WO2007097515A2

WO2007097515A2 - Displaying method of picture for air conditioner

Info

Publication number: WO2007097515A2
Application number: PCT/KR2006/005481
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sang-Bae Park; Dong-Jin Kim; Choong-Hee Lee
Original assignee: Lg Electronics Inc.
Priority date: 2006-02-27
Filing date: 2006-12-14
Publication date: 2007-08-30
Also published as: WO2007097515A3

Abstract

Disclosed is a displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner. In the display method of a picture for an air conditioner, a plurality of information with respect to the air conditioner is displayed on the display device (120). At least one of the plurality of information is processed as a predetermined pattern.

Description

DISPLAYING METHOD OF PICTURE FOR AIR

CONDITIONER

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to an air conditioner, more particularly to a displaying method of picture for an air conditioner. Background Art

[2] Generally, an air conditioner is installed in an interior space such as an office and a home or on a side wall thereof to function as a cooling and heating device for cooling and heating the interior space and forms a series of refrigeration cycles each of which includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator.

[3] More particularly, the air conditioner includes an outdoor unit (also referred to as

Outdoor side' or 'heat radiating side') mainly installed outside a room and an indoor unit (also referred to as 'indoor side' or 'heat absorbing side') mainly installed in the interior of a building. The condenser (outdoor heat exchanger) and the compressor are installed in the outdoor unit and the evaporator (indoor heat exchanger) is installed in the indoor unit.

[4] Further, as well known, the air conditioner can be classified into a separation type air conditioner in which the outdoor unit and the indoor unit is separately installed and an integration type air conditioner in which the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are integrally installed.

[5] FIG. 1 schematically shows the appearance of an indoor unit of a conventional separation type air conditioner.

[6] As shown in FIG. 1, the separation type air conditioner includes an indoor unit 10 and an outdoor unit (not shown) separated from the indoor unit 10 and a refrigerant pipe (not shown) is installed between the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit (not shown) so as to communicate the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit.

[7] The side and rear appearance of the indoor unit 10 is formed by a cabinet 20 extending long upward and downward. A base 22 is provided at a lower portion of the cabinet 20 and a front surface panel 24 forming the front appearance of the indoor unit 10 is installed at an upper portion of the tip end of the base.

[8] A display unit 30 displaying the operation of the air conditioner is provided at a central portion of the front surface panel 24 and a button section 32 in which various buttons for operating the air conditioner is provided on a side surface of the display unit 30.

[9] The display unit 30 generally includes LEDs. Therefore, the display unit 30 is turned on when the air conditioner is operated to display the operation state of the air conditioner. Further, if the air conditioner is turned off, the display unit also turned off.

[10] More particularly, as shown in the figure, the display unit 30 displays the wind direction and the strength of the air conditioner, and also displays the interior temperature and the desired temperature of the air conditioner. Namely, the display unit displays the state of the air conditioner, which is set by a user, by using the LEDs.

[11] However, the conventional technology has the following disadvantages.

[12] Since the conventional display unit simply has a function for displaying only the operation state of the air conditioner, the button section should be separately provided to control the operation of the air conditioner.

[13] Therefore, the appearance of the entire air conditioner is not so smooth that the air conditioner can cause dissatisfaction in the aspect of sensibility.

[14] Further, the conventional method cannot concretely display information with respect to an operation state of the air conditioner.

[15] Moreover, in the conventional air conditioner, a size of the display unit is limited within a predetermined value, the display unit cannot display all information associated with an operation of the air conditioner.

[16] In addition, even if an operation command for the air conditioner is not applied to the display unit for a predetermined time, the display unit can not be inverted into a power saving state. Therefore, it accelerates a degradation of the display unit. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[17] Accordingly, the present invention has been developed in order to solve the above- mentioned problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner having a touch screen, which integrates a button function and a display function into one function.

[18] It is a second object of the present invention is to provide a method for displaying an operation state of an air conditioner and for continuously and periodically upgraded information in real time.

[19] It is a third object of the present invention is to provided a method for displaying various information associated with an operation of an air conditioner on a display device with a limited size.

[20] It is a fourth object of the present invention is to provide a method of converting a display device displaying an operation state of an air conditioner into a stop mode screen when an external input does not occur for a predetermined time during an operation of the air conditioner and a displaying method of the stop mode screen on the display device. [21] It is a fifth object of the present invention is to provide a displaying method of a display device mounted at an air conditioner capable of reducing unnecessary power consumption and preventing a degradation of the display device from being accelerated by controlling the display device to maintain the lowest brightness when the display device enters into a stop mode. Technical Solution

[22] In order to accomplish this object, there is provided a displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner having a display device, comprising the steps of: (i) displaying a plurality of information with respect to the air conditioner on the display device; and (ii) processing at least one of the plurality of information as a predetermined pattern.

[23] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner having a display device, comprising the steps of: (a) displaying information with respect to an operation state of the air conditioner on the display device as an image and a character of various patterns; and (b) periodically a plurality of information changing in real time among the information displayed as the image and the character of various patterns.

[24] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner, comprising the step of: sequentially displaying a plurality of information changing in real time during an operation of the air conditioner.

[25] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner, comprising the steps of: (J) displaying a stop mode set screen for setting a stop mode screen on a display device; (II) selecting one from a plurality of stop mode screens displayed on the stop mode set screen; and (HI) storing the selected stop mode screen.

[26] As mentioned above, the present provides a displaying method of picture for an air conditioner with a touch screen.

[27] The air conditioner with the touch screen has a graceful appearance and removes a use of unnecessary buttons.

[28] Furthermore, the present invention may display more information in a display section with a limited size and rapid express upgraded information by periodically replacing only a part of data information (including image information) in a specific mode screen state.

[29] Moreover, a user can variously select a stop mode screen displayed at an entry into a stop mode during an operation of the air conditioner using a stop mode set screen according to his selection. [30] The present invention controls a screen of the display device to maintain the lowest brightness at an entry into the stop mode in order to obtain power saving effects. [31] Further, the present invention controls a screen of the display device to maintain the lowest brightness at an entry into the stop mode in order to prevent a degradation of the display device, that leads to an extension of a life of the display device. [32] In addition, since various additional functions can be used besides a main function such as air condition, it is expected that a use convenience of the air conditioner and a customer's interest are improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings [33] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [34] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a indoor unit of a conventional DDD air conditioner; [35] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [36] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an open state of a front panel of a indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [37] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control system of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [38] FIG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating an operation mode of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [39] FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of an air conditioner start menu screen displayed on a touch screen;

[40] FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of an air conditioner mode screen for illustrating a sliding text scheme according to an embodiment of the present invention; [41] FIG. 8 is a view showing an example of an air cleaning operation mode screen according to an embodiment of the present invention; [42] FIG. 9 is a view showing an example of an information center mode screen according to an embodiment of the present invention; [43] FIG. 10 is a flow chart for illustrating an operation of a mode screen to which a sliding text manner according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied; [44] FIG. 11 is a block diagram for illustrating an operation mode of the air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; [45] FIG. 12 is a block flow chart of another example for illustrating an operation mode of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention; [46] FIG. 13 a view showing another example of an air conditioner start menu screen display on a touch screen;

[47] FlG. 14 is a view showing an example of an air conditioner operation mode screen;

[48] FlG. 15 is a view showing an example of an operation detail control screen;

[49] FlG. 16 is a view showing the air conditioner operation mode screen displayed as an animation of various patterns; [50] FlG. 17 is a view showing various patterns of the air conditioner operation mode screen displayed as a motion operation animation of various patterns; [51] FlG. 18 is a view showing an example of a screen state when a remote controller signal is suddenly received;

[52] FlG. 19 is a view showing an example of an information center mode screen;

[53] FlG. 20 is a view showing a main screen of an environmental set screen;

[54] FlG. 21 is a view showing an example of a stop mode set screen; and

[55] FlG. 22 is a view showing an example of a stop mode screen.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [56] Hereinafter, the preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [57] FlG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. [58] As shown in FlG. 2, the air conditioner includes indoor unit 100 and outdoor unit

(not shown). A front panel 110 is long formed at a front surface of the indoor unit 100 up and down, and defines a front surface external appearance thereof. [59] Further, hinges 112 are formed at upper and lower right ends of the front panel 110 and serves as a center of a rotation of the front panel 110. Accordingly, the front panel

110 rotates in the counter-clock wise direction on a right end and is opened. [60] A touch screen 120 is formed at a upper center portion of the front panel 110 so that a user can easily operate the touch screen 120 with fingers. [61] The touch screen 120 is installed at a display device 256. A display unit and a plurality of operation button sections are displayed on the display section 256. The display unit displays information with respect to an operation state and an operation execution state of the air conditioner. The plurality of operation buttons are used to substantially control and set an operation of the air conditioner. [62] A remote controller receiver 140 is further provided at a lower side of the touch screen 120. The remote controller receiver 140 receives a signal of a remote controller. [63] FlG. 3 is a perspective view showing an open state of a front panel of a indoor unit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FlG. 3, the front panel 110 rotates on the hinges 112 and is opened. [64] As shown in FlG. 3, a display device 150 is installed at a rear surface of the front panel 110.

[65] The display device 150 includes a USB mounting section 152a and an SD mounting section 152b. A USB memory 160a or an SD card 160a are selectively mounted at the USB mounting section 152a and the SD mounting section 152b. Accordingly, the display device 150 may easily take picture files such as external data through the USB memory 160a or the SD card 160a.

[66] Besides the USB memory 160a or the SD card 160a, a transmission of the data can be achieved through various other mobile storage media, and data downloading over Internet can be performed.

[67] Furthermore, a speaker output terminal 259a is formed at the display device 150 to be exposed to an outside. The speaker output terminal 259a functions to transfer a predetermined sound generated during an operation of the display device 150 to an external speaker (not shown). Accordingly, a user may enjoy a sound outputted during a drive of the display device 150 using a cable, which connects the speaker output terminal 259a to the external speaker (not shown).

[68] On the other hand, a through hole 300 and a speaker hole 260 are formed at a cover of the display device 150. The through hole 300 discharges heat of internal electronic components. The speaker hole 260 guides an output of a small speaker (rated power of approximately IW), which is mounted in the display device 150.

[69] On the other hand, an air cleaner 170 is further provided at an inner lower portion of the indoor unit 100, and filters and cleans impurities in the air. The air cleaner 170 includes a plurality of filters, and filters dust and odor in the air.

[70] Moreover, a main microcomputer 200 is connected to a display controller 150 at a upper side of the air cleaner 170 and controls a total operation of an air conditioner.

[71] A pressure sensor 131 and a humidity sensor 132 are installed at a upper side of the main microcomputer 200.

[72] The pressure sensor 131 senses a pressure change of an indoor and expect a change of a weather based on the sensed pressure change of the indoor. The pressure sensor 132 measures a humidity of the indoor, which is air-cleaned.

[73] The main microcomputer 200 processes and transmits a sensed signal of the pressure sensor 131 and a sensed signal of the humidity sensor 132 to the display controller 150, so that the display controller 150 displays the sensed signals as characters, namely, texts.

[74] Although it is not shown, a plurality of parts (heat exchanger and the like) for air condition such as heating or cooling are provided inside the indoor unit 100. Since the plurality of parts are well known, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[75] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control system of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. [76] As shown in FlG. 4, the air conditioner includes a main microcomputer 200 and a display controller 250. The main microcomputer 200 controls a total operation of the air conditioner. The display controller 250 provides a functional operation of the air conditioner on a touch screen 120. The main microcomputer 200 and the display controller 250 are connected to all kinds of parts, and exchange various data or information with the parts.

[77] In detail, the main microcomputer 200 includes a main memory 202. The main memory 202 is a storage medium, which is basically mounted in the air conditioner. AU kinds of data are stored in the main memory 202.

[78] A sensor section 212, a remote controller signal receiver 214, a indoor unit motor

216, a outdoor unit motor 218, and a compressor 220 are connected to the main microcomputer 200.

[79] The sensor section 212 includes a plurality of sensors such as a temperature sensor

(not shown), a humidity sensor 132, a pressure sensor 131, and a gas sensor (not shown), which is installed at the air conditioner. The sensor section 212 measures a state and a pollution level of the air. The humidity sensor 132 measures a humidity of an indoor. The pressure sensor 131 is used to obtain information with respect to a weather. The gas sensor measures a cleanliness of the air. As shown, information with respect to a pressure, a humidity, and a temperature sensed by the sensor section 212 is transferred to the main microcomputer 200.

[80] The remote controller signal receiver 214 decodes and transfers signals transmitted through the remote controller receiver 140 to the main microcomputer 200. The remote controller signal receiver 214 may receive data (signals) by a computer (including Internet) or wireless communication. As another embodiment, the display controller 250 may be constructed to directly receive an output signal of the remote controller signal receiver 214.

[81] The indoor unit motor 216 is installed at the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner, and rotates a fan. The indoor unit motor 216 receives a signal of the main microcomputer 200 and operates according to the received signal.

[82] On the other hand, the main microcomputer 200 controls a rotating speed of the indoor unit motor 216 according to a pollution level of the air from the sensor section 216.

[83] The compressor 220 and the outdoor unit motor 218 operates under a control of the main microcomputer 200. For example, an operation command is inputted to the main microcomputer 200 through the remote controller receiver 140 or the touch screen 120, it operates the compressor 200 and the outdoor unit motor 218, so that the air conditioner changes from a stop state to an operation state.

[84] As described earlier, the air cleaner 170 filters and cleans impurities in the air. The main microcomputer 200 controls the operation of the air cleaner 170 according to an input signal of a main input section 210.

[85] Moreover, the main microcomputer 200 may automatically adjust an intensity of the air cleaner 170. That is, according to a user' setting, the main microcomputer 200 may sense a pollution level (dust, gas and the like) in the air measured by the sensor section 212 and automatically adjust an intensity of the air cleaner 170 according to the pollution level.

[86] Furthermore, the main microcomputer 200 exchanges signals with a display controller 250, which is installed at the display device 150.

[87] In addition, data inputted to the display controller 250 through a data input section to be explained below and signals inputted to the display controller 250 through a display input section 254 can be transferred to the main microcomputer 200.

[88] A display memory 252, the display input section 254, the display section 256, and the data input section are connected to the display controller 250.

[89] The display memory 252 is installed in the display device 150 and stores various data for displaying. For example, an SRAM 252a functions as a buffer to temporarily store data to be displayed on the display section 256. A booting ROM 252b performs a booting operation of the display device 150 when a power is applied to the air conditioner. A flash memory 252c stores an operating system of the display device or a picture and a moving image file to be displayed on the display section 256.

[90] The display input section 254 includes a touch screen 120 and a touch screen controller 254a. The touch screen 120 receives information selected in a touch manner. As is generally known, when a user touches the touch screen 120, the touch screen controller 254a decodes and transmits coordinate information on the the touch screen to the display controller 250. The display controller 250 analyzes the coordinate information from the touch screen controller 254a and executes a command corresponding thereto.

[91] A display unit (display area section to which a touch manner is not applied) and a function button section (display area section to which the touch manner is applied) are displayed on the display section 256. The display unit displays functions associated with an operation of the air conditioner according to a command of the display controller 250. The function button section is used to set functions of the air conditioner.

[92] The data input section 258 is an interface device, which receives data such as picture files from an exterior through a mobile storage device such as a USB memory 16a or an SD card 160b. Data inputted by the data input section 258 is stored in the display memory 252 by means of the display controller 250. However, if necessary, the data may be transmitted to the main microcomputer 200 to be stored in the main memory 202.

[93] FlG. 5 is a block diagram for illustrating an operation mode of the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[94] As shown in FlG. 5, when a power is applied to operate an air conditioner 510, the main microcomputer 200 and the display controller 250 perform a booting operation for operating the air conditioner, and a booting screen 511 is displayed on the touch screen 120 during a performance of the booting operation. The booting screen 511 displayed on the touch screen 120 is the same screen as that displayed on the display section 256. Accordingly, hereinafter, a case that a predetermined screen is displayed on the display section 256 is referred to as 'a case that the predetermined screen is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[95] When the booting operation is terminated, the booting screen 511 displayed on the touch screen 120 is changed to an air conditioner start menu screen 520 to be displayed, that is a main menu screen on which basic function buttons associated with an operation of the air conditioner are displayed.

[96] There are an air conditioner operation button for selecting an operation function of the air conditioner, an air cleaning operation button for selecting an air cleaning function, and an information center button for selecting all kinds of information such as weather, photo album, and anniversary management as examples of the function buttons displayed on the air conditioner start menu screen 520. However, only one or two of the function buttons, or additional function buttons can be displayed by a designer.

[97] For example, when a user touches and inputs an air conditioner operation button or an air condition operation button displayed on the air conditioner start menu screen 520, the air conditioner start menu 520 screen is changed to a corresponding air conditioner menu screen or air condition operation menu screen to be displayed on the touch screen 120. FlG. 5 shows an air conditioner/air condition operation menu 600 screen displayed at one block for convenience sake of the description.

[98] When the user touches a predetermined function button displayed on the air conditioner/air condition operation menu 600, an operation set menu 610 screen of various patterns corresponding thereto is displayed on the touch screen 120. The operation set menu 610 will be described below.

[99] On the other hand, when a user touches and inputs an information center button displayed on the air conditioner start menu 520 screen, the touch screen 120 is changed from the air conditioner start menu 520 screen to a screen displaying the information center menu 700 to be displayed.

[100] A photo album button, a weather information center button, a anniversary management button, an alarm button, an operating manual button, and an envi- ronmental set button are displayed on the information center menu 700. The photo album button is used to edit, set, and display picture files downloaded from the USB memory 160a or the SD card 160b. The weather information center button is used to display information associated with weather such as a weather, indoor humidity, and air cleanliness of today. The anniversary management button is used to input or display family or acquaintance's birthday. The alarm button is used to set or cancel an alarm. The operating manual button is used to display a description of functions and a construction of the air conditioner. The environmental set button is used to optionally set date or time.

[101] Accordingly, when one of the buttons displayed on the information center menu

700 is touched and inputted, a photo album menu screen 710, a weather information center menu screen 720, a anniversary management menu screen 730, an alarm menu screen 740, an operating manual menu screen 750, or an environmental set menu screen 760 being a lower menu screen thereof is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[102] In a state that the air conditioner/air cleaning operation menu screen 600, the information center menu screen 700, and its lower menu screens are displayed on the touch screen 120, when a remote controller signal and a touch input does not occur during a predetermined time period, the screens is converted into a screen protection function screen 530 of displaying a predetermined picture (or moving image) in order to protect the display section 256.

[103] When a predetermined external command (for example, command associated with an operation of the air conditioner) is inputted to the scene protection 530 through a touch or a remote control signal for the touch screen 120, it is canceled and is returned to a previous screen.

[104] On the other hand, in the state that the air conditioner start menu screen 520 is displayed, when the remote controller signal and a touch input does not occur during the predetermined time period, the air conditioner start menu screen 520 is converted into the stop mode screen 512, and it is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[ 105] The stop mode screen 512 includes a screen of turning-off the display section 256 for power saving. However, a general stop mode screen 512 is a screen on which a simple base information such as time/date/indoor temperature are displayed.

[106] In a state that the stop mode screen 512 is displayed, when a remote controller signal or a touch input is applied thereto, the stop mode screen 512 is converted into the air conditioner start menu screen 520 and is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[107] FlG. 6 is a view showing an example of an air conditioner start menu screen 520 displayed on a touch screen 120.

[108] As shown in FlG. 6, a trademark (for example WHISEN) of the air conditioner is attached to a upper portion of the touch screen 120, and an air conditioner operation button 120a is disposed under the trademark of the air conditioner. An expression of "air conditioner operation" is marked on the air conditioner operation button 120a together with an image of an air conditioner. An air clearing operation button 120b is disposed at a lower right side of the touch screen 120. An expression of "air cleaning operation" is marked on the air clearing operation button 120b together with an oxygen drop image. An information center button 120c is disposed at a lower left side of the touch screen 120. An expression of "information center" is marked on the information center button 120c together with a box image containing timepiece and pocket notebook. When one of the air conditioner operation button 120a, the air cleaning operation button 120b, or the information center button 120c is selected, a screen displayed on the touch screen 120 is converted into a corresponding screen.

[109] As illustrated earlier, when a booting screen (not shown) is displayed after applying of a power to the air conditioner, the air conditioner start start menu screen 120 shown in FlG. 6 functions as a main menu screen displayed on the touch screen 120.

[110] In a state that the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is displayed, when the remote controller signal and the touch input does not occur for a predetermined time (approximately one minute), the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is converted into a stop mode screen 512 on which basic information with respect to time or weather is displayed. In contrast to this, when a user's touch input occurs in the stop mode screen 512 state, the stop mode screen 512 is returned to the air conditioner start menu screen 120 and the routine waits for a user's input.

[Ill] On the other hand, after the touch screen 120 is converted into an information mode or air conditioner operation/air cleaning operation mode screen, when the user selects a "previous button" displayed on a lower end of a corresponding screen or touch-inputs an "operation stop" button indicating an operation stop of the air conditioner in an air condition operation/air cleaning operation mode screen state, the information center mode screen, an air conditioner operation mode screen, or an air cleaning operation mode screen is converted into the stop mode screen 512 at once. In this state, when a user touches the touch screen 120, the stop mode screen 512 disappears and the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[112] FlG. 7(a) shows an example of the air conditioner operation mode screen displayed on the touch screen 120 when the air conditioner operation button 120a of FlG. 6 is selected by a remote controller signal or a touch input. As explained earlier, although the air conditioner operation mode screen is generally displayed on the display section 256, the user feel that it seems to be displayed on the touch screen 120. For convenience sake of the description, it is expressed that the air conditioner operation mode screen is displayed on the touch screen 120.

[113] As shown, an image such as a penguin character (or other character) skis is displayed at a upper portion of the touch screen 120 on which an air conditioner operation mode screen is displayed. The image may be a still picture or a moving image.

[114] An information window 300 and a temperature set button 316 are disposed at a lower portion of the touch screen 120 (exactly, lower portion of the display section 256). An operation state, weather information, indoor temperature, and desired temperature is displayed on the information window 300. Moving keys A, T for setting a desired temperature are displayed on the temperature set button 316. A mode conversion button section 318 is positioned at lower sides of the information window 300 and the temperature set button 316, and is used to convert the touch screen 120 into another mode. The mode conversion button section 318 includes an information center button 310, an operation stop button 312, and an operation set button 314. The information center button 310 is used to convert the touch screen 120 into an information center mode capable of all kinds of life related information. The operation stop button 312 is used to stop an operation of the air conditioner. The operation set button 314 is used to set an operation state of the air conditioner suited to the user's convenience.

[115] As shown, for example, an operation state of the air conditioner is displayed as

"strong cooling", weather information is displayed as "weather cloud", indoor temperature is displayed as "19°C", and desired temperature is displayed as "19°C", on the information window 300.

[116] A current operation mode of an air conditioner and an intensity of wind are displayed as the operation state. More particularly, one of weak/strong/power cooling, weak/strong/power turbo-Z, weak/strong/power dehumidification, artificial intelligence, and weak/strong air cleaning is displayed as the operation state.

[117] Moreover, although a character of "weather cloud" is displayed together with a cloud image on an information upgrade section 32 of the information window 300 of FlG. 7(a) as the atmospheric information, indoor humidity, air cleanliness, and weather information are sequentially and repeatedly displayed on the information upgrade section 32 on which the atmospheric information is being displayed in a sliding text manner. That is, the indoor humidity, the air cleanliness, and the weather information are repeatedly displayed in an order of indoor humidity → air cleanliness → weather → indoor humidity ... For example, the indoor humidity is displayed as "indoor humidity 30 %", and the air cleanliness is displayed as "bad", "common", and "good". The sliding text effect is upgraded in the period of 1 second.

[118] The following is a detailed explanation of the sliding text effect with reference to

FIGs. 7(b) and 7(c).

[119] FlGs. 7(b) and 7(c) show an air conditioner operation mode screen for explaining the sliding text effect as in FlG. 7(a).

[120] FlG. 7(b) shows a screen of one second later of the air conditioner operation mode screen shown in FlG. 7(a). FlG. 7(c) shows a screen of one second later of the air conditioner operation mode screen shown in FlG. 7(b).

[121] As shown in FlGs. 7(a) to 7(c), the air conditioner operation mode screen continues to be changed in an order of FlGs. (a)→(b)→(c)→(a)→(b)...

[122] Namely, a cloud image, namely, a character of "weather cloud" displayed on the information upgrade section 32 of the information window 300 of FlG. 7(a) as atmospheric information is converted into a bar graph and air cleanliness information having a character of "air cleanliness" one second later and is displayed as shown in FlG. 7(b). For example, when the air cleanliness is "good", five bar graphs are all displayed in a full state. When the air cleanliness is "common", only three right bar graphs are displayed in the full state. When the air cleanliness is "bad", only one left bar graph is displayed in the full state.

[123] In the same manner, a bar graph and a character of "air cleanliness" displayed on the information upgrade section 32 of the information window 300 of FlG. 7(b) as air cleanliness information is converted into a drop image, a character of "indoor humidity", and indoor humidity information of indoor humidity value (for example 50%) one second later, and are displayed as shown in FlG. 7(c).

[124] An air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 7(c) is converted into an air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 7(a) one second later, and the aforementioned procedures repeat.

[125] As explained earlier, in the sliding text manner, a total air conditioner operation mode screen is not inverted with a period of one second. But, it is understood that indoor humidity, weather, and air cleanliness information are repeatedly displayed through only the information upgrade section 32 of the information window 300 of the air conditioner operation mode screen with a period of one second.

[126] As is seen from the forgoing description, it is preferred that the information applied to the sliding text manner according to the present invention is information requiring a real time process. Information with respect to indoor humidity, weather, and air cleanliness changing in real time according to an indoor environment variation associated with an operation of the air conditioner is applied to the sliding text manner, so that such information can be preferably transferred to the user at once.

[127] FlG. 7(d) shows a procedure of converting a screen of FlG. 7(a) into a screen of

FlG. (b) in the sliding text manner.

[128] As shown, it is evident that atmospheric information of the information upgrade section 32 slides and disappears downward and air cleanliness information slide downwards and descends. In the present invention, the sliding direction is a down direction. However, in another embodiment, sliding effect in a up direction can be used.

[129] On the other hand, in the indoor temperature display section of the information window 300, when an indoor temperature ranges from 10°C to 36°C, the numerical value is normally displayed. When the indoor temperature is less than or equal to 10°C, "Lo" is displayed. On the other hand, when the indoor temperature is equal to or greater than 36°C, "Hi" is displayed. Strong wind/weak wind guide is displayed on the desired temperature display section of the information window 300 in an air cleanliness mode. When a user pushes a moving key of a temperature set button 316, air volume is increased. On the other hand, "Ai" is displayed in an artificial intelligence mode, and one of -2, -1, 0, 1, 2 is displayed by an input of the moving key of the temperature set button 316. Further, when a turbo-Z function is turned-on, "Po" is displayed. In remaining modes, a temperature ranging from 18°C to 30°C is displayed.

[130] The temperature set button 316 is an input section for setting a desired temperature ranging from 18°C to 30°C using a vertical moving key. When only an air cleaning function is performed, the temperature set button 316 is used as a weak/strong conversion key of wind intensity. When the user sets the desired temperature using the vertical moving key of the temperature set button 316, the temperature is increased 1°C by 1°C.

[131] Moreover, 4 icons (additional operation state icons 31) for additionally displaying an operation state of the air conditioner is displayed on the information window 300. Among the additional operation state icons 31, a most left icon displays an operation or non-operation of an air cleaning, a right side icon of the most left icon displays an operation or non-operation of an outdoor unit. A right side icon of the icon for display the operation or non-operation of an outdoor unit displays a power saving mode or non-power saving mode. A most right icon displays a time reservation set or non-time reservation set. A display order of the four icons is not constant. The four icons are displayed in an order from a left side to a right side according to a performance order of operations corresponding to respective functions.

[132] The aforementioned information window 300 only displays the above-mentioned information but is not for touch input.

[133] On the other hand, the user selects an information center button 310 of the mode conversion button section 318 to access an information center menu screen 700 capable of setting information associated with real life. Further, the user selects an operation stop button 312 to stop an operation of the air conditioner. The user can set an operation mode (cooling operation, artificial intelligence operation, dehumid- ification operation and the like) and an intensity of wind (for example, weak wind, strong wind, power wind, and the like) using a screen displayed by selecting the operation set button 314.

[134] FlG. 8 shows an example of an air cleaning operation mode screen displayed on the touch screen 120 when the air cleaning operation button 120a is selected by a remote controller signal or a touch input.

[135] As illustrated in FlG. 8, the air cleaning operation mode screen is substantially similar to the air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 7.

[136] That is, the air cleaning operation mode screen of FlG. 8 is constructed by the substantially same screen as the air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 7 except that information regarding air cleanliness continues to be displayed at a display region of the additional operation state icon 31 of FlG. 7.

[137] Accordingly, a predetermined information provided to the user by applying the same sliding text manner as in the air conditioner mode screen of FlG. 7 is displayed at a upper portion of an information window of an air cleaning operation mode screen of FIG. 8.

[138] Here, air cleanliness information is further provided to the air cleaning operation mode screen, information provided to an area to which the sliding text manner is applied includes atmospheric information and humidity information. However, if necessary, other information such as a desired cooling temperature that a user sets can be displayed by the sliding text manner.

[139] As is clear from the forgoing description, the sliding text manner does not convert at total screen into a new one. That is, the sliding text manner periodically upgrades and displays a part of data information in order to reduce an operation load of the display controller 250.

[140] Namely, so as to convert a total screen into another screen or a new screen, all specific screen information stored in the flash memory 252c should be downloaded and displayed. However, since the sliding text manner downloads and displays a part of data information, a load of the display controller 250 is reduced and power consumption is reduced.

[141] FIG. 9 shows an information center mode screen displayed on the display section

256 when an information center button 120c of an air conditioner start menu screen 120 shown in FlG. 6 is touch-inputted.

[142] As shown, an atmospheric information center button 1210, a photo album button

1220, a anniversary management button 1230, an alarm button 1240, an environment set button 1250, an operating manual button 1260, and a previous button 1270 are displayed on an information center mode screen of FIG. 9.

[143] When the atmospheric information center button 1210 is selected, the information center mode screen is converted into the atmospheric information center mode screen 1211. When a photo album button 1220 is selected, it is converted into a photo album mode screen 1221. When a anniversary management button 1230 is selected, it is converted into a anniversary management mode screen 1231. When the alarm button 1240 is selected, it is converted into an alarm button mode screen 1241. When the environmental set button 1250 is selected, it is converted into an environmental set mode screen 1251. When the operation manual button 1260 is selected, it is converted into an operation manual mode screen 1261. A user may search and newly set information related to real life using a function button displayed on the information center mode screen.

[144] The information center mode screen of FlG. 9 does not use the same sliding text manner as in the air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 7 and an air cleaning operation mode screen of FlG. 8. However, the same sliding text manner is applicable to the information center mode screen of FlG. 9 according to a designer's selection.

[145] FlG. 10 is a flow chart for illustrating an operation of a mode screen to which a sliding text manner according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied shown in HG. 7 and FlG. 8.

[146] First, when a power is applied to an air conditioner (step Sl 11), a main microcomputer 200 and a display controller 250 perform a booting operation (step Sl 12). The booting operation is performed to display a predetermined image on the display section 256.

[147] When the booting operation is completed, an air conditioner start menu screen 120 of FlG. 6 is displayed on the display section 256, wherein the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is a main menu screen on which a function button for an operation of the air conditioner, namely, air conditioner button 120a, air cleaning operation button 120b, and information center button 120c are displayed (step Sl 13).

[148] When a user selects an air conditioner operation button 120a or an air cleaning operation button 120b (step Sl 14 or Sl 19), the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is converted into an air conditioner operation mode screen or an air cleaning operation mode screen corresponding to respective function buttons (step Sl 15, step S 120).

[149] Because the air conditioner operation mode screen or the air cleaning operation mode screen is stored in a flash memory 252c, it is downloaded by the display controller 250 and are transferred to the display section.

[150] When the display controller 250 downloads and transfers the air conditioner operation mode screen or the air cleaning operation mode screen to the display section 256, a set logic recognizes an area to which the sliding text manner and information (humidity, weather, air cleanliness) provided by the the sliding text manner (step S116).

[151] The display controller 250 continuously downloads information such as humidity, weather, and air cleanliness stored in the flash memory 252c (step Sl 17), and pe- riodically transfers the air conditioner operation mode screen or the air cleaning operation mode screen to an area to which the sliding text manner is applied (step S118).

[152] When a user selects an information center button 120c (step S 121), an information center mode screen of FlG. 9 is displayed (step S 122). In the present invention, because the information center mode screen is not applied to the sliding text manner, steps S116 to S118 are unnecessary therefor.

[153] On the other hand, in a state that the air conditioner start menu screen 120 is displayed, all of three function buttons are not selected within a predetermined time (approximately one minute), it is converted into a stop mode screen on which simple information such date, temperature, time is displayed in order to protect a screen state of the display section 256 (steps S123, S124).

[154] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further, irrelative elements are omitted for clarity. Also, like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like numbers refer to like elements.

[155] FlG. 11 is a block diagram for illustrating an operation mode of the air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention. FlG. 12 is a block flow chart of another example for illustrating an operation mode of an air conditioner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[156] As shown, when a power for an operation of an air conditioner is applied to an air conditioner (step 2510), a main microcomputer 2200 and a display controller 2250 performs a booting operation for the operation of an air conditioner. When the operation of an air conditioner is being performed, a booting screen 2511 is displayed on the touch screen 2120. Here, the booting screen displayed on the touch screen 2120 corresponds to a screen display on the display section 2256. Hereinafter, a case that a predetermined screen is displayed on the display section 2256 referred to as 'a case that a predetermined screen is displayed on the touch screen 2120 for convenience sake of the description.

[157] When the booting operation is terminated, the booting screen 2511 displayed on the touch screen 2120 is converted into an air conditioner start menu screen 2520, which is a main menu screen on which basic function buttons associated with the operation of the air conditioner are displayed. The the air conditioner start menu screen 2520 is displayed.

[158] There are an air conditioner operation button for selecting an operation function of the air conditioner, an air cleaning operation button for selecting an air cleaning function, and an information center button for selecting all kinds of information such as weather, photo album, and anniversary management as examples of the function buttons displayed on the air conditioner start menu screen 2520. However, only one or two of the function buttons, or additional function buttons can be displayed by a designer.

[159] For example, when a user touches and inputs an air conditioner operation button or an air condition operation button displayed on the air conditioner start menu screen 2520, the air conditioner start menu 2520 screen is changed to a corresponding air conditioner menu screen or air condition operation menu screen to be displayed on the touch screen 2120. FIG. 11 shows an air conditioner/air condition operation menu 2990 screen displayed at one block for convenience sake of the description.

[160] When the user touches a predetermined function button displayed on the air conditioner/air condition operation menu 2990, an operation set menu 2610 screen of various patterns corresponding thereto is displayed on the touch screen 2120. The operation set menu 2610 will be described below.

[161] On the other hand, when a user touches and inputs an information center button displayed on the air conditioner start menu 2520 screen, the touch screen 2120 is changed from the air conditioner start menu 2520 screen to a screen displaying the information center menu 2700 to be displayed.

[162] A photo album button, a weather information center button, a anniversary management button, an alarm button, an operating manual button, and an environmental set button are displayed on the information center menu 2700. The photo album button is used to edit, set, and display picture files downloaded from the USB memory 2160a or the SD card 2160b. The weather information center button is used to display information associated with weather such as a weather, indoor humidity, and air cleanliness of today. The anniversary management button is used to input or display family or acquaintance's birthday. The alarm button is used to set or cancel an alarm. The operating manual button is used to display a description of functions and a construction of the air conditioner. The environmental set button is used to optionally set date or time.

[163] Accordingly, when one of the buttons displayed on the information center menu

2700 is touched and inputted, a photo album menu screen 2710, a weather information center menu screen 2720, a anniversary management menu screen 2730, an alarm menu screen 2740, an operating manual menu screen 2750, or an environmental set menu screen 2760 being a lower menu screen thereof is displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[164] In a state that the air conditioner/air cleaning operation menu screen 2990, the information center menu screen 2700, and its lower menu screens are displayed on the touch screen 2120, when a remote controller signal and a touch input does not occur during a predetermined time period, the screens is converted into a scene protection 2530 screen of displaying a predetermined picture (or moving image) in order to protect the display section 2256.

[165] When a predetermined external command (for example, command associated with an operation of the air conditioner) is inputted to the scene protection 2530 through a touch or a remote control signal for the touch screen 2120, it is canceled and is returned to a previous screen.

[166] On the other hand, in the state that the air conditioner start menu screen 2520 is displayed, when the remote controller signal and a touch input does not occur during the predetermined time period, the air conditioner start menu screen 2520 is converted into the stop mode screen 2512, and it is displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[ 167] The stop mode screen 2512 includes a screen of turning-off the display section 2256 for power saving. However, a general stop mode screen 2512 is a screen on which a simple base information such as time/date/indoor temperature are displayed.

[168] In a state that the stop mode screen 2512 is displayed, when a remote controller signal or a touch input is applied thereto, the stop mode screen 2512 is converted into the air conditioner start menu screen 2520 and is displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[169] FlG. 13 is a view showing another example of an air conditioner start menu screen

2520 displayed on a touch screen 2120.

[170] As shown in FlG. 13, a trademark (for example WHISEN) of the air conditioner is attached to a upper portion of the touch screen 2120, and an air conditioner operation button 2120a is disposed under the trademark of the air conditioner. An expression of "air conditioner operation" is marked on the air conditioner operation button 2120a together with an image of an air conditioner. An air clearing operation button 2120b is disposed at a lower right side of the touch screen 2120. An expression of "air cleaning operation" is marked on the air clearing operation button 2120b together with an oxygen drop image. An information center button 2120c is disposed at a lower left side of the touch screen 2120. An expression of "information center" is marked on the information center button 120c together with a box image containing timepiece and pocket notebook. When one of the air conditioner operation button 2120a, the air cleaning operation button 2120b, or the information center button 2120c is selected, a screen displayed on the touch screen 2120 is converted into a corresponding screen.

[171] As illustrated earlier, when a booting screen (not shown) is displayed after applying of a power to the air conditioner, the air conditioner start start menu screen 2120 shown in FIG.13 functions as a main menu screen displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[172] In a state that the air conditioner start menu screen 2120 is displayed, when the remote controller signal and the touch input does not occur for a predetermined time (approximately one minute), the air conditioner start menu screen 2120 is converted into a stop mode screen 2512 on which basic information with respect to time or weather is displayed. In contrast to this, when a user's touch input occurs in the stop mode screen 2512 state, the stop mode screen 2512 is returned to the air conditioner start menu screen 2120 and the routine waits for a user's input.

[173] On the other hand, when the user selects touch-inputs an "operation stop" button indicating an operation stop of the air conditioner in an air condition operation/air cleaning operation mode screen state, an air conditioner operation mode screen or an air cleaning operation mode screen is converted into the stop mode screen 2512 at once. In this state, when a user touches the touch screen 2120, the stop mode screen 2512 disappears and the air conditioner start menu screen 2120 is displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[174] FlG. 14 shows an example of the air conditioner operation mode screen displayed on the touch screen 2120 when the air conditioner operation button 2120a of FlG. 13 is selected by a remote controller signal or a touch input. As explained earlier, although the air conditioner operation mode screen is generally displayed on the display section 2256, the user feel that it seems to be displayed on the touch screen 2120. For convenience sake of the description, it is expressed that the air conditioner operation mode screen is displayed on the touch screen 2120.

[175] As shown in FlG. 14, an image such as a penguin character (or other character according to an environmental set) skis is displayed at a upper portion of the touch screen 2120 on which an air conditioner operation mode screen is displayed. The image may be a still picture or a moving image.

[176] An information window 2300 and a temperature set button 316 are disposed at a lower portion of the touch screen 2120. An operation state, weather information, indoor temperature, and desired temperature is displayed on the information window 2300. Moving keys A,T for setting a desired temperature are displayed on the temperature set button 2316. A mode conversion button section 2318 is positioned at lower sides of the information window 2300 and the temperature set button 2316, and is used to convert the touch screen 2120 into another mode. The mode conversion button section 2318 includes an information center button 2310, an operation stop button 2312, and an operation set button 2314. The information center button 2310 is used to convert the touch screen 2120 into an information center mode capable of all kinds of life related information. The operation stop button 2312 is used to stop an operation of the air conditioner. The operation set button 2314 is used to set an operation state of the air conditioner suited to the user's convenience.

[177] As shown, for example, an operation state of the air conditioner is displayed as

"strong cooling", weather information is displayed as "weather cloud", indoor temperature is displayed as "19°C", and desired temperature is displayed as "19°C", on the information window 2300.

[178] A current operation mode of an air conditioner and an intensity of wind are displayed as the operation state. More particularly, one of weak/strong/power cooling, weak/strong/power turbo-Z, weak/strong/power dehumidification, artificial intelligence, and weak/strong air cleaning is displayed as the operation state.

[179] Moreover, "weather cloud" is displayed as the atmospheric information in FlG. 14.

However, indoor humidity, air cleanliness, and weather information are sequentially and repeatedly displayed on the information upgrade section 32 on which the atmospheric information is being displayed in a sliding text manner. That is, the indoor humidity, the air cleanliness, and the weather information are repeatedly displayed in an order of indoor humidity → air cleanliness → weather → indoor humidity ... For example, the indoor humidity is displayed as "indoor humidity 30 %", and the air cleanliness is displayed as "bad", "common", and "good". The sliding text effect is upgraded in the period of 1 second.

[180] On the other hand, in the indoor temperature display section of the information window 2300, when an indoor temperature ranges from 10°C to 36°C, the numerical value is normally displayed. When the indoor temperature is less than or equal to 10°C, "Lo" is displayed. On the other hand, when the indoor temperature is equal to or greater than 36°C, "Hi" is displayed. Strong wind/weak wind guide is displayed on the desired temperature display section of the information window 2300 in an air cleanliness mode. When a user pushes a moving key of a temperature set button 316, air volume is increased. On the other hand, "Ai" is displayed in an artificial intelligence mode, and one of -2, -1, 0, 1, 2 is displayed by an input of the moving key of the temperature set button 316. Further, when a turbo-Z function is turned-on, "Po" is displayed. In remaining modes, a temperature ranging from 18°C to 30°C is displayed.

[181] The temperature set button 2316 is an input section for setting a desired temperature ranging from 18°C to 30°C using a vertical moving key. When only an air cleaning function is performed, the temperature set button 2316 is used as a weak/strong conversion key of wind intensity. When the user sets the desired temperature using the vertical moving key of the temperature set button 316, the temperature is increased 1°C by 1°C.

[182] Moreover, 4 icons (additional operation state icons 231) for additionally displaying an operation state of the air conditioner is displayed on the information window 2300. Among the additional operation state icons 231, a most left icon displays an operation or non-operation of an air cleaning, a right side icon of the most left icon displays an operation or non-operation of an outdoor unit. A right side icon of the icon for display the operation or non-operation of an outdoor unit displays a power saving mode or non-power saving mode. A most right icon displays a time reservation set or non-time reservation set. A display order of the four icons is not constant. The four icons are displayed in an order from a left side to a right side according to a performance order of operations corresponding to respective functions. When the air conditioner is operated only for air cleaning, the additional operation state icon 231 is not displayed. In this case, air cleanliness to be described later is displayed.

[183] The aforementioned information window 300 only displays the above-mentioned information but is not for touch input.

[ 184] On the other hand, the user selects an information center button 2310 of the mode conversion button section 2318, a screen on the touch screen 2120 is moved to an information center menu screen 2700. When an operation stop button 2312 is selected, the screen on the touch screen 2120 is moved to a stop mode screen 2980. When an operation set button 2314 is selected, it is converted into an operation detail control screen to be explained below.

[185] FlG. 15 is a view showing an example of an operation detail control screen. A user can selectively set an operation mode, wind intensity, or additional function on the operation detail control screen.

[186] As shown, an information window 2300 and a temperature set button 2316 are displayed on the operation detail control screen. An operation state of the air conditioner, atmospheric information, indoor temperature, and desired temperature are displayed through the information window 2300. The temperature set button 2316 includes vertical moving keys A,T for setting a desired temperature. The information window 2300 and the temperature set button 2316 have substantially the same functions as those of the information window 2300 and the temperature set button 2316 shown in FlG. 14, respectively. Accordingly, the user selects a vertical moving key of the temperature set button 2316 to control a desired temperature.

[187] An operation mode selector 2810, a wind intensity selector 2820, an additional function selector 2830, and a mode conversion button section 2840 are sequentially displayed at a lower side of the temperature set button 2316 downwards.

[188] The operation mode selector 2810 includes a cooling button 2811, an artificial intelligence button 2812, a dehumidification button 2813, and an air cleaning button 2814.

[189] The wind intensity selector 2820 includes a weak wing button 2821, a strong wind button 2822, a power wind button 2823, and a turbo-Z button 2824.

[190] The additional function selector 2830 includes a horizontal wind button 2831, a vertical wind button 2832, and a power saving button 2833.

[191] The mode conversion button section 2840 includes an information center button

2841, an operation stop button 2842, and a set completion button 2843.

[192] When the air conditioner operates for only air condition, the operation mode selector 2810, the wind intensity selector 2820, the additional function selector 2830, and the mode conversion button section 2840 can be simultaneously selected. In contrast to this, when the air conditioner operates for only air cleaning, only the weak wing button 2821 and the strong wind button 2822 of the wind intensity selector 2820 can be inputted, but the power wind button 2823 and the turbo-Z button 2824 and remaining functions are disabled and can not be inputted. When an air cleaning operation button 2120b of FlG. 13 is selected, an air conditioner start menu screen 2120 of FlG. 13 is converted into an operation detail control screen of FlG. 15 at once. Accordingly, in an air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 14 displayed by a selection of the air conditioner operation button 2120a of FlG. 13 associated with an operation of the air conditioner, as an operation set button 2314 is selected, it is converted into an operation detail control screen of FlG. 15. There is a little difference between the former case and the latter case.

[193] After the air conditioner start menu screen is converted into an operation detail control screen in FlG. 15, when a user's input does not occur for a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute), it is returned to a screen state of FlG. 14. On the contrary, when the user's input occurs, it is automatically returned to a screen state of FlG. 14 approximately 5 seconds later since a final input.

[194] FlG. 16 is a view showing the air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 14 displayed as a character operation mode animation of various patterns according to an operation state of the air conditioner.

[195] FlG. 16(a) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "weak cooling". FlG. 16(b) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "strong cooling". FlG. 16(c) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "power cooling".

[196] FlG. 16(d) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "weak turbo-Z". FlG. 16(e) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "strong turbo-Z". FlG. 16(f) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "power turbo-Z". FlG. 16(g) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "weak dehumidification". FlG. 16(h) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "artificial intelligence". FlG. 16(i) shows an air conditioner mode screen when an air conditioner operates in "strong air cleaning".

[197] As shown in FlG. 16, it is understood that various characters are displayed on the air conditioner operation mode screen according to an operation state of the air conditioner. In the present, the characters are expressed as moving image. However, the characters can be expressed as still image.

[198] FlGs. 17(a) to 17(i) are views showing the air conditioner operation mode screen of

FlG. 14 displayed as a motion operation mode animation of various patterns according to an operation state of the air conditioner. An animation image is displayed on the motion operation mode animation at a upper portion of the touch screen 120 as moving image.

[199] In the same manner as in FlG. 16, it is understood that the animation of various images is displayed on the air conditioner mode screen according to the operation state of the air conditioner.

[200] FlG. 18 is a view showing an example of a screen state when a remote controller signal is suddenly received while the air conditioner is operating in a screen state of FlG. 16 or HG. 17.

[201] When the remote controller signal is applied to the air conditioner, remote controller receiving alarm windows 1111 to 1114 of various patterns appear on the air conditioner operation mode screen. In this case, a previous air conditioner mode screen is converted into a dim background screen.

[202] The remote controller receiving alarm window 1111 of FlG. 18(a) is a screen displayed when a desired temperature is adjusted using a remote controller. The remote controller receiving alarm window 1112 of FlG. 18(b) is a screen displayed when air volume is adjusted. The remote controller receiving alarm window 1113 of FlG. 18(c) is a screen displayed when a vertical wind discharged from the air conditioner is adjusted. The remote controller receiving alarm window 1114 of FlG. 18(d) is a screen displayed when a horizontal wind discharged from the air conditioner is adjusted.

[203] After a reception of the remote controller signal, the remote controller receiving alarm windows 1111 to 1114 are displayed for approximately 5 seconds and automatically disappear.

[204] Only when the data received from a remote controller are a vertical wind on or horizontal wind on, the remote controller receiving alarm windows 1113 and 1114 of FlGs. 18(c) and 18(d) are displayed. After the remote controller transfers a vertical wind on command, when the vertical wind on command is canceled, the remote controller receiving alarm windows 1113 and 1114 are not displayed and disappear at once.

[205] On the other hand, in a state that a screen protection function 2530 is displayed, when the remote controller signal is received, the screen protection function 2530 and a remote controller receiving alarm window is then displayed.

[206] Furthermore, when the remote controller signal is received on the information center mode screen, the information center mode screen enters in an operation mode. Accordingly, the remote controller receiving alarm window is not separately displayed.

[207] FlG. 19 shows an information center mode screen displayed on an entire surface of the touch screen when an information center button 120c of an air conditioner start menu screen 120 shown in FlG. 13 is touch-inputted.

[208] As shown, an atmospheric information center button 1210, a photo album button 1220, a anniversary management button 1230, an alarm button 1240, an environment set button 1250, an operating manual button 1260, and a previous button 1270 are displayed on an information center mode screen of FlG. 9.

[209] When the atmospheric information center button 1210 is selected, the information center mode screen is converted into the atmospheric information center mode screen 1211. When a photo album button 1220 is selected, it is converted into a photo album mode screen 1221. When a anniversary management button 1230 is selected, it is converted into a anniversary management mode screen 1231. When the alarm button 1240 is selected, it is converted into an alarm button mode screen 1241. When the environmental set button 1250 is selected, it is converted into an environmental set mode screen 1261. In a state that an information center mode screen is displayed, when a predetermined time elapses, the information center mode screen is converted into a stop mode screen.

[210] On the other hand, an information center button 2310 of a lower end is selected from an air conditioner operation mode screen of FlG. 14, it is also converted into a screen of FlG. 19.

[211] In case that a "previous" button 2985 disposed at a lower end of the information center mode screen, when the air conditioner is current operating, it enters into an air conditioner operation mode screen 2990 of FlG. 14. In contrast to this, when the air conditioner stops, it enters into a stop mode screen 2980.

[212] In the same manner, in a state that the information center mode screen is displayed, when the remote controller signal is applied, it enters into an air conditioner/air cleaning operation menu screen 2990 or the stop mode screen 2980 according to an operation state of the air conditioner.

[213] On the other hand, since the present invention relates to a display and a set of a stop mode screen, the following is a description of a procedure of entering from an information center mode screen of FlG. 19 to a stop mode set screen.

[214] FlG. 20 is a view showing a main screen of an environmental set screen illustrated in FIG. 19.

[215] As shown in FlG. 20, an operation mode button, a stop mode button, a screen protection function button, a screen brightness button, a weather/time button, and an effect sound button are displayed on an environmental set screen.

[216] The operation mode button is used to select and set a screen displayed on the touch screen during an operation of the air conditioner. The stop mode button is used to set a stop mode screen displayed in a stop mode illustrated in FlG. 11. The screen protection function button is used to set a screen appearing in a screen protection mode illustrated in FlG. 11. The screen brightness button is used to adjust a brightness of the touch screen. The weather/time button is used to set weather and time. The effect sound button is used to set a button sound.

[217] When a "previous" button disposed at a lower end of an environmental set screen, an environmental set screen is returned to an information center mode screen of FlG. 19.

[218] On the other hand, an entry into a stop mode set screen being a main interest of the present invention is achieved by selecting a stop mode button shown in FlG. 20.

[219] FlG. 21 is a view showing an example of a stop mode set screen for setting a stop mode screen displayed on the touch screen in a stop mode according to a user's selection.

[220] As shown in FlG. 21, images of various patterns by themes (time, date, indoor temperature, nothing) and backgrounds (deep sea, underwater, sky) are displayed on the stop mode set screen, which can be displayed in a stop mode.

[221] As shown, time, weather, and indoor temperature information to be displayed on the stop mode screen by themes are all displayed in real time. An image state displayed as the "nothing" among the stop mode screen is to turn-off a back light using as a light source of the display section 256, which is composed of an LCD. The reason to select such a stop mode screen is to reduce power consumption due to an operation of the display section 256.

[222] More particularly, a present time is displayed as main information in the "time" image among the themes, a data and a day of today, and morning/afternoon (AM or PM) are further displayed with a small size at one side of the "time" image displayed as the main information. Here, remaining parts except for the time, a data and a day of today, and morning/afternoon (AM or PM), are displayed with a dark (for example, black) color.

[223] Among the themes, a present data is displayed as main information in the "date" image. A year and a day of this year are further displayed with a small size at one side of the "date" image displayed as the main information. Here, remaining parts except for the "date" image, the year and day of this year, are displayed with a black color.

[224] Moreover, among the themes, a present indoor temperature of the air conditioner is displayed as main information in the "indoor temperature" image. The month, the date, and the day of today are further displayed with a small size at one side of the "indoor temperature" image displayed as the main information. Here, remaining parts except for the indoor temperature, the month, the date, and the day of today, are displayed with a black color.

[225] In addition, among the themes, when the "nothing" image is selected, nothing is displayed on the display section 256. The reason is, as described above, that the "nothing" image state is to turn-off a back light using as a light source of the display section 256, which is composed of an LCD. [226] Next, the item "background" is used to change a dark background according to a user's selection.

[227] For example, a user selects "deep sea" from the item "background", and "time" from the item "theme", time information and a deep sea image are displayed as main information and a background thereof on the stop mode screen in the stop mode, respectively. Namely, the user suitably combines the item by themes and by backgrounds to set a stop mode screen of various patterns.

[228] In summary, the user can select only "time", "date", "indoor temperature", and

"nothing" images by themes. Further, the user can combine and select "deep sea", "underwater", and "sky" images by themes and backgrounds.

[229] In an order of the selection, the user can select the image in either an order of one of images by themes and one of images by backgrounds, or in the reverse order thereof.

[230] On the other hand, the user selects "previous view" button to previously view what is displayed on the stop mode screen in the stop mode.

[231] The user selects one from the images by themes or a combination of images by themes and by backgrounds and selects a "storage" button to store the selected image in a memory device, namely, flash memory 252c. When the user selects and stores an optionally new image displayed on the stop mode set screen in the flash memory 252c, the stop mode screen stored in the memory device in a default manner and by a user is substituted by a newly selected image.

[232] On the other hand, when the stop mode screen is displayed in the stop mode, an output of the back light is reduced so that the display section 256 formed of the LCD maintains the lowest brightness. The reason is to extend a life of the display section 256 and reduce power consumption thereof.

[233] When a remote controller signal is received or a user touches the touch screen 120, the stop mode screen disappears, as mentioned above, and an air conditioner start menu screen being a main screen appears. When it is converted into the air conditioner start menu screen, an output of the back light being a light source of the display section 256 is increased. Accordingly, the air conditioner start menu screen maintains a normal brightness, namely, is restored to a set screen brightness.

[234] On the other hand, when a "storage" button or "cancellation" button disposed at a lower end of the stop mode set screen is selected, as shown, the stop mode screen is returned to the environmental set screen of FIG. 20.

[235] FIG. 22 is a view showing an example of a stop mode screen, which is set in the stop mode set screen of FIG. 12. Since a method for displaying the stop mode screen on the display section 256 was explained with reference to FIG. 11, the detailed description thereof is omitted.

[236] FIG. 22(a) shows an example of a case of selecting only "time" being an image by themes from a set stop mode screen. FlG. 22(b) shows an example of a cast of selecting a combination of "time" being an image by themes and "deep sea" being an image by backgrounds from a set stop mode screen. FlG. 22(c) shows an example of a case of selecting a combination of "date" being an image by themes and "sky" by backgrounds.

[237] While a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims. Industrial Applicability

[238] In accordance with a displaying method of picture for an air conditioner, a screen display in the display device is optimized to have excellent industrial applicability.

Claims

[1] A displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner having a display device, comprising the steps of:

(i) displaying a plurality of information with respect to the air conditioner on the display device; and

(ii) processing at least one of the plurality of information as a predetermined pattern.

[2] The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (ii) periodically a plurality of information, which change in real time.

[3] The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the information displayed on the display device is a stop mode set screen, and step (ii) selects one of a plurality of stop mode screens displayed on the stop mode set screen, and stores the selected stop mode screen.

[4] A displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner having a display device, comprising the steps of:

(a) displaying information with respect to an operation state of the air conditioner on the display device as an image and a character of various patterns; and

(b) periodically a plurality of information changing in real time among the information displayed as the image and the character of various patterns.

[5] The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the information displayed as the image and the character of various patterns includes at least one of information with respect to a current operation mode of the air conditioner and a desired temperature information for air condition set by a user.

[6] The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the plurality of information changing in real time includes weather information, air cleaning degree information, and indoor humidity information.

[7] The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the weather information, the air cleaning degree information, and the indoor humidity information are periodically replaced and displayed.

[8] The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the air cleaning degree information, and the indoor humidity information being periodically replaced are displayed by a sliding text scheme, in which next information slides and appears the moment previous information slides in a upper or lower direction to be disappeared.

[9] A displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner, comprising the step of: sequentially displaying a plurality of information changing in real time during an operation of the air conditioner.

[10] The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the plurality of information changing in real time includes weather information, air cleaning degree information, and indoor humidity information.

[11] The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the air cleaning degree information, and the indoor humidity information are sequentially displayed by a sliding text scheme, in which next information slides and appears the moment previous information slides in a upper or lower direction to be disappeared.

[12] A displaying method of a picture for an air conditioner, comprising the steps of:

(I) displaying a stop mode set screen for setting a stop mode screen on a display device;

(II) selecting one from a plurality of stop mode screens displayed on the stop mode set screen; and

(III) storing the selected stop mode screen.

[13] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein a command for performing steps (I),

(II), and (III) are inputted by a touch screen, which is mounted at the display device. [14] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the plurality of stop mode screens is one of a time screen for displaying a time as a main information, a date screen for displaying a data as a main information, an indoor temperature screen for displaying an indoor temperature as a main information, and a screen for turning- off the display device. [15] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the plurality of stop mode screens further include a plurality of background screens, which are composed of an image of various patterns. [16] The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the selected and stored stop mode screen is formed by a combination of one of the time screen, the data screen, and the indoor temperature screen; and one of the plurality of background screens. [17] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the selected and stored stop mode screen is displayed on the display device when the display device is in a stop mode. [18] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein a screen of the display device maintains only a minimal brightness when the stored stop mode screen is displayed on the display device. [19] The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the stop mode screen displayed on the display device changes to an air conditioner start menu screen, a screen brightness of the display device is returned to a set screen brightness when an external input for operating the air conditioner is applied. [20] The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein a stored stop mode screen is deleted when the stop mode screen is stored.