KR102108356B1 - Air-conditioner and Method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof, the main body for discharging heat-exchanged air; When the front panel is opened, a bucket disposed toward the front and exposed to the outside; A humidifying module for converting water input into the water tank into fine particles to generate humidified air; and the humidifying module sets a usage time for water in the water tank, and when the usage time has elapsed, It is configured to automatically drain the water, so it is easy to check the location of the water tank, and water can be easily supplied to the water tank, greatly improving convenience. In addition, the present invention counts the usage time of the water, so that the water used for a certain period of time or more is automatically drained, thereby preventing the bacteria from propagating because the water in the bucket is used for a long time or left unattended, and the present invention cleans the water in the bucket. As it is maintained, it is possible to provide clean humidified air.

Description

Air conditioner and its control method {Air-conditioner and Method thereof}

The present invention relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof, and to an air conditioner having a humidification function and a control method thereof.

The air conditioner is installed to provide a more comfortable indoor environment to human beings by discharging cold and warm air into the room to create a comfortable indoor environment, adjusting the indoor temperature, and purifying the indoor air. In general, an air conditioner includes an indoor unit installed inside a heat exchanger, and an outdoor unit configured with a compressor and a heat exchanger to supply 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 a 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 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 and hot air into the room through heat exchange using a refrigerant.

The air conditioner has a humidifying function and an air cleaning function, and is not limited to use in a specific season, but the function is expanded to be used in all seasons.

As the air conditioner is equipped with a humidifying function, it is possible to adjust the indoor humidity by sensing the humidity in the room and discharging the humidified air.

However, the air conditioner is in a state in which water remains in the water tank provided for humidifying the air, and when left for a long time, a problem occurs that bacteria or fungi propagate by water in the water tank.

In addition, even if the humidification function is frequently used, even when used for a certain period of time without replacing water, the same problem may occur with bacteria and fungi, and particularly humidified air is also contaminated.

Accordingly, we are trying to find a way to remove the residual water in the bucket.

According to Korean Patent Registration No. 10-0984302, a method for treating residual water in a refrigerator is proposed. However, this problem cannot be solved with a different configuration from the residual water treatment of the water tank by controlling the flow of water to be supplied, not using a water tank.

In addition, Korean Patent Publication No. 1995-0016043 relates to a residual water processor for a storage tank, and proposes a method to detect the residual water and transmit it to a pump to make the tank vacuum and drain it. However, there is a problem that the water tank is only available in a vacuum tank in which vacuum is possible and cannot be applied to a general water tank.

An object of the present invention relates to an air conditioner and a method for controlling the air conditioner and a control method for treating the residual amount of a water tank provided to provide humidified air.

The air conditioner according to the present invention is a main body for discharging heat-exchanged air, a front panel forming a front surface of the main body, and when the front panel is opened, a water container disposed toward the front surface is exposed to the outside and water introduced into the water container And a humidifying module that converts into fine particles to generate humidified air, and the humidifying module sets a usage time for the water in the bucket and automatically drains the water in the bucket when the usage time has elapsed. Is done.

The humidification module, the water level sensor for detecting the water level of the water tank, a drainage pump connected to a drain hose to set the use time corresponding to the water level detected by the water level sensor, and the use time has elapsed If it does, it includes a humidification module control unit for operating the drain pump.

The humidification module control unit determines the completion of drainage according to the water level of the water tank sensed by the water level sensor, and when draining is completed, a notification of no water is output. When the drainage is completed, the humidifying module control unit initializes the use time.

The humidification module further includes a steam unit connected to the water tank and a connecting hose to receive water from the water tank to generate humidified air, and a valve installed on the connection hose to regulate water supply to the steam unit, The humidification module control unit controls the valve while the steam unit is operating so that water in the water tank is supplied to the steam unit.

In addition, the control method of the air conditioner according to the present invention, when a water tank is mounted, detecting the water level of the water tank, setting a usage time of water in response to the water level, and fine particles of water introduced into the water tank Generating a humidified air by converting to and counting the time that water remains in the bucket, and when the usage time is reached, automatically draining the water in the bucket.

The draining step further includes opening a valve installed in a connection hose connecting the water tank and the steam bucket and operating a drain pump so that water in the water bucket is drained through the steam bucket.

The draining step further includes outputting a drainage notification, when it is sensed that the water level in the bucket is an air level, determining that drainage is completed, and outputting a notification about no water.

The air conditioner according to the present invention and the control method according to the present invention, configured as described above, count the usage time based on the water supply time of the water with respect to the water in the bucket provided for discharging the humidified air, and have been used for a certain time or more. By allowing the water to drain automatically, the water in the bucket is used or left for a long time to prevent germs from propagating. In addition, the present invention can provide clean humidified air as the water in the bucket is kept clean.

In addition, according to the present invention, when the front panel of the main body is opened, the water tank is exposed, so that the user can easily check the position of the water tank, and even if the water tank is located on the front or the back, the user does not have an uncomfortable posture. Since water can be easily supplied to the bucket, there is an effect of greatly improving convenience.

1 is a view showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which the front panel of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is opened.
FIG. 3 is a view showing a water bottle of the humidifying module of the air conditioner of FIG. 1.
4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a processor for controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a block diagram briefly showing the configuration of a humidifying module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a diagram briefly showing a humidifying module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a view referred to for explaining the arrangement of the humidifying module in the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for residual water treatment of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a flowchart illustrating a water tank management method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Advantages and features of the present invention, and methods for achieving them will be clarified with reference to embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms, and only the embodiments allow the disclosure of the present invention to be complete, and common knowledge in the art to which the present invention pertains It is provided to completely inform the person having the scope of the invention, and the present invention is only defined by the scope of the claims. The same reference numerals refer to the same components throughout the specification. In addition, the control unit, each module and each unit of the present invention may be implemented with one or more processors, and may be implemented with hardware devices.

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

1 is a view showing the configuration of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which the front panel of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is opened.

1 and 2, the air conditioner, the main body 10 of the indoor unit 1 is provided indoors, and is connected to an outdoor unit (not shown) through a refrigerant pipe (not shown).

The indoor unit (1) is formed with a discharge port (9) on the front side, and air is sucked through a suction port (not shown) from the inside, and then discharged through the discharge port (9).

The indoor unit may be formed with a suction port (not shown) on the rear surface of the main body 10. Further, the intake port may be additionally installed on the side of the cabinet 12. The inlet is formed to open in the left-right direction or open in the left-front direction.

A filter unit (not shown) is provided to filter out foreign substances such as dust contained in the intake air. In addition, the main body 10 is provided with a cleaning module 400 for cleaning the filter unit.

The discharge port 9 is opened and closed by the circulator door 13.

A circulator 15 is provided inside the discharge port 9. The circulator 15 sucks air through the suction port and generates a blowing force so that air is discharged through the discharge port. The circulator 15 is installed inside the main body 10 to discharge air through the discharge port. In some cases, an auxiliary fan (not shown) for assisting the blowing force may be further installed inside the main body 10. In addition, an auxiliary discharge port (not shown) may be further installed on the side surface of the cabinet 12.

The main body 10 includes a base (not shown), a cabinet 12, and a front panel 11. The front panel 11 forms the exterior of the front portion of the main body 10, and the cabinet 12 is installed to be positioned above the base.

A proximity sensor 17 is installed on the base. The proximity sensor 17 detects a user approaching the main body 10 and inputs an access signal. Accordingly, when a proximity signal is input, the display module 292 may be activated to display operation information, and at least one light provided in the main body 10 may operate.

The front panel 11 is provided with a display module 292, and a circulator door 13 is installed. The front panel 11 is provided with a vision module 210 including at least one image acquisition unit on the upper portion. In addition, the front panel 11 may be provided with a proximity sensor (not shown), an audio input unit (not shown), and an audio output unit (not shown).

The display module 292 displays operation status and setting information, and the touch pad is layered to receive user commands. The display module 292 may further include lighting. The front panel 11 may be provided with an operation unit (not shown) composed of at least one input means of a switch, a button, or a touch pad. In addition, the display module may be configured as a touch screen layered with a touch pad.

In addition, a proximity sensor (not shown) and a remote control receiver (not shown) may be provided on one side of the display module 292.

The circulator door 13 opens and closes the discharge port 9. The circulator door 13 is opened when the main body is operated so that the circulator 15 is exposed to the outside. The circulator door 13 allows air to be discharged to the discharge port as it is opened, and is closed when the operation is completed to close the discharge port. A space in which the circulator door 13 is accommodated is provided at the inside or rear of the front panel 11 when the discharge port is opened.

The circulator door 13 is configured to move backwards to the inside of the main body, and then moves upward or downward to open.

When the circulator door 13 is opened, the circulator 15 moves forward to the front panel 11 to discharge air, and when the operation ends, the circulator 15 moves backward to the inside of the main body, and the circulator The suction port can be closed by the movement of the door 13.

The front panel 11 slides left or right to move.

The front panel 11 is mounted by sliding means formed on the upper panel or the lower panel of the cabinet 12 to move left and right. A part of the inner panel 141 of the main body is exposed to the outside by the movement of the front panel 11.

The inner panel 141 is provided with a circulator 15, and a moving means (not shown) for moving the circulator is installed.

The inner panel 141 is provided with a water bottle 329 of the humidifying module at the bottom. The water bottle 329 is exposed to the outside as the front panel 11 moves in the left or right direction and opens. The water bottle 329 supplies water to the humidifying module.

The main body 10 includes a heat exchanger (not shown) that heats the sucked air with the refrigerant therein.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a water bottle of the humidifying module of the air conditioner of FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the water bottle 329 of the humidifying module is disposed toward the front, and is exposed to the outside as the front panel 11 is moved left or right and opened.

A rotating shaft is formed at the bottom of the water bottle 329 and is connected to the cabinet 12. The upper portion of the water container is moved to be inclined toward the front and protruded based on the rotation axis of the lower portion so that the inlet 19 is opened.

The water bottle 329 is tilted to the front so that the upper part forms a predetermined angle θ with the inner panel 141.

In addition, the water bottle 329 may be separated from the body 10.

A water tank detecting unit (not shown) for detecting whether the water tank 329 is mounted may be provided inside the main body 10. The water bottle detection unit may include a sensor for detecting whether the water tank is mounted, and a sensor for detecting whether the input portion of the water tank is introduced into the inside of the cabinet based on the rotation axis. The cabinet 12 may further include a separate fixing part for fixing the water container when the water container is drawn inward.

The water bottle 329 may move as the handle (not shown) is pulled toward the front, so that the inlet 19 can be opened.

The water bottle 329 is tilted at a predetermined angle as the inner fixing part (not shown) is released by a pressing operation, so that the inlet 19 can be opened as the upper portion of the water bottle moves to the front.

When the user's approach is detected by the proximity sensor 17, the water bottle 329 is automatically moved according to the proximity signal, so that the inlet 19 can be opened.

In addition, as the front panel 11 slides and opens, the water bottle 329 is automatically moved so that the inlet 19 can be opened.

A part of the inner panel 141 or the water tank 329 may be provided with a water level display unit (not shown) for displaying the water level of the water tank.

In addition, the water bottle 329 may be configured to check the amount of water inside.

For example, the water bottle 329 may be formed of a transparent material. Any part of the front surface of the water container may be formed of a transparent material. In addition, the entire water tank 329 may be formed of a transparent material.

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

As shown in FIG. 4, the air conditioner includes a sensor unit 215, a power supply unit 299, a driving unit 280, an operation unit 230, a display module 292, a memory 256, a communication unit 270, and audio output It includes a unit 291, an audio input unit 220, a vision module 210, a cleaning module 400, a humidification module 300, and a control unit 240 for controlling overall operation.

The power supply 299 supplies operating power to the main body 10. The power supply unit 299 rectifies and smooths the commercial power to be connected, and generates and supplies the voltage required by each unit. The power supply unit 299 prevents an inrush current and generates a constant voltage. Further, the power supply unit 299 may supply operating power to an outdoor unit (not shown).

The driving unit 280 provides driving force for the circulator 15 to rotate. In addition, the driving unit 280 provides power to the moving means (not shown) so that the circulator 15 can move. In addition, the driving unit 280 controls opening and closing of the valve installed therein. In some cases, the driving unit 280 may provide a driving force so that the front panel 11 slides to the left or right. The driving unit 280 may be divided into a circulator driving unit, a moving unit driving unit, a valve driving unit, and a front panel driving unit.

The manipulation unit 230 includes at least one of a button, a switch, and a touch input means, and inputs a user command or predetermined data into the indoor unit.

The display module 292 is composed of display means such as LCD, LED, and OLED, and may include a touch screen layered with a touch pad. The display module 292 displays the operation setting or operation information of the indoor unit in a combination of at least one of letters, images, special characters, symbols, emoticons, and icons. In addition, the display module 292 may further include a lighting unit that outputs an operating state according to whether it is lit, lit color, or blinking.

The audio output unit 291 outputs voice guidance, predetermined warning sounds, and effect sounds. The audio output unit 291 includes a buzzer or speaker. The audio input unit 220 receives and recognizes a user's voice, and inputs a command for it to the control unit 240. The audio input unit 220 includes at least one microphone.

The memory 256 includes control data for controlling the operation of the indoor unit, data for the operation mode, data sensed by the sensor unit 215, data transmitted and received through the communication unit, data input by the operation unit, output data, operation Data for determining whether an abnormality is stored is stored. The memory 256 stores data that can be read by a microprocessor, and includes a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), a silicon disk drive (SDD), ROM, RAM, and CD-ROM. , Magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device.

The communication unit 270 includes at least one communication module to transmit and receive data in a wired or wireless communication method.

The communication unit 270 transmits and receives data to and from an outdoor unit (not shown), and receives data from a remote control (not shown). In addition, the communication unit 270 may be connected to a predetermined network to communicate with an external server or terminal. The communication unit 270 transmits and receives data including communication modules such as Wi-Fi and WiBro as well as short-range wireless communication such as Zigbee, Bluetooth, and infrared.

The sensor unit 215 inputs measured data including a plurality of sensors to the control unit 240. The sensor unit 215 includes a proximity sensor 17, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a humidity sensor, and includes a water bottle sensing unit.

The proximity sensor 17 detects a person or object approaching within a predetermined distance. The proximity sensor 17 may be installed on the lower portion of the main body 10 and the front portion of the base, and may also be installed adjacent to the display module 292. The proximity sensor inputs an access signal to the controller 240 when a predetermined object or person approaches within a predetermined distance.

A temperature sensor is installed in the intake port to measure the indoor temperature, and is installed inside the main body 10 to measure the heat exchange temperature, and is installed at one side of the discharge port to measure the temperature of the discharged air, and is installed in the refrigerant pipe to coolant. The temperature can be measured. The humidity sensor measures humidity against indoor air.

The vision module 210 photographs an indoor environment including at least one image acquisition unit and detects a user's location. In addition, the vision module can detect indoor intrusion according to the operation mode. The vision module 210 may be installed on the front panel 11 and, in some cases, may be installed on the upper panel of the cabinet.

The cleaning module 400 is installed in the filter unit to clean foreign matter in the filter unit. The cleaning module includes a cleaning robot (not shown). As the cleaning robot moves along the surface of the filter part, it sucks foreign matter from the filter part. In addition, the cleaning robot may sterilize the filter unit using a sterilization lamp while cleaning the filter unit. The cleaning module 400 may further include a position sensor that detects the position of the robot cleaner.

The humidification module 300 receives water from the water bottle 329, performs humidification to provide moisture, and discharges humidified air to the outside. The humidifying module 300 generates steam to humidify the air, and allows the humidified air to be discharged into the room through the discharge port together with the air-conditioned air.

The humidifying module 300 may be a vibrating type using a vibration, a heating type, or a spraying method for spraying water, and various other humidifying methods may be used.

The control unit 240 processes input / output data, stores data in a memory, and controls data to be transmitted and received through a communication unit. The control unit 240 sets the air conditioner to operate according to the setting input through the operation unit, and controls the driving unit 280 to transmit / receive data to and from the outdoor unit to discharge air of cold and hot air provided by the refrigerant from the outdoor unit into the room. .

The control unit 240 detects the occupants through the vision module 210 by discharging the humidified air by operating the humidifying module 300 in response to the set operation mode or data measured from the sensor unit 215, In addition, the cleaning module 400 is controlled so that the filter is cleaned.

The control unit 240 monitors the operation status of each module, and outputs the operation status through the display module 292 according to the applied data.

5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a processor for controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The control unit 240 may include one or more microprocessors.

The control unit 240 includes a main control unit 241, a vision module control unit 242, a power supply control unit 243, a lighting control unit 244, a display module control unit 245, a humidification module control unit 246, and a cleaning module according to functions. It includes a control unit 247.

Each control unit may be composed of one microprocessor, and may be installed in each module. For example, the vision module 210, the cleaning module 400, and the humidifying module may be controlled through one microprocessor. In addition, a microprocessor is installed in each module, a vision module control unit 242 is provided in the vision module 210, and a humidifying module control unit is provided in the humidifying module to control its operation.

The main control unit applies control commands to each control unit, and receives and processes data from each control unit. The main control unit and each control unit are connected in the form of a bus (BUS) to transmit and receive data.

6 is a block diagram briefly showing the configuration of a humidifying module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 6, the humidification module 300 includes a steam unit 320, a water level sensor 330, a water tank detection unit 340, a drain pump 350, a first valve 361, and a second valve ( 362), and a humidification module control unit 310, 246 for controlling the overall operation of the humidification module.

The steam unit 320 converts the water supplied from the water bottle 329 into fine particles to generate humidified air. The steam unit 320 may include a steam container (not shown) for humidification. In addition, a water level sensor and a temperature sensor may be further installed in the steam container.

The steam unit 320 is a heating type that generates steam by heating water, an ultrasonic type that generates humidified air by making water into fine particles through vibration using an ultrasonic vibrator, a combination type of heating type and ultrasonic type, and humidification by spraying water Any of the centrifugal spray to provide the air, or the filter evaporation method of evaporating water using a wet filter can be applied.

The water level sensor 330 detects the height of the water input to the water tank 329.

The water level sensor 330 detects the water level according to the amount of water in the water tank 329 and outputs a full water signal when the water in the water tank exceeds a certain amount, and outputs a water level signal when there is no water in the water tank.

The water level sensor 330 may measure the water level value by at least one electrode arranged vertically. When the water level sensor has water in the bucket, the water level can be measured as the resistance value is changed by the water.

In addition, the water level sensor 330 may sense the water level through the electrode through which a signal is input according to the water level using a plurality of electrodes having different lengths, and arrange a plurality of sensors in a row based on the vertical axis of one side of the water tank. The water level can be detected through the detected signal, the water level can be detected using a signal such as ultrasonic waves, and the magnet is placed in a lake installed in a water tank to change the position of the magnet according to the water level. Water level can be detected.

The water level sensor 330 detects the level of the water tank by mixing at least one or a plurality of methods.

The water bottle detecting unit 340 detects the installation state of the water bottle 329.

The water bottle detecting unit 340 detects that the water bottle 329 is protruded to the front and the inlet is opened or the water bottle is separated from the body. In response to the signal detected by the water bottle detection unit 340, the humidification module control unit 310 applies a signal to the control unit 240 through the display module 292 to output an error indicating that the water tank is not properly mounted. can do.

In response to the detection signal of the water bottle detecting unit 340, a water bottle icon or a water bottle image may be displayed on the display module 292, a lamp for a water bottle error may be turned on, or a guide message for inducing a water bottle installation may be output. have.

The drain pump 350 is installed in a drain hose connected to the steam cylinder of the steam unit 320 to discharge water from the steam bucket, which is a water tank for steam, to the outside. The drainage pump 350 starts an operation according to the control command of the humidification module control unit 310 and stops the operation when the drainage is completed.

When the drain pump 350 is operated, the water between the water tank 329 and the steam tank is drained as the valve is opened. In addition, when the water in the steam bucket is drained, water is supplied from the connected water bucket to the steam bucket, drained through a drain hose by a drain pump, and the water in the bucket 329 is drained.

The first valve 361 is installed in a connecting hose 391 connecting the water tank 329 and the steam tank. When the first valve 361 is opened, water from the water tank 329 is supplied to the steam tank. The first valve is a water supply valve for supplying water to the steam container.

The second valve 362 is installed in the drain hose 393 to prevent water from being drained from the steam bucket or to prevent water from flowing back from the drain hose to the steam bucket.

The first valve 361 and the second valve 362 operate according to a control command of the humidifying module control unit 310, and a valve driving unit for opening and closing the valve may be provided, respectively.

The humidification module control unit 310 controls to generate humidified air according to the control command of the control unit 240.

The humidification module control unit 310 detects whether the water tank is mounted through the water bottle detection unit 340.

The humidification module control unit 310 determines the amount of water in the water tank through the water level sensor 330. The humidification module control unit 310 outputs a notification indicating that there is no water so that water is supplied when there is no water in the water tank or below a certain level.

In addition, when the water level display unit (not shown) is provided on a part of the inner panel 141 or the water tank 329, the humidification module control unit 310 controls the water level detected by the water level sensor to be displayed on the water level display unit.

When the humidification module control unit 310 is installed after the water tank is opened or detached from the main body, it is determined that new water is supplied to the water tank, and sets the usage time for the water, and the water is supplied based on the time when the water was injected. The remaining time is counted.

In addition, when the water bottle is installed, the humidification module control unit 310 may compare the water level before and after the water bottle is installed to determine whether new water is input.

The humidification module control unit 310 controls the drainage pump 350 so that the water is drained when the water in the water tank remains for a predetermined time or longer. The humidification module control unit 310 allows the water to be drained when water in the water tank remains until a preset use time. The humidification module control unit 310 allows the second valve 362 to be opened, and then operates a drainage pump to drain water from the steam cylinder.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows a notification according to water drainage to be output through the display module, and upon completion of the drainage, a notification indicating that there is no water is output. In addition, the humidification module control unit 310 initializes the use time when the drainage is completed.

When water is normally supplied to the water tank, the humidification module control unit 310 controls the first valve to supply water to the steam tank, and controls the steam unit 320 to generate humidified air.

In addition, when the humidified module control unit 310 generates humidified air, the humidified air is discharged to the discharge port through the supply hose 392 connected to the discharge port of the steam cylinder. The supply hose is connected to the outlet or auxiliary vane and is configured so that humidified air is discharged indoors together with heat exchanged air. In addition, the supply hose can be connected to the flow path through which the heat-exchanged air flows, and is discharged together with the air-conditioning through the discharge port.

The humidifying module control unit 310 controls the second valve 362 when water is supplied to the steam container to prevent water from being drained at the same time, and prevents water from flowing backward from the drain hose.

The humidification module control unit 310 controls the steam unit to stop operation according to the water level of the water tank, and outputs a notification about no water.

The humidification module control unit 310 generates a predetermined signal so as to output a notification about the installation of the water tank, drainage, and no water, and transmits it to the display module, and accordingly, notification is performed in at least one of an icon, image, notification message, and lamp lighting. Can be output.

In addition, the humidification module control unit 310 generates a predetermined signal to output a notification about the installation of water tanks, drainage, and no water to the control unit, and the control unit controls the display module 292 to output a notification corresponding to the signal. can do.

7 is a diagram briefly showing a humidifying module of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, a water bottle detecting unit 340 and a water level sensor 330 are installed in the water bottle 329.

As described above, when the front panel 11 is opened, the water bottle 329 may protrude forward and be opened, and may also be separated from the main body. When the water bottle 329 is mounted and is inserted and fixed into the cabinet 12 of the main body 10, the water bottle detecting unit 340 applies a signal according to the normal installation of the water bottle to the humidifying module control unit 310.

The water tank detecting unit 340 may be installed as a sensor for detecting whether the lower end of the water tank is mounted on the main body, and a sensor for detecting whether the upper end of the water tank is inserted into and fixed in the cabinet. It is possible to detect whether the water tank is mounted through any one of a plurality of sensors.

In addition, the water bottle detection unit 340 may be installed in the cabinet. The water bottle detection unit 340 may detect the presence or absence of a water bottle when the water bottle is inserted into the body.

At least one water level sensor 330 is installed to detect the water level in the bucket. A plurality of water level sensors (331 to 335) may be arranged vertically, or may be installed at the lower end of the water tank and the upper end of the water tank, respectively, to detect the air level and the full water level. In addition, the water level sensor 330 is installed in the vertical direction at the upper end of the water tank to detect the level according to the water level.

It is noted that the water level sensor disclosed in the drawings is only an example, and the installation position of the sensor and the number of sensors are not limited to the drawings.

The water container 329 and the steam container 321 are connected by a connecting hose 391. A first valve 361 is installed in the connecting hose 391.

When water is injected into the water bottle 329, the humidifying module control unit 310 sets a usage time for the injected water. The humidification module control unit 310 sets the use time according to the water level detected by the water level sensor. For example, the humidification module control unit 310 may set the use time of 3 to 5 days according to the water level when the water in the water tank 329 is greater than or equal to the water level, and 1 day when the water level is below the low water level. The level of the water level sensed by the water level sensor may be set in plural, and the level detected according to the type or number of sensors installed may be variable.

The humidification module control unit 310 counts the elapsed time based on the time when water is added.

When the humidification mode is set, the steam unit 320 operates according to the control command of the humidification module control unit 310, and when the humidification mode is set, the first valve is opened. When the first valve 361 is opened, water in the water bottle 329 is supplied to the steam bottle 321.

The steam unit 320 operates by a steam generator (not shown) installed inside the steam container 321 to generate humidified air from the water in the steam container 321. The humidified air is supplied to the discharge port and discharged together with the heat exchanged air.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows the humidified air to be supplied to the discharge port 9 when the humidified air is generated by the operation of the steam unit 320. The steam unit may generate steam by heating water using a heater.

When the steam unit 320 is operated, the first valve 361 is open, so that water in the water tank is supplied to the steam tank 321. At this time, the second valve is closed and the drain pump is stopped, so that the water in the steam tank is not drained.

A supply hose 392 is connected to the steam cylinder 321 so that humidified air, that is, steam is supplied to the discharge port 9. The supply hose 392 is connected to a discharge port or an auxiliary vane so that humidified air is discharged into the room. In addition, the supply hose 392 may be connected to a flow path through which heat-exchanged air flows. The supply hose 392 may be provided with a valve that prevents the humidified air from being discharged from the steam cylinder or is supplied to the discharge port, or blocks the discharge of the humidified air.

As the water of the steam container is changed into fine particles by the operation of the steam unit 320 and is discharged to the discharge port 9, the water in the steam container is reduced. Since the first valve 361 is open, the water is reduced. Is supplied from the water tank and the steam bucket becomes full. When the water tank is full, water does not flow from the water tank. In some cases, the humidifying module control unit 310 may control the first valve so that the valve is closed.

The humidification module control unit 310 determines whether or not water in the water tank remains for a predetermined time or longer, and when the set use time has elapsed, operates the drain pump 350 to drain the remaining water through the drainage channel.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows the first valve 361 to be opened along with the operation of the drain pump 350, so that the water in the steam cylinder 321 is discharged to the drain through the drain hose 393 by the drain pump. At the same time, the water in the water tank is supplied to the steam tank to be drained.

The humidification module control unit 310 detects whether drainage is normally performed according to the water level of the water tank 329 sensed through the water level sensor 330, and also detects whether all water in the water tank is drained and is an air level. .

The humidification module control unit 310 causes the first valve 361 to close when the water in the water tank is drained, and stops the drain pump 350. In addition, the humidification module control unit 310 allows the guide for no water to be output through the display module.

8 is a view referred to for explaining the arrangement of the humidifying module in the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figure 8, the rear of the front panel 11 of the air conditioner is installed by inserting a water bottle 329 in the inner direction of the cabinet 12.

Inside the cabinet 12, a steam unit 320 connected to the water tank is disposed at the rear of the water tank 329. The water tank and the steam tank 321 of the steam unit 320 are connected to a connecting hose 391 so that water in the water tank is supplied to the steam tank.

In addition, a drain hose 393 is connected to the steam cylinder of the steam unit 320. The drain hose 393 is connected to the drain pump 350, and the drain hose 393 is extended to a drain (not shown) so that water is discharged to the outside.

The steam unit 320 is connected to the supply hose 392 so that the generated, humidified air is supplied to the discharge port, and the supply hose 392 is arranged to be connected to the upper discharge port from the steam cylinder 321. In addition, the supply hose 392 may be connected to the flow path of the heat exchanged air.

A second valve 362 is installed in the supply hose 392 to control the supply of humidified air to the discharge port depending on whether the valve is opened or closed.

9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for residual water treatment of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the water bottle detecting unit 340 detects whether the water bottle is mounted (S310). The water bottle detecting unit 340 detects whether the water bottle is separated from the main body and whether the water inlet of the water bottle is opened. The water bottle detecting unit 340 detects that the water bottle is mounted on the main body, and the state that is drawn inward is normally mounted.

The humidification module control unit 310 determines whether the water tank is mounted based on the signal of the water bottle detection unit, and when the inlet of the water tank is open or the water tank is detached, an error for the water tank and a guide requesting the installation of the water tank are provided. To be output through the display module (S330).

When the water tank is mounted, the water level sensor 330 detects the amount (height) of water in the water tank. The water level may vary depending on the type of sensor, the number of sensors, or the installation position of the sensor.

The humidification module control unit 310 sets the use time in response to the water level detected by the water level sensor 330. The use time is a time to keep water thrown into the water tank without discarding it.

The humidification module control unit 310 sets the use time in response to the amount of water. For example, the humidification module control unit 310 may be set to 3 to 5 days when the water level is higher than or equal to 1 day when the water level is lower than the low water level.

In addition, the humidification module control unit 310 counts the time when the use time is set (S360). It may further include a timer.

The humidification module control unit 310 controls the first valve so that water is supplied from the water tank to the steam tank while the humidified air is generated by the steam unit, and further, allows the generated humidified air to be discharged through the discharge port. 2 Control the valve.

The humidification module control unit 310 may output a notification for the additional water supply in response to a change in the water level detected by the water level sensor. The humidification module control unit 310 may output a notification to add water when the bucket reaches an air level before reaching the use time, and reset the use time in response to the detected water level sensor when the water is additionally supplied.

On the other hand, when water is re-supplied while the water remains in the bucket, the humidifying module control unit 310 may increase the use time according to the amount of additional water supplied from the existing use time. However, depending on the amount of water, the time is increased to a shorter time than the initially used time. For example, if 5 days is set at the full water level, when the water level decreases to below the medium water level and becomes full water through resupply, about 2 days can be added to the remaining usage time.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows the water in the water tank to be drained when the counted time reaches a set use time.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows the drain notification to be output through the display module (S380), and controls the first valve 361 and the drain pump to drain the water in the bucket (S390).

The drain pump allows the water in the steam container to be drained through the drain hose 393, and the water in the water tank is drained through the drain hose through the steam container.

The humidification module control unit 310 determines that the water level is empty by the water level sensor, stops the drainage pump and controls the valve by determining that the drainage is complete. In some cases, the humidification module control unit 310 allows the drain pump to operate for a predetermined time even after the tool level is detected by the water level sensor to process the residual water in the steam container or drain hose.

The humidification module control unit 310 outputs a notification about no water through the display module. The humidification module control unit 310 initializes the usage time.

When the water inlet of the water bottle is opened and water is newly introduced, the humidification module, as described above, resets the use time and allows the water in the water bottle to be drained after being used only for the set use time.

10 is a flowchart illustrating a water tank management method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 10, the water bottle detecting unit 340 detects the mounting state of the water bottle and inputs the detection signal accordingly to the humidifying module control unit 310 (S420).

The humidification module control unit 310 when the water tank is normally mounted (S430), the water level sensor 330 detects the water level of the water tank (S430).

The humidification module control unit 310 compares the sensed water level with a pre-stored water level. The pre-stored water level is the last measured water level before the water tank is removed or the water tank inlet is opened. The humidification module control unit 310 compares the water level before and after water is introduced into the water tank (S450).

When the water level is the same, the humidification module control unit 310 determines that no water is input and maintains the preset use time (S480).

On the other hand, if the detected water level of the water tank is different from the preset water level, it is determined that water is added and counts the number of times accordingly (S460), and the usage time for water is set in response to the detected water level (S470).

The humidification module control unit 310 may set a usage time by distinguishing when water is additionally injected in the state where there is residual water in the bucket and when water is additionally added in the absence of water above the airborne level.

The humidification module control unit 310 sets the use time according to the water level, that is, the amount of water when water is input in the air level. On the other hand, when water is additionally injected while water remains in the bucket, the preset use time is increased.

When the water tank is completely separated from the main body and installed, it can be determined that the water in the water tank has been emptied. In this case, the humidification module control unit 310 initializes the use time and resets the use time according to the water level.

The humidification module control unit 310 operates a drainage pump to drain water when the number of times the water is additionally added exceeds the set number (n) (S510). When the water tank is empty, a notification according to no water is output through the display module (S520).

When the water is not completely emptied and is additionally injected more than a set number of times, it can be determined that the use time has elapsed and drained for the initially charged water.

The humidification module control unit 310 may reduce the use time of water when the steam unit is not operated for a predetermined time or longer.

The humidification module control unit 310 maintains or changes the use time, and then accumulates and counts the time since water is added (S490). When the usage time is reset, the time count is also counted again after initialization.

Before reaching the set use time, the humidification module control unit 310 may increase or decrease the use time in response to the water level detected by the water level sensor. In addition, while the steam unit is operating, if the water level is less than the set value, a notification for replenishing water may be output.

The humidification module control unit 310 controls the drainage pump to automatically drain water regardless of the degree of remaining water (S500) when the set usage time is reached after water is input (S510).

The humidification module control unit 310 opens the first valve and operates the drain pump, so that water in the water tank passes through the drain hose through the steam tank and is drained to the outside.

The humidification module control unit 310 allows the notification of no water to be output through the display module when draining is completed (S520).

Accordingly, in the present invention, the water tank is provided on the rear surface of the front panel, so that water can be easily watered only by opening and closing the front panel, and it is easy to remove the water tank.

In addition, by setting the use time for the water in the water tank and automatically draining it when the use time has elapsed, the water in the water tank is left unattended for a long time to prevent rot or contamination, and to keep the water tank clean.

Through automatic drainage, it is possible to manage the user's health and provide a comfortable environment by not humidifying with contaminated water remaining in the water tank.

Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described as being combined and operated, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments. If within the scope of the object of the present invention, depending on the embodiment, all the components may be operated by selectively combining one or more.

The above description is merely illustrative of the technical idea of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention.

1: Indoor unit
9: outlet
10: main body 11: front panel
12: Cabinet 13: Circulator Door
15: circulator 17: proximity sensor
17: proximity sensor 141: inner panel
210: Vision module 292: Display module
329: bucket 400: cleaning module

Claims (21)

A body for discharging heat-exchanged air;
A front panel forming a front surface of the main body;
When the front panel is opened, a bucket disposed toward the front and exposed to the outside;
Includes a humidifying module for converting the water input to the bucket into fine particles to generate humidified air;
The humidification module,
A water level sensor that detects the water level in the bucket;
Timer counting time;
A drain pump connected to a drain hose to drain water; And
According to the water level detected by the water level sensor, the use time for the water in the water tank is set to the first time in the case of low water level, and the use time is set to the second time to the third time in accordance with the water level in case of the medium water level or higher. And, when the time counted by the timer reaches the use time, the air conditioner including a humidification module control unit for automatically draining the water in the water tank by operating the drain pump. delete According to claim 1,
The humidifying module control unit determines the completion of drainage according to the water level of the water tank sensed by the water level sensor, and when the drainage is completed, an air conditioner characterized in that a notification of no water is output. According to claim 1,
The humidifying module control unit, when the drainage is completed, the air conditioner, characterized in that for initializing the use time. According to claim 1,
The humidifying module includes: a steam unit connected to the water bottle and a connecting hose to receive water from the water bottle to generate humidified air; And
Further installed in the connecting hose further comprises a valve for controlling the water supply to the steam section,
The humidifying module control unit, the air conditioner, characterized in that while the steam unit is operating, by controlling the valve to supply the water in the water tank to the steam unit. The method of claim 5,
The humidifying module control unit, when draining the water, by opening the valve and operating the drain pump, the air conditioner, characterized in that to discharge the water of the water tank through the steam hose through the drain hose to the outside. According to claim 1,
The humidification module,
Further comprising a water bottle detection unit for detecting the mounting state of the water bottle,
The humidification module control unit judges that water is input when the water tank is separated or the input port is opened, compares the water level sensed by the water level sensor with the previously sensed water level, determines whether water is additionally added, and adds additional water. Air conditioner, characterized in that to change the use time according to the amount of water. The method of claim 7,
The humidifying module control unit is an air conditioner, characterized in that to output an error when the water tank is not properly mounted by the water bottle detecting unit. According to claim 1,
It is arranged on the front panel, and outputs the operation state and operation settings of the main body,
The air conditioner further includes a drainage notification for notifying that the water in the water tank is drained, and a display module for outputting a notification for no water when the water tank is empty. According to claim 1,
The water tank is arranged inside the cabinet forming the main body, and when the front panel is opened, a part of the water tank is exposed to the front air conditioner. According to claim 1,
The air conditioner is characterized in that when the front panel is opened, it is tilted at a predetermined angle around the rotation axis of the lower portion, and the upper portion protrudes toward the front side to open the inlet formed on the upper portion of the water bottle. According to claim 1,
The water tank is tilted by a pressing operation, a part of which protrudes to the front surface, and an air conditioner characterized in that it is drawn in and fixed to the cabinet of the main body by a pressing operation. According to claim 1,
The water tank is an air conditioner, characterized in that any part is formed of a transparent material. According to claim 1,
The water tank is an air conditioner, characterized in that a water level indicator is provided for displaying the water level. According to claim 1,
The air conditioner is characterized in that the water tank is separated from the body. According to claim 1,
The air conditioner, characterized in that the front panel is opened and closed by sliding to the left or right. Sensing a water level of the water bottle through a water level sensor when the water bottle is mounted;
If the water level is a low water level, setting a use time for water in the water tank as a first time;
Setting the use time of water differently from the second time to the third time according to the water level when the water level is equal to or higher than the medium water level;
Converting water input into the water tank into fine particles to generate humidified air;
A timer counting the time remaining in the water tank;
Operating the drainage pump connected to the drain hose when the counted time reaches the usage time; And
The method of controlling an air conditioner comprising a; automatically draining the water in the bucket. The method of claim 17,
Before operating the drain pump,
Opening a valve installed in a connection hose connecting the water tank and the steam bucket, so that the water in the water bucket is drained through the steam bucket; Control method of an air conditioner further comprising a. The method of claim 17,
The draining step may include outputting a drainage notification;
If it is detected that the water level in the bucket is an air level, determining that draining is completed; And
The control method of the air conditioner further comprising the step of outputting a notification about no water. The method of claim 17,
When the draining is completed, the control method of the air conditioner further comprising the step of resetting the use time. The method of claim 17,
If the water bottle is mounted, determining a water level change;
Comparing the water level sensed by the water level sensor with a previously sensed water level, and determining whether additional water is added;
And resetting the use time in response to the changed water level.

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