Air conditioner and control method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed is a ceiling-type air conditioner. The ceiling-type air conditioner disclosed herein comprises: a cabinet; a panel disposed on one surface of the cabinet; and a sensor unit disposed inside the panel, wherein the sensor unit comprises a sensor for detecting an object located outside the panel, and a case accommodating the sensor, and the case comprises a support unit supporting the sensor such that the sensor senses in a direction inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the panel, and a cover unit coupled to the support unit and covering the sensor.

Description

Air conditioner and control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an air conditioner including a sensor for detecting an object and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] An air conditioner is a device that controls temperature, humidity, air flow, and distribution suitable for human activities, and is composed of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower fan.

[0003] The above information is provided solely as background information to aid understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no claim is made, regarding whether any of the above information constitutes prior art in connection with this disclosure.

[0004] Recently, object detection sensors have been introduced to improve the efficiency of air conditioners.

[0005] For example, air conditioners used PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor) type object detection sensors. However, because PIR sensors must protrude to perform their sensing functions, air conditioners equipped with PIR sensors posed aesthetic problems. In particular, four-way cassette air conditioners required complex connections of four or more sensors to detect occupancy and control airflow throughout the entire space. This resulted in a large number of protruding sensors, creating design issues.

[0006] Additionally, in ceiling-mounted air conditioners, the sensors are positioned vertically from the panel. This reduces the sensor's object detection efficiency.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure is to address at least the problems and / or disadvantages described above and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner including a sensor for detecting an object and a method for controlling the same.

[0008] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the following description, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the embodiments presented.

[0009] A ceiling-type air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet, a panel disposed on one side of the cabinet, and a sensor unit disposed on the inside of the panel, wherein the sensor unit includes a sensor for detecting an object located outside the panel and a case for accommodating the sensor, and the case includes a support unit for supporting the sensor so that the sensor senses in a direction inclined at a preset angle with respect to the panel, and a cover unit coupled with the support unit for covering the sensor.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method performed by a ceiling-type air conditioner is provided. The method comprises the steps of acquiring sensing data from a sensor positioned in a direction inclined at a preset angle from the inside of a panel positioned on one surface of a cabinet of the ceiling-type air conditioner, and driving the ceiling-type air conditioner when a moving object positioned outside the panel is identified based on the sensing data.

[0011] Other aspects, advantages and salient features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the configuration of a ceiling-type air conditioner according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a ceiling-type air conditioner according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a panel arranged on one side of a ceiling-type air conditioner according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a ceiling-type air conditioner according to one or more embodiments 10 of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a sensor unit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a support on which a sensor is mounted according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a support having a sensor coupled thereto according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a cover portion including a control lever according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' of the case of FIG. 9 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing one side of a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a ceiling-type air conditioner according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Note that similar reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to describe identical or similar elements, features and structures.

[0026] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present invention as defined by the claims and their corresponding claims. While it includes numerous specific details to facilitate this understanding, these are merely exemplary. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations may be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and structures may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0027] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not limited to the bibliographic meaning described in this document, but are used by the inventors only to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present invention.

[0028] Accordingly, the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0029] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are understood to include plural references. Thus, reference to a “component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0030] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0033] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] The blocks and combinations of the flowcharts in each flowchart can be performed by one or more computer programs containing instructions. The entirety of one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device, or the one or more computer programs may be divided into different portions stored in multiple different memory devices.

[0039] The functions or operations described herein may be performed by a single processor or a combination of processors. A single processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing and includes circuits such as an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth® chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near-field communication (NFC) chip, a connection chip, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a fingerprint sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio codec chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), an IC, or a similar chip.

[0040] Hereinafter, a ceiling-type air conditioner according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the configuration of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] According to FIG. 1, a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can be placed on the ceiling of an indoor space. In this case, a user (80) can walk under the ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0043] The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) includes a sensor unit (40) inside and can detect the movement of a user (80) based on sensing data of the sensor unit (40).

[0044] According to Fig. 1, the sensing range of the sensor unit (40) can be a state of being inclined at a preset angle range between the vertical direction below the ceiling (1) and the direction parallel to the ceiling (1). In Fig. 1, a state of being inclined at an arbitrary angle within the range of θ is illustrated. In this case, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can identify the movement of the user (80) in advance before the user (80) moves to a position directly below the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). Therefore, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can be driven in advance to provide cold air or warm air. The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can be air-conditioned with an outdoor unit to provide cold air or warm air. The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) and the outdoor unit can be combined to form an air conditioning system. Alternatively, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may be referred to as an indoor unit, or may be referred to as a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) including the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the indoor unit is referred to as a ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0045] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of an air conditioning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, the air conditioning system may include an indoor unit (100) and an outdoor unit (200).

[0047] The indoor unit (100) may be located in a room where air conditioning is to be performed. For example, the indoor unit (100) may be installed in a home or office. When implemented as a ceiling-type air conditioner (100), the indoor unit (100) may be installed on the ceiling of a home or office, etc. When implemented as a stand-alone air conditioner, the indoor unit (100) may be manufactured and installed in a structure that allows it to be supported in any location.

[0048] The outdoor unit (200) can be installed outdoors where air conditioning is not performed.

[0049] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 2, the outdoor unit (200) may be electrically connected to the indoor unit (100). For example, when a user (80) inputs a command to turn on the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) through an input interface or remote control provided on the main body of the indoor unit (100), the indoor unit (100) may transmit the turn-on command to the outdoor unit (200). Accordingly, the outdoor unit (200) and the indoor unit (100) may operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to the user's (80) command.

[0050] The indoor unit (100) can be classified into a ceiling-type indoor unit, a stand-type indoor unit, a wall-mounted indoor unit, etc., depending on the method of placement. When implemented as a ceiling-type indoor unit (100), it can be classified into a 4-way type indoor unit, a 1-way type indoor unit, a duct type indoor unit, etc., depending on the method of air discharge.

[0051] The air conditioning system of FIG. 2 includes a refrigerant circuit that circulates refrigerant between indoors and outdoors. The refrigerant circulates between indoors and outdoors along the refrigerant circuit and can absorb or release heat during a state change (e.g., from gas to liquid, or from liquid to gas).

[0052] To induce a change in the state of the refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit may include a compressor (3), an outdoor heat exchanger (4), an expansion device (5), and an indoor heat exchanger (6).

[0053] Here, the expansion device (5) may be otherwise referred to as an expansion valve (5).

[0054] The compressor (3) compresses the gaseous refrigerant to create a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor (3) is introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger (4).

[0055] A fan may be provided near the outdoor heat exchanger (4). The fan may blow outdoor air to the heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and outdoor air.

[0056] In the outdoor heat exchanger (4), the high-temperature / high-pressure gaseous refrigerant is converted into a liquid refrigerant by the outside air and releases heat. The liquid refrigerant discharged from the outdoor heat exchanger (4) is introduced into the expansion device (5).

[0057] The expansion device (5) lowers the pressure and temperature of the liquid refrigerant to make it a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant discharged from the expansion valve (5) flows into the indoor heat exchanger (6).

[0058] In the indoor heat exchanger (6), the low-temperature / low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding hot air and evaporates into a gaseous state. The gaseous refrigerant discharged from the indoor heat exchanger (6) is introduced into the compressor (3) and circulated through the refrigerant circuit again.

[0059] As described above, the refrigerant can release heat from the outdoor heat exchanger (4) and absorb heat from the indoor heat exchanger (6). The indoor heat exchanger (6) is installed in the indoor unit (100) together with the expansion valve (5), and the outdoor heat exchanger (4) can be installed in the outdoor unit (2) together with the compressor (3). Therefore, the indoor heat exchanger (6) can cool the indoor air.

[0060] Likewise, the indoor heat exchanger (6) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit (100), the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor space can be cooled by blowing the cooled indoor air while passing through the cooled indoor heat exchanger (6). In addition, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger (6), the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor space can be heated by blowing the heated indoor air while passing through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger (6).

[0061] That is, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating through the outdoor heat exchanger (4) and the indoor heat exchanger (6). For this circulation of the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor (3) that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor (3) can suck in refrigerant gas through an intake port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor (3) can discharge high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through an exhaust port. The compressor (3) may be placed inside the outdoor unit (200).

[0062] The refrigerant may circulate in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger (6) through a refrigerant pipe, or may circulate in the order of a compressor (3), an indoor heat exchanger (6), an expansion device (5), and an outdoor heat exchanger (4).

[0063] The outdoor unit (200) does not necessarily have to be used in connection with one indoor unit (100), i.e., one air conditioner (100), and may be used in connection with multiple air conditioners (100).

[0064] When one outdoor unit (200) and one air conditioner (100) are directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant can be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit (200) and one air conditioner (100) through the refrigerant pipe.

[0065] As another example, when one outdoor unit (200) is connected to two or more ceiling-type air conditioners (100) via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units (100) via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit (200). The refrigerants discharged from the multiple indoor units (100) can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit (200). For example, multiple indoor units (100) can be directly connected in parallel to one outdoor unit (200) via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0066] The plurality of indoor units (100) can be independently operated according to the operating mode set by the user. That is, some of the plurality of indoor units (100) can be operated in cooling mode, while others can be operated in heating mode. At this time, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit (100) at a high or low pressure along a designated circulation path through a flow switching valve, which will be described later, and discharged to be circulated to the outdoor unit (200).

[0067] For example, in a ceiling-type air conditioner (100), when two or more outdoor units (200) and two or more indoor units (100) are connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, refrigerants discharged from multiple outdoor units (200) can join and flow through one refrigerant pipe, and then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units (100).

[0068] The plurality of outdoor units (200) may all be driven or at least some may not be driven depending on the operating load according to the operating amount of the plurality of indoor units (100). At this time, the refrigerant may be arranged to be introduced into the outdoor unit (200) that is selectively driven through a flow switching valve (not shown) and circulated. The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include an expansion device (5) to lower the pressure of the refrigerant introduced into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device (5) may be placed inside the indoor unit (100) or the outdoor unit (200), or may be placed in both.

[0069] The expansion device (5) can lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant by utilizing, for example, a throttling effect. The expansion device (5) can include an orifice (not shown) that can reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. The refrigerant passing through the orifice (not shown) can have its temperature and pressure lowered.

[0070] The expansion device (5) can be implemented as an electronic expansion device capable of controlling, for example, the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's passage in a partially open state to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's passage in a fully open state). The amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device (5) can be controlled depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion device.

[0071] The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may further include a refrigerant diverting valve (not shown) disposed on a refrigerant circulation path. The refrigerant diverting valve (not shown) may include, for example, a 4-way valve. The refrigerant diverting valve (not shown) may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the operating mode of the indoor unit (100) (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The refrigerant diverting valve (not shown) may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor (3).

[0072] A ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include an accumulator (not shown). The accumulator (not shown) may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in an indoor heat exchanger (6) or an outdoor heat exchanger (4) may be introduced into the accumulator (not shown).

[0073] An accumulator (not shown) can separate refrigerant liquid from refrigerant gas when refrigerant mixed with refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas flows in, and provide refrigerant gas from which refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor (3).

[0074] Although FIG. 2 illustrates a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) having a structure in which air is discharged in one direction, the number of discharge ports may be implemented as two or more. For example, in the case of a four-way configuration, each discharge port may be provided in four directions perpendicular to each other based on the center of the panel of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to various types of ceiling-type air conditioners (100) without limitation on the number of discharge ports.

[0075] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 3, a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a cabinet (10), a panel (20) disposed on one side of the cabinet (10), and a sensor unit (40) disposed on the inside of the panel (20).

[0077] The cabinet (10) forms the exterior of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) and may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is approximately long and narrow. Since the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) is used by being embedded in the ceiling, the exterior of the cabinet (10) may not be directly visible to the human eye after being embedded. Although not illustrated in FIG. 3, the exterior of the cabinet (10) may further include at least one connecting portion for coupling or supporting a structure within the ceiling.

[0078] In this disclosure, the term “cabinet (10)” is used, but the term “cabinet (10)” may be replaced with various expressions such as “housing” or “body.”

[0079] The panel (20) may be arranged on one side of the cabinet (10). An outlet (21) is provided on the front of the panel (20). The outlet (21) is formed to allow air to pass through, and can control the direction of the cold or warm air discharged into the room. Specifically, the outlet (21) may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of the discharged air. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the discharged airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto, and may be omitted. The outlet (21) may be implemented in various forms, such as a groove shape or a hole shape. When the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) of the present disclosure is implemented as a wind-free air conditioner, the outlet (21) may be implemented as a plurality of micro holes. A wind-free air conditioner is an air conditioner that cools an indoor space without generating direct wind by discharging cold air through a plurality of micro holes.

[0080] The panel (20) may be implemented in a detachable form on one side of the cabinet (10), or may be implemented as an integral part of the cabinet (10). In the case of a wind-free air conditioner, the panel (20) may be a wind-free panel including micro holes. In addition, the outlet (21) may be replaced with various expressions such as an exhaust port, an outlet, an outlet port, a wind-free hole, etc.

[0081] An indoor heat exchanger (6) and a blower may be provided inside the cabinet (10) of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) and are arranged on a path connecting the intake port (23) and the discharge port (21).

[0082] The blower (not shown) may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. For example, the indoor fan may include an axial fan, a diffusion fan, a crossflow fan, or a centrifugal fan.

[0083] The indoor heat exchanger (6) can absorb heat from air introduced through the intake port (23) or transfer heat to air introduced through the intake port (23). The indoor heat exchanger (6) can include a heat exchange tube through which a refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tube to increase the heat transfer area.

[0084] The ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a drain tray (not shown) disposed below the indoor heat exchanger (6) to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger (6). The condensate collected in the drain tray (not shown) may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray (not shown) may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger (6).

[0085] The sensor unit (40) is arranged on the inside of the panel (20) and can detect an object located outside the panel (20). Specifically, it can identify a human body, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and a sensor for detecting various moving objects such as animals or robots can be used. This sensor can be configured to detect a data value for detecting an object located outside the panel (20) and transmit the detected information to a processor via an electrical signal. The sensor can mainly use a radar (RADAR) sensor. However, the sensor is not limited thereto, and various sensors such as a lidar (RIDAR) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor can be used.

[0086] A radar (RADAR) sensor can detect various data, such as distance information, speed information, and angle information of an object, by penetrating a panel (20) using millimeter wave (mmWAVE) radio waves. The processor can receive the detected information from the radar sensor. As described above, the object may be primarily a human body, but is not limited thereto, and various information, such as distance information, speed information, and angle information of various objects, as well as the human body, can be detected.

[0087] Radar sensors can detect information about objects by considering various factors, including transmitted power, reflective area, received power, and distance. When a radar sensor transmits waves to an object, some of the waves are reflected and return to the radar system's antenna. The time it takes for this to happen and the intensity of the reflected signal can be used to determine the distance and properties of objects, such as humans.

[0088] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of a panel (20) arranged on one side of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 4, the panel (20) may include an outlet (21), an intake (23), a cover (25), and a sensor (40).

[0090] Referring to Fig. 4, the intake port (23) may be located at the rear of the central portion of the panel (20), and the discharge port (21) may be located in front of the intake port (23) at the central portion of the panel (20). The cover portion (25) may be located at the left or right side of the lower surface of the panel (20). Specifically, the cover portion (25) may be positioned at a point a certain distance from the left or right side of the discharge port (21) and the intake port (23) at the lower surface of the panel (20). The cover portion (25) may protect some electronic devices inside the ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0091] Referring to FIG. 4, the sensor unit (40) may be arranged on the inner side of the panel (20). In addition, the sensor unit (40) may be arranged at a position adjacent to the side of the cover unit (25) in the space between the discharge port (21) and the suction port (23). Through this arrangement, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can maintain a neat appearance by preventing the sensor unit (40) from protruding from the outer side of the panel (20). In addition, through this arrangement, the sensor unit (40) can efficiently detect a human body located on the outer side of the panel (20). In addition, unlike what is shown in FIG. 4, the sensor unit (40) may be installed so as not to be visible from the outer side of the panel (20).

[0092] Referring to Fig. 4, the intake port (23) can draw indoor air into the interior of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). This intake air passes through a filter within the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) to remove dust and contaminants, and then passes through a cooling coil (not shown) or a heating coil (not shown) to regulate its temperature. The treated air is then discharged back into the room through the outlet port (21), thereby controlling the indoor temperature and air quality.

[0093] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 5, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a memory (53) in which at least one command is stored, a sensor unit (40), a processor (51), and a driving unit (55).

[0095] The driving unit (55) is a component necessary for controlling the operation of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). The driving unit (55) may include an expansion device (5) and a heat exchanger (6) among these components, but in order to perform air conditioning as described in FIG. 2, the components of the outdoor unit (200), such as a compressor (3), a condenser (not shown), an evaporator (not shown), multiple fan motors (not shown), and multiple fans (not shown), may be used together.

[0096] The processor (51) may include a control circuit and is electrically connected to a memory (53) in which at least one command is stored, a sensor unit (40), and a driving unit (55). The processor (51) may perform various control operations by executing at least one command stored in the memory (53).

[0097] The processor (51) can determine whether to drive based on the sensing data sensed by the sensor unit (40). Specifically, after the sensor unit (40) transmits a detection signal to the outside and receives a reflected signal (ultrasonic wave, radar signal, ultraviolet signal, etc.) corresponding thereto, the processor (51) can determine whether an external object exists based on the amount, size, reception time, etc. of the reflected signal. If the processor (51) determines that there is an object (e.g., a human body) moving from the outside toward the ceiling-type air conditioner (100), the processor (51) can control the driving unit (55) according to a preset user setting value. For example, if it is set to provide cold air when a user (80) passes by, the driving unit (55) can be controlled to discharge low-temperature air.

[0098] The user-defined values ​​may also include settings for the driving mode. In this case, the processor (51) may output a mode control signal to control the driving unit (55) to operate in a preset driving mode based on information detected through the sensor.

[0099] For example, the processor (51) can control the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) to operate in one of the cooling operation mode, the dehumidifying operation mode, and the cleaning operation mode based on information detected through the sensor.

[0100] When the cooling operation mode is selected, the processor (51) can perform cooling operation based on the target temperature and the indoor temperature. When performing cooling operation, the processor (51) can operate the compressor (3) and multiple fan motors (not shown) among the components of the drive unit (55). The processor (51) can set the target temperature based on data detected through the sensor and output a cooling control signal for operating the drive unit (55) accordingly.

[0101] When the cooling operation mode is selected, the processor (51) can control the rotation speeds of multiple fans (not shown) among the components of the driving unit (55) differently from each other.

[0102] For example, when the cooling operation mode is selected, the processor (51) can control some of the plurality of fans (not shown) to rotate at the fastest speed and some of the fans to rotate at the slowest speed sequentially.

[0103] When the air conditioning system is in operation, the indoor heat exchanger (6) is cooled by the refrigerant, and when the air sucked in through the intake port (23) comes into contact with the cooled indoor heat exchanger (6), moisture may condense on the surface of the heat exchanger (6). Some of the moisture may move downward along the surface of the indoor heat exchanger (6) and be collected through the water collector.

[0104] When the dehumidifying operation mode is selected for the ceiling-type air conditioner (100), the processor (51) can set a target humidity based on the sensing value detected by the sensor. Based on this, the processor (51) can control the driving unit (55) to control the indoor humidity.

[0105] When the clean operation mode of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) is selected, the processor (51) operates multiple fans (not shown) to allow indoor air to pass through a filter installed inside the cabinet (10), thereby purifying the indoor air. When the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) operates in the clean operation mode, the compressor (3) does not operate, so no condensation occurs in the indoor heat exchanger (6).

[0106] In addition, the processor (51) can output a control signal for controlling the driving unit (55) based on programs, data, and commands stored in the memory (53).

[0107] The processor (51) may include an arithmetic circuit, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The processor (51) may include at least one chip. In addition, the processor (51) may include at least one core.

[0108] The processor (51) can be implemented in various forms such as a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a micro controller unit (MCU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), a controller, a timing controller (TCON), etc.

[0109] The processor (51) may be implemented as a SoC (System on Chip), LSI (large scale integration), or may be implemented in the form of an FPGA (Field Programmable gate array).

[0110] The processor (51) can perform various operations using various programs, data, commands, etc. stored in the memory (53).

[0111] A memory (53) containing at least one command can store and / or memorize a program and / or data for processing information detected by a sensor. In addition, the memory (53) containing at least one command can store and / or memorize a program and / or data for controlling a driving unit (55).

[0112] As described above, the memory (53) is configured to store various programs, data, commands, etc. required for the operation of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). Like the processor (51), the memory (53) may also be implemented in at least one or more forms, and some of the memories may be mounted on the processor (51) or implemented in the form of external memory.

[0113] Specifically, the memory (53) may be implemented in various forms, such as volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)).

[0114] The sensor unit (40) is configured to sense the external status of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0115] Since Fig. 1 illustrates a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) having a one-way discharge port, only one sensor unit (40) can be used on the discharge port side. However, this is not limited to this, and even if it is a one-way discharge port (21), multiple sensor units (40) can be used. In addition, when implemented with a structure having multiple discharge ports (21), at least one sensor unit (40) can be provided for each discharge port.

[0116] The sensor unit (40) may include at least one sensor. Here, the sensor may be a variety of sensors such as a radar sensor, a lidar sensor, and an infrared sensor.

[0117] Radar sensors can detect sensing data to obtain distance information, speed information, and angle information.

[0118] As described above, the processor (51) can perform various control operations based on the sensing data of the sensor unit (40). Therefore, it is advantageous to sense the approach of the user (80) in advance before the user (80) approaches right next to the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). To this end, in various embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor unit (40) is configured to be inclined within a preset angle range.

[0119] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a sensor unit (40) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 6, the sensor unit (40) may include a sensor (41) that detects information for detecting a human body located outside the panel (20), and a case that accommodates the sensor.

[0121] The case that accommodates the sensor may include a support portion (42) that supports the sensor (41) and a cover portion (43) that covers the sensor (41).

[0122] The case including the support (42) and the cover (43) may be made of plastic. However, it is not limited thereto, and may be made of various materials that can transmit microwaves transmitted from the sensor (41), etc.

[0123] The sensor (41) can be mounted on the support (42) while being tilted at a preset angle with respect to the panel (20).

[0124] The sensor (41) may be a variety of sensors such as a radar sensor, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor that can detect data values ​​by penetrating even when the front of the sensor is blocked by an object.

[0125] Radar sensors can emit electromagnetic waves and measure the time it takes for those waves to reflect off the human body and return. Radar sensors can effectively penetrate low-visibility materials, such as plastic. As shown in Fig. 5, they can penetrate the case and the panel (20) shown in Figs. 3 and 4, detecting data values ​​that can detect the human body.

[0126] An infrared (IR) sensor can detect data values ​​that detect the heat of an object using infrared light. Since an IR sensor can penetrate various objects, such as plastic or glass, it can detect data values ​​that can detect a human body by penetrating a case and panel (20).

[0127] Ultrasonic sensors can emit sound waves and measure the time it takes for those waves to reflect off an object and return. Ultrasonic waves can pass through air, liquids, and some solids. Therefore, ultrasonic sensors can detect data values ​​that can detect the human body by penetrating the case and panel (10).

[0128] The support part (42) and the cover part (43) can accommodate the sensor (41) and protect the sensor (41) from various external factors such as heat, wind, and dust inside the ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0129] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a support (42) to which a sensor (41) is coupled according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a support (42) on which a sensor (41) is mounted according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0131] The support (42) of Fig. 7 shows a form in which the upper and lower relationship of the support (42) of Fig. 6 is reversed. Referring to Figs. 7 and 8, the support (42) may be composed of a first bottom surface (42a), a mounting surface (42b), a second bottom surface (42c), and a third bottom surface (42d). Specifically, the first bottom surface (42a) may be arranged parallel to the panel (20) at the center of the support. The mounting surface (42b) is inclined at a preset angle to one side from the first bottom surface (42a). The preset angle may be parallel to the sensor (41). When the sensor (41) and the mounting surface (42b) are parallel, the diffraction of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the sensor is reduced, thereby increasing accuracy. Specifically, as diffraction decreases, the phenomenon of waves bending at the edge of the settling surface can be reduced, allowing the sensor (41) to capture clearer and more accurate information.

[0132] The second bottom surface (42c) can be positioned to protrude from the mounting surface (42b). The second bottom surface (42c) can support the sensor (42). In addition, the sensor (42) can be mounted on the mounting surface (42b) while being supported by the second bottom surface (42c).

[0133] The second bottom surface (42c) can increase the stability of the sensor (42) by supporting the sensor (41) and the mounting surface (42b).

[0134] The third bottom surface (42d) can be formed at a different height from the first bottom surface (42a) and the second bottom surface (42c) on the opposite side of the second bottom surface (42c) with respect to the first bottom surface (42a).

[0135] The third bottom surface (42d) can be formed in a slot shape. Accordingly, the third bottom surface (42d) can penetrate between the inside and outside of the case through the slot portion.

[0136] The internal space of the slot portion may include a dust sensor (not shown). The dust sensor (not shown) can detect the level of dust in the air as a data value. In addition, the level of contamination of the air filter can be measured.

[0137] Although not illustrated in FIG. 5, the processor (51) can continuously monitor the dust level in the air by receiving data values ​​detected through a dust sensor (not illustrated) and can notify the user when the filter needs to be replaced or cleaned. In addition, the processor (51) can automatically adjust the speed of multiple fans by receiving data values ​​detected through the dust sensor (not illustrated).

[0138] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a cross-section of a support coupled with a sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Referring to Fig. 8, the settling surface (42b) is configured to protrude further upward than the first bottom surface (42a).

[0140] The sensor (41) may include a transmitter, an antenna, and a receiver.

[0141] In a radar sensor, the transmitter generates and emits electromagnetic waves. The antenna radiates the transmitted signal into space and can receive signals that reflect off objects. The receiver can receive and detect the reflected radar signal. Furthermore, if the signal received by the receiver is weak, it can amplify it and convert it into useful data.

[0142] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure of FIG. 8, the first bottom surface (42a) is formed in a structure parallel to the panel (20). This structure can prevent diffraction of electromagnetic waves transmitted by the sensor (41).

[0143] In Fig. 8, the angle of the mounting surface supporting the sensor (41) may be one of the angle ranges of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20). Since the sensor (41) is placed on the mounting surface, the angle of the mounting surface may become the sensing angle of the sensor (41).

[0144] The sensing angle of the sensor (41) can be adjusted manually or automatically.

[0145] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a cover part including a control lever (70) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] A case according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 9 may include a support portion (42) and a cover portion (43).

[0147] The cover portion (43) may be composed of a first cover portion (43a) and a second cover portion (43b). The first cover portion (43a) may cover a portion of the first bottom surface (42c) and the upper side of the third bottom surface (42d). The second cover portion (43b) may cover the remaining portion of the first bottom surface (42a) and the upper side of the second bottom surface (43c). In addition, the second cover portion (43b) may include a curved surface having a preset curvature.

[0148] According to another example, the second cover part (43b) may have a curved surface with a predetermined curvature at some portions and a flat shape at other portions like the first cover part (43b).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 9, a central portion of the second cover portion (43b) may have a curved surface having a preset curvature, and the remaining two sides may have a flat shape like the first cover portion (43b).

[0150] The first cover part (43a) and the second cover part (43b) may be integrated or may be made of different materials.

[0151] The second cover portion (43b) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 9 may include a control lever (70).

[0152] The control lever (70) can be positioned on the curved surface of the second cover portion (43b). In addition, the control lever (70) can be positioned so as to be movable along the curved surface.

[0153] The control lever (70) may further include a connecting portion (not shown). The sensor (41) may be connected to the control lever (70) via the connecting portion. Through this, the sensor (41) may be able to adjust the angle integrally according to the movement of the control lever (70). The angle of the adjustable sensor (41) may be within an angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20). The user may adjust the angle by holding and moving the control lever (70).

[0154] Meanwhile, the angle adjustment can be designed to be performed automatically. In this case, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may further include a motor (not shown) for adjusting the angle of the adjustment lever (70). The motor (not shown) is connected to one side of the adjustment lever (70) and rotates under the control of the processor (51), thereby moving the adjustment lever (70). Depending on the movement of the adjustment lever (70), the sensing angle of the sensor can be automatically adjusted.

[0155] Although not illustrated in FIG. 5, the sensor (41) can detect distance information data. In addition, the processor (51) can detect the room size through the distance information detected by the sensor (41). The processor (51) can control a motor (not illustrated) based on the detected room size to adjust the angle of the sensor (41).

[0156] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' of the case of FIG. 9 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a state in which a support portion (42) and a cover portion (43) are combined is illustrated. This structure can be referred to as a case. That is, the sensor portion (40) can include a case that accommodates the sensor (41). The case can include a support portion (42) and a cover portion (43), and the support portion (42) can include a first bottom surface (42a), a mounting surface (42b), a second bottom surface (42c), and a third bottom surface (42d). The cover portion (43) can include a first cover portion (43a) and a second cover portion (43b). The adjustment lever (70) is arranged on the curved surface of the second cover portion (43b). The adjustment lever (70) can move along the curved surface. Through this movement, the mounting angle of the sensor can be adjusted.

[0158] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIGS. 10 and 11, an additional structure (72) may be further included.

[0159] An additional structure (72) is connected to the control lever (70) and may be positioned between the control lever (70) and the sensor (41). The cross-section of the additional structure (72) may be fan-shaped. Specifically, the upper surface of the cross-section of the additional structure (72) may have the same shape as the curved surface of the second cover part (43b). Accordingly, when the control lever (70) moves to one side, the additional structure (72) moves together in the moving direction of the control lever (70), and one side of the additional structure (72) comes into contact with the bottom surface first to stop rotation.

[0160] Referring to Fig. 11, when the control lever (70) is moved to the left, the left side of the additional structure (72) comes into contact with the first bottom surface (42a), and rotation stops.

[0161] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIGS. 10 and 11, the additional structure (72) may be an elastic body. Specifically, the additional structure (72) may be made of various materials such as rubber, silicone, polyurethane, and the like.

[0162] According to another embodiment, the additional structure (72) may be made of a hard material such as plastic or aluminum.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) can adjust the sensor (41) to one of the angle ranges of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20) via the control lever (70). Specifically, in FIG. 10, the sensor (41) is positioned at the maximum angle within the angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20). In FIG. 11, the sensor (41) is positioned at the minimum angle within the angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20).

[0164] For example, although not shown in FIG. 4, the processor (51) may also detect indoor size data through the sensor (41). Based on the determined data, the processor (51) may adjust the angle of the sensor (41) to a minimum or maximum angle within an angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20), as shown in FIG. 11.

[0165] Specifically, the processor (51) can identify the distance to the wall when a wall is detected from the data sensed while the sensor (41) is tilted at the maximum angle. In the case of a four-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100), the distance to the four sides can be identified in the same manner. Consequently, the processor (51) can estimate the size of the indoor space or the installation location of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100). As a result of the estimation, if it is determined that the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) is located close to the wall on the first direction side, the processor (51) can set the inclination of the sensor on the first direction side to the minimum angle and set the inclination of the sensor on the opposite second direction side to the maximum angle so as to identify a human body at a relatively far distance.

[0166] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing one side of a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0167] Referring to Fig. 12, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may be a 4-way type ceiling-type air conditioner (100).

[0168] According to Fig. 12, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of outlets (21) arranged in a total of four directions. Specifically, the plurality of outlets (21) may be formed in four different directions on the panel (20).

[0169] In Fig. 12, a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a cabinet (10), a panel (20), an outlet (21), an intake (23), and a sensor unit (40).

[0170] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 12, a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may have one outlet (21) arranged in each of the east, west, south, and north directions. The 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include one sensor unit (40) in each of the east, west, south, and north directions.

[0171] In a 4-way ceiling-type air conditioner (100), one sensor unit (40) can be placed in each outlet direction. By placing one sensor unit (40) in each outlet direction, a human body moving in all directions can be dynamically detected.

[0172] When the processor (51) detects human body detection data through the sensor unit (40) in one of the four directions, it can control the driving unit (55) based on this. The processor (51) can adjust the wind strength, etc. for each outlet by controlling the driving unit (55). For example, when a human body is detected in the south, the processor (51) can control the driving unit (55) to blow strong wind from the southern outlet (21) and stop or blow weak wind from the other outlets (21).

[0173] In Fig. 12, a plurality of sensor units (40) can be arranged on the inner side of the panel (20). The plurality of sensor units (40) can measure at least one of distance data, speed data, angle data, or biosignal data coming from each direction.

[0174] The processor (51) can detect whether a human body is present based on the sensing values ​​measured by the plurality of sensor units (40). Based on the detected information, the processor (51) can control the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) so that the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) operates in at least one of a cooling operation mode, a dehumidifying operation mode, and a cleaning operation mode.

[0175] In Fig. 12, the plurality of sensor units (40) may include sensors (41) tilted at a preset angle in the direction outside the plurality of discharge ports (21) based on the center of the panel (20).

[0176] The processor (51) can detect whether a human body is present based on the sensing values ​​measured by the sensors (41) included in the plurality of sensor units (40).

[0177] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] In FIG. 13, a control method of a ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a step (S1310) of acquiring sensing data of a sensor (41) arranged in a direction inclined at a preset angle on the inside of a panel (20) arranged on one side of a cabinet (10).

[0179] In addition, the control method of the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a step (S1320) of driving the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) when an object moving outside the panel (20) is identified based on the acquired sensing data.

[0180] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure of FIG. 13, the sensing angle of the preset sensor (41) may be adjusted within an angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20). The sensing angle of the preset sensor (41) may be adjusted manually or automatically via a motor (not shown). Specifically, the user (80) may directly adjust the sensing angle of the sensor (41) within an angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel (20). Accordingly, the detection efficiency of the sensor (41) may be improved according to the size of the room and the characteristics of the user (80).

[0181] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure of FIG. 13, the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may further include a plurality of outlets (21) formed in four different directions, and a sensor (41) may be arranged for each of the plurality of outlets (21). Based on this configuration, the step of driving the ceiling-type air conditioner (100) may include a step of discharging air through at least one outlet (21) when an object moving in the direction of at least one outlet (21) among the plurality of outlets (21) is identified.

[0182] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (51) can predict the movement of the user (80) through a plurality of sensors (41). Accordingly, the processor (51) can discharge air through the discharge port (21) corresponding to the location where the user (80) will reach in advance. The processor (51) can control the driving unit (55) to discharge air through the plurality of discharge ports (21).

[0183] A ceiling-type air conditioner (100) 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.

[0184] Each of the components described in this document may be composed of one or more components, and the names of the components may vary depending on the type of electronic device.

[0185] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been individually described above, each embodiment does not necessarily have to be implemented alone, and the configuration and operation of each embodiment may be implemented in combination with at least one other embodiment.

[0186] Although various preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In ceiling-type air conditioners, cabinet; A panel arranged on one side of the above cabinet; It includes a sensor unit arranged on the inner side of the above panel; The above sensor part, A sensor for detecting an object located outside the above panel; and A case accommodating the above sensor; The above case is, A support member that supports the sensor so that the sensor senses in a direction tilted at a preset angle relative to the panel; and A ceiling-type air conditioner, comprising a cover part that covers the sensor and is combined with the support part.

2. In paragraph 1, memory where instructions are stored; and further comprising at least one processor communicatively coupled to the memory, At least one processor capable of individually or collectively executing the above ceiling-type air conditioner, A ceiling-type air conditioner that controls the operation of the ceiling-type air conditioner when the object placed outside the panel is detected based on the sensing result of the sensor.

3. In paragraph 2, The above sensor is a RADAR sensor, a ceiling-type air conditioner.

4. In paragraph 2, The operating mode of the above ceiling-type air conditioner is: A ceiling-type air conditioner comprising at least one operation mode among a cooling operation mode, a dehumidifying operation mode, and a cleaning operation mode.

5. In paragraph 2, The above support part, First floor surface; A mounting surface formed to be inclined at a preset angle to one side from the first floor surface; and A second bottom surface protruding from the above-mentioned mounting surface; The above sensor, A ceiling-type air conditioner, wherein one end is mounted on the mounting surface while being supported by the second floor surface.

6. In paragraph 5, The above support part, Further comprising a third bottom surface formed at a different height from the first bottom surface and the second bottom surface on the opposite side of the second bottom surface based on the first bottom surface; The above cover part, A first cover part for covering a part of the first bottom surface and an upper side of the third bottom surface; and A second cover part connected to the first cover part and covering the remaining portion of the first bottom surface and the upper side of the second bottom surface; A ceiling-type air conditioner, wherein the second cover part includes a curved surface having a preset curvature.

7. In paragraph 6, A ceiling-type air conditioner, wherein the first floor surface is arranged parallel to the panel.

8. In paragraph 1, The above preset angle is one of the angle ranges of 60°±20° based on the panel, a ceiling-type air conditioner.

9. In paragraph 7, The above case is, It further includes a control lever arranged on the curved surface of the second cover part so as to be movable along the curved surface; The above control lever is connected to the above sensor, A ceiling-type air conditioner in which the angle of the above sensor is adjustable according to the movement of the above control lever.

10. In paragraph 9, It further includes an additional structure connecting the above control lever and the above sensor; The above additional structure is an elastic body, an air conditioner.

11. In paragraph 5, The above case is, a connecting portion connected to the sensor on the second floor surface; and It further includes a motor for adjusting the angle of the above connecting portion; The above processor, A ceiling-type air conditioner that controls the motor to adjust the angle of the connecting portion, thereby changing the sensing angle of the sensor.

12. In paragraph 1, The above panel further includes a plurality of outlets formed in four different directions, The above sensor unit includes a plurality of sensor units arranged one at each of the plurality of discharge ports, Each of the above plurality of sensor units An air conditioner comprising a sensor tilted at a preset angle in the outer direction of the plurality of outlets based on the center of the panel.

13. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner, wherein the above sensor is capable of measuring at least one of distance data, speed data, angle data, or biosignal data.

14. In a control method of a ceiling-type air conditioner, A step of acquiring sensing data from a sensor arranged in a direction inclined at a preset angle on the inside of a panel arranged on one side of a cabinet of the ceiling-type air conditioner; A step of driving the ceiling-type air conditioner when an object moving outside the panel is identified based on the sensing data; Control method.

15. In paragraph 14, A control method wherein the sensing angle of the above sensor is adjustable within an angle range of 60°±20° with respect to the panel.

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