KR102043065B1 - Control method of air-conditioner system - Google Patents

Abstract

In a control method of an air conditioner system according to an aspect of the present invention, a mobile terminal transmits a signal for requesting a communication performance test to an outdoor unit included in a predetermined group through a wireless communication module, and the outdoor unit includes a predetermined group. Transmitting a signal indicating a start of a communication performance test to a plurality of indoor units included in the outdoor unit; broadcasting a plurality of communication performance test signals at predetermined time intervals; and a plurality of indoor units are respectively outdoor units. Responding a signal including communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals to the mobile terminal, transmitting the signal including the communication performance test results received from the plurality of indoor units to the mobile terminal, and And displaying, by the mobile terminal, a screen including the communication performance test result received from the outdoor unit. Write, view simplifies the communication performance, it can be determined whether a repeater is required.

Description

Control method of air conditioner system

The present invention relates to an air conditioner system and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner system and a method of controlling the same that can wirelessly communicate between units.

The air conditioner is installed to provide a more comfortable indoor environment to humans by discharging cold air into the room to create a comfortable indoor environment, controlling the indoor temperature, and purifying the indoor air. In general, an air conditioner includes an indoor unit which is configured as a heat exchanger and installed indoors, and an outdoor unit which is configured as a compressor and a heat exchanger and supplies refrigerant to the indoor unit.

The air conditioner is separated and controlled by an indoor unit composed of a heat exchanger and an outdoor unit composed of a compressor and a heat exchanger, and the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are connected to the refrigerant pipe, and the refrigerant compressed from the compressor of the outdoor unit is supplied to the heat exchanger of the indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe. The refrigerant heat exchanged in the heat exchanger of the indoor unit flows back into the compressor of the outdoor unit through the refrigerant pipe. Accordingly, the indoor unit discharges cold air into the room through heat exchange using a refrigerant.

Units in the air conditioner system are interconnected in units of buildings or small groups to transmit and receive data, and to monitor and control the status of each unit through the transmitted and received data.

For example, the air conditioner system may use a wired communication method in which each unit is connected by a communication line. Generally, the indoor unit transmits data to the outdoor unit, and the outdoor unit is configured to receive data of the indoor unit and transmit data of the indoor unit to the controller.

As another example, the prior art (Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2010-0123486) is used to receive an air conditioner operation state data by using wireless communication to solve the inconvenience of transferring the wired communication with a device such as a laptop. By monitoring the operation of the air conditioner conveniently.

In the prior art (Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2010-0123486), an outdoor unit and a terminal existing within a predetermined distance from the outdoor unit communicate with each other by a wireless communication method, and transmit operation state data of the outdoor unit and indoor unit to the terminal.

In these communication structures, there is a problem that the indoor unit must pass through the outdoor unit without directly communicating with the controller. For example, even when one indoor unit data is required, there is a problem that the processing speed is slow because it is necessary to perform stepwise communication through the outdoor unit.

In addition, the prior art (Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2010-0123486), it is necessary to additionally attach a separate wireless communication module to the outdoor unit, there is a problem that the communication between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit still performs the wired communication.

In addition, with the Wi-Fi communication between the outdoor unit and the terminal, there is a problem that smooth communication is possible only within the same floor or within a short distance.

In particular, in a general installation environment where the outdoor unit is installed in the basement of the building or on the roof, it is difficult to communicate wirelessly due to the distance between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit, and the signal is attenuated due to obstacles in the building. There was a problem that the quality is lowered and thus the stability of the communication is reduced.

In recent years, attempts to communicate wirelessly between units have been increasing. Increasingly, a wireless network is formed not only with each unit such as an outdoor unit and a controller but also with other devices such as a mobile terminal.

Devices connected by wireless communication have an advantage of being able to check and control information of devices without being limited by the location of the user and the device.

Therefore, there is a need for a wireless communication scheme suitable for the installation environment of the air conditioner system.

In addition, depending on high-rise buildings, large buildings, and other installation environments, wireless communication shaded areas may occur where wireless communication is not performed smoothly. In this case, it may be necessary to install a repeater to eliminate wireless communication shadow areas.

Therefore, a method for determining whether a repeater is required in a wireless communication environment and efficiently installing a repeater is required.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner system and a control method thereof that can implement a high quality wireless communication environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to determine whether a repeater is necessary and to provide an air conditioner system and a control method thereof capable of efficiently installing a repeater when necessary.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner system and a control method thereof in which each unit can directly wirelessly communicate with each other regardless of an installation environment.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner system capable of monitoring and controlling units in a wireless communication environment and a method of controlling the same.

In order to achieve the above or another object, a control method of an air conditioner system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a mobile terminal transmitting a signal for requesting a communication performance test to an outdoor unit included in a predetermined group through a wireless communication module. The method may further include: transmitting, by the outdoor unit to a plurality of indoor units included in a predetermined group, a signal indicating the start of a communication performance test, broadcasting, by the outdoor unit, a plurality of communication performance test signals at predetermined time intervals, Responding to a plurality of indoor units, each signal to the outdoor unit, the signal containing the communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals, the outdoor unit includes a communication performance test result received from the plurality of indoor units to the mobile terminal Transmitting a signal, and a communication performance test result received by the mobile terminal from the outdoor unit; By including the step of displaying a screen, and make easier the communication performance, it can be determined whether the relay is required.

In a control method of an air conditioner system according to an aspect of the present invention, the mobile terminal transmits a signal indicating the start of individual communication performance test to a indoor unit and an outdoor unit included in a predetermined group through a wireless communication module, and moves. The terminal transmits the plurality of communication performance test signals to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit at predetermined time intervals, and the indoor unit and the outdoor unit each include a signal including the individual communication performance test results of the plurality of communication performance test signals to the mobile terminal. By including the step of responding, and the step of displaying the screen including the result of the individual communication performance test, the mobile terminal, it is possible to easily check the communication performance, and determine whether the repeater is necessary.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to implement a high quality wireless communication environment.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to determine whether the repeater is necessary, and to efficiently install the repeater if necessary.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner system and a control method thereof in which each unit can directly wirelessly communicate with each other regardless of an installation environment.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the units can be monitored and controlled in a wireless communication environment.

On the other hand, various other effects will be disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description according to the embodiment of the present invention to be described later.

1 is a view schematically showing a configuration in which an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a building.
2 is a view showing the configuration of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a view referred to for the description of the communication of the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a block diagram schematically showing a control configuration of a unit of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a block diagram schematically showing a control configuration of an indoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a control configuration of an outdoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a control configuration of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a simplified internal block diagram of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a view referred to in the description of the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a diagram referred to for describing a mobile terminal and a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
12 to 14 are views referred to in the description of the configuration and operation of the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the drawings, illustrations of parts not related to the description are omitted in order to clearly and briefly describe the present invention, and the same reference numerals are used for the same or extremely similar parts throughout the specification.

On the other hand, the suffixes "module" and "unit" for the components used in the following description are merely given in consideration of ease of preparation of the present specification, and do not give particular meanings or roles by themselves. Therefore, the "module" and "unit" may be used interchangeably.

Further, in this specification, terms such as first and second may be used to describe various elements, but such elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

1 is a view schematically showing a configuration in which an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a building.

Referring to FIG. 1, the air conditioner system may include an outdoor unit 10, an indoor unit 20, and a controller 50.

In addition to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, the air conditioner system may include a ventilator, an air cleaner, a humidifier, a heater, and the like, and may further include units such as chillers, air conditioning units, cooling towers, and the like, depending on the scale. The air conditioner system may operate in conjunction with the operation of the indoor unit and the outdoor unit by interconnecting each unit. In addition, the air conditioner system may operate in connection with a building, a mobile device, a security device, an alarm device, and the like.

An air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a remote control device capable of remotely monitoring and controlling an operation state of units, and the like.

The remote control device, including the wireless communication module 120, can communicate with other units using frequencies in the sub-giga bands and can monitor other units.

Here, the remote control device may be a controller 50 that can control one or more units, a wired / wireless remote control 60, and a mobile terminal 200.

The controller 50 controls the operations of the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 in response to the input user command, periodically receives and stores data on the operation states of the indoor unit and the outdoor unit corresponding thereto, and monitors the monitoring screen. Operation status can be output through The controller 50 may perform operation setting, lock setting, schedule control, group control, peak control on power usage, demand control, etc. for the indoor unit 20.

The outdoor unit 10 is connected to the indoor unit 20 by a refrigerant pipe, respectively, and supplies the refrigerant to the indoor unit 20. In addition, the outdoor unit 10 periodically communicates with the plurality of indoor units 20 to transmit and receive data to each other, and changes the operation according to the operation setting changed from the indoor unit.

The indoor unit 20 includes an electronic expansion valve (not shown) for expanding the refrigerant supplied from the outdoor unit 10, an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) for heat exchange of the refrigerant, and indoor air to be introduced into the indoor heat exchanger. An indoor unit fan (not shown) to be exposed to the interior, a plurality of sensors (not shown), it may include a control means (not shown) for controlling the operation of the indoor unit.

In addition, the indoor unit 20 includes a discharge port (not shown) for discharging the heat-exchanged air, the discharge hole is provided with a wind direction control means (not shown) for opening and closing the discharge port, and controls the direction of the discharged air. The indoor unit controls the intake air and the discharged air by controlling the rotation speed of the indoor unit fan, and adjusts the air volume. The indoor unit 20 may further include an output unit for displaying an operating state and setting information of the indoor unit and an input unit for inputting setting data. At this time, the indoor unit 20 may transmit the setting information for driving the air conditioner to a remote controller (not shown) to be connected, output it through the remote controller, and receive data.

The remote controller (not shown) is connected to the indoor unit by a wired or wireless communication method, inputs a user command to the indoor unit, and receives and outputs data of the indoor unit. The remote controller may transmit a user command to the indoor unit according to a connection method with the indoor unit, perform one-way communication not receiving data of the indoor unit, or perform two-way communication of transmitting and receiving data with the indoor unit.

The outdoor unit 10 operates in the cooling mode or the heating mode in response to data received from the connected indoor unit 20 or a control command of the controller, and supplies the refrigerant to the connected indoor unit.

When a plurality of outdoor units are connected, each outdoor unit may be connected to a plurality of indoor units, and may also supply refrigerant to the plurality of indoor units through a distributor.

The outdoor unit 10 includes at least one compressor that compresses a refrigerant to discharge a high-pressure gas refrigerant, an accumulator that separates the gas refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant from the refrigerant, and prevents the unvaporized liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor. An oil recoverer for recovering oil in the refrigerant, an outdoor heat exchanger that condenses or evaporates the refrigerant by heat exchange with outside air, and introduces air into the outdoor heat exchanger to smooth the heat exchange of the outdoor heat exchanger, The outdoor unit fan to discharge, the four-way valve to change the refrigerant flow path according to the operation mode of the outdoor unit, at least one pressure sensor to measure the pressure, at least one temperature sensor to measure the temperature, the operation of the outdoor unit and control the It may include a control configuration for performing communication. The outdoor unit 10 may further include other sensors, valves, subcoolers, etc., but a description thereof will be omitted below.

In addition, the air conditioner system may exchange data with another air conditioner through a network connection such as the Internet. The air conditioner may be connected to an external service center, management server, database, etc. through a controller, and may communicate with an external terminal connected through a network. The terminal may be connected to at least one unit of the air conditioner system to monitor and control the operation of the air conditioner system as a second controller.

In addition, the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, the controller 50 and the like can directly communicate with each other by a predetermined wireless communication method, the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, the controller 50 and the like The wireless communication method can directly communicate with the mobile terminal and the like. Accordingly, the user can freely monitor the state of each unit and control each unit through the mobile terminal.

An air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of indoor units 20 and at least one outdoor unit 10 that perform wireless communication with each other.

2 is a view showing the configuration of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2, in the air conditioner system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of indoor units 20, a plurality of outdoor units 10, and a controller 50 may transmit and receive data in a wireless communication manner.

The outdoor unit 10 is connected to each of the indoor units 20 and the refrigerant pipes P1, P2, and P3, and may transmit and receive data in a wireless communication method.

The outdoor unit 10 periodically communicates with the plurality of indoor units 20 to transmit and receive data to each other, and changes an operation according to an operation setting changed from the indoor unit. The plurality of outdoor units 10 and the plurality of indoor units 20 may transmit and receive data through a wireless communication method.

The indoor unit 20 may communicate not only with the outdoor unit 10 but also with the controller 50 in a wireless communication manner.

The first outdoor unit 10 is connected to the first to third indoor units 21 to 23 and the first refrigerant pipe P1, and the second outdoor unit 12 is connected to the fourth to sixth indoor units 23 to 26. 2 is connected to the refrigerant pipe (P2), the third outdoor unit 13 is connected to the seventh to ninth indoor unit (27 to 29) and the third refrigerant pipe (P3). For convenience of description, it is described that three indoor units are connected to each outdoor unit, but this is not limited to the number of indoor units or the type of the indoor unit, which is shown only as an example.

As the first outdoor unit 11 operates, refrigerant is supplied from the first outdoor unit 10 to the first to third indoor units, and the fourth to sixth indoor units 23 to 26 are operated by the operation of the second outdoor unit 12. The refrigerant is supplied through the second refrigerant pipe P2, and the refrigerant is supplied from the third outdoor unit 13 to the seventh to ninth indoor units 27 to 29 through the third refrigerant pipe P3.

In the air conditioner, groups may be set based on outdoor units, and each group may communicate using a different channel. Since the indoor unit performs heat exchange based on the coolant supplied from the outdoor unit to discharge cold and warm air, the indoor unit and the outdoor unit connected to the refrigerant pipe may be set as a group.

For example, the first outdoor unit 11 forms a first group with the first to third indoor units 21 to 23 connected to the first refrigerant pipe P1, and the second outdoor unit 12 forms the second refrigerant. The fourth to sixth indoor units 24 to 26 connected to the pipe P2 and the second group are formed, and the third outdoor unit 13 is the seventh to ninth indoor units connected to the third refrigerant pipe P3 ( 27 to 29) and the third group. The outdoor unit and the controller can also set the group according to the installation position. According to an embodiment, the connection state by the refrigerant pipe may be classified based on whether the temperature of the indoor unit changes according to the supply of the refrigerant of the outdoor unit by operating the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

Meanwhile, wireless communication may be performed between at least units included in the same group. In addition, the sub-group may be allocated for each group in which another communication channel is set in the frequency band. That is, by using different communication channels for each group, the trunk line phenomenon can be prevented.

Meanwhile, the controller 50 may communicate with the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 regardless of the group.

The controller 50 controls the operations of the indoor units 20 and the outdoor units 10 in response to the input user command, and periodically receives and stores data on the operating states of the indoor units and outdoor units corresponding thereto. Output the operation status through the monitoring screen.

The controller 50 may be connected to the plurality of indoor units 20 to perform operation setting, lock setting, schedule control, group control, peak control for power usage, demand control, etc. for the indoor unit. In addition, the controller 50 communicates with the outdoor unit to control the outdoor unit and monitor the operation of the outdoor unit.

When a plurality of controllers 50 are provided, the controller 50 may transmit and receive data through wireless communication with each other and may also be connected to an external controller through an external predetermined network.

When the controller and the plurality of units transmit and receive data in a wireless communication manner, an address for communication is stored in the controller and each unit. Each address may be assigned by the outdoor unit and the controller.

As described above, the outdoor unit may set a group with the indoor unit connected to the refrigerant pipe. In this case, an address may be allocated to the indoor unit included in the same group as the outdoor unit. In addition, even if the group is set around the outdoor unit, it communicates with all outdoor units and all indoor units. Accordingly, the controller may allocate the central control address to the plurality of units in addition to the address for the group unit communication. In some cases, the controller may use the address assigned to the outdoor unit and the indoor unit as the address for the central control without additional address assignment.

Meanwhile, each unit of the air conditioner system such as the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, and the controller 50 may wirelessly communicate with the mobile terminal 200.

2, the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, checks the state of the electronic device (unit) such as the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, the controller 50 and the electronic device in the system And it may include a mobile terminal 200 that can be controlled.

The mobile terminal 200 includes an application for controlling the air conditioner system, and can check and control the state of the air conditioner system through the execution of the application.

The mobile terminal 200 may be an example of a smart phone 200a, a notebook PC 200b, a tablet PC 200c, or the like, on which an application for an air conditioner system is mounted.

3 is a view referred to for the description of the communication of the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 (a) is a diagram showing the communication between units using wired communication and (b) of FIG. ) Is a diagram referred to for explaining communication between units using wireless communication according to the present invention.

Referring to Figure 3 (a), the air conditioner system is a plurality of units are connected to the communication line. Since a plurality of units are limited in connection of communication lines, they are not connected one-to-one, but are connected in stages according to the connection form of communication lines.

A plurality of indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit by a communication line, and the outdoor units are connected to a controller. When a plurality of outdoor units are provided, the plurality of indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit based on the connection state of the refrigerant pipe. The plurality of outdoor units are connected to the controller.

The indoor unit transmits data to the outdoor unit, and the outdoor unit transmits the outdoor unit data and the received indoor unit data to the controller. The controller may check the operation state of the indoor unit based on the data received from the outdoor unit.

When the controller transmits a control command to the indoor unit, the controller transmits a control command to the outdoor unit to which the indoor unit is connected, and the outdoor unit transmits the received control command to the indoor unit.

As such, in the case of wired communication, data is transmitted step by step according to the connection state of the communication line, rather than being connected one-to-one of a plurality of units.

As a result, data of the indoor unit cannot be transmitted directly, which causes a time delay in data transmission. In addition, since the outdoor unit must process data other than the outdoor unit data, the load increases accordingly. In addition, since one outdoor unit needs to process data of a plurality of indoor units, a large amount of time is required to transmit data according to the number of connected indoor units.

In addition, even when monitoring the status of the unit through the mobile terminal 200, since the data of the indoor unit is not directly transmitted, it is possible to transmit and receive data via the controller 50 or the like. Therefore, the mobile terminal 200 may not freely communicate with each unit of the air conditioner system, and in order to receive only the corresponding information from a specific unit or to obtain the entire information, there is a limitation that the mobile terminal 200 must communicate with the upper controller 50. have.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20, the controller 50, and the mobile terminal 200 transmit and receive data in a wireless communication manner.

The controller 50 and / or the mobile terminal 200 may request data from the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20, and each unit based on data received from the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20, respectively. The operation state of the can be determined, and the abnormality can be determined.

As described above, setting the group in the outdoor unit and the indoor period in consideration of the flow of the refrigerant has been described. In addition to the communication channel between the outdoor unit and the indoor period, a communication channel including the controller, the outdoor unit, and the indoor unit may be separately set.

The controller 50 and / or the mobile terminal 200 may set the operation of the indoor unit 20 according to the state (temperature or humidity) of the indoor space in which the indoor unit 20 is installed based on the data received from the indoor unit 20. It can be changed, and the data according to the change of operation setting is transmitted directly to the indoor unit. At this time, if the indoor unit changes the operation setting, the indoor unit transmits the corresponding data to the outdoor unit, and accordingly the outdoor unit also changes the operation.

The controller 50 may transmit a driving command to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit connected to the indoor unit when the indoor unit 20 is set to perform a set operation at a specified time, and the indoor unit transmits a response thereto to the controller 50. And transmits data on an operation state at predetermined time intervals.

The indoor unit 20 sets up operation and transmits data to the outdoor unit in response to data input through the input unit provided or data received from the controller 50.

The outdoor unit 10 controls the compressor by calculating the data of the received indoor unit and the load according to the operation state of the plurality of indoor units.

The outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 may transmit data to the controller 50 at predetermined time intervals, and may transmit data on the failure or abnormality to the controller 50 regardless of the period when the failure or abnormality occurs.

4 is a block diagram schematically showing a control configuration of a unit of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be a unit 100 in an air conditioner system. For example, the electronic device may be one of an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a controller, and a wireless sensor of the air conditioner system.

Referring to FIG. 4, the unit 100 of the air conditioner system includes a driving unit 140, a sensing unit 170, an output unit 160, an input unit 150, a storage unit 130, and an overall operation. It may include a control unit 110 for controlling.

In addition, the unit 100 may include a wireless communication module 120 or may be connected to the wireless communication module 120. The wireless communication module 120 may be built in the unit or installed outside of the unit.

This is a configuration commonly included in each unit 100, a separate configuration may be added according to the characteristics of the product.

For example, the indoor unit 20 may be provided with vanes as a wind direction adjusting means, and the indoor unit fan driving unit, a valve control unit, a wind direction control unit, etc. may be provided as the indoor unit fan and the plurality of valves are provided.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit 10 may include a compressor, an outdoor unit fan, and a plurality of valves. Accordingly, the driving unit of the outdoor unit may be classified into a compressor driving unit, an outdoor unit fan driving unit, and a valve control unit.

On the other hand, according to the type of the unit, the type of the sensor included in the sensing unit 170, the number, the installation position may be configured differently.

In the storage unit 130, control data for controlling the operation of the unit 100, communication data for address or group setting for communicating with other units, data transmitted / received from the outside, operation data generated or detected during operation Is stored. The storage unit 130 stores execution programs for each function of the unit, data for operation control, and data transmitted and received.

The storage unit 130 may be various storage devices such as a ROM, a RAM, an EPROM, a flash drive, a hard drive, and the like, in hardware.

The input unit 150 includes at least one input means such as a button, a switch, and a touch input means. When a user command or predetermined data is input in response to an operation of the input means, the input unit 150 applies the input data to the controller 110. The outdoor unit may be provided with a power key, a test drive key, an address setting key, and the indoor unit may be provided with a power key, a menu input key, an operation setting key, a temperature control key, a wind volume key, a lock key, and the like.

 The output unit 160 may output at least one of an operation state of the unit, including at least one of a lamp that is turned on or blinks, an audio output unit including a speaker for outputting a predetermined sound, and a display. The lamp outputs whether the unit is in operation according to whether the lamp is lit, whether the lamp is lit or not, and the speaker outputs an operation state by outputting a predetermined warning sound and an effect sound. The display may output a menu screen for controlling the unit, and output a guide message or a warning composed of at least one combination of letters, numbers, and images of the operation setting or operation state of the unit.

The sensing unit 170 may include a plurality of sensors. The sensing unit 170 may include a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, a humidity sensor, and a flow sensor.

For example, the temperature sensor is provided in plurality, and detects the indoor temperature, the outdoor temperature, the indoor heat exchanger temperature, the outdoor heat exchanger temperature, and the pipe temperature and inputs the same to the controller 110. Pressure sensors are installed at the inlet and outlet of the refrigerant pipe, respectively, and measure the pressure of the incoming refrigerant and the pressure of the discharged refrigerant and input them to the controller 110. The pressure sensor may be installed in the water pipe as well as the refrigerant pipe.

The driver 140 supplies operating power to the control target according to the control command of the controller 110 and controls the driving thereof. As described above, in the outdoor unit, the driving unit 140 may be provided separately from the compressor driving unit, the outdoor unit fan driving unit, the valve control unit for controlling the compressor, the outdoor unit fan, and the valve, respectively. The driving unit 140 applies operating power to a motor provided in each of the compressor, the outdoor unit fan, the valve, and the like to perform a specified operation as the motor operates.

5 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a control configuration of an indoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates a case in which the unit 100 is an indoor unit 100a.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the driving unit 140 of FIG. 4 when the unit 100 is the indoor unit 100a, and the description of the same parts as FIG. 4 will be omitted below.

Referring to FIG. 5, the indoor unit 100a may include a vane driver 141a, a fan driver 142a, an indoor unit fan 142b, and one or more vanes 141b.

The indoor unit fan 142b discharges the cold / hot air heat exchanged by the heat exchanger into the room through the discharge port.

The fan driver 142a controls the driving of the motor for operating the indoor unit fan 142b. The fan driver 142a controls on / off of the indoor unit fan 142b in response to a control signal of the controller 110 and controls the indoor unit fan 142b to operate at a set speed.

The vane driver 141a controls the opening and closing of one or more vanes 141b provided in one or more discharge ports in response to the control signal of the controller 110. In addition, the vane driving unit 141a controls the opening angle with respect to each of the vanes 141b to change the discharged wind direction. The vane 141b has an opening angle varied by the vane driver 141a to change the wind direction of the discharged air. At this time, each discharge port may be further provided with a louver for adjusting the wind direction in the left and right directions.

The vane 141b may be set to an opening angle within a range of 0 degrees to 90 degrees, respectively, and the opening angle may be changed in stages according to the setting.

The vane driver 141a may change the opening angle of each vane 141b in steps according to the control command of the controller 110.

For example, the vane driver 141a may control the opening angle of the vane in five steps within a range of 15 to 75 degrees in 15 degree units. The opening angle of the vane 141b may be set in three to nine steps depending on the setting. In addition, when the swing mode is set, the vane driver 141a may continuously change the opening angle of the vane within a range of 15 degrees to 75 degrees without step division.

6 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a control configuration of an outdoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates a case in which the unit 100 is an outdoor unit 100b.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of the driving unit 140 of FIG. 4 when the unit 100 is the outdoor unit 100b, and the description of the same parts as FIG. 4 will be omitted below.

Referring to FIG. 6, the outdoor unit 100b may include a compressor driving unit 143a, a compressor 143b, an outdoor unit fan 144b, a fan driving unit 144a, a valve control unit 145a, and a valve 145b. .

The outdoor unit fan 144b supplies outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger through a rotation operation of the fan, and allows the heat-exchanged cold and hot air to be discharged to the outside. As the outdoor heat exchanger operates as a condenser during the cooling operation and as an evaporator during the heating operation, the outdoor unit fan 144b may discharge the cold air or the warm heat exchanged from the outdoor heat exchanger to the outside.

The fan driver 144a may control the driving of the motor provided in the outdoor unit fan 144b to control the rotation operation of the outdoor unit fan. The fan driver 144a may allow the outdoor unit fan 144b to operate or stop at a set rotation speed in response to a control signal of the controller 110. The fan driver 144a may apply an operation signal according to the type of the motor provided in the outdoor unit fan 144b to control the rotation speed of the outdoor unit fan 144b.

The valve control unit 145a may control whether or not to open or close the plurality of valves 145b provided in the outdoor unit, thereby controlling the flow rate of the refrigerant or the flow direction of the refrigerant. Since the valve 145b is provided in plurality in different positions, the valve driving unit may also be provided in plurality. The valve may include a four-way valve, expansion valve, hot gas valve and the like.

The compressor 143b may compress and discharge the introduced refrigerant, thereby allowing the refrigerant to circulate from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. When the low temperature low pressure gas refrigerant flows into the compressor 143b, the compressor 143b may compress the high pressure gas refrigerant to discharge the high temperature and high pressure gas refrigerant.

The compressor driver 143a controls the operating power supplied to the motor provided in the compressor 143b, and thus controls the operating frequency of the compressor. The compressor driver 143a may include an inverter that controls driving of the compressor.

4 to 6, each unit may include a wireless communication module 120.

The wireless communication module 120 supports at least one wireless communication scheme and may communicate with other units according to a control command of the controller 110. The wireless communication module 120 may transmit and receive data between the controller, the outdoor unit, and the indoor unit in a designated wireless communication method, and apply the received data to the controller.

The wireless communication module 120 may set an address for communication between units, convert data transmitted and received, and process a signal. When the wireless communication module 120 starts to operate the unit, the wireless communication module 120 may search for a unit having the same frequency band and check the connection through wireless communication. The wireless communication module 120 may communicate by assigning a temporary address or setting a temporary address received during an initial operation. In addition, when performing the address setting in response to the control command of the control unit 110, the wireless communication module 120 may request the product number to the control unit 110 to set the address based on the product number. In this case, the product number may be a unique number, a serial number, or a mac address of the unit.

The controller 110 may control data input and output through the input unit 150 and the output unit 160, manage data stored in the storage unit 130, and control transmission and reception of data through the communication unit 200. have. The controller 110 may detect a connection state and a communication state of the communication unit 200 through the connection unit 120 and determine an error.

The controller 110 may generate and apply a control command to the driver 140 to operate according to a request from another unit or a set operation setting. Accordingly, the driving unit 140 is connected to the configuration, for example, to operate the compressor, outdoor unit fan, valve, indoor unit fan, wind direction control means, respectively.

In addition, the controller 110 may determine an operation state in response to data input from the plurality of sensors of the sensing unit 170 while the unit is in operation, and determine an abnormality to output an error.

The wireless communication module 120 may be provided inside the unit 100 or connected to the unit 100 through an interface (not shown). The wireless communication module 120 may receive and transmit data of a unit through an interface and apply the received data to the unit.

Preferably, the wireless communication module 120 may communicate wirelessly using a frequency of the sub-GHz band so as to be able to communicate with a wall, a floor, an obstacle, etc. in the building. The frequency of the sub-giga band is excellent in the transmission and rotation characteristics, so that the damping effect on the wall or interlayer obstacles is small. Therefore, it is effective for use in the communication of an air conditioner system in which a plurality of units are arranged in a wall partitioned building.

Meanwhile, the wireless communication module 120 may use a frequency in the 700 MHz band to the 900 MHz band among the sub giga bands. For example, the wireless communication module 120 may communicate according to the 802.15.4g standard (SUN), the 802.11ah standard (HaLow).

In addition, the wireless communication module 120 communicates using any one of the 400MHz band and the 900MHz band, which is an unlicensed band that can be utilized for a low power wireless station among sub-giga bands. The wireless communication module 120 may optionally use frequencies in the 400MHZ and 900MHZ bands, corresponding to different regulations depending on regions or countries.

The wireless communication module 120 more preferably communicates using a frequency band of 900 MHz among the above-described frequency bands in consideration of inter-layer communication and antenna length.

According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 120 may further include a communication module such as Zigbee, Bluetooth, or NFC, which is a short range communication method.

The wireless communication module 120 may include a plurality of communication modules, and may communicate with each other through the same or different communication modules when communicating with an outdoor unit and another indoor unit, communicating with a remote controller, or communicating with a controller. The wireless communication module 120 selectively communicates with each other by changing a communication method in correspondence with a communication object.

When using different channels in communication with the indoor unit and communication with the controller, the wireless communication module 120 may transmit and receive data by setting channels according to targets to communicate with each other.

According to the Radio Law Regulations of the Republic of Korea, 21 channels of 424.7 MHz to 424.95 MHz, 11 channels of 447.8625 MHz to 447.9875 MHz, and RFID for the radio equipment for specific low-power radio stations for data transmission in the 400 MHz or 900 MHz frequency band. Since there are 32 channels of 917 to 923.5 MHz for radio facilities such as / USN, communication can be performed using these channels.

Looking at the country's unlicensed frequency band, North and South America is 902 to 928 MHz (FCC Part 15.247), Europe 433 MHz, 915 MHz, 863 to 868 MHz (ETSIEN300220), Japan 920 to 928 MHz (ARIB STD-T108), China 920 MHz Korea 424-447 MHz, 917-923.5 MHz (KC), India 865-867 MHz (GSR 564 (E)), Australia 433, 915MHZ, South Africa 433 MHz, worldwide 2.4GHz and 5.725GHz are available.

In addition, in North and South America, 902 to 928 MHz, Europe 863 to 868 MHz, Japan 920 to 928 MHz, Korea 917 to 923.5 MHz, India 865 to 867 MHz worldwide, using 2.4 GHz and 5.725 GHz transmission rate 50kbps Communication is possible as above.

Since there are obstacles such as floor walls and furniture in a building, it is necessary to use a frequency band that can reach a certain distance or more while passing an obstacle in the building.

Among the sub-giga band, the ISM band (100MHz, 200MHz, 400MHz, 900MHz) has the advantage that the inter-floor communication is possible because of excellent transmission characteristics in the building. However, the length of the antenna is determined according to the band of the transmission frequency. In the case of the 100 MHz and 200 MHz bands, the antenna becomes considerably longer, which causes installation limitations.

The 400 MHz band also has longer antenna length than the 900 MHz frequency band.

Accordingly, the wireless communication module 120 preferably communicates using a frequency band of 900 MHz among the above-described frequency bands in consideration of inter-layer communication and antenna length.

An air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of units. For example, an air conditioner system may include one or more outdoor units and a plurality of indoor units.

In addition, the units included in the air conditioner system may perform wireless communication with each other.

On the other hand, considering the installation environment of the air conditioner system in which the outdoor unit is disposed underground, rooftop, outdoor, etc., short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi and Zigbee cannot implement smooth wireless communication between units. .

Accordingly, the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may implement direct / indirect communication between units in various environments such as home / building through long range wireless communication in a sub GHz band.

In addition, considering the installation environment of the air conditioner system, in order to ensure the reliability of the communication quality, the wireless communication modulation technique that has robust reliability against obstacles and changes in the surrounding environment, such as object, people movement, change of building structure, etc. It is necessary to apply.

In addition, in order to use a limited number of radio frequency resources efficiently and install a large number of units in an area, it is necessary to increase the communication speed compared to the existing long distance wired communication.

Therefore, the present invention can be installed more easily and at low cost, and can be freely monitored and diagnosed in a room without restrictions on the place, and between units in a building to which an optimal solution of wireless communication that can pass through walls and floors in a building is applied. We propose a long range wireless communication technology for communication.

To this end, the plurality of units included in the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a wireless communication module 120 for wirelessly communicating at a frequency of a sub Giga band between the plurality of units. Can be.

 7 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a control configuration of a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7, the wireless communication module 120 may include an antenna 720, a transmitter 740, a receiver 730, a processor 710, and an interface 750.

The processor 710 may control overall operations of the wireless communication module 120.

In addition, the processor 710 may control the transmitter 740 to control a predetermined signal to be output through the antenna 720.

In addition, the processor 710 may control the receiver 730 to process a signal received through the antenna 720.

The antenna 720 may be a PCB antenna having an antenna pattern formed on a printed circuit board (PCB). PCB antenna has the advantage of higher design freedom than other methods, the radiation pattern is constant by adjusting the amount of ground (Groud source).

On the other hand, the transmitter 740 includes an encoder 741 for encoding a predetermined signal, and an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) method using a multicarrier for the signal encoded by the encoder 741. The modulation unit 742 may be modulated accordingly.

Meanwhile, the antenna 720 may output a signal based on the signal modulated by the modulator 742.

The predetermined signal is input to the encoder 741 as a binary signal. The encoder 741 may output an encoded data string by encoding an input signal.

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a multi-carrier modulation, which is advantageous for high-speed data transmission and robust to multipath loss.

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a method of multiplexing a high-speed transmission signal by modulating several hundred or more orthogonal narrowband subcarriers.

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a transmission technique that performs modulation and multiplexing, and is a multi-carrier modulation technique in that a high-speed source data stream of a single input is divided and transmitted on multiple carriers. It is a multiplexing technique in that it transmits simultaneously on a channel.

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) divides a data stream with a high data rate into a large number of data streams with a low data rate and transmits them simultaneously using multiple carriers.

Since orthogonality exists between the plurality of carriers, the frequency components of the carriers can be detected at the receiving end even if they overlap each other.

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a structure in which high-speed data vulnerable to scattered reflected waves are transmitted in parallel as low-speed data resistant to reflected waves, and thus, each subcarrier can be selectively scheduled.

According to an embodiment, the transmitter 740 may further include a multiplexer 743 for multiplexing the modulated signal. Alternatively, the transmitter 740 may further include a serial to parallel converter (not shown) for converting the multiplexed signal into a parallel signal. Alternatively, the transmitter 740 may further include a multiplexer 743 and a serial-to-parallel converter.

The serial-to-parallel converter may convert a symbol string that is serially input in parallel.

For example, a data sequence having a high data rate may be converted into a plurality of low data rate sequences through a serial to parallel converter, and the plurality of data sequences converted in parallel may be carried on a subcarrier having mutual orthogonality. .

The transmitter 740 may further include a transmission signal processor 745. The transmission signal processor 745 may load an OFDM modulated signal on a subcarrier through frequency shift and transmit the same through an antenna 720.

Meanwhile, the receiver 730 includes a demodulator 733 that demodulates the signal received from the antenna 720 by the orthogonal frequency division multiplexing method, and a decoder that decodes the signal demodulated by the demodulator 733. 734 may be included.

The receiver 730 may further include a reception signal processor 731. The received signal processor 731 may extract a plurality of characteristic information by frequency shifting the carrier wave received from the antenna 720.

According to an embodiment, the receiver 730 may further include a parallel to serial converter (not shown), and the parallel signal converted by the parallel to serial converter may be transmitted to the demodulator 733. Can be.

According to an embodiment, the transmitter 740 may further include an inverse fast Fourier transform unit 744 that performs an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) on the modulated signal, and the receiver 730. ) May further include a Fourier transform unit 732 for fast Fourier transform (FFT) of the signal received from the antenna 720.

 After modulation, the inverse fast Fourier transformed signal may be transmitted via antenna 720, and the signal received through antenna 720 may be demodulated after Fast Fourier transformed.

Accordingly, efficient digital implementation of the modulator 742 and the demodulator 733 is possible. In addition, by performing signal processing in a frequency domain on a channel showing frequency-selective fading, the channel may be simply converted to flat-fading to facilitate signal processing.

According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 120 may further include a duplexer (not shown), which is a switching element that connects the antenna 720 and the transmitter 740 or the receiver 730. The duplexer is a device that separates time or frequency according to a scheme, and may connect the antenna 720 to the transmitter 740 side or the receiver 730 side.

On the other hand, the wireless communication module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the frequency of the sub 1GHz frequency of the communication speed is faster than the existing wired communication (9.6kbps), the long-distance (Open space 1km) is a frequency capable of communication from 700Mhz to It can communicate using signals of 900Mhz frequency band.

More preferably, the wireless communication module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention may communicate using signals of a 900 MHz frequency band in consideration of inter-layer communication and antenna length.

The length of the antenna 720 is set according to the transmission frequency, the length needs to be set in consideration of the installation environment. For example, in the case of a ceiling type indoor unit, if the length of the antenna is too long, whether or not the installation can depend on the size of the interior space of the ceiling.

Since the antenna 720 has a longer antenna length as the transmission frequency is smaller, the frequency should be set in consideration of the length of the antenna among usable frequency bands.

Preferably the antenna length may be λ / 2 or λ / 4 of the transmission frequency. For example, when the transmission frequency is 447 MHz, the wavelength is 0.67 m. Therefore, when λ / 2 is calculated, the length of the antenna is 34 cm, and in the case of λ / 4, 17 cm. In the 900 MHz band, the antenna length may be about 17 cm for λ / 2 and about 8.5 cm for λ / 4. When the transmission frequency is 2.4 GHZ, the wavelength is 0.12 m. Therefore, the length of the antenna is 0.06 m for λ / 2 and 0.03 m for λ / 4.

Given the length of the antenna, it would be desirable to use signals in the 2.4 GHz band, but for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology using the 2.4 GHz ISM band for wireless networks in buildings, the 2.4 GHz band propagates in the floor, window, wall, There is a problem that a tendency to be reflected or diffracted by obstacles such as partitions is strong, and there is a limit of reach within a building.

In addition, since the 2.4GHz band does not require a separate license to use the frequency, there is an increasing number of wireless devices that use it, and interference between devices becomes a problem.

Accordingly, the wireless communication module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention uses a frequency of 900 MHz band, and the length of the antenna 720 is λ / 2 or λ / 4 of the 900 MHz band transmission frequency. Do.

According to an embodiment, the antenna 720 may be installed inside the unit. For example, the antenna 720 may be disposed inside the main body case of the outdoor unit or the indoor unit without protruding from or attached to the outside.

In particular, the antenna included in the indoor unit may be disposed inside the main body case of the indoor unit. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the antenna protruding or attached to the outside from adversely affecting the interior, and enhance the aesthetics.

In the air conditioner system, a plurality of units may transmit and receive data in a mutual wireless communication method. According to one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of units may be distributedly arranged in at least two layers. For example, the outdoor unit may be disposed on the roof of the building, and the indoor unit may be disposed on any floor inside the building. In addition, a plurality of indoor units may also be distributed in several layers.

Accordingly, the plurality of units are not installed on a single floor but are respectively installed on a plurality of floors to transmit and receive data. Since there are obstacles such as inter-layer structures, walls, and furniture in the building, it is necessary to use a frequency band through which the signal can reach a certain distance while passing through the obstacle in the building.

The antenna 720 may be selectively used according to the frequency band used among the 700 MHz to 900 MHz bands of the sub-group. The shape of the antenna may be changed depending on the frequency band used.

The antenna 720 may transmit a signal output from the transmitter 740 to the air, receive a signal of a designated frequency band in the air, and apply the signal to the receiver 730.

The transmitter 740 and the receiver 730 may control the output of a signal to be transmitted according to a control command of the processor 710. The transmitter 7405 may adjust the output of the signal by controlling the output impedance, that is, the impedance of the antenna 720 to have a set value. The transmitter 740 and the receiver 730 may adjust the impedance according to a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the antenna 720. Impedance matching can use the most widely known 50Ω matching scheme.

According to an embodiment, the antenna 720 may be a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna and may increase transmission capacity by transmitting data in parallel through each antenna.

The transmitter 740 and the receiver 730 are communication modules that support MIMO, and are capable of multiple inputs and outputs through a plurality of antennas connected thereto. The transmitter 740 may transmit data through multiple paths through a plurality of antennas, and detect a signal received in each path from the receiver 730.

MIMO is an antenna system capable of spatial multiplexing, space diversity, and beam forming.

Spatial multiplexing is a technique for improving transmission speed by transmitting a plurality of information through a plurality of transmission antennas, and space diversity is a technique for controlling errors by transmitting the same information multiple times through a plurality of transmission antennas. Beamforming is a technique for reducing interference by transmitting radio waves in a desired direction.

The wireless communication module 120 may communicate with a plurality of units distributed and installed in a building, etc. as a signal is transmitted and received using a plurality of antennas through MIMO.

The processor 710 may control the data output from the unit 100 applied through the interface 750 to be output as a signal having a designated frequency band as a set output. In addition, the processor 710 may process and apply a signal received through the antenna 720 to the unit. In addition, the processor 710 may control to convert the data into a designated form according to the communication method used.

The interface 750 connects the unit 100 and the communication unit 120. For example, the wireless communication module 120 may be connected to the control unit 110 of the unit 100 through the interface 750, and the wireless communication module 120 may operate under the control of the control unit 110. have.

In the conventional wired communication, a plurality of units are hierarchically connected according to a connection state of a communication line, rather than being connected one-to-one of a plurality of units.

Accordingly, since the indoor unit data is not directly transmitted to the controller or the remote control device, a time delay occurs in data transmission.

In addition, the processing load of the outdoor unit increases, there is a limit that takes a long time to transmit data according to the number of the indoor unit connected.

Therefore, units included in the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may perform wireless communication with each other.

Preferably, units included in an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may perform wireless communication with each other using a frequency band of a sub-giga band.

More preferably, the units included in the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention include a wireless communication module 120 for performing wireless communication with each other using a frequency band of a sub-giga band, The communication module 120 may use an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation scheme that includes a PCB antenna that is easy to manage radiation patterns and is advantageous in securing gain, and has low inter-channel interference in multiple channels.

Conventional 2.4Ghz, 5Ghz band is for indoor short-range within about 30m, there is a disadvantage that the signal strength is sharply lowered even if it does not pass through the thick wall or thin wall.

However, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by performing a wireless communication using the frequency band of the sub-giga band, while being able to perform communication at a speed of about 15 times faster as about 150 Kbps, compared to about 9.6 Kbps wired communication speed Even if there are obstacles between layers, communication is possible.

In addition, the process of connecting the communication line and the communication line can be eliminated, reducing the installation cost and installation time, it is possible to reduce the overall cost.

8 is a simplified internal block diagram of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8, the mobile terminal 200 may include a wireless communication unit 210, an A / V input unit 220, a user input unit 230, a sensing unit 240, an output unit 250, The memory 260 may include an interface unit 270, a controller 280, and a power supply unit 290.

The mobile terminal 200 according to an aspect of the present invention may include a wireless communication module 300 for wireless communication with a plurality of electronic devices. The wireless communication module 300 may have the same internal configuration as the wireless communication module 120 described above.

According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 300 may be configured as one block of the wireless communication unit 210.

When each unit 100 in the air conditioner system wirelessly communicates in a sub-giga band, a wireless communication module 300 that supports wireless communication in the sub-giga band may be used. Since all general-purpose mobile terminals 200 are equipped with a wireless communication module 300 supporting sub-giga band wireless communication, it is difficult to release them. Therefore, it is preferable to connect and use a dedicated wireless communication module 300. Do.

In this case, the wireless communication module 300 may be connected through the interface unit 270 or may be connected through the wireless communication unit 210.

The wireless communication unit 210 may include a broadcast reception module 211, a mobile communication module 213, a wireless internet module 215, a short range communication module 217, a GPS module 219, and the like.

The broadcast receiving module 211 may receive at least one of a broadcast signal and broadcast related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. In this case, the broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, a terrestrial channel, and the like.

The broadcast signal and / or broadcast related information received through the broadcast receiving module 211 may be stored in the memory 260.

The mobile communication module 213 transmits and receives a radio signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. Here, the wireless signal may include various types of data according to voice call signal, video call signal, or text / multimedia message transmission and reception.

The wireless internet module 215 refers to a module for wireless internet access, and the wireless internet module 215 may be embedded or external to the mobile terminal 200. For example, the wireless internet module 215 may perform Wi-Fi based wireless communication or Wi-Fi Direct based wireless communication.

The short range communication module 217 is for short range communication, and includes Bluetooth ™, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and NFC. (Near Field Communication), at least one of Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technology can be used to support short-range communication.

The short-range communication module 217 may be provided between a mobile terminal 200 and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 200 and another mobile terminal 200, or through the wireless area networks. ) And another mobile terminal or a network in which an external server is located. The short range wireless communication network may be short range wireless personal area networks.

The global position system (GPS) module 219 may receive location information from a plurality of GPS satellites.

Meanwhile, the wireless communication unit 210 may exchange data with a server using one or more communication modules.

The wireless communication unit 210 may include an antenna 205 for wireless communication, and may include an antenna for receiving a broadcast signal in addition to an antenna for a call.

The A / V input unit 220 is for inputting an audio signal or a video signal, and may include a camera 221 and a microphone 223.

The user input unit 230 generates key input data input by the user for controlling the operation of the terminal. To this end, the user input unit 230 may include a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (constant voltage / capacitance), and the like. In particular, when the touch pad forms a mutual layer structure with the display unit 251, this may be referred to as a touch screen.

The sensing unit 240 detects a current state of the mobile terminal 200 such as an open / closed state of the mobile terminal 200, a location of the mobile terminal 200, presence or absence of user contact, and the like to control the operation of the mobile terminal 200. The sensing signal may be generated.

The sensing unit 240 may include a detection sensor 241, a pressure sensor 243, a motion sensor 245, and the like. The motion sensor 245 may detect a movement or position of the mobile terminal 200 using an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a gravity sensor, or the like. In particular, the gyro sensor is a sensor for measuring the angular velocity, and may sense a direction (angle) returned with respect to the reference direction.

The output unit 250 may include a display unit 251, an audio output module 253, an alarm unit 255, and a haptic module 257.

The display unit 251 displays and outputs information processed by the mobile terminal 200.

Meanwhile, when the display unit 251 and the touch pad form a mutual layer structure and constitute a touch screen, the display unit 251 may be used as an input device capable of inputting information by a user's touch in addition to the output device.

The sound output module 253 outputs audio data received from the wireless communication unit 210 or stored in the memory 260. The sound output module 253 may include a speaker, a buzzer, and the like.

The alarm unit 255 outputs a signal for notifying occurrence of an event of the mobile terminal 200. For example, the signal may be output in the form of vibration. .

The haptic module 257 generates various tactile effects that a user can feel. A representative example of the haptic effect generated by the haptic module 257 is a vibration effect.

The memory 260 may store a program for processing and controlling the controller 280, and may provide a function for temporarily storing input or output data (eg, a phone book, a message, a still image, a video, etc.). It can also be done.

The interface unit 270 serves as an interface with all external devices connected to the mobile terminal 200. The interface unit 270 may receive data from such an external device or receive power to transfer the data to each component inside the mobile terminal 200, and may transmit data within the mobile terminal 200 to an external device. .

The controller 280 typically controls the operations of each unit to control the overall operation of the mobile terminal 200. For example, related control and processing for voice calls, data communications, video calls, and the like can be performed. In addition, the controller 280 may include a multimedia playback module 281 for multimedia playback. The multimedia playback module 281 may be configured in hardware in the controller 280 or may be configured in software separately from the controller 280.

The power supply unit 290 receives an external power source and an internal power source under the control of the controller 280 to supply power for operation of each component.

Meanwhile, a block diagram of the mobile terminal 200 shown in FIG. 8 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the present invention. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the mobile terminal 200 that is actually implemented.

That is, two or more components may be combined into one component as needed, or one component may be divided into two or more components. In addition, the function performed in each block is for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, the specific operation or device does not limit the scope of the present invention.

9 is a view referred to in the description of the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

9, an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an indoor unit 20, an outdoor unit 10, a remote controller 60, a wireless sensor 80, and a mobile terminal 200. Can be.

In addition, the air conditioner system may further include a unit such as a controller, a ventilator, a defroster, a humidifier, a heater, and the like.

The remote controller 60 may be connected to the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 in a wired manner to transmit a control signal, but more preferably wirelessly.

As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, the mobile terminal 200 and the controller (see 50 of FIG. 1) may be wirelessly connected to units such as the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 to control each unit. have.

When the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 have received data information from the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may transmit the requested data information. The indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may transmit different contents of the data information to be transmitted according to the contents of the request of the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50.

The indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 receive control signals from the mobile terminal 200 and the controller 50. When the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 receive the control signal from the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may report to the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 that the control signal has been received. The present invention is not limited thereto and may vary depending on the communication method adopted by the air conditioner system.

When the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 receive the control signal, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may perform an operation corresponding thereto. The indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may receive a storage cycle or a storage period for storing a data signal including a driving state from the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50. The indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may store data information when a periodic or error occurs.

When an error occurs, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may extend the storage period of recently stored data information. The indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may include a storage medium that stores data information. For example, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may periodically store data information. When an error occurs, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10 may store the recently stored data information separately from other information, but is not limited thereto.

The data information may include an operating state of the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10. For example, the data information may include, but is not limited to, air temperature, condensation temperature, evaporation temperature, discharge temperature, heat exchanger temperature, and the like. May contain information.

The indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 may transmit data information including a driving state to the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50. The indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 may transmit it to the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 when the on / off state or the driving state is changed or when an error occurs. The indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 may communicate with the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 when an event occurs or according to a predetermined period.

The mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may receive detailed cycle data capable of diagnosing failure of each unit in real time and display it on the screen.

When the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 displays the data information using characters such as numerical values, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 displays data information of the indoor unit 20, data information of the outdoor unit 10, the indoor unit 20 and the outdoor unit 10, and the like. Valve information of the pipe to be connected can be displayed.

According to an exemplary embodiment, when the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 displays the valve information, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may display the opening or closing of the valve in color or picture. For example, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may display blue when the valve is opened, gray when the valve is closed, or display the opening or closing of the valve in a graphic form. It is not limited to kind.

When the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 displays the data information in a time series image, the outdoor unit 10 or the indoor unit 20 to be displayed may be selected.

When the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 selects the outdoor unit 10 to be displayed among the plurality of outdoor units 10, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 selects the indoor unit 20 to be checked among the one or more indoor units 20 connected to the selected outdoor unit 10. You can choose.

When the outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 are selected, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 includes an operating state of the selected indoor unit 20 and a connection state of the selected outdoor unit 10 and the selected indoor unit 20. Data information can be received. The connection state may include, but is not limited to, a connection state of a pipe, a flow in the pipe, on / off of a valve, and the like.

The mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may display the operation state of the selected outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20 in time series with a change in a picture or a change in color. The mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may display a pipe state or a valve state connecting the selected outdoor unit 10 and the indoor unit 20.

The mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may check the operating state of the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 in real time. When the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 checks the operating state of the indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 in real time, the mobile terminal 200 or the controller 50 may receive data information in real time and display the received data information.

The wireless sensor 80 may detect an air condition and transmit air condition data corresponding to the detected air condition.

The air state may be a concept including at least one of temperature, humidity, air pressure, amount of dust, amount of carbon dioxide, and amount of oxygen. Accordingly, the wireless sensor 80 may measure at least one of temperature, humidity, air pressure, amount of dust, amount of carbon dioxide, and amount of oxygen.

The air state data may include data for at least one of temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, amount of dust, amount of carbon dioxide, and amount of oxygen.

The wireless sensor 80 may transmit air condition data in a broadcast manner. The broadcast method may be a method of transmitting data without specifying a reception target. The wireless sensor 80 can save the energy, operation, and components necessary to set the reception target of the data by transmitting the air state data to the specific communication network without specifying the reception target.

The air condition data broadcast by the wireless sensor 80 may be transmitted to the outdoor unit 100 or the indoor unit 200.

In addition, air state data broadcast by the wireless sensor 80 may be transmitted to the controller 50 or the mobile terminal 200.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the wireless sensor 80 may also include the wireless communication module 120 described above.

The wireless sensor 80 may include the wireless communication module 120 to transmit sensing data to at least one unit of the plurality of units.

Alternatively, the one or more wireless sensors 80 for transmitting sensing data to at least one of the plurality of units may include an encoding unit encoding a predetermined signal and an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing using a multicarrier on the signal encoded by the encoding unit. An antenna pattern may be formed on a modulation unit and a printed circuit board (PCB) for modulating according to a scheme, and may include one or more antennas for outputting a signal based on the modulated signal.

That is, the wireless sensor 80 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include the remaining components except for the receiver 730 in the wireless communication module 120 to perform a function of transmitting sensing data.

The indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 may perform appropriate air conditioning operation based on the received air condition data.

The indoor unit 20 or the outdoor unit 10 may operate according to a control signal received from the controller 50 or the mobile terminal 200.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the units in the air conditioner system are connected wirelessly, there is an advantage that the installation cost and installation time can be greatly reduced as compared to the case in which the units are connected by wire.

In addition, for information confirmation and control of any one unit, it is possible to directly communicate with the control target unit without going through a specific unit such as the controller 50, there is an advantage in terms of communication time, ease of use.

Units included in an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a wireless communication module 120 for performing wireless communication with each other using a frequency band of a sub-giga band. In addition, the wireless communication module 120 may include an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation scheme that includes a PCB antenna that is easy to manage radiation patterns and is advantageous for securing gain, and has low inter-channel interference in multiple channels. have.

Accordingly, the outdoor unit is installed in the basement of the building or on the roof, and the units are distributedly arranged so that obstacles such as floors and walls exist between the units, even in a typical air conditioner system installation environment. This can be done smoothly.

On the other hand, depending on a high-rise building, a large area of building, or other installation environment, a wireless communication shaded area may occur where wireless communication is not performed smoothly. In this case, it may be necessary to install a repeater capable of retransmitting the received radio signal to eliminate the wireless communication shadow area.

Meanwhile, the structure may be added or changed in the building in which the air conditioner system is installed. The wireless communication environment may also change according to the addition and modification of the structure. Accordingly, although the wireless communication performance is good at the time of installation, the wireless communication performance can be significantly reduced without any special failure during use.

Therefore, a method for determining whether a repeater is required in a wireless communication environment and efficiently installing a repeater is required.

As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of units, and a plurality of units may correspond to an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, a mobile terminal, or the like. have.

10 is a diagram referred to for describing a mobile terminal and a wireless communication module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

When the mobile terminal 200 communicates with each unit 100 in the air conditioner system in a sub-giga band, the mobile terminal 200 may use a wireless communication module 300 that supports radio communication in the sub-giga band.

Since all general-purpose mobile terminals 200 are equipped with a wireless communication module 300 supporting sub-giga band wireless communication, there is a practical difficulty. As shown in FIG. 10 (a), a dedicated wireless communication module ( 300 is preferably used in connection.

In this case, the wireless communication module 300 may be connected through the interface unit 270 of the mobile terminal 200. For example, the mobile terminal 200 and the wireless communication module 300 may be connected through the OTG-USB cable 301.

Accordingly, the mobile terminal 200 may transmit and receive signals with units such as outdoor units and indoor units in the air conditioner system through the wireless communication module 300.

The mobile terminal 200 may receive a communication performance test result from an outdoor unit or indoor units, and display a screen including the communication performance test result.

In addition, the operator may directly perform a communication performance test with a specific unit by using the mobile terminal 200 connected to the wireless communication module 300, and display a screen including the communication performance test result.

On the other hand, since the wireless communication module 300 includes substantially the same hardware configuration as the wireless repeater, it can be set as a repeater through software setting.

The operator may check the communication performance test result and, if necessary, separate the wireless communication module 300 from the mobile terminal 200 and set it as a repeater as shown in FIG.

In this case, the wireless communication module 300 may be used in connection with a power cable 302 for receiving power from a commercial power source.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the air conditioner system for performing sub GHz wireless communication, the communication signal sensitivity of each unit of communication through the mobile terminal 200 and the wireless communication module 300 is measured. It can be measured.

In addition, by testing the communication performance between the unit through the mobile terminal 200 and the wireless communication module 300, when a wireless relay (relay) is required, the wireless communication module 300 on the spot, simply by switching to a repeater It is available.

Accordingly, the wireless communication performance of the current air conditioner system can be easily and quickly confirmed. For example, a user such as an operator wants to check the communication performance (success rate) for each unit wireless communication section by visual indicators when a large number of units are connected wirelessly to a building such as a building or an apartment. When you want to check the cause of the problem when a communication error occurs, when you need a wireless repeater according to the conditions, you can immediately test the communication performance and confirm the result.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, when visually confirming a communication reception sensitivity between units included in the same group using the same wireless communication channel or trying to check the degree of interference between units using another or the same wireless channel As a result, you can test communication performance and verify the results.

If a wireless repeater is needed according to the situation, the wireless communication module 300 may be converted into a repeater and used.

Accordingly, as soon as the communication performance is confirmed, the wireless communication shadow area can be effectively and quickly removed, and a separate repeater installation work cost and time can be reduced.

11 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 12 to 14 are views for explaining the configuration and operation of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Reference is made to the drawing.

Referring to FIG. 11, the outdoor unit 10a and the plurality of indoor units 20a... 20n connected to the refrigerant pipe may be set to a predetermined group. The predetermined group may include one indoor unit 10a and N indoor units from indoor unit 1 (20a) to indoor unit (N) 20n.

As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, the outdoor unit 10a and the plurality of indoor units 20a... 20n included in the predetermined group are wireless using a frequency of a sub GHz band. Can communicate.

In addition, the outdoor unit 10a and the plurality of indoor units 20a... 20n included in the predetermined group may wirelessly communicate with the mobile terminal 200 using a frequency in a sub GHz band. .

Referring to FIG. 11, the mobile terminal 200 may transmit a signal for requesting a communication performance test to the outdoor unit 10a included in a predetermined group through the wireless communication module 300 (S1110).

Correspondingly, the outdoor unit 10a may perform a communication performance test with a plurality of indoor units 20a ... 20n included in the same group.

The outdoor unit 10a may broadcast a plurality of communication performance test signals at predetermined time intervals (S1130).

For example, the outdoor unit 10a may broadcast 100 first to 100th test signals sequentially at predetermined time intervals.

That is, the outdoor unit 10a may output a plurality of test signals in a broadcast manner.

The broadcast method may be a method of transmitting data without specifying a reception target. The outdoor unit 10a can save energy, operation, and time required for setting the reception target of the data by transmitting the air state data to the specific communication network without specifying the reception target.

For example, if the outdoor unit 10a transmits 100 communication performance test signals to N indoor units 20a ... 20n, using the unicast method, N * 100 = 100N conference signals are required.

However, when the outdoor unit 10a transmits 100 communication performance test signals to the N indoor units 20a ... 20n, only 100 times of signal transmission is necessary if the broadcast method is used.

The plurality of indoor units 20a ... 20n that have received the first to the 100th test signals may respectively respond to the outdoor unit a signal including the communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals (S1140). .

For example, each indoor unit 20a ... 20n does not transmit a response signal each time a communication performance test signal is received, but receives all of a predetermined number of times, for example, 100 communication performance test signals. Later, the test results can be synthesized and transmitted with the test results in one response signal.

Accordingly, the transmission of the response signal can be reduced from 100 times to one time.

In addition, since the outdoor unit 10a needs to receive signals only as many as the indoor units 20a ... 20n, the communication load can be greatly reduced.

The communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals may include a communication success rate and reception sensitivity for the plurality of test signals.

Meanwhile, the communication success rate may be evaluated by the number of communication successes compared to the number of preset test signals. For example, when 100 is set as the number of test signals, when 90 test signals are received in a predetermined indoor unit, the communication success rate may be 90%.

Also, since the reception sensitivity may be an intensity value of a signal received at each indoor unit, and a plurality of test signals are received, an average value of the intensity values of the received signals may be used in the test result.

On the other hand, if the communication performance test result has a value that is less than the reference value for the communication success rate and the reception sensitivity, it can be determined that the repeater does not meet the preset criteria, and is necessary.

In addition, if the communication performance test result has a value equal to or greater than a reference value for the communication success rate and the reception sensitivity, it is possible to determine that the preset criterion is satisfied and that a repeater is not necessary.

According to an embodiment, the outdoor unit 10a may transmit a signal indicating the start of a communication performance test to a plurality of indoor units 20a ... 20n included in the predetermined group (S1120).

Accordingly, the plurality of indoor units 20a ... 20n may prepare for the communication performance test and respond to the test results corresponding to all the test signals after completion of the predetermined number of times of the reception of the test signal.

In addition, the outdoor unit 10a may also reduce the number of signal transmissions by broadcasting a signal indicating the start of the communication performance test.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit 10a may transmit a signal including the communication performance test results received from the plurality of indoor units 20a ... 20n to the mobile terminal 200 (S1150). The mobile terminal 200 may receive a signal including a communication performance test result transmitted by the outdoor unit 10a through the wireless communication module 300.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 200 may display a screen including the communication performance test result received from the outdoor unit 10a (S1160).

The operator can determine that if the displayed communication performance test result has a value equal to or greater than the reference values for the communication success rate and the reception sensitivity, the preset criteria are satisfied and the repeater is not necessary.

Further, if the displayed communication performance test result has a value that is less than the reference values for the communication success rate and the reception sensitivity, the operator may determine that the repeater does not satisfy the preset criterion and is necessary.

12 illustrates a screen including a communication performance test result displayed by a predetermined mobile terminal 200a.

The mobile terminal 200 may provide a user interface screen related to the air conditioner system through the display unit 251.

Referring to FIG. 12, a screen including a communication performance test result may include a unit item 1210, test result items 1221, 1222, 1223, and 1224, a repeater setting item 1240, and the like.

The unit item 1210 may include device information and MAC address information of a unit designated as a reference of the communication performance test. In addition, the unit item 1210 may include group identification information when a specific group is selected.

According to an embodiment, the unit item 1210 may display detailed information related to the selected item, a command execution result, and the like.

The test result items 1221, 1222, 1223, and 1224 correspond to test results for a plurality of units, and the repeater setting item 1240 is an item for setting the wireless communication module 300 as a repeater.

Each test result item 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224 may include a character and / or graphic object 1221a, 1222a, 1223a, 1224a indicating a communication success rate of the corresponding unit.

In addition, each test result item 1221, 1222, 1223, and 1224 may include a text and / or graphic object 1221b 1222b, 1223b, and 1224b indicating a reception sensitivity of the corresponding unit.

For example, if the number of successful communication is 99% or more, Green, 95% or more, Yellow, and 95% or less, Red will provide an intuitive user experience with graphic objects similar to traffic lights. Can be.

In addition, when the received signal strength is -85dBm or more, Green, -95dBm or more, Yellow, and -95dBm or less, Red is a graphic object similar to a traffic light to provide an intuitive user experience. .

Meanwhile, whether a repeater is required may be determined by whether the communication performance test result satisfies a predetermined criterion.

For example, a communication success rate of 99% or more and a reception sensitivity of -85 dbm or more may be set as a repeater setting criterion.

Referring to FIG. 12, if any one of the communication success rate and the reception sensitivity is not turned on, it may be determined that a repeater is required. Therefore, the operator can quickly and intuitively determine whether the repeater is necessary without checking the specific value.

In some embodiments, the screen including the communication performance test result may further include a scan item 1230. When the scan item 1230 is selected, the user can easily identify a unit close to the current location by scanning and displaying a unit existing within a predetermined distance from the mobile terminal 200.

Referring to FIG. 12, since the test result item 1224 corresponding to the fourth indoor unit IDU4 does not satisfy a predetermined criterion, it may be determined that a repeater is required.

Accordingly, the worker may set the wireless communication module 300 as a repeater (S1170). Therefore, if it is determined that a repeater is required, the wireless communication module 300 may be set as a repeater for retransmitting a wireless signal received from the outdoor unit 10a (S1170). Accordingly, as soon as the communication performance is confirmed, the wireless communication shadow area can be effectively and quickly removed, and a separate repeater installation work cost and time can be reduced.

Alternatively, according to an embodiment, the individual communication performance test may be performed based on the wireless communication module 300 without setting the wireless communication module 300 directly as a repeater, and after confirming the result, the wireless communication module 300 may be set as a repeater. have.

Accordingly, when a repeater is installed at a specific location, wireless communication performance can be immediately confirmed, and after finding an optimal position, the portable wireless communication module 300 can be set as a repeater.

Meanwhile, the individual communication performance test may be performed between the outdoor unit 10a, the mobile terminal 200, and a specific indoor unit.

For example, the mobile terminal 200 transmits a signal indicating the start of the individual communication performance test to any one of the indoor units 20a ... 20n and the outdoor unit 10a of the plurality of indoor units 20a. The performance test signal may be transmitted to any one indoor unit and the outdoor unit 10a at predetermined time intervals.

In addition, the one indoor unit and the outdoor unit 10a may respectively respond to the mobile terminal a signal including individual communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals, and the mobile terminal 200 The screen including the individual communication performance test result may be displayed.

After checking the result of the individual communication performance test, the operator may set the wireless communication module 300 as a repeater for retransmitting the wireless signal received from the outdoor unit 10a when the preset criteria are satisfied, and install it at the corresponding position. .

13 illustrates an example of performing a communication performance test based on an outdoor unit.

Referring to FIG. 13, the mobile terminal 200 may request a communication performance test from the outdoor unit 10a of the first group through the wireless communication module 300 (S1310).

The outdoor unit 10a may transmit a communication performance test signal 100 times to the indoor units 20a, 20b, and 20c corresponding to the first group (S1320).

Preferably, the outdoor unit 10a can reduce the number of signal transmissions by outputting the communication performance test signal in a broadcast manner.

In addition, by using the broadcast method, it is possible to save time rather than checking the communication performance of each unit by unicast, and test each unit under the same test conditions (test jammers, etc.) and confirm the result. Can be.

The first indoor unit 20a may transmit a signal including a communication performance test result corresponding to 100 communication performance test signals to the outdoor unit 10a (S1331).

In addition, the second indoor unit 20b may transmit a signal including a communication performance test result corresponding to 100 communication performance test signals to the outdoor unit 10a (S1332).

In addition, the third indoor unit 20c may transmit a signal including a communication performance test result corresponding to 100 communication performance test signals to the outdoor unit 10a (S1333).

The communication performance test result may include a communication success rate of each indoor unit and an average value of received signal strengths.

Meanwhile, the communication performance test result collected by the outdoor unit 10a may be transmitted to the mobile terminal 200 (S1340).

In addition, the mobile terminal may display a user interface screen including the received communication performance test result.

The operator may check the communication performance test result and, if necessary, detach the wireless communication module 300 from the mobile terminal 200 and set it as a repeater.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, if the wireless communication module 300 performs the self-communication performance test with the wireless communication module 300 in a section where the wireless communication between the unit is not well, and it is confirmed that the communication performance between the peripheral units is improved, wireless communication The module 300 may be set and used as a repeater.

14 shows an example of performing an individual communication performance test.

According to an embodiment, the individual communication performance test may be performed to select the repeater installation position after the communication performance test based on the outdoor unit.

Or, depending on the embodiment, individual communication performance tests may be performed independently, depending on the needs of the operator. For example, when a wireless signal sensitivity of a specific indoor unit is inferior or a communication error occurs, individual communication performance tests may be performed.

Referring to FIG. 14, the mobile terminal 200 may include one or more indoor units 10a of the first group and indoor units 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the first group through the wireless communication module 300. A signal can be sent to 20c) to indicate the start of an individual communication performance test.

For example, when the operator wants to check the communication performance of the third indoor unit 20c and whether the repeater is necessary, the operator performs individual communication performance tests between the mobile terminal 200, the outdoor unit 10a, and the third indoor unit 20c. You can start

The mobile terminal 200 may transmit a predetermined number of communication performance test signals to the third indoor unit 20c and the outdoor unit 10a (S1410 and S1420).

The mobile terminal 200 may transmit the plurality of communication performance test signals to the third indoor unit 20c and the outdoor unit 10a at predetermined time intervals.

The third indoor unit 20c and the outdoor unit 10a may respectively respond to the mobile terminal 200 with a signal including individual communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals (S1415 and S1425). .

The individual communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals may include a communication success rate and reception sensitivity for the plurality of test signals.

For example, the mobile terminal 200 may transmit a test signal 100 times to the third indoor unit 20c (S1410) and receive a test result for the test signal 100 times (S1415).

In addition, the mobile terminal 200 may transmit a test signal 100 times to the outdoor unit 10a (S1420), and receive a test result with respect to the 100 test signals (S1425).

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 200 may display a screen including individual communication performance test results received from the outdoor unit 10a and the third indoor unit 20c.

The operator may check an individual communication performance test result and, if necessary, set the wireless communication module 300 as a repeater for retransmitting a wireless signal received from the outdoor unit 10a.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the air conditioner system for performing sub GHz wireless communication, the communication signal sensitivity of each unit of communication through the mobile terminal 200 and the wireless communication module 300 is measured. It can be measured.

In addition, by testing the communication performance between the unit through the mobile terminal 200 and the wireless communication module 300, when a wireless relay (relay) is required, the wireless communication module 300 on the spot, simply by switching to a repeater It is available.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to implement a high quality wireless communication environment.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to determine whether the repeater is necessary, and to efficiently install the repeater if necessary.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner system and a control method thereof in which each unit can directly wirelessly communicate with each other regardless of an installation environment.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the units can be monitored and controlled in a wireless communication environment.

The electronic device (unit), the wireless communication module, the remote control device and the air conditioner system according to the present invention are not limited to the configuration and method of the embodiments described as described above, but the embodiments are variously modified. All or some of the embodiments may be selectively combined in order to accomplish this.

On the other hand, the control method of an electronic device (unit), a wireless communication module, a remote control device and an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, it is embodied as code that can be read by the processor on a recording medium that can be read by the processor. It is possible. The processor-readable recording medium includes all kinds of recording devices that store data that can be read by the processor. Examples of the processor-readable recording medium include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, and the like, and may also be implemented in the form of a carrier wave such as transmission over the Internet. . The processor-readable recording medium can also be distributed over network coupled computer systems so that the processor-readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

In addition, while the above has been shown and described with respect to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, the technical field to which the invention belongs without departing from the spirit of the invention claimed in the claims. Of course, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art, and these modifications should not be individually understood from the technical spirit or the prospect of the present invention.

10: outdoor unit
20: indoor unit
50: controller
100: electronic device (unit)
120, 300: wireless communication module
200: mobile terminal

Claims (13)

Transmitting, by the mobile terminal, a signal for requesting a communication performance test to an outdoor unit included in a predetermined group through a wireless communication module;
Transmitting, by the outdoor unit, a signal indicating start of a communication performance test to a plurality of indoor units included in the predetermined group;
Broadcasting, by the outdoor unit, a plurality of communication performance test signals at predetermined time intervals;
Responding, by the indoor units, a signal including communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals to the outdoor unit, respectively;
Transmitting, by the outdoor unit, a signal including communication performance test results received from the plurality of indoor units to the mobile terminal;
Displaying, by the mobile terminal, a screen including a communication performance test result received from the outdoor unit;
Identifying, by the mobile terminal, at least one indoor unit that does not satisfy a predetermined criterion of the communication performance test result among the plurality of indoor units based on the communication performance test result received from the outdoor unit;
Setting, by the mobile terminal, a repeater for at least one indoor unit that does not satisfy the preset criteria; And
And transmitting, by the mobile terminal, the signal received from the outdoor unit to at least one indoor unit that does not satisfy the preset criterion. The method of claim 1,
And a communication performance test result for the plurality of communication performance test signals includes a communication success rate and a reception sensitivity for the plurality of test signals. The method of claim 1,
The transmitting of the signal indicating the start of the communication performance test to the plurality of indoor units included in the predetermined group by the outdoor unit controls the air conditioner system, wherein the signal indicating the start of the communication performance test is broadcast. Way. delete The method of claim 1,
And transmitting, by the mobile terminal, a signal indicating the start of individual communication performance test to any one indoor unit or outdoor unit of at least one indoor unit that does not satisfy the preset criteria. . The method of claim 5,
Transmitting, by the mobile terminal, a plurality of communication performance test signals to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit at predetermined time intervals;
And responding to each of the one indoor unit and the outdoor unit, a signal including individual communication performance test results of the plurality of communication performance test signals, respectively, to the mobile terminal. The method of claim 6,
And displaying, by the mobile terminal, a screen including the result of the individual communication performance test. The method of claim 7, wherein
The step of setting to the repeater,
And wherein the mobile terminal is set as a repeater for at least one indoor unit that does not satisfy a predetermined criterion of the individual communication performance test result among any one indoor unit based on the individual communication performance test result. How to control the harmonizer system. The method of claim 1,
The mobile terminal, the outdoor unit, and the plurality of indoor units wirelessly communicate using a frequency in a sub GHz band. Transmitting, by the mobile terminal, a signal for notifying the start of the individual communication performance test to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit included in the predetermined group through the wireless communication module;
Transmitting, by the mobile terminal, a plurality of communication performance test signals to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit at predetermined time intervals;
Responding, by the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, a signal including individual communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals to the mobile terminal, respectively;
Displaying, by the mobile terminal, a screen including the individual communication performance test result;
Confirming, by the mobile terminal, whether the indoor unit satisfies a predetermined criterion of the individual communication performance test result based on the individual communication performance test result;
Setting the mobile terminal as a repeater for the indoor unit when the indoor unit does not satisfy a predetermined criterion of the individual communication performance test result; And
And transmitting, by the mobile terminal, the signal received from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit that does not satisfy the preset criterion. delete The method of claim 10,
The individual communication performance test results for the plurality of communication performance test signals include a communication success rate and reception sensitivity for the plurality of test signals. The method of claim 10,
The mobile terminal, the outdoor unit, and the plurality of indoor units wirelessly communicate using a frequency in a sub GHz band.

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