Air conditioner

Abstract

This air conditioner comprises: a housing; a suction port provided in the housing; a blowing fan provided to suck air through the suction port; a discharge port provided to discharge air to a first space communicating with the suction port; an exhaust port provided to discharge air to a second space partitioned from the first space; a fan case disposed inside the housing and accommodating the blowing fan; a fan case motor for generating a rotational force to rotate the fan case; and a gear provided to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor. The fan case comprises a fan case gear provided on an outer surface of the fan case and engaged with the gear to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor, and is provided to communicate with the discharge port or the exhaust port as the fan case rotates.

Description

air conditioner

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

[0002] In general, an air conditioner is a device that uses a refrigeration cycle to control temperature, humidity, airflow, etc. suitable for human activities, while removing dust, etc. in the air.

[0003] Specifically, the air conditioner is equipped with a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the intake air, a blower fan that circulates the air, a fan motor that drives the blower fan, etc., and can cool or heat a room.

[0004] In the case of an air conditioner used in a bathroom, in addition to the above function, it may include a function of exhausting humid air inside the bathroom to the outside of the bathroom.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner comprising both a heating and cooling function and an exhaust function.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner having a relatively small size.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner capable of reducing pressure loss during exhaust.

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

[0009] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing, an intake port provided in the housing, a blower fan provided to intake air through the intake port, an exhaust port provided to discharge air into a first space communicating with the intake port, an exhaust port provided to discharge air into a second space partitioned from the first space, a fan case disposed inside the housing and accommodating the blower fan, a fan case motor generating rotational force to rotate the fan case, and a gear provided to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor. The fan case includes a fan case gear provided on an outer surface of the fan case and meshed with the gear to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor, and is provided to communicate with the exhaust port or the exhaust port as the fan case rotates.

[0010] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing, an intake port provided in the housing, a blower fan provided to suck air through the intake port, an exhaust port provided to discharge air into a first space communicating with the intake port, an exhaust port provided to discharge air into a second space partitioned from the first space, a fan case disposed inside the housing and accommodating the blower fan, and a fan case motor that generates rotational force to rotate the fan case. The fan case includes a bell mouth provided to guide air sucked through the intake port into the fan case, and a power transmission unit provided on an outer surface of the bell mouth, the power transmission unit transmitting rotational force of the fan case motor to the bell mouth so that the fan case rotates, and the fan case is provided to communicate with the exhaust port or the exhaust port as the fan case rotates.

[0011] An air conditioner according to the invention comprises a housing, an intake port provided in the housing, a plurality of openings provided to discharge air sucked in through the intake port, a blower fan provided to suck in air through the intake port or discharge air through the plurality of openings, and a fan case accommodating the blower fan, a fan case motor that generates rotational force to rotate the fan case, and a gear provided to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor. The fan case includes a bell mouth provided to guide air sucked in through the intake port into the fan case, and a fan case gear provided on an outer surface of the bell mouth and meshed with the gear to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor, and is provided to selectively communicate with any one of the plurality of openings as the fan case rotates.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing a part of the configuration of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the fan case of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 3 in a rotated state.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and peripheral configuration of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and peripheral configuration of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the damper of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 11 in rotation.

[0024] Fig. 13 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and peripheral configuration of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a damper of the air conditioner shown in Fig. 11.

[0026] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 17 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the damper of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 16 in rotation.

[0029] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing a damper of the air conditioner shown in Fig. 16.

[0030] 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.

[0031] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0035] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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 join and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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 the wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for the cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include non-volatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] Meanwhile, the terms “front / rear direction,” “left / right direction,” “upper side,” “lower side,” etc. used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0092] For example, the X direction can be defined as the forward-backward direction. For example, the Y direction can be defined as the sideways direction. For example, the Z direction can be defined as the up-down direction. For example, the -X direction can be defined as the forward direction and the +X direction can be defined as the back direction. For example, the +Y direction can be defined as the left direction and the -Y direction can be defined as the right direction. For example, the +Z direction can be defined as the up direction and the -Z direction can be defined as the down direction.

[0093] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0094] For convenience of explanation, the following description will be given using the indoor unit of a ceiling-mounted air conditioner as an example. However, it should be understood that the contents of the present disclosure may also be applied to indoor units of other types of air conditioners, such as stand-alone air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioners, and integrated air conditioners.

[0095] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded drawing illustrating a part of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a rotated fan case of the air conditioner illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and a peripheral component of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and a peripheral component of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 7, the air conditioner (1) may include a housing (10). Various components for driving the air conditioner (1) may be accommodated inside the housing (10). The housing (10) may form the overall appearance of the air conditioner (1). For example, the housing (10) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. A flow path may be provided inside the housing (10) to allow air to flow.

[0097] The air conditioner (1) may include an intake port (20). The intake port (20) may be provided in the housing (10). The intake port (20) may be provided to intake air. The intake port (20) may be in communication with a first space in which the air conditioner (1) is installed. Through this configuration, the intake port (20) may be provided to intake air from the first space. In this case, the first space may mean an indoor space.

[0098] The air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of openings (30) provided to discharge air. The plurality of openings (30) may be provided to discharge air sucked through the intake port (20).

[0099] The plurality of openings (30) may include a discharge port (31). The discharge port (31) may be provided in the housing (10). The discharge port (31) may be provided to discharge air. The discharge port (31) may be in communication with a first space in which the air conditioner (1) is installed. Through this configuration, the discharge port (31) may be provided to discharge air into the first space.

[0100] The plurality of openings (30) may include exhaust ports (32). The exhaust ports (32) may be provided in the housing (10). Specifically, the exhaust ports (32) may be provided at the upper portion (+Z direction) of the case (11). The exhaust ports (32) may be provided to discharge air. The exhaust ports (32) may be in communication with a second space that is partitioned from the first space. The exhaust ports (32) may be provided to discharge air into the second space. In this case, the second space may mean an outdoor space.

[0101] The exhaust port (32) may include a first exhaust port (32a) and a second exhaust port (32b). Each of the first exhaust port (32a) and the second exhaust port (32b) may have all of the configurations and features of the exhaust port (32) described in this document.

[0102] The first exhaust port (32a) may be arranged on one side of the housing (10), and the second exhaust port (32b) may be arranged on the other side of the housing (10). Specifically, the first exhaust port (32a) may be arranged on the right side (-Y direction) of the housing (10), and the second exhaust port (32b) may be arranged on the left side (+Y direction) of the housing (10).

[0103] The housing (10) may include a case (11). A receiving space may be formed inside the case (11). The lower surface of the case (11) may be open. For example, the case (11) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open lower surface.

[0104] The case (11) can be installed on the ceiling (not shown) of the first space. The case (11) can be hung or embedded in the ceiling (not shown) of the first space.

[0105] An exhaust port (32) may be provided in the case (11). Specifically, the exhaust port (32) may be provided by opening in a side wall of the case (11). For example, the exhaust port (32) may be provided by opening in a rear side wall (+X direction) of the case (11).

[0106] The housing (10) may include a panel (12). The panel (12) may be detachably coupled to the lower surface of the case (11). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the case (11) and the panel (12) may be provided as a single unit. At least a portion of the panel (12) may be exposed to the first space.

[0107] A suction port (20) may be provided on the panel (12). The suction port (20) may be provided by opening on one side of the panel (12). The suction port (20) may extend approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0108] A discharge port (31) may be provided on the panel (12). The discharge port (31) may be provided to open on the other side of the panel (12). Specifically, the discharge port (31) may be provided closer to the exhaust port (32) than to the intake port (20). The discharge port (31) may extend approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0109] Both the intake port (20) and the exhaust port (31) may be provided as openings in the panel (12). Therefore, the direction in which the intake port (20) is opened may be the same as the direction in which the exhaust port (31) is opened. The exhaust port (32) may be provided as openings in the side wall of the case (11). Therefore, the direction in which the exhaust port (32) is opened may perpendicularly intersect with the direction in which the intake port (20) is opened or the direction in which the exhaust port (31) is opened.

[0110] The panel (12) may include a suction panel (12a). The suction panel (12a) may be positioned below the suction port (20). The suction panel (12a) may be provided to guide air sucked through the suction port (20). The suction panel (12a) may extend approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0111] The panel (12) may include a discharge blade (12b). The discharge blade (12b) may be arranged below the discharge port (31). The discharge blade (12b) may be arranged to open or close the discharge port (31). When the discharge blade (12b) opens the discharge port (31), the discharge blade (12b) may be arranged to guide air discharged through the discharge port (31). The discharge blade (12b) may extend approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0112] The panel (12) may include a mid panel (12c). The mid panel (12c) may be provided between the suction panel (12a) and the discharge blade (12b). The mid panel (12c) may extend approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0113] The panel (12) may include a first guide portion (12d). The first guide portion (12d) may be provided to guide air discharged through the discharge port (31). The first guide portion (12d) may have a curved shape to prevent loss of flow of discharged air.

[0114] The panel (12) may include a second guide portion (12e). The second guide portion (12e) may be provided to guide air discharged through the discharge port (31) together with the first guide portion (12d). The second guide portion (12e) may have a curved shape to prevent flow loss of the discharged air. The second guide portion (12e) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first guide portion (12d) in the rearward direction (+X direction).

[0115] The air conditioner (1) may include an exhaust pipe (40). The exhaust pipe (40) may be connected to a side wall of the case (11).

[0116] One end of the exhaust pipe (40) may be connected to the exhaust port (32), and the other end of the exhaust pipe (40) may be connected to the second space. The exhaust pipe (40) may be provided to guide air discharged through the exhaust port (32) to the second space. In other words, the exhaust pipe (40) may be provided to guide air discharged through the first exhaust port (32a) and air discharged through the second exhaust port (32b) to the second space.

[0117] The air conditioner (1) may include a heat exchanger (50). The heat exchanger (50) may be provided to exchange heat between air sucked in through the intake port (20) and refrigerant. The heat exchanger (50) may cool or heat the air sucked in through the intake port (20).

[0118] The heat exchanger (50) can be accommodated inside the housing (10). The heat exchanger (50) can be placed between the intake port (20) and the discharge port (31).

[0119] For example, the heat exchanger (50) may include tubes through which refrigerant flows. For example, the heat exchanger (50) may include heat exchange fins in contact with the tubes to increase the heat transfer area.

[0120] The air conditioner (1) may include a drain tray (60). The drain tray (60) may be placed under the heat exchanger (50). The drain tray (60) may be provided to collect condensate generated in the heat exchanger (50). The condensate collected in the drain tray (60) may be discharged to the outside through a drain hose (not shown) or the like. The drain tray (60) may include an insulating material for insulating the air being heat-exchanged. The drain tray (60) may be covered by a mid panel (12c).

[0121] The air conditioner (1) may include a blower fan (70). The blower fan (70) may generate blowing force inside the housing (10). The blower fan (70) may force air to flow. In this case, the blower fan (70) may be arranged to rotate around the Y-axis.

[0122] The blower fan (70) may be provided to suck in air through an inlet (21). The blower fan (70) may be provided to discharge air through a plurality of openings (30). That is, the blower fan (70) may be provided to discharge air through an outlet (31) or an exhaust port (32).

[0123] The blower fan (70) may be placed inside the housing (10). In the drawing, the blower fan (70) is depicted as being provided upstream of the heat exchanger (50) in the air flow direction, but this is not limited thereto. The blower fan (70) may also be provided downstream of the heat exchanger (50) in the air flow direction.

[0124] For example, the blower fan (70) may be an axial fan or a diffusion fan. However, the type of the blower fan (70) is not limited thereto, and the blower fan (70) is sufficient as long as it has a configuration that allows air flowing in from the outside of the housing (10) to be discharged to the outside of the housing (10). For example, the blower fan (70) may be a cross fan, a turbo fan, or a sirocco fan.

[0125] The blower fan (70) may include a first blower fan (70a) and a second blower fan (70b). Each of the first blower fan (70a) and the second blower fan (70b) may have all of the configurations and features of the blower fan (70) described in this document.

[0126] The first blower fan (70a) may be arranged to discharge air through the first exhaust port (32a). The second blower fan (70b) may be arranged to discharge air through the second exhaust port (32b). The first blower fan (70a) and the second blower fan (70b) may be arranged approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction). That is, the second blower fan (70b) may be arranged on one side of the first blower fan (70a).

[0127] The air conditioner (1) may include a fan driving unit (80). The fan driving unit (80) may be configured to drive a blower fan (70). In other words, the fan driving unit (80) may be configured to drive a first blower fan (70a) and a second blower fan (70b), respectively. The fan driving unit (80) may be arranged inside the housing (10).

[0128] The fan driving unit (80) may include a fan motor (81). The fan motor (81) may generate rotational force to drive the blower fan (70). The fan motor (81) may be placed inside the housing (10). Specifically, the fan motor (81) may be placed between the first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b) to be described later.

[0129] Although the drawing shows one fan motor (81), the number of fan motors (81) is not limited thereto. For example, the number of fan motors (81) may correspond to the number of blower fans (70).

[0130] The fan drive unit (80) may include a fan motor support unit (82). The fan motor support unit (82) may be provided to support a fan motor (81). The fan motor (81) may be accommodated inside the fan motor support unit (82).

[0131] The fan drive unit (80) may include a fan motor shaft (83). The fan motor shaft (83) may connect the fan motor (81) and the blower fan (70). Through this configuration, the fan motor shaft (83) may be arranged to transmit the rotational power of the fan motor (81) to the blower fan (70).

[0132] The fan motor shaft (83) may include a first fan motor shaft (83a) and a second fan motor shaft (83b). Each of the first fan motor shaft (83a) and the second fan motor shaft (83b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan motor shaft (83) described in this document.

[0133] The first fan motor shaft (83a) can connect the fan motor (81) and the first blower fan (70a). Through this configuration, the rotational power of the fan motor (81) can be transmitted to the first blower fan (70a). The second fan motor shaft (83b) can connect the fan motor (81) and the second blower fan (70b). Through this configuration, the rotational power of the fan motor (81) can be transmitted to the second blower fan (70b).

[0134] The air conditioner (1) may include a fan case (100). The fan case (100) may be placed inside the housing (10). The fan case (100) may accommodate a blower fan (70).

[0135] The fan case (100) may include a first fan case (100a) and a second fan case (100b). Each of the first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case (100) described in this document.

[0136] The first fan case (100a) can accommodate the first blower fan (70a). The second fan case (100b) can accommodate the second blower fan (70b). The first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b) can be arranged approximately in the left-right direction (Y direction). That is, the second fan case (100b) can be arranged on one side of the first fan case (100a).

[0137] The air conditioner (1) may include a fan case motor (200). The fan case motor (200) may generate rotational force to rotate the fan case (100). By transmitting the rotational force of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100), the fan case (100) may rotate within the housing (10). At this time, the fan case (100) may rotate around the Y-axis.

[0138] The fan case motor (200) may include a first fan case motor (200a) and a second fan case motor (200b). Each of the first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case motor (200) described in this document.

[0139] The first fan case motor (200a) can generate rotational force to rotate the first fan case (100a). The second fan case motor (200b) can generate rotational force to rotate the second fan case (100b). In the drawing, the first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) are illustrated as separate configurations, but are not limited thereto. For example, a single fan case motor (200) may generate rotational force for rotating each of the first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b).

[0140] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the fan case (100) may be arranged to selectively communicate with any one of a plurality of openings (30) as it rotates. In other words, the fan case (100) may be arranged to communicate with the discharge port (31) or the exhaust port (32) as it rotates.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust port (31), the fan case (100) can rotate by a predetermined angle in a counterclockwise direction (based on FIGS. 3 and 4). When the fan case (100) is rotated by 90 degrees, the fan case (100) can be in communication with the exhaust port (32). However, the angle at which the fan case (100) must be rotated to be in communication with the exhaust port (32) is not limited to 90 degrees.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust port (32), the fan case (100) can rotate by a predetermined angle in a clockwise direction (based on FIGS. 3 and 4). When the fan case (100) is rotated by 90 degrees, the fan case (100) can be in communication with the exhaust port (31). However, the angle at which the fan case (100) must be rotated to be in communication with the exhaust port (31) is not limited to 90 degrees.

[0143] Referring to Fig. 3, when the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling or heating function, the fan case (100) can be connected to the discharge port (31). When the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling or heating function, the discharge blade (12b) can open the discharge port (31). When the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling or heating function, the damper (700) to be described later can close the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, when the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling or heating function, the air conditioner (1) can exchange heat with the heat exchanger (50) and discharge the air sucked in from the suction port (20) into the first space. That is, when the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling or heating function, the air conditioner (1) can discharge the heat-exchanged air into the room.

[0144] Referring to Fig. 4, when the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, the fan case (100) can be connected to the exhaust port (32). When the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, the damper (700) to be described later can open the exhaust port (32). When the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, the discharge blade (12b) can close the discharge port (31). Through this configuration, when the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, the air conditioner (1) can discharge the air sucked from the suction port (20) into the second space. That is, when the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, the air conditioner (1) can discharge indoor air to the outdoors. When the air conditioner (1) performs the exhaust function, heat exchange between the heat exchanger (50) and the air can be omitted.

[0145] The first fan case (100a) may be provided so as to be in communication with the first exhaust port (32a). In other words, the first exhaust port (32a) may be provided so as to be in communication with the first fan case (100a). As the first fan case (100a) rotates, it may be in communication with the discharge port (31) or with the first exhaust port (32a).

[0146] The second fan case (100b) may be provided so as to be in communication with the first exhaust port (32a). In other words, the first exhaust port (32a) may be provided so as to be in communication with the first fan case (100b). As the second fan case (100b) rotates, it may be in communication with the discharge port (31) or with the second exhaust port (32b).

[0147] The first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b) may be arranged to rotate independently of each other. In other words, the direction in which the fan case outlet (130) of the first fan case (100a) opens may be different from the direction in which the fan case outlet (130) of the first fan case (100b) opens. Through this configuration, the air conditioner (1) can perform cooling and heating functions and exhaust functions simultaneously. For example, when the first fan case (100a) is in communication with the discharge port (31), the second fan case (100b) can be in communication with the second exhaust port (32b). That is, when the first fan case (100a) performs the cooling and heating function, the second fan case (100b) can perform the exhaust function. For example, when the first fan case (100a) is connected to the second exhaust port (32b), the second fan case (100b) can be connected to the discharge port (31). That is, when the first fan case (100a) performs the exhaust function, the second fan case (100b) can perform the cooling and heating function.

[0148] According to the concept of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling and heating function, the air blown by the blower fan (70) can be discharged into a first space. When the air conditioner (1) performs an exhaust function, the air blown by the blower fan (70) can be discharged into a second space. When the air conditioner (1) performs a cooling and heating function and an exhaust function at the same time, the air blown by the blower fan (70) can be discharged into the first space and the second space at the same time. In other words, the air conditioner (1) can perform both the cooling and heating function and the exhaust function with only the blower fan (70), and does not require a separate fan for performing the exhaust function.

[0149] The fan case (100) may include a fan case inlet (110). The fan case inlet (110) may be provided on a side of the fan case (100). The fan case inlet (110) may be provided to be open so that air sucked through the intake port (20) may be introduced into the interior of the fan case (100).

[0150] The fan case inlet (110) may have an approximately circular shape. However, the shape of the fan case inlet (110) is not limited thereto.

[0151] The fan case inlet (110) may include a first fan case inlet (110a) and a second fan case inlet (110b). Each of the first fan case inlet (110a) and the second fan case inlet (110b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case inlet (110) described in this document.

[0152] The first fan case inlet (110a) may be provided on one side of the fan case (100). The second fan case inlet (110b) may be provided on the other side of the fan case (100).

[0153] Although two fan case inlets (110a, 110b) are shown in the drawing, the number of fan case inlets (110) is not limited thereto. For example, the fan case inlets (110) may be provided on only one side of the fan case (100).

[0154] The fan case (100) may include a bell mouth (120). The bell mouth (120) may be provided to protrude along the edge of the fan case inlet (110). Accordingly, the bell mouth (120) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the fan case inlet (110). For example, the bell mouth (120) may have a shape of a circular ring.

[0155] The inner diameter of the bell mouth (120) may become smaller as it goes toward the inside of the fan case (100). Through this configuration, the bell mouth (120) may be arranged to guide air sucked through the intake port (20) into the inside of the fan case (100).

[0156] The bell mouse (120) may include a first bell mouse (120a) and a second bell mouse (120b). Each of the first bell mouse (120a) and the second bell mouse (120b) may have all of the configurations and features of the bell mouse (120) described in this document.

[0157] The first bell mouth (120a) may be provided on one side of the fan case (100). The first bell mouth (120a) may be provided so as to protrude along the edge of the first fan case inlet (110a). The second bell mouth (120b) may be provided on the other side of the fan case (100). The second bell mouth (120b) may be provided so as to protrude along the edge of the second fan case inlet (110b).

[0158] The fan case (100) may include a fan case outlet (130). The fan case outlet (130) may be provided to allow air introduced through the fan case inlet (110) to be discharged. In other words, the fan case outlet (130) may be provided to allow air blown by the blower fan (70) to be discharged.

[0159] The fan case outlet (130) may extend from one side of the fan case (100). The fan case outlet (130) may be opened toward the outside of the fan case (100). The direction in which the fan case outlet (130) is opened may perpendicularly intersect the direction in which the fan case inlet (110) is opened. Through this configuration, the air flowing into the fan case (100) through the fan case inlet (110) may have its flow direction vertically changed inside the fan case (100) and may flow out through the fan case outlet (130).

[0160] One end of the fan case outlet (130) may be formed in an arc shape. Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) rotates within the housing (10), interference may not occur between the fan case outlet (130) and the connecting portions (610, 620) described later.

[0161] The fan case outlet (130) may include a first fan case outlet (130a) and a second fan case outlet (130b). Each of the first fan case outlet (130a) and the second fan case outlet (130b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case outlet (130) described in this document.

[0162] The first fan case outlet (130a) may be provided to allow air blown by the first blower fan (70a) to flow out. The second fan case outlet (130b) may be provided to allow air blown by the second blower fan (70b) to flow out.

[0163] The fan case (100) may include a power transmission unit (140). The power transmission unit (140) may transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100) so that the fan case (100) rotates.

[0164] The power transmission unit (140) is satisfactory if it has a configuration that can transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100). For example, the power transmission unit (140) may be provided in the form of a fan case gear (141). In this case, the air conditioner (1) may include a plurality of gears (310, 320) to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100). For example, the power transmission unit (140) may be provided in the form of a pulley (not shown). In this case, the air conditioner (1) may include a belt (not shown) coupled to the pulley (not shown) to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100).

[0165] The power transmission unit (140) may be provided on the outer surface of the fan case (100). For example, the power transmission unit (140) may be provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth (120). However, the position of the power transmission unit (140) is not limited thereto, and any position that can smoothly transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case (100) is satisfactory.

[0166] Below, an embodiment in which the power transmission unit (140) is provided in the form of a fan case gear (141) is described.

[0167] The fan case (100) may include a fan case gear (141). The fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of the fan case (100). For example, the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth (120). For example, the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of either the first bell mouth (120a) or the second bell mouth (120b). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of each of the first bell mouth (120a) and the second bell mouth (120b). This will be described in detail later.

[0168] The air conditioner (1) may include a power transmission gear (300). The power transmission gear (300) may be provided to receive the rotational power of the fan case motor (200). The power transmission gear (300) may be meshed with the fan case gear (141) to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case gear (141).

[0169] The power transmission gear (300) may include a plurality of gears. For example, it may include a first gear (310) and a second gear (320). For example, the first gear (310) may be arranged to receive the rotational power of the fan case motor (200). For example, the second gear (320) may mesh with the fan case gear (141) to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the fan case gear (141). This document describes an embodiment in which the power transmission gear (300) includes the first gear (310) and the second gear (320). However, the number of gears is not limited thereto.

[0170] The power transmission gear (300) may include a first power transmission gear (300a) and a second power transmission gear (300b). Each of the first power transmission gear (300a) and the second power transmission gear (300b) may have all of the configurations and features of the power transmission gear (300) described in this document.

[0171] The first power transmission gear (300a) may be provided to receive the rotational power of the first fan case motor (200a). The second power transmission gear (300b) may be provided to receive the rotational power of the second fan case motor (200b).

[0172] The air conditioner (1) may include a fan case motor shaft (400). The fan case motor shaft (400) may be arranged to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) to the power transmission gear (300). One end of the fan case motor shaft (400) may be coupled to the fan case motor (200). The other end of the fan case motor shaft (400) may be coupled to the first gear (310). Through this configuration, the rotational power of the fan case motor (200) may be transmitted to the first gear (310).

[0173] The fan case motor shaft (400) may include a first fan case motor shaft (400a) and a second fan case motor shaft (400b). Each of the first fan case motor shaft (400a) and the second fan case motor shaft (400b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case motor shaft (400) described in this document.

[0174] The first fan case motor shaft (400a) may be provided to transmit the rotational power of the first fan case motor (200a) to the first power transmission gear (300a). The second fan case motor shaft (400b) may be provided to transmit the rotational power of the second fan case motor (200b) to the second power transmission gear (300b).

[0175] The air conditioner (1) may include a recessed portion (500). The recessed portion (500) may be recessed from the inner surface of the housing (10) toward the outer surface of the housing (10). Through this configuration, interference between the fan case (100) and the inner surface of the housing (10) can be prevented when the fan case (100) rotates.

[0176] The recessed portion (500) may include a first recessed portion (510) and a second recessed portion (520).

[0177] The first recessed portion (510) may be recessed from the inner surface of the housing (10) toward the outer surface of the housing (10). Specifically, the first recessed portion (510) may be recessed from the inner rear surface (+X direction) of the housing (10) toward the rear surface (+X direction) of the housing (10). Through this configuration, interference between the fan case outlet (130) and the inner surface of the housing (10) can be prevented when the fan case (100) rotates.

[0178] The second recessed portion (520) may be recessed from the inner surface of the housing (10) toward the outer surface of the housing (10). Specifically, the second recessed portion (520) may be recessed from the inner upper surface (+Z direction) of the housing (10) toward the upper surface (+Z direction) of the housing (10). Through this configuration, interference between the fan case outlet (130) and the inner surface of the housing (10) can be prevented when the fan case (100) rotates.

[0179] The air conditioner (1) may include a first connecting portion (610). The first connecting portion (610) may be connected to a discharge port (31). One end of the first connecting portion (610) may be in communication with the discharge port (31).

[0180] When the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), the first connecting portion (610) can connect the fan case outlet (130) and the outlet (31). When the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), one end of the first connecting portion (610) can be connected to the outlet (31), and the other end of the first connecting portion (610) can be connected to the fan case outlet (130). Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), the first connecting portion (610) can be arranged to guide air flowing out of the fan case outlet (130) to the outlet (31). In other words, when the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), the first connection part (610) can be provided to guide the air blown by the blower fan (70) to the outlet (31).

[0181] The other end of the first connecting portion (610) may be provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet (130). For example, the other end of the first connecting portion (610) may be provided in a roughly circular arc shape.

[0182] According to the concept of the present disclosure, when the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), air blown by the blower fan (70) can be sequentially discharged into the first space through the fan case outlet (130), the first connection portion (610), and the outlet (31). At this time, the fan case outlet (130), the first connection portion (610), and the outlet (31) can form a sealed flow path. Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), the loss of air flow rate of air discharged into the first space by the blower fan (70) can be minimized.

[0183] The air conditioner (1) may include a second connection portion (620). The second connection portion (620) may be connected to an exhaust port (32). One end of the second connection portion (620) may be in communication with the exhaust port (32).

[0184] When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the second connection portion (620) can connect the fan case outlet (130) and the exhaust port (32). When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), one end of the second connection portion (620) can be connected to the exhaust port (32), and the other end of the second connection portion (620) can be connected to the fan case outlet (130). Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the second connection portion (620) can be arranged to guide air flowing out of the fan case outlet (130) to the exhaust port (32). In other words, when the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the second connection part (620) can be provided to guide the air blown by the blower fan (70) to the exhaust port (32).

[0185] The other end of the second connecting portion (620) may be provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet (130). For example, the other end of the second connecting portion (620) may be provided in a roughly circular arc shape.

[0186] According to the concept of the present disclosure, when the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), air blown by the blower fan (70) can be discharged into the second space sequentially through the fan case outlet (130), the second connection portion (620), and the exhaust port (32). At this time, the fan case outlet (130), the second connection portion (620), and the exhaust port (32) can form a sealed flow path. Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the loss of air flow rate of air discharged into the second space by the blower fan (70) can be minimized.

[0187] The air conditioner (1) may include a damper (700). The damper (700) may be provided to open or close the exhaust port (32). Specifically, the damper (700) may be provided to open or close the exhaust port (32) by rotating around one end of the damper (700). For example, the damper (700) may be provided to open or close the exhaust port (32) by rotating around a hinge axis (710) provided at one end of the damper (700).

[0188] When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (31), the damper (700) can close the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, it is possible to prevent loss of flow rate that may occur when air flowing out of the fan case (100) flows to the exhaust port (32).

[0189] When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the damper (700) can open the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, air flowing out from the fan case (100) can flow into the exhaust pipe (40).

[0190] The damper (700) may include a first damper (700a) and a second damper (700b). Each of the first damper (700a) and the second damper (700b) may have all of the configurations and features of the damper (700) described in this document.

[0191] The first damper (700a) may be configured to open or close the first exhaust port (32a). The second damper (700b) may be configured to open or close the second exhaust port (32b).

[0192] The first damper (700a) may be configured to open or close the first exhaust port (32a) independently of whether the second damper (700b) opens or closes the second exhaust port (32b). In other words, the second damper (700b) may be configured to open or close the second exhaust port (32b) independently of whether the first damper (700a) opens or closes the first exhaust port (32a). For example, when the first damper (700a) opens the first exhaust port (32a), the second damper (700b) may close the second exhaust port (32b). For example, when the first damper (700a) closes the first exhaust port (32a), the second damper (700b) may open the second exhaust port (32b).

[0193] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of either the first bell mouth (120a) or the second bell mouth (120b). For example, the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of the first bell mouth (120a) (see FIG. 7). For example, the fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of the second bell mouth (120b) (see FIG. 8).

[0195] Referring to FIG. 9, the fan case gear (141) may include a first fan case gear (141a) and a second fan case gear (141b). Each of the first fan case gear (141a) and the second fan case gear (141b) may have all of the configurations and features of the fan case gear (141) described in this document.

[0196] The first fan case gear (141a) may be provided on the outer circumference of the first bell mouth (120a). The second fan case gear (141b) may be provided on the outer circumference of the second bell mouth (120b). At this time, the first fan case gear (141a) and the second fan case gear (141b) may be provided to rotate in the same direction. Through this configuration, the fan case (100) can smoothly rotate in one direction.

[0197] Hereinafter, the bell mouse (120) provided on one side of the first fan case (100a) is referred to as the first bell mouse (120a), and the bell mouse (120) provided on the other side of the first fan case (100a) is referred to as the second bell mouse (120b). Hereinafter, the bell mouse (120) provided on one side of the second fan case (100b) is referred to as the third bell mouse (120c), and the bell mouse (120) provided on the other side of the second fan case (100b) is referred to as the fourth bell mouse (120d). At this time, the second bell mouse (120b) and the third bell mouse (120c) may be arranged to face each other.

[0198] Hereinafter, the fan case gear (141) provided on the outer circumference of the first bell mouth (120a) is referred to as the first fan case gear (141a), and the fan case gear (141) provided on the outer circumference of the second bell mouth (120b) is referred to as the second fan case gear (141b). Hereinafter, the fan case gear (141) provided on the outer circumference of the third bell mouth (120c) is referred to as the third fan case gear (141c), and the fan case gear (141) provided on the outer circumference of the fourth bell mouth (120d) is referred to as the fourth fan case gear (141d). However, each of the four fan case gears (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) may be omitted depending on the embodiment.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 7, a second fan case gear (141b) may be provided on the outer circumference of the second bell mouth (120b), and a third fan case gear (141c) may be provided on the outer circumference of the third bell mouth (120c). The first fan case gear (141a) and the fourth fan case gear (141d) may be omitted. The first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) may be arranged between the first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b), respectively. Specifically, the first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) may be arranged between the fan drive unit (80) and the inner surface of the housing (10), respectively.

[0200] Referring to Fig. 8, a first fan case gear (141a) may be provided on an outer circumference of a first bell mouth (120a), and a fourth fan case gear (141d) may be provided on an outer circumference of a fourth bell mouth (120d). The second fan case gear (141b) and the third fan case gear (141c) may be omitted. The first fan case motor (200a) may be arranged between the first fan case (100a) and one side of the housing (10). Specifically, the first fan case motor (200a) may be arranged between the first fan case (100a) and the right side (-Y direction) of the housing (10). The second fan case motor (200b) may be arranged between the second fan case (100b) and the other side of the housing (10). Specifically, the second fan case motor (200b) can be placed between the second fan case (100b) and the left side (+Y direction) of the housing (10).

[0201] Referring to FIG. 9, a first fan case gear (141a) may be provided on the outer circumference of a first bell mouth (120a), a second fan case gear (141b) may be provided on the outer circumference of a second bell mouth (120b), a third fan case gear (141c) may be provided on the outer circumference of a third bell mouth (120c), and a fourth fan case gear (141d) may be provided on the outer circumference of a fourth bell mouth (120d). Two first fan case motors (200a) may be provided, and the two first fan case motors (200a) may be arranged on each side of the first fan case (100a). The second fan case motor (200b) may be provided in two units, and the two second fan case motors (200b) may be arranged on each side of the first fan case (100b). The arrangement relationship of the first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) illustrated in Fig. 9 is the same as the arrangement relationship of the first fan case motor (200a) and the second fan case motor (200b) illustrated in Figs. 7 and 8, and thus detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0202] Although the drawing only illustrates the case where the first fan case gear (141a) and the fourth fan case gear (141d) are omitted (see FIG. 7), the case where the second fan case gear (141b) and the third fan case gear (141c) are omitted (see FIG. 8), and the case where the omitted fan case gear (141) is not present (see FIG. 9), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, only one of the four fan case gears (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) may be omitted, the first fan case gear (141a) and the third fan case gear (141c) may be omitted together, or the second fan case gear (141b) and the fourth fan case gear (141d) may be omitted together.

[0203] Fig. 10 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a damper of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 11 rotates. Fig. 13 is a drawing illustrating a fan case and peripheral components of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 is a drawing illustrating a damper of the air conditioner illustrated in Fig. 11. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0204] Hereinafter, an air conditioner (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 15. In describing the air conditioner (2), components that are substantially the same as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0205] Unlike the air conditioner (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9, the air conditioner (2) illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 14 may be configured such that the fan case (100) does not rotate but is fixed inside the housing (10). Accordingly, the air conditioner (2) may omit the power transmission unit (140), the fan case motor (200), the power transmission gear (300), the fan case motor shaft (400), the recessed portion (500), and the connecting portions (610, 620).

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 15, the exhaust port (32) may be provided at the lower portion (-Z direction) of the case (11). In other words, each of the first exhaust port (32a) and the second exhaust port (32b) may be provided at the lower portion (-Z direction) of the case (11).

[0207] The fan case (100) may include a fan case fixing member (150). The fan case fixing member (150) may fix the fan case (100) to the inside of the housing (10).

[0208] The fan case fixing part (150) may include a first fan case fixing part (150a) and a second fan case fixing part (150b). The first fan case fixing part (150a) may fix the first fan case (100a) to the inside of the housing (10). The second fan case fixing part (150b) may fix the second fan case (100a) to the inside of the housing (10).

[0209] The fan case outlet (130) may include a first outlet (131) and a second outlet (132). The first outlet (131) may be opened toward the exhaust outlet (31). Through this configuration, the fan case (100) may be in communication with the exhaust outlet (31). The second outlet (132) may be opened toward the exhaust outlet (32). Through this configuration, the fan case (100) may be in communication with the exhaust outlet (32).

[0210] The first outlet (131) and the second outlet (132) may have approximately the same shape. The directions in which the first outlet (131) and the second outlet (132) open may be perpendicular to each other.

[0211] The air conditioner (2) may include a damper (800). The damper (800) may be configured to close at least a portion of the fan case outlet (130). Specifically, the damper (800) may be configured to close the first outlet (131) or the second outlet (132). In other words, the damper (800) may be configured to open or close each of the first outlet (131) and the second outlet (132).

[0212] The damper (800) may be arranged to close the first outlet (131) or the second outlet (132) by rotating around one end of the damper (800). For example, the damper (800) may be arranged to close the first outlet (131) or the second outlet (132) by rotating around a hinge axis (810) provided at one end of the damper (800). Through this configuration, when the damper (800) closes the first outlet (131), the second outlet (132) can be opened, and when the damper (800) closes the second outlet (132), the first outlet (131) can be opened.

[0213] Referring to Fig. 11, when the air conditioner (2) performs a cooling or heating function, the damper (800) can open the first outlet (131) and close the second outlet (132). When the air conditioner (2) performs a cooling or heating function, the fan case (100) can be connected to the outlet (31). Through this configuration, when the air conditioner (2) performs a cooling or heating function, the air conditioner (2) can exchange heat with the air sucked from the intake port (20) and discharge it into the first space. That is, when the air conditioner (2) performs a cooling or heating function, the air conditioner (2) can discharge the heat-exchanged air into the room.

[0214] Referring to Fig. 12, when the air conditioner (2) performs the exhaust function, the damper (800) can close the first outlet (131) and open the second outlet (132). When the air conditioner (2) performs the exhaust function, the fan case (100) can be connected to the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, when the air conditioner (2) performs the exhaust function, the air conditioner (2) can discharge the air sucked from the intake port (20) into the second space. That is, when the air conditioner (2) performs the exhaust function, the air conditioner (2) can discharge indoor air to the outdoors. When the air conditioner (2) performs the exhaust function, heat exchange between the heat exchanger (50) and the air can be omitted.

[0215] The damper (800) may include a first damper (800a) and a second damper (800b). Each of the first damper (800a) and the second damper (800b) may have all of the configurations and features of the damper (800) described in this document.

[0216] The first damper (800a) may be configured to close at least a portion of the first fan case outlet (130a). The second damper (800b) may be configured to close at least a portion of the second fan case outlet (130b). Each of the first damper (800a) and the second damper (800b) may be configured to rotate independently. Through this configuration, the air conditioner (2) can perform cooling and heating functions and exhaust functions simultaneously.

[0217] When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (31), the damper (800) can close the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, it is possible to prevent loss of flow rate caused by air flowing out of the fan case (100) to the exhaust port (32).

[0218] When the fan case (100) is connected to the exhaust port (32), the damper (700) can close the discharge port (31). Through this configuration, loss of flow rate caused by air flowing out of the fan case (100) to the discharge port (31) can be prevented.

[0219] The damper (800) may include a damper body (820). The damper body (820) may have a shape corresponding to the first outlet (131) and the second outlet (132). Through this configuration, the damper body (820) may close the first outlet (131) or close the second outlet (132).

[0220] The damper body (820) may have a flat plate shape. However, the shape of the damper body (820) is not limited thereto.

[0221] The damper (800) may include a guide vane (830). The guide vane (830) may be connected to the damper body (820). Specifically, the guide vane (830) may be connected to the damper body (820) via a rib (840) protruding from the damper body (820).

[0222] The guide vane (830) may have a curved shape. However, the shape of the guide vane (830) is not limited thereto.

[0223] When the damper (800) closes the first outlet (31), the guide vane (830) may be provided to guide air flowing out of the fan case (100) to the exhaust port (32). In other words, when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust port (32), the guide vane (830) may be provided to guide air flowing out of the fan case (100) to the exhaust port (32). Through this configuration, when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust port (32), the flow resistance experienced by the air flowing out of the fan case (100) by the damper (800) can be reduced, and thus, the resulting loss of flow rate can be prevented.

[0224] Fig. 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the damper of the air conditioner shown in Fig. 16 in rotation. Fig. 18 is a drawing showing the damper of the air conditioner shown in Fig. 16.

[0225] Hereinafter, a guide vane (830) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18. In describing the guide vane (830), 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.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, a plurality of guide vanes (830) may be provided. Although a total of three guide vanes (830) are illustrated in the drawings, the number of guide vanes (830) is not limited thereto. Through this configuration, the flow resistance of air flowing out of the fan case (100) by the damper (800) can be further reduced, thereby preventing loss of flow rate.

[0227] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10), an intake port (20) provided in the housing (10), a blower fan (70) provided to suck air through the intake port (20), an exhaust port (31) provided to discharge air into a first space communicating with the intake port (20), an exhaust port (32) provided to discharge air into a second space partitioned from the first space, a fan case (100) disposed inside the housing (10) and accommodating the blower fan (70), a fan case motor (200) that generates rotational force to rotate the fan case (100), and a gear (300) provided to receive the rotational force of the fan case motor (200). The fan case (100) is provided on the outer surface of the fan case (100) and includes a fan case gear (141) that meshes with the gear (300) to transmit the rotational force of the fan case motor (200), and is provided to communicate with the discharge port (31) or the exhaust port (32) as the fan case (100) rotates.

[0228] The fan case (100) may further include a bell mouth (120) provided to guide air sucked through the intake port (20) into the interior of the fan case (100). The fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth (120).

[0229] The bell mouse (120) may include a first bell mouse (120a) provided on one side of the fan case (100) and a second bell mouse (120b) provided on the other side of the fan case (100). The fan case gear (141) may be provided on the outer surface of either the first bell mouse (120a) or the second bell mouse (120b).

[0230] The above fan case (100) may further include a fan case outlet (130) provided to allow air blown by the blower fan (70) to flow out, and one end of the fan case outlet (130) may be provided in an arc shape.

[0231] The above air conditioner (1) may include a recessed portion (500) that is recessed from the inner surface of the housing (10) toward the outer surface of the housing (10) to prevent interference between the fan case outlet (130) and the inner surface of the housing (10) when the fan case (100) rotates.

[0232] The air conditioner (1) may further include a first connecting portion (610) that connects the fan case outlet (130) and the outlet (31) when the fan case (100) is in communication with the outlet (31). The air conditioner (1) may further include a second connecting portion (620) that connects the fan case outlet (130) and the exhaust outlet (32) when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust outlet (32).

[0233] The first connecting portion (610) may have one end communicated with the discharge port (31), and the other end may be provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet (130). The second connecting portion (620) may have one end communicated with the exhaust port (32), and the other end may be provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet (130).

[0234] The above air conditioner (1) may further include a damper (700) configured to open or close the exhaust port (32).

[0235] When the fan case (100) is connected to the outlet (31), the damper (700) can close the exhaust port (32).

[0236] The direction in which the above discharge port (31) is opened and the direction in which the above exhaust port (32) is opened can intersect each other perpendicularly.

[0237] The blower fan (70) may include a first blower fan (70a) and a second blower fan (70b) arranged on one side of the first blower fan (70). The fan case (100) may further include a first fan case (100a) that accommodates the first blower fan (70a) and a second fan case (100b) that accommodates the second blower fan (70b). The exhaust port (32) may include a first exhaust port (32a) that is provided to communicate with the first fan case (100a) and a second exhaust port (32b) that is provided to communicate with the second fan case (100b).

[0238] The first fan case (100a) may be arranged to communicate with the discharge port (31) or the first exhaust port (32a) as it rotates. The second fan case (100b) may be arranged to communicate with the discharge port (31) or the second exhaust port (32b) as it rotates. The first fan case (100a) and the second fan case (100b) may be arranged to rotate independently of each other.

[0239] The above air conditioner (1) may further include a first damper (700a) provided to open or close the first exhaust port (32a) and a second damper (700b) provided to open or close the second exhaust port (32b) independently of the first damper (700a) opening or closing the first exhaust port (32a).

[0240] The above air conditioner (1) may further include an exhaust pipe (40) provided to guide air discharged from the first exhaust port (32a) and air discharged from the second exhaust port (32b) to the second space.

[0241] The bell mouse (120) may include a first bell mouse (120a) provided on one side of the fan case (100) and a second bell mouse (120b) provided on the other side of the fan case (100). The fan case gear (141) may further include a first fan case gear (141a) provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first bell mouse (120) and a second fan case gear (141b) provided on an outer circumferential surface of the second bell mouse (120). The first fan case gear (141a) and the second fan case gear (141b) may be provided to rotate in the same direction.

[0242] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10), an intake port (20) provided in the housing (10), a blower fan (70) provided to suck air through the intake port (20), an exhaust port (31) provided to discharge air into a first space communicating with the intake port (20), an exhaust port (32) provided to discharge air into a second space partitioned from the first space, a fan case (100) disposed inside the housing (10) and housing the blower fan (70), and a fan case motor (200) that generates a rotational force to rotate the fan case (100). The fan case (100) includes a bell mouth (120) provided to guide air sucked in through the intake port (20) into the inside of the fan case (100) and a power transmission unit (140) provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth (120), which transmits the rotational force of the fan case motor (200) to the bell mouth (120) so that the fan case (100) rotates, and is provided to communicate with the discharge port (31) or the exhaust port (32) as the fan case (100) rotates.

[0243] The above air conditioner (1) may include a recessed portion (500) that is recessed from the inner surface of the housing (10) toward the outer surface of the housing (10) to prevent interference between the fan case (100) and the inner surface of the housing (10) when the fan case (100) rotates.

[0244] The air conditioner (1) may include a first connection part (610) provided to guide air blown by the blower fan (70) to the discharge port (31) when the fan case (100) is in communication with the discharge port (31). The air conditioner (1) may further include a second connection part (620) provided to guide air blown by the blower fan (70) to the exhaust port (32) when the fan case (100) is in communication with the exhaust port (32).

[0245] The above air conditioner (1) may further include a damper (700) that is arranged to open or close the exhaust port (32) by rotating around one end.

[0246] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10), an intake port (20) provided in the housing (10), a plurality of openings (30) provided to discharge air sucked in through the intake port (20), a blower fan (70) provided to suck in air through the intake port (20) or discharge air through the plurality of openings (30), and a fan case (100) that accommodates the blower fan (70), a fan case motor (200) that generates rotational force to rotate the fan case (100), and a gear (300) provided to receive rotational force of the fan case motor (200). The fan case (100) includes a bell mouth (120) that is provided to guide air sucked in through the intake port (20) into the inside of the fan case (100), and a fan case gear (141) that is provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth (120) and engages with the gear (300) to transmit the rotational force of the fan case motor (200), and is provided to selectively communicate with any one of the plurality of openings (30) as the fan case (100) rotates.

[0247] According to the present disclosure, when the fan case of an air conditioner is connected to an exhaust port, the air conditioner can cool or heat indoor air. Furthermore, when the fan case of the air conditioner is connected to an exhaust port, the air conditioner can exhaust indoor air to the outside. In other words, the air conditioner can perform both cooling and heating functions and exhaust functions.

[0248] According to the concept of the present disclosure, an air conditioner can perform an exhaust function as well as a blower fan provided for cooling and heating functions. In other words, since a separate fan for the exhaust function is not required, the air conditioner can have a relatively small size.

[0249] According to the invention, an air conditioner can reduce pressure loss during exhaust by rotating a fan case or by using guide vanes provided in a damper. Through this configuration, the exhaust performance of the air conditioner can be improved.

[0250] 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.

[0251] 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 suction port provided in the above housing; A blower fan provided to suck air through the above suction port; An outlet provided to discharge air into a first space communicating with the above suction port; An exhaust port provided to discharge air into a second space separated from the first space; A fan case disposed inside the housing and accommodating the blower fan; A fan case motor that generates rotational force to rotate the fan case; and Includes a gear configured to transmit the rotational power of the above fan case motor, The above fan case, A fan case gear is provided on the outer surface of the fan case and is meshed with the gear to transmit the rotational power of the fan case motor. An air conditioner in which the fan case is arranged to communicate with the discharge port or the exhaust port as the fan case rotates.

2. In paragraph 1, The above fan case, It further includes a bell mouth that is provided to guide air sucked through the above intake port into the inside of the fan case, The above fan case gear is an air conditioner provided on the outer surface of the bell mouth.

3. In paragraph 2, The above bell mouse, A first bell mouse provided on one side of the above fan case; and Including a second bell mouse provided on the other side of the above fan case, An air conditioner in which the fan case gear is provided on the outer surface of one of the first bell mouth and the second bell mouth.

4. In paragraph 1, The above fan case, An air conditioner further comprising a fan case outlet through which air blown by the blower fan is discharged, wherein one end of the fan case outlet is provided in an arc shape.

5. In paragraph 4, An air conditioner including a recessed portion that is recessed toward the outside of the housing from the inner side of the housing to prevent interference between the fan case outlet and the inner side of the housing when the fan case rotates.

6. In paragraph 4, When the fan case is in communication with the outlet, a first connecting portion connecting the fan case outlet and the outlet; and An air conditioner further comprising a second connecting portion connecting the fan case outlet and the exhaust port when the fan case is in communication with the exhaust port.

7. In paragraph 6, The above first connecting part is, One end is connected to the above discharge port, and the other end is provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet. The above second connecting part is, An air conditioner in which one end is connected to the exhaust port and the other end is provided in a shape corresponding to one end of the fan case outlet.

8. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner further comprising a damper configured to open or close the exhaust port.

9. In paragraph 8, An air conditioner in which the damper closes the exhaust port when the fan case is in communication with the exhaust port.

10. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner in which the direction in which the above discharge port is opened and the direction in which the above exhaust port is opened are perpendicular to each other.

11. In paragraph 1, The above blower fan, 1st blower fan; and Including a second blower fan arranged on one side of the first blower fan, The above fan case, a first fan case accommodating the first blower fan; and Further comprising a second fan case accommodating the second blower fan, The above exhaust port is, A first exhaust port provided to communicate with the first fan case; and An air conditioner including a second exhaust port that is provided to communicate with the second fan case.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first fan case is arranged to communicate with the discharge port or the first exhaust port as it rotates, The second fan case is arranged to communicate with the discharge port or the second exhaust port as it rotates, An air conditioner in which the first fan case and the second fan case are arranged to rotate independently of each other.

13. In paragraph 12, a first damper configured to open or close the first exhaust port; and An air conditioner further comprising a second damper configured to open or close the second exhaust port independently of the first damper opening or closing the first exhaust port.

14. In paragraph 11, An air conditioner further comprising an exhaust pipe configured to guide air discharged from the first exhaust port and air discharged from the second exhaust port to the second space.

15. In paragraph 2, The above bell mouse, A first bell mouse provided on one side of the above fan case; and Including a second bell mouse provided on the other side of the above fan case, The above fan case gear is, A first fan case gear provided on the outer surface of the first bell mouse; and Further comprising a second fan case gear provided on the outer surface of the second bell mouse, An air conditioner in which the first fan case gear and the second fan case gear are arranged to rotate in the same direction.

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