MOUNTING DEVICE AND AIR CONDITIONING APPARATUS COMPRISING SAME

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation application, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. § 365 (c), of an International application No. PCT/KR2024/002506, filed on Feb. 27, 2024, which is based on and claims the benefit of a Korean patent application number 10-2023-0052256, filed on Apr. 20, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and of a Korean patent application number 10-2023-0092014, filed on Jul. 14, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The disclosure relates to a mounting device having an improved structure and an air-conditioning apparatus including the same.

2. Description of Related Art

An air-conditioner is a device that performs at least one function among air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, or heating in an air-conditioning space and refers to a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

The air-conditioner may perform cooling or heating for a space using a refrigeration cycle, and may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and pipes. A refrigerant may circulate through the compressor, the condenser, the expansion device, and the evaporator along the pipes.

The air-conditioner may be classified into a split-type air-conditioner and an integrated air-conditioner. The split-type air-conditioner may include an indoor unit disposed indoors and an outdoor unit disposed outdoors. The integrated air-conditioner may have both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit disposed in a single housing.

For example, a mounting device may be needed to mount the air-conditioner to a structure. The mounting device may be mounted to the structure, and the air-conditioner may be mounted to the mounting device.

The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the disclosure.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide a mounting device having an improved structure.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide a mounting device capable of maintaining a state in which a locking protrusion of a moving shaft is engaged with teeth of a rail.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide a mounting device capable of preventing sagging or tipping.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide a mounting device with improved user safety.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide a mounting device with improved user convenience.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide an air conditioning apparatus including a mounting device having an improved structure.

Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, a mounting device configured to mount an air conditioner to a structure is provided. The mounting device includes a fixing frame configured to support the air conditioner, a moving frame configured to be movable up and down relative to the fixing frame, a rail provided on the moving frame, configured to be movable up and down together with the moving frame, and having teeth extending along a direction of movement of the moving frame, a moving shaft provided on the fixing frame, configured to be movable in a first direction toward the teeth and in a second direction away from the teeth, the moving shaft including a locking protrusion formed at a first end thereof and configured to engage with the teeth, a handle provided at a second end of the moving shaft and configured to move the moving shaft in the second direction, and a handle locking part configured to lock the handle to restrict movement of the moving shaft in the first direction while the moving shaft is in a state of having been moved in the second direction by the handle.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an air-conditioning apparatus is provided. The air-conditioning apparatus includes an air conditioner and a mounting device configured to mount the air conditioner, wherein the mounting device may include a first frame part configured to support the air conditioner, a second frame part extending upward from one side of the first frame part, a third frame part extending in parallel with the second frame part from other side of the first frame part, and a fourth frame part connecting the second frame part and the third frame part, constituting a fixing frame, a moving frame including a fifth frame part configured to be movable relative to the second frame part and a sixth frame part configured to be movable relative to the third frame part, a rail disposed on at least one of the fifth frame part and the sixth frame part of the fixing frame and including teeth, a moving shaft disposed on the fourth frame part, configured to be movable along an extending direction of the fourth frame part, and including a locking protrusion configured to engage with the teeth, and a handle configured to move the moving shaft. The moving shaft may be configured to have a first state in which engagement between the locking protrusion and the teeth is released by applying a predetermined force to the handle, and a second state in which the locking protrusion and the teeth are engaged again by removing the predetermined force from the handle.

Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an air-conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an air conditioner shown in FIG. 2, viewed from a different direction according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a plan cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a mounting device shown in FIG. 5, viewed from a different direction according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a fixing frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a moving frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates a fixing frame is fixed to a structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a moving frame is fixed to a structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a plurality of cover panels is removed from a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a part of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of some components of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a plan cross-sectional view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a first state S1 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a first state S1 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a second state S2 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second state S2 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a front view illustrating a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 22 is a schematic view illustrating a coupling relationship between a handle and a handle locking part when the moving shaft is in the third state S3 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a schematic view illustrating a first state S1, a second state S2, and a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 24 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a moving shaft is disposed in an escape prevention section of a rail according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 25 is a schematic view illustrating a first locking device and a second locking device according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

FIG. 26 is a schematic view illustrating a first locking device and a second locking device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar constituent elements.

The terms “A or B,” “at least one of A or/and B,” or “one or more of A or/and B,” A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B or/and C,” or “one or more of A, B or/and C,” and the like used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The term of “and/or” includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

The terms as used throughout the specification, such as “˜ part”, “˜ module”, “˜ member”, “˜ block”, or the like, may be implemented in software and/or hardware, and a plurality of “˜ parts”, “˜ modules”, “˜ members”, or “˜ blocks” may be implemented in a single element, or a single “˜ part”, “˜ module”, “˜ member”, or “˜ block” may include a plurality of elements.

Herein, the expressions “a first”, “a second”, “the first”, “the second”, or the like, may simply be used to distinguish an element from other elements, but is not limited to another aspect (e.g., importance or order) of elements.

When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled,” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

In this disclosure, the terms “including”, “having”, and the like are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, elements, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

When an element is said to be “connected”, “coupled”, “supported” or “contacted” with another element, this includes not only when elements are directly connected, coupled, supported or contacted, but also when elements are indirectly connected, coupled, supported or contacted through a third element.

Throughout the description, when an element is “on” another element, this includes not only when the element is in contact with the other element, but also when there is another element between the two elements.

An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions, such as purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air conditioning space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor space”), and particularly a device having at least one of these functions.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant is circulated through a compressor, a first heat exchanger, and an expansion device and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be embedded in one housing forming an exterior of an air conditioner, which includes a window-type air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be divided and embedded in a plurality of housings forming a single air conditioner, which includes a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-type air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

The air conditioner including the plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be provided in such a way that a single outdoor unit and a single indoor unit are connected through a refrigerant pipe. Alternatively, the air conditioner may be provided in such a way that a single outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units through a refrigerant pipe. Alternatively, the air conditioner may be provided in such a way that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

The outdoor unit may be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner may be received through an input interface provided in the outdoor unit or the indoor unit. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to a user input.

The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger disposed in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe directly or indirectly connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

The outdoor heat exchanger may be configured to exchange heat between a refrigerant and outdoor air through a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, while the refrigerant is condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may radiate heat to the outdoor air. While the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, the refrigerant may absorb heat from the outdoor air.

The indoor unit is installed indoors. For example, according to the arrangement method of the indoor unit, the air conditioner may be classified into a ceiling-type indoor unit, a stand-type indoor unit, a wall-mounted indoor unit, and the like. For example, the ceiling-type indoor unit may be classified into a 4-way type indoor unit, a 2-way type indoor unit, a 1-way type indoor unit, a duct type indoor unit and the like according to a method of discharging air.

As mentioned above, the indoor heat exchanger may be configured to exchange heat between a refrigerant and outdoor air through a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation). For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant may absorb heat from the indoor air. The indoor unit may cool the indoor space by blowing the indoor air cooled by passing through the indoor heat exchanger. While the refrigerant is condensed in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may radiate heat to the indoor air. The indoor unit may heat the indoor space blowing the indoor air heated by passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

In other words, the air conditioner may perform a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of a refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor for compressing the refrigerant. The compressor may intake a refrigerant in a gaseous state (hereinafter referred to as “refrigerant gas”) through an inlet and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor may discharge high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through an outlet. The compressor may be disposed inside the outdoor unit.

Through the refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be sequentially circulated through the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the indoor heat exchanger or sequentially circulated through the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the outdoor heat exchanger. The circulation sequence of the refrigerant may vary depending on the operating mode of the air conditioner.

For example, when a single outdoor unit and a single indoor unit are directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be circulated between the single outdoor unit and the single indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

For example, when a single outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may flow from the single outdoor unit to the plurality of indoor units through branched refrigerant pipes. Refrigerants discharged from the plurality of indoor units may be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, through a separate refrigerant pipe, each of the plurality of indoor units may be directly connected in parallel to the single outdoor unit.

Each of the plurality of indoor units may be operated independently according to an operation mode set by a user. In other words, some of the plurality of indoor units may be operated in a cooling mode while others of the plurality of indoor units is operated in a heating mode. At this time, the refrigerant may be selectively introduced into each indoor unit in a high-pressure state or a low-pressure state, discharged, and circulated to the outdoor unit along a circulation path that is designated through a flow path switching valve to be described later.

For example, when two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through the plurality of refrigerant pipes, refrigerants discharged from the plurality of outdoor units may be combined and flow through one refrigerant pipe, and then diverged again at a certain point and introduced into the plurality of indoor units.

All of the plurality of outdoor units may be driven or at least some of the plurality of outdoor units may not be driven according to a driving load according to an operation amount of the plurality of indoor units. At this time, through a flow path switching valve, the refrigerant may be provided to be introduced into and circulated to an outdoor unit that is selectively driven. The air conditioner may include the expansion device to lower the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be disposed inside the indoor unit or inside the outdoor unit, or disposed inside the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

The expansion device may lower a temperature and pressure of the refrigerant by using a throttling effect. In one example, the expansion device may include an orifice that reduces a cross-sectional area of a flow path from upstream to downstream along the flow of the refrigerant. A temperature and pressure of the refrigerant passing through the orifice may be lowered.

For example, the expansion device may be implemented as an electronic expansion valve configured to adjust an opening ratio (a ratio of a cross-sectional area of a flow path of a valve in a partially opened state to a cross-sectional area of the flow path of the valve in a fully open state). According to the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device may be adjusted.

The air conditioner may further include a flow path switching valve disposed on the refrigerant circulation path. The flow path switching valve may include a 4-way valve. The flow path switching valve may determine a refrigerant circulation path depending on an operation mode of the indoor unit (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). For example, the flow path switching valve may be connected to the outlet of the compressor.

The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the inlet of the compressor. A low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant, which is evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger, may flow into the accumulator.

When a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant in a liquid state (hereinafter referred to as refrigerant liquid”) and refrigerant gas is introduced, the accumulator may separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas, and supply the refrigerant gas, from which the refrigerant liquid is separated, to the compressor.

An outdoor fan may be disposed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as “outdoor unit sensor”). For example, the outdoor unit sensor may be provided as an environment sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be disposed at a certain position of the inside or the outside of the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor configured to detect an air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor configured to detect air humidity around the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect a refrigerant temperature in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor configured to detect a refrigerant pressure in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication circuitry. The outdoor unit communication circuitry may be configured to receive a control signal generated by an indoor unit controller of the air conditioner, which will be described later. Based on a control signal received through the outdoor unit communication circuitry, the outdoor unit may control the operation of the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, the flow path switching valve, the accumulator, or the outdoor fan. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected by the outdoor unit sensor to the indoor unit controller through the outdoor unit communication circuitry.

The outdoor unit communication circuitry may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower configured to circulate air inside or outside the housing, and the indoor heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with air introduced into the housing.

The housing may include an inlet. Indoor air may flow into the housing through the inlet.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter provided to filter out foreign substance in air that is introduced into the inside of the housing through the inlet.

The housing may include an outlet. Air flowing inside the housing may be discharged to the outside of the housing through the outlet.

The indoor unit may include an airflow guide configured to guide a direction of air discharged through the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include a blade positioned in the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for regulating an exhaust airflow, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the airflow guide may be omitted.

The indoor heat exchanger and the blower arranged on a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet may be disposed inside the housing of the indoor unit.

The blower may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. For example, the indoor fan may include an axial fan, a mixed flow fan, a cross flow fan and a centrifugal fan.

The indoor heat exchanger may be arranged between the blower and the outlet or between the inlet and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air introduced through the inlet or transfer heat to air introduced through the inlet. The indoor heat exchanger may include a heat exchange tube through which a refrigerant flows, and a heat exchanger fin in contact with the heat exchange tube to increase a heat transfer area.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray disposed below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensed water contained in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means including a button, a switch, a touch screen and/or a touch pad. A user input regarding setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, cooling/heating/dehumidifying/air cleaning operation mode setting, outlet selection setting, and/or air volume setting) may be received through the input interface.

The input interface may be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location (e.g., a part of a wall) in an indoor space. The wired remote controller may receive setting data related to the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. Further, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The wireless remote controller may receive the setting data for the operation of the air conditioner as a user input. The setting data received through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

Further, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be obtained through the microphone. The microphone may convert a user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to the indoor unit controller. The indoor unit controller may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. The setting data obtained through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, cooling/heating/dehumidifying/air cleaning operation mode setting, outlet selection setting, and/or air volume setting) may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller to be described later. For example, the setting data obtained through the input interface may be transmitted to the outside, that is, to the outdoor unit or a server through an indoor unit communication circuitry to be described later.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to components of the indoor unit.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environment sensor disposed inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and/or humidity sensors disposed in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of an entrance, a middle portion and/or an exit of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

For example, each sensor information detected by the indoor unit sensor may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller to be described later or transmitted to the outside through the indoor unit communication circuitry to be described later.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include the indoor unit communication circuitry. The indoor unit communication circuitry may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module. The indoor unit communication circuitry may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with other devices.

The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a wireless local area network (WLAN) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include a mobile communication circuitry. The mobile communication circuitry transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

The indoor unit communication circuitry may communicate with an external device, such as a server, a mobile device and other home appliances through an access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN), to which an air conditioner or a user device is connected, to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server is connected. The air conditioner or the user device may be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include the indoor unit controller configured to control components of the indoor unit including the blower. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit controller configured to control components of the outdoor unit including the compressor. The indoor unit controller may communicate with the outdoor unit controller through the indoor unit communication circuitry and the outdoor unit communication circuitry. The outdoor unit communication circuitry may transmit a control signal generated by the outdoor unit controller to the indoor unit communication circuitry, or transmit a control signal, which is transmitted from the indoor unit communication circuitry, to the outdoor unit controller. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may perform bi-directional communication. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may transmit and receive various signals generated during operation of the air conditioner.

The outdoor unit controller may be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and may control operations of each component. For example, the outdoor unit controller may adjust a frequency of the compressor and control the flow path switching valve to change a circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit controller may adjust a rotational speed of the outdoor fan. Further, the outdoor unit controller may generate a control signal for adjusting the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit controller, the refrigerant may be circulated along the refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow path switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

Various temperature sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may transmit electrical signals corresponding to detected temperatures to the outdoor unit controller and/or the indoor unit controller. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may respectively transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit controller and/or the indoor unit controller.

The indoor unit controller may obtain a user input from a user device including a mobile device through the indoor unit communication circuitry, or directly obtain a user input through the input interface or the remote controller. The indoor unit controller may control components of the indoor unit including the blower in response to the received user input. The indoor unit controller may transmit information related to the received user input to the outdoor unit controller of the outdoor unit.

The outdoor unit controller may control components of the outdoor unit including the compressor based on the information related to the user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as a cooling operation, a heating operation, a fan operation, a defrosting operation, or a dehumidifying operation is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit controller may control components of the outdoor unit to perform an operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the selected operation mode.

The outdoor unit controller and indoor unit controller may include a processor and memory, respectively. The indoor unit controller may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit controller may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

The memory may memorize/store various types of information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory may store instructions, applications, data and/or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory may store various programs for the cooling operation, the heating operation, the dehumidifying operation, and/or the defrosting operation of the air conditioner. The memory may include volatile memory, such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory may include non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

The processor may generate a control signal for controlling an operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in the memory. The processor may be hardware and may include a logic circuit and an arithmetic circuit. The processor may process data according to a program and/or instructions provided from the memory, and may generate a control signal according to a processing result. The memory and the processor may be implemented as one control circuit or as a plurality of circuits.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface may be electrically connected to the indoor unit controller, and output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit controller. For example, the output interface may output information, such as an operation mode selected by a user input, a wind direction, a wind volume, and a temperature. Further, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from the indoor unit sensor or the outdoor unit sensor, and output warning/error messages.

The output interfaces may include a display and a speaker. The speaker may be a sound device and configured to output various sounds. The display may display information, which is input by a user or provided to a user, as various graphic elements. For example, operation information of the air conditioner may be displayed as at least one of an image and text. Further, the display may include an indicator providing specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, a micro-LED panel, and/or a plurality of LEDs.

It should be appreciated that the blocks in each flowchart and combinations of the flowcharts may be performed by one or more computer programs which include computer-executable instructions. The entirety of the one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device or the one or more computer programs may be divided with different portions stored in different multiple memory devices.

Any of the functions or operations described herein can be processed by one processor or a combination of processors. The one processor or the combination of processors is circuitry performing processing and includes circuitry like an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphical processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (IC), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or the like. Hereinafter, embodiments according to the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

For convenience of explanation, a window-type air conditioner 3 mounted on a window and/or a window frame will be described as an example. However, the content of the disclosure may also be applicable to other types of air conditioners. For example, the disclosure may be applied to portable air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioners, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, and floor-standing air conditioners. For example, the disclosure may also be applied to an indoor unit or an outdoor unit of a split-type air conditioning system.

For example, referring to FIG. 1, the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces the indoor space I may be defined as the front direction (+X direction), and the direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces the exterior O may be defined as the rear direction (−X direction). For example, the height direction of the air conditioner 3 may be defined as the vertical direction (or up-down direction) (Z direction). However, such definitions are based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

FIG. 1 illustrates an air conditioning apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The air conditioning apparatus 1 may include a mounting device 2.

The mounting device 2 may be configured to mount an air conditioner 3, which will be described later, to a structure A. The mounting device 2 may be configured to support the air conditioner 3. The mounting device 2 may allow the air conditioner 3 to be installed on the structure A.

The mounting device 2 may be configured to be mountable to the structure A. The mounting device 2 may be configured to be fixable to the structure A. The mounting device 2 may be configured to be installable on the structure A.

The mounting device 2 may be configured to seal between the air conditioner 3 and the structure A. The mounting device 2 may be configured to block between the indoor space I and the outdoor space O.

The mounting device 2 may be referred to as a mounting assembly 2, a mounting unit 2, a mounting kit 2, a support assembly 2, a support unit 2, a support kit 2, a support device 2, an installation assembly 2, an installation unit 2, an installation kit 2, or an installation device 2.

For example, the structure A may include a window frame and/or a window. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure A may be variously configured depending on the type of the air conditioner 3. For example, the structure A may include at least one of a wall, a ceiling, or a floor. In the drawings, an example in which the structure A is a window frame A is illustrated. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the structure A may also be referred to as the window frame A. However, the disclosure is not limited to what is shown in the drawings, and it is sufficient for the structure A to include a structure to which the air conditioner 3 is mounted.

The air conditioning apparatus 1 may include the air conditioner 3.

The air conditioner 3 may be configured to be mounted on the mounting device 2. The air conditioner 3 may be configured to be mounted on the structure A as the air conditioner 3 is mounted on the mounting device 2. The air conditioner 3 may be installed on the structure A through the mounting device 2.

For example, a portion of the air conditioner 3 may be configured to face a first space (e.g., an indoor space I). For example, another portion of the air conditioner 3 may be configured to face a second space (e.g., an outdoor space O).

The air conditioning apparatus 1 may include the air conditioner 3 and the mounting device 2 configured such that the air conditioner 3 is mounted thereon.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an air conditioner shown in FIG. 2 from another direction according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a plan cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The air conditioner 3 may include a housing 10. The housing 10 may be configured to form the overall exterior appearance of the air conditioner 3. The housing 10 may have a substantially box-shaped configuration.

For example, the housing 10 may include a front case 10a. For example, the housing 10 may include a rear case 10b. The front case 10a and the rear case 10b may be detachably coupled to each other.

The front case 10a may be configured to face the indoor space I (see FIG. 1). For example, the front case 10a may be configured to form at least a portion of a front exterior of the air conditioner 3.

The rear case 10b may be configured to face the outdoor space O (see FIG. 1). For example, the rear case 10b may be configured to form at least a portion of a rear exterior of the air conditioner 3.

For example, the housing 10 may include a front panel 14. The front panel 14 may form a front surface of the air conditioner 3.

For example, the housing 10 may include a top panel 15. The top panel 15 may form an upper surface of the air conditioner 3.

For example, the housing 10 may include a first side panel 16. The first side panel 16 may form a right side surface of the air conditioner 3.

For example, the housing 10 may include a second side panel 17. The second side panel 17 may form a left side surface of the air conditioner 3. The second side panel 17 may be provided on a side opposite to the first side panel 16.

For example, the housing 10 may include a rear panel 18. The rear panel 18 may form a rear surface of the air conditioner 3.

For example, the housing 10 may include a bottom panel. The bottom panel may form a bottom surface of the air conditioner 3. The bottom panel may be configured to support at least a part of components disposed inside the air conditioner 3.

For example, the front case 10a may include a front panel 14, a top panel 15, a first side panel 16, and a second side panel 17. For example, the rear case 10b may include a rear panel 18. However, each of the front case 10a and the rear case 10b may be configured to include various combinations of panels.

The housing 10 may include a first inlet 31 through which outdoor air is introduced. The outdoor air may be introduced into the housing 10 through the first inlet 31.

The first inlet 31 may be disposed to face the outside O (see FIG. 1). The first inlet 31 may be in communication with the outside O. For example, the first inlet 31 may be formed in the rear case 10b so that outdoor air is introduced. For example, the first inlet 31 may be formed in the rear panel 18. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that the first inlet 31 is formed in a portion of the housing 10 that faces the outside O.

The housing 10 may include a first outlet 32 through which the outdoor air that has passed through a first heat exchanger 40 is discharged. The outdoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the first inlet 31 may be discharged to the outside O through the first outlet 32 after exchanging heat with the first heat exchanger 40.

The first outlet 32 may be disposed to face the outside O (see FIG. 1). The first outlet 32 may be in communication with the outside O. For example, the first outlet 32 may be formed in the rear case 10b. For example, the first outlet 32 may be formed in the rear panel 18. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that the first outlet 32 is formed in a portion of the housing 10 that faces the outside O.

The first outlet 32 may be distinct from the first inlet 31. The first outlet 32 may be formed to be spaced apart from the first inlet 31.

A first flow path P1 (see FIG. 4) may be formed inside the housing 10. Outdoor air may flow on the first flow path P1. The first flow path P1 may be formed between the first inlet 31 and the first outlet 32. For example, the first heat exchanger 40 may be provided on the first flow path P1. For example, a first fan 70 may be provided on the first flow path P1.

The housing 10 may include a second inlet 51 through which indoor air is introduced. Indoor air may be introduced into the housing 10 through the second inlet 51.

The second inlet 51 may be disposed to face the indoor space I (see FIG. 1). The second inlet 51 may be in communication with the indoor space I. For example, the second inlet 51 may be formed in the front case 10a such that indoor air is introduced therethrough. For example, the second inlet 51 may be formed in the second side panel 17. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second inlet 51 may be formed in a portion of the housing 10 that faces the indoor space I.

The housing 10 may include a second outlet 52 through which indoor air, having passed through a second heat exchanger 60, is discharged. The indoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the second inlet 51 may be discharged to the outdoor space O through the second outlet 52 after heat exchange with the second heat exchanger 60.

The second outlet 52 may be disposed to face the indoor space I (see FIG. 1). The second outlet 52 may be in communication with the indoor space I. For example, the second outlet 52 may be formed in the front case 10a. For example, the second outlet 52 may be formed in the front panel 14. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that the second outlet 52 may be sufficiently formed in a portion of the housing 10 facing the indoor space I.

The second outlet 52 may be distinct from the second inlet 51. The second outlet 52 may be formed to be spaced apart from the second inlet 51.

A second flow path P2 (see FIG. 4) may be formed inside the housing 10. Indoor air may flow along the second flow path P2. The second flow path P2 may be formed between the second inlet 51 and the second outlet 52. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 may be provided on the second flow path P2. For example, a second fan 80 may be provided on the second flow path P2.

The first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2 may be provided to be partitioned from each other. Outdoor air flowing through the first flow path P1 and indoor air flowing through the second flow path P2 may not be mixed with each other inside the housing 10.

The air conditioner 3 may include a blade 20. The blade 20 may be configured to guide indoor air discharged through the second outlet 52. The blade 20 may be configured to control a discharge direction of air discharged into the indoor space through the second outlet 52.

The blade 20 may be provided to open or cover the second outlet 52. The blade 20 may have a shape corresponding to the second outlet 52.

The blade 20 may be detachably coupled to the housing 10. The blade 20 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 10. For example, the blade 20 may be rotatably coupled to the front panel 14.

For example, the blade 20 may include a plurality of discharge holes 21. For example, in a state where the blade 20 covers the second outlet 52, indoor air that has passed through the second heat exchanger 60 may be discharged through the plurality of discharge holes 21.

The air conditioner 3 may include a first heat exchanger 40. The first heat exchanger 40 may be provided to exchange heat with outdoor air introduced through the first inlet 31. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed on the first flow path P1. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed to face the first inlet 31.

The air conditioner 3 may include a second heat exchanger 60. The second heat exchanger 60 may be provided to exchange heat with indoor air introduced through the second inlet 51. The second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed on the second flow path P2. At least a portion of the second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed to face the second inlet 51. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 may be provided to surround at least a portion of the second fan 80.

For example, the first heat exchanger 40 may be provided as a condenser, and the second heat exchanger 60 may be provided as an evaporator. In this case, the air conditioner 3 may be configured to cool the indoor space. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first heat exchanger 40 may be provided as an evaporator, and the second heat exchanger 60 may be provided as a condenser. In this case, the air conditioner 3 may be configured to heat the indoor space.

The air conditioner 3 may include a first fan 70. The first fan 70 may generate blowing force. The first fan 70 may be provided to blow outdoor air. The first fan 70 may be provided to circulate outdoor air inside the housing 10. The first fan 70 may be provided to circulate outdoor air between the first inlet 31 and the first outlet 32. The first fan 70 may be disposed to face at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 40.

The air conditioner 3 may include a second fan 80. The second fan 80 may generate blowing force. The second fan 80 may be provided to blow indoor air. The second fan 80 may be provided to circulate indoor air inside the housing 10. The second fan 80 may be provided to circulate indoor air between the second inlet 51 and the second outlet 52. The second fan 80 may be disposed to face at least a portion of the second heat exchanger 60.

The air conditioner 3 may include a control box 19. The control box 19 may include a circuit board. The control box 19 may include various electronic components. The control box 19 may control the operation of the air conditioner 3. For example, the control box 19 may be disposed between the front panel 14 and the first fan 70.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a mounting device shown in FIG. 5 from another direction according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a fixing frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a moving frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The mounting device 2 may include a frame that is mountable to the structure A.

For example, the mounting device 2 may include a fixing frame 100. For example, the mounting device 2 may include a moving frame 200. For example, the frame may include the fixing frame 100 and/or the moving frame 200. However, unlike what is illustrated in the drawings, the frame may be provided as a single component.

The fixing frame 100 may be mounted to the structure A (see FIGS. 10 to 12). The fixing frame 100 may be fixed to the structure A. The fixing frame 100 may be provided to be fixable to a lower portion 5 of the structure A.

The fixing frame 100 may be provided to support the air conditioner 3. The fixing frame 100 may be provided to support a housing 10 of the air conditioner 3. For example, when the air conditioner 3 is mounted to the mounting device 2, the fixing frame 100 may be provided to surround the housing 10 of the air conditioner 3. For example, the fixing frame 100 may have a shape corresponding to the housing 10 of the air conditioner 3. For example, the fixing frame 100 may have a substantially rectangular shape.

The fixing frame 100 may include a first frame part 110. The first frame part 110 may be provided to support the air conditioner 3. The first frame part 110 may support a lower surface of the air conditioner 3. The first frame part 110 may be fixed to a lower portion 5 of the structure A. The first frame part 110 may be mounted to the lower portion 5 of the structure A. The first frame part 110 may be supported by the lower portion 5 of the structure A. The first frame part 110 may have a shape extending substantially in a horizontal direction (Y direction). The first frame part 110 of the fixing frame 100 may be referred to as a lower frame part of the fixing frame 100.

The fixing frame 100 may include a second frame part 120. The second frame part 120 may extend upward from one side of the first frame part 110. The second frame part 120 may have a shape extending substantially in a vertical direction (Z direction). The second frame part 120 may be provided to contact a first side panel 16 of the air conditioner 3. The second frame part 120 of the fixing frame 100 may be referred to as a first side frame part of the fixing frame 100.

The fixing frame 100 may include a third frame part 130. The third frame part 130 may extend from the other side of the first frame part 110 to be parallel with the second frame part 120. The third frame part 130 may extend upward from the other side of the first frame part 110. The third frame part 130 may have a shape extending substantially in a vertical direction (Z direction). The third frame part 130 may be provided to contact a second side panel 17 of the air conditioner 3. The third frame part 130 of the fixing frame 100 may be referred to as a second side frame part of the fixing frame 100.

The fixing frame 100 may include a fourth frame part 140. The fourth frame part 140 may connect the second frame part 120 and the third frame part 130. The fourth frame part 140 may connect upper ends of the second frame part 120 and the third frame part 130. The fourth frame part 140 may have a shape extending substantially in a horizontal direction (Y direction). The fourth frame part 140 may be provided to contact a top panel 15. The fourth frame part 140 of the fixing frame 100 may be referred to as an upper frame part of the fixing frame 100.

The fixing frame 100 may include a mounting opening 150. The air conditioner 3 may be mounted to the fixing frame 100 through the mounting opening 150. The housing 10 of the air conditioner 3 may be placed in the mounting opening 150. The mounting opening 150 may be formed by the first frame part 110, the second frame part 120, the third frame part 130, and the fourth frame part 140. The mounting opening 150 may be defined by the first frame part 110, the second frame part 120, the third frame part 130, and the fourth frame part 140.

The fixing frame 100 may include a lower fixing bracket 160. The lower fixing bracket 160 may be provided on the first frame part 110. The lower fixing bracket 160 may be provided to contact the lower portion 5 of the structure A. For example, a first fastening member 190 may closely fasten the lower fixing bracket 160 to the lower portion 5 of the structure A.

The fixing frame 100 may include an elevating guide part 170 to guide an elevating movement of the moving frame 200. The elevating guide part 170 may include a first moving rail 171 formed on the second frame part 120. The first moving rail 171 may extend along the extending direction of the second frame part 120. The first moving rail 171 may extend substantially in a vertical direction (Z direction). The elevating guide part 170 may include a second moving rail 172 formed on the third frame part 130. The second moving rail 172 may extend along the extending direction of the third frame part 130. The second moving rail 172 may extend substantially in a vertical direction (Z direction).

The fixing frame 100 may include a fixing panel 180. The fixing panel 180 may be disposed adjacent to the structure A to prevent the mounting device 2 from being overturned. Although the drawings illustrate the fixing panel 180 as being formed on the second frame part 120, it is not limited thereto. For example, the fixing panel 180 may be formed on the third frame part 130. For example, the fixing panel 180 may be formed on both the second frame part 120 and the third frame part 130.

The moving frame 200 may be mounted to the structure A (see FIGS. 11 and 12). The moving frame 200 may be fixed to the structure A. The moving frame 200 may be provided to be fixed to an upper portion 4 of the structure A.

The moving frame 200 may be provided to move up and down relative to the fixing frame 100. The moving frame 200 may be provided to move vertically relative to the fixing frame 100. The moving frame 200 may be provided to move relative to the fixing frame 100. The moving frame 200 may be provided to move along a substantially vertical direction (Z-direction). The moving frame 200 may be provided to be drawn out from the fixing frame 100. The moving frame 200 may be provided to be inserted into the fixing frame 100.

The moving frame 200 may include a fifth frame part 220. The fifth frame part 220 may extend along the moving direction of the moving frame 200. The fifth frame part 220 may be provided to move relative to the second frame part 120 of the fixing frame 100. The fifth frame part 220 may be configured to move up and down relative to the second frame part 120 of the fixing frame 100. The fifth frame part 220 may be provided to move along the first moving rail 171 formed in the second frame part 120. The fifth frame part 220 may be provided to slide along the first moving rail 171. The fifth frame part 220 may be provided to be drawn out from and inserted into the first moving rail 171. The fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200 may be referred to as the first side frame part of the moving frame 200.

The moving frame 200 may include a sixth frame part 230. The sixth frame part 230 may extend along the moving direction of the moving frame 200. The sixth frame part 230 may extend in parallel with the fifth frame part 220. The sixth frame part 230 may be provided to move relative to the third frame part 130 of the fixing frame 100. The sixth frame part 230 may be configured to move up and down relative to the third frame part 130 of the fixing frame 100. The sixth frame part 230 may be provided to move along the second moving rail 172 formed in the third frame part 130. The sixth frame part 230 may be provided to slide along the second moving rail 172. The sixth frame part 230 may be provided to be drawn out from and inserted into the second moving rail 172. The sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200 may be referred to as the second side frame part of the moving frame 200.

The moving frame 200 may include a seventh frame part 240. The seventh frame part 240 may be configured to be fixed to the upper portion 4 of the structure A. The seventh frame part 240 may be provided to connect the fifth frame part 220 and the sixth frame part 230. The seventh frame part 240 may be provided to connect an upper end of the fifth frame part 220 and an upper end of the sixth frame part 230. The seventh frame part 240 may have a shape extending along a substantially horizontal direction (Y-direction). The seventh frame part 240 of the moving frame 200 may be referred to as the upper frame part of the moving frame 200.

The moving frame 200 may include a screen 250. The screen 250 may be provided to cover a region surrounded by the fixing frame 100, the fifth frame part 220, the sixth frame part 230, and the seventh frame part 240.

The screen 250 may be provided to cover a space between the air conditioner 3 and the structure A. For example, the screen 250 may be configured to block communication between the indoor side I and the outdoor side O (see FIG. 1).

For example, the screen 250 may include a plurality of cover panels 251. The plurality of cover panels 251 may be arranged along a moving direction of the moving frame 200. The plurality of cover panels 251 may be arranged in a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, two adjacent panels among the plurality of cover panels 251 may be detachably coupled to each other. The plurality of cover panels 251 may be provided in various numbers depending on a shape and/or size of the structure A. Unlike what is illustrated in the drawings, the screen 250 may include a single cover panel 251.

The moving frame 200 may include an upper fixing bracket 260. The upper fixing bracket 260 may be provided on the seventh frame part 240. The upper fixing bracket 260 may be provided to come into contact with an upper portion 4 of the structure A. For example, a second fastening member 290 may bring the upper fixing bracket 260 into close contact with the upper portion 4 of the structure A.

The mounting device 2 may include a locking device 300. The locking device 300 may be provided to restrict movement of the moving frame 200. For example, the locking device 300 may be provided to allow upward movement of the moving frame 200 relative to the fixing frame 100, but to restrict downward movement of the moving frame 200 relative to the fixing frame 100.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a plurality of locking devices 300 may be provided. For example, the plurality of locking devices 300 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along a substantially horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, the mounting device 2 may include a first locking device 300a disposed adjacent to the fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200, and a second locking device 300b disposed adjacent to the sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200. For example, the first locking device 300a may be provided to restrict movement of the fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200. For example, the first locking device 300a may be provided to allow upward movement of the fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200, but to restrict downward movement of the fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200. For example, the second locking device 300b may be provided to restrict movement of the sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200. For example, the second locking device 300b may be provided to allow upward movement of the sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200, but to restrict downward movement of the sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200. Unlike what is illustrated in the drawings, the locking device 300 may be implemented as a single component. For example, one of the first locking device 300a or the second locking device 300b may be omitted. For example, the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b may have substantially the same configuration. However, depending on the case, the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b may be provided to have different configurations (see FIGS. 25 and 26).

Meanwhile, the first locking device 300a may be referred to as a right locking device 300a. The second locking device 300b may be referred to as a left locking device 300b.

A detailed description of each component of the locking device 300 will be provided later.

FIG. 10 illustrates a fixing frame is fixed to a structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a moving frame is fixed to a structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a plurality of cover panels are removed from a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, and 12, an example of a process in which the mounting device 2 is mounted to the structure A will be described.

Referring to FIG. 10, the fixing frame 100 may be fixed to the structure A. The fixing frame 100 may be fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A. The first frame part 110 of the fixing frame 100 may be fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A.

For example, in a state in which the lower fixing bracket 160 of the fixing frame 100 corresponds to the lower portion 5 of the structure A, the first fastening member 190 may be fastened to the lower fixing bracket 160. The first fastening member 190 may closely attach the lower fixing bracket 160 to the lower portion 5 of the structure A.

Referring to FIG. 11, in a state in which the fixing frame 100 is fixed, the moving frame 200 may move up and down. The moving frame 200 may move up and down relative to the fixing frame 100 and be fixed to the structure A. In a state in which the fixing frame 100 is fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A, the moving frame 200 may move toward the upper portion 4 of the structure A and be fixed thereto. The moving frame 200 may be movable up and down in accordance with the shape and/or size of the structure A.

For example, in a state in which the upper fixing bracket 260 of the moving frame 200 corresponds to the upper portion 4 of the structure A, the second fastening member 290 may be fastened to the upper fixing bracket 260. The second fastening member 290 may closely attach the upper fixing bracket 260 to the upper portion 4 of the structure A.

Referring to FIG. 12, in a state in which the fixing frame 100 is fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A and the moving frame 200 is fixed to the upper portion 4 of the structure A, a portion of the screen 250 may be removed. For example, at least one cover panel among the plurality of cover panels 251 that covers a region surrounded by the fixing frame 100 may be removed from the mounting device 2. For example, at least one cover panel among the plurality of cover panels 251 that covers the mounting opening 150 of the fixing frame 100 may be removed from the mounting device 2. Accordingly, the mounting device 2 may secure a space for mounting the air conditioner 3.

FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a portion of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional plan view of a mounting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, an example of the locking device 300 will be described. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the third frame part 130 may be referred to as a first side part, the sixth frame part 230 may be referred to as a second side part, and the fourth frame part 140 may be referred to as an upper part 140.

However, the contents illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 15 are applicable not only to the second locking device 300b disposed adjacent to the sixth frame part 230 of the moving frame 200, but also to the first locking device 300a disposed adjacent to the fifth frame part 220 of the moving frame 200. For example, the description of the third frame part 130 below is equally applicable to the second frame part 120, and the description of the sixth frame part 230 is equally applicable to the fifth frame part 220.

The mounting device 2 may include a rail 310. The locking device 300 may include a rail 310.

The rail 310 may be provided on the moving frame 200. The rail 310 may be movable up and down together with the moving frame 200. The rail 310 may extend along the moving direction of the moving frame 200.

For example, the rail 310 may extend in a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the rail 310 may be provided on the inner side of the second side part. For example, the rail 310 may be configured to be movable upward along the elevating guide part 170 formed on the first side part together with the second side part. In this case, the rail 310 may be configured to be drawn out from the elevating guide part 170 together with the second side part. For example, the rail 310 may be configured to be movable downward along the elevating guide part 170 formed on the first side part together with the second side part. In this case, the rail 310 may be configured to be inserted into the elevating guide part 170 together with the second side part. For example, the rail 310 may be disposed on at least one of the fifth frame part 220 or the sixth frame part 230.

The rail 310 may have a teeth 311 extending along the moving direction of the moving frame 200. For example, the teeth 311 may extend in a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, the teeth 311 may protrude inward of the moving frame 200. For example, the teeth 311 may be exposed inward of the moving frame 200.

The teeth 311 may have a tapered shape 312 that narrows upward. When a locking protrusion 321 of a moving shaft 320, which will be described later, is engaged with the teeth 311 of the rail 310, the moving frame 200 may be configured to be movable upward and restricted from moving downward.

For example, when a force is applied to move the moving frame 200 upward relative to the fixing frame 100 in a state where the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 are engaged, the rail 310 may be configured to move upward together with the moving frame 200 and push the moving shaft 320 in a second direction D2. The moving shaft 320 may move in the second direction D2 by the rail 310, and may immediately return in a first direction D1 by a spring 340, which will be described later. When the moving frame 200 moves upward, the moving shaft 320 may elastically reciprocate. Accordingly, in the engaged state of the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311, the moving frame 200 may move upward.

For example, when a force is applied to move the moving frame 200 downward relative to the fixing frame 100 in a state where the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 are engaged, the teeth 311 may be configured to catch on the locking protrusion 321. For example, a horizontal surface of the teeth 311 may be configured to contact a horizontal surface of the locking protrusion 321. Accordingly, in the engaged state of the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311, the downward movement of the moving frame 200 may be restricted.

For example, an inclination angle α of the teeth 311 with respect to the horizontal direction may be about 50 degrees (see FIGS. 17 and 19). However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the inclination angle α of the teeth 311 with respect to the horizontal direction may be variously set. The inclination angle α of the teeth 311 with respect to the horizontal direction only needs to be within a range that allows the upward movement of the moving frame 200 in the engaged state of the teeth 311 and the locking protrusion 321, while preventing the downward movement of the moving frame 200.

For example, the rail 310 may be configured to be detachably coupled to the moving frame 200. For example, the second side part of the moving frame 200 may include a first engaging portion 231, and the rail 310 may include a second engaging portion 314 that is engageable with the first engaging portion 231 (see FIG. 15). For example, the first engaging portion 231 may have a groove shape, and the second engaging portion 314 may have a protruding shape to be inserted into the groove. However, the disclosure is not limited to the above examples, and the rail 310 may be provided on the moving frame 200 by various known coupling methods. Alternatively, the rail 310 may be integrally formed with the moving frame 200.

The mounting device 2 may include a moving shaft 320. The locking device 300 may include the moving shaft 320.

The moving shaft 320 may be provided on the fixing frame 100.

For example, the moving shaft 320 may be disposed on the upper part 140 of the fixing frame 100. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be disposed on the upper surface 141 of the upper part 140.

The moving shaft 320 may be movable in a first direction D1 that approaches the teeth 311 of the rail 310. The moving shaft 320 may be movable in a second direction D2 that moves away from the teeth 311 of the rail 310. For example, the second direction D2 may be opposite to the first direction D1.

For example, the moving shaft 320 may be movable along an extending direction of the upper part 140. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be movable in an approximately horizontal direction (Y direction).

The moving shaft 320 may include a locking protrusion 321. The locking protrusion 321 may be provided to correspond to the teeth 311. The locking protrusion 321 may be configured to engage with the teeth 311. The locking protrusion 321 may be provided at a first end of the moving shaft 320. The locking protrusion 321 may be formed at the first end of the moving shaft 320. The locking protrusion 321 may be formed on a side of the moving shaft 320 adjacent to the rail 310.

The moving shaft 320 may include an engaging protrusion 323. The engaging protrusion 323 may be formed at a second end of the moving shaft 320. The engaging protrusion 323 may be formed on a side of the moving shaft 320 distant from the rail 310. The engaging protrusion 323 may be provided to be coupled to a handle 330, which will be described later. The engaging protrusion 323 may be provided to be inserted into an engaging hole 331 of the handle 330, which will be described later.

The moving shaft 320 may include an extending portion 322. The extending portion 322 may extend along a moving direction of the moving shaft 320. The extending portion 322 may extend between a first end and a second end of the moving shaft 320. A spring 340, which will be described later, may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the extending portion 322.

The moving shaft 320 may include a supporting portion 324. The supporting portion 324 may be provided to contact one side of the spring 340, which will be described later. The supporting portion 324 may be configured to press the spring 340. For example, the supporting portion 324 may be provided to have a size greater than a diameter of the spring 340. For example, the supporting portion 324 may have a shape protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the extending portion 322.

The mounting device 2 may include a handle 330. The locking device 300 may include the handle 330.

The handle 330 may be provided at a second end of the moving shaft 320. For example, the handle 330 may be disposed on a side of the moving shaft 320 distant from the rail 310. For example, the handle 330 may be provided at the second end of the moving shaft 320 by being coupled to the second end of the moving shaft 320.

For example, the handle 330 may include an engaging hole 331 detachably coupled to an engaging protrusion 323 of the moving shaft 320. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the handle 330 may include the engaging protrusion while the moving shaft 320 may include the engaging hole. In addition, the handle 330 may be integrally formed with the moving shaft 320.

The handle 330 may be provided to move the moving shaft 320. The handle 330 may be provided to move the moving shaft 320 in a second direction D2. As the handle 330 moves the moving shaft 320 in the second direction D2, the locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 320 and the teeth 311 of the rail 310 may be separated from each other. As the handle 330 moves the moving shaft 320 in the second direction D2, the locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 320 may not interfere with the teeth 311 of the rail 310.

For example, as the handle 330 is pressed in the second direction D2, the moving shaft 320 connected to the handle 330 may move in the second direction D2. For example, a user or the like may move the moving shaft 320 in the second direction D2 by pulling the handle 330 in the second direction D2 while holding the handle 330.

For example, the handle 330 may be configured to be fixed by the handle locking part 351 described below. For example, the handle 330 may be configured to be fixed to the handle locking part 351 by moving a predetermined distance in the second direction D2. For example, the handle 330 may be configured to be movable on an inclined surface 351a of the handle locking part 351, and to be latched to the handle locking part 351 when displaced from the inclined surface 351a of the handle locking part 351 in the second direction D2 (see FIGS. 20 to 23). However, the disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and the handle 330 may be fixed to the handle locking part 351 by various fixing methods.

For example, the handle 330 may include an inclined surface 332. For example, the inclined surface 332 of the handle 330 may be configured to correspond to the inclined surface 351a of the handle locking part 351 described below.

The mounting device 2 may include a handle locking part 351. The locking device 300 may include the handle locking part 351.

The handle locking part 351 may be configured to fix the handle 330. The handle locking part 351 may restrict movement of the moving shaft 320 in the first direction D1 while the moving shaft 320 is in a state of having been moved in the second direction D2 by the handle 330. For example, in a state where the handle 330 is fixed by the handle locking part 351, the moving shaft 320 may be restricted from moving in the first direction D1.

For example, the handle locking part 351 may be configured to interfere with the handle 330. For example, the handle locking part 351 may be configured to be contactable with the handle 330. For example, the handle 330 may be configured to be latched to the handle locking part 351.

For example, the handle locking part 351 may include an inclined surface 351a that inclines upward along the second direction D2. For example, the height of the inclined surface 351a of the handle locking part 351 may gradually increase along the second direction D2.

The mounting device 2 may include a spring 340. The locking device 300 may include the spring 340.

The spring 340 may be configured to elastically bias the moving shaft 320 in the first direction D1. By elastically biasing the moving shaft 320, the spring 340 may cause the locking protrusion 321 to engage with the teeth 311. The moving shaft 320 may move toward the rail 310 by the elastic restoring force of the spring 340.

For example, in a state in which the handle locking part 351 does not fix the handle 330, the locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 320 may be maintained in an engaged state with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 by the spring 340. For example, in a state in which the handle locking part 351 does not fix the handle 330, the spring 340 may cause the locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 320 and the teeth 311 of the rail 310 to be constantly pressed against each other. For example, unless the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may remain in a pressed state by the elastic restoring force of the spring 340.

For example, the spring 340 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the moving shaft 320. For example, it may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the extending portion 322. For example, the spring 340 may be configured to be pressed by the moving shaft 320. For example, while the spring 340 is pressed in the second direction D2 by the supporting portion 324 of the moving shaft 320, the spring 340 may have an elastic restoring force in the first direction D1.

The mounting device 2 may include a case 350. The locking device 300 may include a case 350.

The case 350 may accommodate some components of the locking device 300.

The case 350 may accommodate at least a portion of the moving shaft 320. The moving shaft 320 may be configured to be movable inside the case 350.

For example, the case 350 may include a first through-hole 352. The locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 320 may be configured to pass through the first through-hole 352. For example, the case 350 may include a second through-hole 353. A portion of the extending portion 322 of the moving shaft 320 may be configured to be movable within the second through-hole 353.

The case 350 may accommodate the spring 340. The spring 340 may be configured to be stretched or compressed inside the case 350. For example, the spring 340 may be disposed between the supporting portion 324 of the moving shaft 320 and the second through-hole 353 of the case 350.

The case 350 may be detachably coupled to the fixing frame 100. For example, the case 350 may be detachably coupled to the upper surface 141 of the upper part 140.

For example, the case 350 may include a first fixing part 354. For example, the first fixing part 354 may be provided as an insertion protrusion and configured to be engaged with an insertion groove 142 formed in the upper part 140. For example, the case 350 may include a second fixing part 355. For example, the second fixing part 355 may be provided as a fastening hole and correspond to a fastening hole 143 formed in the upper part 140. For example, the third fastening member 90 may be fastened to the second fixing part 355 and the fastening hole 143. However, the disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples. The case 350 may be coupled to the fixing frame 100 by various known coupling methods.

The handle locking part 351 may be formed on the case 350. The handle locking part 351 may be provided as a component of the case 350. For example, the handle locking part 351 may be configured to fix the handle 330 from the outside of the case 350.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a first state S1 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view illustrating a first state S1 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a second state S2 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view illustrating a second state S2 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a front view illustrating a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram illustrating an engagement relationship between a handle and a handle locking part when a moving shaft is in a third state S3 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first state S1, a second state S2, and a third state S3 of a moving shaft according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the moving shaft 320 may be provided in the first state S1. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the locking protrusion 321 may be engaged with the teeth 311.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the moving frame 200 may be allowed to move upward. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the downward movement of the moving frame 200 may be restricted. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the moving frame 200 may only be allowed to move upward.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the moving frame 200 may move upward only from its current position. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the first state S1, the moving frame 200 may not move downward from the current position. Accordingly, the moving frame 200 may not arbitrarily descend while moving upward relative to the fixing frame 100. The locking device 300 may prevent the moving frame 200 from rapidly descending with respect to the fixing frame 100. As a result, the operational safety of the mounting device 2 may be improved.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the moving shaft 320 may be provided in the second state S2. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be released. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the handle 330 may not be fixed to the handle locking part 351.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the moving frame 200 may be allowed to move upward. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the moving frame 200 may be allowed to move downward. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the moving frame 200 may be capable of both upward and downward movement. The upward and downward movement of the moving frame 200 may be unrestricted.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the moving frame 200 may be movable upward from the current position. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the moving frame 200 may be movable downward from its current position.

For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may not interfere with each other. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may not contact each other. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be spaced apart from each other.

Meanwhile, the spring 340 may have an elastic restoring force to switch the moving shaft 320 from the second state S2 to the first state S1. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the second state S2, the spring 340 may have an elastic restoring force in the first direction D1. For example, the spring 340 may be compressed by the moving shaft 320. For example, while the spring 340 is pressed in the second direction D2 by the moving shaft 320, the spring 340 may exert a force to push the moving shaft 320 in the first direction D1. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be switched from the second state S2 to the first state S1 by the spring 340. Accordingly, unless the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may always be maintained in close contact with each other. Further details regarding this will be described below.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the moving shaft 320 may be provided in the third state S3. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be released, and the handle locking part 351 may fix the handle 330. As a result, the movement of the moving shaft 320 in the first direction D1 may be restricted.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the moving frame 200 may be capable of upward movement. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the moving frame 200 may be capable of downward movement. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the moving frame 200 may be capable of both upward and downward movement. The moving frame 200 may be movable upward and downward freely.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the moving frame 200 may be movable upward from the current position. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the moving frame 200 may be movable downward from the current position.

For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may not interfere with each other. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may not be in contact with each other. When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be spaced apart from each other.

Meanwhile, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330, so that the moving shaft 320 may be restricted from moving in the first direction D1. For example, when the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the handle 330 is caught by the handle locking part 351, and thus cannot move in the first direction D1, and accordingly, the moving shaft 320 connected to the handle 330 is also prevented from moving in the first direction D1.

When the moving shaft 320 is provided in the third state S3, the handle 330 may be configured to be caught by the handle locking part 351. The handle 330 may be configured to interfere with the handle locking part 351. At least a portion of the handle 330 and at least a portion of the handle locking part 351 may be arranged to be in contact with each other. For example, an upper portion of the handle locking part 351 may be positioned higher than a lower portion of the handle 330. For example, the handle locking part 351 may function as a kind of locking step. For example, the handle locking part 351 may be referred to as the locking step 351.

For example, one of the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 may include a locking protrusion, and the other of the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 may include a locking groove corresponding to the locking protrusion. As a result, the fixing force between the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 may be improved.

For example, referring to FIG. 22, the handle locking part 351 may include a locking protrusion 351b, and the handle 330 may include a locking groove 333 corresponding to the locking protrusion 351b. For example, the locking protrusion 351b may have a shape protruding in the second direction D2. For example, the locking groove 333 may have a shape recessed in the second direction D2. However, unlike the example illustrated in FIG. 22, the handle locking part 351 may include the locking groove, and the handle 330 may include the locking protrusion. In this case, the locking protrusion of the handle 330 may have a shape protruding in the first direction D1, and the locking groove of the handle locking part 351 may have a shape recessed in the first direction D1. It should be noted that the disclosure is not limited to the above examples, and the handle locking part 351 and the handle 330 may be configured to be fixed by various known fixing methods of the related art.

Referring to FIG. 23, the moving shaft 320 may be provided in a first state S1 in which the locking protrusion 321 is engaged with the teeth 311, a second state S2 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released, or a third state S3 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released and the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330 to restrict movement in the first direction D1.

The moving shaft 320 may be provided in a first state S1, a second state S2, or a third state S3 according to movement in the first direction D1 or the second direction D2. The ordinals “first,” “second,” and “third” used to denote the states S1, S2, and S3 do not limit the configuration.

For example, the second state S2 of the moving shaft 320 may be a state in which the moving shaft 320 has moved in the second direction D2 from the first state S1. For example, the second state S2 of the moving shaft 320 may be a state in which the moving shaft 320 has moved in the first direction D1 from the third state S3.

The moving shaft 320 may be configured to transition to a second state S2 when a predetermined first force is applied to the handle 330 in the second direction D2 in the first state S1. The moving shaft 320 may be configured to transition to the first state S1 when the predetermined first force is removed from the handle 330 in the second state S2. For example, the predetermined first force may refer to a force that moves the handle 330 in the second direction D2 to an extent that the handle 330 is not fixed to the handle locking part 351.

When the moving shaft 320 is in the second state S2, the moving shaft 320 may move in the first direction D1 by the spring 340. Accordingly, the moving shaft 320 may be immediately transitioned from the second state S2 to the first state S1 by the spring 340. Unless the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330, the moving shaft 320 may transition from the second state S2 to the first state S1 by the elastic restoring force of the spring 340. In other words, when the handle locking part 351 does not fix the handle 330, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may maintain an engaged state by the spring 340. As a result, the moving frame 200 may be prevented from descending arbitrarily with respect to the fixing frame 100.

The moving shaft 320 may be configured such that, when a predetermined second force is applied to the handle 330 in the second direction D2 in the second state S2, the handle 330 is fixed to the handle locking part 351. Accordingly, the moving shaft 320 may be configured to transition from the second state S2 to the third state S3. For example, the predetermined second force may refer to a force that moves the handle 330 in the second direction D2 so that the handle 330 is fixed to the handle locking part 351. The moving shaft 320 may not transition from the third state S3 to the first state S1 or the second state S2 when the predetermined second force is removed from the handle 330 in the third state S3.

When the moving shaft 320 is in the third state S3, the movement of the moving shaft 320 in the first direction D1 may be restricted due to the handle 330 being fixed by the handle locking part 351. Accordingly, the moving shaft 320 cannot be immediately transitioned from the third state S3 to the first state S1 or the second state S2. Only when the fixing between the handle locking part 351 and the handle 330 is released, the moving shaft 320 may be transitioned from the third state S3 to the first state S1 or the second state S2 by the spring 340. For example, unless the fixing between the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 is released, the moving shaft 320 may be maintained in the third state S3.

The moving shaft 320 may be configured in a second state S2 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released when a predetermined first force is applied to the handle 330, or in a first state S1 in which the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 are engaged when the predetermined first force is removed from the handle 330. The moving shaft 320 may be configured in a third state S3 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released when the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be transitioned from the second state S2 to the third state S3 by a predetermined second force being applied to the handle 330.

In an example of the related art, the mounting device may be fixed in a state in which the locking protrusion and the teeth are engaged (hereinafter referred to as a locked state), or fixed in a state in which the engagement between the locking protrusion and the teeth is released (hereinafter referred to as a released state). When the mounting device is fixed in the released state, the locking protrusion and the teeth cannot be engaged without a separate operation. For example, the locking protrusion and the teeth are not constantly in contact. In addition, in order for the mounting device to be fixed in the locked state or the released state, at least two or more springs may be required.

In contrast, according to the disclosure, the mounting device 2 may be easily switched to a state in which the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 are engaged, even from a state in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be switched from the second state S2 to the first state S1 by the elastic restoring force of the spring 340, without any separate operation. The locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be constantly in contact with each other by the spring 340. In addition, the mounting device 2 may be fixed in a state in which the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 is released, by fixing the handle 330 to the handle locking part 351. For example, the moving shaft 320 may be configured in the third state S3 by a simple fixing structure. The mounting device 2 requires only one spring 340 and may have a simpler structure compared to the one of the related art.

FIG. 24 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a moving shaft is provided in a derailment prevention section of a rail according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 24, the rail 310 may include a first section 310a in which the teeth 311 is formed and a second section 310b other than the first section 310a. The second section 310b may be arranged along the moving direction of the moving frame 200 with respect to the first section 310a (see FIG. 9). The teeth 311 may not be formed in the second section 310b.

The second section 310b may be configured to prevent the moving frame 200 from moving upward relative to the fixing frame 100 and being separated from the fixing frame 100. The second section 310b may be configured to prevent the moving frame 200 from being detached from the fixing frame 100. For example, inconvenience, such as having to reattach the moving frame 200 detached from the fixing frame 100 to the fixing frame 100 may not occur.

For example, the second section 310b may include a receiving portion 3131 configured to receive at least a portion of the locking protrusion 321. For example, the second section 310b may include a supporting portion 3132 provided below the receiving portion 3131 and configured to interfere with a lower end of the locking protrusion 321.

For example, when the locking protrusion 321 is positioned in the second section 310b of the rail 310, the locking protrusion 321 may be received in the receiving portion 3131 and supported by the supporting portion 3132. For example, when the locking protrusion 321 is positioned in the second section 310b of the rail 310, the supporting portion 3132 may engage with the locking protrusion 321, whereby upward movement of the moving frame 200 may be restricted.

For example, the first section 310a may be referred to as a teethed section 310a. For example, the second section 310b may be referred to as a separation-prevention section 310b.

FIG. 25 is a schematic view illustrating a first locking device and a second locking device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 26 is a schematic view illustrating a first locking device and a second locking device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The components that are substantially identical to those of the locking device 300 illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 24 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof may be omitted.

The first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b may be configured to have partially different structures. One of the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b may include the handle locking part 351, and the other may not include the handle locking part 351. Otherwise, the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b may have substantially the same configuration. Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the first locking device 300a may not include the handle locking part 351, and the second locking device 300b may include the handle locking part 351. However, unlike what is shown in the drawings, the first locking device 300a may include the handle locking part 351, and the second locking device 300b may not include the handle locking part 351.

When the first locking device 300a does not include the handle locking part 351, the moving shaft 320 of the first locking device 300a may be provided in the first state S1 or the second state S2. When the second locking device 300b includes the handle locking part 351, the moving shaft 320 of the second locking device 300b may be provided in the first state S1, the second state S2, or the third state S3. According to each state of the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b, a user or the like may operate the mounting device 2 freely.

Referring to FIG. 25, an example of the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b will be described. The locking protrusion 321 of the first locking device 300a may be configured to engage with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 of the first locking device 300a, and the locking protrusion 321 of the second locking device 300b may be configured to engage with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 of the second locking device 300b. As a result, the moving frame 200 may be allowed to move upward with respect to the fixing frame 100, but its downward movement may be restricted.

Referring to FIG. 26, an example of the first locking device 300a and the second locking device 300b will be described. When a predetermined force is applied to the handle 330 of the first locking device 300a, the locking protrusion 321 of the first locking device 300a may be configured to disengage from the teeth 311 of the rail 310 of the first locking device 300a. Since the first locking device 300a does not include the handle locking part 351, the handle 330 of the first locking device 300a may be in an unfixed state. Accordingly, when the predetermined force applied to the handle 330 of the first locking device 300a is removed, the moving shaft 320 of the first locking device 300a may move toward the rail 310 of the first locking device 300a by the spring 340 of the first locking device 300a. For example, the first locking device 300a may be immediately switched to the state where the locking protrusion 321 is engaged with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 (e.g., see FIG. 25). When a predetermined force is applied to the handle 330 of the second locking device 300b, the locking protrusion 321 of the second locking device 300b may be configured to disengage from the teeth 311 of the rail 310 of the second locking device 300b. The handle 330 of the second locking device 300b may be fixed to the handle locking part 351 of the second locking device 300b. Accordingly, even when the predetermined force applied to the handle 330 of the second locking device 300b is removed, the moving shaft 320 of the second locking device 300b may not move toward the rail 310 of the second locking device 300b. For example, the second locking device 300b may not be switched to the state where the locking protrusion 321 is engaged with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 (e.g., see FIG. 25).

In summary, in the case of the first locking device 300a, the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may remain engaged at all times. In the case of the second locking device 300b, while the handle locking part 351 fixes the handle 330, the engagement between the locking protrusion 321 and the teeth 311 may be maintained in a disengaged state. Even when the handle locking part 351 of the second locking device 300b fixes the handle 330 of the second locking device 300b, the locking protrusion 321 of the first locking device 300a may remain engaged with the teeth 311 of the rail 310 of the first locking device 300a. This may prevent the moving frame 200 from suddenly descending with respect to the fixing frame 100.

Meanwhile, although not illustrated in the drawings, the second locking device 300b may also be configured such that the locking protrusion 321 of the moving shaft 220 is disengaged from the teeth 311 of the rail 310, and the handle 330 is not fixed to the handle locking part 351 (i.e., the second state S2).

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a mounting device 2 configured to mount an air conditioner 2 to a structure A may include a fixing frame 100 configured to support the air conditioner. The mounting device 2 may include a moving frame 200 configured to be movable up and down with respect to the fixing frame. The mounting device 2 may include a rail 310 provided on the moving frame 200 and configured to move up and down together with the moving frame. The rail 310 may have a teeth 311 extending in the moving direction of the moving frame. The mounting device 2 may include a moving shaft 320 provided on the fixing frame 100 and movable in a first direction D1 toward the teeth and a second direction D2 away from the teeth. The moving shaft 320 may include a locking protrusion 321 formed at a first end thereof and configured to engage with the teeth. The mounting device 2 may include a handle 330 provided at a second end of the moving shaft and configured to move the moving shaft in the second direction. The mounting device 2 may include a handle locking part 351 configured to fix the handle 330 to restrict movement of the moving shaft in the first direction D1 after the moving shaft has been moved in the second direction D2 by the handle.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the mounting device 2 may further include a spring 340 configured to elastically bias the moving shaft in the first direction.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, when the handle locking part 351 does not fix the handle 330, the locking protrusion of the moving shaft may be maintained in engagement with the teeth of the rail by the spring 340.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the moving shaft 320 may be provided in a first state S1 in which the locking protrusion and the teeth are engaged, a second state S2 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion and the teeth is released, or a third state S3 in which the engagement between the locking protrusion and the teeth is released and the handle locking part fixes the handle so that the movement in the first direction is restricted.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the moving shaft may be configured to be switched to the second state S2 when a predetermined force is applied to the handle in the second direction in the first state S1. The moving shaft may be configured to be switched to the first state S1 when the predetermined force is removed from the handle in the second state S2.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second state S2 of the moving shaft may be a state in which the moving shaft is moved in the second direction from the first state S1.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second state S2 of the moving shaft may be a state in which the moving shaft is moved in the first direction from the third state S3.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the mounting device may further include a case 350 detachably coupled to the fixing frame and configured to receive at least a portion of the moving shaft. The handle locking part 351 may be formed in the case 350.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, one of the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 may include a locking protrusion. The other of the handle 330 and the handle locking part 351 may include a locking groove corresponding to the locking protrusion.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the handle locking part may further include an inclined surface 351a that is inclined upward along the second direction.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the handle may be configured to be movable on the inclined surface 351a, and to be locking-engaged with the handle locking part by being separated from the inclined surface 351a in the second direction.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the rail 310 may include a first section 310a in which the teeth is formed, and a second section 310b which is other than the first section and is arranged along the moving direction of the moving frame. The second section 310b may be configured to prevent the moving frame from moving upward relative to the fixing frame and being separated from the fixing frame.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second section 310b may include a receiving portion 3131 configured to receive at least a portion of the locking protrusion. The second section 310b may include a supporting portion 3132 provided below the receiving portion and configured to interfere with a lower end of the locking protrusion.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the teeth 311 may have a diagonal shape that narrows upward. When the locking protrusion is engaged with the teeth, the moving frame may be allowed to move upward but may be restricted from moving downward.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the inclination angle (α) of the teeth in a horizontal direction may be 50 degrees.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the air-conditioning apparatus 1 may include an air conditioner 3 and a mounting device 2 configured to mount the air conditioner 3. The mounting device 2 may include: a fixing frame 100 including a first frame part configured to support the air conditioner, a second frame part extending upward from one side of the first frame part, a third frame part extending parallel to the second frame part from the other side of the first frame part, and a fourth frame part connecting the second frame part and the third frame part, a moving frame 200 including a fifth frame part movably coupled to the second frame part and a sixth frame part movably coupled to the third frame part, a rail 310 disposed on at least one of the fifth frame part and the sixth frame part of the fixing frame and including a teeth 311, a moving shaft 320 disposed on the fourth frame part and movable along an extension direction of the fourth frame part, the moving shaft including a locking protrusion configured to engage with the teeth, and a handle 330 configured to move the moving shaft. The moving shaft may be provided in a first state (S1) in which the locking protrusion is disengaged from the teeth when a predetermined force is applied to the handle, or in a second state (S2) in which the locking protrusion is engaged with the teeth when the predetermined force is removed from the handle.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the mounting device 2 may further include a spring 340 having an elastic restoring force to switch the moving shaft from the second state to the first state.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the mounting device 2 may further include a case 350 fixed to the fourth frame part and configured to receive at least a portion of the moving shaft. The mounting device 2 may further include a handle locking part 351 formed on the case and configured to fix the handle to restrict movement of the moving shaft.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the locking protrusion 321 may be provided at a first end of the moving shaft, and the handle 330 may be provided at a second end of the moving shaft.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the moving shaft may be provided in a third state S3 in which engagement between the locking protrusion and the teeth is released when the handle locking part fixes the handle.

According to the disclosure, the mounting device may have a simple structure.

According to the disclosure, the mounting device may maintain a state in which the locking protrusion of the moving shaft is engaged with the teeth of the rail.

According to the disclosure, the air-conditioning apparatus may include a mounting device having an improved structure, thereby improving user convenience.

According to the disclosure, the air-conditioning apparatus may include a mounting device having an improved structure, thereby enhancing user safety.

The effects obtained from the disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not explicitly stated may also be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains.

It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure according to the claims and description in the specification can be realized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

Any such software may be stored in non-transitory computer readable storage media. The non-transitory computer readable storage media store one or more computer programs (software modules), the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform a method of the disclosure.

Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage, such as, for example, a storage device like read only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory, such as, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, device or integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readable medium, such as, for example, a compact disk (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), magnetic disk or magnetic tape or the like. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a computer program or computer programs comprising instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing apparatus or a method as claimed in any one of the claims of this specification and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing such a program.

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.