Air conditioner

Abstract

This air conditioner can be operated to receive an input signal of a user and spray air into an air conditioning space. The air conditioner comprises: a housing in which a blower fan and a heat exchanger capable of exchanging heat with air are mounted; an outer cover which includes one or more holes, through which an input signal can pass, and is coupled to the housing so as to cover the housing; a light-transmitting window which is disposed between the housing and the outer cover, covers the one or more holes, and includes a light-transmitting material through which the input signal can pass; a receiving sensor which is disposed between the housing and the light-transmitting window and provided to receive the input signal; and a reflector for guiding, to the receiving sensor, the input signal that has passed through the light-transmitting window, wherein the reflector accommodates the receiving sensor, includes a dome shape having a cross-sectional area that progressively increases from the receiving sensor toward the light-transmitting window, and is disposed so as to be in contact with the light-transmitting window.

Description

air conditioner

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner, and more particularly, to an air conditioner whose operation is controlled via a remote control device.

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

[0003] An air conditioner includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, etc., while the indoor unit includes an indoor heat exchanger, a blower fan, etc., and the expansion device may be installed in the indoor unit.

[0004] An air conditioner can be operated by a user using a remote control. The remote control can emit infrared signals for the operation of the air conditioner, and a receiving module installed in the indoor unit of the air conditioner can sense these infrared signals. Infrared signals travel in a straight line and can be reflected or transmitted by objects along their path.

[0005] Therefore, depending on the location where the indoor unit of the air conditioner is installed, the path along which the infrared signal from the remote control device operated by the user proceeds to the receiving module can be provided in various ways.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner including a structure capable of increasing the reception rate of an infrared signal.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air conditioner that can increase the reception rate of infrared signals in a simple manner by being equipped with a structure that is easy to install and maintain.

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

[0009] An air conditioner according to the invention is an air conditioner operable to receive a user's input signal and inject air into an air-conditioned space. The air conditioner comprises a housing in which a blower fan and a heat exchanger capable of exchanging heat with air are installed, an outer cover coupled to the housing to cover the housing, the outer cover including one or more holes through which the input signal can pass, a light-transmitting window disposed between the housing and the outer cover, the light-transmitting window covering the one or more holes, the light-transmitting window including a light-transmitting material through which the input signal can pass, a receiving sensor disposed between the housing and the light-transmitting window and arranged to receive the input signal, and a reflector guiding the input signal transmitted through the light-transmitting window to the receiving sensor, the reflector including a dome shape that accommodates the receiving sensor and has a cross-sectional area that increases as it moves from the receiving sensor toward the light-transmitting window, and is disposed to contact the light-transmitting window.

[0010] An air conditioner according to the invention is an air conditioner operable to receive a user's input signal and inject air into an air-conditioned space. The air conditioner comprises a housing in which a blower fan and a heat exchanger capable of exchanging heat with air are installed, an outer cover including one or more holes through which the input signal can pass and coupled with the housing to cover the housing, and a receiving sensor disposed between the housing and the outer cover and provided to receive the input signal. The air conditioner comprises a first opening into which the receiving sensor is inserted, a second opening disposed adjacent to the outer cover to allow an input signal passing through the one or more holes to enter, a reflective body connecting the first opening and the second opening, and a reflector including a receiving groove formed inside the reflective body to receive the receiving sensor and having an outwardly convex dome shape.

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a user controls the operation of an air conditioner by operating a remote control device.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 is a drawing showing a cross-section formed by cutting Figure 2 along the cutting line Ⅰ'.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a separated receiving module in an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a receiver module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, with the module cover separated.

[0016] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a receiving module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a circuit assembly, a reflector, and a receiver separately from a receiver module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 is a drawing showing an enlarged view of a portion of the area after separating the reflector from Figure 7.

[0019] Figure 9 is a drawing showing Figure 8 from a different angle.

[0020] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing a reflector separated from an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 is a drawing showing Figure 10 from a different angle.

[0022] Figure 12 is a drawing showing a cross-section formed by cutting Figure 2 along the cutting line Ⅱ'.

[0023] Figure 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the input signal in Figure 12 being reflected by a reflector and proceeding to a receiving sensor.

[0024] 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.

[0025] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0035] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0038] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0039] 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.

[0040] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0044] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0045] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0046] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0047] 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.

[0048] Multiple outdoor units may all be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0055] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0056] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0059] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0060] 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.

[0061] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0062] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0063] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0064] 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.

[0065] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0082] 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.

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

[0086] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user controlling the operation of an air conditioner by operating a remote control device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view formed by cutting FIG. 2 along section line Ⅰ'.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a user (U) can control the operation of an air conditioner (100) by operating a remote control device (11) inside an air-conditioned space (R). Hereinafter, the air conditioner (100) is illustrated and described as being a ceiling-type air conditioner (100), but this is merely an example for convenience of explanation, and the air conditioner (100) may include various types of air conditioners (100) such as a floor-mounted stand-type air conditioner and a wall-mounted air conditioner.

[0088] In the remote control device (11), an input signal (IR) can be irradiated to the air conditioner (100) based on the operation of the user (U). For example, the input signal (IR) may be an infrared (IR) signal having a straight-line nature. The input signal (IR) irradiated by the remote control device (11) can be transmitted to a receiving module (200) configured to receive the input signal (IR).

[0089] For example, when a user (U) holds a remote control device (11), an input signal (IR) irradiated from the remote control device (11) can be irradiated from a height (h1) at which the user (U) holds the remote control device (11). For example, a height (h2) at which a receiving module (200) of an air conditioner (100) is installed can be set higher than a height (h1) at which the remote control device (11) is located.

[0090] In addition, the remote control device (11) can be spaced apart from the air conditioner (100) in the horizontal direction by a certain distance (d). That is, the path along which the input signal (IR) irradiated from the remote control device (11) progresses can be provided in various lengths and angles depending on the position where the user (U) holds the remote control device (11) and the position where the air conditioner (100) is installed.

[0091] An air conditioner (100) includes a housing (20) having an inlet (15) and an outlet (17), a heat exchanger (30) for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing (20), and a blower fan (40) for circulating air into or out of the housing (20). The air conditioner (100) includes a receiving module (200) provided to receive an input signal (IR), and a control unit (not shown) for controlling the operation of the air conditioner (100) based on the received input signal (IR).

[0092] The housing (20) can be arranged to form the overall appearance of the air conditioner (100).

[0093] The blower fan (40) may be placed inside the housing (20). The blower fan (40) may be a cross-flow fan having the same length direction as the length direction of the housing (20). The blower fan (40) may blow air so as to suck in air from the intake port (15) and discharge the air to the exhaust port (17). The exhaust port (17) may be formed to extend in a first direction. For example, the first direction may be the left-right direction (+-Y direction), but is not limited thereto.

[0094] The heat exchanger (30) can be placed adjacent to the blower fan (40), and is preferably placed between the suction port (15) and the blower fan (40). Through this, external air can be sucked into the suction port (15), exchanged with the heat exchanger (30), and then discharged to the outside through the discharge port (17).

[0095] The air conditioner (100) may include a blade (110) configured to open and close the exhaust port (17). The blade (110) may also be referred to as a 'blade (110) unit' or a 'blade (110) assembly'.

[0096] The blade (110) may be provided to be rotatable in the housing (20). The blade (110) may be provided to be rotatable around the rotational axis of the blade (110). The rotational axis of the blade (110) may be located on the inner surface of the housing (20).

[0097] The blade (110) may include a main blade (111) that guides the movement of air, and a sub blade (112) that is coupled to the main blade (111) and guides the air in a further direction.

[0098] The main blade (111) may be provided with a size corresponding to the discharge port (17). Accordingly, the main blade (111) can close the discharge port (17). At this time, air can be discharged to the outside of the housing (20) through one or more holes (212) of the main blade (111).

[0099] The sub blade (112) may be made smaller than the main blade (111). The sub blade (112) may be arranged to face the inner surface of the main blade (111) when the main blade (111) closes the outlet (17). At this time, air may pass through one or more holes (212) of the sub blade (112) and be discharged to the outside through one or more holes (212) of the main blade (111). That is, when the main blade (111) closes the outlet (17), air may be discharged to the outside of the housing (20) through one or more holes (212) of the main blade (111) and one or more holes (212) of the sub blade (112). In other words, a windless operation may be performed to implement a windless airflow and discharge air to the outside. Here, windless operation may mean low-wind operation in which air is discharged at a speed below a certain level without blowing air directly to the user (U).

[0100] In contrast, when the main blade (111) opens the exhaust port (17), the sub blade (112) can be arranged to face the front of the exhaust port (17) as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, thereby guiding the air discharged through the exhaust port (17) to the front of the exhaust port (17).

[0101] The air conditioner (100) can be controlled to discharge air through one or more holes (212) from the blower fan (40) via the blade (110) or directly to the exhaust port (17).

[0102] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a detached receiving module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a detached module cover of a receiving module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is an exploded drawing illustrating a receiving module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the receiving module (200) may be arranged to form a part of the air conditioner (100). For example, the receiving module (200) may be arranged to form a part of the front left side (-Y side of +X direction) of the air conditioner (100).

[0104] The receiving module (200) may include an outer cover (210) that forms one side of the lower (-Z) portion of the exterior of the air conditioner (100) and is provided so that an input signal (IR) can pass through it, a light-emitting window (230) that comes into contact with the inner surface of the outer cover (210) and is provided so that the input signal (IR) can pass through it, a receiving device (250) that includes a receiving sensor (252) that is provided to receive the input signal (IR), a reflector (240) that guides the input signal (IR) that has passed through the light-emitting window (230) to the receiving sensor (252), and a circuit assembly (220) that is electrically connected to the receiving sensor (252).

[0105] The outer cover (210) may be provided so as to be coupled with the housing (20). For example, the outer cover (210) may be provided so as to cover the housing (20) and separate the air-conditioned space (R) from the housing (20).

[0106] The outer cover (210) may include an outer cover body (211) forming an outer shape, one or more holes (212) formed to penetrate the outer cover body (211) and provided to allow an input signal (IR) to pass through, status display holes (213) formed to penetrate the outer cover body (211) to display the current status of the air conditioner (100), and a module receiving room (215) formed inside the outer cover body (211).

[0107] For example, the outer cover body (211) may include a curved plate (2411) shape. For example, the outer cover body (211) may be formed to be inclined upward (+Z direction) with respect to a second direction that intersects the first direction in which the discharge port (17) extends. For example, the second direction may mean forward (+X direction), but is not limited thereto.

[0108] The light window (230) can be placed between the housing (20) and the outer cover (210).

[0109] The light window (230) may be positioned to contact the inner surface of the outer cover (210). The light window (230) may contact the outer cover (210) and cover one or more holes (212).

[0110] The light-transmitting window (230) may include a light-transmitting material, through which input signals (IR) that enter one or more holes (212) can pass through the light-transmitting window (230) and proceed to the receiving sensor (252).

[0111] The light-transmitting window (230) may include a light-transmitting body (231) that contacts the inner surface of the outer cover (210) and forms an outer shape, and one or more beads (233, bead) that protrude downward from the light-transmitting body (231).

[0112] The light-emitting body (231) can be formed to be inclined upward with respect to a second direction that intersects the first direction in which the discharge port (17) extends.

[0113] One or more beads (233) can be inserted into one or more holes (212), respectively. Since one or more beads (233) include a light-transmitting material, an input signal (IR) passing through the hole (212) can proceed to the receiving sensor (252) via the beads (233).

[0114] One or more holes (212) can penetrate the outer cover body (211) to connect the air conditioning space (R) and the module receiving room (215). As will be described later, one or more holes (212) are formed at a position corresponding to the receiving sensor (252) when the receiving sensor (252) is placed, so that an input signal (IR) from the air conditioning space (R) can be transmitted to the receiving sensor (252).

[0115] Since the status indicator holes (213) are formed at positions corresponding to the status indicator bulbs (223) described later, the light emitted from the status indicator bulbs (223) can travel to the air conditioning space (R). Through this, the user (U) can easily determine the current status of the air conditioner (100). For example, the current status of the air conditioner (100) may mean the current operating mode of the air conditioner (100), such as whether the air conditioner (100) is in cooling / heating mode or air purification mode, but is not limited thereto.

[0116] The light projection window (230) may include a plurality of status display windows (232) that protrude downward (-Z direction) from the light projection body (231). The plurality of status display windows (232) may be inserted into the status display holes (213), respectively.

[0117] The module receiving chamber (215) may be formed by being recessed into the interior of the outer cover body (211). The module receiving chamber (215) may be provided to receive a light-emitting window (230), a receiving device (250), a reflector (240), and a circuit assembly (220). The receiving module (200) may include a module cover (201) that is provided to be connectable with the outer cover body (211), and the module cover (201) covers the light-emitting window (230), the receiving device (250), the reflector (240), and the circuit assembly (220) and may be received in the module receiving chamber (215).

[0118] Various electronic components may be mounted on the circuit assembly (220). For example, the circuit assembly (220) may include a printed circuit board (221), electronic components (222) mounted on the printed circuit board (221), and a status display light bulb (223) mounted on the printed circuit board (221) and configured to emit light under the control of a control unit. The electronic components (222) and the status display light bulb (223) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (221).

[0119] For example, electronic components (222) are mounted on a printed circuit board (221) and can receive input signals (IR) sensed by a receiving sensor (252) and convert them into signals that can be interpreted by a control unit.

[0120] The receiving sensor (252) may be connected to the printed circuit board (221) and positioned within the module receiving chamber (215). The reflector (240) may accommodate the receiving sensor (252) and guide the input signal (IR) to smoothly proceed to the receiving sensor (252). The specific method by which the receiving sensor (252) is connected to the printed circuit board (221) and the specific structure and method by which the reflector (240) guides the input signal (IR) will be described in detail below.

[0121] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a circuit assembly, a reflector, and a receiver separately from a receiver module of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an enlarged portion of a portion of FIG. 7 after the reflector has been separated. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing FIG. 8 from a different angle. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a reflector separated from an air conditioner according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing FIG. 10 from a different angle.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, the receiving device (250) may include a stand (251) on which a reflector (240) can be mounted. The stand (251) may be connected to a printed circuit board (221) and coupled to a housing (20). A receiving sensor (252) may be mounted on the lower surface of the stand (251). That is, the receiving sensor (252) may be installed so as to protrude from the lower surface of the stand (251).

[0123] The stand (251) may include a stand block (2515) on which a receiving sensor (252) is installed, and a pair of supports (2511, 2513) that protrude upward from both ends of the stand block (2515) and are connected to a printed circuit board (221).

[0124] The receiving sensor (252) may be installed so as to protrude downward from the lower surface of the mounting block (2515). The receiving device (250) may include a sensor guard (254) installed on the lower surface of the mounting block (2515) to cover the receiving sensor (252).

[0125] For example, the mounting block (2515) may have an approximately rectangular shape. A pair of supports (2511, 2513) may be arranged at each end of the mounting block (2515) to connect the printed circuit board (221) and the mounting block (2515).

[0126] For example, a pair of supports (2511, 2513) may include a first support (2511) connected to one end of a mounting block (2515), and a second support (2513) spaced apart from the first support (2511) and connected to the other end of the mounting block (2515). For example, a pair of supports (2511, 2513) may protrude from each of the left and right ends of the mounting block (2515), but is not limited thereto.

[0127] A receiving sensor (252) mounted on a stand (251) can be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (221) via a wire (253). The receiving sensor (252) can receive power from the printed circuit board (221) via the wire (253) and transmit an input signal (IR) to the control unit.

[0128] The reflector (240) can be mounted on a stand (251). The reflector (240) accommodates a receiving sensor (252) and can be supported on the stand (251).

[0129] The reflector (240) may include a reflective body (241). The reflective body (241) may be configured to guide an input signal (IR) that has entered to a receiving sensor (252). The reflective body (241) may include a guide portion (2415) having a dome shape and a plate (2411) that supports the guide portion (2415).

[0130] A plate (2411) may be placed under the reflector (240). The plate (2411) may have a roughly rectangular plate shape. The plate (2411) may include one side (2412) of the plate that is placed to contact the light-emitting window (230).

[0131] The guide portion (2415) can be connected to the plate (2411). The guide portion (2415) can be placed on the upper portion of the plate (2411).

[0132] The guide portion (2415) may be formed to protrude from the plate (2411) toward the receiving sensor (252). The guide portion (2415) may have an approximately hemispherical shape.

[0133] The guide portion (2415) may be designed to have a radius that increases as it moves from the receiving sensor (252) toward the light-emitting window (230). The cross-sectional area of ​​the guide portion (2415) may widen as it moves from the receiving sensor (252) toward the light-emitting window (230). The cross-sectional area of ​​the guide portion (2415) may narrow as it moves from the light-emitting window (230) toward the receiving sensor (252).

[0134] The reflective surface (2414) may be the inner surface of the guide portion (2415). The reflective surface (2414) may be positioned so that the input signal (IR) is irradiated. The input signal (IR) that passes through the hole (212) and the light-emitting window (230) of the outer cover (210) and enters the reflective surface (2414), which is the inner surface of the guide portion (2415), may collide with the reflective surface (2414) and be reflected.

[0135] The input signal (IR) can be reflected toward the receiving sensor (252). More specifically, since the guide portion (2415) is inclined from the light-emitting window (230) toward the receiving sensor (252), the input signal (IR) can be reflected toward the receiving sensor (252). The input signal (IR) incident on the first point of the reflective surface (2414) can be reflected to the second point of the reflective surface (2414) and then to the receiving sensor (252). The second point can be one of any points of the reflective surface (2414).

[0136] The reflector (240) may include a receiving portion (243). The receiving portion (243) may be a space formed from the reflective body (241). The receiving portion (243) may be an internal space of the guide portion (2415). The receiving portion (243) may be provided to receive the receiving sensor (252) within the reflector (240). The receiving portion (243) may be a space provided to allow the receiving sensor (252) to be placed within the reflector (240).

[0137] The receiving portion (243) may include a first opening (2433) and a second opening (2435). The first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435) may be holes penetrating the reflective body (241). The first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435) may be spaced apart from each other. The first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435) may be arranged on opposite sides. The first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435) may be arranged vertically (+-Z).

[0138] The second opening (2435) may be positioned closer to the light-emitting window (230) than the first opening (2433). The second opening (2435) may be formed on one surface of the reflective body (241). The second opening (2435) may be formed to penetrate one surface (2412) of the plate. The one surface (2412) of the plate may form a border of the second opening (2435). The second opening (2435) may be formed on one side of the guide portion (2415). The second opening (2435) may be formed at the bottom of the guide portion (2415). The radius of the second opening (2435) may be provided to be larger than the radius of the first opening (2433).

[0139] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second opening (2435) may include a cross-sectional area wider than the area in which one or more holes (212) are distributed. The second opening (2435) may be arranged to surround one or more holes (212). Accordingly, input signals (IR) that pass through one or more holes (212) may smoothly pass through the second opening (2435).

[0140] The first opening (2433) may be provided so that the receiving sensor (252) may pass therethrough. The first opening (2433) may be positioned closer to the holder (251) than the second opening (2435). The first opening (2433) may be formed on the other side of the guide portion (2415). The first opening (2433) may be formed on the upper portion of the guide portion (2415). The first opening (2433) may be formed to be surrounded by the upper surface (2413) of the reflective body. That is, the upper surface (2413) of the reflective body may form a border of the first opening (2433).

[0141] The receiving portion (243) may include a receiving groove (2434) connected from the first opening (2433) to the second opening (2435). The receiving groove (2434) may be a space formed between the first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435).

[0142] For example, the length of a curve extending from a part of the reflective body (241) forming the border of the second opening (2435) to another part of the reflective body (241) forming the first opening (2433) along the side of the reflective body (241) may become shorter as it goes in the second direction. In other words, the length of a curve extending in the vertical direction along the outer surface of the guide portion (2415) of the reflective body (241) may become shorter as it goes in the second direction.

[0143] For example, the second direction may mean forward (+X direction). This is because the outer cover (210) and the light-emitting window (230) are formed to be inclined upward with respect to the second direction, so that the distance between the outer cover (210) and the stand (251) or the distance between the light-emitting window (230) and the stand (251) gradually becomes shorter as one goes in the second direction.

[0144] For example, the length of the cross-section of the reflective body (241) formed by cutting the reflector (240) in the vertical direction can be formed to be shorter as it approaches the second direction.

[0145] The reflector (240) may include a coupling portion (242) that is provided to be coupled with a stand (251). The coupling portion (242) may be provided to detachably couple the reflective body (241) to the stand (251). The coupling portion (242) may be formed to protrude from the reflective body (241) toward the stand (251). The coupling portion (242) may be formed to protrude upward from the reflective body (241).

[0146] The coupling portion (242) may include a pair of hook coupling portions (242). The pair of hook coupling portions (242) may include a first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) and a second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a) that are spaced apart from each other. The first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) and the second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a) may be arranged to face each other.

[0147] A pair of hook coupling portions (242) may include a hook stick and a hook tip. The hook stick may protrude upward from the reflective body (241). The hook tip may be formed at an end of the hook stick. The hook tip may protrude from the hook tip in a direction intersecting the direction in which the hook stick extends.

[0148] The first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) may include a first hook stick (242b) and a first hook tip (2421b). The second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a) may include a second hook stick (242a) spaced apart from the first hook stick (242b), and a second hook tip (2421a) protruding from the second hook stick (242a) toward the first hook tip (2421b).

[0149] The first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) may be formed to protrude from the guide portion (2415). The first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) may protrude from one side of the reflective body (241) forming the first opening (2433).

[0150] The second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a) may be formed to protrude from the plate (2411). The second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a) may protrude from the other side of the reflective body (241) forming the second opening (2435).

[0151] The length of the first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) may be formed shorter than the length of the second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a). In other words, the length of the first hook stick (242b) may be formed shorter than the length of the second hook stick (242a).

[0152] The first hook tip (2421b) and the second hook tip (2421a) may protrude toward each other. The first hook tip (2421b) and the second hook tip (2421a) may be positioned to face each other. The first hook tip (2421b) and the second hook tip (2421a) may be formed to protrude toward the center of the reflector (240).

[0153] For example, the stand (251) may include a pair of corners (2512, 2514) formed at opposite ends of the stand block (2515).

[0154] A pair of corners (2512, 2514) and a pair of supports (2511, 2513) may be respectively positioned at ends of different mounting blocks (2515). For example, the pair of supports (2511, 2513) may include a first support (2511) and a second support (2513) positioned at opposite ends of the mounting block (2515), and the pair of corners (2512, 2514) may include a first corner (2514) and a second corner (2512) positioned at opposite ends of the mounting block (2515), respectively.

[0155] A pair of hook joints (242) of the reflector (240) may be supported on a pair of corners (2512, 2514), respectively. More specifically, a first hook tip (2421b) may be supported on a first corner (2514), and a second hook tip (2421a) may be supported on a second corner (2512). This may be referred to as a hook operation, and the reflector (240) may be mounted on a stand through such a relatively simple hook operation.

[0156] For example, when the reflector (240) is mounted, the upper surface of the reflective body (2413) can come into contact with the lower surface of the mounting block (2515).

[0157] The hook joint (242) can accommodate a mounting block (2515) in a space formed by a pair of hook sticks spaced apart from each other. The first hook stick (242b) can contact one surface of the mounting block (2515), and the second hook stick (242a) can contact the other surface of the mounting block (2515).

[0158] Fig. 12 is a drawing illustrating a cross-section formed by cutting Fig. 2 along the cutting line Ⅱ'. Fig. 13 is a drawing conceptually illustrating the input signal in Fig. 12 being reflected by a reflector and proceeding to a receiving sensor.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the input signal (IR) irradiated from the remote control device (11) can be arranged to propagate in a straight line as an infrared signal. The input signal (IR) propagating in a straight line can pass through one or more holes (212) by penetrating one or more beads (233) of the light-emitting window (230).

[0160] Input signals (IR) that have passed through one or more holes (212) can pass through the second opening (2435) of the reflector (240) and proceed into the receiving groove (2434).

[0161] For example, some of the input signals (IR) that have passed through one or more holes (212) may proceed to the receiving sensor (252) without colliding with the reflective surface (2414). The receiving sensor (252) may sense the input signals (IR) that have proceeded to the receiving sensor (252).

[0162] Some of the input signals (IR) that have passed through one or more holes (212) may proceed to collide with the reflective surface (2414). As described above, since the guide portion (2415) is inclined as it moves from the light-emitting window (230) toward the receiving sensor (252), the input signal (IR) that collides with the reflective surface (2414) formed inside the guide portion (2415) may be reflected toward the receiving sensor (252). The input signal (IR) incident on the first point of the reflective surface (2414) may be reflected to the second point of the reflective surface (2414) and then to the receiving sensor (252). The second point may be one of any points of the reflective surface (2414). Through the above-described process, input signals (IR) that could not be directly transmitted to the receiving sensor (252) can also be smoothly transmitted to the receiving sensor (252) by the reflector (240), so that the reception rate of the input signal (IR) can be further improved.

[0163] An air conditioner (100) according to the invention is an air conditioner (100) operable to receive an input signal (IR) from a user (U) and spray air into an air-conditioned space (R). The air conditioner (100) comprises a housing (20) in which a blower fan (40) and a heat exchanger (30) capable of exchanging heat with air are installed, an outer cover (210) coupled with the housing (20) to cover the housing (20) and including one or more holes (212) through which the input signal (IR) can pass, a light-transmitting window (230) disposed between the housing (20) and the outer cover (210), covering the one or more holes (212), and including a light-transmitting material through which the input signal (IR) can pass, a receiving sensor (252) disposed between the housing (20) and the light-transmitting window (230) and provided to receive the input signal (IR), and a reflector (240) that guides the input signal (IR) transmitted through the light-transmitting window (230) to the receiving sensor (252), the receiving sensor (252) receiving the signal and guiding the signal (IR) from the receiving sensor (252) to the receiving sensor (252). It includes a dome shape having a cross-sectional area that increases toward the light window (230), and includes a reflector (240) arranged to be in contact with the light window (230).

[0164] The above reflector (240) may include a first opening (2433) into which the receiving sensor (252) is inserted, a second opening (2435) having a wider cross-sectional area than the area in which the one or more holes (212) are distributed and arranged to surround the one or more holes (212), and a reflective body (241) that connects the first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435) and includes an inner surface capable of reflecting an input signal (IR) that enters the second opening (2435).

[0165] One side of the reflective body (241) forming the border of the second opening (2435) can come into contact with one side of the light-emitting window (230) facing the receiving sensor (252).

[0166] The above-described light-emitting window (230) may include a light-emitting body (231) arranged to be in contact with the inner surface of the outer cover (210) and one or more beads (233, bead) protruding downward from the light-emitting body (231) and inserted into each of the one or more holes (212). The reflective body (241) may be in contact with one surface of the light-emitting body (231) facing the receiving sensor (252).

[0167] The housing (20) includes an exhaust port (17) formed to extend in a first direction to discharge air flowing by the blower fan (40), and the light-transmitting body (231) can be formed to be inclined upward with respect to a second direction that intersects the first direction.

[0168] The length of the curve extending from a part of the reflective body (241) forming the border of the second opening (2435) to another part of the reflective body (241) forming the first opening (2433) along the side of the reflective body (241) may be formed to become shorter as it goes in the second direction.

[0169] The length of the cross-section of the reflective body (241) formed by cutting the reflector (240) in the vertical direction can be formed to be shorter as it approaches the second direction.

[0170] The above air conditioner (100) may further include a stand (251) coupled to the housing (20), and the receiving sensor (252) may be installed so as to protrude from the lower surface of the stand (251). The reflector (240) may further include a coupling portion (242) that protrudes upward from the reflective body (241) and is capable of being coupled with the stand (251).

[0171] The above-mentioned connecting portion (242) may include a pair of hook connecting portions (242) that detachably connect the reflective body (241) to the stand (251).

[0172] The air conditioner (100) may further include a printed circuit board (221) electrically connected to the receiving sensor (252) and on which the stand (251) is mounted. The stand (251) may include a stand block (2515) on which the receiving sensor (252) is installed, and a pair of supports (2511, 2513) that protrude upward from both left and right ends of the stand block (2515) and are connected to the printed circuit board (221).

[0173] The above pair of hook coupling portions (242) may each include a pair of hook sticks that protrude upward from the reflective body (241) and are spaced apart from each other, and a pair of hook tips that protrude in a direction intersecting the direction in which the pair of hook sticks extend from each of the pair of hook sticks. The hook coupling portion (242) may accommodate the mounting block (2515) in a space formed by the pair of hook sticks that are spaced apart from each other, and the pair of hook tips may be arranged to be supported by a pair of corners (2512, 2514) formed at both front and rear ends of the mounting block (2515), respectively.

[0174] The first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b), which is one of the pair of hook coupling portions (242), may protrude from one surface of the reflective body (241) forming the first opening (2433). The second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a), which is the other of the pair of hook coupling portions (242), may protrude from the other surface of the reflective body (241) forming the second opening (2435).

[0175] The length of the first hook coupling portion (242b, 2421b) may be formed shorter than the length of the second hook coupling portion (242a, 2421a).

[0176] The diameter of the first opening (2433) may be made smaller than the diameter of the second opening (2435).

[0177] The above input signal (IR) may include an infrared (IR) signal transmitted straight from a remote control device (11) to control the operation of the air conditioner (100).

[0178] An air conditioner (100) according to the invention is an air conditioner (100) operable to receive an input signal (IR) from a user (U) and inject air into an air-conditioned space (R). The air conditioner (100) includes a housing (20) in which a blower fan (40) and a heat exchanger (30) capable of exchanging heat with air are installed, an outer cover (210) including one or more holes (212) through which the input signal (IR) can pass and coupled with the housing (20) to cover the housing (20), and a receiving sensor (252) disposed between the housing (20) and the outer cover (210) and provided to receive the input signal (IR). The air conditioner (100) includes a reflector (240) including a first opening (2433) into which the receiving sensor (252) is inserted, a second opening (2435) arranged adjacent to the outer cover (210) so that an input signal (IR) passing through the one or more holes (212) enters, a reflective body (241) connecting the first opening (2433) and the second opening (2435), and a receiving groove (2434) formed inside the reflective body (241) and configured to receive the receiving sensor (252) and having an outwardly convex dome shape.

[0179] The air conditioner (100) may further include a light-transmitting window (230) disposed between the housing (20) and the outer cover (210), in contact with the inner surface of the outer cover (210) to cover the one or more holes (212), and including a light-transmitting material through which the input signal (IR) can be transmitted. One surface of the reflective body (241) forming the second opening (2435) may be disposed to be in contact with one surface of the light-transmitting window (230).

[0180] The above-described light-emitting window (230) may include a light-emitting body (231) arranged to be in contact with the inner surface of the outer cover (210) and one or more beads (233, bead) protruding downward from the light-emitting body (231) and inserted into each of the one or more holes (212). The reflective body (241) may be in contact with one surface of the light-emitting body (231) facing the receiving sensor (252).

[0181] The housing (20) includes an exhaust port (17) formed to extend in a first direction to discharge air flowing by the blower fan (40), and the light-transmitting body (231) is formed to be inclined upward with respect to a second direction that intersects the first direction, and the length of a curve extending from a part of the reflective body (241) forming the edge of the second opening (2435) to another part of the reflective body (241) forming the first opening (2433) along the side of the reflective body (241) may be formed to become shorter as it goes in the second direction.

[0182] The air conditioner (100) further includes a stand (251) coupled to the housing (20), and the receiving sensor (252) is installed so as to protrude from the lower surface of the stand (251), and the reflector (240) is formed to protrude upward from the reflective body (241) and is a pair of hook coupling parts (242) that can be coupled with the stand (251), and has a first hook coupling part (242b, 2421b) supported by a corner (2512, 2514) formed at one end of the stand (251), and a second hook coupling part (242a, 2421a) supported by a corner (2512, 2514) formed at the other end of the stand (251) and formed longer than the first hook coupling part (242b, 2421b). It may include a hook joint (242).

[0183] According to the invention, since the reflector is provided to guide the input signal to the receiving sensor, the reception rate of the infrared signal can be increased.

[0184] According to the invention, the reflector can be mounted on a stand by means of a hook action, thereby facilitating installation and maintenance of the reflector.

[0185] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0186] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. An air conditioner installed on the ceiling of an air-conditioned space and operable by receiving a user input signal (IR). A housing in which a blower fan and a heat exchanger capable of exchanging heat with air are installed; An outer cover comprising one or more holes through which the input signal can pass and coupled with the housing so as to cover the housing; A light-transmitting window disposed between the housing and the outer cover, covering the one or more holes, and including a light-transmitting material through which the input signal can be transmitted; A receiving sensor arranged between the housing and the light-emitting window and configured to receive the input signal; and An air conditioner comprising: a reflector that guides an input signal transmitted through the above-described light window to the receiving sensor, the reflector including a dome shape that accommodates the receiving sensor and has a cross-sectional area that increases as it moves from the receiving sensor toward the light window, and is positioned so as to be in contact with the light window; 2. In paragraph 1, The above reflector, A first opening into which the receiving sensor is inserted, A second opening having a cross-sectional area wider than the area in which the one or more holes are distributed and arranged to surround the one or more holes; An air conditioner comprising a reflective body that connects the first opening and the second opening and includes an inner surface capable of reflecting an input signal entering the second opening.

3. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which one side of the reflective body forming the border of the second opening is in contact with one side of the light-emitting window facing the receiving sensor.

4. In paragraph 2, The above light window is, A light-emitting body arranged to contact the inner surface of the outer cover; and It comprises one or more beads protruding downward from the above light-emitting body and each be inserted into one or more holes, An air conditioner in which the above reflective body is in contact with one side of the above light-emitting body facing the above receiving sensor.

5. In paragraph 4, The housing includes an exhaust port extending in a first direction to discharge air flowing by the blower fan, An air conditioner in which the above-mentioned light-emitting body is formed to be inclined upward in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

6. In paragraph 5, An air conditioner in which the length of a curve extending from a part of the reflective body forming the border of the second opening to another part of the reflective body forming the first opening along the side of the reflective body becomes shorter as it goes in the second direction.

7. In paragraph 5, An air conditioner in which the length of the cross-section of the reflective body formed by cutting the reflector in the vertical direction becomes shorter the closer it is to the second direction.

8. In paragraph 2, A stand coupled to the housing, wherein the receiving sensor is installed so as to protrude from the lower surface of the stand; An air conditioner in which the reflector is formed to protrude upward from the reflective body and further includes a connecting portion that can be connected to the stand.

9. In paragraph 8, An air conditioner wherein the above-mentioned coupling part includes a pair of hook coupling parts that detachably couple the above-mentioned reflective body to the above-mentioned stand.

10. In paragraph 9, Further comprising a printed circuit board electrically connected to the receiving sensor and on which the stand is mounted; The above stand is, A mounting block on which the above receiving sensor is installed and An air conditioner including a pair of supports that protrude upward from both left and right ends of the above-mentioned mounting block and are connected to the above-mentioned printed circuit board.

11. In paragraph 10, Each of the above pair of hook joints is, A pair of hook sticks protruding upward from the above reflective body and spaced apart from each other; and A pair of hook tips protruding from each of the pair of hook sticks in a direction intersecting the direction in which the pair of hook sticks extend, An air conditioner in which the hook joint receives the mounting block in a space formed by the pair of hook sticks spaced apart from each other, and the pair of hook tips are respectively supported by a pair of corners formed at the front and rear ends of the mounting block.

12. In paragraph 10, The first hook coupling portion, which is one of the pair of hook coupling portions, protrudes from one side of the reflective body forming the first opening, An air conditioner in which a second hook coupling portion, which is another of the pair of hook coupling portions, protrudes from the other side of the reflective body forming the second opening.

13. In paragraph 12, An air conditioner in which the length of the first hook coupling portion is formed shorter than the length of the second hook coupling portion.

14. In paragraph 2, An air conditioner in which the diameter of the first opening is set smaller than the diameter of the second opening.

15. In paragraph 1, An air conditioner in which the above input signal includes an infrared signal transmitted straight from a remote control device to control the operation of the air conditioner.

Images