Air conditioner for controlling air-conditioning module on basis of performance data and efficiency data, and control method therefor

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner comprises: an air-conditioning module including at least one sensor, an evaporator, and a compressor; a memory storing instructions; and at least one processor. The air conditioner may acquire performance data and efficiency data of the air-conditioning module on the basis of at least one sensing data acquired by the at least one sensor and attribute values of the air-conditioning module, periodically update the performance data and the efficiency data, and control the air-conditioning module on the basis of the periodically updated performance data and the efficiency data.

Description

Air conditioner and control method thereof for controlling an air conditioning module based on performance data and efficiency data

[0001] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an air conditioner that controls an air conditioning module based on performance data and efficiency data, an air conditioner control method, and a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing the air conditioner control method on a computer.

[0002] Various types of air conditioners are widely used in indoor spaces. Air conditioners can regulate the environment of a conditioned space by controlling its operation. Air conditioners draw in indoor air, regulate its temperature and humidity, and then discharge the conditioned air back into the room. In this process, the indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity are adjusted in real time by the air conditioner.

[0003] However, while air conditioners are in use, indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity fluctuate in real time, making it difficult to control the air conditioner in real time by reflecting its operation. Therefore, there is a need for a device and method capable of controlling the air conditioner in real time by reflecting its operation.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes at least one sensor, an air conditioning module including an evaporator and a compressor, a memory storing instructions, and at least one processor including processing circuitry. The instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, so that the air conditioner can obtain performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module based on at least one sensed data acquired by the at least one sensor and an attribute value of the air conditioning module. The instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, so that the air conditioner can periodically update the performance data and the efficiency data. The air conditioner can control the air conditioning module based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data by executing the instructions individually or collectively by the at least one processor.

[0005] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an air conditioner is provided. The method for controlling an air conditioner may include a step of acquiring performance data and efficiency data of an air conditioning module based on at least one sensing data acquired by at least one sensor and an attribute value of the air conditioning module. The method for controlling an air conditioner may include a step of periodically updating the performance data and the efficiency data. The method for controlling an air conditioner may include a step of controlling the air conditioning module based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

[0006] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing an air conditioner control method on a computer is provided.

[0007] One embodiment of the present disclosure can be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals refer to structural elements.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the structure of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioner control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a sensing data acquisition structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of entering a freezing operation mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a process for determining a failure of an air conditioning module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an operation in which year-round performance data and year-round efficiency data are displayed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a machine learning model outputting operating parameters according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an operation in which performance data and efficiency data are displayed on an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a process for calculating a fee for the power consumption of an outdoor unit consumed by each of a plurality of indoor units according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing the structure of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an air conditioner, an external device, and a server according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioner control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] 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.

[0022] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0026] 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).

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device having at least one of these functions.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a standing air conditioner, a system air conditioner, etc.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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 configured on the outdoor unit or the indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0035] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger configured in an outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger configured in an indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0036] 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.

[0037] Indoor units can be 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0041] For example, an air conditioner may have a structure in which one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are directly connected via refrigerant pipes. In this case, the refrigerant may be configured to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit via the refrigerant pipes.

[0042] For example, an air conditioner may have a structure in which one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. In this case, refrigerant may flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units may be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units may be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0043] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some of the 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 high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow switching valve, described below, and then discharged to circulate to the outdoor unit.

[0044] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0045] Multiple outdoor units may 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 configured to be introduced into and circulated through a selectively operated outdoor unit via a flow switching valve. 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] An outdoor fan may be installed adjacent to 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.

[0052] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be configured 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.

[0053] 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 from an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0056] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter configured to filter foreign substances in the air flowing into the housing through the intake port.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The housing of the indoor unit may include 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.

[0059] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be configured inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0060] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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 configured to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0072] 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 external device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or external 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] In one embodiment, there may be one or more processors. When there is more than one processor, the operations of the present disclosure may be performed by one or more processors individually or collectively executing instructions and / or programs stored in memory. When a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes multiple operations, the multiple operations may be performed by one processor or by multiple processors.

[0081] For example, when the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation are performed by the method according to one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by the first processor, or some of the first to third operations may be performed by the first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the remaining operations may be performed by the second processor (e.g., an AI-dedicated processor). Here, operations for training / inference of an AI model may be performed by an AI-dedicated processor, which is an example of the second processor. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0082] One or more processors according to the present disclosure may be implemented as a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. If a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes multiple operations, the multiple operations may be performed by a single core or by multiple cores included in one or more processors.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for controlling an air conditioning module based on performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module. Before describing specific embodiments, the meanings of terms frequently used in one embodiment of the present disclosure are defined.

[0086] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data of the air conditioning module may indicate the cooling or heating capacity of the air conditioning module. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data of the air conditioning module may indicate the amount of thermal energy transferred by the refrigerant in the air conditioning module as it moves.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the efficiency data of the air conditioning module may represent the ratio of the power consumption of the air conditioning module to the cooling capacity, or the ratio of the power consumption of the air conditioning module to the heating capacity. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the efficiency data of the air conditioning module may represent the coefficient of performance (COP) of the air conditioning module. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the efficiency data of the air conditioning module may represent the ratio of the power consumption of the air conditioning module to the performance data. For example, the efficiency data of the air conditioning module may represent the ratio of the input energy to the output energy of the air conditioning module.

[0088] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensing data may represent data measured by the air conditioner through at least one sensor. In other words, the sensing data may represent result data measured by the air conditioner through at least one sensor.

[0089] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the attribute value of the air conditioning module may represent a numerical value representing the attribute of the air conditioning module. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the attribute value of the air conditioning module may change according to a setting. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the attribute value of the air conditioning module may be a unique value predetermined according to the air conditioning module. The attribute value of the air conditioning module may include, for example, at least one of the compressor rotation speed, the density of the refrigerant, the displacement volume of the compressor, the volumetric efficiency of the compressor, the mechanical efficiency of the compressor, or the enthalpy, but is not limited to the examples described above.

[0090] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating parameter may represent a parameter value for controlling the air conditioning module. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating parameter may represent a control signal for controlling the air conditioning module. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating parameter may represent a drive signal for controlling the air conditioning module. The operating parameter may include, for example, at least one of a frequency of a compressor, an air volume of the air conditioning module, a target evaporation pressure targeted by the air conditioning module, a target condensation pressure targeted by the air conditioning module, an indoor fan rotation speed set value set by the indoor fan rotation speed, an outdoor fan rotation speed set value set by the outdoor fan rotation speed, or a set temperature, but is not limited to the examples described above.

[0091] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial performance data may represent performance data when the air conditioner is first operated. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial performance data may represent an average value of performance data from the time the air conditioner is first operated to a specific point in time.

[0092] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial operation of the air conditioner may indicate the time when the air conditioner is newly installed, shipped from the manufacturer, or first turned on and operated by a user. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the specific point in time may be a time when performance data of the air conditioner can be stably acquired. For example, the specific point in time may be a time when the change trend of the performance data of the air conditioner becomes constant. In other words, the specific point in time may indicate a time when the change rate of the performance data of the air conditioner decreases below a reference value. The specific point in time may be preset. For example, the specific point in time may be preset as a first value. Furthermore, for example, the specific point in time may be one month from the time the air conditioner was first operated, but is not limited to the above-described examples. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial performance data may indicate an average value of performance data from the time the air conditioner was first operated to a specific number of operations. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the specific number may be the number of times the air conditioner has been operated so that performance data of the air conditioner can be stably acquired. For example, the specific number of times may be the number of times the air conditioner has been operated so that the change trend of the air conditioner's performance data remains constant. In other words, the specific number of times may represent the number of times the change rate of the air conditioner's performance data has decreased below a reference value. The specific number of times may be preset. For example, the specific number of times may be preset as a second value. For example, the specific number of times may be 30 times, including the number of times the air conditioner was first operated, but is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0093] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial efficiency data may represent efficiency data when the air conditioner is first operated. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial efficiency data may represent an average value of efficiency data from the time the air conditioner is first operated to a specific point in time.

[0094] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the specific point in time may be a point in time at which efficiency data of the air conditioner can be stably acquired. For example, the specific point in time may be a point in time at which the change trend of the efficiency data of the air conditioner becomes constant. In other words, the specific point in time may indicate a point in time at which the rate of change in the efficiency data of the air conditioner decreases below a reference value. The specific point in time may be preset. For example, the specific point in time may be preset to a third value. For example, the specific point in time may be one month from the time the air conditioner was first operated, but is not limited to the above-described example. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the initial efficiency data may represent an average value of efficiency data from the time the air conditioner was first operated to a specific number of operations. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the specific number may be the number of times the air conditioner was operated so that the efficiency data of the air conditioner can be stably acquired. For example, the specific number may be the number of times the air conditioner was operated so that the change trend of the efficiency data of the air conditioner becomes constant. That is, the specific number of times may represent the number of times the rate of change in the air conditioner's efficiency data has decreased below a reference value. The specific number of times may be preset. For example, the specific number of times may be preset as a fourth value. For example, the specific number of times may be 30 times, including the number of times the air conditioner was first operated, but is not limited to the above-mentioned example.

[0095] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first time period may represent an interval for calculating performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioner. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second time period may represent an interval for transmitting performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioner to an external device of the air conditioner. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second time period may be a longer time period than the first time period. For example, the first time period may be 1 minute, and the second time period may be 5 minutes, but the examples described above are not limited thereto. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third time period may represent an interval for displaying performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioner. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third time period may be a longer time period than the first time period. For example, the first time period may be 1 minute or 24 hours, and the third time period may be 6 months or 1 year, but the examples described above are not limited thereto. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third time period may be a longer time period than the second time period. For example, the second hour may be 5 minutes or 7 days, the third hour may be 6 months or 1 year, but is not limited to the examples above.

[0096] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may represent a table for outputting either a flow rate value of a refrigerant or a power consumption value of an air conditioning module.

[0097] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the evaporating pressure may represent a low-pressure pressure indicating the lowest refrigerant pressure in the air conditioning module. For example, the evaporating pressure may represent a pressure measured at the evaporator location. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the condensing pressure may represent a high-pressure pressure indicating the highest refrigerant pressure in the air conditioning module. For example, the condensing pressure may represent a pressure measured at the condenser location.

[0098] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the target performance data may represent a target performance value that the air conditioner ultimately seeks to achieve. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the target efficiency data may represent a target efficiency value that the air conditioner ultimately seeks to achieve.

[0099] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the critical performance data may represent a threshold value for determining whether the performance data is high or low. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the critical performance data may vary depending on the purpose or circumstances for which the performance data is used. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the critical efficiency data may represent a threshold value for determining whether the efficiency data is high or low. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the critical efficiency data may vary depending on the purpose or circumstances for which the efficiency data is used.

[0100] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the threshold value may be merely a reference value for distinguishing specific values. Therefore, the expressions "above the threshold value" and "below the threshold value" are merely examples, and may also be expressed as "above the threshold value" and "below the threshold value."

[0101] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted for clarity of description of the present disclosure, and similar parts are designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0102] Hereinafter, air conditioners according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0103] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the operation of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 1, operations for controlling an air conditioning module based on performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module by an air conditioner (100) are schematically described, and a detailed description of each operation will be described with reference to the drawings that follow.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) may include at least one outdoor unit (102) and at least one indoor unit (104). At least one indoor unit (104) may be placed within a target space to be cooled or heated. When multiple indoor units (104) are provided, each indoor unit (104) may be placed in a different target space. The multiple indoor units (104) may be connected to one outdoor unit (102) or to multiple indoor units (102). The outdoor unit (102) may be placed in an external space and may emit or absorb heat.

[0106] In operation 110, the air conditioner (100) can obtain sensing data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can collect sensing data.

[0107] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain sensing data from the outdoor unit (102). Alternatively, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain sensing data from the indoor unit (104). The air conditioner (100) can measure the sensing data using at least one sensor disposed in the indoor unit (104) or the outdoor unit (102). For example, the air conditioner (100) can measure the pressure of the refrigerant using a pressure sensor. The air conditioner (100) can measure the temperature of the refrigerant using a temperature sensor.

[0108] In operation 120, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data of the air conditioning module and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module.

[0109] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of an air conditioning module and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module using sensing data. For example, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of an air conditioning module and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module using sensing data indicating properties of a refrigerant. When the air conditioner (100) calculates performance data of an air conditioning module and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module using sensing data indicating properties of a refrigerant, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module from the air conditioner (100) itself.

[0110] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module regardless of the outdoor or indoor temperature or humidity. For example, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module using the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant. In other words, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module even when the outdoor or indoor temperature or humidity changes in real time.

[0111] Additionally, in operation 120, the air conditioner (100) may update performance data of the air conditioning module and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, "update" may indicate replacing existing data with new data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, "update" may be replaced with expressions such as change, recalculate, or renew, and is not limited to the examples described above.

[0112] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module may change in real time according to the operation of the air conditioning module. The air conditioner (100) may acquire the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module that change in real time, and update the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module.

[0113] In operation 130, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module using the updated performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module.

[0114] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can change operating parameters using updated performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module by adjusting at least one of the refrigerant circulation speed, refrigerant circulation amount, or refrigerant circulation number of the air conditioning module.

[0115] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module so that the performance data of the air conditioning module reaches the target performance data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module so that the performance data of the air conditioning module maintains the performance data when the performance data of the air conditioning module reaches the target performance data. For example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust operating parameters so that performance data close to the target performance data can be obtained. The close performance data may be a performance data value that indicates a difference from the target performance data by a threshold value or less.

[0116] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module so that the efficiency data of the air conditioning module reaches the target efficiency data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module so that the efficiency data of the air conditioning module maintains the efficiency data when the efficiency data of the air conditioning module reaches the target efficiency data. For example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust operating parameters so that efficiency data close to the target efficiency data can be obtained. The close efficiency data may be an efficiency data value that indicates a difference between the target efficiency data and the target efficiency data that is less than a threshold value.

[0117] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the structure of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) may include at least one sensor (220), a processor (210), an air conditioning module (212), and a memory (214). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioning module (212) may include an evaporator (212a) and a compressor (212b).

[0119] The air conditioner (100) can be implemented in various installation forms. For example, the air conditioner (100) can be implemented in a stand form, a wall-mounted form, a system air conditioner built into the ceiling form, or a home multi-air conditioner form.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one sensor (220) of the air conditioner (100) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a power sensor, or a humidity sensor.

[0121] The processor (210) controls the overall operation of the air conditioner (100). The processor (210) may be implemented with one or more processors (210). One or more processors included in the processor (210) may be circuitry such as a System on Chip (SoC), an Integrated Circuit (IC), etc. The processor (210) may execute instructions or commands stored in the memory (214) to perform a predetermined operation. In addition, the processor (210) controls the operation of components provided in the air conditioner (100). One or more processors included in the processor (210) may be a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an AP (Application Processor), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a graphics-only processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a VPU (Vision Processing Unit), an artificial intelligence-only processor such as an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), or a communication-only processor such as a CP (Communication Processor). When one or more processors included in the processor (210) are artificial intelligence-only processors, the artificial intelligence-only processor may be designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing a specific artificial intelligence model.

[0122] The processor (210) can write data to the memory (214) or read data stored in the memory (214), and in particular, process data according to predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models by executing a program or at least one instruction stored in the memory (214). Accordingly, the processor (210) can perform operations described in the following embodiments, and operations described as being performed by the air conditioner (100) or detailed components included in the air conditioner (100) in the following embodiments can be regarded as being performed by the processor (210) unless otherwise specifically described.

[0123] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can obtain at least one piece of sensing data by at least one sensor (220). In addition, the processor (210) can retrieve the attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) from data previously stored in the air conditioner (100). For example, the attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) may be stored in the memory (214) or obtained from a server (1220, see FIG. 12).

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) using at least one sensing data and attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212). In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can calculate efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) using at least one sensing data and attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can calculate initial performance data. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can calculate initial efficiency data.

[0125] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) may periodically update performance data and / or efficiency data. The processor (210) may repeatedly perform calculations of the performance data and / or efficiency data. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) may calculate the performance data and / or efficiency data in a first time period. In addition, the processor (210) may store the calculated performance data and / or efficiency data in the outdoor unit (102) or the indoor unit (104) in the first time period. The processor (210) may transmit the calculated performance data and / or efficiency data to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) in a second time period. When performance data and / or efficiency data calculated in the first time cycle are transmitted to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) in the second time cycle, the amount of data transmitted to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) is reduced compared to when the data is transmitted to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) in the first time cycle, and the amount of data that the air conditioner (100) must process can also be reduced.

[0126] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on periodically updated performance data and / or efficiency data. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on the performance data and / or efficiency data updated in a first time period. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on the performance data and / or efficiency data updated in a second time period.

[0127] The air conditioning module (212) can perform air conditioning operations. The air conditioning module (212) can adjust cooling, cooling intensity, heating, heating intensity, air volume, or air direction based on a control signal or drive signal input from the processor (210). The air conditioning module (212) can include a heat exchanger, a motor, an inverter, a fan, a filter, an airflow guide, or a wind door. The air conditioning module (212) has a heat exchanger and can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing a phase change (e.g., expansion or compression) of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger. For example, while the refrigerant expands in the heat exchanger, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air to cool the indoor space. While the refrigerant is compressed in the heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air to heat the indoor space.

[0128] The evaporator (212a) can evaporate the refrigerant. The evaporator (212a) may be an example of a heat exchanger. The evaporator (212a) may perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and an indoor space by utilizing a phase change of the refrigerant. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant may enter the evaporator (212a). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the refrigerant inside the evaporator (212a) evaporates, the refrigerant may absorb heat from the surrounding air. Additionally, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerant in a gaseous state may be discharged from the evaporator (212a). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the evaporator (212a) may be included in the indoor unit (104).

[0129] The compressor (212b) can compress the refrigerant. The compressor (212b) can compress the refrigerant and send it to the condenser (212c, see FIG. 4). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the compressor (212b) can change the refrigerant from a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous state into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the refrigerant from a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state can be discharged from the compressor (212b). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the compressor (212b) can be included in the outdoor unit (102).

[0130] The processor (210) can change the temperature setting value of the indoor unit (104) to adjust the set temperature. The processor (210) can adjust the motor rotation speed of the compressor (212b) to adjust the indoor temperature to adjust the set temperature. For example, when a user-set temperature is set by a user of the processor (210), the motor RPM (Revolutions per minute) can be adjusted according to the set temperature. If the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than the user-set temperature, the processor (210) can control the compressor (212b) motor RPM to increase. If the indoor temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than the user-set temperature, the processor (210) can decrease the compressor (212b) motor RPM or stop the compressor (212b) motor. The processor (210) can generate a control signal for adjusting the RPM of the compressor (212b) motor and output it to the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioning module (212) can adjust the RPM of the compressor (212b) motor according to the control signal of the processor (210), thereby controlling the degree of cooling of the air. By controlling the RPM of the compressor (212b) motor, the indoor temperature can be controlled to follow the user-set temperature. By increasing the RPM of the compressor (212b) motor, the air conditioning module (212) discharges airflow at a lower temperature than before into the room, thereby lowering the indoor temperature. In addition, by reducing the RPM of the compressor (212b) motor or stopping the compressor (212b) motor, the air conditioning module (212) discharges airflow at a higher temperature than before into the room, thereby increasing the indoor temperature.

[0131] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (210) can identify the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212). The processor (210) can adjust the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can control the air conditioning module (212) by changing the values ​​of the operating parameters. For example, the processor (210) can adjust the operating parameters so that the updated performance data reaches the maximum value. Additionally, for example, the processor (210) can adjust the operating parameters so that the updated efficiency data reaches the maximum value.

[0132] The memory (214) stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the air conditioner (100). The memory (214) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory (214) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. In addition, the memory (214) may correspond to a web storage or cloud server that performs a storage function on the Internet.

[0133] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioner control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] A method for controlling an air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be performed by an air conditioner (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 3, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and / or efficiency data based on sensing data and attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) in step S310.

[0136] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) even when the indoor temperature or outdoor temperature is not measured. For example, the air conditioner (100) can measure the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant to calculate the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data of the air conditioning module (212) using the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant. According to one embodiment, the air conditioner (110) can use one or more sensors (220) to measure the pressure or temperature of the refrigerant.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) by using performance data of the air conditioning module (212) and power consumption of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can use one or more sensors (220) to measure power consumption of the air conditioning module (212). In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can measure power consumption and current consumption of the air conditioning module (212) to obtain power consumption of the air conditioning module (212).

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can acquire at least one sensing data by at least one sensor (220). The sensing data can include at least one of an inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), an outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), a low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), a high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or power consumption of the air conditioning module (212). For example, the inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a) can be data measuring the temperature of the refrigerant at the inlet side of the evaporator (212a). The outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a) can be data measuring the temperature of the refrigerant at the outlet side of the evaporator (212a). In addition, for example, the low pressure of the air conditioning module (212) can be data measuring the evaporation pressure of the evaporator (212a) of the air conditioning module (212). The high pressure of the air conditioning module (212) may be data measuring the condensation pressure of the condenser (212c, see FIG. 4) of the air conditioning module (212). For example, the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) may be a value obtained by adding the power consumption of the indoor fan (212e, see FIG. 4), the power consumption of the outdoor fan (212d, see FIG. 4), and the power consumption of the compressor (212b).

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain the attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) may be stored in advance in the memory (214) of the air conditioner (100). The air conditioner (100) can refer to the stored attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) to calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212).

[0140] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) based on acquired sensing data and attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) using the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) and the difference value between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a).

[0141] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) using the displacement volume of the compressor (212b), the rotation speed of the compressor (212b), the density of the refrigerant, the volumetric efficiency of the compressor (212b), and the mechanical efficiency of the compressor (212b). Specifically, the air conditioner (100) can calculate the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) according to mathematical equation 1.

[0142]

[0143] At this time, The refrigerant flow rate (kg / s) of the evaporator (212a), represents the exclusion volume (cc) of the compressor (212b). represents the rotation speed (rps) of the compressor (212b). is the density of the refrigerant (kg / ) is indicated. represents the volumetric efficiency of the compressor (212b). represents the mechanical efficiency of the compressor (212b).

[0144] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate a difference value between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) using sensing data. Specifically, the air conditioner (100) can calculate a difference value between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) according to mathematical expression 2.

[0145]

[0146] At this time, represents the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a). represents the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a). represents the difference between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a).

[0147] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) according to mathematical expression 3.

[0148]

[0149] At this time, represents the performance data of the air conditioning module (212).

[0150] The air conditioner (100) can calculate the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) according to mathematical formula 4.

[0151]

[0152] At this time, COP represents the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212). W represents the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212).

[0153] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may store refrigerant flow rate values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) in the form of a lookup table. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may include refrigerant flow rate values ​​according to at least one of an evaporation temperature, a condensation temperature, or an exhaust volume value of the compressor (212b) of the air conditioning module (212). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may identify the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) using the first lookup table. In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may use at least one sensing data to identify the refrigerant flow rate of the air conditioning module (212) by referring to the first lookup table.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data of the air conditioning module (212) even when using the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) determined using the first lookup table.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may store power consumption values ​​of the air conditioning module (212) in the form of a lookup table. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may include power consumption values ​​according to at least one of an evaporation temperature of the air conditioning module (212), a condensation temperature, or an exhaust volume value of the compressor (212b). The air conditioner (100) may identify the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) by referring to the first lookup table.

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) even when using the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) determined using the first lookup table.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may be stored in memory (214) or may be obtained from a server (1220, see FIG. 12).

[0158] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, one outdoor unit (102) may be connected to a plurality of indoor units (104) via refrigerant pipes. In this case, performance data and / or efficiency data for the plurality of indoor units may be different.

[0159] Next, the air conditioner (100) may periodically update performance data and / or efficiency data in step S330. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may periodically recalculate the performance data and / or efficiency data. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may periodically change the performance data and / or efficiency data.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data and / or efficiency data in a first time period. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can store the calculated performance data and / or efficiency data in an outdoor unit (102) or an indoor unit (104) in a first time period. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can transmit the calculated performance data and / or efficiency data to a server (1220, see FIG. 12) in a second time period.

[0161] Next, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on periodically updated performance data and / or efficiency data at S350. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212).

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can identify the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can adjust the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) by changing the values ​​of the operating parameters. For example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust the operating parameters so that the updated performance data reaches the maximum value. Additionally, for example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust the operating parameters so that the updated efficiency data reaches the maximum value.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on performance data and / or efficiency data updated in a first time period. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on performance data and / or efficiency data updated in a second time period.

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, low updated performance data may indicate that the performance data value is below a threshold performance data value. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may control the air conditioning module (212) to obtain performance data close to the target performance data.

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) to increase the performance data when the updated performance data is low. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the updated performance data approaches the target performance data.

[0166] For example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the target evaporation pressure targeted by the air conditioning module (212) is lowered. Also, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the target condensation pressure targeted by the air conditioning module (212) is increased. Also, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the frequency of the compressor (212b) of the air conditioning module (212) is increased. Also, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the air volume of the air conditioning module (212) is increased.

[0167] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, low updated efficiency data may indicate that the efficiency data value is below a threshold efficiency data value. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may control the air conditioning module (212) to obtain efficiency data close to the target efficiency data.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) when the updated efficiency data is low. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the updated efficiency data approaches the target efficiency data.

[0169] For example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the target evaporation pressure of the air conditioning module (212) is lowered. Furthermore, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the target condensation pressure of the air conditioning module (212) is increased. Furthermore, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the frequency of the compressor (212b) of the air conditioning module (212) is increased. Furthermore, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the air volume of the air conditioning module (212) is increased. Furthermore, for example, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the measured power consumption is decreased.

[0170] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a sensing data acquisition structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain at least one sensing data by at least one sensor (220).

[0172] The temperature sensor (220a) may be a sensor that detects the temperature of the indoor unit (104) or the outdoor unit (102) of the air conditioner (100). Here, 220a may be a symbol that collectively refers to the first temperature sensor (220a1) and the second temperature sensor (220a2). The temperature sensor (220a) may measure temperature by changing its resistance value according to temperature. For example, the temperature sensor (220a) may include an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor. The temperature sensor (220a) may include a circuit including a resistor.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 4, the air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of temperature sensors (220a). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of temperature sensors (220a) may be disposed at different points to measure the temperatures of the different points. For example, a first temperature sensor (220a1) may be disposed at the inlet of the evaporator (212a) to measure the inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a). A second temperature sensor (220a2) may be disposed at the outlet of the evaporator (212a) to measure the outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a). In addition, the temperature sensor (220a) may be disposed at the indoor unit (104) to measure the temperature of indoor air. The temperature sensor (220a) may be disposed at the outdoor unit (102) to measure the temperature of outdoor air.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain the evaporator (212a) inlet temperature by measuring the temperature of the refrigerant at the inlet of the evaporator (212a). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain the evaporator (212a) outlet temperature by measuring the temperature of the refrigerant at the outlet of the evaporator (212a).

[0175] Referring to FIG. 4, the air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of pressure sensors (220b). Here, 220b is a symbol collectively referring to a first pressure sensor (220b1) and a second pressure sensor (220b2). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of pressure sensors (220b) may be disposed at different points to measure pressures at different points. For example, the first pressure sensor (220b1) may be disposed at the evaporator (212a) to measure the evaporation pressure of the air conditioning module (212). The second pressure sensor (220b2) may be disposed at the condenser (212c) to measure the condensation pressure of the air conditioning module (212).

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain an evaporation pressure by measuring the pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator (212a). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain a condensation pressure by measuring the pressure of the refrigerant in the condenser (212c).

[0177] Referring to FIG. 4, the air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of current sensors (220c) and a plurality of voltage sensors (220d). Here, 220c is a symbol collectively referring to a first current sensor (220c1), a second current sensor (220c2), and a third current sensor (220c3). In addition, 220d is a symbol collectively referring to a first voltage sensor (220d1), a second voltage sensor (220d2), and a third voltage sensor (220d3). The plurality of current sensors (220c) and the plurality of voltage sensors (220d) may be arranged at different points to measure current and voltage at different points. For example, the first current sensor (220c1) and the first voltage sensor (220d1) may be arranged at a compressor (212b) to measure current and voltage of a compressor (212b) motor. The second current sensor (220c2) and the second voltage sensor (220d2) are arranged on the outdoor fan (212d) and can measure the current and voltage of the outdoor fan (212d). The third current sensor (220c) and the third voltage sensor (220d) are arranged on the indoor fan (212e) and can measure the current and voltage of the indoor fan (212e).

[0178] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of power sensors (not shown). The plurality of power sensors may be positioned at different locations to measure power at different locations. For example, a first power sensor may be positioned at a compressor (212b) to measure power of the compressor (212b) motor. A second power sensor may be positioned at an outdoor fan (212d) to measure power of the outdoor fan (212d). A third power sensor may be positioned at an indoor fan (212e) to measure power of the indoor fan (212e).

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power consumption of the outdoor fan (212d) of the air conditioner (100) can be obtained by referring to a table showing power consumption values ​​according to the rotation speed of the outdoor fan (212d) motor. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power consumption of the indoor fan (212e) of the air conditioner (100) can be obtained by referring to a table showing power consumption values ​​according to the rotation speed of the indoor fan (212e) motor.

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may include power consumption values ​​according to the rotation speed of the outdoor fan (212d) motor. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lookup table may include power consumption values ​​according to the rotation speed of the indoor fan (212e) motor.

[0181] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may include a plurality of humidity sensors (not shown). The plurality of humidity sensors may be positioned at different locations to measure humidity at different locations. For example, a first humidity sensor may be positioned at the outdoor unit (102) to measure outdoor humidity. A second humidity sensor may be positioned at the indoor unit (104) to measure indoor humidity.

[0182] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of entering a freezing operation mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] The performance data of the air conditioning module (212) and / or the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may decrease due to reasons such as ice accumulating on the outdoor unit (102) of the air conditioner (100). In this case, the air conditioner (100) may enter a defrosting operation mode.

[0184] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the defrost operation mode may be an operation mode for removing ice or frost that may occur in the outdoor unit (102) of the air conditioner (100). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, when entering the defrost operation mode, the air conditioner (100) may remove ice or frost in the outdoor unit (102) to increase heat exchange efficiency.

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can identify whether to enter the defrosting operation mode using at least one of performance data or efficiency data. In this case, regardless of the temperature or humidity of the outdoor or indoor space, the air conditioner (100) can determine whether to enter the defrosting operation mode within the air conditioner (100). For example, even if the ambient air temperature of the outdoor unit (102) or the ambient humidity of the outdoor unit (102) are not acquired, the air conditioner (100) can determine whether to enter the defrosting operation mode.

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, due to ice or frost forming in the outdoor unit (102) of the air conditioner (100), the performance data of the air conditioning module (212) may be significantly degraded compared to the initial performance data. In addition, the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may be significantly degraded compared to the initial efficiency data. Therefore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may utilize the initial performance data or the initial efficiency data to identify whether the air conditioner (100) has entered the defrosting operation mode.

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may enter a defrosting operation mode when the performance data deteriorates by exceeding the first threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 5, in operation S510, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and / or efficiency data. The air conditioner (100) can calculate initial performance data and initial efficiency data.

[0189] In operation S520, the air conditioner (100) can compare initial performance data with updated performance data. Additionally, the air conditioner (100) can compare initial efficiency data with updated efficiency data.

[0190] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may enter a defrost operation mode when the difference between the initial performance data and the updated performance data exceeds a first threshold performance data (e.g., 30% of the initial performance data). The first threshold performance data may be predetermined. For example, the first threshold performance data may be stored in the memory (214). Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may enter a defrost operation mode when the difference between the initial efficiency data and the updated efficiency data exceeds the first threshold efficiency data (e.g., 30% of the initial efficiency data). The first threshold efficiency data may be predetermined. For example, the first threshold efficiency data may be stored in the memory (214).

[0191] In operation S530, the air conditioner (100) can enter the defrosting operation mode. After the air conditioner (100) enters the defrosting operation mode, the air conditioner (100) can perform the defrosting operation. Upon entering the defrosting operation mode, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) to perform a defrosting operation, such as removing ice from the outdoor unit (102).

[0192] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) to change the flow of refrigerant. For example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust the target evaporation pressure of the air conditioning module (212). Additionally, for example, the air conditioner (100) can adjust the target condensation pressure of the air conditioning module (212).

[0193] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the defrosting operation mode can be entered using periodically updated performance data and / or efficiency data. Accordingly, the air conditioner (100) can appropriately enter the defrosting operation mode when the defrosting operation mode is required. In this case, the air conditioner (100) can avoid unnecessary defrosting operation.

[0194] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a process for determining a failure of an air conditioning module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0195] The performance data of the air conditioning module (212) and / or the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may decrease due to reasons such as a refrigerant leak in the air conditioner (100), contamination of the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger, or wear of the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty when the performance data of the air conditioning module (212) and / or the efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) decreases.

[0196] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty if the performance data is lowered by exceeding the second threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data. The second threshold performance data may be predetermined. For example, the second threshold performance data may be stored in the memory (214). Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty if the efficiency data is lowered by exceeding the second threshold efficiency data compared to the initial efficiency data. The second threshold efficiency data may be predetermined. For example, the second threshold efficiency data may be stored in the memory (214).

[0197] Referring to FIG. 6, in operation S610, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and / or efficiency data. The air conditioner (100) can calculate initial performance data and initial efficiency data.

[0198] In operation S620, the air conditioner (100) may compare the initial performance data with the updated performance data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty if the initial performance data and the updated performance data differ by more than a second threshold performance data (e.g., 40% of the initial performance data).

[0199] In operation S630, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may compare initial efficiency data with updated efficiency data. If the difference between the initial efficiency data and the updated efficiency data exceeds a second threshold efficiency data (e.g., 40% of the initial efficiency data), the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty.

[0200] In operation S640, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the air conditioner (100) determines that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty, the air conditioner (100) may display performance data and / or efficiency data. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may display updated performance data (650) and / or efficiency data (660) on an external device (1210). By displaying the performance data and / or efficiency data, the air conditioner (100) may enable a user to maintain the air conditioner (100).

[0201] Referring to FIG. 6, a graphical interface (650) (hereinafter, graphical interface (650)) for displaying updated performance data (660) and efficiency data (670) of an air conditioner (100) is exemplarily illustrated. According to one embodiment, the graphical interface (650) may include various elements. For example, the updated performance data (660) and the updated efficiency data (670) may be included in the graphical interface (650) in various forms (e.g., numbers, bar graphs, line graphs, etc.). In addition, for example, performance data over time and efficiency data over time may be displayed in various forms (e.g., numbers, bar graphs, line graphs, etc.) on the graphical interface (650). In addition, when the air conditioner (100) is determined to be faulty, a fault notification message (680), such as, for example, 'The performance and efficiency of the device have deteriorated. Please check the status,' may be displayed on the graphical interface (650).

[0202] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an operation in which year-round performance data and year-round efficiency data are displayed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 7, the air conditioner (100) can display an average value (710) of annual performance data and an average value (720) of annual efficiency data.

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data for the third hour may represent an average value of the performance data for the third hour. For example, the performance data for the third hour may represent an average value of the performance data throughout the year. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the efficiency data for the third hour may represent an average value of the efficiency data for the third hour. For example, the efficiency data for the third hour may represent an average value of the efficiency data throughout the year.

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can calculate performance data for a third time period and / or efficiency data for a third time period. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can display the performance data and / or efficiency data for the third time period. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can display the performance data and / or efficiency data for the third time period on an external device (1210).

[0206] Referring to FIG. 7, a graphical interface (700) (hereinafter, referred to as the graphical interface (700)) for displaying performance data and / or efficiency data for a third time period of an air conditioner (100) is exemplarily illustrated. According to one embodiment, the graphical interface (700) may include various elements. For example, performance data (710) for a third time period and efficiency data (720) for a third time period may be included. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data (710) and efficiency data (720) for the third time period may be displayed in various forms (e.g., numbers, bar graphs, line graphs, etc.). For example, the performance data over time and the efficiency data over time may be displayed in various forms (e.g., numbers, bar graphs, line graphs, etc.).

[0207] By displaying the performance data and / or efficiency data for the third time period of the air conditioner (100), the user of the air conditioner (100) can visually check the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212). The user can control the air conditioning module (212) by checking the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212). For example, if the performance data and / or efficiency data for the third time period is low, the user can control the air conditioning module (212) by adjusting the set temperature.

[0208] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can compare the performance data for a third time period with the initial performance data. The air conditioner (100) can compare the efficiency data for the third time period with the initial efficiency data. If the difference between the initial performance data and the performance data for the third time period exceeds a third threshold performance data (e.g., 10% of the initial performance data), the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can adjust the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212) so that the efficiency data increases. If the difference between the initial efficiency data and the efficiency data for the third time period exceeds a third threshold efficiency data (e.g., 10% of the initial efficiency data), the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can adjust the operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212) so that the efficiency data increases.

[0209] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a machine learning model outputting operating parameters according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain at least one operating parameter of the air conditioning module (212) using a machine learning model (810). The air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) using the at least one operating parameter.

[0211] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the machine learning model (810) may receive at least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, performance data, or efficiency data.

[0212] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the machine learning model (810) can output operating parameters. The operating parameters output from the machine learning model (810) can include, for example, at least one of an indoor fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, an outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, a compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, an updated set temperature, a target evaporation pressure, or a target condensation pressure.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 8, the machine learning model (810) can learn the correlation between input data (802) including at least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, performance data, or efficiency data, and output data (804) including at least one of indoor fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, updated set temperature, target evaporation pressure, or target condensation pressure.

[0214] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the machine learning model (810) can be machine-learned using learning data including a plurality of input data (802) including at least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, performance data, or efficiency data, and output data (804) including at least one of indoor fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, updated set temperature, target evaporation pressure, or target condensation pressure.

[0215] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a machine learning model (810) may be pre-learned and implemented in an on-device form installed in an air conditioner (100). The processor (210) of the air conditioner (100) may execute the machine learning model (810) and perform the operation of the machine learning model (810).

[0216] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the machine learning model (810) can learn correlations within the air conditioner (100) even when not connected to a server (1220, see FIG. 12). For example, the air conditioner (100) can further reinforce the machine learning model (810) using data additionally collected from the air conditioner (100).

[0217] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can determine at least one operating parameter from input data (802) using a learned machine learning model (810). In addition, the air conditioner (100) can output at least one operating parameter.

[0218] The artificial intelligence-related functions according to the present disclosure are operated through a processor (210) and a memory (214). The processor (210) may be composed of one or more processors. In this case, one or more processors may be a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, an AP, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a graphics-only processor such as a GPU, a VPU (Vision Processing Unit), or an artificial intelligence-only processor such as an NPU. One or more processors control input data to be processed according to predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models stored in the memory. Alternatively, when one or more processors are artificial intelligence-only processors, the artificial intelligence-only processor may be designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing a specific artificial intelligence model.

[0219] The predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models are characterized by being created through learning. Here, being created through learning means that the basic artificial intelligence model is trained using a learning algorithm using a plurality of learning data, thereby creating a predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence model set to perform a desired characteristic (or purpose). This learning may be performed on the device itself on which the artificial intelligence according to the present disclosure is performed, or may be performed through a separate server and / or system. Examples of the learning algorithm include, but are not limited to, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning.

[0220] An artificial intelligence model may be composed of multiple neural network layers. Each of the multiple neural network layers has multiple weight values, and performs neural network operations through operations between the operation results of the previous layer and the multiple weights. The multiple weights of the multiple neural network layers may be optimized based on the learning results of the artificial intelligence model. For example, the multiple weights may be updated so that the loss value or cost value obtained from the artificial intelligence model is reduced or minimized during the learning process. The artificial neural network may include a deep neural network (DNN), and examples thereof include, but are not limited to, a convolutional neural network (CNN), a deep neural network (DNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), or deep Q-networks.

[0221] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an operation in which performance data and efficiency data are displayed on an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can cause updated performance data and / or efficiency data to be displayed on an external device (1210). The external device (1210) can display the updated performance data and / or efficiency data.

[0223] A digital twin can represent a virtual model that reproduces the operation or status of an air conditioner (100) in real time in a digital space. The digital twin can provide information that can be used for simulation, prediction, monitoring, or control by reflecting the structure, operation, status, or environment of the actual air conditioner (100). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an external device (1210) can provide information in the form of a digital twin that virtually represents the air conditioner (100). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (1210) can provide information in the form of a digital twin that provides operation information of the air conditioner (100).

[0224] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can monitor updated performance data and / or efficiency data. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an external device (1210) can monitor the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212). The external device (1210) can analyze the performance data and / or efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) to provide information in the form of a digital twin.

[0225] Referring to FIG. 9, the external device (1210) can display at least one of the operating mode (910), set temperature (920), air volume (930), updated performance data (940), updated efficiency data (950), operating time (960), or power consumption (970) of the air conditioner (100).

[0226] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can create a database of sensing data, attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212), performance data, and / or efficiency data. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can collect sensing data, performance data, and / or efficiency data according to attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212), and create a database.

[0227] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a database may be stored and managed in an air conditioner (100). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may transmit the database to a server (1220, see FIG. 12) or an external device (1210). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the database may be stored and managed in the server (1220, see FIG. 12) or an external device (1210).

[0228] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can store performance data and / or efficiency data in a database and use it when controlling the air conditioning module (212). For example, using the databased performance data and / or efficiency data, the air conditioner (100) can predict a point in time when the performance data and / or efficiency data is expected to decrease below a reference value. The air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) so that the performance data and / or efficiency data does not decrease.

[0229] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a process for calculating a fee for the power consumption of an outdoor unit consumed by each of a plurality of indoor units according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0230] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) may have one outdoor unit (102) connected to two or more indoor units (104) via refrigerant pipes. Refrigerants discharged from a plurality of indoor units (104) may be configured to be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit (102). For example, a plurality of indoor units (104) may be directly connected in parallel to one outdoor unit (102) via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0231] The plurality of indoor units (104) can be operated independently according to the operating mode set by the user. That is, some of the plurality of indoor units (104) can be operated in cooling mode, while others can be operated in heating mode. In this case, the power consumption of each of the plurality of indoor units (104) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) can be different.

[0232] Referring to FIG. 10, in operation S1010, the air conditioner (100) can obtain the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) can be obtained using the power consumption of the compressor (212b) motor and the power consumption of the outdoor unit fan (212d). For example, the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) can be obtained by adding the power consumption of the compressor (212b) motor and the power consumption of the outdoor unit fan (212d).

[0233] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain the power consumption Wo of the outdoor unit (102).

[0234] In operation S1020, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data for each of the plurality of indoor units (104). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data of the indoor units may represent the cooling or heating capacity of the indoor units. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the performance data of the indoor units may represent the amount of thermal energy transferred by the refrigerant moving through the indoor units.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, three indoor units (104a, 104b, 104c) may be connected to one outdoor unit (102). The air conditioner (100) may obtain performance data Q1 of the first indoor unit (104a), performance data Q2 of the second indoor unit (104b), and performance data Q3 of the third indoor unit (104c).

[0236] In operation S1030, the air conditioner (100) can calculate the power consumption ratio of each indoor unit (104) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) based on each of the acquired performance data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure according to the present disclosure, the power consumption ratio (1032) of each outdoor unit (102) for each indoor unit (104) can be proportional to the performance data of each indoor unit (104). Here, 1032 is a symbol that collectively refers to the power consumption (1032a) consumed by the first indoor unit (104a), the power consumption (1032b) consumed by the second indoor unit (104b), and the power consumption (1032c) consumed by the third indoor unit (104c), among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102).

[0237] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) consumes power (1032a) of the first indoor unit (104a) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102). can be calculated. The air conditioner (100) consumes power (1032b) of the second indoor unit (104b) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102). can be calculated. The air conditioner (100) consumes power (1032c) of the third indoor unit (104c) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102). can be calculated.

[0238] In operation S1040, the air conditioner (100) can distribute a fee for the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) consumed by each indoor unit (104) based on the power consumption ratio consumed by each indoor unit (104).

[0239] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can distribute a fee for the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) to each indoor unit (104) by using the power consumption (1032) consumed by each of the plurality of indoor units (104). In one embodiment of the present disclosure according to the present disclosure, the power consumption usage fee (1042) of the outdoor unit (102) for each indoor unit (104) can be proportional to the performance data of each indoor unit (104). Here, the power consumption usage fee (1042) is a symbol that collectively refers to a first fee (1042a) charged to a first indoor unit (104a), a second fee (1042b) charged to a second indoor unit (104b), and a third fee (1042c) charged to a third indoor unit (104c). Additionally, in one embodiment of the present disclosure according to the present disclosure, the power consumption usage fee (1042) of the outdoor unit (102) for each indoor unit (104) may be proportional to the power consumption (1032) of each indoor unit (104).

[0240] Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing the structure of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0241] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) may include a sensor, a processor (210), an air conditioning module (212), a memory (214), and a communication module (230). In FIG. 11, descriptions overlapping with those in FIG. 2 are omitted, and differences from the embodiment of FIG. 2 are mainly described.

[0242] The processor (210) controls the overall operation of the air conditioner (100). The processor (210) may be implemented with one or more processors (210). The processor (210) may execute instructions or commands stored in the memory (214) to perform a predetermined operation. In addition, the processor (210) controls the operation of components provided in the air conditioner (100).

[0243] The air conditioning module (212) performs air conditioning operations. The air conditioning module (212) controls cooling, cooling intensity, heating, heating intensity, air volume, etc. based on a control signal or drive signal input from the processor (210). The air conditioning module (212) may include a heat exchanger, a motor, an inverter, a fan, a filter, etc. In addition, the air conditioning module (212) may include an outdoor unit (102), and the outdoor unit (102) may include a compressor (212b). The processor (210) may set the compressor (212b) frequency of the compressor (212b) of the outdoor unit (102) based on a difference between the indoor temperature and the set temperature.

[0244] The memory (214) stores various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0245] At least one sensor (220) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (220a), a pressure sensor (220b), a current sensor (220c), a voltage sensor (220d), a power sensor (not shown), or a humidity sensor (not shown).

[0246] The communication module (230) can communicate with at least one external device (1210) wired or wirelessly. The communication module (230) can communicate with a server (1220, see FIG. 12) wired or wirelessly. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (230) communicates wirelessly with a remote controller. The communication module (230) can receive a power on / off signal, a temperature setting signal, an operation mode selection signal, a blower strength selection signal, a sleep reservation signal, a sleep mode control signal, a reservation operation setting signal, or a wind direction setting signal from the remote controller. The communication module (230) can transmit status information of the air conditioner (100) to the remote controller in order to synchronize the status information of the remote controller and the air conditioner (100).

[0247] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (230) can communicate with a server (1220, see FIG. 12) via a network. The communication module (230) can connect to the network via an access point (AP, see FIG. 12) and communicate with the server (1220, see FIG. 12). In addition, the communication module (230) can receive a power on / off signal, a temperature setting signal, an operation mode selection signal, a blower strength selection signal, a sleep reservation signal, a sleep mode setting signal, a reservation operation setting signal, a wind direction setting signal, etc. from the server (1220, see FIG. 12). The communication module (230) can transmit status information of the air conditioner (100) to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) in order to synchronize the status information of the air conditioner (100) with the server (1220, see FIG. 12). In addition, the communication module (230) can receive the operation mode or setting information of the air conditioner (100) set using a user terminal, etc. from the server (1220, see FIG. 12).

[0248] The processor (210) can control the operation of each component of the air conditioner (100) according to a control signal received from an access point (AP) or server (1220, see FIG. 12) through a communication module (230).

[0249] In addition, the communication module (230) can receive updated performance data and / or efficiency data from the server (1220, see FIG. 12) via an access point (AP). The communication module (230) can receive initial performance data and / or initial efficiency data from the server (1220, see FIG. 12). In addition, the communication module (230) can receive a control signal for controlling the air conditioning module (212) from the server (1220, see FIG. 12). For example, the communication module (230) can receive operating parameters, etc. from the server (1220, see FIG. 12). The communication module (230) can receive a signal from the server (1220, see FIG. 12) that determines whether the air conditioning module (212) will enter the defrosting mode. The communication module (230) can receive a signal from the server (1220, see FIG. 12) that determines whether the air conditioning module (212) is faulty.

[0250] Additionally, the communication module (230) can transmit performance data and / or efficiency data to the server. The communication module (230) can transmit the acquired performance data and / or efficiency data to the server (1220, see FIG. 12) at a second time cycle. The communication module (230) can transmit sensing data, attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212), performance data and / or efficiency data to the server (1220, see FIG. 12).

[0251] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (230) can communicate with the outdoor unit (102). For example, the communication module (230) can communicate with the outdoor unit (102) using RS-485 serial communication.

[0252] The communication module (230) may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). In addition, the communication module (230) may perform short-range communication, and may use, for example, Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), near-field communication, WLAN (Wi-Fi), Zigbee, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), UWB (ultrawideband), Ant+ communication, etc. In addition, for example, the communication module (230) may perform long-range communication, and may communicate with an external device (1210, see FIG. 12) via, for example, a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN).

[0253] Additionally, for example, the communication module (230) can utilize mobile communication and transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server (1220, see FIG. 12) on a mobile communication network.

[0254] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module (230) is connected to an access point (AP) in the home via Wi-Fi communication. The communication module (230) can communicate with an external device (1210) via the access point (AP).

[0255] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an air conditioner, an external device, and a server according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0256] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) communicates with an external device (1210) and a server (1220) via a communication module (230). The air conditioner (100) may be connected to another home appliance, an external device (1210), or a server (1220) via a network (NET). The outdoor unit (102) may be connected to the indoor unit (104) via 485 communication.

[0257] The server (1220) can manage user account information and information about the air conditioner (100) connected to the user account. For example, a user can access the server (1220) via an external device (1210) and create a user account. The user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server (1220) can register the air conditioner (100) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server (1220) can register the air conditioner (100) by connecting identification information (e.g., serial number or MAC address) of the air conditioner (100) to the user account.

[0258] The external device (1210) may include a communication module (230) capable of communicating with the air conditioner (100) and the server (1220), a user interface for receiving user input or outputting information to the user, at least one processor (210) for controlling the operation of the external device (1210), and at least one memory (214) storing a program for controlling the operation of the external device (1210).

[0259] The external device (1210) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The external device (1210) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable telephone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, etc., for example.

[0260] A program (e.g., an application) for controlling the air conditioner (100) may be stored in the memory (214) of the external device (1210). The external device (1210) may be sold with the application for controlling the air conditioner (100) installed, or may be sold without the application installed. If the external device (1210) is sold without the application for controlling the air conditioner (100) installed, the user may download the application from an external server (1220) that provides the application and install it on the external device (1210).

[0261] A user can control an air conditioner (100) using an application installed in an external device (1210). For example, when a user executes an application installed in an external device (1210), identification information of an air conditioner (100) connected to the same user account as the external device (1210) may appear in an application execution window. The user can perform desired control of the air conditioner (100) through the application execution window. When a user inputs a control command for the air conditioner (100) through the application execution window, the external device (1210) may transmit the control command directly to the air conditioner (100) through a short-range network, or may transmit the control command to the air conditioner (100) via a server (1220).

[0262] The application of the external device (1210) can receive various user inputs for controlling the air conditioner (100). The application provides a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various user inputs and receives user inputs through the GUI. The external device (1210) communicates with the server (1220) and updates status information of the air conditioner (100) and provides it to the application. In addition, the external device (1210) communicates with the server (1220) and transmits user inputs received through the application to the air conditioner (100).

[0263] The application can receive a power-off signal or a shutdown reservation signal from the air conditioner (100). Furthermore, the application can receive a reservation setting signal and user input for setting a reservation end time. Furthermore, the application can receive a sleep mode setting signal and user input for setting a reservation end time. Furthermore, the application can receive user input for setting a noise reduction mode. Furthermore, the application can receive user input for setting an automatic drying function. Furthermore, the application can receive user input for setting a wind-free mode.

[0264] Additionally, the application may receive user input for selecting a custom mode. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the application may receive user input for setting operating parameters of the air conditioning module (212).

[0265] A network (NET) can include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, while wireless networks can include any network that transmits and receives signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks can be interconnected.

[0266] A network (NET) may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a wireless personal area network (WPAN) that does not use an access point. Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth™ (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), and Z-Wave.

[0267] An access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which an air conditioner (100) and an external device (1210) are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server (1220) is connected. The air conditioner (100) or an external device (1210) can be connected to the server (1220) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0268] An AP may include a device that enables devices to connect using Wi-Fi-related standards in a computer network.

[0269] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the AP may include a hardware-implemented AP and a software-implemented AP.

[0270] For example, an AP can relay data between wireless devices and wired devices on a network. However, this is not limited to this; an AP can also relay data between wired devices or between wireless devices. Meanwhile, an AP can also be referred to as a relay device.

[0271] The access point (AP) can communicate with the air conditioner (100) and external devices (1210) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi™, IEEE 802.11) and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication.

[0272] The air conditioner (100) can transmit information about its operation or status to the server (1220) via a network (NET). For example, the air conditioner (100) can transmit information about its operation or status to the server (1220) via Wi-Fi™ (IEEE 802.11) communication.

[0273] If the air conditioner (100) is not equipped with a Wi-Fi communication module (230), the air conditioner (100) can transmit information about its operation or status to the server (1220) through another home appliance having a Wi-Fi communication module (230). For example, if the air conditioner (100) transmits information about its operation or status to another home appliance through a short-range wireless network (e.g., BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication), the other home appliance can transmit information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the server (1220). In addition, for example, if the air conditioner (100) is not equipped with a Wi-Fi communication module (230), the air conditioner (100) can be connected to a communication relay device by a wire and perform Wi-Fi communication and 485 communication through the communication relay device.

[0274] The air conditioner (100) may provide information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the server (1220) with prior approval from the user. Information transmission to the server (1220) may be performed when a request is received from the server (1220), when a specific event occurs in the air conditioner (100), or may be performed periodically or in real time.

[0275] When information on the operation or status is received from the air conditioner (100), the server (1220) can update information previously stored in relation to the air conditioner (100). The server (1220) can transmit information on the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to an external device (1210) via a network (NET).

[0276] The server (1220) can transmit information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the external device (1210) when a request is received from the external device (1210). For example, when a user runs an application connected to the server (1220) on the external device (1210), the external device (1210) can request and receive information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) from the server (1220) through the application. When information regarding the operation or status is received from the air conditioner (100), the server (1220) can transmit information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the external device (1210) in real time. The server (1220) can also periodically transmit information regarding the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the external device (1210). The external device (1210) can transmit information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) to the user by displaying information about the operation or status of the air conditioner (100) in the application execution window.

[0277] The air conditioner (100) can obtain various information from the server (1220) and provide the obtained information to the user. In addition, the air conditioner (100) can receive a file for updating pre-installed software or data related to pre-installed software from the server (1220), and based on the received file, update the pre-installed software or data related to pre-installed software.

[0278] The air conditioner (100) can operate according to a control command received from the server (1220). For example, if the air conditioner (100) has obtained prior approval from a user to operate according to the control command of the server (1220) even without user input, the air conditioner (100) can operate according to the control command received from the server (1220). The control command received from the server (1220) may include, but is not limited to, a control command input by the user through an external device (1210) or a control command generated by the server (1220) based on preset conditions.

[0279] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) can store the learning result of learning power consumption according to environmental conditions. The server (1220) can store the learning result of power consumption according to environmental conditions in the user account in which the air conditioner (100) is registered. When learning is performed by the air conditioner (100), the server (1220) can receive the learning result of power consumption according to environmental conditions from the air conditioner (100) and store the received learning result in the user account in which the air conditioner (100) is registered. The server (1220) can also store the installation location, installation conditions, etc. of the air conditioner (100) corresponding to the learning result. When the server (1220) learns power consumption according to environmental conditions, the server (1220) can store the learned power consumption according to environmental conditions in the user account in which the air conditioner (100) is registered.

[0280] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an air conditioner control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0281] Referring to FIG. 13, in operation S1302, the air conditioner (100) can obtain sensing data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can transmit the sensing data to the server (1220). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) can receive the sensing data from the air conditioner (100). In addition, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can transmit the sensing data to an external device (1210). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (1210) can receive the sensing data from the air conditioner (100).

[0282] In operation S1304, the air conditioner (100) may calculate performance data and / or efficiency data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) may calculate performance data and / or efficiency data using sensing data.

[0283] In operation S1306, the air conditioner (100) can transmit performance data and / or efficiency data to the server (1220). The server (1220) can receive performance data and / or efficiency data from the air conditioner (100).

[0284] In operation S1308, the server (1220) may update performance data and / or efficiency data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) may calculate performance data and / or efficiency data. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) may store the performance data and / or efficiency data. The server (1220) may update the stored performance data and / or efficiency data.

[0285] In operation S1310, the server (1220) may transmit updated performance data and / or efficiency data to the air conditioner (100). The air conditioner (100) may receive the updated performance data and / or efficiency data from the server (1220). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) may not perform operation S1310 of transmitting the updated performance data and / or efficiency data to the air conditioner (100).

[0286] In operation S1312, the server (1220) may transmit updated performance data and / or efficiency data to an external device (1210). The external device (1210) may receive updated performance data and / or efficiency data from the server (1220).

[0287] In operation S1314, the external device (1210) may display performance data and / or efficiency data. Additionally, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (1210) may display sensing data.

[0288] In operation S1316, the server (1220) may determine operating parameters of the air conditioner (100). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) may calculate, determine, or identify the operating parameters.

[0289] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) can execute a machine learning model (810). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (1220) can use the machine learning model (810) to calculate, determine, or identify operating parameters of the air conditioner (100).

[0290] In operation S1318, the server (1220) can transmit operating parameters to the air conditioner (100). The air conditioner (100) can receive operating parameters from the server (1220).

[0291] In operation S1320, the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on the operating parameters.

[0292] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner (100) is provided. The air conditioner (100) includes an air conditioning module (212) including at least one sensor, an evaporator (212a) and a compressor (212b), a memory (214) storing instructions, and at least one processor (210) including processing circuitry. By individually or collectively executing the instructions by the at least one processor (210), the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) based on at least one sensing data obtained by the at least one sensor and an attribute value of the air conditioning module (212). By individually or collectively executing the above instructions by the at least one processor (210), the air conditioner (100) can periodically update the performance data and the efficiency data. By individually or collectively executing the above instructions by the at least one processor (210), the air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

[0293] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain at least one sensing data including at least one of an inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), an outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), a low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), a high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) by using the at least one sensor. The air conditioner (100) can calculate a refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a), an outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a), and an inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) based on the obtained at least one sensing data and the attribute value of the air conditioning module (212). The air conditioner (100) can obtain the performance data based on the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) and the difference between the outlet enthalpy and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a). The air conditioner (100) can obtain the efficiency data based on the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) and the performance data.

[0294] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the attribute value of the air conditioning module (212) may include at least one of the excluded volume of the compressor (212b), the volumetric efficiency of the compressor (212b), or the mechanical efficiency of the compressor (212b).

[0295] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can determine the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) using the at least one sensing data and the first lookup table. The air conditioner (100) can obtain the performance data based on the determined refrigerant flow rate. The air conditioner (100) can determine the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) using the first lookup table. The air conditioner (100) can obtain the efficiency data based on the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) and the performance data.

[0296] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can acquire the performance data and the efficiency data in a first time period. The air conditioner (100) can transmit the acquired performance data and the acquired efficiency data to the server (1220) in a second time period.

[0297] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can control at least one of the frequency of the compressor (212b), the air volume of the air conditioning module (212), the target evaporation pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or the target condensation pressure of the air conditioning module (212) based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

[0298] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may enter a defrosting operation mode based on the performance data deteriorating by exceeding the first threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data.

[0299] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) may determine that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty based on at least one of the following: the performance data is lowered by exceeding the second threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data, or the efficiency data is lowered by exceeding the second threshold efficiency data compared to the initial efficiency data.

[0300] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can obtain at least one operating parameter of the air conditioning module (212) using a machine learning model (810). The air conditioner (100) can control the air conditioning module (212) using the obtained at least one operating parameter.

[0301] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the machine learning model (810) may receive at least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, the performance data, or the efficiency data. The machine learning model (810) may output at least one operating parameter including at least one of an indoor fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, an outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, a compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, an updated set temperature, a target evaporation pressure, or a target condensation pressure.

[0302] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioner (100) can transmit the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data to the server (1220) via the communication module (230). The air conditioner (100) can display the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data on an external device (1210).

[0303] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the external device (1210) can display the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data.

[0304] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the number of indoor units (104) of the air conditioner (100) is plural, the air conditioner (100) can obtain performance data of each indoor unit (104). Based on the obtained performance data of each of the plurality of indoor units (104), the air conditioner (100) can calculate the ratio of power consumption consumed by each indoor unit (104) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102).

[0305] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an air conditioner (100) is provided. The method for controlling the air conditioner (100) may include a step of acquiring performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) based on at least one sensing data acquired by at least one sensor and an attribute value of the air conditioning module (212). The method for controlling the air conditioner (100) may include a step of periodically updating the performance data and the efficiency data. The method for controlling the air conditioner (100) may include a step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

[0306] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of acquiring the performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of acquiring the at least one sensing data including at least one of an inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), an outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), a low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), a high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or a power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) using the at least one sensor. The step of acquiring the performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of calculating a refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a), an outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a), and an inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) based on the acquired at least one sensing data and an attribute value of the air conditioning module (212). The step of acquiring the above performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of acquiring the performance data based on a refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) and a difference value between an outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and an inlet enthalpy. The step of acquiring the performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of acquiring the efficiency data based on a power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) and the performance data.

[0307] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of obtaining the performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of determining a refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) using the at least one sensing data and a first lookup table. The step of obtaining the performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of obtaining the performance data based on the determined refrigerant flow rate. The step of obtaining the performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of determining power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) using the first lookup table. The step of obtaining the performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of obtaining the efficiency data based on the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) and the performance data.

[0308] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of periodically updating the performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of acquiring the performance data and the efficiency data at a first time period. The step of periodically updating the performance data and the efficiency data may include a step of transmitting the acquired performance data and the efficiency data to a server (1220) at a second time period.

[0309] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of entering a defrosting operation mode based on the performance data deteriorating by exceeding first threshold performance data compared to initial performance data.

[0310] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of determining that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty based on whether the performance data indicates that the performance is degraded by exceeding the second threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data, or whether the efficiency data indicates that the efficiency is degraded by exceeding the second threshold efficiency data compared to the initial efficiency data.

[0311] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of obtaining at least one operating parameter of the air conditioning module (212) using a machine learning model (810). The step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) using the obtained at least one operating parameter. The step of obtaining the at least one operating parameter using the machine learning model (810) may include a step of receiving at least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, the performance data, or the efficiency data. The step of obtaining the at least one operating parameter using the machine learning model (810) may include a step of outputting the at least one operating parameter including at least one of an indoor unit fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, an outdoor unit fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, a compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, an updated set temperature, a target evaporation pressure, or a target condensation pressure.

[0312] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of transmitting the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data to a server (1220) via a communication module (230). The step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of displaying the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data on an external device (1210).

[0313] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of acquiring performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) may include a step of acquiring performance data of each indoor unit (104) when the number of indoor units (104) is plural. The method for controlling the air conditioner (100) may further include a step of calculating a ratio of power consumption consumed by each indoor unit (104) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) based on the acquired performance data of each of the plurality of indoor units (104).

[0314] In addition, according to one aspect of one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing a method for controlling an air conditioner (100) on a computer is provided.

[0315] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0316] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, and the computer programs may be formed from computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, “application” and “program” may refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, associated data, or portions thereof suitable for implementation in computer-readable program code. “Computer-readable program code” may include various types of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. “Computer-readable medium” may include various types of media that can be accessed by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or various types of memory.

[0317] Additionally, a device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, a 'non-transitory storage medium' is a tangible device and may exclude wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit temporary electrical or other signals. Meanwhile, this 'non-transitory storage medium' does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where it is temporarily stored. For example, a 'non-transitory storage medium' may include a buffer where data is temporarily stored. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, and may include both volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and non-removable media. A computer-readable medium includes a medium on which data can be permanently stored and a medium on which data can be stored and later overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disk or an erasable memory device.

[0318] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0319] The processor (210) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors (210). For example, the term “processor (210)” as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor (210). One or more of the processors (210) in the at least one processor (210) may be individually and / or collectively configured to perform the various functions described herein in a distributed fashion. As used herein, “processor (210),” “at least one processor (210),” and “one or more processors (210)” may be configured to perform multiple functions. However, these terms encompass, without limitation, situations where one processor (210) performs some of the functions and other processor(s) (210) perform other parts of the functions, and situations where a single processor (210) may perform all of the functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor (210) may include a combination of processors (210) that perform various of the functions described herein in a distributed manner. At least one processor (210) can execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions.

[0320] The above description of the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure can be readily modified into other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics of the present disclosure. For example, suitable results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than the described method, and / or components of the systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. described are combined or combined in a different form than the described method, or are replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as being single may be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as being distributed may be implemented in a combined form.

[0321] The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims described below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In the air conditioner (100), At least one sensor (220); An air conditioning module (212) including an evaporator (212a) and a compressor (212b); At least one processor (210) comprising processing circuitry; and Includes a memory (214) for storing instructions, The air conditioner (100) is configured such that the above instructions are individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (210). Based on at least one sensing data acquired by at least one sensor (220) and the attribute value of the air conditioning module (212), performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) are acquired, Periodically update the above performance data and the above efficiency data, and An air conditioner (100) that controls the air conditioning module (212) based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

2. In paragraph 1, The above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) obtains, using the at least one sensor (220), the at least one sensing data including at least one of an inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), an outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), a low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), a high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or a power consumption of the air conditioning module (212). Based on at least one of the acquired sensing data and the attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212), the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a), the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) are calculated, Based on the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) and the difference value between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy, the performance data is obtained, and An air conditioner (100) that obtains the efficiency data based on the power consumption and performance data of the air conditioning module (212).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, An air conditioner (100), wherein the attribute value of the air conditioning module (212) includes at least one of the excluded volume of the compressor (212b), the volumetric efficiency of the compressor (212b), or the mechanical efficiency of the compressor (212b).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) determines the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) using the at least one sensing data and the first lookup table, Obtaining the performance data based on the above-determined refrigerant flow rate, Using the first lookup table, the power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) is determined, An air conditioner (100) that obtains the efficiency data based on the power consumption and performance data of the air conditioning module (212).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) obtains the performance data and the efficiency data in a first time period, and An air conditioner (100) that transmits the acquired performance data and the acquired efficiency data to a server (1220) in a second time cycle.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An air conditioner (100) in which the instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) controls at least one of the frequency of the compressor (212b), the air volume of the air conditioning module (212), the target evaporation pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or the target condensation pressure of the air conditioning module (212), based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An air conditioner (100) in which the above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) enters a defrosting operation mode based on the performance data deteriorating by exceeding the first threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, An air conditioner (100), wherein the air conditioning module (212) is determined to be faulty based on at least one of the following: the performance data exceeds the second threshold performance data compared to the initial performance data, thereby degrading performance; or the efficiency data exceeds the second threshold efficiency data compared to the initial efficiency data, thereby degrading efficiency; wherein the air conditioner (100) determines that the air conditioning module (212) is faulty based on at least one of the following: the performance data exceeds the second threshold performance data compared to the initial efficiency data, thereby degrading efficiency.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100) obtains at least one operating parameter of the air conditioning module (212) using a machine learning model (810), Controlling the air conditioning module (212) using at least one of the obtained operating parameters, The above machine learning model (810) is At least one of indoor temperature, indoor humidity, outdoor temperature, outdoor humidity, low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), operating time of the air conditioning module (212), current set temperature of the air conditioning module (212), indoor fan (212e) rotation speed measurement value, outdoor fan (212d) rotation speed measurement value, compressor (212b) rotation speed measurement value, performance data or efficiency data is input, An air conditioner (100) that outputs at least one operating parameter including at least one of an indoor unit fan (212e) rotation speed setting value, an outdoor unit fan (212d) rotation speed setting value, a compressor (212b) rotation speed setting value, an updated set temperature, a target evaporation pressure, or a target condensation pressure.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above air conditioner (100) further includes a communication module (230), The air conditioner (100) transmits the updated performance data and the updated efficiency data to the server (1220) through the communication module (230) by executing the above instructions individually or collectively by the at least one processor (210). An air conditioner (100) in which the above updated performance data and the above updated efficiency data are displayed on an external device (1210).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (210), so that the air conditioner (100), when the number of indoor units (104) of the air conditioner (100) is plural, obtains performance data of each indoor unit (104), and An air conditioner (100) that calculates the power consumption ratio of each indoor unit (104) among the power consumption of the outdoor unit (102) based on the performance data of each of the plurality of indoor units (104) obtained above.

12. A step of acquiring performance data and efficiency data of the air conditioning module (212) based on at least one sensing data acquired by at least one sensor (220) and attribute values ​​of the air conditioning module (212); a step of periodically updating the above performance data and the above efficiency data; and A method for controlling an air conditioner (100), comprising a step of controlling the air conditioning module (212) based on the periodically updated performance data and the periodically updated efficiency data.

13. In paragraph 12, The step of obtaining the above performance data and the above efficiency data is: A step of obtaining at least one sensing data including at least one of an inlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), an outlet temperature of the evaporator (212a), a low pressure of the air conditioning module (212), a high pressure of the air conditioning module (212), or power consumption of the air conditioning module (212) using at least one sensor (220); A step of calculating the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a), the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a), and the inlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) based on at least one of the acquired sensing data and the attribute value of the air conditioning module (212); A step of obtaining the performance data based on the refrigerant flow rate of the evaporator (212a) and the difference value between the outlet enthalpy of the evaporator (212a) and the inlet enthalpy; and An air conditioner (100) control method, comprising a step of obtaining the efficiency data based on the power consumption and the performance data of the air conditioning module (212).

14. In paragraph 12 or 13, The step of periodically updating the above performance data and the above efficiency data is: In a first time cycle, a step of acquiring the performance data and the efficiency data; and A method for controlling an air conditioner (100), comprising the step of transmitting the acquired performance data and the acquired efficiency data to a server (1220) in a second time cycle.

15. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for performing the method of any one of claims 12 to 14 on a computer.

Images