KR20220160515A - Air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air conditioner may comprise: a top proximity sensor; a bottom proximity sensor; and a projection module projecting a predetermined image in front of the bottom proximity sensor when a user is detected by the top proximity sensor. Accordingly, noise, malfunction, and safety accidents can be prevented, and stability and user convenience can be improved.

Description

Air conditioner {Air conditioner}

The present invention relates to an air conditioner and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an air conditioner capable of efficiently controlling air flow and a control method thereof.

Air conditioners are installed to provide a more comfortable indoor environment to humans by discharging cold and hot air into the room to adjust the indoor temperature and purify the indoor air in order to create a comfortable indoor environment.

In general, an air conditioner includes an indoor unit configured as a heat exchanger and installed indoors, and an outdoor unit configured as a compressor and a heat exchanger to supply refrigerant to the indoor unit.

The air conditioner is controlled by being separated from an indoor unit composed of a heat exchanger and an outdoor unit composed of a compressor and a heat exchanger, etc., and is operated by controlling power supplied to the compressor or heat exchanger. Also, the air conditioner may connect at least one indoor unit to the outdoor unit, supply refrigerant to the indoor unit according to a requested operating state, and operate in a cooling or heating mode.

In such an air conditioner, a wind direction control unit is typically provided at a discharge port to adjust a wind direction discharged into a room, and the wind direction can be changed by manipulating a wind direction setting button provided on a remote control or the like.

When conventional wind direction control means such as vertical vanes and horizontal vanes are used, it is difficult to freely control air flow due to the one-dimensionally moving vanes. Therefore, there is a need for a method capable of controlling the air flow more efficiently.

In addition, when the air conditioner includes one or more opening and closing structures such as a door, excessive noise may be generated during the opening and closing process, or a safety accident may occur in which a part of the user's body is caught in the opening and closing structure. Therefore, there is a need for a method capable of preventing noise and safety accidents while efficiently operating the air conditioner.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof capable of preventing noise, malfunction and safety accidents.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of efficiently controlling air flow and a control method thereof.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner capable of providing various functions such as a voice recognition function and a humidification function, and a control method thereof.

An object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner and an operating method thereof capable of storing and managing modules in a clean and safe manner when not in operation.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may control the operation of the sliding door according to a detection result of a proximity sensor for detecting whether or not a user is approaching.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may open the sliding door to expose the humidifying water container, and at this time, the moving speed of the sliding door may be controlled according to the position of the sliding door.

An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a main body including a sliding door and a cabinet to which the sliding door is movably coupled, a water container for humidification exposed to the outside according to the movement of the sliding door, disposed on the main body, When a user is detected by a proximity sensor unit that detects whether a user is approaching, a sliding door position sensor that detects an open or closed state of the sliding door, a sliding motor that provides power to the sliding door, and the proximity sensor unit, A control unit controlling the sliding door motor so that the sliding door is open and the humidifying water container is exposed, wherein the control unit detects the sliding door during an opening or closing operation of the sliding door. If so, the rotational speed of the sliding door motor may be controlled to decrease.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof capable of preventing noise, malfunction and safety accidents.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, airflow can be controlled in various and efficient ways.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, various functions such as a voice recognition function and a humidification function can be provided.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the modules can be stored and managed cleanly and safely inside when not in operation.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, by operating according to the detected location information of the user, stability and user convenience can be improved.

Meanwhile, other various effects will be disclosed directly or implicitly in detailed descriptions according to embodiments of the present invention to be described later.

1 is a view illustrating the appearance of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which a circulator door of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is opened.
FIG. 3 is a view showing a state in which the front panel of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is opened.
4 is a view showing a water container for humidification of the air conditioner of FIG. 1;
5 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 to 13 are views referenced for description of a method for controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
14 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
15 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various forms.

In the drawings, in order to clearly and concisely describe the present invention, parts not related to the description are omitted, 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 components used in the following description are simply given in consideration of the ease of preparation of this specification, and do not themselves give a particularly important meaning or role. Accordingly, the “module” and “unit” may be used interchangeably.

1 is a view illustrating an appearance of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and more specifically, shows an indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which a circulator door of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is opened, and FIG. 3 is a view showing a state in which a front panel of the air conditioner of FIG. 1 is open.

The air conditioner 1 may include an indoor unit configured as a heat exchanger and installed indoors, and an outdoor unit (not shown) configured as a compressor and a heat exchanger to supply refrigerant to the indoor unit.

1 to 3 , the main body 10 of the indoor unit may be provided indoors and connected to an outdoor unit (not shown) through a refrigerant pipe (not shown).

The air conditioner 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a front panel 11 forming a front exterior, and a circulator door disposed on the front panel 11 and moved in a vertical direction to open and close ( 13) may be included.

The body 10 may include a base 16 , a cabinet 12 , and a front panel 11 . The front panel 11 forms the front exterior of the main body 10, and the cabinet 12 may be installed to be positioned on the upper side of the base 16.

In addition, a circulator door 13 may be installed on the front panel 11 .

The indoor unit 1 may include an air intake port (not shown) and an air outlet port (not shown), and air sucked through the air intake port may be air-conditioned and then discharged through the air outlet port.

For example, a suction port (not shown) may be formed on the rear surface of the main body 10, and a discharge port (not shown) may be formed on the upper front surface of the main body 10.

Also, the suction port and the discharge port may be formed at different locations of the main body 10 . For example, a discharge port may be formed on a side surface of the lower part of the main body 10 . In addition, it will be possible to form a plurality of outlets on the upper front surface of the main body 10 and the side surface of the lower part of the main body 10 .

The inlet may be formed at one or more of a rear surface, a lower front surface, and a side surface of the main body 10 .

A filter unit (not shown) may be installed at the inlet to filter out foreign substances such as dust included in the inhaled air. In addition, a cleaning module 400 for cleaning the filter unit may be disposed in the main body 10 .

The discharge port may be opened and closed by the circulator door 13 .

The circulator module 15 may be provided inside the discharge port, that is, behind the circulator door 13 in a closed state. The circulator module 15 may generate a blowing force so that air is sucked in through the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

The circulator module 15 may be installed inside the main body 10 and discharge air through a discharge port exposed according to the opening of the circulator door 13 during operation.

In addition, the circulator module 15 may be operated by moving forward to the discharge port in which the circulator door 13 is opened. For example, after at least a part of the circulator module 15 moves forward to pass through a circular discharge port opened by moving the circulator door 13 downward, the circulator fan of the circulator module 15 It can rotate and operate.

As described above, in the present specification, the discharge port may mean an opening through which air or at least a part of the circulator module 15, which is a discharge unit for discharging air, passes.

The circulator door 13 may open and close the discharge port. The circulator door 13 opens and closes a main discharge port, and may be provided to discharge air processed by the air conditioner, such as heat-exchanged air and purified air, to the outside.

The circulator door 13 opens when the main body operates, exposing the circulator module 15 to the outside so that air is discharged through the discharge port, and closes when the operation is finished to close the discharge port. A space in which the circulator door 13 is accommodated may be provided on the inside or rear surface of the front panel 11 when the outlet is opened.

A moving means (not shown) for moving the circulator door 13 may be installed on one inner surface of the front panel 11 . For example, a circulator door motor, a gear member and a rail member for moving the circulator door 13 upward or downward according to the rotation of the circulator door motor are provided on one inner surface of the front panel 11. can include

Meanwhile, a step motor that is inexpensive and easy to control may be used as the circulator door motor. In this case, the circulator door motor may be referred to as a circulator door step motor.

The circulator door 13 may be configured to be opened by moving upward or downward from the inside of the main body 10 . Since the circulator door 13 is disposed above the front panel 11 of the body 10, it is more preferable in terms of space utilization that the circulator door 13 is configured to move downward and open.

Alternatively, the circulator door 13 may be configured to move backward to the inside of the main body 10 and then move upward or downward to be opened. Even in this case, it is more preferable in terms of space utilization that the circulator door 13 is configured to be opened by moving backward to the inside of the main body 10 and then moving downward.

Hereinafter, an example in which the circulator door 13 is opened and closed by moving in the vertical direction will be described, but the circulator door 13 may be opened by moving in a downward direction after moving backward in an inward direction, and the circulator door 13 ) can be closed by moving in the upper direction and then moving forward in the front direction.

When the circulator door 13 is opened, the circulator module 15 may discharge air by moving forward in a forward direction toward the front panel 11 .

In addition, when the operation ends, the circulator module 15 moves backward to the inside of the main body 10, and the discharge port can be closed by the movement of the circulator door 13.

In some cases, a blowing fan (not shown) may be further installed inside the main body 10 to assist in blowing power.

In addition, the air conditioner may further include a plurality of blowing fans in addition to the circulator module 15 inside the main body 10 . For example, a plurality of blowing fans may be disposed below the circulator module 15 .

Meanwhile, an auxiliary outlet (not shown) may be further installed on a side surface of the cabinet 12 . In addition, a wind direction control means for adjusting the wind direction of the discharged air may be disposed in the auxiliary outlet.

Existing air conditioners have limitations in discharging air over a long distance even when the maximum air volume is set. However, according to the present invention, by providing the circulator module 15 at the top, it is easier to send the wind to a long distance.

In addition, since the circulator module 15 is located at the final stage of the air discharge path, heat-exchanged air and purified air can be directly discharged to a long distance.

Conventional air conditioners often perform air flow control using vertical vanes or horizontal vanes. Therefore, in order for the air conditioner to send wind to a desired location, a one-dimensionally moving vane must be used.

Existing air conditioners can only control air flow one-dimensionally by using one-dimensional vanes. That is, since it is controlled only in the left and right or up and down directions, two-dimensional air flow control such as the lower left or upper right is impossible.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 , in the present invention, after the circulator door 13 is opened, the circulator module 15 as a discharge unit may rotate two-dimensionally. For example, the circulator module 15 can freely rotate in various directions by including a rotating part composed of a two-axis rotation structure using a double joint and a gear rack structure.

Accordingly, the circulator module 15 rotates where the user wants to control the air flow.

That is, in the past, air flow was controlled by using vanes to directly hit the vanes, but in the present invention, the entire circulator module 15 rotates, so air flow can be controlled in various ways.

In addition, after the entire circulator module 15 rotates, wind is sent to a place desired by the user for intensive cooling, thereby further increasing the user's comfort and satisfaction.

A display module 292 may be provided on the front panel 11 .

The display module 292 displays operating states and setting information, and is configured as a touch screen to receive user commands. Depending on the embodiment, a control unit (not shown) including at least one input means such as a switch, a button, or a touch pad may be provided on the front panel 11 .

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

According to embodiments, the display module 292 may further include one or more lights.

A proximity sensor 17 may be installed on the base 16 . The proximity sensor 17 may detect a user's approach to the body 10 and generate and output a signal corresponding to the user's approach.

According to the embodiment, when a proximity signal corresponding to a user's approach is input from the proximity sensor 17, the display module 292 is activated to display operation information, and at least one light provided in the main body 10 this can work

Meanwhile, the proximity sensor 17 may be disposed in a predetermined lower area of the front panel 11 .

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a proximity sensor (not shown) separately detecting a human body in addition to the proximity sensor 17 . In this case, the proximity sensor 17 disposed on the relatively lower side may be referred to as a lower proximity sensor, and the proximity sensor disposed on a relatively upper side may be referred to as an upper proximity sensor.

Meanwhile, a vision module 210 including at least one camera may be installed on the front panel 11 . In addition, an audio input unit (not shown) and an audio output unit (not shown) may be installed on the front panel 11 .

The main body 10 may include a heat exchanger (not shown) for exchanging heat between the sucked air and the refrigerant therein.

The front panel 11 can be moved by sliding to the left or right. Accordingly, the front panel 11 may also be referred to as a sliding door.

The front panel 11 is mounted by sliding means formed on the cabinet 12 and can move left and right. A portion of the inner panel 141 of the main body may be exposed to the outside by the movement of the front panel 11 .

For example, the cabinet 12 may include a sliding door step motor, a gear member for moving the front panel 11 in a left or right direction according to rotation of the sliding door step motor, a rail member, and the like. have.

The inner panel 141 accommodates the circulator module 15, and a moving means (not shown) for moving the circulator module 15 may be installed.

Depending on the embodiment, the circulator module 15 includes a circulator fan (not shown), at least a circulator rotating part (not shown) capable of rotating so that the direction in which the circulator fan (not shown) is directed is changed, and at least a circulator fan (not shown). It may include a circulator moving unit (not shown) capable of moving a radiator fan (not shown).

A water container 329 for humidification of the humidification module may be installed at the bottom of the inner panel 141 . The water container 329 may be exposed to the outside as the front panel 11 is moved to the left or right and opened.

4 is a view showing a water container for humidification of the air conditioner of FIG. 1;

Referring to FIG. 4 , the water container 329 for humidification may be exposed to the outside as the sliding door 11 moves left or right.

An inlet through which water can be filled may be formed in a predetermined area of the water container 329 for humidification. Depending on the embodiment, the inlet may be open, or a cover capable of opening and closing at least a part of the inlet may be disposed.

The water container 329 may be connected to the cabinet 12 by having a moving shaft formed thereon. An upper portion of the water container 329 may be moved to protrude toward the front based on a moving shaft of the lower portion, so that the inlet is opened. The water container 329 may be tilted toward the front such that an upper portion forms a predetermined angle θ with the inner panel 141 .

Also, the water container 329 may be separated from the main body 10 .

A sensor for detecting whether or not the water container is mounted may be provided inside the main body 10 .

When the user's approach is detected by the proximity sensor 17, the water container 329 may automatically move according to the proximity signal and the inlet may be opened.

The water container 329 may move as a handle (not shown) is pulled toward the front, and the inlet may be opened.

As the fixing part (not shown) is released by pushing the water container 329 inward, the water container 329 may be moved to the front and the inlet may be opened.

In addition, as the sliding door 11 slides and opens, the water container 329 automatically rotates to open the inlet.

A water level display unit (not shown) may be provided on the inner panel 141 or a part of the water container 329 to display the water level of the water container.

In addition, the water container 329 may be configured to check the amount of water therein. For example, the water tank 329 may be formed of a material with a transparent front surface. A part of the front surface of the water tank may be formed of a transparent material. In addition, the entirety of the water container 329 may be formed of a transparent material.

5 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor unit 215 including one or more sensors for sensing various data, a memory 256 for storing various data, other electronic devices and wireless A communication unit 270 for communication, a cleaning module 400, a humidification module 300, a control unit 240 for controlling overall operations, and a heat exchanger provided inside the body 10 under the control of the control unit 240 , a valve, may include a driving unit 280 for controlling the operation of the wind direction control means.

For example, the sensor unit 215 may include one or more temperature sensors for sensing indoor and outdoor temperatures, a humidity sensor for sensing humidity, and a dust sensor for sensing air quality.

The temperature sensor is installed at the inlet to measure the room temperature, installed inside the main body 10 to measure the heat exchange temperature, installed at one side of the outlet to measure the temperature of the discharged air, and installed in the refrigerant pipe to measure the refrigerant temperature can be measured.

Depending on the embodiment, the sensor unit 215 may include one or more human body detection sensors. For example, the sensor unit 215 may include a proximity sensor 17 .

The proximity sensor 17 may detect a person or object approaching within a predetermined distance.

In addition, the proximity sensor 17 can detect the presence of a user and the distance to the user.

The proximity sensor 17 may be installed on the lower part of the main body 10, the front part of the base 16 or the front panel 11, and may also be installed adjacent to the display module 292.

The proximity sensor 17 may input an approach signal to the control unit 240 when a predetermined object or person approaches within a predetermined distance. The proximity sensor 17 may detect a user's approach to the body 10 and generate and output a signal corresponding to the user's approach.

In addition, the sensor unit 215 may include one or more position sensors for detecting positions of units included in the air conditioner.

Meanwhile, the controller 240 may control the operation of the air conditioner based on data sensed by the sensor unit 215 .

The memory 256 records various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner, such as control data for controlling operation, data for operation mode, data sensed by the sensor unit 215, data transmitted and received through the communication unit, etc. this can be stored.

The memory 256 may include volatile or non-volatile recording media. Recording media stores data that can be read by a microprocessor, such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Disk), SDD (Silicon Disk Drive), ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, and the like.

Meanwhile, data for voice recognition may be stored in the memory 256, and the controller 240 may process a user's voice input signal received through the audio input unit 220 and perform a voice recognition process.

Meanwhile, simple voice recognition may be performed by an air conditioner, and high-level voice recognition such as natural language processing may be performed by a voice recognition server system.

For example, when a wake up voice signal including a preset call word is received, the air conditioner may be switched to a state for receiving a voice command. In this case, the air conditioner performs only the voice recognition process up to whether the calling word voice is input, and voice recognition for the user's voice input thereafter can be performed through the voice recognition server system.

Since system resources of the air conditioner are limited, complex natural language recognition and processing may be performed through a voice recognition server system.

Depending on the embodiment, a sound source file of a voice command input by a user may be stored in the memory 256, and the stored sound source file may be transmitted to the voice recognition server system through the communication unit 270. In addition, the stored sound source file may be deleted after a preset time elapses or a preset operation is performed.

The communication unit 270 includes one or more communication modules, and can perform wireless communication with other electronic devices according to a predetermined communication method to send and receive various signals.

Here, the predetermined communication method may be a Wi-Fi communication method. Correspondingly, the communication module provided by the air conditioner may be a Wi-Fi communication module, but the present invention is not limited to the communication method.

Alternatively, the air conditioner may include a different type of communication module or a plurality of communication modules. For example, the air conditioner may include an NFC module, a zigbee communication module, a Bluetooth™ communication module, and the like.

The air conditioner can be connected to a server included in the voice recognition server system, a predetermined external server, a user's portable terminal, etc. through a Wi-Fi communication module, etc., and can support smart functions such as remote monitoring and remote control.

The user can check information about the air conditioner or control the air conditioner through the portable terminal.

In addition, the communication unit 270 may communicate with an access point (AP) device and communicate with other devices by accessing a wireless Internet network through the access point device.

In addition, the controller 240 may transmit state information of the air conditioner, a user's voice command, and the like to a voice recognition server system through the communication unit 270 .

Meanwhile, when a control signal is received through the communication unit 270, the controller 240 may control the air conditioner to operate according to the received control signal.

The driving unit 280 may control the amount of air discharged into the room by controlling rotation of motors connected to the indoor fans. For example, the driving unit 280 may control the rotation of a motor connected to a circulator fan provided in the circulator module 15 or another blowing fan at a lower end of the circulator fan.

In addition, the driving unit 280 may control the driving of the heat exchanger to exchange heat with surrounding air by evaporating or condensing the refrigerant supplied to the heat exchanger.

The driving unit 280 may control the operation of valves, wind direction adjusting means, etc. provided inside the main body 10 in response to a control command of the control unit 240 .

Depending on the embodiment, the controller 240 may directly control a predetermined unit in the air conditioner.

Meanwhile, the driving unit 280 may include a motor driving unit, and may include an inverter or the like to drive the motor.

Depending on the embodiment, the driving unit 280 may provide driving force so that the circulator module 15 rotates. In addition, the drive unit 280 may provide power to a circulator moving unit (not shown) so that the circulator module 15 can move. In addition, the drive unit 280 may control the opening and closing of valves installed therein. In some cases, the driver 280 may provide a driving force so that the front panel 11 slides left or right. Depending on the embodiment, the driving unit 280 may include a circulator driving unit and a front panel driving unit.

The cleaning module 400 is installed in the filter unit to clean foreign substances in the filter unit. The cleaning module 400 may include a cleaning robot (not shown). The cleaning robot may suck foreign substances from the filter unit while moving along the surface of the filter unit. Also, the cleaning robot may sterilize the filter unit by using a sterilizing lamp while cleaning the filter unit. The cleaning module 400 may further include a position sensor for detecting the position of the cleaning robot.

The humidification module 300 may receive water from the water container 329, perform humidification to provide moisture, and discharge humidified air to the outside. The humidifying module 300 may generate steam to humidify the air, and discharge the humidified air into the room through the outlet together with the conditioned air.

The humidification module 300 may use a vibration method using vibration, a heating method, a spray method of spraying water, and various other humidification methods.

The controller 240 may process input/output data, store the data in the memory 256, and transmit/receive the data through the communication unit 270.

The control unit 240 controls the air conditioner to operate according to an input through the display module 292, the control unit 230, etc., transmits and receives data to and from the outdoor unit, and cools and warms air conditioned by the refrigerant supplied from the outdoor unit into the room. The driving unit 280 may be controlled to discharge.

The controller 240 may control the circulator module 15 to discharge air to the outside based on the set operation mode or the data measured by the sensor unit 215 .

In addition, the controller 240 may control the cleaning module 400 so that the humidifying module 300 operates, humidified air is discharged, and the filter is cleaned.

The control unit 240 may detect a occupant through the sensor unit 215 or the vision module 210 and control air flow based on the detected occupant's location information.

The controller 240 may monitor the operating state of each module and control the operating state to be output through the display module 292 according to applied data.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a power supply unit 299, a vision module 210, an audio input unit 220 that receives a user's voice command, and a display that displays predetermined information as an image. A module 292, an audio output unit 291 outputting predetermined information as audio, and the like may be further included.

The power supply unit 299 may supply operating power to each unit of the air conditioner. The power supply unit 299 may rectify and smooth the connected power to generate and supply voltages required by each unit. In addition, the power supply unit 299 may prevent inrush current and generate a constant voltage. In addition, the power supply unit 299 may supply operation power to an outdoor unit (not shown).

The audio input unit 220 may receive an external audio signal or a user voice command. To this end, the audio input unit 220 may include one or more microphones (MIC). Also, in order to more accurately receive a user's voice command, the audio input unit 220 may include a plurality of microphones. The plurality of microphones may be spaced apart from each other at different locations, and may obtain an external audio signal and process it into an electrical signal.

The audio input unit 220 includes a processing unit that converts analog sound into digital data or is connected to the processing unit to convert a user input voice command into data so that the control unit 240 or a predetermined server can recognize it.

Meanwhile, the audio input unit 220 may use various noise cancellation algorithms to remove noise generated in the process of receiving a user's voice command.

In addition, the audio input unit 220 may include components for audio signal processing, such as a filter for removing noise from an audio signal received from each microphone and an amplifier for amplifying and outputting a signal output from the filter.

The display module 292 may display information corresponding to a user's command input, a processing result corresponding to a user's command input, an operation mode, an operation state, an error state, and the like as an image.

Depending on the embodiment, the display module 292 may be configured as a touch screen by forming a mutual layer structure with a touch pad. In this case, the display 292 may be used as an input device capable of inputting information by a user's touch in addition to an output device.

Depending on the embodiment, the display module 292 may further include a lighting unit that outputs an operating state according to whether or not the display module 292 is lit, a lit color, or blinking.

Depending on the embodiment, the air conditioner may further include a separate control unit 230. The control unit 230 may include at least one of a button, a switch, and a touch input means, and may input a user command or predetermined data to the air conditioner.

In addition, the audio output unit 291, according to the control of the control unit 240, a notification message such as a warning sound, an operation mode, an operation state, an error state, information corresponding to a user's command input, and processing corresponding to a user's command input Results can be output as audio.

Meanwhile, the audio output unit 291 may convert an electrical signal from the control unit 240 into an audio signal and output the converted audio signal. To this end, a speaker or the like may be provided.

The vision module 210, including at least one camera, may capture an indoor environment. The camera is to photograph the surroundings of the air conditioner, the external environment, and the like, and several cameras may be installed for each part for photographing efficiency.

For example, a camera includes an image sensor (eg, CMOS image sensor) including at least one optical lens and a plurality of photodiodes (eg, pixels) on which an image is formed by light passing through the optical lens. ) and a digital signal processor (DSP) that configures an image based on signals output from the photodiodes. The digital signal processor can create not only still images, but also moving images composed of frames composed of still images.

Meanwhile, an image captured by a camera may be stored in the memory 256 .

Depending on the embodiment, the user's location may be detected based on the image acquired by the vision module 210 .

The vision module 210 may be installed on the front panel 11 and, in some cases, on the upper panel of the cabinet. In addition, the vision module 210 may be accommodated inside the main body 10 when not in operation, and then operate after being lifted.

6 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The control unit 240 may be composed of one or a plurality of microprocessors.

Referring to FIG. 6, the controller 240 includes a main controller 241, a vision module controller 242, a power supply controller 243, a lighting controller 244, a display module controller 245, and a humidifier module controller according to functions. 246, a cleaning module controller 247, and the like.

Each control unit 241 to 247 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 300 may be controlled through a single microprocessor.

Depending on the embodiment, the main control unit 241 may apply a control command to the remaining control units 242 to 247, and may receive and process data from each control unit. The main control unit 241 and the rest of the control units 242 to 247 may be connected in the form of a bus to transmit and receive data.

Depending on the embodiment, a microprocessor is installed in each module, so that the module's own operation can be processed more quickly. For example, the display module controller 245 may be provided in the display module 292, and the humidification module controller 246 may be provided in the humidification module 300 to control its operation.

Meanwhile, the block diagram of the controller 240 shown in FIG. 6 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 specifications of units in the controller 240 and the air conditioner that are actually implemented. That is, if necessary, two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be subdivided into two or more components. In addition, functions performed in each block are for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, and the specific operation or device does not limit the scope of the present invention.

7 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7, the air conditioner includes a vision module 210, a sensor unit 215 for sensing various data, an audio input unit 220 for receiving a user's voice command, a control unit 230, and a sensor unit 215 for storing various data. A memory 256, a communication unit 270 wirelessly communicating with other electronic devices, a driving unit 280 performing operations implemented in an air conditioner, a display module 292 displaying predetermined information as an image, and outputting predetermined information as audio It may include an audio output unit 291, a humidifying module 300, a cleaning module 400, a controller 240 controlling overall operations, and a processor 260.

The internal block diagram of the air conditioner of FIG. 7 is similar to that of FIG. 5, but a processor 260 is further provided, and an audio input unit 220, an audio output unit 291, a communication unit 270, and a processor 260 The difference is that is provided in the voice recognition module 205, which is one single module.

Depending on the embodiment, the voice recognition module 205 may include a communication unit 270 and a processor 260, and the audio input unit 220 and the audio output unit 291 are separate integrated modules. can be configured.

Meanwhile, the processor 260 may control the audio input unit 220, the audio output unit 291, the communication unit 270, and the like.

Hereinafter, the description will focus on differences from FIG. 5 .

The processor 260 may process a user's voice input signal received through the audio input unit 220 and perform a voice recognition process.

For example, when a wake up voice signal including a preset call word is received, the processor 260 may switch to a state for receiving a voice command. In this case, the processor 260 performs only the voice recognition process up to whether the voice of the calling word is input, and voice recognition of the user's voice input thereafter can be performed through the voice recognition server system.

The processor 260 may control the user's voice command input after recognizing the wake up voice signal to be transmitted to the voice recognition server system through the communication unit 270 .

In addition, the processor 260 may transmit state information of the air conditioner, a user's voice command, and the like to a voice recognition server system through the communication unit 270 .

Meanwhile, when a control signal is received through the communication unit 270, the processor 260 transmits the control signal to the control unit 240, and the control unit 240 can control the air conditioner to operate according to the received control signal. .

As a result, through the voice recognition module 205, voice data acquisition, communication with the server system, and corresponding sound output can be performed.

Meanwhile, the voice recognition module 205 may be attached to various electronic devices other than air conditioners. Alternatively, it may be used as a separate device without being attached to other electronic devices.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may receive a user's voice input, and the voice recognition server system may recognize and analyze the user's voice input to control the air conditioner.

Accordingly, the user can control the air conditioner without manipulating the mobile terminal or the remote control device.

8 is a block diagram showing a control relationship between major components of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1 to 8, the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention forms a front exterior and has a sliding door 11 that opens and closes by moving in the left and right directions, and the sliding door 11 moves in the left and right directions. A sliding door motor 810 that provides power to the sliding door 11 so as to move to the sliding door 11, an upper proximity sensor 1010 disposed on the sliding door 11 and detecting whether or not a user is approaching, and the upper proximity sensor When the user is sensed by the lower proximity sensor 1020 disposed below, and the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020, the sliding door motor opens the sliding door 11 A controller 240 controlling the 810 may be included.

That is, when a user is detected by both the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020, the control unit 240 can recognize it as a sliding door on input for opening the sliding door 11.

According to the embodiment, the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020 at the same time, or the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and then detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020 within a certain period of time. When is detected, it can be recognized as a sliding door on input.

Meanwhile, the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a moving means (not shown) for moving the sliding door 11 . For example, the cabinet 12 may include a sliding door motor 810, a gear member for moving the sliding door 11 in the left or right direction according to rotation of the sliding door motor 810, a rail member, and the like. can

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may move the mechanism structure using a step motor. The stepper motor rotates in proportion to the number of pulses and changes in rotational speed in proportion to the input frequency. Therefore, since the amount of movement of the mechanism structure is proportional to the number of pulses, there are advantages of simple control and low cost.

Accordingly, a step motor may be used as the sliding door motor 810 . In this case, the sliding door motor 810 may also be referred to as a sliding door step motor 810.

The controller 240 may open or close the sliding door 11 by rotating the sliding door motor 810 .

For example, the control unit 240 controls the sliding door 11 to move leftward and open based on a sliding door on command, and controls the sliding door 11 to open based on a sliding off command. 11) can be controlled to move to the right and close.

On the other hand, when the sliding door 11 is opened and closed by sliding in the left and right directions, noise may be generated during overswing. Such noise generation may give a user discomfort and decrease product reliability.

In addition, a safety accident in which a part of the human body is caught in a space generated when the sliding door 11 is opened and closed may occur.

In addition, an erroneous operation of opening or closing the sliding door 11 inconsistent with the user's intention may occur, and such erroneous operation may lead to a safety accident.

Therefore, the present invention proposes a method capable of preventing noise, malfunction, and safety accidents during sliding movement of the sliding door 11 in the left and right directions.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 240 turns on the sliding door to open the sliding door 11 when a user is detected by both the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020. ) can be recognized as an input.

According to the embodiment, the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020 at the same time, or the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and then detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020 within a certain period of time. When is detected, it can be recognized as a sliding door on input.

If a user is detected by any one of the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020 as a sliding door on input, the possibility of malfunction increases.

For example, since children and companion animals can be detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020, it is inappropriate to open the sliding door 11 whenever a user is detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020.

In addition, when a user who manipulates the display module 292 located in front of the sliding door 11 or feels heat approaches the front of the air conditioner, not the intention related to the water tank 329 for humidification, the top proximity A user may be detected by the sensor 1010 . Therefore, it is inappropriate to open the sliding door 11 whenever a user is sensed by the upper proximity sensor 1010.

Therefore, in the present invention, when both the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020 detect a user, the sliding door 11 can be opened automatically, and convenience and safety can be improved.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a projection module (not shown) projecting a predetermined image when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 .

When the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010, the projection module may project the predetermined image forward of the lower proximity sensor 1020.

In this case, the projection module projects characters and graphic objects such as "door open" and "open door" to the front of the lower proximity sensor 1020, so that the user who wants to open the sliding door 11 It can be induced to move forward of the proximity sensor 1020.

When the projection module with the user's foot approaches the front area of the lower proximity sensor 1020 where a predetermined image or predetermined light is projected, the sliding door motor 810 may start operating.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a display module 292 that receives a touch input.

Depending on the embodiment, the controller 240 controls the sliding door motor 810 to open the sliding door 11 when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the touch input is received. can control.

That is, if there is a user's touch input without requiring the user to be additionally sensed by the lower proximity sensor 1020, the sliding door 11 can be opened in response thereto.

In this case, when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010, text and graphic objects such as "door open" and "open door" are displayed on the display module 292, and the sliding door is turned on. A touch input corresponding to the input may be requested from the user.

In response to this, when the user inputs a touch, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to open the sliding door 11 .

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a sliding door position sensor 820 including a first position sensor and a second position sensor for detecting the position of the sliding door 11 .

The sliding door position sensor 820 may be disposed on the base 16 . Alternatively, the sliding door position sensor 820 may be disposed on the inner panel 141 . The placement position of the sliding door position sensor 820 may vary depending on the sensing method and the model structure of the air conditioner.

The sliding door position sensor 820 may include a plurality of sensors. For example, the sliding door position sensor 820 may include a first position sensor (see 820a in FIG. 14 ) and a second position sensor (see 820b in FIG. 14 ).

Preferably, the first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b may be spaced apart from each other, and the distance between the first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b is the sliding door 11 ) can be set to correspond to the moving distance of

In addition, the first position sensor 820a may detect a closed state of the sliding door 11, and the second position sensor 820b may detect an open state of the sliding door 11. To this end, the first position sensor 820a is disposed at a position corresponding to the starting point of movement of the sliding door 11 to detect a closed state, and the second position sensor 820b is used to detect the movement of the sliding door 11. The open state of the sliding door 11 may be detected by being disposed at a position corresponding to the moving end point.

In this specification, the movement starting point of the sliding door 11 may mean the rightmost point (when viewed from the front) of the sliding door 11 in a closed state before the sliding door 11 starts an opening operation. .

Also, in the present specification, the moving end point of the sliding door 11 may mean the rightmost point of the sliding door 11 in an open state after the sliding door 11 completes the opening operation.

Depending on the embodiment, the moving end point of the sliding door 11 may mean the leftmost point (when viewed from the front) of the sliding door 11 in a closed state before the sliding door 11 starts an opening operation. have.

Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited to the sensing method of the sliding door position sensor 820, and various types of sensors may be used.

For example, the first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b may be infrared (IR) sensors. The first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b are positioned at the start and end points of the movement of the sliding door 13, respectively, and can detect the position of the sliding door 11. Also, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 based on the sensed location information.

Alternatively, the sliding door position sensor 820 may detect whether the sliding door 11 is opened or closed and/or the position using a Hall IC, a trigger switch, a rotary switch, or the like.

The sensor unit 215 may include a sliding door position sensor 820 , and the control unit 240 may control the air conditioner based on sensing data of the sliding door position sensor 820 .

The controller 240 rotates the sliding door motor 810 when the second position sensor 820b detects the sliding door 11 at a first distance during the opening operation of the sliding door 11 . You can control it to slow down.

In addition, when the second position sensor 820b detects the sliding door 11 at a second distance shorter than the first distance, the control unit 240 stops rotation of the sliding door motor 810. You can control it.

That is, before the sliding door 11 reaches the end point of movement, the speed of the sliding door 11 is reduced, and the sliding door motor 810 rotates at a second distance right before reaching the end point of movement. can be controlled to stop.

Accordingly, it is possible to control the sliding door 11 to open smoothly to an accurate position without generating noise due to overswing.

In addition, interference with the humidifying water container 329 that may occur during the opening operation of the sliding door 11 can be prevented.

In the same way, when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a third distance during the closing operation of the sliding door 11, the controller 240 controls the sliding door motor ( 810) may be controlled to decrease.

In addition, the control unit 240 may stop rotation of the sliding door motor 810 when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a fourth distance shorter than the third distance. You can control it.

Accordingly, it is possible to control the sliding door 11 to close smoothly to an accurate position without generating noise due to overswing.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a sensor 830 that detects whether or not the humidifying water container 329 is mounted. For example, the air conditioner may include a hall sensor 830 to detect whether or not the humidifying water container 329 is installed.

When a sliding door off command is input, the controller 240 may check whether the humidifying water container 329 is mounted.

When the water container 329 for humidification is installed in an accurate position, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to close the sliding door 11 .

If the humidification water tank 329 of the humidification module 300 is not installed in an accurate position or is tilted, the controller 240 notifies the installation of the humidification water tank 329. can be controlled to output.

For example, the display module 292 displays an image guiding the mounting of the humidifying water tank 329, and the audio output unit 291 produces sound guiding the mounting of the humidifying water tank 329. can be printed out.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the sliding door 11 from being closed in a state in which the water container 329 for humidification is removed.

Depending on the embodiment, the control unit 240 includes a first control unit 246 for controlling the movement of the sliding door position sensor 820 and the sliding door 11, the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the circulator door 13 ) may include a second control unit 245 for controlling the movement of.

Depending on the embodiment, the first controller 246 may be a humidification module controller 246 that controls the humidification module 300 .

The sliding door 11 can conveniently take out the humidification water container 329 supplying water used in the humidification module 300 or open it for pipe work. Depending on the embodiment, the first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b may be disposed on the left and right sides of the water container 329 for humidification, respectively.

Therefore, by controlling the movement of the sliding door 11 in the humidification module control unit 246 that controls the humidification module 300, the connection structure can be configured more simply and the processing speed can be improved.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a proximity sensor 1010 disposed on the sliding door 11 and detecting whether or not a user is approaching.

In this case, the control unit 240 may control the opening and closing operation of the circulator door 13 based on data detected by the proximity sensor 1010 .

More preferably, the proximity sensor 1010 can detect the presence of a user within a predetermined range and the distance to the user. The controller 240 may control the air conditioner based on distance information between the air conditioner and the user.

In addition, in order to prevent a user's hand from getting caught, it is more preferable that the proximity sensor 1010 be the upper proximity sensor 1010 disposed relatively higher than the lower proximity sensor 1020.

More preferably, the upper proximity sensor 1010 may be disposed on the display module 292. The display module 292 may provide information to a user and receive a user's touch input. Accordingly, in many cases, a user is located in front of the display module 292 in various input processes or in many other cases. Therefore, since the upper proximity sensor 1010 is disposed on the display module 292, it is possible to most accurately and quickly detect a case where a user inputs a product off command and the like and does not retreat.

In addition, since circuit elements for the upper proximity sensor 1010 can be mounted on a board provided in the display module 292, circuits and connection lines can be configured more simply.

In this case, the second controller 245 may be the display module controller 245 that controls the display module 292 .

Meanwhile, the display module control unit 245 may transfer sensing data received from the upper proximity sensor 1010 to the humidification module control unit 246 or the like.

A lower proximity sensor 1020 may be installed on the base 16 . The lower proximity sensor 1020 may detect a user's approach to the main body 10 and generate and output a signal corresponding to the user's approach.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the display module controller 245 may receive and process sensing data from the lower proximity sensor 1020 . Accordingly, the display module control unit 245 may determine the user's location based on the sensing data of the upper proximity sensor 1010 and the lower proximity sensor 1020 .

Unlike FIG. 8 , the humidification module control unit 246 may receive and process sensing data from the lower proximity sensor 1020 . The lower proximity sensor 1020 may be disposed at the lower end of the sliding door 11 or on the base 16 . Accordingly, it may be convenient to connect the lower proximity sensor 1020 and the humidifying module controller 246.

In addition, it may be effective to utilize the data sensed by the lower proximity sensor 1020 when opening and closing the sliding door 11 . Accordingly, the humidification module control unit 246 controlling the movement of the sliding door 11 may control the lower proximity sensor 1020 .

Meanwhile, the controller 240 may include a third controller 241 that controls the circulator module 15 and the like. The third controller 241 may be a main controller 241 capable of controlling overall operations of the controller 240 .

The main control unit 241 can control fan driving, movement, and rotation of the circulator module 15 . Depending on the embodiment, the driving unit 280 may control at least one of fan driving, movement, and rotation of the circulator module 15 according to the control of the main controller 241 .

The main controller 241 may control the humidification module controller 246 and the display module controller 245 and transmit predetermined data. For example, sensing data of the upper proximity sensor 1010 received from the display module controller 245 may be transmitted to the humidification module controller 246 .

Also, the main controller 241 may control the humidifying module controller 246 to operate in response to the control operation of the display module controller 245 .

The humidification module 300 may include a Hall sensor 830 that detects whether or not the humidification water container 329 is installed. Alternatively, the humidification module 300 may include other types of sensors that detect whether or not the humidification water container 329 is installed.

An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention may include proximity sensors 1010 and 1020 that detect whether or not a user is approaching. A sensor capable of detecting a human body, such as an optical sensor, a PIR sensor, and a Doppler sensor, may be applied to the upper proximity sensor 1010 .

For example, an upper proximity sensor 1010 detecting whether a user is approaching may be disposed. More preferably, the upper proximity sensor 1010 may be disposed on the display module 292.

The display module controller 245 may receive a signal from the upper proximity sensor 1010 and transmit the signal to the humidification module controller 246 and/or the main controller 241 .

Meanwhile, when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects the user's approach, the display module controller 245 may control the display module 292 to output a notification recommending retreat.

The humidification module control unit 246 may control the moving speed of the sliding door 11 to be reduced when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user's approach and the sliding door 11 is in a closing operation. have.

That is, the humidification module control unit 246 may reduce the rotational speed of the sliding door motor 810 in response to a user located at a short distance to reduce the moving speed of the sliding door 11 .

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a jamming accident during the closing operation of the sliding door 11 .

In addition, the humidification module control unit 246 stops the movement of the sliding door 11 for a predetermined time when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user's approach and the sliding door 11 is in an open operation. Afterwards, the opening operation of the sliding door 11 can be resumed.

Since the probability of occurrence of a jamming accident during the opening operation is lower than that of the closing operation, in response to a user located at a short distance, the humidifying module control unit 246 may control the opening operation to be continued after stopping the opening operation for a while. . Accordingly, both safety and efficiency can be increased.

Also, when the opening operation is temporarily stopped, the controller 240 may control the display module 292 and/or the audio output unit 291 to output a notification recommending retreat.

According to the present invention, the presence or absence of a user is detected in the front using the upper proximity sensor 1010, and a warning notification and door closing speed can be adjusted. Accordingly, jamming or collision can be prevented.

In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to detect and respond to collisions and jamming that may occur in the process of opening and closing the sliding door 11 .

Accordingly, it is possible to minimize damage that may occur due to jamming or collision of the sliding door 11 .

Meanwhile, the circulator module 15 may move backward based on a product off command and move forward based on a product on command.

In this specification, the product off (off) command, may be a power off (power off) input to turn off the power of the air conditioner. Alternatively, the product off command may be a command corresponding to a specific mode in which the circulator module 15 does not operate and the circulator door 13 is closed.

In this specification, the product on command may be a power on input for applying power to the air conditioner. Alternatively, the product on command may be a command corresponding to a specific mode in which the circulator door 13 is opened and the circulator module 15 operates.

The circulator module 15 may operate under the control of the main controller 241 . The main controller 241 may smartly control the circulator module 15 according to the user's position detected by the upper proximity sensor and/or the vision module 210 .

For example, when a user is detected from a long distance, the circulator module 15 is rotated to face upwards, and then the circulator fan is controlled to be driven so that air can be sent farther away and closer to the user during cooling and air cleaning. .

The controller 240 controls the circulator door 13 to move downward and open based on a product on command, and controls the circulator door 13 to open based on a product off command. It can be controlled to move upward and close.

The display module control unit 245 controls the circulator door 13 to move downward and open based on a product on command, and controls the circulator door 13 to open based on a product off command. ) can be controlled to move upward and close.

Also, the display module controller 245 may control the circulator door step motor 850 based on data sensed by the upper proximity sensor 1010 .

When a product off command is received and the user is not detected within a predetermined distance from the upper proximity sensor 1010, the display module control unit 245 moves the circulator door 13 upward, You can control it to close.

Also, according to the control of the display module controller 245, the display module 292 may output various kinds of warning information.

In particular, when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user within a predetermined distance, the display module controller 245 may control the display module 292 to display warning information.

Also, prior to the sliding operation of the sliding door 11, the display module 292 may output a notification recommending the user to retreat.

Also, the audio output unit 291 may output a notification recommending that the user retreat.

9 to 13 are views referenced for description of a method for controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a view illustrating in detail the lower part of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention when the sliding door 11 is opened.

10 is a view showing a state in which the circulator door 13 of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is closed to the final closed position (the position when it is completely closed), and FIG. A view showing a state in which the circulator door 13 of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is opened to the final open position (the position when it is completely opened), and FIG. 12 is the circulator door 13 It is a view looking at the front panel 11 from the inside direction in an open state.

13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user 1300 within a reference distance R.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13 , a first position sensor 820a and a second position sensor 820b for detecting the position of the sliding door 11 may be disposed on the base 16 .

Preferably, the first position sensor 820a and the second position sensor 820b may be spaced apart from each other, and the first position sensor 820a detects the closed state of the sliding door 11 and the second position sensor 820a. The second position sensor 820b may detect an open state of the sliding door 11 .

To this end, the first position sensor 820a is disposed at a position corresponding to the starting point of movement of the sliding door 11 to detect a closed state, and the second position sensor 820b is used to detect the movement of the sliding door 11. The open state of the sliding door 11 can be detected by being disposed at a position where the moving end point or the sliding door 11 past the end point can be sensed.

9 to 13, when a user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010, the projection module 900 transmits text or graphic objects such as "door open" or "open door" to the lower proximity sensor 1020. ) can be projected forward.

Accordingly, a user trying to open the sliding door 11 may be induced to move forward of the lower proximity sensor 1020.

The projection module 900 may include one or more light sources and a driver that displays text or graphic objects or outputs light in a predetermined pattern. For example, the projection module 900 may include an LED, a laser diode, or the like as a light source.

Depending on the embodiment, the projection module 900 may project light of a predetermined color toward the front of the lower proximity sensor 1020 without projecting text or graphic objects.

Depending on the embodiment, when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010, text and graphic objects such as "door open" and "open door" are displayed on the display module 292, and sliding door on ( on) A touch input corresponding to the input may be requested from the user.

When the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 and a touch input through the display module 292 or a user is detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020, the controller 240 controls the sliding door 11 ) may be controlled to open the sliding door motor 810 .

Accordingly, the sliding door 11 can be opened in accordance with the user's intention without a malfunction.

The control unit 240 lowers the speed of the sliding door 11 at a first distance before the sliding door 11 reaches the moving end point, and the sliding door motor at a second distance immediately before reaching the moving end point. The rotation of 810 can be controlled to stop.

In the same way, when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a third distance during the closing operation of the sliding door 11, the controller 240 controls the sliding door motor ( 810) may be controlled to decrease.

In addition, the control unit 240 may stop rotation of the sliding door motor 810 when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a fourth distance shorter than the third distance. You can control it.

Accordingly, it is possible to control the sliding door 11 to open or close smoothly to an accurate position without generating noise due to overswing.

Meanwhile, before the sliding door 11 is closed, it is possible to check whether the humidifying water container 329 is mounted.

When the water container 329 for humidification is installed in an accurate position, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to close the sliding door 11 .

If the humidification water tank 329 of the humidification module 300 is not installed in an accurate position or is tilted, the controller 240 notifies the installation of the humidification water tank 329. can be controlled to output.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13 , the upper proximity sensor 1010 and/or the vision module 210 may detect whether or not a user is approaching.

Depending on the embodiment, the vision module 210 may be set to rise and operate only while the air conditioner is operating. In some cases, according to a product off operation command, the vision module 210 may also descend and be accommodated inside the main body 10 . In this case, it is more preferable to perform human body detection for safety accidents such as prevention of hand pinching by the upper proximity sensor 1010.

Meanwhile, the upper proximity sensor 1010 may be disposed on the display module 292 . Since the upper proximity sensor 1010 is disposed on the display module 292, it is possible to accurately and quickly detect when the user inputs a product off command and the like and does not retreat.

In addition, since circuit elements for the upper proximity sensor 1010 can be mounted on a board provided in the display module 292, circuits and connection lines can be configured more simply.

9 to 13, the circulator door 13 can open and close the discharge port 1200, and the air processed by the air conditioner, such as heat-exchanged air and purified air, can be discharged to the outside. .

The circulator door 13 is opened when the main body operates, so that the circulator module 15 is exposed to the outside and air is discharged through the discharge port 1200, or the circulator module 15 moves forward through the discharge port 1200. And, when the operation ends, it can be closed to close the outlet 1200. A space in which the circulator door 13 is accommodated may be provided on the inside or rear surface of the front panel 11 when the outlet 1200 is opened.

Moving means 850 and 855 for moving the circulator door 13 may be installed on one inner surface of the front panel 11 . For example, a circulator door step motor 850 is provided on the inner surface of the front panel 11, and the circulator door 13 is moved upward or downward according to the rotation of the circulator door step motor 850. It may include a gear member, a rail member 855, and the like.

The circulator door 13 may be configured to be opened by moving upward or downward from the inside of the main body 10 . Since the circulator door 13 is disposed above the front panel 11 of the body 10, it is more preferable in terms of space utilization that the circulator door 13 is configured to move downward and open.

Alternatively, the circulator door 13 may be configured to move backward to the inside of the main body 10 and then move upward or downward to be opened. Even in this case, it is more preferable in terms of space utilization that the circulator door 13 is configured to be opened by moving backward to the inside of the main body 10 and then moving downward.

When the circulator door 13 is opened, the circulator module 15 may discharge air by moving forward in a forward direction toward the front panel 11 . At least a portion of the circulator module 15 may pass through the discharge port 1200 and be exposed to the outside.

In addition, when the operation ends, the circulator module 15 moves backward in the inner direction of the main body 10, and the discharge port can be closed by the movement of the circulator door 13.

Examples of the moving means 850 and 855 for moving the circulator door 13 include a circulator door step motor 850, a pinion supplied with rotational force from the circulator door step motor 850, and a pair of pinions. It may include a shaft, a guide rail 855, etc. disposed at both ends.

The rotation angle of the circulator door step motor 850 may be determined by the number of input pulses. In the case of a step motor that rotates once with 360 input pulses, it can rotate about 1 degree each time one pulse is input.

Stepper motors have the advantage of being inexpensive and easy to accurately control angles (positions).

The driving method of the step motor may be classified into unipolar driving and bipolar driving based on the direction of the current. In addition, the driving method of the step motor may be classified into constant voltage driving, voltage conversion driving, and constant current driving based on the control method of the excitation current.

The present invention is not limited to the driving method of the stepper motor. In addition, the moving means for moving the circulator door 13 may also have a structure different from the above-described example.

The circulator door step motor 850 may be disposed at both ends or one end of the shaft to provide rotational force.

When the circulator door step motor 850 rotates, the circulator door 13 may move along the guide rail 855 .

Meanwhile, when a product off operation command is input, the control unit 240 may check sensing data of the upper proximity sensor 1010 .

The control unit 240 may determine whether or not the human body is approaching with respect to a distance range in which a hand can reach the circulator door 13 and/or the discharge port 1200 by extending a hand.

If there is a user within a predetermined reference distance, the controller 240 may control the sliding step motor 1210 not to start operating or to stop the sliding step motor 1210 in operation.

In addition, the controller 240 may control the audio output unit 291 to output a voice note.

Also, the controller 240 may control to display a warning through the display module 292 .

Thereafter, if the user is not detected within the reference distance, the controller 240 may control the circulator door 13 to move and close.

In addition, prior to the sliding operation of the sliding door 11, when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user within a predetermined distance, the display module control unit 245 notifies the display module 292 that the user retreats. can be controlled to display.

Also, the audio output unit 291 may output a notification recommending that the user retreat.

In addition, the humidification module control unit 246 may reduce the moving speed of the sliding door 11 when the upper proximity sensor 1010 detects a user within a predetermined distance.

14 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a process of opening a sliding door.

Referring to FIG. 14, when a user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 (S1410) and there is a touch input through the display module 292 or a user is detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020 (S1420), the controller ( 240) can be determined as a sliding door on input.

Accordingly, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to rotate (S1430).

More preferably, when a user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 (S1410), the projection module 900 transmits characters and graphic objects such as "door open" and "open door" to the lower proximity sensor 1020. can be projected forward.

Accordingly, a user trying to open the sliding door 11 may be induced to move forward of the lower proximity sensor 1020.

In addition, when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 (S1410), text and graphic objects such as "door open" and "open door" are displayed on the display module 292, and the sliding door is turned on. ), a touch input corresponding to the input may be requested from the user.

The control unit 240, when the user is detected by the upper proximity sensor 1010 (S1410), and a touch input through the display module 292 or a user is detected by the lower proximity sensor 1020 (S1420) , The sliding door motor 810 may be controlled to open the sliding door 11 (S1430).

Accordingly, the sliding door 11 can be opened in accordance with the user's intention without a malfunction.

The controller 240 lowers the speed of the sliding door 11 before the first distance before the sliding door 11 reaches the end point of movement (S1440), and at a second distance immediately before reaching the end point of movement, the control unit 240 The rotation of the sliding door motor 810 may be controlled to stop (S1450).

For example, when the sliding door 11 is detected at a point 3 cm before the second position sensor 820b, the controller 240 may lower the rotational speed (RPM) of the sliding door motor 810. Accordingly, it is possible to lower the speed of the sliding door 11 (S1440).

In addition, when the sliding door 11 is detected at a point 1 cm before the second position sensor 820b, the controller 240 may control the rotation of the sliding door motor 810 to stop (S1450).

Accordingly, it is possible to control the sliding door 11 to open smoothly to an accurate position without generating noise due to overswing.

15 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a process of closing a sliding door.

Referring to FIG. 15 , when a sliding door off input is received through a touch input or a voice input (S1510), the controller 240 checks whether the humidifying water tank 329 is mounted through the hall sensor 830. It can (S1520).

When the water container 329 for humidification is mounted in an accurate position (S1520), the control unit 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to close the sliding door 11 (S1540) .

If the humidification water tank 329 of the humidification module 300 is not installed in the correct position or is tilted (S1520), the control unit 240 sends a notification to guide installation of the humidification water tank 329. It can be controlled to output (S1525).

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the sliding door 11 from being closed when the water container 329 for humidification is not installed.

Meanwhile, when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a third distance, the control unit 240 may control the rotational speed of the sliding door motor 810 to decrease ( S1540).

For example, when the sliding door 11 is detected at a point 3 cm before the first position sensor 820a, the controller 240 may lower the rotational speed (RPM) of the sliding door motor 810. Accordingly, it is possible to lower the speed of the sliding door 11 (S1440).

In addition, the control unit 240 may stop rotation of the sliding door motor 810 when the first position sensor 820a detects the sliding door 11 at a fourth distance shorter than the third distance. It can be controlled (S1550).

For example, when the sliding door 11 is detected at a point 1 cm before the first position sensor 820a, the controller 240 may control the sliding door motor 810 to stop rotating (S1550). ).

Accordingly, it is possible to control the sliding door 11 to close smoothly to an accurate position without generating noise due to overswing.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner and a control method thereof capable of preventing noise, malfunction and safety accidents.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, airflow can be controlled in various and efficient ways.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, various functions such as a voice recognition function and a humidification function can be provided.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the modules can be stored and managed cleanly and safely inside when not in operation.

In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, by operating according to the detected location information of the user, stability and user convenience can be improved.

The air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the configuration and method of the above-described embodiments, but all or part of each of the embodiments can be modified in various ways. It may be selectively combined and configured.

Meanwhile, the method for controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention can be implemented as a processor-readable code on a processor-readable recording medium. The processor-readable recording medium includes all types of recording devices in which data readable by the processor is stored. Examples of the processor-readable recording medium include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc., and also include those implemented in the form of carrier waves such as transmission through the Internet. . In addition, the processor-readable recording medium is distributed in computer systems connected through a network, so that processor-readable codes can be stored and executed in a distributed manner.

In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and the technical field to which the present invention belongs without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims. Of course, various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art, and these modifications should not be individually understood from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention.

1: air conditioner
11: front panel (sliding door)
13: circulator door
15: circulator module
240: control unit
300: humidification module
400: cleaning module

Claims (1)

a main body including a sliding door and a cabinet to which the sliding door is movably coupled;
a water container for humidification exposed to the outside according to the movement of the sliding door;
a proximity sensor unit disposed on the main body and detecting whether or not a user is approaching;
a sliding door position sensor for detecting an open or closed state of the sliding door;
a sliding motor providing power to the sliding door; and
A control unit controlling the sliding door motor so that the sliding door is opened to expose the humidifying water container when a user is detected by the proximity sensor unit;
The air conditioner of claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls rotational speed of the sliding door motor to decrease when the sliding door position sensor detects the sliding door during an opening or closing operation of the sliding door.

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