WO2025198177A1 - Air conditioner and method for controlling same - Google Patents

Abstract

A disclosed air conditioner may comprise: a sensor that detects an air pollution level; a blower fan that moves air from an inlet to an outlet of the air conditioner; a deodorizing filter that adsorbs odor substances in the air inhaled through the inlet; a light source apparatus that irradiates the deodorizing filter with light; a user interface; and a processor. The processor may: operate the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level or a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface, from among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds; measure the time period during which the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds and store a plurality of cumulative operation time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds; sum the plurality of cumulative operation time values to obtain a total cumulative operation time value; and on the basis of the total cumulative operation time value reaching a threshold value, control the light source apparatus and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter.

Description

Air conditioner and its control method

The disclosed invention relates to an air conditioner including a deodorizing device and a method for controlling the same.

An air conditioner is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space, and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

For example, an air conditioner may include an air purifier to remove airborne contaminants. An air purifier can remove bacteria, viruses, mold, fine dust, and odor-causing chemicals present in the incoming air.

An air purifier may include a purification device to purify polluted indoor air. Air drawn into the air purifier passes through the purification device, where contaminants are removed and purified air is released outside the air purifier. For example, the purification device may include a filter and/or a dust collector.

An air conditioner may include a deodorizing device to remove odors from the air. The deodorizing device may include a deodorizing filter. The deodorizing filter can absorb odorous substances.

The disclosed invention provides an air conditioner capable of automatically performing regeneration of a deodorizing filter and a control method thereof.

The disclosed invention provides an air conditioner and a control method thereof capable of determining whether to regenerate a deodorizing filter by taking into account that a blower fan operates at various wind speeds.

In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a sensor for detecting air pollution levels; a blower fan for moving air from an intake port to an exhaust port of the air conditioner; a deodorizing filter for adsorbing odor substances in the air sucked in through the intake port; a light source device for irradiating light onto the deodorizing filter; a user interface; and a processor. The processor may operate the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level or a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds, and may store a plurality of cumulative operation time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by counting the time for which the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds, and may obtain a total cumulative operation time value by adding up the plurality of cumulative operation time values, and may control the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total cumulative operation time value reaching a threshold value.

In a method for controlling an air conditioner, the method may include: operating the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to an air pollution level detected by a sensor among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds or a wind speed setting signal received through a user interface; storing a plurality of accumulated operation time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by counting the time for which the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds; obtaining a total accumulated operation time value by adding up the plurality of accumulated operation time values; and controlling the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operation time value reaching a threshold value.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can automatically perform regeneration of a deodorizing filter.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can determine the start time of regeneration of a deodorizing filter by storing and correcting the accumulated operating time for each wind speed of a blower fan.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can determine whether to regenerate the deodorizing filter by considering the operation of the blower fan at various wind speeds. This prevents the deodorizing filter from being used in a degraded state and enhances its deodorizing effect. Furthermore, since the deodorizing filter is regenerated at an appropriate time, the generation of unpleasant odors from the deodorizing filter can be prevented.

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.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the exterior of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

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

Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Figure 5 is an exploded view of a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Fig. 8 is an exploded view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, as viewed from above.

Fig. 9 is an exploded view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, as viewed from below.

Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Fig. 11 illustrates a regeneration process of a deodorizing filter according to one embodiment.

Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining the total accumulated operation time value described in Figure 12.

Fig. 14 is a flowchart explaining the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter described in Fig. 12.

FIG. 15 illustrates a user interface providing filter management notifications according to one embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates a user interface providing a filter regeneration notification according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17 illustrates a user interface that provides information regarding the regeneration operation of a deodorizing filter according to one embodiment.

FIG. 18 illustrates a user interface providing a ventilation notification according to one embodiment.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

An air conditioner may refer to a device capable of performing at least one of various functions, such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, and heating, in an air-conditioned space (e.g., an indoor space).

Hereinafter, various embodiments of air conditioners will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, an air purifier will be described as an example of an air conditioner. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to air purifiers and can be applied to various home appliances, such as air conditioners that include a heat exchanger.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, the air conditioner (1) may include a blower panel (11) and an upper panel (15). The blower panel (11) and the upper panel (15) may form the exterior of the air conditioner (1). The blower panel (11) and the upper panel (15) may correspond to the housing of the air conditioner (1).

The blower panel (11) can prevent various components arranged inside the air conditioner (1) from being exposed to the outside. The upper panel (15) can be arranged above the blower panel (11) and form the upper surface of the air conditioner (1). Although not shown, the air conditioner (1) can also include a lower panel.

A user interface (300) may be provided on the upper panel (15). For example, the user interface (300) may include an input interface (310) and an output interface (320). The input interface (310) may acquire user input. The output interface (320) may display various information regarding the operation of the air conditioner (1).

The air conditioner (1) may include a support (16). The support (16) may be arranged on the lower side of the air conditioner (1) to support the air conditioner (1). The support (16) may protrude from the lower surface of the air conditioner (1). The blower panel (11) may have a hexahedral shape, and the support (16) may be positioned at the lower edge of the blower panel (11).

The blower panel (11) may include a first panel (11a), a second panel (11b), a third panel (11c), and a fourth panel (11d). The first panel (11a) may form the front of the air conditioner (1), the second panel (11b) may form the rear of the air conditioner (1), and the third panel (11c) and the fourth panel (11d) may form the side of the air conditioner (1). The third panel (11c) and the fourth panel (11d) may connect the first panel (11a) and the second panel (11b). The first panel (11a) may be referred to as a front panel, the second panel (11b) as a rear panel, the third panel (11c) as a left panel, and the fourth panel (11d) as a right panel. The first panel (11a), the second panel (11b), the third panel (11c) and the fourth panel (11d) may be formed integrally or may be provided to be connectable.

Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the exterior of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Figure 2 enlarges area A illustrated in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2, the ventilation panel (11) may include a plurality of ribs (12) and a plurality of air vents (13). The plurality of ribs (12) may be formed over the entire area of the ventilation panel (11) and may be provided in various patterns. For example, each of the plurality of ribs (12) may have a bar shape extending in the vertical direction.

A plurality of air vents (13) can be formed between a plurality of ribs (12). A air vent (13) can be provided between every two ribs (12). The air vents (13) can extend in the vertical direction. The outside air of the air conditioner (1) can be sucked into the inside of the air conditioner (1) through the air vents (13). The inside air of the air conditioner (1) can be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner (1) through the air vents (13).

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

Fig. 3 illustrates a cross-section taken vertically along the line B-B' illustrated in Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 3, the air conditioner (1) may include a blower fan (30). The blower fan (30) may rotate to move air. By the operation of the blower fan (30), air may pass through the blower opening (13).

The air blower (13) may include a first intake port (13a) and an exhaust port (13b). The first intake port (13a) may be provided at a lower position than the exhaust port (13b) on the blower panel (11). When the blower fan (30) operates, outside air may be sucked into the interior of the air conditioner (1) through the first intake port (13a). In addition, the air sucked into the interior of the air conditioner (1) may move upwards of the air conditioner (1) and be exhausted to the outside through the exhaust port (13b).

The first intake port (13a) and the exhaust port (13b) can be formed in the first panel (11a), the second panel (11b), the third panel (11c), and the fourth panel (11d). In other words, the first intake port (13a) and the exhaust port (13b) can be formed in the front, rear, left, and right sides of the blower panel (11). Outside air can be sucked into the interior of the air conditioner (1) from all sides of the air conditioner (1). In addition, air can be discharged to all sides of the air conditioner (1). Therefore, air circulation between the exterior and interior of the air conditioner (1) can be smoothly achieved.

The blower fan (30) may be placed inside the blower panel (11). The blower fan (30) may be positioned between the first intake port (13a) and the exhaust port (13b). The blower fan (30) may be placed at a higher position than the first intake port (13a). The blower fan (30) may be placed at a lower position than the exhaust port (13b).

A path (20) may be formed within the air conditioner (1). The path (20) may extend from a first intake port (13a) to an exhaust port (13b). Air may flow through the path (20) by the operation of the blower fan (30). The air may be introduced into the interior of the air conditioner (1) through the first intake port (13a) and the second intake port (14) and pass through the dust collector (50), the deodorizing device (200), and the blower fan (30).

The second suction port (14) may be provided in the case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) in which the dust collector (50) is mounted. Although the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14) have been described as separate, this is not limited thereto. The first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14) may also form a single suction port.

The air conditioner (1) may include an air guide (17). Air passing through the first intake port (13a) and the second intake port (14) may be guided to a blower fan (30) through the air guide (17). The air guide (17) may form a part of a flow path (20). Air passing through the air guide (17) may flow to a fan housing (18) and a blower fan (30).

A blower fan (30) may be placed within a fan housing (18). The fan housing (18) may form a part of a duct (20). The fan housing (18) may guide the flow of air. The fan housing (18) may be connected to an air guide (17). The fan housing (18) may be placed above the air guide (17).

The support frame (19) can support the dust collector (50) and the deodorizing device (200). The support frame (19) can be placed on the inside of the blower panel (11). In addition, the support frame (19) can be combined with the fan housing (18) to support the fan housing (18).

The air conditioner (1) may include a dust collector (50). The dust collector (50) may be positioned between the second suction port (14) and the discharge port (13b). The dust collector (50) may capture aerosols and dust in the air. The dust collector (50) may filter aerosols and dust flowing with the air. Air drawn in through the first suction port (13a) and the second suction port (14) may pass through the dust collector (50).

The dust collector (50) may include a discharge electrode (61), an electric field induction electrode (71), and a dust collecting electrode (80). The discharge electrode (61) may charge an aerosol in the air. The dust collecting electrode (80) may capture the aerosol charged by the discharge electrode (61). The discharge electrode (61) may be placed below the dust collecting electrode (80).

The discharge electrode (61) and the field induction electrode (71) can generate an electric field. The field induction electrode (71) can be positioned upstream of the discharge electrode (61) with respect to the air flow direction. The field induction electrode (71) can be positioned between the second suction port (14) and the discharge electrode (61). The field induction electrode (71) can be positioned closer to the second suction port (14) than to the discharge port (13b).

In addition, the dust collector (50) may include various filters such as a fine dust collection filter in the form of a non-woven fabric formed of polypropylene resin or polyethylene resin or a granular activated carbon filter.

The air conditioner (1) may include a deodorizing device (200). The deodorizing device (200) may be configured to deodorize air. The deodorizing device (200) may be configured to remove odorous substances in the air.

The deodorizing device (200) may be arranged between the first suction port (13a) and the discharge port (13b). The deodorizing device (200) may be arranged between the second suction port (14) and the discharge port (13b). The deodorizing device (200) may be provided to deodorize air passing through the dust collecting device (50). The deodorizing device (200) may be arranged above the dust collecting device (50). The deodorizing device (200) may be arranged between the dust collecting device (50) and the discharge port (13b). The deodorizing device (200) may be arranged between the dust collecting device (50) and the blower fan (30). The position of the deodorizing device (200) is not limited to that exemplified. The deodorizing device (200) may also be arranged below the dust collecting device (50).

Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is an exploded view of a dust collector of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Figure 4 enlarges the area C illustrated in Figure 3. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the dust collector (50) may include a printed circuit board (53) electrically connected to a discharge electrode (61). The printed circuit board (53) may extend in one direction and be electrically connected to a plurality of discharge electrodes (61). A plurality of printed circuit boards (53) may be provided. The plurality of printed circuit boards (53) may be spaced apart from each other.

The discharge electrode (61) can emit electrons by receiving voltage from the printed circuit board (53). When the emitted electrons collide with air molecules, ions can be generated by corona discharge. The emitted electrons can collide with air molecules to generate negative or positive ions.

A plurality of discharge electrodes (61) may be provided. A plurality of discharge electrodes (61) may be spaced apart from each other on a single printed circuit board (53). In Fig. 5, three printed circuit boards (53) and nine discharge electrodes (61) are illustrated. However, the number of printed circuit boards (53) and discharge electrodes (61) is not limited to the exemplified ones.

At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a conductive material. At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a metal. At least a portion of the field induction electrode (71) may include a metal or a conductive material exhibiting electrical characteristics similar thereto.

The field induction electrode (71) may have various shapes. For example, the field induction electrode (71) may have a closed loop shape. The field induction electrode (71) may have a polygonal ring shape. A discharge electrode (61) may be arranged in the opening of the field induction electrode (71).

The potential of the field induction electrode (71) may be lower than the potential of the discharge electrode (61). Therefore, a potential difference may occur between the field induction electrode (71) and the discharge electrode (61), and an electric field may be generated between the field induction electrode (71) and the discharge electrode (61). High-density ions may be generated between the discharge electrode (61) and the field induction electrode (71).

The dust collecting electrode (80) of the dust collecting device (50) may include a first dust collecting electrode (82) and a second dust collecting electrode (83). The first dust collecting electrode (82) and the second dust collecting electrode (83) may be alternately arranged in the front-back direction, left-right direction, and/or up-down direction. Both surfaces of the first dust collecting electrode (82) and the second dust collecting electrode (83) may be coated with an insulator.

A voltage can be applied to the first collecting electrode (82), and the second collecting electrode (83) can be grounded. Since the potential of the first collecting electrode (82) is higher than the potential of the second collecting electrode (83), the first collecting electrode (82) can become a positive (+) electrode, and the second collecting electrode (83) can become a negative (-) electrode. An electric field is formed between the first collecting electrode (82) and the second collecting electrode (83), and the aerosol charged by the discharge electrode (61) can be captured by the first collecting electrode (82) and the second collecting electrode (83).

The dust collector (50) may include a ground electrode (91). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned higher than the discharge electrode (61) inside the air conditioner (1). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned between the discharge electrode (61) and the dust collector electrode (80). The ground electrode (91) may be positioned adjacent to the dust collector electrode (80).

The ground electrode (91) can be grounded. The potential of the ground electrode (91) can be lower than the potential of the discharge electrode (61). Therefore, a potential difference occurs between the ground electrode (91) and the discharge electrode (61), and an electric field can be generated between the ground electrode (91) and the discharge electrode (61). High-density ions can be generated between the discharge electrode (61) and the ground electrode (91).

The ground electrode (91) may have various shapes. For example, the ground electrode (91) may be provided to have a mesh pattern and a plate shape.

Part or all of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a conductive material. Part or all of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a metal. At least a portion of the ground electrode (91) may comprise a metal or a conductive material exhibiting electrical characteristics similar thereto.

The case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) can fix the dust collector (50). The dust collector (50) can be mounted on the case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160). The case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) can be placed on the inside of the blower panel (11). The case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) can be placed on the outside of the dust collector (50). A second suction port (14) can be formed in the case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160).

The case (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) may include a dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and a charging case (140, 150, 160). The dust collection case (110, 120, 130) may accommodate a dust collection electrode (80). The dust collection case (110, 120, 130) may include holes (110a, 120a, 130a, 140a, 150a) that allow air to pass through.

The dust collection case (110, 120, 130) may include a first dust collection case (110), a second dust collection case (120), and a third dust collection case (130). The first dust collection case (110), the second dust collection case (120), and the third dust collection case (130) may be formed integrally to form a single dust collection case.

The first dust collecting case (110) may be placed on the dust collecting electrode (80). The first dust collecting case (110) may cover at least a portion of the upper and side portions of the dust collecting electrode (80). The first dust collecting case (110) may be placed on the second dust collecting case (120) and the third dust collecting case (130). The first dust collecting case (110) may be coupled to the third dust collecting case (130). The first dust collecting case (110) may include a coupling portion (111). The first dust collecting case (110) and the third dust collecting case (130) may be hook-coupled. The coupling portion (111) of the first dust collecting case (110) may be hook-coupled to the coupling portion (131) of the third dust collecting case (130). A dust collecting electrode (80) can be accommodated in a space formed by combining the first dust collecting case (110) and the third dust collecting case (130).

The second dust collecting case (120) may be placed below the dust collecting electrode (80). The second dust collecting case (120) may cover a portion of the front and rear of the dust collecting electrode (80). The second dust collecting case (120) may support the dust collecting electrode (80). The second dust collecting case (120) may be placed between the first dust collecting case (110) and the third dust collecting case (130). The second dust collecting case (120) may be mounted on the third dust collecting case (130).

The third dust collecting case (130) may be placed below the dust collecting electrode (80). The third dust collecting case (130) may cover a portion of the front, rear, side, and lower surface of the dust collecting electrode (80). The third dust collecting case (130) may support the dust collecting electrode (80). The third dust collecting case (130) may be placed below the first dust collecting case (110) and the second dust collecting case (120). The third dust collecting case (130) may include an electrode mounting portion (132). A ground electrode (80) may be mounted on the electrode mounting portion (132).

The first dust collecting case (110) may include a first hole (110a). The second dust collecting case (120) may include a second hole (120a). The third dust collecting case (130) may include a third hole (130a). Air may sequentially pass through the third hole (130a), the second hole (120a), and the first hole (110a). The first hole (110a), the second hole (120a), and the third hole (130a) may have corresponding shapes. A plurality of the first holes (110a), the second holes (120a), and the third holes (130a) may be provided.

The charging case (140, 150, 160) may include a first charging case (140), a second charging case (150), and a third charging case (160). The first charging case (140), the second charging case (150), and the third charging case (160) may be formed integrally and provided as a single case.

The first charging case (140) may be placed on top of the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160). The first charging case (140) may be placed on top of the discharge electrode (61), the printed circuit board (53), and the field induction electrode (71). The first charging case (140) may cover the discharge electrode (61) and the printed circuit board (53). The printed circuit board (53) may be bonded to the first charging case (140).

The second charging case (150) may be placed below the first charging case (140). The second charging case (150) may support the printed circuit board (53) and the discharge electrode (61). The second charging case (150) may be placed between the first charging case (140) and the third charging case (160).

The second charging case (150) can be coupled with the third charging case (160). The second charging case (150) can include a coupling portion (151). The second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160) can be hook-coupled. The coupling portion (151) of the second charging case (150) can be hook-coupled with the coupling portion (161) of the third charging case (160). An electric field induction electrode (71) can be accommodated in the space formed by coupling the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160).

The second charging case (150) may include a substrate mounting portion (152) that accommodates a printed circuit board (53). The number and shape of the substrate mounting portions (152) may correspond to the number and shape of the printed circuit boards (53). The substrate mounting portions (152) may extend in one direction. The printed circuit board (53) may be mounted on the substrate mounting portion (152), and the discharge electrode (61) may protrude toward the third charging case (160) by penetrating the substrate mounting portion (152).

The third charging case (160) may be placed below the second charging case (150). A field induction electrode (71) may be mounted on the third charging case (160). The third dust collection case (130) may support the field induction electrode (71). The third charging case (160) may be placed below the first charging case (140) and the second charging case (150). The third charging case (160) may be combined with the second charging case (150).

The third charging case (160) may include an induction electrode mounting portion (162). The shape of the induction electrode mounting portion (162) may correspond to the shape of the field induction electrode (71). For example, the induction electrode mounting portion (162) may have a square shape. The field induction electrode (71) may be mounted on the induction electrode mounting portion (162) and may be positioned between the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160).

A second suction port (14) may be formed in the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160). For example, the second suction port (14) may be formed on the side surfaces of the second charging case (150) and the third charging case (160). The second suction port (14) may be formed on all sides of the second charging case (150) and on all sides of the third charging case (160). Accordingly, air may flow into the interior of the charging cases (140, 150, 160) from all sides.

The third charging case (160) may include a bottom portion (163). The bottom portion (163) may prevent air introduced into the charging case (140, 150, 160) through the second suction port (14) from escaping downward.

The first charging case (140) may include a fourth hole (140a). The second charging case (150) may include a fifth hole (150a). Air sucked through the second suction port (14) may sequentially pass through the fifth hole (150a) and the fourth hole (140a). The fourth hole (140a) and the fifth hole (150a) may have corresponding shapes. A plurality of fourth holes (140a) and fifth holes (150a) may be provided.

Although the dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and the charging case (140, 150, 160) are shown separately, the dust collection case (110, 120, 130) and the charging case (140, 150, 160) may be formed as one piece.

Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 enlarges area D illustrated in Fig. 3. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 is an exploded view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, viewed from above. Fig. 9 is an exploded view of a deodorizing device of an air conditioner according to one embodiment, viewed from below.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 9, the deodorizing device (200) may include a light source device (220) and a deodorizing filter (260). The deodorizing filter (260) may adsorb odorous substances. The odorous substances adsorbed on the deodorizing filter (260) may be decomposed by light irradiated from the light source device (220).

The light source device (220) may be placed above the deodorizing filter (260), the filter mounting member (230), and the filter case (240, 250), and may be placed below the substrate mounting member (210). The position of the light source device (220) is not limited to that shown. The light source device (220) may also be placed below the deodorizing filter (260).

The light source device (220) may include a light source substrate (221) and a light source (222). The light source substrate (221) may extend in one direction. A plurality of light sources (222) may be arranged on the light source substrate (221). The plurality of light sources (222) may be arranged on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221). A plurality of light source substrates (221) may also be provided.

Each of the plurality of light source substrates (221) may be positioned adjacent to the blower panels (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d). For example, the light source substrates (221) may be positioned adjacent to each of the first panel (11a), the second panel (11b), the third panel (11c), and the fourth panel (11d).

The light source substrate (221) can be tilted. The light source substrate (221) can be inclined with respect to the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the light source substrate (221) can be inclined with respect to the upper surface of the deodorizing filter (260). In addition, the light source substrate (221) can be arranged at an angle with respect to the blower panel (11). Accordingly, the obstruction of air flow by the light source substrate (221) can be reduced. The light source (222) arranged on the lower surface of the light source substrate (221) can also be inclined with respect to the deodorizing filter (260).

The arrangement relationship between the light source substrate (221) and the deodorizing filter (260) is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the light source substrate (221) may be arranged parallel to the ground, and the deodorizing filter (260) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the light source substrate (221).

The light source substrate (221) can be mounted on the substrate mounting member (210). The light source substrate (221) can be fixed to the substrate mounting member (210) by the substrate fixing member (212). For example, the light source substrate (221) can be fixed to the substrate fixing member (211) formed on the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210) and fixed by the substrate fixing member (212) that supports the lower surface of the light source substrate (221).

A light source (222) is arranged on the lower surface of a light source substrate (221) and can irradiate light to a deodorizing filter (260). The light irradiated from the light source (222) can decompose odor substances adsorbed on the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the light source (222) may include a UV-LED that emits UV light. A plurality of light sources (222) may be provided. The plurality of light sources (222) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of each of the plurality of light source substrates (221).

The light source device (220) may include a connecting portion (223) that electrically connects the control circuit described below and the light source substrate (221). The connecting portion (223) may protrude downward from the lower surface of the light source substrate (221).

The deodorizing filter (260) may be disposed below the substrate mounting member (210), the light source device (220), and the filter mounting member (230). The deodorizing filter (260) may include a plurality of filter cells (262). For example, the deodorizing filter (260) may include twelve filter cells (262). A filter opening (261) may be formed between the plurality of filter cells (262). The filter opening (261) may be surrounded by the plurality of filter cells (262). Air may pass through the filter opening (261) and the plurality of filter cells (262).

A light source device (220) may be mounted on the substrate mounting member (210) of the deodorizing device (200). The substrate mounting member (210) may be placed on top of the light source device (220). The substrate mounting member (210) may be placed on top of the light source device (220), the deodorizing filter (260), the filter mounting member (230), and the filter case (240, 250).

The substrate mounting member (210) may include a substrate mounting portion (211). The substrate mounting portion (211) may be provided on the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210). A light source substrate (221) may be placed on the substrate mounting portion (211). The number and shape of the substrate mounting portions (211) may correspond to the number and shape of the light source substrates (221). A plurality of substrate mounting portions (211) may be provided. For example, the substrate mounting portion (211) may be recessed upward, and the light source substrate (221) may be placed on the recessed substrate mounting portion (211).

The substrate mounting member (210) may include a substrate fixing member (212). The substrate fixing member (212) may protrude from the lower surface of the substrate mounting member (210). The substrate fixing member (212) may support the lower surface of the light source substrate (221), thereby preventing the light source substrate (221) from being separated. The substrate fixing member (212) may include a hook. A plurality of substrate fixing members (212) may be provided.

The substrate mounting member (210) can be coupled to the filter mounting member (230). The substrate mounting member (210) can include a fixing member (213). The fixing member (213) can be disposed on the inside of the filter mounting member (230) to fix the filter mounting member (230). For example, the fixing member (213) can be formed to surround the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210). The fixing member (213) can be formed at the edge of the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210). For example, the fixing member (213) can be formed at the front edge, the rear edge, the left edge, and the right edge of the opening (210a) of the substrate mounting member (210).

The deodorizing device (200) can be mounted on a filter mounting member (230). The filter mounting member (230) can cover the upper part of the deodorizing filter (260). The filter mounting member (230) can be positioned below the substrate mounting member (210) and the light source device (220), and above the deodorizing filter (260) and the filter case (240, 250).

The filter mounting member (230) may include a hole forming portion (232) and an opening (230a). The hole forming portion (232) may have an incline. For example, the hole forming portion (232) may be parallel to the light source substrate (221). The hole forming portion (232) may be formed to surround the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230). The hole forming portion (232) may be formed at an edge of the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230). For example, the hole forming portion (232) may be formed at a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge of the opening (230a) of the filter mounting member (230).

The hole forming portion (232) may include a plurality of holes (231). Light emitted from the light source (222) through the holes (231) may be irradiated to the filter cells (262). The plurality of holes (231) may correspond to a plurality of filter cells (262).

By slanting the light source substrate (221) and the hole forming portion (232) with respect to the deodorizing filter (260), the air flow resistance can be reduced. As the flow resistance is reduced, the noise of the air conditioner (1) can be reduced, and dust collection and deodorization can be performed more quickly.

The support member (233) of the filter mounting member (230) is positioned below the filter case (240, 250) to support the filter case (240, 250) and the deodorizing filter (260). The support member (233) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the multiple support members (233) may be positioned along the front-rear direction to support the edge of the second filter case (250).

The housing fixing portion (234) of the filter mounting member (230) can fix the deodorizing device (200) within the housing. The housing fixing portion (234) can protrude outward from the periphery of the filter mounting member (230). For example, the housing fixing portion (234) can be positioned between the support frame (19) and the case (110), thereby fixing the filter mounting member (230) and the deodorizing device (200) within the housing.

The filter case (240, 250) can fix the deodorizing filter (260). The filter case (240, 250) can include a first filter case (240) and a second filter case (250). The deodorizing filter (260) is placed between the first filter case (240) and the second filter case (250), thereby fixing the deodorizing filter (260). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the filter cases (240, 250) may be formed as a single member.

The first filter case (240) may be placed on the upper side of the deodorizing filter (260). The first filter case (240) may include a first opening (240a) and a second opening (240b). The first filter case (240) may include a first frame (242). The first frame (242) may form and/or partition the first opening (240a) and the second opening (240b).

A first opening (240a) may be formed in the center of the first filter case (240). The first opening (240a) may be surrounded by a second opening (240b). The second opening (240b) may correspond to a filter cell (262). A plurality of second openings (240b) may be provided, and each of the plurality of filter cells (262) may be arranged in the second opening (240b). The filter cells (262) arranged in the second opening (240b) may be fixed by the first frame (242).

The second filter case (250) may be placed on the lower side of the deodorizing filter (260). The second filter case (250) may form a third opening (250a) and a fourth opening (250b). The second filter case (250) may include a second frame (252). The second frame (252) may form and/or partition the third opening (250a) and the fourth opening (250b).

The third opening (250a) may be formed in the central portion of the second filter case (250). The third opening (250b) may be surrounded by the fourth opening (250b). The fourth opening (250b) may correspond to a filter cell (262). A plurality of fourth openings (250b) may be provided, and each of the plurality of filter cells (262) may be arranged in the fourth opening (250b). The filter cells (262) arranged in the fourth opening (250b) may be fixed by the second frame (252).

The first filter case (240) may include a first handle portion (241). The first handle portion (241) may be provided at one end of the first filter case (240). The second filter case (250) may include a second handle portion (251). The second handle portion (251) may be provided at one end of the second filter case (250). The first handle portion (241) of the first filter case (240) may be combined with the second handle portion (251) of the second filter case (250) to form a handle (241, 251) of the deodorizing device (200). A user may use the handles (241, 251) to insert the filter case (240, 250) equipped with the deodorizing filter (260) into the air conditioner (1) or to take it out of the air conditioner (1).

The second filter case (250) may include a position guide protrusion (253). The position guide protrusion (253) may guide the coupling position of the first filter case (240) and the second filter case (250). The position guide protrusion (253) may be provided around the third opening (250a) of the second filter case (250). The position guide protrusion (253) may be provided on the inside of the second frame (252). The position guide protrusion (253) may protrude upward from the second frame (252).

Fig. 10 is a control block diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Referring to Fig. 10, the air conditioner (1) may include a blower fan (30), a dust collector (50), a light source device (220), a memory (410), and a processor (420). In addition, the air conditioner (1) may further include at least one of a user interface (300), a communication interface (330), and a sensor (340).

The memory (410) can store programs and data for controlling the operation of the air conditioner (1). The processor (420) can be electrically connected to various components of the air conditioner (1) and control each of them.

The processor (420) may be hardware and include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor (420) may control electrically connected components of the air conditioner (1) using programs, instructions, and/or data stored in the memory (410) for the operation of the air conditioner (1). The processor (420) and the memory (410) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, one or more processors and one or more memories may be provided.

The processor (420) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator.

The memory (410) can store programs, applications, instructions and/or data for the operation of the air conditioner (1), and can store data generated by the processor (420). For example, the memory (410) can store programs, applications, instructions and/or data for performing cooling operation, heating operation and dehumidifying operation.

The memory (410) may include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory for long-term storage of data. The memory (410) may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data.

The memory (410) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the air conditioner (1) or may be implemented in the form of a memory that can be attached/detachable to the air conditioner (1) depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the air conditioner (1) may be stored in a memory embedded in the air conditioner (1). Data for expanding the functions of the air conditioner (1) may be stored in a memory that can be inserted/removed into the air conditioner (1).

The blower fan (30) can rotate to create air flow. When the blower fan (30) operates, air can move from the intake ports (13a, 14) of the air conditioner (1) to the exhaust port (13b). The processor (420) can control the blower fan (30) and adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan (30).

The processor (420) can control the wind speed of the blower fan (30). The blower fan (30) can operate at one of a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. For example, the wind speed of the blower fan (30) can be set to one of a first wind speed, a second wind speed, and a third wind speed. The first wind speed can represent the slowest wind speed. The third wind speed can represent the fastest wind speed. The second wind speed can represent a wind speed that is faster than the first wind speed and slower than the third wind speed. The first wind speed can be referred to as no wind or a breeze. The second wind speed can be referred to as a weak wind. The third wind speed can be referred to as a strong wind. The processor (420) can control the blower fan (30) to generate the set wind speed. The processor (420) can adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan (30) to generate the set wind speed.

The processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level detected by the sensor (340) among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. In addition, the processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) at a wind speed set through the user interface (300). The processor (420) can set the wind speed of the blower fan (30) based on a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface (300). For example, the processor (420) can set the wind speed of the blower fan (30) to a first wind speed, a second wind speed, or a third wind speed based on the wind speed setting signal. In other words, the processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) so that the wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level detected by the sensor (340) or the wind speed set through the user interface (300) is generated.

When the wind speed of the blower fan (30) is set based on a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface (300), the processor (420) may continuously operate the blower fan (30) at the set wind speed regardless of the air pollution level.

The dust collector (50) can capture aerosols in the air. For example, the dust collector (50) may include an electrostatic precipitator that generates ions to charge aerosols and captures the charged aerosols. The processor (420) can control the operation of the dust collector (50). The processor (420) can adjust the power supplied to the dust collector (50).

The light source device (220) can irradiate light to the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the light source (222) of the light source device (220) can irradiate UV-A light having a wavelength of 360 to 368 nm. The processor (420) can control the intensity of light emitted from the light source device (200) by controlling the power supplied to the light source device (220). The light source device (220) can be included in the deodorizing device (200). When light is irradiated to the deodorizing filter (260), odor substances adsorbed on the deodorizing filter (260) can be decomposed. As the odor substances adsorbed on the deodorizing filter (260) are photodecomposed, the deodorizing filter (260) can be regenerated.

The user interface (300) can acquire user input and output various information. The user interface (300) may include an input interface (310) and an output interface (320). The user can interact with the air conditioner (1) through the user interface (300).

The input interface (310) can acquire user input. The input interface (310) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the user input to the processor (420). The user input can include various commands. For example, the input interface (310) can acquire a power-on command, a power-off command, an operation mode setting command, a wind direction adjustment command, or a wind speed adjustment command. The user input can also be acquired from a user device (e.g., a mobile device, a smartphone). The processor (420) can control the air conditioner (1) based on the user input acquired through the input interface (310).

The input interface (310) may include various buttons. For example, the input interface (310) may include a power button for turning the air conditioner (1) on or off, an operation mode setting button for setting the operation mode of the air conditioner (1), a wind direction adjustment button for adjusting the wind direction, and a wind speed adjustment button for adjusting the wind speed. Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, an image, an icon, etc.) that can indicate its function.

A 'button' may be implemented as a UI element (User Interface Element), a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, and/or a touch screen. Additionally, the button may be replaced with a jog dial or a microphone.

The output interface (320) can be controlled by the processor (420) to output various information related to the operation of the air conditioner (1). For example, the output interface (320) can output various information such as the operation mode, wind direction, wind speed, and operation time of the air conditioner (1). The output interface (320) can output visual information and/or auditory information.

The output interface (320) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, a micro LED panel, and a speaker.

The output interface (320) can display information input by the user or information provided to the user on various screens. The output interface (320) can display information related to the operation of the air conditioner (1) in the form of at least one image or text. The output interface can display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables control of the air conditioner (1).

The communication interface (330) can perform wired and/or wireless communication with external devices (e.g., user devices, servers, home appliances, etc.). The communication interface (330) can be controlled to transmit data to the external device or receive data from the external device.

The communication interface (330) may include at least one of a short-range communication circuit or a long-range communication circuit. The communication interface (330) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication interface (330) may include a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a cellular communication circuit, a short-range wireless communication circuit, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication circuit) and/or a wired communication circuit (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication circuit, or a power line communication circuit).

The communication interface (330) can communicate with an external device via a short-range communication network (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a long-range communication network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN).

The short-range wireless communication circuit (short-range wireless communication module) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication circuit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication circuit, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication circuit, a Zigbee communication circuit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication circuit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication circuit, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication circuit, an Ant+ communication circuit, and a microwave (uWave) communication circuit.

A long-distance communication circuit may include communication circuits that perform various types of long-distance communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

Additionally, the communication interface (330) can communicate with an external device through an access point (AP).

The sensor (340) can detect air pollution levels. The sensor (340) can detect air pollution levels outside the air conditioner (1). The sensor (340) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected air pollution levels to the processor (420). The processor (420) can control the sensor (340) to detect air pollution levels at predetermined time intervals.

Various sensors may be provided to detect air pollution levels. For example, the sensor (340) may include at least one of a gas sensor that detects the concentration of various gases containing odorous substances and a dust sensor that detects the concentration of dust in the air. The air pollution level may include at least one of a gas concentration and a dust concentration.

The control configuration of the air conditioner (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 10. The air conditioner (1) may further include other configurations in addition to the illustrated configurations, or may not include some of the illustrated configurations. For example, the air conditioner (1) may further include a temperature sensor for detecting air temperature and a humidity sensor for detecting air humidity.

The processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. For example, when the air pollution level is relatively low, the processor (420) can determine the wind speed of the blower fan (30) as a first wind speed. The processor (420) can adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan (30) so that the first wind speed is generated. When the air pollution level changes to be relatively high, the processor (420) can determine the wind speed of the blower fan (30) as a second wind speed or a third wind speed. The processor (420) can adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan (30) so that the second wind speed or the third wind speed is generated.

The processor (420) can count the time that the blower fan (30) operates at each of a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. The processor (420) can store a plurality of accumulated operation time values for a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. For example, the processor (420) can obtain a plurality of accumulated operation time values for each of a first wind speed, a second wind speed, and a third wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a first accumulated operation time value by accumulating the time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the first wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a second accumulated operation time value by accumulating the time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the second wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a third accumulated operation time value by accumulating the time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the third wind speed.

The processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up a plurality of accumulated operation time values. For example, the processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up a first accumulated operation time value related to a first wind speed of the blower fan (30), a second accumulated operation time value related to a second wind speed of the blower fan (30), and a third accumulated operation time value related to a third wind speed of the blower fan (30).

Additionally, the processor (420) can obtain multiple correction time values by multiplying each of the multiple predetermined wind speed correction coefficients by each of the multiple accumulated operation time values. The processor (420) can also obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up the multiple correction time values.

The processor (420) can obtain multiple correction time values by multiplying the accumulated operation time value by a larger correction coefficient as the wind speed increases. The processor (420) can set the correction coefficient multiplied to the accumulated operation time value to be larger as the wind speed increases based on the correction coefficient data stored in the memory (410). As the wind speed of the blower fan (30) increases, the amount of odor substances adsorbed to the deodorizing filter (260) increases rapidly, and the deodorizing filter (260) can be saturated quickly. In order to reflect the phenomenon that the saturation speed of the deodorizing filter (260) increases as the wind speed increases, the disclosed air conditioner (1) can set a different correction coefficient multiplied to the accumulated operation time value depending on the wind speed.

The memory (410) may store correction factor data including correction factors for each of a plurality of wind speeds. For example, the correction factor data may include a first correction factor for a first wind speed, a second correction factor for a second wind speed, and a third correction factor for a third wind speed. The first correction factor may be the smallest, and the third correction factor may be the largest. The second correction factor may be larger than the first correction factor and smaller than the third correction factor.

The processor (420) can obtain a first correction time value by multiplying a first accumulated operation time value of a first wind speed by a first correction coefficient. The processor (420) can obtain a second correction time value by multiplying a second accumulated operation time value of a second wind speed by a second correction coefficient. The processor (420) can obtain a third correction time value by multiplying a third accumulated operation time value of a third wind speed by a third correction coefficient. The processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding the first correction time value of the first wind speed, the second correction time value of the second wind speed, and the third correction time value of the third wind speed.

The processor (420) can control the light source device (220) and the blower fan (30) to regenerate the deodorizing filter (260) based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching the threshold value. The processor (420) can operate the light source device (220) for a predetermined regeneration time to regenerate the deodorizing filter (260) and stop the blower fan (30). The regeneration time can be determined in various ways depending on the design. For example, the regeneration time can be 40 minutes. The light source device (220) can irradiate light to the deodorizing filter (260) during the regeneration time. The light irradiated to the deodorizing filter (260) can decompose odor substances adsorbed on the deodorizing filter (260). As the odor substances are decomposed, the deodorizing filter (260) can be regenerated.

The processor (420) can stop both the light source device (220) and the blower fan (30) for a predetermined waiting time after a predetermined playback time has elapsed. The waiting time can be set to various values depending on the design. For example, the waiting time can be 20 minutes. If the blower fan (30) is operated immediately after the playback time has elapsed, the substances generated by the decomposition of odorous substances in the deodorizing filter (260) may spread into the indoor space. By stopping the blower fan (30) for the waiting time after the playback time has elapsed, the spread of substances generated by the decomposition of odorous substances can be prevented.

The processor (420) can determine that the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) is completed when both the regeneration time and the standby time have elapsed. The processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) based on the elapsed time of a predetermined standby time. In other words, the processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) so that the air purification operation is performed when the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) is completed.

The processor (420) can control the user interface (300) to provide a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260) based on the total accumulated operating time value of the blower fan (30) reaching a threshold value. For example, the regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260) can be provided in the form of at least one of various texts, images, and sounds. The user interface (300) can display various graphical user interfaces (GUIs) related to the regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260).

Fig. 11 illustrates a regeneration process of a deodorizing filter according to one embodiment.

Referring to Fig. 11, when the blower fan (20) of the air conditioner (1) operates, air containing an odorous substance (OS) may be introduced into the deodorizing device (200). The deodorizing filter (260) included in the deodorizing device (200) may adsorb the odorous substance (OS). The deodorizing filter (260) may include a ceramic carrier and activated carbon. When an odorous substance comes into contact with the deodorizing filter (260) formed of the ceramic carrier and activated carbon, the deodorizing filter (260) may adsorb and fix the odorous substance. As the operating time of the blower fan (30) accumulates, the deodorizing filter (260) may become saturated. When the deodorizing filter (260) becomes saturated, its ability to adsorb odorous substances rapidly decreases. Therefore, a regeneration process is required to restore the adsorption ability of the deodorizing filter (260).

The light source device (220) can irradiate UV light to the deodorizing filter (260). The UV light irradiated to the deodorizing filter (260) can decompose odor substances. The substance (D) generated by the decomposition of the odor substances is no longer adsorbed to the deodorizing filter (260) and can escape from the deodorizing filter (260). When the deodorizing filter (260) is irradiated with UV light, the odor substances adsorbed to the deodorizing filter (260) can be removed. As the odor substances are removed from the deodorizing filter (260), the deodorizing filter (260) can be regenerated. The regeneration time of the deodorizing filter (260) can vary depending on the total accumulated operating time value of the blower fan (30).

Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Referring to Fig. 12, the air conditioner (1) can detect the level of air pollution outside the air conditioner (1) through a sensor (240) or receive a wind speed setting signal through a user interface (300) (1201).

The sensor (340) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected air pollution level to the processor (420). The processor (420) can control the sensor (340) to detect the air pollution level at predetermined time intervals. The sensor (340) can include at least one of a gas sensor that detects the concentration of various gases including odorous substances and a dust sensor that detects the concentration of dust in the air.

The processor (420) can set the wind speed of the blower fan (30) based on a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface (300). For example, the processor (420) can set the wind speed of the blower fan (30) to a first wind speed, a second wind speed, or a third wind speed based on the wind speed setting signal.

In other words, the processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) to generate a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level detected by the sensor (340) or the wind speed setting signal received through the user interface (300).

When the wind speed of the blower fan (30) is set based on a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface (300), the processor (420) may continuously operate the blower fan (30) at the set wind speed regardless of the air pollution level.

The processor (420) of the air conditioner (1) can operate the blower fan (30) at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level (1202). The processor (420) can operate the blower fan (30) at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. The wind speed of the blower fan (30) can be set to one of a plurality of predetermined wind speeds. For example, the wind speed of the blower fan (30) can be set to one of a first wind speed, a second wind speed, and a third wind speed. The first wind speed can represent the slowest wind speed. The third wind speed can represent the fastest wind speed. The second wind speed can represent a wind speed that is faster than the first wind speed and slower than the third wind speed. The processor (420) can adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan (30) so that a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level is generated.

The processor (420) can count the time that the blower fan (30) operates at each of a plurality of predetermined wind speeds (1203). For example, the processor (420) can distinguish and cumulatively count the time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the first wind speed, the second wind speed, and the third wind speed, respectively.

The processor (420) can store a plurality of accumulated operation time values for a plurality of predetermined wind speeds (1204). For example, the processor (420) can obtain a plurality of accumulated operation time values for each of a first wind speed, a second wind speed, and a third wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a first accumulated operation time value by accumulating a time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the first wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a second accumulated operation time value by accumulating a time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the second wind speed. The processor (420) can obtain a third accumulated operation time value by accumulating a time that the blower fan (30) operates to generate the third wind speed.

The processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up multiple accumulated operation time values (1205). For example, the processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up a first accumulated operation time value regarding a first wind speed of the blower fan (30), a second accumulated operation time value regarding a second wind speed of the blower fan (30), and a third accumulated operation time value regarding a third wind speed of the blower fan (30).

The processor (420) can identify whether the total accumulated operating time value reaches a threshold value (1206). Based on whether the total accumulated operating time value reaches the threshold value, the processor (420) can perform a regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) (1207). The processor (420) can control the light source device (220) and the blower fan (30) to regenerate the deodorizing filter (260).

Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining the total accumulated operation time value described in Figure 12.

Referring to FIG. 13, the processor (420) can obtain a plurality of correction time values by multiplying a correction coefficient for each of a plurality of predetermined wind speeds by each of a plurality of accumulated operation time values (1301). The processor (420) can obtain a plurality of correction time values by multiplying a larger correction coefficient by the accumulated operation time value as the wind speed increases. Based on the correction coefficient data stored in the memory (410), the processor (420) can set a larger correction coefficient to be multiplied by the accumulated operation time value as the wind speed increases.

The memory (410) may store correction factor data including correction factors for each of a plurality of wind speeds. For example, the correction factor data may include a first correction factor for a first wind speed, a second correction factor for a second wind speed, and a third correction factor for a third wind speed. The first correction factor may be the smallest, and the third correction factor may be the largest. The second correction factor may be larger than the first correction factor and smaller than the third correction factor.

The processor (420) can obtain a first correction time value by multiplying a first accumulated operation time value of a first wind speed by a first correction coefficient. The processor (420) can obtain a second correction time value by multiplying a second accumulated operation time value of a second wind speed by a second correction coefficient. The processor (420) can obtain a third correction time value by multiplying a third accumulated operation time value of a third wind speed by a third correction coefficient.

The processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up multiple correction time values (1302). The processor (420) can obtain a total accumulated operation time value by adding up a first correction time value of a first wind speed, a second correction time value of a second wind speed, and a third correction time value of a third wind speed.

Fig. 14 is a flowchart explaining the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter described in Fig. 12.

Referring to FIG. 14, the processor (420) of the air conditioner (1) can turn on the light source device (220) and turn off the blower fan (30) to regenerate the deodorizing filter (260) (1401). The processor (420) can operate the light source device (220) for a predetermined regeneration time to regenerate the deodorizing filter (260) and stop the blower fan (30). The regeneration time can be determined in various ways depending on the design. The light source device (220) can irradiate light to the deodorizing filter (260) during the regeneration time.

The processor (420) can turn off the light source device (220) and the blower fan (30) when a predetermined playback time has elapsed (1402, 1403). The processor (420) can stop both the light source device (220) and the blower fan (30) for a predetermined waiting time after the predetermined playback time has elapsed. The waiting time can be determined in various ways depending on the design.

The processor (420) may terminate the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) when the waiting time has elapsed (1404, 1405). The processor (420) may determine that the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) is completed when both the regeneration time and the waiting time have elapsed. The processor (420) may turn off the light source device (220) and turn on the blower fan (30) based on the elapsed waiting time (1406). When the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) has ended, the processor (420) may operate the blower fan (30) so that an air purification operation is performed.

FIG. 15 illustrates a user interface providing filter management notifications according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, the input interface (310) of the user interface (300) may include various buttons. For example, the input interface (310) may include a power button (311) for turning the power of the air conditioner (1) on or off and an operation mode setting button (312) for setting the operation mode of the air conditioner (1). The output interface (320) of the user interface (300) may include a display (321) and an LED bar (322).

The air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to provide notifications regarding the management of the dust collector (50) and the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the notifications regarding the management of the dust collector (50) and the deodorizing filter (260) can be provided in the form of at least one of various texts, images, and sounds. The user interface (300) can display various graphical user interfaces (GUIs).

For example, the air conditioner (1) can control the display (321) of the user interface (300) to display a filter management notification regarding the management of the dust collector (50) and the deodorizing filter (260) in text based on the total accumulated operating time value of the blower fan (30) reaching a threshold value. The filter management notification can be provided in the form of text such as 'Please manage the filter'. In addition, the air conditioner (1) can control the LED bar (322) to emit light in a pattern (e.g., briefly blinking) and color (e.g., red) corresponding to the filter management notification.

FIG. 16 illustrates a user interface providing a filter regeneration notification according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 16, the air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to provide a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to provide a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260) to perform regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) based on the total accumulated operating time value of the blower fan (30) reaching a threshold value.

For example, the playback notification of the deodorizing filter (260) may be provided in the form of at least one of various texts, images, and sounds. The user interface (300) may display various graphical user interfaces (GUIs) related to the playback notification of the deodorizing filter (260).

After the filter management notification described in Fig. 15 is provided, a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter (260) may be provided. However, depending on the design, the filter management notification may be omitted.

The air conditioner (1) can control the display (321) of the user interface (300) to display a notification message notifying the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) before starting the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260). For example, the notification message notifying the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) can be provided with text such as 'Reset the filter usage time and regenerate the filter.' The filter usage time can correspond to the total accumulated operation time value described above.

Additionally, the air conditioner (1) can control the display (321) to display a graphical user interface to inform that the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) can be approved by pressing the power button (311) or the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) can be canceled by pressing the operation mode setting button (312).

When a user presses the power button (311), the air conditioner (1) can immediately perform the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260). Even when the user does not press the power button (311) within a certain period of time, the air conditioner (1) can perform the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260).

FIG. 17 illustrates a user interface that provides information regarding the regeneration operation of a deodorizing filter according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 17, the air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to provide information regarding the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260). For example, information regarding the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) can be provided through the display (321) of the user interface (300). Information regarding the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) can be provided as text including a message indicating that the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) is being performed and the time remaining until the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) is completed.

FIG. 18 illustrates a user interface providing a ventilation notification according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, the air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to provide a ventilation notification guiding ventilation of an indoor space. For example, the air conditioner (1) can display a ventilation notification guiding ventilation of an indoor space through the display (321) with text such as "Please ventilate the room for a more comfortable environment."

The air conditioner (1) can control the user interface (300) to alternately display information regarding the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) described in Fig. 17 and the ventilation notification described in Fig. 18. In addition, the air conditioner (1) can control the LED bar (322) to emit light in a pattern (e.g., long blinking) and color (e.g., white) corresponding to the regeneration operation of the deodorizing filter (260) being performed.

The air conditioner (1) can also control the user interface (300) to display only the remaining time until the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) is completed after displaying a message indicating that the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) is being performed and a ventilation notification in a predetermined number of times (e.g., 10 times).

In addition to those exemplified, the air conditioner (1) can provide notifications regarding the management of the dust collector (50) and the deodorizing filter (260) and the regeneration of the deodorizing filter (260) in various ways.

An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment may include a sensor for detecting air pollution levels; a blower fan for moving air from an intake port to an exhaust port of the air conditioner; a deodorizing filter for adsorbing odor substances in the air sucked in through the intake port; a light source device for irradiating light onto the deodorizing filter; a user interface; and a processor. The processor may operate the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level or a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds, and may store a plurality of cumulative operation time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by counting the time for which the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds, and may obtain a total cumulative operation time value by adding up the plurality of cumulative operation time values, and may control the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total cumulative operation time value reaching a threshold value.

The processor can obtain a plurality of correction time values by multiplying each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by a correction coefficient, and obtain the total cumulative operation time value by adding up the plurality of correction time values.

The above processor can obtain the plurality of correction time values by multiplying the accumulated operating time value by a correction coefficient that is larger as the wind speed increases.

The processor may operate the light source device for a predetermined regeneration time to regenerate the deodorizing filter and stop the blower fan. The processor may stop both the light source device and the blower fan for a predetermined waiting time after the predetermined regeneration time has elapsed.

The processor can reset the plurality of accumulated operation time values and the total accumulated operation time value based on the elapse of the predetermined playback time.

The processor may operate the blower fan based on the elapse of the predetermined waiting time.

The disclosed air conditioner may further include a user interface; wherein the processor may control the user interface to provide a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching the threshold value.

In a method for controlling an air conditioner, the method may include: operating the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to an air pollution level detected by a sensor among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds or a wind speed setting signal received through a user interface; storing a plurality of accumulated operation time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by counting the time for which the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds; obtaining a total accumulated operation time value by adding up the plurality of accumulated operation time values; and controlling the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operation time value reaching a threshold value.

Obtaining the total accumulated operation time value may include: obtaining a plurality of correction time values by multiplying each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds by a correction coefficient, and obtaining the total accumulated operation time value by adding up the plurality of correction time values.

Obtaining the plurality of correction time values may include obtaining the plurality of correction time values by multiplying the accumulated operation time value by a correction coefficient that is larger as the wind speed increases.

Controlling the light source device and the blower fan may include operating the light source device for a predetermined regeneration time to regenerate the deodorizing filter and stopping the blower fan; and stopping both the light source device and the blower fan for a predetermined standby time after the predetermined regeneration time has elapsed.

The above control method may further include resetting the plurality of accumulated operation time values and the total accumulated operation time value based on the elapse of the predetermined playback time.

Controlling the light source device and the blower fan may include operating the blower fan based on the elapse of the predetermined waiting time.

The above control method may further include providing a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter through a user interface based on the total accumulated operation time value reaching the threshold value.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can automatically perform regeneration of a deodorizing filter.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can determine the start time of regeneration of a deodorizing filter by storing and correcting the accumulated operating time for each wind speed of a blower fan.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can determine whether to regenerate the deodorizing filter by considering the operation of the blower fan at various wind speeds. This prevents the deodorizing filter from being used in a degraded state and enhances its deodorizing effect. Furthermore, since the deodorizing filter is regenerated at an appropriate time, the generation of unpleasant odors from the deodorizing filter can be prevented.

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

The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

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.

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., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play 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.

The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims (14)

A sensor that detects air pollution levels; A blower fan that moves air from the intake to the exhaust of an air conditioner; A deodorizing filter that absorbs odorous substances in the air sucked in through the suction port; A light source device that irradiates light with the above deodorizing filter; User interface; and Processor; including; The above processor Operate the blower fan at a wind speed corresponding to the air pollution level among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds or a wind speed setting signal received through the user interface, By counting the time that the above blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds, a plurality of accumulated operating time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds are stored, The above multiple accumulated operation time values are added together to obtain a total accumulated operation time value, An air conditioner that controls the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching a threshold value. In the first paragraph, The above processor A plurality of correction time values are obtained by multiplying each of the plurality of predetermined wind speed correction coefficients by each of the plurality of accumulated operation time values, An air conditioner that obtains the total accumulated operating time value by adding up the above multiple correction time values. In the second paragraph, The above processor An air conditioner that obtains the above multiple correction time values by multiplying the accumulated operating time value by a larger correction coefficient as the wind speed increases. In the first paragraph, The above processor To regenerate the deodorizing filter, the light source device is operated for a predetermined regeneration time, and the blower fan is stopped. An air conditioner that stops both the light source device and the blower fan for a predetermined waiting time after the predetermined playback time has elapsed. In paragraph 4, The above processor An air conditioner that resets the plurality of accumulated operation time values and the total accumulated operation time value based on the elapse of the predetermined regeneration time. In paragraph 4, The above processor An air conditioner that operates the blower fan based on the elapse of the predetermined waiting time. In the first paragraph, The above processor An air conditioner that controls the user interface to provide a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching the threshold value. In a method for controlling an air conditioner, the method comprises: a blower fan, a deodorizing filter, a light source device for irradiating light to the deodorizing filter, and a processor; By the processor, the blower fan is operated at a wind speed corresponding to an air pollution level detected by a sensor among a plurality of predetermined wind speeds or a wind speed setting signal received through a user interface; By counting the time that the blower fan operates at each of the plurality of predetermined wind speeds, a plurality of accumulated operating time values for the plurality of predetermined wind speeds are stored; The above multiple accumulated operation time values are added together to obtain a total accumulated operation time value; A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: controlling the light source device and the blower fan to regenerate the deodorizing filter based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching a threshold value. In paragraph 8, Obtaining the above total accumulated operation time value is: A plurality of correction time values are obtained by multiplying each of the plurality of predetermined wind speed correction coefficients by each of the plurality of accumulated operation time values; A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: obtaining the total accumulated operating time value by adding up the plurality of correction time values. In paragraph 9, Obtaining the above multiple correction time values is: A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: multiplying a larger correction coefficient as the wind speed increases by the accumulated operating time value to obtain the plurality of correction time values. In paragraph 8, Controlling the above light source device and the above blower fan, To regenerate the deodorizing filter, the light source device is operated for a predetermined regeneration time and the blower fan is stopped; A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: stopping both the light source device and the blower fan for a predetermined waiting time after the predetermined playback time has elapsed. In Article 11, A control method for an air conditioner, further comprising resetting the plurality of accumulated operation time values and the total accumulated operation time value based on the elapse of the predetermined regeneration time. In Article 11, Controlling the above light source device and the above blower fan, A control method for an air conditioner, comprising: operating the blower fan based on the elapse of the predetermined waiting time. In paragraph 8, A control method of an air conditioner, further comprising: providing a regeneration notification of the deodorizing filter through a user interface based on the total accumulated operating time value reaching the threshold value;