Patent Application
20250172318
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Application No. 10-2023-0169991, filed in Korea on Nov. 29, 2023, whose entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference.
An air conditioner is disclosed herein.
Air conditioners control a temperature of indoor air to a temperature set by a user and cool and heat indoor air according to the principle of a refrigeration cycle. In particular, an air conditioner in which an indoor unit is installed vertically in an indoor space is referred to as a stand-alone air conditioner, an air conditioner in which an indoor unit is installed on an indoor wall is referred to as a wall-mounted air conditioner, and an air conditioner in which an indoor unit is installed on an indoor ceiling is referred to as a ceiling-type air conditioner.
The ‘link structure of an air conditioner’ disclosed in Korean Application Publication No. 10-1998-0049068, which is hereby incorporated by reference, includes a plurality of louvers coupled to a discharge port side, and a link that integrally rotates the plurality of louvers, in which the plurality of louvers are formed in a flat plate shape with a uniform thickness throughout.
In the related art air conditioner, the plurality of louvers move to form a discharge flow path and come closer to an inner wall to adjust a wind direction. As the louver located at an edge among the plurality of louvers moves closer to the inner wall, and a flow path between the louver at the edge and the inner wall becomes narrow, causing a vortex. This causes a problem in that a discharged air flow does not flow smoothly.
Further, the related art air conditioner has a problem in that the vortex occurring at the edge of the discharge flow path is not discharged quickly through the discharge port due to the plurality of louvers, causing dew formation on the louvers. Furthermore, the related art air conditioner has a problem in that bacteria, such as mold, grows due to condensate formed in the louvers. This may cause an unpleasant odor occurring in the discharged air flow.
Embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and wherein:
Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like numbers refer to like elements throughout although the embodiments are different, and redundant description thereof has been omitted.
In the following description, usage of suffixes, such as ‘module’, ‘part’ or ‘unit’ used for referring to elements is given merely to facilitate explanation of the present invention, without having any significant meaning by itself.
In describing embodiments, if an explanation for a related known function or construction is considered to unnecessarily divert the gist, such explanation has been omitted but would be understood by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings aim to facilitate understanding of embodiments and should not be construed as limiting. Also, the embodiments are not limited to a specific disclosed form, but includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, for example, may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.
It is to be understood that when one element is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another element, it may be connected directly to or coupled directly to another element or be connected to or coupled to another element, having the other element intervening therebetween. Meanwhile, it is to be understood that when one element is referred to as being “connected directly to” or “coupled directly to” another element, it may be connected to or coupled to another element without the other element intervening therebetween.
A singular form may include a plural form if there is no clearly opposite meaning in the context.
The direction indications of up (U), down (D), left (Le), right (Ri), front (F), and rear (R) shown in the drawings are only for the convenience of description, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited thereby.
Air conditioner 1 is described with reference to
The case 10 may include a front wall 102 that forms a front surface. The front wall 102 may face an indoor space. The front wall 102 may face a front. The case 10 may include a sidewall 104 that forms a side surface. The sidewall 104 may form a side surface of the case 10. The sidewall 104 may be connected to the front wall 102. The sidewall 104 may include a pair of sidewalls 104 bent from the front wall 102.
The intake port 11 may be formed in the case 10. The intake port 11 may be formed on one or a first surface of the case 10. For example, the intake port 11 may be opened on an upper surface of the case 10. The intake port 11 may be open upwardly in the case 10. Indoor air may be introduced into an interior of the case 10 through the intake port 11.
The discharge port 12 may be formed in the case 10. The discharge port 12 may be formed on another or a second surface of the case 10. For example, the discharge port 12 may include first discharge port 12a formed on the front wall 102 of the case 10. The discharge port 12 may be elongated. For example, the first discharge port 12a opened forwardly on the front wall 102 of the case 10 may be elongated in a leftward-rightward or sideways direction.
Air inside of the case 10 may be discharged into an indoor space through the discharge port 12. In addition, air introduced through the intake port 11 may be discharged through the discharge port 12. For example, air inside of the case 10 may be discharged to the front of the air conditioner 1 through the first discharge port 12a.
The air conditioner 1 may include a filter 20 disposed in the intake port 11. The filter 20 may have a shape corresponding to a shape of the intake port 11. The filter 20 may purify air introduced into the intake port 11.
The air conditioner 1 may include a discharge vane disposed in the discharge port 12. The discharge vane may guide an air flow discharged through the discharge port 12. The discharge vane may be elongated in a lengthwise direction of the discharge port 12.
The discharge vane may include a first discharge vane 13 disposed in the first discharge port 12a. The first discharge vane 13 may be fixed to the first discharge port 12a. The first discharge port 12a may be maintained in a normally open state. The first discharge vane 13 may guide the air flow discharged through the first discharge port 12a forwardly.
The air conditioner 1 may include a display 14 that displays operation information. The display 14 may display various types of information. For example, the display 14 may display information on an indoor temperature, a set temperature, a wind speed, a wind direction, and/or an indoor humidity, for example. The display 14 may be disposed in the case 10. For example, the display 14 may be disposed on the front wall 102. The display 14 may be coupled to a rear side of the front wall 102. Light emitted through the display 14 may penetrate through the front wall 102. Thus, the display 14 may display various information to a user.
Referring to
The air conditioner 1 may include the indoor heat exchanger 16 disposed inside of the case 10. The indoor heat exchanger 16 may heat-exchange air and a refrigerant inside of the case 10. The indoor heat exchanger 16 may heat-exchange air introduced through the intake port 11 and the refrigerant. The air that has been heat-exchanged through the indoor heat exchanger 16 may be supplied to the indoor space through the discharge port 12. The indoor heat exchanger 16 may heat-exchange an air flow formed by the blower fan 17 with the refrigerant. The indoor heat exchanger 16 may function as an evaporator or a condenser. For example, the indoor heat exchanger 16 may function as an evaporator to supply cold air to the indoor space. For example, the indoor heat exchanger 16 may function as a condenser to supply warm air to the indoor space.
The air conditioner 1 may include the fan 17 disposed inside of the case 10. The fan 17 may form an air flow flowing from the intake port 11 to the discharge port 12. The air flow formed by the fan 17 may be heat-exchanged with the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger 16.
The fan 17 may be disposed adjacent to the indoor heat exchanger 16. For example, the fan 17 may be located downstream of the indoor heat exchanger 16 in an air flow direction. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the fan 17 may be located upstream of the indoor heat exchanger 16 in the air flow direction.
A discharge flow path 180 may be formed in the case 10 through which the air flow formed by the fan 17 flows. The discharge flow path 180 may be located downstream of the fan 17 in the air flow direction. The discharge flow path 180 may be located downstream of the indoor heat exchanger 16 in the air flow direction. The air flow passing through the indoor heat exchanger 16 or the fan 17 may flow to the discharge port 12 through the discharge flow path 180. The discharge flow path 180 may be connected to the discharge port 12.
The air conditioner 1 may include a front guide 184 that forms the discharge flow path 180. The front guide 184 may be disposed inside of the case 10. The front guide 184 may separate the indoor heat exchanger 16 and the discharge flow path 180. The front guide 184 may prevent air that has not passed through the indoor heat exchanger 16 from flowing into the discharge flow path 180. The front guide 184 may be disposed below the indoor heat exchanger 16.
The front guide 184 may be disposed adjacent to the discharge port 12. The front guide 184 may extend from the fan 17 toward the discharge port 12. For example, the front guide 184 may extend from the fan 17 toward the first discharge port 12a. The front guide 184 may extend to be bent. With this structure, the discharged air flow may flow smoothly.
The air conditioner 1 may include a middle guide 181 spaced apart from the front guide 184. The middle guide 181 may be disposed inside of the case 10. The fan 17 may be disposed between the middle guide 181 and the front guide 184. The middle guide 181 may guide the air flow passing through the fan 17 to the discharge flow path 180. For example, the middle guide 181 may be spaced rearward from the front guide 184, and the fan 17 may be located between the front guide 184 and the middle guide 181 to form the air flow. The middle guide 181 may extend to be bent in a rotational direction of the fan 17.
The air conditioner 1 may include a rear guide 182 that forms the discharge flow path 180. The discharge flow path 180 may be formed between the front guide 184 and the rear guide 182. The rear guide 182 may be spaced apart from the front guide 184. For example, the rear guide 182 may be spaced rearward from the front guide 184.
The rear guide 182 may be connected to the middle guide 181. The rear guide 182 may extend from the middle guide 181 toward the discharge port 12. For example, the rear guide 182 may extend from the middle guide 181 toward a second discharge port (12b, not shown) described hereinafter. The rear guide 182 may be disposed below the middle guide 181. The rear guide 182 may be disposed below the fan 17. The rear guide 182 may be disposed adjacent to the discharge port 12.
The discharge port 12 may include the second discharge port (12b, not shown) open downwardly in the case 10. The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be formed on a lower wall 106 of the case 10. The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be adjacent to the first discharge port 12a. For example, the first discharge port 12a may be open forwardly in the front wall 102 of the case 10, and the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be open downwardly in the lower wall 106 of the case 10. With this structure, the discharged air may be discharged forwardly and downwardly through the first discharge port 12a and the second discharge port (12b, not shown), respectively.
The discharge vane may include a second discharge vane 15 disposed in the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The second discharge vane 15 may open or close the second discharge port (12b, not shown).
The air conditioner 1 may include a guide module or guide 30 disposed in the discharge flow path 180. The guide module 30 may include a plurality of vanes (see
The guide module 30 may be coupled to the rear guide 182. The guide module 30 may be disposed between the rear guide 182 and the front guide 184. The plurality of vanes (see
An internal structure of the air conditioner 1 will be described with reference to
The air conditioner 1 may include a radar module 40 that detects an occupant in an indoor space. The radar module 40 may detect a biosignal of the indoor space. For example, the radar module 40 may detect a location of an occupant or occupants, the number of occupants, an amount of activity, a movement of the occupant or occupants, a respiratory rate of the occupant or occupants, a body temperature of the occupant or occupants, a vital state of the occupant or occupants, and/or a posture of the occupant or occupants, for example. The air conditioner 1 may control at least one of a wind speed, a wind direction, or a set temperature based on the detected biosignal result value.
The radar module 40 may include a radar sensor 44 that detects a biosignal. The radar sensor 44 may transmit and/or receive radio waves. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed toward an indoor space. The radar sensor 44 may detect a biosignal in the indoor space. The radar sensor 44 may include a thermopile sensor. The radar sensor 44 may use radio waves that penetrate and/or reflect obstacles. The radar sensor 44 may detect a biosignal by transmitting and receiving radio waves of a specific Hz. For example, the radar sensor 44 may detect a biosignal in an indoor space using millimeter waves (mm-Wave).
The radar sensor 44 may be disposed inside of the case 10. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed adjacent to an electrical portion 50. The internal space of the case 10 may be divided into a first internal space in which the indoor heat exchanger 16 and the fan 17 are disposed and a second internal space in which the electrical portion 50 is disposed. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed in the second internal space. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed between the indoor heat exchanger 16 and the electrical portion 50.
The radar sensor 44 may be disposed on the front surface of the case 10. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed on the front wall 102 of the case 10. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed on a rear surface of the front wall 102. The radar sensor 44 may use radio waves that penetrate the front wall 102. For example, the radar sensor 44 may detect a biosignal of an indoor space by transmitting and/or receiving a radio wave that penetrates the front wall 102.
The radar sensor 44 may be located to face the indoor space. The radar sensor 44 may be disposed forwardly. The radar sensor 44 may be located so as to face the front wall 102.
The air conditioner 1 may include the electrical portion 50. The electrical portion 50 may be located in the second internal space of the case 10. The electrical portion 50 may be located apart from the indoor heat exchanger 16 and/or the fan 17.
The display 14 may be located in front of the electrical portion 50. The display 14 may be located on a rear side of the front wall 102. The display 14 may be located between the electrical portion 50 and the front wall 102.
The air conditioner 1 may include a drain pan 19 that collects condensate that forms in the indoor heat exchanger 16. The drain pan 19 may be disposed inside of the case 10. The drain pan 19 may be disposed below the indoor heat exchanger 16. With this structure, condensate that forms in the indoor heat exchanger 16 may fall to the drain pan 19. The drain pan 19 may be elongated in a lengthwise direction of the indoor heat exchanger 16.
A structure of components disposed inside of the air conditioner 1 will be described with reference to
The air conditioner 1 may include a chassis 60 disposed inside of the case 10. The chassis 60 may be coupled to the case 10. The indoor heat exchanger 16 may be coupled to the chassis 60. The fan 17 may be coupled to the chassis 60.
The chassis 60 may include a fan holder 61 coupled to the fan 17. The fan holder 61 may include a first fan holder 61a and a second fan holder 61b spaced apart from each other in a lengthwise direction of the fan 17. The first internal space and the second internal space of the case 10 may be divided based on the second fan holder 61b. That is, based on the second fan holder 61b, a first internal space in which the fan 17 and the indoor heat exchanger 16 are disposed may be formed on one side, and a second internal space in which the electric portion 50 is disposed may be formed on the other side.
The rear guide 182 may be disposed in the first internal space. The rear guide 182 may be coupled to the chassis 60. The guide module 30 may be disposed in the first internal space. The guide module 30 may be coupled to the rear guide 182.
The guide module 30 will be described with reference to
The guide module 30 may include a plurality of vanes 32 and 34 arranged in the discharge flow path 180. The plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may be arranged in a row. The plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may be arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow toward the discharge port 12. For example, the air flow may flow in an upward-downward or vertical direction, and the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may be disposed in the leftward-rightward direction.
The vanes 32 and 34 may include a pair of first vanes 32 spaced apart from each other. The pair of first vanes 32 may be disposed at an edge of the guide module 30. The pair of first vanes 32 may be disposed close to an inner wall forming the discharge flow path 180. The pair of first vanes 32 may be disposed at one or a first end and the other or a second end of the guide module 30, respectively, in the lengthwise direction. The pair of first vanes 32 may be disposed at one end and the other end in a direction in which the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 are arranged, respectively. The first vane 32 may form an edge of the plurality of vanes 32 and 34.
The plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may include a plurality of second vanes 34 arranged between the pair of first vanes 32. The plurality of second vanes 34 may be arranged in a direction in which the pair of first vanes 32 are spaced apart from each other. That is, the direction in which the plurality of second vanes 34 are arranged and the direction in which the pair of first vanes 32 are spaced apart from each other may be parallel.
The guide module 30 may include a coupling panel 31 to which the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may be coupled. The coupling panel 31 may be elongated. The coupling panel 31 may be coupled to the discharge flow path 180. The pair of first vanes 32 may be coupled to one or a first end and the other or a second end of the coupling panel 31, respectively. The plurality of second vanes 34 may be coupled to the coupling panel 31 between the pair of first vanes 32.
The guide module 30 may include a link 36 coupled to the plurality of vanes 32 and 34. The link 36 may be elongated. The link 36 may include a link panel 364 and a link stick 362 elongated from the link panel 364. A width of the link panel 364 may be greater than a width of the link stick 362. A length of the link panel 364 may be shorter than a length of the link stick 362.
The pair of first vanes 32 may be respectively coupled to one or a first end and the other or a second end of the link stick 362 in the lengthwise direction. A plurality of second vanes 34 may be coupled to the link stick 362 and the link panel 364. The plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may move integrally with the link 36. For example, as the link 36 moves in the leftward-rightward direction, the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 may move in the leftward-rightward direction. Accordingly, the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path 180 may be adjusted.
The pair of first vanes 32 will be described with reference to
The first vane 32 may include a fixing member 322 coupled to the coupling panel 31. The fixing member 322 may be fixed to the coupling panel 31. The width of the fixed portion 322 may increase in the flow direction of the discharged air flow.
The first vane 32 may include a movable portion 326 to which the link 36 is coupled. The movable portion 326 may be separated from the fixed portion 322. The movable portion 326 may be movable. The movable portion 326 may be movable in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. For example, the movable portion 326 may be movable in the leftward-rightward direction by the link 36 coupled thereto. A width of the movable portion 326 may be greater than the width of the fixed portion 322.
The first vane 32 may include a connecting portion 324 that connects the movable portion 326 to the fixed portion 322. The connecting portion 324 may be located between the movable portion 326 and the fixed portion 322. A width of the connecting portion 324 may gradually increase from the fixed portion 322 to the movable portion 326.
A thickness of the connecting portion 324 may be thinner than a thickness of the fixed portion 322. The thickness of the connecting portion 324 may be thinner than a thickness of the movable portion 326. With this structure, a flexibility of the connecting portion 324 may be greater than a flexibility of the fixed portion 322 or the movable portion 326.
The connecting portion 324 may be connected to the movable portion 326 and may be bent. For example, the connecting portion 324 may be bent according to the movable portion 326 moving in the leftward-rightward direction.
The connecting portion 324 may include a first connecting portion 3242 that connects the movable portion 326 to the fixed portion 322 and a second connecting portion 3244 located between the movable portion 326 and the fixed portion 322. The second connecting portion 3244 may extend from the movable portion 326. The second connecting portion 3244 may extend from the movable portion 326 toward the fixed portion 322 and may be spaced apart from the fixed portion 322. That is, the second connecting portion 3244 may not be connected to the fixed portion 322. Accordingly, the second connecting portion 3244 may move integrally with the movement of the movable portion 326.
The second connecting portion 3244 may include a curved portion 3245 an edge of which facing the fixed portion 322 is formed to be curved. That is, the edge of the second connecting portion 3244 facing the fixed portion 322 may be formed in a curved shape. Accordingly, discharged air flow may smoothly pass through the second connecting portion 3244, thereby reducing noise.
The width of the connecting portion 324 may increase from the fixed portion 322 to the movable portion 326. A width of the second connecting portion 3244 may increase from the fixed portion 322 to the movable portion 326.
The first connecting portion 3242 and the second connecting portion 3244 may be spaced apart from each other. The connecting portion 324 may include a slit 3240 formed between the first connecting portion 3242 and the second connecting portion 3244. The slit 3240 may be elongated. The slit 3240 may extend from a gap between the second connecting portion 3244 and the fixed portion 322. The slit 3240 may be formed between the first connecting portion 3242 and the second connecting portion 3244, so that the first connecting portion 3242 that moves dependently on the fixed portion 322 and the second connecting portion 3244 that moves freely may move independently without interfering with each other.
The movable portion 326 may include a first movable portion 3261 directly connected to the connecting portion 324 and a second movable portion 3262 coupled to the link 36. The first movable portion 3261 may connect the second movable portion 3262 to the connecting portion 324. The first connecting portion 3242 and the second connecting portion 3244 may be connected to the first movable portion 3261. The first connecting portion 3242 may connect the first movable portion 3261 to the fixed portion 322. A thickness of the first movable portion 3261 may gradually increase from the first connecting portion 3242 to the second movable portion 3262. Due to the change in the thickness of the first movable portion 3261, a step may not be formed between the connecting portion 324 and the movable portion 326. Accordingly, the air flow flowing along the vanes 32 and 34 may flow smoothly.
The first vane 32 may include a communication hole 3260 formed in the movable portion 326. The communication hole 3260 may be a through-hole formed to penetrate the vanes 32 and 34. The communication hole 3260 may be formed in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The communication hole 3260 may be formed in a direction in which the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 is arranged. Accordingly, the air flow flowing along the first vane 32 may flow through the first vane 32.
The communication hole 3260 may include a plurality of communication holes 3260 formed in the movable portion 326. The plurality of communication holes 3260 may be arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The plurality of communication holes 3260 may be arranged in a direction intersecting the direction in which the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 is arranged. The plurality of communication holes 3260 may be arranged in a widthwise direction of the movable portion 326. For example, the plurality of communication holes 3260 may be disposed in the upward-downward direction.
The communication hole 3260 may be elongated. The communication hole 3260 may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The communication hole 3260 may be elongated in a direction intersecting a widthwise direction of the movable portion 326. For example, the communication hole 3260 may be elongated in the upward-downward direction or the frontward-rearward direction. With this structure, the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path may smoothly pass through the communication hole 3260 and flow.
The movable portion 326 may include a brace 3264 formed between a plurality of communication holes 3260. The brace 3264 may partition the plurality of communication holes 3260. The brace 3264 may be elongated. The brace 3264 may extend in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the discharged air flow. For example, the brace 3264 may be elongated in the upward-downward direction or the leftward-rightward direction. The brace 3264 may include a plurality of braces 3264 formed between the plurality of communication holes 3260. By forming the braces 3264 extending in the flow direction of the discharged air flow between the communication holes 3260, a rigidity of the movable portion 326 may be improved.
The vanes 32 and 34 may include a coupling slot 3263 in which the link 36 is disposed. The coupling slot 3263 may be formed in the movable portion 326. The coupling slot 3263 may be a through-hole formed in the vanes 32 and 34. The coupling slot 3263 may be formed in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The coupling slot 3263 may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the discharged air flow. With this structure, the discharged air flow may also flow through the vanes 32 and 34 also through the coupling slot 3263.
The coupling slot 3263 may be disposed in a row with the plurality of communication holes 3260. For example, the coupling slot 3263 and the plurality of communication holes 3260 may be formed in a row in the upward-downward direction or the frontward-rearward direction on the movable portion 326.
The coupling panel 31 may include a hook 312 coupled to the discharge flow path 180. For example, the coupling panel 31 may be hook-coupled to the rear guide 182 forming the discharge flow path 180.
The second vane 34 will be described with reference to
The second vane 34 may include a fixed portion 342 coupled to the coupling panel 31. The fixed portion 342 may be fixed to the coupling panel 31. The width of the fixed portion 342 may increase in the flow direction of the discharged air flow.
The second vane 34 may include a movable portion 346 to which the link 36 is coupled. The movable portion 346 may be separated from the fixed portion 342. The movable portion 346 is movable. The movable portion 346 may be movable in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. For example, the movable portion 346 may be movable in the leftward-rightward direction by the coupled link 36. A width of the movable portion 346 may be greater than the width of the fixed portion 342.
The second vane 34 may include a connecting portion 344 that connects the movable portion 346 to the fixed portion 342. The connecting portion 344 may be located between the movable portion 346 and the fixed portion 342. A width of the connecting portion 344 may gradually increase from the fixed portion 342 to the movable portion 346.
A thickness of the connecting portion 344 may be thinner than a thickness of the fixed portion 342. The thickness of the connecting portion 344 may be thinner than a thickness of the movable portion 346. With this structure, a flexibility of the connecting portion 344 may be greater than a flexibility of the fixed portion 342 or the movable portion 346.
The connecting portion 344 may be connected to the moving movable portion 346 and may be bent. For example, the connecting portion 344 may be bent according to the movable portion 346 moving in the leftward-rightward direction.
The connecting portion 344 may include a first connecting portion 3442 that connects the movable portion 346 to the fixed portion 342 and a second connecting portion 3444 located between the movable portion 346 and the fixed portion 342. The second connecting portion 3444 may extend from the movable portion 346. The second connecting portion 3444 may be connected from the movable portion 346 toward the fixed portion 342 and may be spaced apart from the fixed portion 342. That is, the second connecting portion 3444 may not be connected to the fixed portion 342. Accordingly, the second connecting portion 3444 may move more freely along with the moving movable portion 346.
The second connecting portion 3444 may include a curved portion 3245 an edge of which facing the fixed portion 342 is formed to be curved. That is, the edge of the second connecting portion 3444 facing the fixed portion 342 may be formed in a curved shape. Accordingly, the discharged air flow may smoothly pass through the second connecting portion 3444 and noise that occurs may be reduced.
A width of the connecting portion 344 may increase from the fixed portion 342 to the movable portion 346. A width of the second connecting portion 3444 may increase from the fixed portion 342 to the movable portion 346.
The first connecting portion 3442 and the second connecting portion 3444 may be spaced apart from each other. The connecting portion 344 may include a slit 3440 formed between the first connecting portion 3442 and the second connecting portion 3444. The slit 3440 may be elongated. The slit 3440 may extend from a gap between the second connecting portion 3444 and the fixed portion 342. The slit 3440 may be formed between the first connecting portion 3442 and the second connecting portion 3444, so that the first connecting portion 3442 that moves dependently on the fixed portion 342 and the second connecting portion 3444 that moves freely may move independently without interfering with each other.
The movable portion 3466 may include a first movable portion 3461 that is directly connected to the connecting portion 344 and a second movable portion 3462 to which the link 36 is coupled. The first movable portion 3461 may connect the second movable portion 3462 to the connecting portion 344. The first connecting portion 3442 and the second connecting portion 3444 may be connected to the first movable portion 3461. The first connecting portion 3442 may connect the first movable portion 3461 to the fixed portion 342. A thickness of the first movable portion 3461 may gradually increase from the first connecting portion 3442 to the second movable portion 3462. Due to the change in the thickness of the first movable portion 3461, a step may not be formed between the connecting portion 344 and the movable portion 346. Accordingly, the air flow flowing along the vanes 32 and 34 may flow smoothly.
The second vane 34 may include a coupling slot 3463 in which the link 36 is disposed. The coupling slot 3463 may be formed in the movable portion 346. The coupling slot 3463 may be a through-hole formed in the vanes 32 and 34. The coupling slot 3463 may be formed in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The coupling slot 3463 may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the discharged air flow. With this structure, the discharged air flow may also flow through the coupling slot 3463.
The coupling slot 3463 may be disposed in a row with a plurality of communication holes 3260. For example, the coupling slot 3463 and the plurality of communication holes 3260 may be formed in a row in the upward-downward direction or the frontward-rearward direction in the movable portion 346.
A coupling structure of the vanes 32 and 34 and the link 36 will be described with reference to
The vanes 32 and 34 may include a coupling pillar 3464 to which the link 36 is coupled. The coupling pillar 3464 may be formed in the coupling slots 3263 and 3463. The coupling pillar 3464 may extend in the widthwise direction of the vanes 32 and 34. The movable portions 326 and 346 may include the coupling pillar 3464.
The vanes 32 and 34 may include a support member or support 3465 that extends from the coupling pillar 3464. The support member 3465 may support the vanes 32 and 34. The support member 3465 may support the movable portions 326 and 346. The support member 3465 may slide as the movable portions 326 and 346 move. The support member 3465 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. A radius of the support member 3465 may be greater than a radius of the coupling pillar 3464.
The link 36 may include a coupling recess 363 coupled to the coupling pillar 3464. The link stick 362 may include the coupling recess 363. The coupling pillar 3464 may be inserted into the coupling recess 363. The coupling pillar 3464 may be rotatably coupled to the coupling recess 363. With this structure, the coupling pillar 3464 may move while being coupled to the coupling recess 363.
A thickness of the vanes 32 and 34 is described with reference to
The thickness of the vanes 32 and 34 may change in the flow direction of the discharged air flow. The thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344 may be thinner than the thickness of the fixed portions 322 and 342. The thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344 may be thinner than the thickness of the movable portions 326 and 346. With this structure, the flexibility of the connecting portions 324 and 344 may be improved.
The thickness of the fixed portions 322 and 342 may be thicker than the thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344. As the thickness of the fixed portions 322 and 342 is thicker than the thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344, a fixing force fixed to the coupling panel 31 may be improved.
The thickness of the movable portions 326 and 346 may be thicker than the thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344. As the thickness of the movable portions 326 and 346 is thicker than the thickness of the connecting portions 324 and 344, a rigidity of the movable portions 326 and 346 moved by the link 36 may be improved.
One or a first surfaces 32b and 34b of the vanes 32 and 34 may be formed flat. One or a first surface 32b of the first vane 32 may be formed flat. One or a first surface 34b of the second vane 34 may be formed flat.
The other or a second surfaces 32a and 34a of the vanes 32 and 34 may be recessed. The other surfaces 32a and 34a of one region of the vanes 32 and 34 corresponding to the connecting portions 324 and 344 may be recessed. With this structure, the thickness between the one surfaces 32b and 34b and the other surfaces 32a and 34a of the vanes 32 and 34 may be reduced.
The chassis 60 to which the guide module 30 is coupled will be described with reference to
The chassis 60 may form the discharge flow path 180. The guide module 30 may be coupled to the chassis 60. The guide module 30 may be coupled to the rear guide 182 forming the discharge flow path 180.
The rear guide 182 may include a recessed portion 632 to which the guide module 30 is coupled. The recessed portion 632 may be recessed from a surface of the rear guide 182. The surface of the rear guide 182 may refer to one surface of the rear guide 182 forming the discharge flow path 180. The coupling panel 31 of the guide module 30 may be coupled to the recessed portion 632. When the coupling panel 31 is disposed in the recessed portion 632, the surface of the coupling panel 31 may be located parallel to the surface of the rear guide 182. The surface of the coupling panel 31 may be referred to as one surface to which the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 is coupled. The surface of the coupling panel 31 and the surface of the rear guide 182 may be located on a continuous virtual surface. The surface of the coupling panel 31 and the surface of the rear guide 182 may form a continuous surface.
The rear guide 182 may include a drive recess 634. The guide module 30 may receive a drive force through the drive recess 634. A drive unit (not shown) that drives the guide module 30 may be disposed on a rear surface of the rear guide 182. The drive unit (not shown) may drive the link 36 of the guide module 30 through the drive recess 634.
The guide module 30 will be described with reference to
The guide module 30 may include a drive shaft 365 that receives the drive force. The drive shaft 365 may be formed in the link 36. The drive shaft 365 may be formed in the link panel 364 of the link 36. The drive shaft 365 may be connected to the drive unit (not shown) through the drive recess 634 of the rear guide 182. The power of the drive unit (not shown) may drive the drive shaft 365. As the drive shaft 365 moves, the plurality of vanes 32 and 34 connected to the link 36 may move integrally.
The second discharge vane 15 of the air conditioner 1 will be described with reference to
The first discharge port 12a may be open forwardly in the case 10. The first discharge port 12a may be formed on the front surface of the case 10. For example, the first discharge port 12a may be elongated in a lower portion of the front wall 102 of the case 10.
The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be open downwardly in the case 10. The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be formed on a lower surface of the case 10. The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be adjacent to the first discharge port 12a. For example, the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be elongated in a lower front portion of the case 10.
The first discharge port 12a and the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be adjacent to one corner of the case 10. For example, the first discharge port 12a and the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be adjacent to a lower corner of the front wall 102. The lower corner of the front wall 102 may correspond to the front corner of the lower surface of the case 10.
The first discharge port 12a may be opened. The first discharge port 12a may not be closed. The second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be opened and closed. For example, the first discharge port 12a may be opened at all times, and the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be opened when the air conditioner 1 is in operation and closed when the air conditioner 1 is stopped. However, without being limited thereto, the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be closed when the air conditioner 1 is in operation.
The air conditioner 1 may include the lower cover 106 coupled to a lower portion of the case 10. The lower cover 106 may be detachably coupled to the case 10. The lower cover 106 may form a lower surface of the case 10.
The second discharge vane 15 may be disposed in the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The second discharge vane 15 may be coupled to the case 10. The second discharge vane 15 may be coupled to the lower cover 106.
The second discharge vane 15 may open or close the second discharge port (12b, not shown). For example, when an operation signal is input to the air conditioner 1, the second discharge vane 15 may be opened, and when an operation end signal is input to the air conditioner 1, the second discharge vane 15 may be closed. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second discharge vane 15 may be closed when the air conditioner 1 is in operation.
The second discharge vane 15 that closes the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be aligned parallel to the lower cover 106. For example, a lower surface of the second discharge vane 15 that closes the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be aligned parallel to the lower surface of the lower cover 106.
A structure of the second discharge vane 15 will be described with reference to
The second discharge vane 15 may include a guide panel 152. The guide panel 152 may form one or a first surface of the second discharge vane 15. The guide panel 152 may guide the discharged air flow. The guide panel 152 may be disposed on the inside of the case 10. The guide panel 152 may be disposed obliquely with respect to the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The guide panel 152 may open or close the second discharge port (12b, not shown).
The guide panel 152 may be elongated. The guide panel 152 may include one surface that is elongated. The guide panel 152 may have an uneven portion formed on a surface thereof. The uneven portion may be elongated in a lengthwise direction of the guide panel 152. The guide panel 152 may have a width formed in a direction intersecting the lengthwise direction. The uneven portion may be repeated in the widthwise direction of the guide panel 152. By forming the uneven portion on the surface of the guide panel 152, an amount of condensate formed on the surface of the guide panel 152 may be reduced.
The guide panel 152 may include a pair of longer sides LS1 and LS2 and a pair of shorter sides SS1 and SS2. The uneven portion may be elongated in a direction parallel to the pair of longer sides LS1 and LS2. The uneven portion may be arranged in a lengthwise direction of the pair of shorter sides SS1 and SS2. A region of the guide panel 152 in which the uneven portion is formed may be spaced apart from the pair of longer sides LS1 and LS2. A region of the guide panel 152 in which the uneven portion is formed may be spaced apart from the pair of shorter sides SS1 and SS2.
The second discharge vane 15 may include a coupling flange 1522 coupled to the case 10. The coupling flange 1522 may be formed on the guide panel 152. The coupling flange 1522 may protrude from the guide panel 152. The coupling flange 1522 may be formed at each end of the second discharge vane 15 in the lengthwise direction. For example, a pair of coupling flanges 1522 may be formed at the left and right of first and second ends of the second discharge vane 15, respectively.
A structure of the second discharge vane 15 will be described with reference to
The second discharge vane 15 may include a base panel 154. The base panel 154 may form the other or a second surface of the second discharge vane 15. The base panel 154 may open or close the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The base panel 154 may be disposed obliquely with respect to the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The base panel 154 may be disposed on an outer surface of the case 10. The base panel 154 may be disposed parallel to the lower cover 106. A surface of the base panel 154 may be formed flat. For example, a lower surface of the base panel 154 may be formed flat.
The guide panel 152 may be coupled to the base panel 154. The guide panel 152 may form an upper portion of the second discharge vane 15, and the base panel 154 may form a lower portion of the second discharge vane 15. The guide panel 152 may form an upper surface of the second discharge vane 15, and the base panel 154 may form a lower surface of the second discharge vane 15.
The second discharge vane 15 may include an accommodating space 150. The accommodating space 150 may be formed between the guide panel 152 and the base panel 154. A rear surface of the guide panel 152 and a rear surface of the base panel 154 may form an outer circumferential surface of the accommodating space 150. The rear surface of the guide panel 152 may be a lower surface of the guide panel 152. The rear surface of the base panel 154 may be an upper surface of the base panel 154.
The second discharge vane 15 may include an insulating member 156 disposed in the accommodating space 150. The insulating member 156 may be disposed between the guide panel 152 and the base panel 154. The insulating member 156 may be coupled to at least one of the guide panel 152 or the base panel 154. For example, the insulating member 156 may be bonded to at least one of the guide panel 152 or the base panel 154.
The insulating member 156 and the guide panel 152 may be formed of different materials. The insulating member 156 and the base panel 154 may be formed of different materials. For example, the insulating member 156 may be formed of a polyethylene (PE) material.
The second discharge vane 15 may include a supporter 1528 disposed between the guide panel 152 and the base panel 154. The supporter 1528 may be disposed in the accommodating space. The supporter 1528 may be elongated in the lengthwise direction of the second discharge vane 15. The supporter 1528 may protrude from the guide panel 152. For example, the supporter 1528 may protrude from a rear surface of the guide panel 152 toward the base panel 154. The supporter 1528 may support the guide panel 152. The supporter 1528 may separate the guide panel 152 and the base panel 154 from each other.
The supporter 1528 may divide the accommodating space 150 into a first accommodating space 1501 and a second accommodating space 1502. The first accommodating space 1501 may be located in front of the supporter 1528. The second accommodating space 1502 may be located at a rear of the supporter 1528. A volume of the second accommodating space 1502 may be greater than a volume of the first accommodating space 1501.
The insulating member 156 may include a first insulating member 1561 disposed in the first accommodating space 1501 and a second insulating member 1562 disposed in the second accommodating space. The first insulating member 1561 and the second insulating member 1562 may be formed of different materials. For example, the first insulating member 1561 may be formed of a polyethylene (PE) material, and the second insulating member 1562 may be formed of a polyurethane (PU) material.
The guide panel 152 may include an uneven portion formed on a surface thereof. The surface of the guide panel 152 may be an upper surface of the guide panel 152. The guide panel 152 may include a first groove 1524 recessed from the surface. The guide panel 152 may include a first rib 1526 that protrudes from the surface. The first groove 1524 and the first rib 1526 may be arranged alternately. The first groove 1524 and the first rib 1526 may be elongated in the lengthwise direction of the guide panel 152. The first groove 1524 and the first rib 1526 may be arranged alternately in the widthwise direction of the guide panel 152.
The base panel 154 may include a protrusion formed on a rear surface thereof. The rear surface of the base panel 154 may be an upper surface of the base panel 154. The base panel 154 may include a second groove 1544 recessed from the rear surface. The base panel 154 may include a second rib 1546 that protrudes from the rear surface. The second groove 1544 and the second rib 1546 may be arranged alternately. The second groove 1544 and the second rib 1546 may be elongated in the lengthwise direction of the base panel 154. The second groove 1544 and the second rib 1546 may be arranged alternately in the widthwise direction of the base panel 154.
The guide panel 152 may have a height which is lower toward the longer sides LS1 and LS2. For example, the guide panel 152 may have a height which is lower toward the first longer side LS1 and the second longer side LS2.
The guide panel 152 may have a height which is lower toward a rear end. The guide panel 152 may include a first inclined portion 1523 that is inclined downwardly toward a rear. The first inclined portion 1523 may be connected to a flat portion 1521 of the guide panel 152. A first insulating member 1561 may be disposed between the first inclined portion 1523 and the base panel 154.
The guide panel 152 may have a height which is lower toward a front end. The guide panel 152 may include a second inclined portion 1525 that is inclined downwardly toward a front. The second inclined portion 1525 may be connected to the flat portion 1521 of the guide panel 152. A second accommodating space 1502 may be formed between the second inclined portion 1525 and the base panel 154. A second insulating member 1562 may be disposed between the second inclined portion 1525 and the base panel 154.
The guide panel 152 may include a flat portion 1521 connected to the first inclined portion 1523 and/or the second inclined portion 1525. The flat portion 1521 may be located between the first inclined portion 1523 and the second inclined portion 1525. The flat portion 1521 may be spaced apart from the base panel 154.
The uneven portion of the guide panel 152 may be formed on the flat portion 1521. The uneven portion of the guide panel 152 may be formed on the first inclined portion 1523 and/or the second inclined portion 1525. For example, the uneven portion of the guide panel 152 may be formed from an upper surface of the first inclined portion 1523 to an upper surface of the second inclined portion 1525 through to an upper surface of the flat portion 1521.
The insulating member 156 may be disposed on at least one of the first inclined portion 1523 or the second inclined portion 1525.
The second insulating member 1562 may be disposed on an inner side of the second inclined portion 1525. The second insulating member 1562 may be disposed in the second accommodating space 1502 formed between the second inclined portion 1525 and the base panel 154.
The second insulating member 1562 may be disposed on an inner side of the first inclined portion 1523. The second insulating member 1562 may be disposed between the first inclined portion 1523 and the base panel 154.
The first insulating member 1561 may be disposed between the flat portion 1521 and the base panel 154, and the second insulating member 1562 may be disposed in a space formed between the first inclined portion 1523 and the base panel 154 and a space formed between the second inclined portion 1525 and the base panel 154.
A coupling structure and function of the second discharge vane 15 will be described with reference to
The second discharge vane 15 may be disposed in the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The second discharge vane 15 may open or close the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The second discharge vane 15 may be operated in the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The second discharge vane 15 that closes the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be disposed parallel to the lower surface of the case 10. For example, the base panel 154 that closes the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be disposed parallel to the lower cover 106. The second discharge vane 15 that opens the second discharge port (12b, not shown) may be disposed obliquely with respect to the lower surface of the case 10.
The discharge flow path 180 may include a first discharge flow path 1801 formed between the rear guide 182 and the front guide 184. The discharge flow path 180 may include a second discharge flow path 1802 formed between the first discharge flow path 1801 and the discharge port 12. The second discharge flow path 1802 may be formed between the second discharge vane 15 and the front guide 184.
The rear guide 182 may extend to be curved from the fan 17 toward the second discharge vane 15. A downstream edge of the rear guide 182 may be adjacent to the second discharge vane 15. A downstream end portion of the rear guide 182 may extend toward the first inclined portion 1523 of the second discharge vane 15. The rear guide 182 may guide the air flow flowing through the first discharge flow path 1801 to the first inclined portion 1523 and the flat portion 1521. The second discharge guide 122 may guide the air flow flowing through the second discharge flow path 1802 to the first discharge port 12a.
The air conditioner 1 may include the discharge guide 122 disposed between the first discharge port 12a and the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The discharge guide 122 may be disposed at a corner of the case 10 in which the first discharge port 12a and the second discharge port (12b, not shown) are formed. For example, the discharge guide 122 may be disposed on an inner surface of a lower corner of the front wall 102.
The discharge guide 122 may be bent. The discharge guide 122 may be formed to be curved. The discharge guide 122 may include a first guide surface 1222 forming the first discharge port 12a. The discharge guide 122 may include a second guide surface 1224 forming the second discharge port (12b, not shown).
The first guide surface 1222 may be formed to be inclined. The first guide surface 1222 may be inclined upwardly toward the front. The first guide surface 1222 may face the first discharge vane 13. The first guide surface 1222 may be located below the first discharge vane 13. The first guide surface 1222 may guide the air flow flowing through the second discharge flow path 1802 to the first discharge port 12a.
The second guide surface 1224 may be formed to be inclined. The second guide surface 1224 may be inclined downwardly toward the front. The second guide surface 1224 may face the second discharge vane 15. The second guide surface 1224 may face the second inclined portion 1525. The second guide surface 1224 may be located in front of the second discharge vane 15. The second guide surface 1224 may guide the air flow flowing through the second discharge flow path 1802 to the second discharge port (12b, not shown). The first guide surface 1222 and the second guide surface 1224 may be connected in a curved manner. The connecting portion at which the first guide surface 1222 and the second guide surface 1224 are connected may be rounded.
The closed second discharge vane 15 may be adjacent to the discharge guide 122. When the second discharge vane 15 is closed, the gap from the discharge guide 122 may be narrowed. The second inclined portion 1525 of the second discharge vane 15 may face the second guide surface 1224. The second inclined portion 1525 may be adjacent to the second guide surface 1224. The second inclined portion 1525 may be disposed parallel to the second guide surface 1224. The rear guide 182 may guide the air flow flowing in the first discharge flow path 1801 to the second discharge vane 15. The second discharge vane 15 may guide the air flow flowing in the second discharge flow path 1802 to the first guide surface 1222. With this structure, the closed second discharge vane 15 may guide the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path 180 to the first discharge port 12a.
The opened second discharge vane 15 may be separated from the discharge guide 122. When the second discharge vane 15 is opened, the gap from the discharge guide 122 may increase. The second inclined portion 1525 of the second discharge vane 15 may be separated from the second guide surface 1224. The air flow flowing through the second discharge flow path 1802 may be discharged to the second discharge port (12b, not shown) through the gap between the second guide surface 1224 of the discharge guide 122 and the second discharge vane 15. With this structure, the opened second discharge vane 15 may control a wind direction of the air flow discharged through the second discharge port (12b, not shown).
An air conditioner according to embodiments disclosed herein may include a case including an intake port and a discharge port; a fan disposed inside of the case and forming an air flow; an indoor heat exchanger that heat-exchanges air inside of the case with a refrigerant; and a guide module that is disposed downstream of the fan and guides the air flow flowing to the discharge port. The guide module may include a plurality of vanes arranged in a row in a discharge flow path formed between the discharge port and the fan, the plurality of vanes include a pair of first vanes spaced apart from each other; and a plurality of second vanes arranged between the pair of first vanes. The pair of first vanes may include a communication hole formed in a penetrating manner. The communication hole may include a plurality of communication holes arranged in a direction intersecting a flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The plurality of communication holes may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. A width of the plurality of communication holes intersecting a length direction may be greater than a spacing between the plurality of communication holes.
The plurality of vanes may include a fixed portion fixed to the discharge flow path; a movable portion moving in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path; and a connecting portion that connects the fixed portion to the movable portion. The communication hole may be formed in the movable portion of the pair of first vanes. A thickness of the connecting portion may be thinner than a thickness of the movable portion.
The guide module may include a link connected to the plurality of vanes and moving in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The movable portion may include a coupling slot in which the link is disposed. The coupling slot may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path.
The communication hole may include a plurality of communication holes arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The coupling slot may be disposed in a row with the plurality of communication holes.
The movable portion may include a coupling pillar formed in the coupling slot. The link may include a coupling recess coupled to the coupling pillar.
A thickness of the fixed portion may be thicker than a thickness of the connecting portion. The connecting portion may be bent as the movable portion moves.
The connecting portion may include a first connecting portion connecting the movable portion to the fixed portion, and a second connecting portion extending from the movable portion toward the fixed portion and spaced apart from the fixed portion. The connecting portion may include a slit formed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. An edge of the second connecting portion facing the fixed portion may be formed to be curved.
Certain or other embodiments described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Certain or other embodiments described above may be used together or combined with each other in configuration or function.
For example, it means that a component A described in a specific embodiment and/or drawing may be combined with a component B described in another embodiment and/or drawing. That is, it means that, even if the combination of the components is not directly described, the combination is possible except for a case where the combination is described as impossible.
Embodiments disclosed herein provide an air conditioner forming a smooth air flow.
Embodiments disclosed herein also provide an air conditioner with reduced vortex occurrence.
Embodiments disclosed herein further provide an air conditioner with improved hygiene performance.
Embodiments disclosed herein furthermore provide an air conditioner with reduced dew formation.
Additionally, embodiments disclosed herein provide an air conditioner with improved comfort of discharged air flow.
Embodiments disclosed herein provide a guide module structure of an air conditioner that controls a flow direction of discharged air flow.
Embodiments disclosed herein also provide a guide module structure of an air conditioner with improved durability.
Advantages are not limited to the advantages mentioned above, and other advantages not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.
Embodiments disclosed herein provide an air conditioner may include a case including an intake port and a discharge port; a fan disposed inside of the case and forming an air flow; an indoor heat exchanger that heat-exchanges air inside of the case with a refrigerant; and a guide module disposed downstream of the fan and guiding the air flow flowing to the discharge port. The guide module may include a plurality of vanes arranged in a row in a discharge flow path formed between the discharge port and the fan. The plurality of vanes may include a pair of first vanes spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of second vanes arranged between the pair of first vanes. The pair of first vanes may include a communication hole formed in a penetrating manner, so that a discharged air flow may flow by passing through the pair of first vanes through the communication hole.
The communication hole may include a plurality of communication holes arranged in a direction intersecting a flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The plurality of communication holes may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. A width of the plurality of communication holes intersecting a length direction may be greater than a spacing between the plurality of communication holes.
The plurality of vanes may include a fixed portion fixed to the discharge flow path; a movable portion moving in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path; and a connecting portion that connects the fixed portion to the movable portion. The communication hole may be formed in the movable portion of the pair of first vanes. A thickness of the connecting portion may be thinner than a thickness of the moving portion, so that the connecting portion may be formed to be more flexible than the movable portion.
The guide module may include a link connected to the plurality of vanes and moving in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The movable portion may include a coupling slot in which the link is disposed. The coupling slot may be elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path, so that the discharged air flow may pass through the coupling slot.
The communication hole may include a plurality of communication holes arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path. The coupling slot may be disposed in a row with the plurality of communication holes.
The movable portion may include a coupling pillar formed in the coupling slot. The link may include a coupling recess coupled to the coupling pillar.
A thickness of the fixed portion may be thicker than a thickness of the connecting portion, thereby increasing a fixed area.
The connecting portion may be bent as the moving portion moves. The connecting portion may include a first connecting portion that connects the movable portion to the fixed portion, and a second connecting portion that extends from the movable portion toward the fixed portion and spaced apart from the fixed portion. The connecting portion may include a slit formed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. An edge of the second connecting portion facing the fixed portion may be formed to be curved.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a pair of first vanes located at an edge are formed with a communication hole, so that a vortex occurring at the edge may flow to a discharge port through a communication hole. With this structure, the occurrence of the vortex may be reduced, so that the discharged air flow may flow smoothly. Accordingly, an amount of dew formed on the guide module may be reduced.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a rigidity of the pair of first vanes may be improved due to the plurality of communication holes disposed in the vertical direction.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the vortex may smoothly flow in a flow direction of the air flow and be discharged to the discharge port due to the plurality of communication holes elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a thickness of the connecting portion is formed thinner than a thickness of the movable portion, so that a flexibility of the vane may be improved. Accordingly, the movable portion may flexibly move in the leftward-rightward direction with respect to the fixed portion.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, due to the coupling slot elongated in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the air flow flowing through the discharge flow path, the vortex that occurs may flow to the discharge port by passing through the vane through the coupling slot.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the thickness of the fixed portion is thicker than the thickness of the connecting portion, so that a fixing force of the vane may be improved.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the connecting portion includes the first connecting portion that connects the movable portion to the fixed portion and the second connecting portion not connected to the fixed portion, so that fatigue applied to the connecting portion when the movable portion moves in the leftward-rightward direction may be reduced. As a result, a durability of the guide module may be improved.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the slit is formed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, so that interference between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion may be reduced when the movable portion moves in the leftward-rightward direction. As a result, noise and friction occurring from the guide module may be reduced.
According to at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the edge of the second connecting portion facing the fixed portion is formed to be curved, so that the discharged air flow passing through the guide module may flow smoothly.
The advantages are not limited to the advantages mentioned above, and other advantages not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.
The description should not be construed as being limitative from all aspects, but should be construed as being illustrative. The scope should be determined by reasonable analysis of the attached claims, and all changes within the equivalent range are included in the scope.
It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the element or layer can be directly on another element or layer or intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, for example, may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.
Spatially relative terms, such as “lower”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “lower” relative to other elements or features would then be oriented “upper” relative to the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures). As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
Any reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” for example, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the purview of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other ones of the embodiments.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-2023-0169991 | Nov 2023 | KR | national |
