Wall-Mounted AC Indoor Unit for Vacuum Cleaner Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indoor-unit control systems for air-conditioning apparatuses require a dedicated device controller with a camera unit, leading to high costs, complex installation, and a less aesthetically pleasing appearance due to the need for ceiling-mounted components.
Innovation Solution
An air-conditioning apparatus indoor unit with an imaging device and a controller that integrates air-sending, refrigeration cycle, and blowing direction control, allowing for autonomous vacuum cleaner control without additional device controllers, mounted on a wall to avoid ceiling protrusions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a dedicated device controller with camera unit is installed to control autonomous vacuum cleaner, then the vacuum cleaner can be controlled effectively, but the system cost increases and installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vacuum cleaner control functions into the existing air conditioner indoor unit. The imaging device and controller that were previously separate components are integrated into the air conditioner's structure, eliminating the need for a dedicated device controller and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The air conditioner indoor unit is given multiple functions: it continues to provide air conditioning while also serving as the control center for the autonomous vacuum cleaner. The imaging device captures images for both air conditioning control (detecting persons and objects) and vacuum cleaner navigation, making the system more versatile.
2Ease of operation
If device controller is mounted on ceiling to control vacuum cleaner, then control coverage is maximized, but installation work increases and room appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is merged with the wall-mounted air conditioner indoor unit, eliminating the need for separate ceiling mounting. The imaging device is integrated into the air conditioner's housing, so no additional ceiling installation is required.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting the controller on the ceiling (traditional approach), the patent inverts the mounting location to the wall-mounted air conditioner. This reversal maintains control functionality while avoiding ceiling installation work and preserving room appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional device controller is installed, then vacuum cleaner control is enabled, but installation work increases and room appearance is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum cleaner control function is merged with the air conditioner indoor unit. The imaging device and controller are integrated into the existing air conditioner structure, reducing the total number of components from separate controller and air conditioner to a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The air conditioner indoor unit serves dual purposes: air conditioning and vacuum cleaner control. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated components, reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution eliminates the need for a separate device controller, reducing installation complexity and costs while maintaining a room's appearance, enabling efficient autonomous vacuum cleaner operation and thorough cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device capturing an image of inside of the room
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchanger disposed in the air path, the heat exchanger serving as part of a refrigeration cycle
Data Source
AI summary
An air-conditioning apparatus indoor unit that includes a controller is described. In an automatic cleaning mode, when having determined on the basis of an image captured by an imaging device that there is no person in a room, the controller causes air to be blown for a predetermined time to a stationary three-dimensional object identified using the image captured by the imaging device. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the controller causes air blowing to the stationary three-dimensional object to be stopped, and issues an operation instruction for an autonomous vacuum cleaner to clean and move in the room.