CN114278992B

CN114278992B - Air conditioner including light source module and method of operating the same

Info

Publication number: CN114278992B
Application number: CN202210001944.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 郑栽鹤; 朱炳哲; 郑雄基; 郑相旭
Original assignee: Seoul Viosys Co Ltd
Current assignee: Seoul Viosys Co Ltd
Priority date: 2017-09-28
Filing date: 2018-09-28
Publication date: 2024-03-22
Anticipated expiration: 2038-09-28
Also published as: CN114278991A; CN114278992A; CN111183319A; WO2019066550A1; CN114278991B; CN111183319B

Abstract

The application relates to a light source module and an air conditioner comprising the same. The light source module according to an embodiment of the present application includes: a substrate; a light source attached to the front surface of the substrate and emitting ultraviolet rays; a transparent portion which is positioned in the front direction of the substrate and transmits the ultraviolet rays; and a case surrounding the substrate and the light source, wherein the case includes an opening that exposes at least a part of the light source and the substrate, the transparent portion is provided in the opening, and the light source module irradiates the ultraviolet light between the plurality of heat exchange plates. The light source module and the air conditioner including the same according to the embodiments of the present application can effectively perform a sterilization operation on an evaporator.

Description

Air conditioner including light source module and method of operating the same

The present application is a divisional application of the invention patent application having a filing date of 2018, 09, 28, 201880063018.2 and a title of "air conditioner including a light source module and a method of operating the same".

Technical Field

The application relates to a light source module and an air conditioner comprising the same.

Background

When air conditioning is performed using an air conditioner, there is a biggest problem in that the evaporator temperature of the air conditioner is lower than the air temperature, and thus condensation is generated at the evaporator, thereby causing bacteria or mold to proliferate around the evaporator. In order to increase the heat exchange efficiency, air is forced to circulate through the evaporator, and thus, these molds and bacteria float in the indoor air to be air-conditioned. Therefore, a technique capable of suppressing the proliferation of bacteria or performing sterilization is required.

Disclosure of Invention

Technical problem

An object of the present application is to provide a light source module capable of performing a sterilization operation on an evaporator inside an air conditioner, and an air conditioner including the same.

Technical proposal

The light source module according to an embodiment of the present application includes: a substrate; a light source attached to the front surface of the substrate and emitting ultraviolet rays; a transparent portion which is positioned in the front direction of the substrate and transmits the ultraviolet rays; and a case surrounding the substrate and the light source, wherein the case includes an opening that exposes at least a part of the light source and the substrate, the transparent portion is provided in the opening, and the light source module irradiates the ultraviolet light between the plurality of heat exchange plates.

In an embodiment, the opening portion includes: an opening side wall inclined toward the light source direction; and an opening upper surface parallel to the substrate and formed at one end of the opening side wall, wherein the transparent portion is disposed on the opening upper surface.

In an embodiment, the opening upper surface is formed at an end of the opening side wall opposite to the light source, and the transparent portion is spaced apart from the substrate by a predetermined distance through the opening side wall.

In an embodiment, the opening upper surface is formed at an end portion in the light source direction among end portions of the opening side walls, and the opening upper surface is provided in a form of being in contact with the substrate and the transparent portion.

In an embodiment, further comprising: and a pressing member for fixing the substrate and the transparent portion, wherein at least a part of the transparent portion is disposed inside the case.

In an embodiment, the housing includes an upper housing and a lower housing formed with the opening, the opening includes an opening side wall inclined toward the light source direction, the substrate is disposed between the upper housing and the pressing member, and the transparent portion is disposed between the pressing member and the opening side wall.

In an embodiment, the opening portion includes: the upper end of the side wall of the opening part is inclined towards the direction of the light source; and an opening side wall lower end inclined in the light source direction and forming a clip shape together with the opening side wall upper end, the transparent portion being provided between the opening side wall upper end and the opening side wall lower end.

In an embodiment, the housing further comprises: and a fastening portion extending parallel to the plurality of heat exchange plates and disposed in the space between the plurality of heat exchange plates.

In an embodiment, the housing further comprises: and a spacer extending in a first direction parallel to a direction in which the plurality of heat exchange plates extend, wherein a length of the spacer in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction is longer than a spacing distance in the second direction between two heat exchange plates adjacent to each other among the plurality of heat exchange plates.

In an embodiment, the length of the spacer in the first direction is greater than the length of the fastening portion in the first direction.

In an embodiment, the light source module further comprises: at least one light source attached to the front surface of the substrate; and at least one transparent part positioned in the front direction of the substrate, wherein the at least one transparent part corresponds to the at least one light source.

In an embodiment, further comprising: a base that fixes the base plate and is rotatable along a pivot; a pivot ring surrounding the base; and a protection tube for protecting the base plate and the light source, wherein the housing is fastened to the base plate and the base, the light source has a pointing angle with reference to a direction, and the direction is changed within a predetermined angle with reference to the pivot.

In an embodiment, the base plate extends longer in one direction, and the base is provided at least one of both end portions of the base plate and fastened to the pivot ring.

In an embodiment, the pivot ring comprises a stop defining the rotation angle of the base, the stop protruding from the pivot ring in the direction of the base, the base having a catch table rotating within the angle defined by the stop.

In an embodiment, further comprising: and a rotation adjusting part controlling a rotation operation of the base, wherein the rotation adjusting part rotates the base based on whether a sterilization operation time of the light source reaches a reference time.

In an embodiment, the plurality of heat exchange plates are arranged on the evaporator, and the rotation adjusting portion rotates the base in the following manner: so that a first region of the evaporator performing a sterilization operation before performing a rotation operation of the base and a second region of the evaporator performing a sterilization operation after performing a rotation operation of the base do not overlap each other.

In an embodiment, an air conditioner includes: an evaporator including a plurality of heat exchange plates; and a light source module that is provided to the evaporator and irradiates ultraviolet rays toward a space between the plurality of heat exchange plates, wherein the light source module includes: a substrate; a light source attached to the front surface of the substrate and emitting ultraviolet rays; a transparent portion which is positioned in the front direction of the substrate and transmits the ultraviolet rays; and a case surrounding the substrate and the light source, wherein the case includes an opening portion exposing at least a part of the light source and the substrate, and the transparent portion is provided in the opening portion.

In an embodiment, the evaporator comprises a guide rail equipped with a guide groove along which the light source module is movable.

In an embodiment, further comprising: the timer is used for checking the running time of the air conditioner; and a control part controlling the light source module and the timer, wherein the control part judges whether the operation time of the air conditioner reaches a predetermined time period based on information provided from the timer, and the light source module performs a sterilization operation according to the control of the control part in the case that the operation time of the air conditioner reaches the predetermined time period.

In an embodiment, further comprising: and an auxiliary power supply unit for supplying power to the light source module when the external power supply is turned off.

Advantageous effects

The light source module and the air conditioner including the same according to the embodiments of the present application can effectively perform a sterilization operation on an evaporator.

Drawings

Fig. 1a and 1b are diagrams illustrating an air conditioning system according to an embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 2a is a front view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 2b is a sectional view of the air conditioner of fig. 2a taken along the line I-I'.

Fig. 3a is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the light source module.

Fig. 3b is a cross-sectional view of the light source module of fig. 3a taken along the line A-A'.

Fig. 4a is a perspective view showing an overall appearance of a light source module according to an embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 4b is an exploded perspective view of the light source module of fig. 4 a.

Fig. 4c is a cross-sectional view of the light source module of fig. 4a taken along the line A1-A1'.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 8a is a cross-sectional view of a light source according to an embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-B-B '-A' of FIG. 8 a.

Fig. 9 is a view schematically showing a pattern in which the light source module of fig. 3a to 7 is disposed at an evaporator.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module according to another embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 13a is a view schematically showing a light source module movable along a guide rail provided to an evaporator.

Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section taken along the line B-B' of fig. 13 a.

Fig. 14 is a block diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the air conditioner of fig. 14.

Fig. 16a is a view schematically showing a light source module movable along a guide rail provided to an evaporator.

Fig. 16b is a perspective view illustrating the light source module of fig. 16a in more detail.

Fig. 16c to 16e are cross-sectional views illustrating a cross-section of the light source module of fig. 16 b.

Fig. 17 is a block diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the air conditioner of fig. 17.

Best mode for carrying out the invention

Detailed Description

The invention is capable of many modifications and its several forms, and its specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the present specification. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but includes all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

In describing the various drawings, like reference numerals are used for like components. In the drawings, the size of the structures is shown exaggerated in comparison with the actual ones for the sake of clarity of the present invention. The terms first, second, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements should not be limited by the terms. The term is used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, a first component may be termed a second component, and, similarly, a second component may be termed a first component, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Unless clearly indicated to the contrary in the context, singular forms include plural forms.

In this application, the terms "comprises" or "comprising" and the like are used to refer to the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, elements or combinations thereof recited in the specification, and do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or numbers, steps, operations, components, elements or combinations thereof. Also, when a portion of a layer, film, region, plate, or the like is referred to as being "on" another portion, it includes not only the case where it is "directly" on "another portion, but also the case where there is another portion therebetween. In this specification, when a portion of a certain layer, film, region, plate, or the like is referred to as being formed on another portion (on), the forming direction is not limited to the upper direction, but includes a case of being formed in a side or lower direction. Conversely, when a portion of a layer, film, region, plate, or the like is referred to as being "under" another portion, it includes not only the case where it is "directly under" the other portion, but also the case where there is another portion therebetween.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1a and 1b are diagrams illustrating an air conditioning system 10 according to an embodiment of the present application. Specifically, fig. 1a is a block diagram schematically illustrating an air conditioning system 10 according to an embodiment of the present application. Fig. 1b is a diagram illustrating the light source module 100 and the evaporator 12_2 of fig. 1a in further detail.

Referring to fig. 1a and 1b, an air conditioning system 10 includes an outdoor unit 11 and an indoor unit 12. The outdoor unit 11 includes a compressor 11_1 and a condenser 11_2, and the indoor unit 12 includes an expansion valve 12_1, an evaporator 12_2, and a light source module 100 provided to the evaporator 12_2.

Looking at the configuration of the outdoor unit 11, the compressor 11_1 sucks the low-temperature low-pressure gas refrigerant evaporated in the evaporator 12_2. The compressor 11_1 increases the pressure of the gas refrigerant, and discharges the gas refrigerant having the increased pressure.

The condenser 11_2 exchanges heat between the high-temperature and high-pressure gas refrigerant discharged from the compressor 11_1 and ambient air or cooling water to release heat from the gas refrigerant. At this time, the gas refrigerant releases heat and condenses to liquefy. The air heated by the heat released in this process is discharged to the outside by a blower (not shown). The liquefied refrigerant flows into the indoor unit 12.

Observing the structure of the indoor unit 12, the expansion valve 12_1 reduces the pressure of the liquefied refrigerant. That is, the expansion valve 12_1 reduces the pressure of the liquefied refrigerant so that evaporation easily occurs in the evaporator 12_2.

The evaporator 12_2 evaporates the low-temperature low-pressure liquid refrigerant passing through the expansion valve 12_1, and the evaporated refrigerant exchanges heat with the indoor air. Next, the refrigerant in the gas state after the heat exchange moves to the compressor 11_1. By repeating the circulation process of the refrigerant as described above, the refrigerant evaporated at the evaporator 12_2 performs the function of lowering the temperature of the indoor air.

In an embodiment according to the technical idea of the present application, the light source module 100 is disposed at the evaporator 12_2. The light source module 100 irradiates ultraviolet rays having a wavelength having a sterilizing effect to the evaporator 12_2, thereby performing a sterilizing operation with respect to bacteria or mold around the evaporator 12_2.

More specifically, as shown in fig. 1b, the evaporator 12_2 generally has a configuration in which a plurality of heat exchange plates are aligned at small intervals. For example, for a small air conditioner, the interval between the heat exchange plates may be 1 to 2mm. As described above, since the interval between the heat exchange plates of the evaporator 12_2 is quite narrow, the water droplets do not flow down in the gravitational direction due to the surface tension of the water droplets, but remain in a condensed state as they are in situ, whereby bacteria, mold, or the like can be propagated.

In order to perform a sterilization operation for such bacteria, mold, or the like, the light source module 100 according to an embodiment of the present application performs a sterilization operation for the evaporator 12_2. In particular, the light source module 100 irradiates ultraviolet rays toward the space between the plurality of heat exchange plates while being provided to the evaporator 12_2 in such a manner as to occupy only the minimum space. For example, the light source module 100 includes a fastening portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the substrate on which the light source is mounted, the fastening portion being inserted and coupled to the intervals between the plurality of heat exchange plates, so that the light source module 100 can be provided to the evaporator 12_2.

As described above, the air conditioning system 10 according to the embodiment of the present application includes the light source module 100 for performing the sterilization operation for the evaporator 12_2, the light source module 100 being provided to the evaporator 12_2 to irradiate ultraviolet rays toward the space between the plurality of heat exchange plates. Accordingly, the air conditioning system 10 according to the embodiment of the present application can sterilize bacteria, mold, etc. propagated in the evaporator 12_2. Furthermore, the light source module 100 according to the embodiment of the present application is closely disposed to the evaporator 12_2, thereby maintaining sterilizing power to the maximum extent, while having an advantage in that miniaturization can be achieved without a separate space for disposing the light source module 100.

In addition, it should be understood that the foregoing description is illustrative, and the technical idea of the present application can be variously applied and applied. Hereinafter, various application examples and application examples referred to in the present application will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 2a and 2b are diagrams schematically illustrating an air conditioner 20 according to an embodiment of the present application. Specifically, fig. 2a is a front view of the air conditioner 20 according to an embodiment of the present application, and fig. 2b is a sectional view of the air conditioner 20 of fig. 2a taken along a line of interception I-I'.

Referring to fig. 2a and 2b, the air conditioner 20 includes a main body 21, an air inlet 22, an evaporator 23, an air circulator 24, an air outlet 25, and a light source module 200.

The main body 21 forms the external appearance of the air conditioner 20. For example, the main body 21 may be an indoor unit of a wall-mounted air conditioner. However, this is exemplary, and the main body 21 may be an indoor unit of a floor air conditioner, and may be an indoor unit of a system air conditioner (system air conditioner).

The air inlet 22 provides a passage for air in the room to flow into the air conditioner 20. The air flowing into the inside of the air conditioner 20 through the air inlet 22 is supplied to the evaporator 23. The evaporator 23 performs a heat exchange operation for air flowing into the inside. That is, the inflow air transfers heat to the refrigerant vaporized in the evaporator 23, thereby lowering the temperature of the inflow air. The low-temperature air is guided to the air discharge port 25 by the air circulator 24 and discharged into the room again through the air discharge port 25.

In the embodiment according to the technical idea of the present application, the light source module 200 is provided to the evaporator 23. The light source module 200 is closely disposed to the evaporator 23, and performs a sterilization operation with respect to the evaporator 23.

Although not shown, a filter for filtering fine particles such as dust may be additionally provided on the front surface of the evaporator 23 (i.e., between the evaporator 23 and the air inlet 22). A deodorizing filter for deodorizing the air flowing in may be additionally provided on the back surface of the evaporator 23 (i.e., between the evaporator 23 and the main body 21).

In another embodiment of the present application, the air conditioner 20 may additionally include a photocatalyst layer for a photocatalytic reaction, although not shown.

For example, the air conditioner 20 according to another embodiment of the present application may additionally include a photocatalyst filter, and the light source of the light source module 200 may radiate ultraviolet rays toward the photocatalyst filter. As another example, the photocatalyst material may be coated on a plurality of plates of the evaporator 23, and the light source of the light source module 200 may radiate ultraviolet rays toward the region coated with the photocatalyst material. In this case, the organic compound may be decomposed by a photocatalytic reaction and bacteria may be sterilized, thereby further improving deodorizing and sterilizing effects.

Fig. 3a and 3b are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of the light source module 200 of fig. 2a and 2 b. Specifically, fig. 3a is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the light source module 200, and fig. 3b is a sectional view taken along the line A-A'.

Referring to fig. 3a and 3b, the light source module 200 includes a housing 210, a fastening portion 220, a light source 230, a substrate 240, a transparent portion 250, and a connector 260.

The case 210 forms an external appearance of the light source module 200. The housing 210 is provided therein with a space for accommodating the substrate 240 and the light source 230 and the connector 260 attached to the front surface of the substrate 240. Also, the housing 210 is provided with fastening portions 220 for being interposed between the plurality of heat exchange plates included in the evaporator 23.

For example, as shown in fig. 3b, the housing 210 may be divided into an upper housing 211 and a lower housing 212, and the upper housing 211 and the lower housing 212 may be coupled to each other by a hook coupling. For example, the upper case 211 may be formed with a locking portion 213_1 extending in the longitudinal direction, and the lower case 212 may be formed with a locking groove 213_2 to which the locking portion 213_1 is hooked. However, this is exemplary, and the upper case 211 and the lower case 212 may be implemented to be coupled by various coupling methods such as a screw coupling method, an insertion coupling method, a screw coupling method, and the like.

The housing 210 may be constructed using a variety of materials. The case 210 may be formed of a polymer resin, but is not limited thereto, and may be formed of other materials having durability capable of accommodating the light source 230 and the substrate 240. The housing 210 may be constructed using a metal material such as aluminum, stainless steel, or the like. Also, the case 210 may be formed using one material or two or more materials. For example, the lower housing 212 may be formed of a metal such as aluminum, and the upper housing 211 may be formed of a polymer resin or the like.

The fastening portion 220 is formed at the housing 210, particularly, at the lower surface of the lower housing 212. For example, the fastening part 220 may be formed to extend in a direction perpendicular to a plane extending along the substrate 240. As shown in fig. 9, the fastening part 220 may be disposed in a direction parallel to the plurality of heat exchange plates of the evaporator 23 so as to be interposed in a space between the plurality of heat exchange plates.

The fastening parts 220 may be formed to be symmetrically disposed at both edge portions of the lower case 212, for example. For example, as shown in the drawing, the fastening part 220 may include a first fastening part 221 and a second fastening part 222, and the first fastening part 221 and the second fastening part 222 may be formed to face each other at both edge portions of the lower case 212.

The first fastening portion 221 and the second fastening portion 222 may be formed to include a plurality of fastening legs, respectively. For example, as shown in fig. 3a, the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion may be formed to include three fastening legs, respectively. However, this is exemplary, and the shape, pattern, number, and the like of the fastening portion 220 are not particularly limited as long as it can be fastened between the plurality of heat exchange plates of the evaporator 23.

The light source 230 is attached to the substrate 240, and irradiates ultraviolet rays. For example, the light source 230 may emit ultraviolet rays having a sterilizing effect toward the evaporator 23. For example, the light source 230 may be a light emitting diode chip (Light emitting diode chip) emitting ultraviolet rays of a wavelength band of 200nm to 280nm as a UVC region. However, this is exemplary, and the type and emission wavelength of the light source 230 are not limited as long as the emitted ultraviolet rays have a sterilizing effect.

The light source 230 may be provided in the form of a metal can or an injection molded lead frame package that can be surface mounted on the substrate 240, or in the form of a through-hole mountable (Through Hole Monting). The light source 230 may be mounted in a Bare (Bare) chip or a flip chip type, and thus may constitute a Chip On Board (COB) package, and may be provided in a form of being attached to an intermediate substrate (Sub-mount) used for improving heat dissipation characteristics or electrical characteristics.

The substrate 240 extends in one direction and is attached with the light source 230 on its front surface. The substrate 240 may be electrically connected to the light source 230 and provide power received from the outside to the light source 230. For this purpose, a connector 260 for supplying external power may be additionally mounted on the front surface of the substrate 240.

The substrate 240 may be, for example, a circuit substrate, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a metal substrate, a ceramic substrate. However, this is exemplary, and the type and material of the substrate 240 are not particularly limited as long as it can be electrically connected to the light source 230. The substrate 240 may be formed in a Plate (Plate) shape having a predetermined thickness and strength, so that bending deformation does not occur due to the weight of the substrate 240 and the weight of the light source 230 in a state where at least one of both ends in the longitudinal direction thereof is supported.

The transparent portion 250 is disposed at an opening formed at the lower case 212. For example, the transparent portion 250 may be formed in a shape corresponding to an opening formed in the lower case 212. For example, in the case where the opening formed in the lower case 212 is formed in a quadrangular shape, the transparent portion 250 may be formed in a quadrangular shape. However, this is exemplary, and the shape of the transparent portion 250 is not particularly limited.

The transparent portion 250 is formed using a material that transmits ultraviolet rays, so that the ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 230 can be irradiated to the outside of the light source module 200. For example, the transparent portion 250 may be formed using at least one of quartz (quartz), fused silica (fused silica), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA: poly methyl methacrylate) resin, and fluorine-based polymer resin.

Fig. 4a to 4c are diagrams illustrating a light source module 200_1 according to another embodiment of the present application. Specifically, fig. 4a is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the light source module 200_1. Fig. 4b is an exploded perspective view of the light source module 200_1 of fig. 4 a. Fig. 4c is a cross-sectional view of the light source module 200_1 of fig. 4a taken along the intercept line A1-A1'.

The light source module 200_1 of fig. 4a to 4c is similar to the light source module 200 of fig. 3a and 3 b. Accordingly, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and the same or similar description is omitted below for simplicity of description.

Referring to fig. 4a to 4c, the light source module 200_1 includes a housing 210, a first fastening part 221, a second fastening part 222, a light source 230, a substrate 240, and a transparent part 250.

The case 210 forms an external appearance of the light source module 200_1, and internally provides a space for accommodating the substrate 240 and the light source 230 and the connectors 260a, 260b attached to the front surface of the substrate 240. The housing 210 includes an upper housing 211 and a lower housing 212.

The upper case 211 includes a first reinforcing member 211a and a second reinforcing member 211b. The first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b enhance the structural rigidity of the upper case 211. For example, as shown in fig. 4b, the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b have shapes protruding from the upper surface of the upper housing 211 to cross each other, and thus can disperse an external force applied to the upper housing 211 in the lateral or longitudinal direction. However, this is exemplary, and the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b may be provided in various other forms other than the orthogonal form.

The first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b may be provided in plurality, respectively. For example, the number of the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b formed at the upper case 211 may be appropriately adjusted according to the size of the light source module 200_1. For example, the larger the upper case 211 is, the more the first reinforcing members 211a and the second reinforcing members 211b can be provided, so that the structural rigidity of the upper case 211 can be ensured.

In addition, as shown in fig. 4b, the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b may have a step corresponding to the shape of the substrate 240. In this case, the substrate 240 may be stably disposed on the upper case 211 by means of a step formed at the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b. Therefore, not only the substrate 240 can be prevented from shaking in the longitudinal direction, but also the substrate 240 can be prevented from shaking in the lateral direction.

The lower case 212 includes an opening portion exposing the light source 230. The opening may be defined by an opening side wall 212h and an opening upper surface 212e provided to the lower case 212.

The opening side wall 212h may have an inclined shape, for example. In the case where the opening side wall 212h has an inclined shape, the opening may have a tapered shape toward the light source 230. The opening has a tapered shape, and light emitted from the light source 230 can be emitted at a wide pointing angle without being blocked by the lower case 212.

The opening upper surface 212e is formed substantially parallel to the upper surface of the upper housing 211, and is provided at one side end of the opening side wall 212 h. As shown in fig. 4c, the opening upper surface 212e has a flat shape, so that the transparent part 250 can be stably seated on the lower case 212. The opening upper surface 212e and the opening side wall 212h are integrally connected to each other.

The locking portion 213_1 and the locking groove 213_2 couple and fix the upper case 211 and the lower case 212. The locking portion 213_1 and the locking groove 213_2 are formed on one side of the upper case 211 and the lower case 212, respectively, and the upper case 211 and the lower case 212 are coupled by a hook coupling method. However, this is exemplary, and the upper case 211 and the lower case 212 may be implemented to be coupled by various coupling methods such as a screw coupling method, an insertion coupling method, a screw coupling method, and the like.

The through holes 215 and 215' provide paths for leading out the wires connected to the connectors 260a and 260b to the outside. For example, the light source module 200_1 may include a first through hole 215 and a second through hole 215' provided at positions facing each other.

The external power may be supplied to the light source module 200_1 through an electric wire drawn through the first through hole 215 or the second through hole 215'. Also, the electric wire led out through the first through hole 215 and/or the second through hole 215' may be provided to other light source modules adjacent to the light source module 200_1, so that the two light source modules may be electrically connected to each other.

For example, when described in more detail, the electric wire led out through the first through hole 215 may be connected to an external power source, and the electric wire led out through the second through hole 215' may be connected to an adjacent light source module. As another example, the electric wire led out through the first through hole 215 and the electric wire led out through the second through hole 215' may be electrically connected to mutually different light source modules adjacent to the light source module 200_1, respectively.

The first through hole 215 and the second through hole 215' may be provided on both sides of the case 210. For example, a first through hole 215 may be provided at one side of the case 210, and a second through hole 215' may be provided at the other side of the case 210.

The first through hole 215 and the second through hole 215' may be formed by coupling the upper case 211 and the lower case 212. For example, as shown in fig. 4b, the first through hole 215 may be formed by coupling the first through hole upper portion 215a provided in the upper case 211 and the first through hole lower portion 215b provided in the lower case 212.

The first fastening portion 221 and the second fastening portion 222 fix the light source module 200_1 to the evaporator. The first fastening part 221 and the second fastening part 222 may be provided integrally with the lower case 212, and include a plurality of fastening legs extending in a light emitting direction from the light source 230. For example, the first fastening part 221 may include three fastening legs 221_1, 221_2, 221_3, and the second fastening part 222 may include three fastening legs 222_1, 222_2, 222_3.

The substrate 240 extends in one direction and is attached with the light source 230 on the front surface. The substrate 240 is disposed between the upper case 211 and the lower case 212. For example, as shown in fig. 4c, the substrate 240 may be fixed by the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b formed in the upper case 211 and the opening side wall 212h formed in the lower case 212. In this case, the substrate 240 is disposed to match the step formed in the first and second reinforcing members 211a and 211b, and thus can be fixed without lateral shaking.

The transparent part 250 is provided on the lower case 212 and transmits light emitted from the light source 230. For example, as shown in fig. 4c, the transparent part 250 may be disposed on the opening upper surface 212e so as to cover the opening. In this case, the transparent part 250 is disposed at the outside of the case 210, not at the inside of the case 210, so that a structure for supporting the transparent part 250 is not formed at the inside of the case 210. Accordingly, the longitudinal dimension of the lower housing 212 can be reduced. Also, as the longitudinal size of the lower case 212 is reduced, the distance between the evaporator 23 to perform the sterilization operation and the light source 230 is shortened, with the result that the sterilization power of the light source module 200_1 can be improved.

The bonding member 251 bonds the transparent part 250 and the lower case 212. For example, the adhesive member 251 may be provided on the opening upper surface 212e to adhere the opening upper surface 212e and the transparent portion 250. In this case, the adhesive member 251 may be provided in a shape corresponding to the opening upper surface 212 e. For example, as shown in fig. 4b, when the opening upper surface 212e is in a quadrangular ring shape, the adhesive member 251 may be provided in a corresponding quadrangular ring shape.

In addition, the adhesive member 251 seals and adheres the transparent portion 250 and the lower case 212, and thus can provide a waterproof function to the light source module 200_1. Accordingly, water or moisture can be prevented from penetrating between the transparent part 250 and the lower case 212.

The adhesive member 251 may be formed from various materials such as Acrylic resins (Acrylic resin), anaerobic Acrylic resins (Acrylic resin anaerobic), acrylic resin emulsions (Acrylic resin), urethane resins (Polyurethane resin), urethane resin emulsions (Urethane emulsion), urethane resin hot-melt adhesives (TPU: polyurethane Hot melt), reactive hot-melt adhesives (R-HM), cellulose ethers (Ethercellulose), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer emulsions (Ethylene-Vinylacetate copolymer emulsion), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer hot-melt adhesives (Ethylene-Vinylacetate copolymer Hot melt), epoxy resins (Epoxy resin), epoxy resin emulsions (Epoxy resin), vinyl chloride resin solvents (Polyvinyl Chloride solvent type), polychloroprene rubbers (Polychloroprene rubber), cyanoacrylates (α -cyanoacrylates), silicones (Silicone adhesives), and modified silicones (Modified Silicone adhesives).

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200_2 according to another embodiment of the present application.

The light source module 200_2 of fig. 5 is similar to the light source module 200_1 of fig. 4a to 4 c. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

The light source module 200_2 of fig. 5 is equipped with a smaller-sized transparent part 250 as compared to the light source module 200_1 of fig. 4a to 4 c. Also, the transparent part 250 of the light source module 200_2 of fig. 5 is disposed closer to the light source 230 than the light source module 200_1 of fig. 4a to 4 c.

To explain in more detail, the opening upper surface 212e of the placement transparent portion 250 is formed at the end of the opening side wall 212h in the light source 230 direction. The transparent portion 250 is disposed adjacent to the light source 230, and the substrate 240 on which the light source 230 is mounted and the transparent portion 250 are spaced apart from each other by the opening upper surface 212 e. In this case, since the distance between the transparent portion 250 and the light source 230 is short, the light emitted from the light source 230 can be radiated to the outside without loss.

Also, since the size of the opening upper surface 212e of fig. 5, on which the transparent portion 250 is disposed, is smaller than that of fig. 4a to 4c, the size of the transparent portion 250 provided on the opening upper surface 212e of fig. 5 is smaller than that of the transparent portion of fig. 4a to 4 c. Accordingly, the possibility of water or moisture penetrating between the transparent part 250 and the lower case 212 is reduced, so that the waterproof performance of the light source module 200_2 can be improved.

In addition, similar to fig. 4a to 4c, the longitudinal dimension of the lower case 212 of the light source module 200_2 of fig. 5 can be formed smaller, whereby the distance between the evaporator 23 to perform the sterilization operation and the light source 230 becomes shorter, so that the sterilization power of the light source module 200_2 can be improved.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200_3 according to another embodiment of the present application.

The light source module 200_3 of fig. 6 is similar to the light source modules 200_1, 200_2 of fig. 4a to 4c and 5. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for the sake of brevity of description.

Unlike the light source modules 200_1, 200_2 of fig. 4a to 4c and 5, the transparent portion 250 of the light source module 200_3 of fig. 6 is disposed inside the housing 210. For example, the transparent part 250 may be inserted into the housing 210, and the light source module 200_3 may further include a support part 214 for fixing the transparent part 250 and/or the substrate 240 and a pressing member 217.

The support 214 may fix the substrate 240 together with the first reinforcing member 211 a. For example, the support 214 may be provided integrally with the lower case 212 and formed to extend in the longitudinal direction. The support 214 may have, for example, a bridge shape, and the electric wires connected to the connectors 260a, 260b may be led out of the light source module 200_3 through the through holes 215, 215' through openings formed in the bridge-shaped support 214.

The pressing member 217 may fix the substrate 240 and the transparent portion 250. For example, the pressing member 217 may fix the substrate together with the first reinforcing member 211a and the support portion 214, and fix the transparent portion 250 together with the opening side wall 212 h. For example, the pressing member 217 may be formed using an elastic member such as a rubber ring, but is not limited thereto.

As another example, the pressing member 217 may be formed integrally with the upper case 211. In this case, the substrate 240 may be fixed between the first reinforcing member 211a of the upper case 211 and the pressing member 217 of the upper case 211 by an interference fit, and the transparent portion 250 may be fixed between the pressing member 217 of the upper case 211 and the opening side wall 212h of the lower case 212 by a pressing manner.

As another example, the pressing member 217 may be formed integrally with the lower case 212. In this case, the substrate 240 may be fixed between the first reinforcing member 211a of the upper case 211 and the pressing member 217 of the lower case 212 by pressing, and the transparent portion 250 may be fixed between the pressing member 217 of the lower case 212 and the opening side wall 212h of the lower case 212 by interference fit.

By including the support portion 214 and the pressing member 217, the structural stability and rigidity of the light source module 200_3 can be improved. The transparent portion 250 is provided inside the case 210, so that the possibility of breakage of the transparent portion 250 due to external impact can be reduced.

Furthermore, the light source module 200_3 of fig. 6 may further include a pressurizing member 217 extending in a longitudinal direction, as compared to the light source modules 200_1, 200_2 of fig. 4a to 4c and 5, so that a distance between the evaporator 23 to perform a sterilization operation and the light source 230 increases to correspond to a longitudinal length of the pressurizing member 217. As a result, by increasing the distance between the sterilization object body and the light source 230, a sterilization operation for a larger area can be performed.

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200_4 according to another embodiment of the present application.

The light source module 200_4 of fig. 7 is similar to the light source modules 200_1, 200_2, 200_3 of fig. 4a to 6. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

Referring to fig. 7, the transparent part 250 may be disposed outside the case 210 and fixed to the opening side wall 212h by a hook coupling manner.

To be described in more detail, the opening side wall 212h may be formed of an opening side wall upper end 2121 and an opening side wall lower end 2122. The opening side wall upper end 2121 and the opening side wall lower end 2122 may be formed in a clip or hook-like state.

The opening sidewall lower end 2122 is provided between the substrate 240 and the transparent portion 250. The lower end 2122 of the opening side wall fixes the substrate 240 together with the first reinforcing member 211a, and fixes the transparent portion 250 together with the upper end 2121 of the opening side wall.

The opening side wall upper end 2121 fixes the transparent portion 250 together with the opening side wall lower end 2122. The opening side wall upper end 2121 may be formed using a flexible material so that the transparent portion 250 may be easily inserted and coupled between the opening side wall upper end 2121 and the opening side wall lower end 2122 without other means. In this case, the opening side wall 212h in the hook shape firmly fixes the transparent portion 250, so that the transparent portion 250 can be fixed to the case 210 even without an adhesive member. Accordingly, the manufacturing process of the light source module 200_4 can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost of the light source module 200_4 can be reduced.

In addition, the opening side wall upper end 2121 may be formed to have the same or similar inclination as the pointing angle of the light source 230. Accordingly, the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source 230 can be irradiated to the outside of the light source module 200_4 without being blocked by the opening side wall upper end 2121, and as a result, the sterilizing power can be improved.

Fig. 8a illustrates a cross-section of a light source 230 according to an embodiment of the present application, and fig. 8B illustrates a cross-section taken along the line a-B '-a' of fig. 8 a. Referring to fig. 8a and 8b, the light source 230 according to an embodiment of the present application may include a mesa M including a first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, an active layer 1112, and a second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113, a first insulating layer, a first electrode 1140, and a second insulating layer 1150, and may further include a growth substrate 1100 and a second electrode 1120.

The growth substrate 1100 is not limited as long as it is a substrate capable of growing the first conductivity type semiconductor layer 1111, the active layer 1112, and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer 1113, and may be, for example, a sapphire substrate, a silicon carbide substrate, a gallium nitride substrate, an aluminum nitride substrate, a silicon substrate, or the like. The side of the growth substrate 1100 may include an inclined surface, so that extraction of light generated at the active layer 1112 can be improved.

The second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113 may be disposed on the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, and the active layer 1112 may be disposed between the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 and the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113. The first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, the active layer 1112, and the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113 may include group III-V compound semiconductors, and for example, may include nitride-based semiconductors such as (Al, ga, in) N. The first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 may include an n-type impurity (e.g., si), and the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113 may include a p-type impurity (e.g., mg). And the opposite may be also true. The active layer 1112 may include a multiple quantum well structure (MQW). When a forward bias is applied to the light source 230, electrons and holes are combined in the active layer 1112, and light is emitted. The first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, the active layer 1112, and the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113 may be grown on the growth substrate 1100 using Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD) or Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) techniques, or the like.

The light source 230 may include at least one mesa M including an active layer 1112 and a second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113. The table M may include a plurality of protrusions, which may be spaced apart from each other. The light source 230 may include a plurality of mesas M spaced apart from each other. The side surface of the mesa M may be formed obliquely by using a technique such as photoresist reflow, and the inclined side surface of the mesa M can improve the light emitting efficiency generated at the active layer 1112.

The first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 may include a first contact region R1 and a second contact region R2 exposed through the mesa M. Since the mesa M is formed by removing the active layer 1112 and the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113 disposed on the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, a portion other than the mesa M becomes a contact region which is an upper surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 exposed. The first electrode 1140 is in contact with the first contact region R1 and the second contact region R2, and thus may be electrically connected to the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111. The first contact region R1 may be disposed around the mesa M along the outline of the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, and in particular, may be disposed along the outline of the upper surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer between the mesa M and the side of the light source 230. The second contact region R2 may be at least partially surrounded by the mesa M.

The length of the second contact region R2 in the long axis direction may be 0.5 times or more the length of one side of the light source 230. In this case, a region where the first electrode 1140 contacts the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 can be increased, and thus a current flowing from the first electrode 1140 to the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 can be more effectively dispersed, and a forward voltage can be further reduced.

The second electrode 1120 is disposed on the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113, and may be electrically connected to the second conductive type semiconductor layer 1113. The second electrode 1120 may be formed on the mesa M, and may have the same shape according to the shape of the mesa M. The second electrode 1120 may include a reflective metal layer 1121, and further may include a barrier metal layer 1122, and the barrier metal layer 1122 may cover the upper surface and sides of the reflective metal layer 1121. For example, by forming a pattern of the reflective metal layer 1121 and forming the barrier metal layer 1122 thereon, the barrier metal layer 1122 can be formed so as to cover the upper surface and the side surfaces of the reflective metal layer 1121. For example, the reflective metal layer 1121 may be formed by depositing and patterning a layer of Ag, ag alloy, ni/Ag, niZn/Ag, tiO/Ag.

The barrier metal layer 1122 may be formed using Ni, cr, ti, pt, au or a composite layer thereof, and specifically, ni/Ag/[ Ni/Ti may be sequentially used on the upper surface of the second conductive semiconductor layer 1113] ₂ The composite layer formed of/Au/Ti, more specifically, at least a portion of the upper surface of the second electrode 1120 may includeA Ti layer of thickness. In the case where the region of the upper surface of the second electrode 1120 that is in contact with the first insulating layer is formed using a Ti layer, the adhesion between the first insulating layer and the second electrode 1120 can be improved, thereby improving the reliability of the light source 230.

An electrode protection layer 1160 may be disposed on the second electrode 1120, and the electrode protection layer 1160 may be the same material as the first electrode 1140, but is not limited thereto.

A first insulating layer may be disposed between the first electrode 1140 and the mesa M. The first electrode 1140 may be insulated from the mesa M by a first insulating layer, and the first electrode 1140 may be insulated from the second electrode 1120. The first insulating layer may partially expose the first contact region R1 and the second contact region R2. Specifically, the first insulating layer may expose a portion of the second contact region R2 through the opening 1130a, and the first insulating layer may cover only a portion of the first contact region R1 between the outline of the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 and the mesa M, so that at least a portion of the first contact region R1 is exposed.

The first insulating layer may be disposed on the second contact region R2 along the outline of the second contact region R2. Meanwhile, the first insulating layer may be disposed more closely defined to the mesa M than a region where the first contact region R1 meets the first electrode 1140.

The first insulating layer may have an opening 1130b exposing the second electrode 1120. The second electrode 1120 can be electrically connected to a pad, a bump, or the like through the opening 1130b.

The region where the first contact region R1 meets the first electrode 1140 is disposed along the entire outline of the upper surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer. Specifically, the region where the first contact region R1 meets the first electrode 1140 may be disposed to be entirely adjacent to four sides of the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111, and may entirely surround the mesa M. In this case, a region where the first electrode 1140 contacts the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 can be increased, and thus a current flowing from the first electrode 1140 to the first conductive type semiconductor layer 1111 can be more effectively dispersed, and a forward voltage can be further reduced.

In an embodiment of the present application, the first electrode 1140 and the second electrode 1120 of the light source 230 may be directly or through pads attached to the substrate 240.

For example, in the case where the light source 230 is mounted on the substrate 240 through pads, two pads disposed between the light source 230 and the substrate 240 may be provided, and the two pads may be respectively connected to the first electrode 1140 and the second electrode 1120. For example, the pad may be solder or a co-soluble alloy (effective Metal), however, not limited thereto, and for example, auSn may be used as the co-soluble alloy.

As another example, in the case where the light source 230 is directly mounted on the substrate 240, the first electrode 1140 and the second electrode 1120 of the light source 230 may be directly bonded to the wiring on the substrate 240. In this case, the bonding substance may include an adhesive substance having conductive characteristics. For example, the bonding substance may include at least any one conductive material of silver (Ag), tin (Sn), copper (Cu). However, this is exemplary, and the bonding material may include various materials having conductivity. However, this is exemplary, and the bonding substance may include various substances having conductivity.

As described above, the growth substrate 1100 of the light source 230 of the present application is arranged to be located in the opposite direction to the substrate 240. That is, the light source 230 according to an embodiment of the present application may be implemented in a flip-chip configuration.

Fig. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a pattern in which the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 7 are provided to the evaporator 23.

As shown in fig. 9, fastening portions 221_2, 222_2 extending in a direction perpendicular to the base plate 240 are formed at the lower surface of the lower case 212, and the fastening portions 221_2, 222_2 are inserted into the space between the plurality of heat exchange plates included in the evaporator 23. In this case, the fastening parts 221_2, 222_2 and the plurality of heat exchange plates may be arranged in parallel with each other, thereby increasing a contact area, and thus the light source module 200 may be stably fixed to the evaporator 23.

In a state where the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 are fixed to the evaporator 23, if power is supplied from the outside, a sterilization operation of the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 is performed. That is, the electric wire 1 may be drawn out to the outside through the through hole 215 formed in the upper housing 211, and an external power is supplied to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 through the electric wire 1. In this case, ultraviolet rays are emitted from the light sources 230 of the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4, which are supplied to the evaporator 23 through the transparent part 250.

In this case, the sterilization area a sterilized by ultraviolet rays may be different according to the pointing angle of the light source 230. For example, if the light source 230 has a pointing angle Q of a predetermined angle, the sterilization area a may be proportional to the pointing angle Q.

In one embodiment of the present application, the growth substrate 1100 of the light source 230 may be mounted to be located in the opposite direction to the substrate 240 as described in fig. 8a and 8b above. That is, the light source 230 may be flip-chip mounted on the substrate 240. In this case, the ultraviolet rays are emitted through the growth substrate 1100, and thus the pointing angle of the ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 230 may be larger than that of a general light source. As a result, the light source 230 according to the embodiment of the present application may have a larger pointing angle than usual, so that the sterilization area a of the evaporator 23 may be larger.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200' according to another embodiment of the present application. The light source module 200' of fig. 10 is similar to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

The light source module 200' of fig. 10 is implemented to have a larger sterilization area B as compared to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9. For this, the light source module 200' of fig. 10 may be implemented to minimize the distance d1 between the light source 230 and the transparent part 250. Also, a spacer 216 may be provided to form a predetermined separation distance d2 between the lower housing 212 and the evaporator 23.

First, in order to have a larger sterilization area B, the light source module 200' of fig. 10 may be implemented to minimize a distance d1 between the light source 230 and the transparent part 250. In this case, the length of the support 214 in the direction perpendicular to the substrate 240 may be implemented to be shorter than that of fig. 9.

To be described in more detail, the pointing angle Q (see fig. 9) of the light source generally represents an angle at which the light amount of the ultraviolet ray is 50% with reference to the point at which the light amount is maximum. Therefore, even for a region located at an angle exceeding the pointing angle Q, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated from the light source. If the transparent portion 250 is not formed sufficiently large, the ultraviolet rays irradiated to the region beyond the direction angle Q collide with the inner surface of the case and are lost. However, the transparent portion 250 is manufactured to be large, which has problems such as an increase in manufacturing cost and a decrease in strength of the case.

In order to minimize the loss of ultraviolet rays as described above, it may be implemented to minimize the distance d1 between the transparent part 250 and the light source 230. For example, the distance d1 can be minimized by minimizing the length d2 of the support 214 between the base plate 240 and the lower housing 212. For example, the length d2 of the support portion 214 in the direction perpendicular to the substrate 240 may be set such that the distance d1 between the light source 230 and the transparent portion 250 is about 200 μm or more and 2mm or less.

Also, in order to have a larger sterilization area B, a spacer 216 forming a predetermined separation distance d2 between the lower housing 212 and the evaporator 23 may be provided. The spacer 216 can not only prevent the transparent portion 250 from directly contacting the evaporator 23 to reduce the sterilization area, but also maintain a proper sterilization force.

As will be described in more detail, if the transparent portion 250 of the light source module 200' is disposed to be in direct contact with the evaporator 23, there is a problem in that ultraviolet rays are irradiated only to the heat exchange plate in contact with the transparent portion, and thus the sterilization area is reduced. Further, if the light source module 200' is spaced too far from the evaporator 23, there is a problem in that the sterilizing power is lowered below a normal level.

In order to prevent the decrease of the sterilization area and the decrease of the sterilization power as described above, a spacer 216 may be provided to form a predetermined separation distance d2 between the lower housing 212 and the evaporator 23. For example, the length d2 of the spacer 216 in the direction perpendicular to the substrate 240 may be set to be smaller than the length of the fastening parts 221, 222 and maintain a proper sterilizing power. Also, the width of the spacer 216 in the direction parallel to the base plate 240 may be formed to be greater than the interval distance between the heat exchange plates adjacent to each other, thereby forming an interval space between the evaporator 23 and the lower case 212.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200″ according to another embodiment of the present application. The light source module 200″ of fig. 11 is similar to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

Unlike the case where the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9 are equipped with one light source 230, the light source module 200″ of fig. 11 is equipped with a plurality of light sources 230_1, 230_2. For example, as shown in fig. 11, two light sources 230_1, 230_2 may be mounted on the substrate 240 of the light source module 200″. However, this is exemplary, and three or more light sources may be mounted on the light source module 200″.

Also, the light source module 200″ may include a plurality of transparent parts 250_1, 250_2 corresponding to the plurality of light sources 230_1, 230_2, respectively. For example, as shown in fig. 11, a first transparent part 250_1 corresponding to the first light source 230_1 and a second transparent part 250_2 corresponding to the second light source 230_2 may be provided. However, this is exemplary, and the light source module 200″ may be provided with one transparent part. In this case, for example, the length of the one transparent portion in the direction parallel to the substrate 240 may be longer to cover the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first and second light sources 230_1 and 230_2. As another example, the light source module 200″ may include three or more transparent portions.

As described above, the light source module 200″ is equipped to include a plurality of light sources and a plurality of transparent parts corresponding thereto, so that the light source module 200″ can perform a sterilization operation for a larger area.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a light source module 200' "according to another embodiment of the present application. The light source module 200' "of fig. 12 is similar to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

Referring to fig. 12, the light source module 200' "includes a plurality of sub-light source modules electrically connected to each other. For example, the light source module 200 ' "includes a first sub light source module 200 '" 1 and a second sub light source module 200 ' "2 electrically connected to each other.

In this case, the respective sub light source modules 200 '"1, 200'" 2 may be provided with through holes at one side and/or the other side of the housing, and may be electrically connected to each other by electric wires drawn through the through holes. For example, a through hole 215_1 may be formed at one side surface of the first sub light source module 200 '"1, and power may be supplied to the first sub light source module 200'" 1 through the electric wire 1 drawn through the through hole 215_1.

A through hole (not shown) may be formed in one side surface of the second sub light source module 200 ' "2, and the first sub light source module 200 '" 1 and the second sub light source module 200 ' "2 may be electrically connected to each other by an electric wire led out through the through hole. Also, a through hole 215_2 may be formed at the other side surface of the second sub light source module 200 '"2, and power may be supplied to the second sub light source module 200'" 2 through the electric wire 1 drawn through the through hole 215_2.

As described above, the light source module 200' "includes a plurality of sub-light source modules, thereby being capable of performing a sterilization operation for a larger area.

In addition, although a case in which a plurality of sub light source modules are connected in series to each other is illustrated in fig. 12, the technical idea of the present application is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of sub-light source modules may be connected in parallel to each other, or may be electrically connected in series and in parallel.

Fig. 13a and 13b are diagrams illustrating an air conditioner 30 and an embodiment of a light source module 300 provided to the air conditioner 30 according to an embodiment of the present application. Specifically, fig. 13a is a diagram schematically showing the light source module 300 movable along the guide rails 36_1, 36_2 provided to the evaporator 33, and fig. 13B is a sectional view showing a section taken along the line B-B' of fig. 13 a.

The air conditioner 30 and the light source module 300 of fig. 13a and 13b are similar to the light source modules 200, 200_1, 200_2, 200_3, 200_4 of fig. 3a to 9. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

Referring to fig. 13a and 13b, a guide rail 36 is provided to the evaporator 33. For example, the guide rail 36 may be provided in a direction parallel to a direction in which the plurality of heat exchange plates of the evaporator 33 extend. However, this is exemplary, and the guide rail 36 may be provided in various directions such as a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the plurality of heat exchange plates extend.

A light source module 300 is disposed on the guide rail 36. For example, as shown in fig. 13b, the fastening portions 321_1, 321_2 of the light source module 300 may be inserted into and fastened to the guide grooves 36_11, 36_21 formed in the respective guide rails 36_1, 36_2, respectively. In this case, as shown in the drawing, the surfaces of the guide grooves 36_11, 36_21 may be concavely formed, but are not limited thereto. For example, the guide grooves 36_11, 36_21 may be formed protruding from the surface. As another example, the guide grooves 36_11 and 36_21 may be formed as grooves on both sides thereof. As described above, the guide grooves 36_11 and 36_21 may be formed in various forms.

The light source module 300 is implemented to be movable along the guide rail 36. For example, rollers for reducing friction may be provided at the fastening parts 321_1, 321_2 of the light source module 300, respectively, and the light source module 300 may move along the guide rail 36 and perform a sterilization operation when the sterilization operation. Accordingly, the sterilization area C sterilized by the light source module 300 becomes significantly large in the direction in which the guide rail 36 extends.

In addition, the sterilization operation of the light source module 300 may be performed periodically or aperiodically. For example, the light source module 300 may periodically move along the guide rail 36 and perform a sterilization operation based on a predetermined time period. As another example, the light source module 300 may also perform a sterilization operation when blocking the power supply to the air conditioner 30 from being powered off.

Fig. 14 is a block diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an air conditioner 40 according to an embodiment of the present application. For example, the air conditioner 40 of fig. 14 may support a mobile sterilization operation similar to the air conditioner 30 and the light source module 300 described in fig. 13a and 13 b. The air conditioner 40 and the light source module 400 of fig. 14 are similar to the air conditioner 30 and the light source module 300 of fig. 13a and 13b, and thus, for simplicity of explanation, duplicate explanation is omitted below.

Referring to fig. 14, the air conditioner 40 includes an evaporator 43, a light source module 400, an auxiliary power supply unit 430, a timer 440, and a control unit 450.

The evaporator 43 includes a plurality of heat exchange plates. A guide rail 36 (see fig. 13 a) is provided on one surface of the evaporator 43, and a path along which the light source module 400 can move along the guide rail 36 is provided.

The light source module 400 is disposed in close contact with the evaporator 43. For example, the light source module 400 may be disposed at the guide rail 36 provided at the evaporator 43, and may be implemented to perform a sterilization operation for the evaporator 43 to and from the guide rail 36. The light source module 400 includes an ultraviolet irradiation part 410 and a moving part 420.

The ultraviolet irradiation unit 410 irradiates ultraviolet rays having a sterilizing effect toward the evaporator 43. For example, as shown in fig. 3a to 13b, the light source, the substrate on which the light source is mounted, and the transparent portion disposed toward the front of the light source may be referred to as an ultraviolet irradiation portion 410. However, this is exemplary, and only the light source may be referred to as the ultraviolet irradiation part 410. As another example, the light source and the substrate may be referred to as an ultraviolet irradiation unit 410. As another example, the light source, the substrate, the transparent portion, and the case may be referred to as an ultraviolet irradiation portion 410.

The moving part 420 moves the light source module 400 along the guide rail 36. For example, the moving part 420 may be implemented to include an electrically driven small motor and a wheel connected to the small motor. The moving part 420 is connected to the fastening parts 321_1, 321_2 (refer to fig. 13 b) of the light source module 400 such that the light source module 400 can move along the guide rail 36.

The auxiliary power supply part 430 supplies power to the light source module 400. In particular, when the power supply of the external power is interrupted, the auxiliary power supply part 430 performs the function of supplying the power so that the light source module 400 can perform the sterilization operation. The auxiliary power supply unit 430 may be implemented using a small battery, a large capacity capacitor, a super capacitor, or the like, for example.

The timer 440 checks the operation time of the air conditioner 40. For example, the timer 440 may check the time when the air conditioner 40 is operated and provide it to the control part 450.

The control part 450 controls the overall operation of the air conditioner 40. In particular, the control part 450 may control the sterilization operation of the light source module 400 based on information about the air conditioner operation time provided from the timer 440 of the air conditioner 40 and information about whether the power is turned off or not supplied from the outside.

For example, in case that the operation time of the air conditioner reaches a predetermined time period, the control part 450 controls the light source module 400 to perform a sterilization operation. In particular, as described in fig. 13a and 13b, the light source module 400 may move along the guide rail 36 and perform a sterilization operation. After the sterilization operation is finished, the control part 450 may reset (reset) the timer 440 again, and the timer 440 may check the air conditioner operation time again from the beginning.

As another example, when receiving a power-off signal for blocking the power supplied from the outside, the control unit 450 controls the auxiliary power unit 430 to supply the power of the auxiliary power unit 430 to the light source module 400. And, the control part 450 controls the light source module 400 to perform a sterilization operation. In this case as well, the light source module 400 may move along the guide rail 36 and perform a sterilization operation.

As described above, the air conditioner 40 according to an embodiment of the present application may periodically perform the sterilization operation, and may also perform the sterilization operation aperiodically as in the case of receiving the power-off signal or the like. As described above, the air conditioner 40 automatically performs the sterilization operation without an external command, so that the air conditioner 40 of the present application can improve user convenience.

Fig. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the air conditioner 40 of fig. 14.

In step S110, power is supplied to the air conditioner 40, and in step S120, the air conditioner 40 performs an operation. For example, the air conditioner 40 performs a cooling operation after inputting power.

In step S130, the timer 440 starts to operate. For example, the timer 440 may supply power to the air conditioner 40 in response to the control of the control part 450 while checking the operation time of the air conditioner 40. As another example, the timer 440 may check the operation time of the air conditioner 40 after the power is supplied to the air conditioner 40 and a predetermined time elapses.

In step S140, the control section 450 determines whether the air-conditioning operation time Tc received from the timer 440 reaches a predetermined time period Tr.

In the case where the air conditioner operation time Tc reaches the predetermined time period Tr, the control section 450 controls the light source module 400 so as to perform the sterilization operation for the evaporator 43. That is, in step S150, the light source module 400 moves along the guide rail provided to the evaporator 43 and performs a sterilization operation. After that, after the sterilization operation is ended, the control section 450 resets the timer 440 in step S160. Thereafter, the timer 440 restarts the check time with respect to the air conditioner operation time.

In step S145, the control unit 450 determines whether or not the external power supply is turned off. For example, the control part 450 may receive information about whether the external power source is blocked based on a power-off signal received from the outside.

If the external power is blocked, the control part 450 controls the auxiliary power part 430 and the light source module 400, thereby performing a sterilization operation with respect to the evaporator 43. That is, in step S170, the auxiliary power supply part 430 supplies power to the light source module 400 in response to the control of the control part 450. Thereafter, in step S180, the light source module 400 moves along a guide rail provided to the evaporator 43 and performs a sterilization operation.

In addition, if the external power is not blocked, the timer 440 continuously checks the operation time of the air conditioner.

The above description is exemplary, and the technical ideas of the present application are not limited thereto. For example, the order of operations in fig. 15 may be partially changed according to the designer. For example, before the step S140 of comparing the air conditioner operation time with the predetermined time period, the step S145 of determining whether the external power source is powered off may be performed.

Fig. 16a to 16e are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of an air conditioner 50 and a light source module 500 provided to the air conditioner 50 according to an embodiment of the present application. Specifically, fig. 16a is a diagram schematically showing the light source module 500 movable along the guide rail 36 provided to the evaporator 53, and fig. 16b is a perspective view showing the light source module 500 of fig. 16a in more detail. Fig. 16c to 16e are cross-sectional views illustrating a cross-section of the light source module 500 of fig. 16 b.

The air conditioner 50 and the light source module 500 of fig. 16a to 16e are similar to the air conditioner 30 and the light source module 300 of fig. 13a and 13 b. Therefore, the same or similar constituent elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and repetitive description will be omitted below for simplicity of description.

First, referring to fig. 16a, a guide rail 56 is provided to the evaporator 53. The guide rail 56 may be provided in a direction parallel to a direction in which the plurality of heat exchange plates of the evaporator 53 extend. However, this is exemplary, and the guide rails 56 may be provided in various directions such as a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the plurality of heat exchange plates extend. The light source module 500 may be fastened to the guide rail 56, move along the guide rail 56, and perform a sterilization operation periodically or aperiodically.

In an embodiment of the present application, the light source module 500 includes a light source part emitting ultraviolet rays, and an ultraviolet ray emitting direction of the light source part may be changed according to a direction of the light source part. That is, the light source module 500 according to the embodiment of the present application provides a rotation function of the light source part capable of changing the ultraviolet ray emitting direction.

As described above, the ultraviolet emission direction implemented as the light source part may vary, so that the light source module 500 according to the embodiment of the present application can perform a sterilization operation for a larger area. For example, as shown in fig. 16a, the light source module 500 may not only achieve sterilization for the region D by controlling the light source portion toward the upper portion 53_1 of the evaporator 53, but also achieve sterilization operation for the region E by controlling the light source portion toward the lower portion 53_2 of the evaporator 53. In this case, the region D and the region E may not overlap each other, and thus a sterilization operation for a larger region can be performed.

Referring to fig. 16b, a light source module 500 is illustrated. The light source module 500 includes a housing 510 and a light source unit 520, and fastening portions 525_1 and 525_2 fastened to guide grooves of the guide rail 56 are formed in the housing 510.

The light source unit 520 includes a light source 521, a substrate 522, a protection tube 523 that protects the light source 521 and the substrate 522, and bases 524_1 and 524_2 provided at both ends of the protection tube 523, and has a cylindrical shape as a whole. The light source part 520 is rotatable based on the central axis of the cylinder. Accordingly, the light may be emitted in a substantially upward direction, but the light emission direction may be changed depending on whether or not the light source unit 520 is rotated.

The light source 520 is provided on one side of the housing 510. The case 510 forms an external appearance of the light source module 500, and provides a space inside which the light source part 520, a printed circuit board driving the light source part 520, wiring, and the like can be disposed.

The housing 510 is provided with a pivot ring as a ring-shaped structure surrounding both end portions of the light source unit 520 to support the light source unit 520. The light source unit 520 is inserted into the pivot ring and fixed in a rotatable manner inside thereof. Further, a fastening member for fastening the light source module to an external component is provided in the case 510.

The housing 510 may be provided as an assembled body in which a plurality of components fastened to each other are assembled. For example, the housing 510 includes an upper housing and a lower housing that face and are fastened to each other. However, the housing 510 may be constructed of a greater number of components.

The fastening portions 525_1 and 525_2 are formed in the upper case, and can be inserted into the guide rail 56 to perform linear movement. However, this is an example, and the fastening portions 525_1, 525_2 may be formed at any place in the upper case or the lower case in consideration of the shape or arrangement of the fastened external constituent elements.

Referring to fig. 16c to 16e, the light source part 520 is rotatable about a pivot axis which is a central axis in the longitudinal direction. When the light source unit 520 is rotated, the light source 521 mounted therein may be rotated to the same extent as the rotation of the bases 524_1 and 524_2.

The bases 524_1 and 524_2 may be provided with locking bases 531 protruding toward the side surface of the upper case in the direction of the light source unit 520. The locking base 531 is rotatable around an insertion boss 532 located on the pivot of the light source unit as the light source unit 520 rotates.

In an embodiment of the present invention, in order to change the direction of the light emitted from the light source 521 within a predetermined angle with respect to the pivot, a pair of stoppers 533 that limit the rotation angle of the light source section 520 may be provided. The stopper 533 is disposed at a position to block the rotation direction of the locking stage 531, thereby restricting the rotation range of the locking stage 531. At this time, the locking stage 531 may be provided between the pair of stoppers 533, so that the rotation angle is limited by being blocked by each stopper 533 when the locking stage 531 rotates in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction. The position of the stopper 533 may be set differently depending on the direction of light emitted from the light source unit 520 and the angle of directivity of the emitted light.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the shapes of the locking base 531 and the stopper 533 may be variously changed. For example, as shown, the locking stage 531 may extend radially from the insertion boss 532 when viewed in cross section. The surface of the locking piece 531 contacting the pivot ring may have a shape of a part of a circle (for example, a semicircle or an arc) so as to be easily rotated. However, the shape of the locking base 531 is not limited to this, as long as the movement can be prevented by the stopper 533, and the shape in cross section may have various shapes such as a quadrangle, a circle, an ellipse, and the like. Further, as shown, the stopper 533 is illustrated as a pair of strips, but is not limited thereto as long as it can prevent the rotation of the locking base 531.

Fig. 16c illustrates a state in which the light source part 520 is not rotated, illustrating a case in which the substrate 522 of the light source 521 is parallel to the bottom surface part of the lower case when viewed from a cross section. The light source 521 emits light upward (i.e., in the first direction D1) perpendicular to the upper surface of the light source module.

Fig. 16d illustrates a state in which the light source part 520 is maximally rotated in the clockwise direction, illustrating a case in which the substrate 522 of the light source 521 is inclined with respect to the bottom surface part of the case 510 when viewed from a cross section. The light source 520 is rotatable in the clockwise direction until the locking base 531 is locked by the stopper 533. At this time, the light source 521 emits light from an upper direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the light source module toward a direction inclined clockwise (i.e., the second direction D2).

Fig. 16e illustrates a state in which the light source part 520 is maximally rotated in the counterclockwise direction, illustrating a case in which the substrate 522 of the light source 521 is inclined in the opposite direction to fig. 16 d. The light source 520 is rotatable in a counterclockwise direction until the locking base 531 is locked by the stopper 533. At this time, the light source 521 emits light from an upward direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the light source module toward a direction inclined counterclockwise (i.e., the third direction D3).

As a result, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the light source part 520 can emit light within an angle formed from the second direction D2 to the third direction D3. Here, the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 are only based on the direction perpendicular to the substrate 522 surface of the light source 521, and therefore it is understood that the angle of the actually emitted light is larger than the angle between the second direction D2 and the third direction D3.

With the light source module according to an embodiment of the present invention having the above-described structure, the light source part 520 is rotatable, so that the direction of light emitted from the light source part 520 can be variously adjusted. In particular, when the light source module 500 periodically or aperiodically performs a sterilization operation with respect to the evaporator, the light source part 520 is rotated, so that a sterilized area can be greatly expanded.

Fig. 17 is a block diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an air conditioner 60 according to an embodiment of the present application. For example, the air conditioner 60 of fig. 17 may adjust the direction of the emitted light similarly to the air conditioner 50 and the light source module 500 described in fig. 16a to 16 e.

The air conditioner 60 and the light source module 600 of fig. 17 are similar to the air conditioners 40, 50 and the light source modules 400, 500 of fig. 14 and 16a to 16e, and thus, for simplicity of explanation, duplicate explanation is omitted below. Referring to fig. 17, the air conditioner 60 includes an evaporator 63, a light source module 600, an auxiliary power supply section 630, a timer 640, and a control section 650.

Unlike the light source module 400 of fig. 14, the light source module 600 of fig. 17 further includes a rotation adjusting part 625. The rotation adjusting unit 625 performs an operation of rotating the light source unit 520 (see fig. 16a to 16 e) included in the light source module 600 to adjust the direction of the emitted light. For example, the rotation adjusting portion 625 may be connected to a pivot that is a central axis of the light source portion 520 in the longitudinal direction, and performs an operation of rotating the light source portion 520 according to the control of the control portion 650.

The rotation adjusting unit 625 may rotate the light source unit 520 based on whether or not the sterilization operation time for a specific direction reaches a reference time.

For example, the control part 650 may receive information of the sterilization operation time for the first region of the evaporator 63 from a timer. The control part 650 may determine whether the sterilization operation time for the first area reaches the reference time by comparing the sterilization operation time for the first area with the reference time. If the sterilization operation time for the first region reaches the reference time, the rotation adjusting part 625 may rotate the light source part 520 in response to the control of the control part 650, thereby performing the sterilization operation for the second region that does not overlap with the first region.

The rotation adjusting unit 625 may perform a sterilization operation in conjunction with the moving unit 620. That is, when the sterilization operation is performed, the light source module 600 can perform a reciprocating linear motion along a guide rail provided to the evaporator 63 by means of the moving part 620, and can adjust the direction of the emitted ultraviolet rays by means of the rotation adjusting part 625.

For example, the rotation adjusting unit 625 may rotate the light source unit 520 so as to first irradiate ultraviolet rays toward the upper portion of the evaporator 63. After that, the light source module 600 can reciprocate linearly along the guide rail by the moving part 620 in a state where the light source part 520 is fixed so that the emission direction of the ultraviolet rays is directed toward the upper part of the evaporator 63. Accordingly, the sterilization operation for the region D (refer to fig. 16 a) may be performed first.

After that, when the sterilization operation time for the region D reaches a predetermined reference time, the rotation adjusting unit 625 may rotate the light source unit 520 so that the emission direction of the ultraviolet rays is directed to the lower portion of the evaporator 63. After that, the light source module 600 can reciprocate linearly along the guide rail by the moving part 620 in a state where the light source part 520 is fixed so that the emission direction of the ultraviolet rays is directed toward the lower part of the evaporator 63. Accordingly, the sterilization operation for the region E (refer to fig. 16 a) can be performed.

As described above, the air conditioner 60 according to the embodiment of the present application can not only adjust the direction of emitting the ultraviolet rays when the sterilization operation is performed with respect to the evaporator 63, but also can perform the sterilization operation when the light source module 600 is moved. Accordingly, the light source module 600 can effectively perform a sterilization operation for a large area.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the air conditioner 60 of fig. 17.

In step S210, power is supplied to the air conditioner 60, and in step S220, a cooling operation of the air conditioner 60 is performed. In step S230, the timer 640 starts to operate. For example, the timer 640 may check the operation time of the air conditioner 60.

In step S240, the control section 650 determines whether the air-conditioning operation time Tc received from the timer 60 reaches a predetermined time period Tr.

In the case where the air conditioner operation time Tc reaches the predetermined time period Tr, the control part 650 controls the light source module 600 so as to perform a sterilization operation for the first region of the evaporator 63.

That is, in step S251, the rotation adjusting part 625 rotates the light source part 520 such that the emission direction of the ultraviolet rays is directed toward the first area, and the light source module 600 moves along the guide rail provided to the evaporator 63 and performs the sterilization operation for the first area.

After that, in step S252, the control section 650 determines whether or not the sterilization operation time for the first area reaches the first reference time.

If the reference time is not reached, the light source module 600 continues to perform a sterilization operation for the first region.

If the reference time is reached, the control part 650 controls the light source module 600 to perform a sterilization operation for the second region of the evaporator 63.

That is, in step S253, the control part 650 rotates the light source part 520 such that the emission direction of the ultraviolet rays is directed toward the second region of the evaporator 63, and the light source module 600 moves along the guide rail provided to the evaporator 63 and performs the sterilization operation for the second region.

Thereafter, in step S254, the control section 650 determines whether the sterilization operation time for the second area reaches a preset second reference time.

If the second reference time is not reached, the light source module 600 continues to perform a sterilization operation for the second region.

If the second reference time is reached, the control unit 650 determines that the sterilization operation is completed, and stops the sterilization operation. In this case, in step S260, the timer 640 is reset, and then the timer 640 restarts to check the operation time of the air conditioner 60.

In addition, if the air conditioning operation time Tc does not reach the predetermined time period Tr in step S240, the control unit 650 determines in step S245 whether or not a power-off signal of the external power supply is received.

Upon receiving a power-off signal of the external power source, the control part 650 controls the auxiliary power source part 630 and the light source module 600 to perform a sterilization operation with respect to the evaporator 63.

That is, in step S270, the auxiliary power supply portion 630 supplies power to the light source module 600 in response to the control of the control portion 650. Thereafter, in step S280, the light source module 600 moves along the guide rail provided to the evaporator 63 and performs a sterilization operation for the first and second regions. For example, the light source module 600 performs sterilization operations for the first and second regions according to the order described in steps S251 to S254.

In addition, the above description is exemplary, and the technical ideas of the present application are not limited thereto. For example, the order of operations in fig. 18 may be partially changed according to the designer. For example, before the step S240 of comparing the air conditioner operation time with the predetermined time period, the step S245 of determining whether the external power source is powered off may be performed.

Although not shown, the air conditioners 30, 40, 50, 60 of fig. 13a to 16e may additionally include a photocatalyst layer for a photocatalytic reaction. For example, the air conditioners 30, 40, 50, 60 may additionally include a photocatalyst filter, and the light sources of the light source modules 300, 400, 500, 600 may irradiate ultraviolet rays toward the photocatalyst filter. As another example, the evaporator 33, 43, 53, 63 may be coated with a photocatalyst substance, and the light source of the light source module 300, 400, 500, 600 may radiate ultraviolet rays toward the region coated with the photocatalyst substance. In this case, the organic compound may be decomposed and the bacteria may be killed by the photocatalytic reaction, thereby further improving the deodorizing and sterilizing effects.

Claims

1. A light source module that irradiates ultraviolet rays, comprising:

a housing; and

an ultraviolet ray irradiation section for irradiating the substrate with ultraviolet rays,

wherein the ultraviolet irradiation part includes:

a substrate; and

a light source attached to the front surface of the substrate and emitting ultraviolet rays,

wherein the housing is arranged with the substrate and the light source and comprises a side face and an upper surface,

wherein the light source comprises:

a first conductive type semiconductor layer;

a second conductive type semiconductor layer disposed on the first conductive type semiconductor layer; and

an active layer disposed between the first conductive type semiconductor layer and the second conductive type semiconductor layer,

wherein the active layer comprises aluminum, and the second conductive type semiconductor layer comprises magnesium,

the housing surrounds the light source and the substrate, and includes an opening portion exposing at least a portion of the light source and the substrate, a transparent portion transmitting the ultraviolet rays is provided in the opening portion, and the opening portion includes an opening portion side wall and an opening portion upper surface,

the case includes a fastening portion extending from one surface of the case in a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the fastening portion being fastened so that the opening portion of the case faces a plurality of heat exchange plates, and the ultraviolet light emitted from the light source is irradiated between the plurality of heat exchange plates.

2. The light source module of claim 1, wherein,

the side wall of the opening includes a shape inclined toward the light source, and an upper surface of the opening is parallel to the substrate and formed at one end of the side wall of the opening.

3. The light source module of claim 1, wherein,

the light source further comprises a growth substrate arranged to be located in an opposite direction to the substrate.

4. The light source module of claim 1, wherein,

the ultraviolet irradiation section further includes:

at least one transparent part positioned in the front direction of the substrate,

wherein the at least one transparent portion corresponds to the light source.

5. The light source module of claim 1, wherein,

the fastening portion is disposed in the space between the plurality of heat exchange plates.

6. The light source module of claim 4, wherein,

the transparent part transmits ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source and protects the light source from moisture of an external environment.

7. The light source module of claim 4, wherein,

the transparent portion is disposed at the opening portion.

8. An air conditioner, comprising:

An evaporator including a plurality of heat exchange plates; and

a light source module which is arranged on the evaporator and irradiates ultraviolet rays towards the evaporator,

wherein, the light source module includes:

a housing; and

wherein the ultraviolet irradiation part includes:

a substrate; and

wherein the light source comprises:

a first conductive type semiconductor layer;

The case includes a fastening portion extending from one surface of the case in a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the fastening portion being fastened in such a manner that the opening portion of the case faces the plurality of heat exchange plates.

9. The air conditioner of claim 8, further comprising:

the timer is used for checking the running time of the air conditioner; and

a control unit for controlling the light source module and the timer,

wherein the control section performs a sterilization operation of the light source module based on information provided from the timer.

10. The air conditioner of claim 8, wherein,

the evaporator comprises a guide rail provided with a guide groove,

the light source module is movable along the guide rail.