the dust collector (40) is mounted inside the housing (10), the inclined projection (3121) is inserted into the recessed portion (40a) of the dust collector (40) together with the protrusion (312), so that the dust collector (40) can be more firmly fixed inside the housing (10).

[0238] The inclined projection (3121) may include an inclined surface (3121a) inclined with respect to the protrusion (312). The inclined surface (3121a) may be arranged to face the dust collector insertion opening (11b). The inclined surface (3121a) may prevent the dust collector (40) from being blocked from entering by the inclined projection (3121) while the dust collector (40) is being slidably inserted into the housing (10). That is, the inclined surface (3121a) may facilitate the slid insertion of the dust collector (40) into the housing (10).

[0239] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment comprises a housing (10), a blower (30) for circulating air into or out of the housing (10), a photocatalytic filter (110, 410) provided to deodorize air flowing by the blower (30), a filter case (120, 420) in which the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) can be detachably mounted, the filter case (120, 420) including a fixed rail part (125) for guiding movement of the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) while the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted or detached from the filter case (120, 420), and a light source device (130) coupled to one side of the filter case (120, 420). The filter case (120, 420) includes a plurality of through holes (121d) provided on one side of the filter case (120, 420) and open toward the light source device (130) and the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) so that light irradiated toward the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) by the light source device (130) passes through the filter case (120, 420) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0240] The housing (10) may include a frame body (11) and a plurality of blower panels (12) provided on the outside of the frame body (11). The filter case (120, 420) may include a filter inlet (124) that opens toward the outside of the frame body (11) so that the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is inserted when one of the plurality of blower panels (12) is separated.

[0241] The light source device (130) may be coupled to the upper side of the filter case (120, 420). When the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420), the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) may be placed on the lower side of the light source device (130).

[0242] The photocatalytic filter (110, 410) can be mounted on the filter case (120, 420) by sliding in a direction intersecting the direction in which the filter case (120, 420) and the light source device (130) are arranged.

[0243] The filter case (120, 420) may include a base portion (121) on the upper surface of which the light source device (130) is mounted and the plurality of through holes (121d) are provided, and a pair of side covers (122) extending downward from both ends of the base portion (121) to cover both sides of the photocatalyst filter (110, 410) when the photocatalyst filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420). When the photocatalyst filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420), the fixed rail portion (125) may include a pair of fixed rail portions (125) protruding from the inner surface of each of the pair of side covers (122) to guide the movement of the photocatalyst filter (110, 410).

[0244] The photocatalytic filter (110, 410) may include a filter member (111) and a filter frame (112, 412) provided to support the filter member (111). The filter frame (112, 412) may include a pair of movable rail parts (112e) formed to protrude from both sides of the filter frame (112, 412) so as to be slidably supported on the pair of fixed rail parts (125) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0245] Each of the above pair of fixed rail parts (125) may include a plurality of guide rails (1251) arranged to be spaced apart from each other and extending in the same direction.

[0246] The filter case (120, 420) may further include a filter inlet portion 124) that opens to allow the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) to be inserted when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420). Each of the plurality of guide rails (1251) may include a filter mounting portion (1251a) provided to allow one of the pair of movable rail portions (112e) to be mounted when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420), and may include a filter mounting portion (1251a) extending in the same direction as the direction in which the plurality of guide rails (1251) are arranged, and an inclined portion (1251b) extending downwardly from one end of the filter mounting portion (1251a) positioned adjacent to the filter inlet portion (124).

[0247] The above filter case (120, 420) may further include a pair of fixing parts (126) provided on each of the pair of side covers (122) to fix the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0248] The above pair of fixing parts (126) is a pair of first fixing parts (126), and the filter frame (112, 412) may further include a pair of second fixing parts (112f) provided at positions corresponding to the positions of each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) so as to fix the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) by combining with each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0249] Each of the pair of first fixing parts (126) may be a hook (126) having a hook projection (1261) protruding from one portion toward the inside of the filter case (120, 420). Each of the pair of second fixing parts (112f) may be an insertion groove (112f) formed by being sunken in the outer surface of each of the pair of movable rail parts (112e) so that the hook projection (1261) is inserted when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0250] The filter frame (112, 412) may include a first side (112g) provided with one side of the filter member (111) and a second side (112h) provided on the opposite side of the first side (112g) and provided with the other side of the filter member (111). The photocatalytic filter (110, 410) may be mounted on the filter case (120, 420) such that the first side (112g) of the filter frame (112, 412) faces the light source device (130) or the second side (112h) of the filter frame (112, 412) faces the light source device (130).

[0251] The air conditioner (1) may further include a control box (200) that accommodates a printed circuit board (220), a dust collector (40) that is disposed between the filter case (120, 420) and the control box (200), and a control box cover (300) that is disposed between the control box (200) and the dust collector (40) to cover the upper side of the control box (200). The control box cover (300) may include a cover plate (310) that is in contact with a lower surface of the dust collector (40), a cover frame (320) that is coupled to a lower side of the cover plate (310) to support the cover plate (310), and an elastic member (330) that is disposed between the cover plate (310) and the cover frame (320) to press upward the dust collector (40) that is in contact with the cover plate (310).

[0252] The cover plate (310) may include a base plate (311) that comes into contact with the elastic member (330) so as to be pressed upward by the elastic member (330) and a protrusion (312) that protrudes upward from the base plate (311). The dust collector (40) may include a recessed portion (40a) that is formed by being recessed into the lower surface of the dust collector (40) so as to correspond to the protrusion (312) of the cover plate (310).

[0253] The above cover plate (310) may further include an inclined projection (3121) that protrudes from one end of the protrusion (312) and has an inclined surface (3121a) inclined with respect to the protrusion (312).

[0254] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10) provided with an inlet (13a) and an outlet (13b), a filter case (120, 420) provided inside the housing (10) and positioned between the inlet (13a) and the outlet (13b), and a photocatalytic filter (110, 410) that can be detachably mounted by sliding on the filter case (120, 420). The above filter case (120, 420) includes a base portion (121) on which a light source device (130) is mounted on the upper surface and a through hole (121d) is provided to allow light irradiated by the light source device (130) to pass through, a pair of side covers (122) extending downward from both ends of the base portion (121), and a pair of fixed rail portions (125) protruding from the inner surface of each of the pair of side covers (122) to guide movement of the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0255] Each of the above pair of fixed rail parts (125) may include a plurality of guide rails (1251) arranged to be spaced apart from each other and extending in the same direction.

[0256] The photocatalytic filter (110, 410) may include a filter member (111) and a filter frame (112, 412) provided to support the filter member (111). The filter frame (112, 412) may include a pair of movable rail parts (112e) formed to protrude from both sides of the filter frame (112, 412) so as to be slidably supported on the pair of fixed rail parts (125) when the photocatalytic filter (110, 410) is mounted on the filter case (120, 420).

[0257] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10) provided with an inlet (13a) and an outlet (13b), a first filter (40) provided to filter air flowing into the housing (10) through the inlet (13a), a control box (200) disposed below the first filter (40), a control box cover (300) disposed between the first filter and the control box (200) to cover the upper side of the control box (200), and having an elastic member (330) provided on the inside to press the first filter upward, a filter case (120, 420) disposed above the first filter (40), and a second filter (110, 410) that can be detachably mounted by sliding on the filter case (120, 420) to deodorize air that has passed through the first filter (40).

[0258] The above second filter (110, 410) may be a photocatalytic filter (110, 410). The air conditioner (1) may further include a light source device (130) coupled to the upper side of the filter case (120, 420).

[0259] According to the present disclosure, the photocatalytic filter can be detachably mounted in a sliding manner in the filter case. Furthermore, since the photocatalytic filter is arranged symmetrically with respect to the vertical direction, it can be mounted in the filter case regardless of the vertical direction. This makes it easier to mount or remove the photocatalytic filter in or from the filter case.

[0260] According to the present disclosure, the control box cover can simultaneously perform the functions of covering the control box and pressurizing the dust collector upward. Accordingly, a user can access the control box by simply detaching the blower panel and air filter from the air conditioner. In other words, accessibility to the control box can be improved.

[0261] 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.

[0262] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. Housing; A blower for circulating air into or out of the housing; A photocatalytic filter provided to deodorize air flowing through the blower; A filter case in which the photocatalytic filter can be detachably mounted, the filter case including a fixed rail portion for guiding the movement of the photocatalytic filter while the photocatalytic filter is mounted or detached from the filter case; and Including a light source device coupled to one side of the above filter case, The above filter case, An air conditioner including a plurality of through holes provided on one side of the filter case so that light irradiated by the light source device toward the photocatalytic filter passes through the filter case when the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case and is open toward the light source device and the photocatalytic filter.

2. In paragraph 1, The above housing includes a frame body and a plurality of ventilation panels provided on the outside of the frame body, The above filter case, An air conditioner including a filter inlet opening toward the outside of the frame body so that the photocatalytic filter can be inserted when one of the plurality of blower panels is separated.

3. In paragraph 1, The above light source device is coupled to the upper side of the filter case, An air conditioner in which the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case, the photocatalytic filter is disposed on the lower side of the light source device.

4. In paragraph 3, The above photocatalytic filter, An air conditioner that can be mounted on the filter case by sliding in a direction intersecting the direction in which the filter case and the light source device are arranged.

5. In paragraph 3, The above filter case, A base part on which the light source device is mounted on the upper surface and in which the plurality of through holes are provided; and When the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case, a pair of side covers extending downward from both ends of the base portion to cover both sides of the photocatalytic filter are included. An air conditioner including a pair of fixed rail portions protruding from the inner surface of each of the pair of side covers to guide movement of the photocatalytic filter when the photocatalytic filter is mounted in the filter case.

6. In paragraph 5, The above photocatalytic filter, Absence of filter; and Including a filter frame provided to support the above filter member, The above filter frame is, An air conditioner including a pair of movable rail portions formed by protruding from both sides of the filter frame so as to be slidably supported by the pair of fixed rail portions when the photocatalytic filter is mounted in the filter case.

7. In paragraph 6, Each of the above pair of fixed rail parts, An air conditioner comprising a plurality of guide rails arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other and extending in the same direction.

8. In paragraph 5, The above filter case, When the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case, it further includes a filter inlet that is opened to allow the photocatalytic filter to be inserted. Each of the above plurality of guide rails, When the photocatalytic filter is mounted on the filter case, a filter mounting portion provided so that one of the pair of movable rail portions is mounted, the filter mounting portion extending in the same direction as the direction in which the plurality of guide rails are arranged; and An air conditioner comprising an inclined portion extending downwardly from one end of the filter mounting portion positioned adjacent to the filter inlet portion.

9. In paragraph 6, The above filter case, An air conditioner further comprising a pair of fixing parts provided on each of the pair of side covers to fix the photocatalytic filter when the photocatalytic filter is mounted in the filter case.

10. In paragraph 9, The above pair of fixing parts is a pair of first fixing parts, The above filter frame is, An air conditioner further comprising a pair of second fixing parts provided at positions corresponding to the positions of each of the pair of first fixing parts so as to fix the photocatalytic filter by engaging with each of the pair of first fixing parts when the photocatalytic filter is mounted in the filter case.

11. In paragraph 10, Each of the above pair of first fixing parts is a hook having a hook projection, one portion of which protrudes toward the inside of the filter case, An air conditioner in which each of the pair of second fixed parts is an insertion groove formed by being sunken in the outer surface of each of the pair of movable rail parts so that the hook projection is inserted when the photocatalytic filter is mounted in the filter case.

12. In paragraph 6, The filter frame includes a first side on which one side of the filter member is provided and a second side on the opposite side of the first side on which the other side of the filter member is provided, The above photocatalytic filter, An air conditioner mountable to the filter case such that the first side of the filter frame faces the light source device or the second side of the filter frame faces the light source device.

13. In paragraph 1, A control box that houses a printed circuit board; A dust collector placed between the filter case and the control box; and Further comprising a control box cover disposed between the control box and the dust collector to cover the upper side of the control box; The above control box cover, A cover plate in contact with the lower surface of the above dust collector; A cover frame coupled to the lower side of the cover plate to support the cover plate; and An air conditioner comprising an elastic member disposed between the cover plate and the cover frame to press upward the cover plate and the dust collector in contact with the cover plate.

14. In paragraph 13, The above cover plate, a base plate in contact with the elastic member so as to be pressed upward by the elastic member; and including a protrusion protruding upward from the base plate, The above dust collector, An air conditioner including a recessed portion formed by being sunken into the lower surface of the dust collector to correspond to the protrusion of the cover plate.

15. In paragraph 14, The above cover plate, An air conditioner further comprising an inclined projection protruding from one end of the above-mentioned projection and having an inclined surface inclined with respect to the above-mentioned projection.

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