KR20230151150A - Air conditioner and method for controlling thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

An air conditioner according to an embodiment includes a main body; a first intake port provided in the main body; a first outlet provided in the main body to face the first inlet; a bioaerosol sensor provided adjacent to the first intake port in the main body and detecting bioaerosol contained in the air to generate a detection signal; a communication unit that communicates with an external device providing air quality information; A display provided on the outer surface of the main body; and a control unit that determines the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor and controls the display to display at least one of the bioaerosol concentration or air quality information obtained from the external device.

Description

Air conditioner and its control method {AIR CONDITIONER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THEREOF}

The disclosed invention relates to an air conditioner that purifies indoor air and a control method thereof.

An air conditioner is a device that sucks in polluted air, filters out dust and odor particles contained in the air, purifies the sucked air into clean air, and discharges the purified air back to the outside of the air conditioner.

Recently, the need to remove not only fine dust contained in the air but also bacteria and viruses has increased. Accordingly, research is being conducted on air conditioners that can remove bacteria and viruses.

The disclosed invention provides an air conditioner including a bioaerosol sensor capable of detecting bioaerosol and a control method thereof.

Additionally, the disclosed invention provides an air conditioner that operates using air quality information provided from a bioaerosol sensor and an external device, and a method for controlling the same.

An air conditioner according to an embodiment includes a main body; a first intake port provided in the main body; a first outlet provided in the main body to face the first inlet; a bioaerosol sensor provided adjacent to the first intake port in the main body and detecting bioaerosol contained in the air to generate a detection signal; a communication unit that communicates with an external device providing air quality information; A display provided on the outer surface of the main body; and a control unit that determines the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor and controls the display to display at least one of the bioaerosol concentration or air quality information obtained from the external device. there is.

The controller may control the display to display a predetermined bioaerosol level in response to the bioaerosol concentration.

The control unit obtains indoor air quality information from a first external device provided in the indoor space, acquires outdoor air quality information from a second external device provided in the outdoor space, and determines the indoor pollution level based on the bioaerosol concentration and the indoor air quality information. and the outdoor pollution level can be determined based on the outdoor air quality information.

The controller may control the display to display at least one of a bioaerosol level, the indoor pollution level, or the outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration.

The controller may control the display to provide a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level.

The controller may adjust the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor based on at least indoor temperature or indoor humidity included in the indoor air quality information.

The control unit may perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration or the indoor pollution level.

The control unit performs the bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration being higher than the predetermined reference concentration or the indoor pollution level being higher than the predetermined reference level, and the bioaerosol removal operation is performed at the rotation speed of the blowing fan. It may include control, dust collection operation, and sterilization operation.

The bioaerosol sensor includes a housing; a chamber provided in the housing and into which air containing the bioaerosol is introduced; a light source that irradiates light into the chamber; A spherical mirror that reflects light reflected or scattered by the bioaerosol; an aspherical mirror disposed to face the spherical mirror and coupled with the spherical mirror to form the chamber; and a light receiving unit that detects light emitted through a light exit hole formed in the spherical mirror and generates the detection signal.

The bioaerosol sensor includes a second inlet provided in the housing; a second outlet provided in the housing to face the second inlet; and a fan provided inside the housing to flow air from the second intake port to the second outlet port.

The bioaerosol sensor includes an air curtain forming part provided at a second intake port of the housing, forming a first flow path through which air containing the bioaerosol flows and a second flow path separated from the first flow path through which clean air flows; It may further include.

The air curtain forming unit includes a first air separation pipe forming the first flow path; a second air separation pipe spaced apart from the first air separation pipe and arranged to surround the circumference of the first air separation pipe to form the second flow path; and a filter provided between the first air separation pipe and the second air separation pipe and filtering air flowing into the second flow path.

A method of controlling an air conditioner according to an embodiment includes obtaining air quality information from an external device; Detecting bioaerosol contained in the air by a bioaerosol sensor; determining a bioaerosol concentration based on a detection signal generated by the bioaerosol sensor; It may include controlling a display to display at least one of the bioaerosol concentration or the air quality information.

Controlling the display may include displaying a predetermined bioaerosol level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration.

The air quality information includes indoor air quality information acquired by a first external device provided in the indoor space and outdoor air quality information obtained by a second external device provided in the outdoor space, and the control method of the air conditioner includes the bioaerosol It may further include determining an indoor pollution level based on the concentration and the indoor air quality information, and determining an outdoor pollution level based on the outdoor air quality information.

Controlling the display may include displaying at least one of a bioaerosol level, the indoor pollution level, or the outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration.

Controlling the display may further include providing a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level.

Detecting the bioaerosol may include adjusting the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor based on at least one of indoor temperature or indoor humidity included in the indoor air quality information.

The control method of the air conditioner further includes performing the bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration being higher than a predetermined reference concentration or the indoor pollution level being higher than the predetermined reference level. can do.

The bioaerosol removal operation may include adjustment of the rotation speed of the blowing fan, dust collection operation, and sterilization operation.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can improve air purification ability by detecting bioaerosol contained in the air using a bioaerosol sensor and performing a bioaerosol removal operation.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can efficiently purify indoor air by using air quality information provided from a bioaerosol sensor and an external device.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can accurately detect bioaerosol concentration by using a bioaerosol sensor having a heterogeneous coupling mirror and a sheath flow structure.

1 shows an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.
Figure 2 is a front perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.
Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.
Figure 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.
Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.
Figures 6 and 7 show internal configurations of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.
Figure 8 shows the positional relationship between a spherical mirror and an aspherical mirror when viewed from the outlet of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.
Figure 9 shows an air curtain forming portion provided at the intake port of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.
Figure 10 is a control block diagram of the configurations of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.
Figure 11 is a control block diagram of the configurations of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.
Figure 12 is a flowchart explaining a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart explaining in more detail the control method of the air conditioner described in FIG. 12.

The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and at the time of filing this application, there may be various modifications that can replace the embodiments and drawings in this specification.

The same reference numbers or symbols shown in each drawing of this specification indicate parts or components that perform substantially the same function. The shapes and sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

Throughout this specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the case of being directly connected, but also the case of being indirectly connected, and an indirect connection means being connected through a wireless communication network. Or it includes being connected through another part.

Terms used herein are used to describe embodiments and are not intended to limit and/or limit the disclosed invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification, terms such as “comprise” or “have” are intended to indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but are not intended to indicate the presence of one or more other features. The existence or addition of numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof is not excluded in advance.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as "first", "second", etc., used in this specification may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms refer to one It is used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, a first component may be named a second component, and similarly, the second component may also be named a first component without departing from the scope of the present invention. The term “and/or” includes any of a plurality of related stated items or a combination of a plurality of related stated items.

Additionally, terms such as "~unit", "~unit", "~block", "~member", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one hardware such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) / application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor. there is.

The codes attached to each step are used to identify each step, and these codes do not indicate the order of each step. Each step is performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly stated in the context. It can be.

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

1 shows an air conditioning system according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, the air conditioning system 0 may include an air conditioner 1 and an external device 2. An air conditioner (1) is a device that can make indoor space comfortable. For example, the air conditioner 1 includes an air purifier that purifies indoor air, an air conditioner that controls the temperature and humidity of indoor air, or a ventilation device that can exchange indoor air and outdoor air to ventilate the indoor space. can do.

The air conditioner (1) can communicate with an external device (2). That is, the air conditioner (1) can be connected to the external device (2) wired or wirelessly through a network. The air conditioner (1) can exchange data with the external device (2). For example, the external device 2 may include a first external device installed in an indoor space to obtain indoor air quality information and/or a second external device installed in an outdoor space to obtain outdoor air quality information. The first external device may be an air quality sensor. The second external device may be an air quality sensor and/or an external server.

Additionally, the air conditioner 1 may include a bioaerosol sensor 300 capable of detecting bioaerosol contained in the air. The air conditioner 1 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor 300. The air conditioner 1 may include a display 432 capable of displaying various information, and may display a bioaerosol level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration through the display 432.

The air conditioner 1 can obtain indoor air quality information and outdoor air quality information by communicating with the external device 2. The air conditioner 1 can determine the indoor pollution level from indoor air quality information and the outdoor pollution level from outdoor air quality information. The air conditioner 1 may display at least one of a bioaerosol level, an indoor pollution level, or an outdoor pollution level.

Below, the configuration and operation of the air conditioner 1 will be described in detail. For convenience of explanation, the air conditioner 1 is illustrated as an air purifier.

Figure 2 is a front perspective view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5, an arrow marked with X points from the rear of the air conditioner 1 to the front. The X direction may be referred to as the first direction.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the air conditioner 1 includes a main body 10 forming the exterior, a front panel coupled to the front of the main body 10 to form the front of the air conditioner 1 ( 20), and a rear panel 30 coupled to the rear of the main body 10 to form the rear of the air conditioner 1.

The main body 10 may include a top panel 11 forming the upper surface, a lower panel 12 forming the lower surface, and side panels 13 forming both sides. A front panel 20 and a rear panel 30 may be provided on the front and rear sides of the main body 10, respectively.

The front panel 20 may be formed in a plate shape. The front panel 20 may be provided with an outlet 21 through which purified air is discharged from the inside of the main body 10. The outlet 21 may include an outlet 22. The outlet 22 may be provided on the front of the front panel 20. The outlet 22 may be formed of at least one outlet. The number and location of outlets 22 are not limited to those illustrated. The outlet 22 may be provided to discharge air in various directions. In addition, the front panel 20 is illustrated as being provided separately on the front of the main body 10, but is not limited thereto. The front panel 20 may be formed integrally with the main body 10.

The air conditioner 1 may include a user interface 430. The user interface 430 may include an input unit 431 and a display 432, and may be provided on the outer surface of the main body 10. For example, the user interface 430 may be provided on the front panel 20.

The rear panel 30 may be formed in a plate shape with a size corresponding to the rear of the main body 10. An intake portion 31 for introducing external air may be formed on the rear panel 30. The suction unit 31 may include a plurality of suction ports 32 evenly distributed throughout the rear panel 30. The number and location of the intake ports 32 are not limited to those illustrated. For example, a plurality of suction ports 32 may be provided only in some areas of the suction unit 31.

The suction part 31 of the rear panel 30 may be formed to allow external air to flow from the rear of the main body 10 toward the inside of the main body 10. Air introduced into the main body 10 through the suction part 31 may be discharged through the discharge part 21 of the front panel 20. In other words, air may flow into the rear panel 30 of the main body 10 in the first direction (X) and be discharged from the front panel 20.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the air conditioner 1 includes a filter case 50, a fan case 60, a blowing fan 70, a dust collection device 100, and a sterilization device installed inside the main body 10. (200) and a bioaerosol sensor (300). The air conditioner (1) can remove bioaerosols contained in the air. The bioaerosol removal operation may include a dust collection operation and a sterilization operation. The dust collection device 100 may include a primary filter 110 and a secondary filter 120. The sterilizing device 200 may include an ultraviolet irradiation device 210 and a photocatalytic filter 220.

The filter case 50 may be provided to accommodate the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200. The filter case 50 may be coupled to be fixed inside the main body 10. The dust collection device 100 and the sterilizing device 200 can be fixed inside the main body 10 by the filter case 50 .

The filter case 50 may include a receiving portion 51, an air passage hole 52, and a rib 53. The receiving portion 51 may be formed by opening one side of the filter case 50. The air passage hole 52 may be formed on the other side of the filter case 50 to allow purified air to flow through the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200. The rib 53 forms an air passage hole 52 and may include a rib 53 that prevents the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200 from moving toward the front of the filter case 50 . A plurality of air passage holes 52 may be provided.

A blowing fan 70 may be coupled to the fan case 60. The blowing fan 70 may be coupled to the front of the fan case 60. The fan case 60 may include an opening corresponding to the blowing fan 70 to allow air to flow into the blowing fan 70. The fan case 60 may include a partition 63 to prevent air from flowing through parts other than the opening.

The blowing fan 70 may include a motor and blades. By operating the blowing fan 70, air outside the main body 10 may flow into the main body 10. Additionally, the air introduced into the main body 10 may pass through the dust collection device 100 and the sterilizing device 200 and then be discharged to the outside of the main body 10.

The dust collection device 100 is mounted inside the main body 10 and can remove dust contained in air flowing in through the suction part 31 of the rear panel 30. The sterilizing device 200 includes an ultraviolet irradiation device 210 and a photocatalytic filter 220 and can remove bioaerosols such as allergens, bacteria, and viruses in the air.

The primary filter 110 of the dust collection device 100 can filter dust in the air. The primary filter 110 may be placed adjacent to the suction unit 31. The primary filter 110 may include a pre-filter 111 that collects dust and foreign substances larger than a preset size. The primary filter 110 may include a filter support portion 112 provided to support the pre-filter 111. The pre-filter 111 may be provided to cover the opening formed between the filter supports 112. The primary filter 110 may be disposed rearmost in the first direction (X) within the main body 10 among the components of the dust collection device 100.

The secondary filter 120 of the dust collection device 100 may be provided to collect foreign substances that have passed through the primary filter 110. The secondary filter 120 may include a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air filter) filter that collects fine dust. HEPA filters may be composed of glass fibers. It is not limited to this, and the secondary filter 120 may be provided with various types of filters capable of collecting foreign substances.

Additionally, the dust collector 100 may include an electric dust collector that generates ions to charge the aerosol and collects the charged aerosol. The secondary filter 120 may be replaced with an electrostatic precipitator. When the dust collection device 100 includes an electrostatic precipitator, the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may control the power supply unit to supply power to the electrostatic precipitator.

The secondary filter 120 may be placed in front of the primary filter 110 and may be detachably mounted on the ultraviolet irradiation device 210. The secondary filter 120 may be mounted on the filter receiving portion 211 formed in the ultraviolet ray irradiation device 210. The air conditioner 1 can operate even if the secondary filter 120 is not mounted on the ultraviolet irradiation device 210.

The ultraviolet irradiation device 210 may include a light blocking member 220, a heat sink 230, and an ultraviolet ray generator 240.

The light blocking member 220 prevents ultraviolet rays irradiated from the UV LED 242 of the ultraviolet ray generator 240 toward the first direction (X) from being reflected backward within the main body 10 and being emitted to the outside of the main body 10. It can be arranged to do so. The light blocking member 220 may be made of various materials. For example, the light blocking member 220 may be made of fabric. The light blocking member 220 may be colored black to facilitate light absorption. Additionally, the light blocking member 220 may be made of an elastic material. Alternatively, the light blocking member 220 may be made of a thin metal plate and may include a plurality of holes. The light blocking member 220 may be made of an injection molded material other than fabric or metal.

The light blocking member 220 is shown as being disposed behind the ultraviolet ray generator 240, but is not limited thereto. A light blocking member may be additionally provided in front of the photocatalyst filter 260.

The ultraviolet ray generator 240 may include a UV LED 242 and a substrate 241 on which the UV LED 242 is mounted. A plurality of UV LEDs 242 may be mounted on one substrate 241, and a plurality of substrates 241 may be provided. For example, three UV LEDs 242 may be mounted on one substrate 241 and three substrates 241 may be provided. However, the number of UV LEDs 242 mounted on the board 241 and the number of boards 241 may be changed depending on design specifications.

UV LED 242 can be turned on or off under the control of the control unit 500. The UV LED 242 may emit ultraviolet rays in the first direction (X). UV LED 242 may emit relatively long wavelength UVA. By using UVA, which is less dangerous to the human body than UVC, which has a short wavelength, even if the light blocking member 220 is damaged, the risk due to external exposure to ultraviolet rays can be minimized.

The heat sink 230 may be provided to correspond to the substrate 241. The heat sink 230 and the substrate 241 may extend in a direction intersecting the first direction (X). The heat sink 230 and the substrate 241 may extend in the left and right directions of the main body 10. The heat sink 230 may contact the substrate 241 and absorb heat generated from the substrate 241 and the UV LED 242. The heat sink 230 may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity. The heat sink 230 can quickly absorb heat generated from the substrate 241 and the UV LED 242. Additionally, the heat sink 230 can transfer heat absorbed by contact with air to the air.

The photocatalyst filter 260 may be placed in front of the ultraviolet irradiation device 200. The air in the room where the air conditioner (1) is placed flows into the main body (10) through the suction part (31) arranged at the rear of the main body (10), and the discharge part ( 21) can be discharged. According to this airflow, the air may pass through the primary filter 110, the secondary filter 120, and the ultraviolet irradiation device 200, and then pass through the photocatalyst filter 260.

The photocatalyst filter 260 can induce chemical action in air using a photocatalyst. The photocatalyst filter 260 includes a photocatalyst and can collect bioaerosols such as various allergens, germs, and bacteria present in the air by inducing a chemical reaction using the light energy of the photocatalyst. By promoting chemical action, odor particles in the air can also be decomposed, removed, or collected. The photocatalyst may be prepared to generate active oxygen by reacting with ultraviolet rays. When ultraviolet rays are irradiated to the photocatalyst, active oxygen is generated in the photocatalyst, and the active oxygen can remove bioaerosol.

When the air conditioner 1 operates, air outside the main body 10 flows into the main body 10 and is then discharged to the outside of the main body 10 through the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200. While air passes through the inside of the main body 10, harmful gaseous substances are adsorbed on the photocatalyst filter 260. The UV LED 242 of the ultraviolet irradiation device 200 irradiates ultraviolet rays to the photocatalyst filter 260, thereby decomposing harmful gas components adsorbed on the photocatalyst filter 260. That is, harmful substances adsorbed on the photocatalyst filter 260 can be removed.

The bioaerosol sensor 300 may be provided adjacent to the rear panel 30. In other words, the bioaerosol sensor 300 may be provided adjacent to the first intake port 32 within the main body 10. For example, the bioaerosol sensor 300 may be located between the rear panel 30 and the primary filter 110. The bioaerosol sensor 300 can detect bioaerosol contained in the air flowing in through the suction part 31 of the rear panel 30. The bioaerosol sensor 300 may generate a detection signal corresponding to detection of bioaerosol and transmit the detection signal to the control unit 500. Below, the bioaerosol sensor 300 is described in detail.

Figures 6 and 7 show internal configurations of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment. Figure 8 shows the positional relationship between a spherical mirror and an aspherical mirror when viewed from the outlet of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment. Figure 9 shows an air curtain forming portion provided at the intake port of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.

6, 7, and 8, the bioaerosol sensor 300 includes a housing 310, and inside the housing 310 is a fan 330, a first chamber body 340, and a second chamber body. 350, a light source 360, a light receiving unit 370, and a light absorbing unit 380 may be disposed.

The housing 310 may be provided with a second inlet 311 and a second outlet 312. The second intake port 311 and the second outlet 312 may be arranged to face each other. For example, the second intake port 311 may be arranged to face the rear panel 30 of the main body 10 of the air conditioner 1. The air introduced through the first inlet 32 formed in the rear panel 30 of the main body 10 of the air conditioner 1 is inside the housing 310 through the second inlet 311 provided in the housing 310. may flow into. Air introduced through the second intake port 311 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 310 through the second outlet 312.

An air curtain forming portion 320 may be provided at the second intake port 311 of the housing 310. The air curtain forming part 320 may form a first flow path (F1) through which air containing bioaerosol flows, and a second flow path (F2) through which clean air flows, separated from the first flow path (F1). The first flow path F1 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The second flow path (F2) may be formed in the form of a tube surrounding the first flow path (F1) on the outside of the first flow path (F1). Clean air flowing along the second flow path (F2) may form an 'air curtain'. The bioaerosol sensor 300 is a sheath flow system that causes contaminated air containing bioaerosol to flow along the first flow path (F1), and clean air flows along the second flow path (F2) surrounding the first flow path (F1). By having a (sheath flow) structure, important components of the bioaerosol sensor 300 can be prevented from being contaminated.

A fan 330 may be provided on the second outlet 312 side of the housing 310. The location of the fan 330 is not limited to that illustrated. By operating the fan 330, air may flow from the second intake port 311 to the second outlet 312. That is, air introduced through the second intake port 311 of the housing 310 by the operation of the fan 330 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 310 through the second outlet 312. To distinguish it from the blowing fan 70 provided inside the main body 10 of the air conditioner 1, the blowing fan 70 may be referred to as a 'first blowing fan', and the bioaerosol sensor 300 The fan 330 included in may be referred to as a 'second blowing fan'.

Air sucked through the second intake port 311 may flow into the chamber 313. That is, bioaerosol may flow into the chamber 313. The chamber 313 may be formed by combining the first chamber body 340 and the second chamber body 350. A spherical mirror 341 may be provided on one side of the first chamber body 340. An aspherical mirror 351 may be provided on one side of the second chamber body 350. The spherical mirror 341 and the aspherical mirror 351 may be arranged to face each other. The spherical mirror 341 and the aspherical mirror 342 may be combined to form the chamber 313.

A first light exit hole 342 may be formed in the first chamber body 340 including the spherical mirror 341. The first light exit port 342 may be provided as a hole penetrating the spherical mirror 341 and the first chamber body 340. For example, the first light exit hole 342 may be provided as a circular hole. The first light exit port 342 may be open toward the light receiving unit 370 . The first light exit hole 342 may be arranged perpendicular to the light entrance hole 352. Through the first light exit port 342, light reflected or scattered by the bioaerosol may be incident on the light receiving unit 370. In other words, scattered light and fluorescence can be generated by bioaerosol.

The spherical mirror 341 may reflect scattered light and fluorescence generated by bioaerosol toward the first focus 351_f1 of the aspherical mirror 351. The aspherical mirror 351 may reflect scattered light and fluorescence passing through the first focal point 351_f1 to the second focal point 351_f2 of the aspherical mirror 351. Scattered light and fluorescence may be collected at the second focus 351_f2 of the aspherical mirror 351 through the first light exit hole 342 and may be incident on the light receiving unit 370.

A light entrance 352 and a second light exit opening 353 may be formed in the second chamber body 350 including the aspherical mirror 351. The light entrance hole 352 may be open toward the light source 360, and the second light exit hole 353 may be open toward the light absorption portion 380. The second light exit opening 353 may be formed to face the light entrance opening 352. Light that does not collide with the bioaerosol may be incident on the light absorption unit 380 through the second light exit port 353.

Additionally, air holes may be provided in the second chamber body 350 to allow air to pass through. The first air hole of the second chamber body 350 may be connected and/or combined with the second intake port 311 of the housing 310. The second air hole of the second chamber body 350 may be connected and/or combined with the second outlet 312 of the housing 310. The first air hole and the second air hole may be provided in a shape (eg, circular) corresponding to the second inlet 311 and the second outlet 312, respectively.

The light source 360 may radiate light into the chamber 313. The light emitted by the light source 360 may be an ultraviolet beam. Light emitted from the light source 360 may enter the inside of the chamber 313 through the light entrance 352. Light incident inside the chamber 313 may be reflected or scattered by bioaerosol.

The light receiving unit 370 may detect light emitted through the first light exit hole 342 and generate a detection signal. The light receiving unit 370 can detect scattered light and fluorescence generated by bioaerosol. The light receiving unit 370 may include a photodiode for detecting scattered light and a photomultiplier tube for detecting fluorescence.

The light receiving unit 370 may transmit a first detection signal corresponding to detection of scattered light and a second detection signal corresponding to detection of fluorescence to the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1. The control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the light receiving unit 370.

The light absorption unit 380 may absorb light that does not collide with the bioaerosol. The light absorption unit 380 is arranged to face the light source 360 and may be located on the opposite side of the light source 360 with the chamber 313 as the center. By providing the light absorption unit 380, light that does not collide with the bioaerosol can be prevented from entering the light reception unit 370.

Referring to FIG. 9, the air curtain forming part 320 may include a first air separation pipe 321, a second air separation pipe 322, and a filter 323. The first air separation pipe 321 may form a first flow path F1. For example, the first air separation pipe 321 may have a funnel shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first air separation pipe 321 may be provided in a tube shape with a constant diameter.

The second air separation pipe 322 may be spaced apart from the first air separation pipe 321 and may be arranged to surround the circumference of the first air separation pipe 321 to form a second flow path F2. The second flow path (F2) may be formed in the form of a tube surrounding the first flow path (F1) on the outside of the first flow path (F1). In order to fix the first air separation pipe 321, a connection part protruding from the first air separation pipe 321 and connected to the second air separation pipe 322 may be provided. The first diameter of the first air separation pipe 321 is smaller than the second diameter of the second air separation pipe 322. The second air separation pipe 322 may be provided to be coupled to the housing 310 or may be formed integrally with the housing 310.

The filter 323 is provided between the first air separation pipe 321 and the second air separation pipe 322 and can filter the air flowing into the second flow path F2. Therefore, clean air can flow between the first air separation pipe 321 and the second air separation pipe 322. In other words, clean air flowing along the second flow path F2 can form an 'air curtain'.

The bioaerosol sensor 300 is a sheath flow system that causes contaminated air containing bioaerosol to flow along the first flow path (F1), and clean air flows along the second flow path (F2) surrounding the first flow path (F1). By having a (sheath flow) structure, it is possible to prevent important components of the bioaerosol sensor 300, such as the spherical mirror 341, the aspherical mirror 342, the light source 360, and the light receiving unit 370, from being contaminated. In other words, contaminated air containing bioaerosols does not contact the spherical mirror 341 and the aspherical mirror 342 forming the chamber 342. Additionally, contaminated air does not contact the light source 360 and the light receiving unit 370 located outside the chamber 342. Therefore, even if the bioaerosol sensor 300 is used for a long period of time, the bioaerosol detection ability can be maintained normally.

Figure 10 is a control block diagram of the configurations of an air conditioner according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, the air conditioner 1 includes a blower fan 70, a dust collection device 100, a sterilization device 200, a bioaerosol sensor 300, a user interface 430, a communication unit 440, and a control unit. It may include (500). Additionally, the air conditioner 1 may further include a temperature sensor 410 and a humidity sensor 420. The control unit 500 may be electrically connected to the components of the air conditioner 1 and control each component. The components of the air conditioner 1 are not limited to those illustrated. Some of the components of the air conditioner 1 described above may be omitted, or other components may be added.

The blowing fan 70 may include a motor and blades. By operating the blowing fan 70, air outside the main body 10 may flow into the main body 10. Additionally, the air introduced into the main body 10 may pass through the dust collection device 100 and the sterilizing device 200 and then be discharged to the outside of the main body 10.

The dust collection device 100 is mounted inside the main body 10 and can remove dust contained in air flowing in through the suction part 31 of the rear panel 30. The dust collector 100 may include an electric dust collector that generates ions to charge the aerosol and collects the charged aerosol. When the dust collector 100 is implemented as an electric dust collector, the control unit 500 may control a power supply unit (not shown) to supply power to the dust collector 100.

The sterilizing device 200 includes an ultraviolet irradiation device 210 and a photocatalytic filter 220 and can remove bioaerosols such as allergens, bacteria, and viruses in the air. For sterilization operation, the controller 500 may control a power supply unit (not shown) to supply power to the sterilization device 200.

The bioaerosol sensor 300 can detect bioaerosol contained in the air flowing in through the suction part 31 of the rear panel 30. The bioaerosol sensor 300 may generate a detection signal corresponding to detection of bioaerosol and transmit the detection signal to the control unit 500. When the air conditioner 1 is turned on, the bioaerosol sensor 300 can operate.

The temperature sensor 410 can measure indoor temperature. The temperature sensor 410 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the measured indoor temperature to the control unit 500. The humidity sensor 420 can measure indoor humidity. The humidity sensor 420 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the measured indoor humidity to the control unit 500. Indoor humidity may mean relative humidity. Alternatively, the air conditioner 1 may obtain indoor air quality information including indoor temperature and indoor humidity from the external device 2. In this case, the temperature sensor 410 and humidity sensor 420 may be omitted from the air conditioner 1.

The user interface 430 may include an input unit 431 and a display 432. The input unit 431 may include various buttons, dials, and/or touch displays. The input unit 431 can obtain various user inputs regarding the operation of the air conditioner (1). The input unit 431 may output an electrical signal (voltage or current) corresponding to the user input to the control unit 500 of the air conditioner (1). For example, a bioaerosol removal mode may be selected through user interface 430. The control unit 500 may execute a bioaerosol removal operation based on the selection of the bioaerosol removal mode.

The display 432 may be provided on the outer surface of the main body 10. The display 432 may display information regarding the status and/or operation of the air conditioner 1. The display 432 may display information input by the user or information provided to the user on various screens. The display 432 may display information related to the operation of the air conditioner 1 as at least one of an image or text. The display 432 may display a graphic user interface (GUI) that enables control of the air conditioner 1. That is, the display 432 can display a UI element (User Interface Element) such as an icon.

The display 432 may include various types of display panels. For example, the display 432 may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD Panel), a light emitting diode panel (LED Panel), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED Panel), Alternatively, it may include a micro LED panel.

The display 432 may be implemented as a touch display. The touch display may include a display panel that displays an image and a touch panel that receives touch input. The display panel can convert image data received from the control unit 500 into optical signals that can be viewed by the user. The touch panel can identify the user's touch input and provide an electrical signal corresponding to the received touch input to the control unit 500. When the display 432 is provided as a touch display, the input unit 431 may not be provided.

The user interface 430 may further include a microphone for acquiring user voice input and/or a speaker for outputting sound.

The communication unit 440 can communicate with the external device 2. For example, the external device 2 may include an air quality sensor installed in an indoor space or an outdoor space and/or a server that provides outdoor air quality information. The communication unit 440 may include a wired communication module and/or a wireless communication module for communicating with the external device 2. The wired communication module can communicate with the external device 2 through a wide area network such as the Internet, and the wireless communication module can communicate with the external device 2 through an access point connected to the wide area network.

The control unit 500 may include a processor 510 and a memory 520. The processor 510 may generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the integrated air conditioning system 2 based on instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in the memory 520. The processor 510 is hardware and may include a logic circuit and an operation circuit. The processor 510 may process data according to programs and/or instructions provided from the memory 520 and generate control signals according to the processing results. The processor 510 and memory 520 may be implemented as one control circuit or as a plurality of circuits.

The memory 520 can remember/store various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner 1. The memory 520 may store instructions, applications, data, and/or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner 1. The memory 520 may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory 520 includes non-volatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), or Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data. It can be included.

The control unit 500 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor 300. The controller 500 may control the display 432 to display at least one of bioaerosol concentration or air quality information obtained from the external device 2. For example, the controller 500 may control the display 432 to display a predetermined bioaerosol level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration.

Additionally, the controller 500 may determine whether to perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on at least one of bioaerosol concentration or air quality information obtained from the external device 2.

The bioaerosol removal operation may include adjustment of the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70, dust collection operation, and sterilization operation. In other words, the control unit 500 can adjust the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 and operate the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200 based on at least one of bioaerosol concentration or air quality information.

For example, the control unit 500 may perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the fact that the bioaerosol concentration is greater than a predetermined reference concentration. To perform the bioaerosol removal operation, the control unit 500 can adjust the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 and operate the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200. As the concentration of bioaerosol increases, the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 may increase.

The control unit 500 may control the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 at a predetermined basic speed based on whether the bioaerosol concentration is less than or equal to a predetermined reference concentration. The predetermined default speed may be the lowest speed. Additionally, when the bioaerosol concentration is less than or equal to a predetermined reference concentration, the control unit 500 may stop the operation of the sterilizing device 200.

The control unit 500 may obtain indoor air quality information from a first external device provided in the indoor space through the communication unit 440. The control unit 500 may obtain outdoor air quality information from a second external device provided in the outdoor space through the communication unit 400. The controller 500 may determine the indoor pollution level based on bioaerosol concentration and the indoor air quality information. Additionally, the controller 500 may determine the outdoor pollution level based on outdoor air quality information.

The controller 500 may determine whether to perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the indoor pollution level. For example, the controller 500 may perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the indoor pollution level being higher than a predetermined reference level. As the indoor pollution level increases, the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 may increase.

The control unit 500 may control the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 at a predetermined basic speed based on whether the indoor pollution level is lower than or equal to a predetermined reference level. The predetermined default speed may be the lowest speed. Additionally, when the indoor contamination level is lower than or equal to a predetermined reference level, the control unit 500 may stop the operation of the sterilizing device 200.

The controller 500 may control the display 432 to display at least one of a bioaerosol level, an indoor pollution level, or an outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration. Bioaerosol concentration, indoor pollution level, and outdoor pollution level can each be expressed numerically. The controller 500 may control the display 432 to provide a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level. In this case, the indoor pollution level may be higher than the reference level. Conversely, the controller 500 may control the display 432 to provide a ventilation prohibition notification based on whether the indoor pollution level is lower than or equal to the outdoor pollution level.

The controller 500 may adjust the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 based on at least one of indoor temperature or indoor humidity. For example, the activity of bioaerosols may increase in summer when indoor temperature and indoor humidity are relatively high. When the indoor temperature is higher than the reference temperature and/or when the indoor humidity is higher than the reference humidity, the controller 500 may increase the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300. As the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 increases, the detection ability of bioaerosol may be improved.

Figure 11 is a control block diagram of the configurations of a bioaerosol sensor according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, the bioaerosol sensor 300 may include a fan 330, a light source 360, a light receiving unit 370, and a control unit 390. The control unit 390 may be electrically connected to the fan 330, the light source 360, and the light receiving unit 370, and may control each.

To distinguish from the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1, the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may be referred to as the first control unit, and the control unit 390 of the bioaerosol sensor 300 may be referred to as the first control unit. 2 It can be called the control unit. The control unit 390 of the bioaerosol sensor 300 may also include a processor and memory. The first control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may transmit a furnace control signal to the second control unit 390 of the bioaerosol sensor 300, and the second control unit 390 may control the fan 330 according to the control signal. ), the light source 360 and the light receiving unit 370 can be operated.

The fan 330 is illustrated as being disposed on the second outlet 312 side of the housing 310, but the location of the fan 330 is not limited to the example. By operating the fan 330, air may flow from the second intake port 311 to the second outlet 312.

The light source 360 may radiate light into the chamber 313. The light emitted by the light source 360 may be an ultraviolet beam. Light emitted from the light source 360 may enter the inside of the chamber 313 through the light entrance 352. Light incident inside the chamber 313 may be reflected or scattered by bioaerosol. The control unit 390 of the bioaerosol sensor 300 can adjust the intensity of light emitted from the light source 360.

The light receiving unit 370 may detect light emitted through the first light exit hole 342 and generate a detection signal. The light receiving unit 370 can detect scattered light and fluorescence generated by bioaerosol. The light receiving unit 370 may include a photodiode for detecting scattered light and a photomultiplier tube for detecting fluorescence.

The light receiving unit 370 may transmit a first detection signal corresponding to detection of scattered light and a second detection signal corresponding to detection of fluorescence to the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1. The control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the light receiving unit 370.

The sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 may be adjusted based on at least one of indoor temperature or indoor humidity. Adjustment of sensitivity may include adjusting the rotation speed of the fan 330, adjusting the intensity of light emitted by the light source 360, and/or adjusting the reactivity of the light receiving unit 370.

Figure 12 is a flowchart explaining a control method of an air conditioner according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart explaining in more detail the control method of the air conditioner described in FIG. 12.

Referring to FIG. 12, bioaerosol contained in the air can be detected by the bioaerosol sensor 300 (1101). The bioaerosol sensor 300 may generate a detection signal corresponding to the detection of bioaerosol to the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 and transmit the detection signal to the control unit 500. The control unit 500 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor 300. Additionally, the controller 500 may control the display 432 of the user interface 430 to display the bioaerosol concentration (1102). For example, the controller 500 may control the display 432 to display a predetermined bioaerosol level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration.

Additionally, the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may determine whether the bioaerosol concentration is greater than a predetermined reference concentration (1103). Based on the fact that the bioaerosol concentration is less than or equal to a predetermined reference concentration, the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 can be controlled to a predetermined basic speed (1104). The predetermined default speed may be the lowest speed. Additionally, when the bioaerosol concentration is less than or equal to a predetermined reference concentration, the control unit 500 may stop the operation of the sterilizing device 200.

The control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the fact that the bioaerosol concentration is greater than a predetermined reference concentration. To perform the bioaerosol removal operation, the control unit 500 can adjust the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 and operate the dust collection device 100 and the sterilization device 200. As the concentration of bioaerosol increases, the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 may increase.

Referring to FIG. 13, the control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 can obtain indoor air quality information and outdoor air quality information through the communication unit 440. Indoor air quality information may be obtained from a first external device provided in the indoor space. Outdoor air quality information may be obtained from a second external device provided in the outdoor space.

The control unit 500 of the air conditioner 1 may adjust the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 based on indoor air quality information (1202). For example, the controller 500 may adjust the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 based on at least one of indoor temperature or indoor humidity. When the indoor temperature is higher than the reference temperature and/or when the indoor humidity is higher than the reference humidity, the controller 500 may increase the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300. As the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor 300 increases, the detection ability of bioaerosol may be improved.

The control unit 500 may determine the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor 300. The controller 500 may determine the indoor pollution level based on the bioaerosol concentration and the indoor air quality information (1203). The controller 500 may determine whether to perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the indoor pollution level. Additionally, the controller 500 may control the display 432 to display at least one of a bioaerosol level, an indoor pollution level, or an outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration (1204). Bioaerosol concentration, indoor pollution level, and outdoor pollution level can each be expressed numerically.

The controller 500 may determine whether the indoor pollution level is higher than a predetermined reference level (1205). The control unit 500 may control the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 to a predetermined basic speed based on whether the indoor pollution level is lower than or equal to the predetermined reference level (1206). The predetermined default speed may be the lowest speed. Additionally, when the indoor contamination level is lower than or equal to a predetermined reference level, the control unit 500 may stop the operation of the sterilizing device 200.

Additionally, the control unit 500 may determine whether the indoor pollution level is higher than the outdoor pollution level (1207). The controller 500 may control the display 432 to provide a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level (1208). The controller 500 may control the display 432 to provide a ventilation prohibition notification based on whether the indoor pollution level is lower than or equal to the outdoor pollution level (1210). The control unit 500 may perform a bioaerosol removal operation based on the indoor pollution level being higher than a predetermined reference level (1209). As the indoor pollution level increases, the rotation speed of the blowing fan 70 may increase. In this case, the indoor pollution level may be higher than the reference level.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can improve air purification ability by detecting bioaerosol contained in the air using a bioaerosol sensor and performing a bioaerosol removal operation.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can efficiently purify indoor air by using air quality information provided from a bioaerosol sensor and an external device.

The disclosed air conditioner and its control method can accurately detect bioaerosol concentration by using a bioaerosol sensor having a heterogeneous coupling mirror and a sheath flow structure.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. Instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may create program modules to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments.

A storage medium that can be read by a device may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory storage medium' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves). This term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in a storage medium and temporary storage media. It does not distinguish between cases where it is stored as . For example, a 'non-transitory storage medium' may include a buffer where data is temporarily stored.

Methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided and included in a computer program product. Computer program products are commodities and can be traded between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or through an application store (e.g. Play StoreTM) or on two user devices (e.g. It can be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between smartphones) or online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) is stored on a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server. It can be temporarily stored or created temporarily.

As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings. A person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention can be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical idea or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

1: Air conditioner
100: Dust collection device
200: Sterilization device
300: Bioaerosol sensor

Claims (20)

main body;
a first intake port provided in the main body;
a first outlet provided in the main body to face the first inlet;
a bioaerosol sensor provided adjacent to the first intake port in the main body and detecting bioaerosol contained in the air to generate a detection signal;
a communication unit that communicates with an external device providing air quality information;
A display provided on the outer surface of the main body; and
An air conditioning unit comprising a control unit that determines the bioaerosol concentration based on the detection signal transmitted from the bioaerosol sensor and controls the display to display at least one of the bioaerosol concentration or air quality information obtained from the external device. energy. According to paragraph 1,
The control unit
An air conditioner that controls the display to display a predetermined bioaerosol level in response to the bioaerosol concentration. According to paragraph 1,
The control unit
Obtaining indoor air quality information from a first external device provided in the indoor space, and obtaining outdoor air quality information from a second external device provided in the outdoor space,
An air conditioner that determines an indoor pollution level based on the bioaerosol concentration and the indoor air quality information, and determines an outdoor pollution level based on the outdoor air quality information. According to paragraph 3,
The control unit
An air conditioner that controls the display to display at least one of a bioaerosol level, the indoor pollution level, or the outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration. According to paragraph 3,
The control unit
An air conditioner that controls the display to provide a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level. According to paragraph 3,
The control unit
An air conditioner that adjusts the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor based on at least indoor temperature or indoor humidity included in the indoor air quality information. According to paragraph 3,
The control unit
An air conditioner that performs a bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration or the indoor pollution level. In clause 7,
The control unit
Performing the bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration being higher than a predetermined reference concentration or the indoor pollution level being higher than a predetermined reference level,
The bioaerosol removal operation is an air conditioner including adjustment of the rotation speed of the blowing fan, dust collection operation, and sterilization operation. According to paragraph 1,
The bioaerosol sensor is
housing;
a chamber provided in the housing and into which air containing the bioaerosol is introduced;
a light source that irradiates light into the chamber;
A spherical mirror that reflects light reflected or scattered by the bioaerosol;
an aspherical mirror disposed to face the spherical mirror and coupled with the spherical mirror to form the chamber; and
An air conditioner comprising a light receiving unit that detects light emitted through a light exit hole formed in the spherical mirror and generates the detection signal. According to clause 9,
The bioaerosol sensor is
a second intake port provided in the housing;
a second outlet provided in the housing to face the second inlet; and
An air conditioner further comprising a fan provided inside the housing to flow air from the second intake port to the second outlet. According to clause 10,
The bioaerosol sensor is
Air further comprising: an air curtain forming portion provided at the second intake port of the housing, forming a first flow path through which air containing the bioaerosol flows and a second flow path separated from the first flow path through which clean air flows; Harmonizer. According to clause 11,
The air curtain forming part
a first air separation pipe forming the first flow path;
a second air separation pipe spaced apart from the first air separation pipe and arranged to surround the circumference of the first air separation pipe to form the second flow path; and
An air conditioner comprising: a filter provided between the first air separation pipe and the second air separation pipe, and filtering air flowing into the second flow path. In an air conditioner capable of communicating with an external device,
Obtain air quality information from the external device;
Detecting bioaerosol contained in the air by a bioaerosol sensor;
determining a bioaerosol concentration based on a detection signal generated by the bioaerosol sensor;
Controlling a display to display at least one of the bioaerosol concentration or the air quality information. According to clause 13,
Controlling the display is
A control method of an air conditioner comprising: displaying a predetermined bioaerosol level in response to the bioaerosol concentration. According to clause 13,
The air quality information above is
Contains indoor air quality information obtained by a first external device provided in the indoor space and outdoor air quality information obtained by a second external device provided in the outdoor space,
Determining an indoor pollution level based on the bioaerosol concentration and the indoor air quality information, and determining an outdoor pollution level based on the outdoor air quality information. According to clause 15,
Controlling the display is
A control method of an air conditioner comprising: displaying at least one of a bioaerosol level, the indoor pollution level, or the outdoor pollution level corresponding to the bioaerosol concentration. According to clause 15,
Controlling the display is
A method of controlling an air conditioner further comprising providing a ventilation notification based on the indoor pollution level being higher than the outdoor pollution level. According to clause 15,
Detecting the bioaerosol is
A method of controlling an air conditioner comprising: adjusting the sensitivity of the bioaerosol sensor based on at least one of indoor temperature or indoor humidity included in the indoor air quality information. According to clause 15,
The control method of an air conditioner further comprising performing the bioaerosol removal operation based on the bioaerosol concentration being higher than a predetermined reference concentration or the indoor pollution level being higher than the predetermined reference level. According to clause 19,
The bioaerosol removal operation is
A control method of an air conditioner including control of the rotation speed of a blowing fan, dust collection operation, and sterilization operation.

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