AIR CONDITIONER AND METHOD FOR REMOVING FILTER MODULE OF AIR CONDITIONER

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR2024/005027 designating the United States, filed on Apr. 15, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Receiving Office and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2023-0066846, filed on May 24, 2023, and 10-2023-0110760, filed on Aug. 23, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure relates to an air conditioner and a method of removing a filter module of the air conditioner.

Description of Related Art

An air conditioner includes a compressor that compresses a refrigerant, a heat exchanger (a condenser and an evaporator) that induces heat exchange with the refrigerant, an expansion valve, and a blower for promoting heat exchange with the refrigerant.

Air conditioners are classified as a stand type, a wall-mounted type, and a ceiling-mounted type depending on their installation locations.

Ceiling-mounted type air conditioners are highly space-efficient because they are mounted on the ceiling. However, during the process of mounting the ceiling-mounted type air conditioners on the ceiling or repairing the ceiling mounted type air conditioners mounted on the ceiling, inconvenience may be experienced.

SUMMARY

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a body including a heat exchanger and a blow fan.

The air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a panel assembled with a lower portion of the body.

The air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include the panel including a panel frame assembled with the body and including an inlet through which air flows into the body and an outlet through which air is discharged to outside of the body.

The air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include at least one dust collecting filter positioned in the inlet and configured to collect a foreign material in air received through the inlet.

The air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a filter module including a support frame supporting the dust collecting filter and assembled with the panel frame in such a way as to be downwardly detachable.

The air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a cover grill covering the inlet with which the filter module is assembled, the cover grill detachably assembled with the panel frame.

The support frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a first frame extending in a first direction, and a second frame extending from both ends of the first frame in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

The second frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may may include a guide portion configured to guide the dust collecting filter to be inserted into or separated from the second frame along the second direction from below.

The support frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a third frame supporting a deodorizing filter configured to absorb a chemical material, and overlapping with the controller in a vertical direction.

The third frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may may include a structure configured to be movable to a first position of overlapping with the controller in the vertical direction and to a second position of not overlapping with the controller in the vertical direction.

A method of detaching a filter module from an air conditioner according to an example embodiment may be a method of detaching a filter module including a dust collecting filter and a support frame from a panel assembled with a lower portion of a body of a ceiling type air conditioner.

The method of detaching the filter module from the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include opening an inlet by moving a position of a cover grill positioned below the panel.

The method of detaching the filter module from the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include separating the dust collecting filter positioned in an inlet.

The method of detaching the filter module from the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include removing a fixing member assembled with a fixing support portion of the support frame from below.

The method of detaching the filter module from the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include separating a temporary support portion of the support frame from a panel frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to an various embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner shown at another angle according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an air conditioner is mounted on a ceiling according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a middle panel of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a state in which air is discharged to outside of a housing while a blade of an air conditioner is in a closed position according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a filter module according to an various embodiments;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a filter module according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a view of a cross-section C-C of the air conditioner of FIG. 5, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example process of detaching a dust collecting filter from a filter module according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example process of detaching a dust collecting filter from a guide portion according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating an example process of detaching a dust collecting filter from a guide portion according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a filter module illustrating a direction in which a dust collecting filter is detached according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a situation in which a dust collecting filter is installed in a wrong direction according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a rotation of a third frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a cross section D-D of FIG. 15 illustrating a rotation of a third frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating an example operation of removing a fixing member of a third frame from an air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a cross section E-E of FIG. 15 illustrating a temporary fixing portion of a third frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating an air conditioner after a dust collecting filter is detached from the air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating an air conditioner at another angle after a dust collecting filter is detached from the air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a top view illustrating a state in which a third frame of an air conditioner is at a second position according to various embodiments;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a second guide protrusion of a third frame and a second guide groove of a first frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a movement of a third frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a top view of a fourth position of a third frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view illustrating detachment of a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section J-J of FIG. 25 illustrating detachment of a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section K-K of FIG. 25 illustrating detachment of a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view illustrating detachment of a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating detachment of a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating a wire positioned inside a support frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of a filter module according to various embodiments;

FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of detaching a filter module from an air conditioner according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of detaching a filter module from an air conditioner according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various example embodiments of the present disclosure and terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to particular embodiments, and it should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives.

With regard to description of drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

A singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one item or a plurality of the items unless context clearly indicates otherwise.

As used herein, each of the expressions “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C,” may include one or all possible combinations of the items listed together with a corresponding expression among the expressions.

The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of a plurality of associated listed items.

The terms “1^st”, “2^nd”, first”, “second”, etc., may be used only to distinguish one component from another, not intended to limit the corresponding component in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

It may be described one (e.g., first) component is “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively”. When referenced, this may refer, for example, to the one component being connected to the other component directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

It will be understood that when the terms “includes,” “comprises,” “including,” and/or “comprising,” are used in this disclosure, specify the presence of stated features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

An expression that one component is “connected”, “coupled”, “supported”, or “in contact” with another component includes a case in which the components are directly “connected”, “coupled”, “supported”, or “in contact” with each other and a case in which the components are indirectly “connected”, “coupled”, “supported”, or “in contact” with each other through a third component.

It will also be understood that when one component is referred to as being “on” or “over” another component, it can be directly on the other component or intervening components may also be present.

An air conditioner according to various embodiments may be a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and may refer, for example, to a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

According to an embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump for performing a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump may include a cooling cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expander, and a second heat exchanger. Components of the heat pump may be installed in a single housing forming an outer appearance of the air conditioner, and a window type air conditioner or a movable air conditioner may correspond to such an air conditioner. The components of the heat pump may be divided and installed in a plurality of housings forming an air conditioner, and a wall-mounted type air conditioner, a stand-type air conditioner, a system air conditioner, etc. may correspond to such an air conditioner.

The air conditioner including the plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoor and at least one indoor unit installed indoor. For example, the air conditioner may connect an outdoor unit to an indoor unit through a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may connect an outdoor unit to two or more indoor units through refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may connect two or more outdoor units to two or more indoor units through a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

The outdoor unit may be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or a command) for controlling the air conditioner may be input through an input interface provided in the outdoor unit or the indoor unit, and 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 provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and the refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger to the indoor heat exchanger.

The outdoor heat exchanger may perform heat exchange between a refrigerant and outside air using a phase change (for example, evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is condensed in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may emit heat to outside air, and, while the refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger is evaporated, the refrigerant may absorb heat from outside air.

The indoor unit may be installed indoors. For example, indoor units may be classified into ceiling type indoor units, stand type indoor units, and wall-mounted type indoor units according to arrangement methods. For example, the ceiling type indoor units may be classified into a four-way type indoor unit, a one-way type indoor unit, and a duct-type indoor unit according to methods by which air is discharged.

The indoor heat exchanger may perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air using a phase change (for example, evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is evaporated in the indoor unit, the refrigerant may absorb heat from indoor air, and by blowing indoor air cooled by passing through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, an indoor space may be cooled. While the refrigerant is condensed in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may emit heat to indoor air, and by blowing indoor air heated by passing through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the indoor space may be heated.

For example, the air conditioner may perform a cooling or heating function through the phase-change process of the refrigerant that circulates between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger, and for the circulation of the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include the compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor may receive a refrigerant gas through an inlet and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor may discharge a high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through an outlet. The compressor may be installed inside the outdoor unit.

A refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipe in the order of the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expander, and the indoor heat exchanger or in the order of the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, the expander, and the outdoor heat exchanger.

For example, in the air conditioner, an outdoor unit may be directly connected to an indoor unit through a refrigerant pipe, and in this case, a refrigerant may circulate between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

For example, in the air conditioner, an outdoor unit may be connected to two or more indoor units through refrigerant pipes, and in this case, a refrigerant may flow to a plurality of indoor units through the refrigerant pipes diverging from the outdoor unit. Refrigerants discharged from the plurality of indoor units may meet and circulate to the outdoor unit. For example, the plurality of indoor units may be connected in parallel to the outdoor unit through separate refrigerant pipes.

The plurality of indoor units may operate independently according to operation modes set by a user. A part of the plurality of indoor units may operate in a cooling mode, and simultaneously, another part of the plurality of indoor units may operate in a heating mode. In this case, a refrigerant may enter each of the indoor units in a high or low pressure state selectively along a circulation flow path designated through a flow path switching valve which will be described below, be discharged, and then circulate to the outdoor unit.

For example, in the air conditioner, two or more outdoor units may be connected to two or more indoor units through a plurality of refrigerant pipes, and in this case, refrigerants discharged from a plurality of outdoor units may meet, flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then diverge at a certain location, and flow into a plurality of indoor units.

The plurality of outdoor units may operate or at least some of the plurality of outdoor units may not operate according to a driving load depending on a driving amount of the plurality of indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may flow into an outdoor unit that selectively operate through the flow path switching valve, and circulate. The air conditioner may include the expander for lowering pressure of the refrigerant that flows into the heat exchanger. For example, the expander may be positioned inside the indoor unit or the outdoor unit or inside both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

The expander may lower temperature and pressure of the refrigerant using, for example, a throttling effect. The expander may include an orifice capable of reducing a cross-sectional area of a flow path. The refrigerant passed through the orifice may be lowered in temperature and pressure.

The expander may be implemented as an electronic expansion valve capable of adjusting an opening rate (a ratio of a cross-sectional area of the flow path of the valve in a partially open state with respect to a cross-sectional area of the flow path of the valve in a fully open state). An amount of a refrigerant passing through the expander may be controlled depending on an opening rate of the electronic expansion valve.

The air conditioner may further include the flow path switching valve positioned on the refrigerant circulation flow path. The flow path switching valve may include, for example, a 4-way valve. The flow path switching valve may set a circulation path of a refrigerant depending on a driving mode (for example, cooling driving or heating driving) of the indoor unit. 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 evaporated from the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger may flow into the accumulator.

While a refrigerant being a mixture of a refrigerant liquid and a refrigerant gas flows into the accumulator, the accumulator may separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

An outdoor fan may be provided around the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outside air to the outdoor heat exchanger to facilitate heat exchange between a refrigerant and outside air.

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the outdoor unit may include an environment sensor. The sensor of the outdoor unit may be positioned inside the outdoor unit or at an arbitrary location outside the outdoor unit. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may include a temperature sensor for detecting temperature of air around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting humidity of air around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting refrigerant pressure of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

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

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blow fan that circulates air into or out of the housing, and the indoor heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air flowed 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 that filters a foreign material in air flowed into the housing through the inlet.

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

In the housing of the indoor unit, an airflow guide for guiding a direction of air to be discharged through the outlet may be provided. For example, the airflow guide may include a blade positioned on the outlet. For example, the airflow guide may include, but is not limited to, an auxiliary fan for adjusting a discharge airflow. However, the airflow guide may be omitted.

Inside the housing of the indoor unit, the indoor heat exchanger and the blow fan may be positioned on a flow path connecting the inlet to the outlet.

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

The indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blow fan and the outlet or between the inlet and the blow fan. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air received through the inlet or transfer heat to air received through the inlet. The indoor heat exchanger may include a heat exchange pipe through which a refrigerant flows and a heat exchange fin that is in contact with the heat exchange pipe to increase a heat transfer area.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensed water generated in the indoor heat exchanger. Condensed water accommodated in the drain tray may be discharged to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may support the indoor heat exchanger.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include an arbitrary type of user input means including a button, a switch, a touch screen, and/or a touch pad. A user may input setting data (for example, desired room temperature, a driving mode setting for cooling/heating/dehumidifying/air cleaning, an outlet selection setting, and/or an air volume setting) through the input interface.

The input interface may also 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 certain location (for example, a part of a wall) of an indoor space. The user may input setting data for an operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. Also, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The user may input setting data for an operation of the air conditioner remotely using a wireless remote controller. The setting data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted as an infrared signal to the input interface.

The input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be obtained through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transfer the converted electrical signal to an 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 (for example, desired room temperature, a driving mode setting for cooling/heating/dehumidifying/air cleaning, an outlet selection setting, and/or an air volume setting) obtained through the input interface may be transferred to the indoor unit controller which will be described below. According to an example, setting data obtained through the input interface may be transmitted to an external device, that is, the outdoor unit or a server through an indoor unit communication device which will be described below.

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 positioned in an inside or outside space of the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and/or humidity sensors positioned in a preset space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor that detects temperature at each of an entrance, middle part, and/or exit of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

For example, environment information detected by the indoor unit sensor may be transferred to the indoor unit controller which will be described below or transmitted to the outside through the indoor unit communication device which will be described below.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include the indoor unit communication device. The indoor unit communication device may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module. The indoor unit communication device may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with another device. The outdoor unit may include the outdoor unit communication device. The outdoor unit communication device may also include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-distance communication module.

The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a Near Field Communication (NFC) module, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN; WiFi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, a ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

The long-distance wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various kinds of long-distance communications, and may include a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device may transmit/receive a wireless signal to/from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server on a mobile communication network.

The indoor unit communication device may communicate with an external device, such as a server, a mobile device, another home appliance, etc., through a surrounding Access Point (AP). The AP may connect a Local Area Network (LAN) to which the 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 WAN. The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include the indoor unit controller that controls the components of the indoor unit, including the blow fan, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit controller that controls the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, etc. The indoor unit controller may communicate with the outdoor unit controller through the indoor unit communication device and the outdoor unit communication device. The outdoor unit communication device may transmit a control signal generated by the outdoor unit controller to the indoor unit communication device, or transfer a control signal transmitted from the indoor unit communication device to the outdoor unit controller. That is, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may perform bidirectional communication. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may transmit and receive various signals generated while the air conditioner operates.

The outdoor unit controller may be electrically connected to the components of the outdoor unit and control operations of the individual components. 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 a refrigerant. The outdoor unit controller may adjust a rotation speed of the outdoor fan. Also, the outdoor unit controller may generate a control signal for adjusting an opening rate of the expansion valve. A refrigerant may circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow path switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger, under a control by the outdoor unit controller.

Each of various temperature sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to detected temperature to the outdoor unit controller and/or the indoor unit controller. For example, each of the humidity sensors included in the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to 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, etc. through the indoor unit communication device, or obtain a user input directly through the input interface or through the remote controller. The indoor unit controller may control the components of the indoor unit, including the blow fan, etc. 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 the components of the outdoor unit including the compressor, etc. based on the information about the user input, received from the indoor unit. For example, according to reception of a control signal corresponding to a user input of selecting a driving mode, such as cooling driving, heating driving, blowing driving, defrosting driving, or dehumidifying driving, from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit controller may control the components of the outdoor unit to perform an operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the selected driving mode.

Each of the indoor unit controller and the indoor unit controller may include a processor and a memory. 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 information required for operations of the air conditioner. The memory may store instructions, applications, data, and/or programs required for the operations of the air conditioner. For example, the memory may store various programs for cooling driving, heating driving, dehumidifying driving, and/or defrosting driving of the air conditioner. The memory may include a volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM), for temporarily memorizing data. Also, the memory may include a non-volatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long time.

The processor may include various processing circuitry and generate a control signal for controlling an operation of the air conditioner based on the instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in the memory. The processor may include a logic circuit and an arithmetic circuit, as hardware. The processor may process data according to a program and/or instruction provided from the memory and generate a control signal according to the processed result. The memory and processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or 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 an operation of the air conditioner under a control by the indoor unit controller. For example, information, such as a driving mode, a direction of wind, an air volume, and temperature, selected by a user input may be output. Also, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, and a warning/error message.

The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, which is a sound system, may output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information to be provided to the user, as various graphic elements. For example, operation information of the air conditioner may be displayed as at least one of an image or text. Also, the display may include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a Liquid Crystal Display Panel (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode Panel (LED) panel, an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) panel, a micro LED panel, and/or a plurality of LEDs.

Hereinafter, an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to various example embodiments will be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the indoor unit of the air conditioner will be referred to as an air conditioner.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the air conditioner 1, shown at another angle according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include a panel 30 assembled with a body 20. The panel 30 of the air conditioner 1 may be assembled with a lower portion of the body 20. A direction of the lower portion of the body 20 may be a z-axis direction.

The air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include an inlet 311 (see FIG. 4) configured to allow air to flow into inside of the body 20. The inlet 311 may allow air to flow into the inside of the body 20.

The air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include an outlet 312 through which air is discharged to outside of the body 20. The outlet 312 may discharge air to the outside of the body 20. The outlet 312 may be positioned in at least a portion of the panel 30. The outlet 312 may be positioned in at least a portion of a panel frame 31 included in the panel 30. The outlet 312 may be an outlet through which the air conditioner 1 adjusts temperature of received air and then discharges the air.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the air conditioner 1 is mounted on a ceiling according to various embodiments.

The air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may be mounted on a ceiling. The body 20 of the air conditioner 1 may be built into the ceiling. The air conditioner 1 may be a ceiling type air conditioner 1. However, a mounting position of the air conditioner 1 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 4, the body 20 of the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include a body frame 21, a heat exchanger 22 positioned inside the body frame 21, and a blower fan 23 positioned inside the body frame 21.

The heat exchanger 22 may induce heat exchange between a refrigerant and air flowed into inside of the body frame 21. The blower fan 23 may generate a flow inside the body frame 21. The blower fan 23 may generate a flow in a direction toward the outlet 312. The blower fan 23 may be positioned between the heat exchanger and the outlet 312.

The air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include a plurality of wind guides 24. The plurality of wind guides 24 may control left and right directions of wind that is discharged from the outlet 312. The plurality of wind guides 24 may be positioned between the blower fan 23 and the outlet 312. The plurality of wind guides 24 may be arranged in such a way as to be spaced from each other in the left and right directions. The plurality of wind guides 24 may be rotatably installed on the body frame 21. Depending on a rotation angle of the plurality of wind guides 24, left and right directions of discharged wind may change.

The air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include a blade 33 that opens or closes the outlet 312. The blade 33 may be installed to open or close the outlet 312. The blade 33 may be rotatably installed on the panel frame 31. The blade 33 may open or close the outlet 312 by adjusting a rotation angle. The blade 33 may have an open position 331 of opening the outlet 312 and a closed position 332 of closing the outlet 312.

The blade 33 may adjust upward and downward directions of wind that is discharged from the outlet 312. Depending on a rotation angle of the blade 33, upward and downward directions of wind that is discharged from the outlet 312 may change. The blade 33 may adjust a rotation angle to adjust a discharge direction and a discharge amount of wind that is discharged from the outlet 312.

FIG. 5 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating a middle panel 34 of the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 5, the panel 30 of the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include the middle panel 34 that covers a portion of the panel frame 31 between the outlet 312 and the inlet 311. The middle panel 34 may be positioned between a cover grill 32 and the blade 33. The middle panel 34 may be detachably assembled with the panel frame 31. For example, the middle panel 34 may be assembled with the panel frame 31 by a hook method.

The middle panel 34 may include a plurality of second holes h2 to allow air to be discharged. Each second hole h2 may be sized to discharge air, but not to allow fingers to enter. For example, the second hole h2 may have a size of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. For example, the second hole h2 may have a size of 5 mm or less. For example, the second hole h2 may have a size of 3 mm or less. The size of the second hole h2 may correspond to a size of a first hole h1.

Air discharged from the outlet 312 may be transferred to a middle portion of the panel frame 31 covered by the middle panel 34. A plurality of ribs may be arranged in the middle portion of the panel frame 31 to change a direction of air transferred from the outlet 312. Air of which a direction has changed by the plurality of ribs may be discharged to outside through the second holes h2.

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the plurality of second holes h2 are formed in the middle panel 34 has been described. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the middle panel 34 may not include the second holes h2.

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a state in which air is discharged to outside of a housing while the blade 33 of the air conditioner 1 is at the closed position 332 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may be configured to allow air to be discharged while the blade 33 is at the closed state 332.

For example, the blade 33 may include a plurality of first holes h1. Each first hole h1 may be sized to discharge air, but not to allow fingers to enter. For example, the first hole h1 may have a size of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. For example, the first hole h1 may have a size of 5 mm or less. For example, the first hole h1 may have a size of 3 mm or less.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

The panel 30 of the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include the panel frame 31, a filter module 4, and the cover grill 32.

The panel frame 31 may include the inlet 311 through which air flows into the inside of the body 20. The panel frame 31 may be assembled with the body frame 21 in such a way as to be downwardly detachable from the body frame 21.

The cover grill 32 may cover the inlet 311. The cover grill 32 may include a plurality of grill holes configured to allow outside air to flow into the inlet 311. The cover grill 32 may induce inflow of outside air through the grill holes, while minimizing/reducing unintentional inflow of foreign materials into the inlet 311 of the panel frame 31.

The cover grill 32 may be detachably assembled with the panel frame 31. For example, the cover grill 32 may be assembled with the panel frame 31 by a hook method. However, a method of assembling the cover grill 32 is not limited thereto and may vary.

The cover grill 32 may cover the inlet 311 with which a filter module 4 is assembled. The cover grill 32 may be detachably assembled with the panel frame 31.

The filter module 4 according to an example embodiment may include at least one dust collecting filter 40. The dust collecting filter 40 may collect a foreign material in air received through the inlet 311. The dust collecting filter 40 may be positioned between the body 20 and the cover grill 32. The filter module 4 may be positioned in the inlet 311. The dust collecting filter 40 may be positioned in the inlet 311.

The dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may include an electric dust collecting filter configured to collect foreign materials using an electrostatic force. The electric dust collecting filter 40 may charge foreign materials in air by applying a voltage to the foreign materials. The electric dust collecting filter 40 may collect the charged foreign materials. The foreign materials may include small particles such as fine dust and ultrafine dust. The foreign materials may be particles having a size of 1 μm or less. The foreign materials may be particles having a size of 0.1 μm or less. However, a dust collection method of the electric dust collecting filter 40 and foreign materials that the electric dust collecting filter 40 may collect are not limited thereto.

The electric dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may be electrically connected to a high voltage power supply (HVPS) 62 configured to transmit a high voltage. The electric dust collecting filter 40 may be electrically connected to the high voltage power supply 62 through a spring positioned on a support frame 5. The high voltage power supply 62 may transfer a high voltage to the electric dust collecting filter 40. The electric dust collecting filter 40 may charge foreign materials by applying a high voltage to air flowing into the air conditioner 1. The high voltage may be a voltage of 1000 V or more. The high voltage may be a voltage of 3000 V or more. The high voltage may be a voltage of 5000 V or more. However, a voltage which the electric dust collecting filter 40 may apply to foreign materials in air is not limited thereto.

The filter module 4 may be detachably assembled with the panel 30. The filter module 4 may be installed on the panel frame 31. The filter module 4 may be installed vertically on the panel frame 31. The filter module 4 may be installed on the panel frame 31 in a direction that is parallel to a direction of gravity. The filter module 4 may be installed upward from below the panel frame 31. However, a method by which the filter module 4 is installed on the panel 30 and/or the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto.

The filter module 4 may be manufactured in a separate process from that of the panel 30 and/or the panel frame 31. The filter module 4 may be installed on the panel frame 31 after the panel frame 31 is manufactured. However, a process of manufacturing the filter module 4 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the filter module 4 according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the filter module 4 according to various embodiments. A1 of FIG. 9 may be an enlarged view of an area A corresponding to a guide portion 520 according to an example embodiment, shown in another direction.

Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, the filter module 4 according to an example embodiment may include the dust collecting filter 40 and the support frame 5 supporting the dust collecting filter 40.

The support frame 5 may support an outer side of the filter module 4. The support frame 5 may support the dust collecting filter 40. The support frame 5 may fix the filter module 4 to the panel frame 31.

The support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include a first frame 51 extending in a first direction. The first frame 51 may extend in an extension direction of the dust collecting filter 40.

The first direction may be a direction that is parallel to an x axis. The first direction may intersect a direction in which the inlet 311 and the outlet 312 are arranged. The first direction may be substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the inlet 311 and the outlet 312 are arranged. However, a direction indicated by the first direction is not limited thereto.

The support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include second frames 52 extending from both ends of the first frame 51. The second frames 52 may extend from both ends of the first frame 51 in a second direction that intersects the first direction.

The second frames 52 may extend from both ends of the first frame 51, which may refer, for example, to the second frames 52 extending in parallel to each other from both sides of the first frame 51. The second frames 52 may extend from both ends of the first frame 51, which may refer, for example, to the second frames 52 extending in a y-axis direction from both sides of the first frame 51.

The second direction may be parallel to an y axis. The second direction may be parallel to the direction in which the inlet 311 and the outlet 312 are arranged. The second direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction. However, a direction indicated by the second direction is not limited thereto.

The filter module 4 according to an example embodiment may include a deodorizing filter 45 configured to absorb chemical materials. The deodorizing filter 45 may be positioned in the inlet 311. The deodorizing filter 45 may remove an odor from air flowed into the air conditioner 1. The deodorizing filter 45 may prevent and/or reduce air discharged from the air conditioner 1 from emitting an unpleasant odor.

The filter module 4 according to an example embodiment may include a third frame 531. The support frame 5 may include a third frame 531. The third frame 53 may support the deodorizing filter 45.

The first frame 51 and the second frame 52 of the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may cover at least two sides of the dust collecting filter 40. The first frame 51 and the second frame 52 may support the dust collecting filter 40 in at least two directions. However, a method by which the first frame 51 and the second frame 52 support the dust collecting filter 40 is not limited thereto.

The third frame 53 according to an example embodiment may cover at least two sides of the dust collecting filter 40. The third frame 53 may support the dust collecting filter 40 in at least two directions. However, a method by which the third frame 53 supports the dust collecting filter 40 is not limited thereto.

The support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may be configured to allow the dust collecting filter 40 to be inserted into or separated from. The dust collecting filter 40 may be inserted into or separated from the support frame 5. While the support frame 5 is fixed to the panel frame 31, the dust collecting filter 40 may be inserted into or separated from the support frame 5.

The dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may be inserted into or separated from the support frame 5 from below the support frame 5. Below the support frame 5 may be the z-axis direction. Below the support frame 5 may be below the support frame 5 in a direction in which gravity is applied to the air conditioner 1 mounted on a ceiling.

The dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may be inserted into or separated from the support frame 5 along the second direction from below the support frame 5.

Inserting and separating the dust collecting filter 40 in a specific direction may be inserting or separating the dust collecting filter 40. Inserting or separating the dust collecting filter 40 may be inserting the dust collecting filter 40 into the support frame 5 to fix the dust collecting filter 40 to the support frame 5 or separating the dust collecting filter 40 from the support frame 5 according to an intention.

The filter module 4 according to an example embodiment may include the guide portion 520. The support frame 5 may include the guide portion 520. The second frame 52 may include the guide portion 520. The third frame 53 may include the guide portion 520. The guide portion 520 may guide the dust collecting filter 40 to be inserted or separated along the second direction. The guide portion 520 may guide a process of fixing/separating the dust collecting filter 40 to/from the support frame 5.

The guide portion 520 according to an example embodiment may support the dust collecting filter 40. The guide portion 520 may apply a force in an opposite direction of the direction of gravity to the dust collecting filter 40. The dust collecting filter 40 may not fall downward due to the guide portion 520. The guide portion 520 may be positioned on both sides of the dust collecting filter 40. The guide portion 520 may be positioned on both sides in first direction of the dust collection filter 40. The guide portion 520 may support the dust collecting filter 40 on both sides of the dust collecting filter 40.

Referring to A1 of FIG. 9, the guide portion 520 according to an example embodiment may be coupled to the support frame 5. The guide portion 520 may be detachably assembled with the support frame 5. The guide portion 520 may be coupled to the second frame 52. The guide portion 520 may be coupled to the second frame 52 downward from above the second frame 51. The guide portion 520 may be coupled to the second frame 52 in the z direction. The guide portion 520 may be supported by the second frame 52. The second frame 52 may support the guide portion 520. However, a configuration of the guide portion 520 is not limited thereto. For example, the guide portion 520 may be a portion of the support frame 5. For example, the guide portion 520 may be integrated into the support frame 5.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view C-C of the air conditioner 1 of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of an area B for the guide portion 520.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the guide portion 520 according to an example embodiment may be supported by the second frame 52. The guide portion 520 may be assembled with and fixed to the second frame 52.

The guide portion 520 may include a coupling groove 522. The second frame 52 may include a coupling hook 523. A plurality of coupling grooves 522 may be provided. A plurality of coupling hooks 523 may be provided. The coupling grooves 522 may be engaged with the coupling hooks 523. By coupling the coupling hooks 523 to the coupling grooves 522, the guide portion 520 may be fixed to the second frame 52. However, configurations of the coupling grooves 522 and the coupling hooks 523 are not limited thereto. For example, the guide portion 520 may include the coupling hooks 523 and the second frame 52 may include the coupling grooves 522.

The second frame 52 may support the guide portion 520 from below. Because the second frame 52 supports the guide portion 520 from below, the guide portion 520 may be stably supported on the second frame 520. Because the guide portion 520 is stably supported on the second frame 52, the guide portion 520 may stably support the dust collecting filter 40. However, a method by which the second frame 52 supports the guide portion 520 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example process of detaching the dust collecting filter 40 from the filter module 40 according to various embodiments. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example process of detaching the dust collecting filter 40 from the guide portion 520 according to various embodiments. FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating an example process of detaching the dust collecting filter 40 from the guide portion 520 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 12B, the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may include a first guide protrusion 43. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned on a side surface of the dust collecting filter 40. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned on both side surfaces of the dust collecting filter 40. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned on both side surfaces in first direction of the dust collecting filter 40. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned on both ends of the dust collecting filter 40. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned on both ends in first direction of the dust collecting filter 40. The dust collecting filter 40 may include the first guide protrusion 43 positioned on both ends in the first direction.

A plurality of first guide protrusions 43 according to an example embodiment may be provided. A plurality of first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged on each side surface of the dust collecting filter 40. A plurality of first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged on each end of the dust collecting filter 40. The plurality of first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged on each side surface of the dust collecting filter 40 along the second direction. The first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged on each side surface of the dust collecting filter 40 along the second direction. The first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged in pairs on both side surfaces of the dust collecting filter 40 along the second direction. Four first guide protrusions 43 may be arranged for each dust collecting filter 40. However, the number and arrangement of the first guide protrusions 43 are not limited thereto.

The support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include a first guide groove 521. The second frame 52 may include the first guide groove 521. The third frame 531 may include the first guide groove 521. The guide portion 520 may include the first guide groove 521. The first guide protrusion 43 may be inserted into the first guide groove 521. The first guide groove 521 may guide a movement path of the first guide protrusion 43. The first guide groove 521 may guide a movement path of the dust collecting filter 40. The first guide groove 521 may guide a detachment direction of the dust collecting filter 40. However, a function and role of the first guide groove 521 are not limited thereto.

The first guide groove 521 according to an example embodiment may be positioned to correspond to the first guide protrusion 43. The first guide groove 521 may have a width larger than a size of the first guide protrusion 43. However, a position and size of the first guide groove 521 are not limited thereto.

The first guide groove 521 may be positioned in a side surface of the guide portion 520. The first guide groove 521 may be positioned in a side surface of the second frame 52. The first guide groove 521 may be positioned in a side surface of the third frame 531. The side surface may be a side surface facing the dust collecting filter 40 among side surfaces of the second frame 52 or the third frame 531. The side surface may be a side surface facing the dust collecting filter 40 among side surfaces of the guide portion 520. However, a position of the first guide groove 521 and a relationship between the first guide groove 521 and the dust collecting filter 40 are not limited thereto.

A plurality of first guide grooves 521 according to an example embodiment may be provided. A plurality of first guide grooves 521 may be arranged in each side surface of the second frame 52. A plurality of first guide grooves 521 may be arranged in each side surface of the third frame 531. A plurality of guide grooves 521 may be arranged in the guide portion 520. The first guide grooves 521 may be arranged along the second direction. The first guide grooves 521 may be arranged in pairs along the second direction. However, the number and arrangement of the first guide portions 521 are not limited thereto.

Each of the first guide grooves 521 according to an example embodiment may extend in the second direction. The first guide grooves 521 may extend toward the first frame 51.

The first guide protrusions 43 according to an example embodiment may be inserted into the first guide grooves 521. Each first guide groove 521 may include a first protrusion inserting portion 551 which extends downward and into which each first guide protrusion 43 is inserted from below. The first guide groove 521 may include the first protrusion inserting portion 551 which is bent in the z direction and into which the first guide protrusion 43 is inserted upward from below. The first guide protrusion 43 may be inserted into the first guide groove 521 through the first protrusion inserting portion 551. The first guide groove 521 may guide the first guide protrusion 43 inserted into the first protrusion inserting portion 551 to move in the second direction. However, configurations of the first guide protrusion 43 and the first guide groove 521 are not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12A, a first guide protrusion 43 adjacent to the first frame 51 among the first guide protrusions 43 included in the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may be first inserted into the first guide groove 521. By first inserting the first guide protrusion 43 adjacent to the first frame 51, the dust collecting filter 40 may be casily fixed to the support frame 5. However, the order in which the first guide protrusions 43 are inserted into the first guide grooves 521 is not limited thereto. For example, a first guide protrusion 43 that is distant from the first frame 51 among the plurality of first guide protrusions 43 included in the dust collecting filter 40 may be first inserted into the first guide groove 521. For example, the plurality of first guide protrusions 43 included in the dust collecting filter 40 may be simultaneously inserted into the plurality of first guide grooves 521.

Referring to FIG. 12B, the first guide grooves 521 according to an example embodiment may support the first guide protrusions 43. According to the first guide protrusions 43 being inserted into the first guide grooves 521, the first guide grooves 521 may support the dust collecting filter 40.

However, although the above description relates to a case in which the dust collecting filter 40 includes the first guide protrusions 43 and the guide portion 520 includes the first guide grooves 521, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the guide portion 520 may include the first guide protrusions 43 and the duct collecting filter 40 may include the first guide grooves 621.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12B, the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may be detached from the filter module 4. The dust collecting filter 40 may be detached from the support frame 5. The dust collecting filter 40 may be detached from the guide portion 520. According to the first guide protrusions 43 being detached from the first guide grooves 521, the dust collecting filter 40 may be separated from the guide portion 520. A user may separate the dust collecting filter 40 from the air conditioner 1 and replace the dust collecting filter 40 with a new dust collecting filter 40.

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the filter module 4 illustrating a direction in which a dust collecting filter 40 or 40a is detached according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the dust collecting filter 40 is installed in a wrong direction according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may have directionality. The dust collecting filter 40 may include a first side 41 configured to receive air and a second side 42 configured to discharge air. The dust collecting filter 40 may be configured to receive air through the first side 41, collect foreign materials in the air, and discharge the air through the second side 42.

The first side 41 may be a side of the dust collecting filter 40 toward the z direction. The first side 41 may be a side of the dust collecting filter 40 positioned downward from the air conditioner 1. The first side 41 may be a side of the dust collecting filter 40 toward a direction in which gravity is applied.

The second side 42 may be an opposite side of the first side 41. The second side 42 may be a side of the dust collecting filter 40 toward the body 20 of the air conditioner 1. The second side 42 may be a side of the dust collecting filter 40 toward an opposite direction of the direction in which gravity is applied.

According to the first side 41 being positioned downward from the air conditioner 1 and the second side 42 being positioned toward the body 20 of the air conditioner 1, the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may have high dust collection efficiency. According to the first side 41 being positioned downward from the air conditioner 1 when the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may have high dust collection efficiency. According to the second side 42 being positioned toward the body 20 when the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may have high dust collection efficiency.

When the dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may be installed on the support frame 5 upward from below. When the dust collecting filter 50 is installed on the guide portion 520, the dust collecting filter 50 may be installed on the guide portion 520 upward from below. According to the second side 42 being positioned toward the guide portion 520 when the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may have high dust collection efficiency. According to the first side 41 being positioned downward from the support frame 5 when the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may have high dust collection efficiency. According to the first side 41 being positioned and installed toward the z direction when the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the support frame 5, the dust collecting filter 40 may have high dust collection efficiency. However, the installation direction of the dust collection filter 40 and the dust collection efficiency of the dust collecting filter 40 are not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 12A to 14, a dust collecting filter 40 according to an example embodiment may include a catching portion 46. The guide portion 520 may include an interference portion 526. The catching portion 46 and the guide portion 520 may prevent or avoid a situation in which the dust collecting filter 40a is installed in a wrong direction. The case in which the dust collecting filter 40a is installed on the guide portion 520 while the first side 41 of the dust collecting filter 40a is positioned in a direction facing the guide portion 520 may be a situation in which the dust collecting filter 40a is installed on the guide portion 520 in a wrong direction. The case in which the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the guide portion 520 while the second side 42 of the dust collecting filter 40a is positioned downward from the air conditioner 1 may be a situation in which the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the guide portion 520 in a wrong direction.

In the case in which the first side 41 of the dust collecting filter 40a is positioned toward the guide portion 520 when the first guide protrusion 43 according to an example embodiment is inserted into the first guide groove 521, interference may occur between the catching portion 46 and the interference portion 526. The catching portion 46 may be caught by the interference portion 526 of the guide portion 520. The interference portion 526 of the guide portion 520 may prevent and/or reduce the dust collecting filter 40a from being installed on the guide portion 520 while the first side 41 of the dust collecting filter 40a is positioned toward the guide portion 520, through interference with the catching portion 46 of the dust collecting filter 40a. The catching portion 46 and the interference portion 526 may prevent/avoid a situation in which the dust collecting filter 40 is installed on the guide portion 520 in a wrong direction. However, configurations and functions of the catching portion 46 and the interference portion 526 are not limited thereto.

FIG. 13 shows the dust collecting filter 40 approaching the guide portion 520 in order to be installed on the support frame 5. FIG. 13 shows the dust collecting filter 40a of which the first side 41 is positioned toward the guide portion 520 and the dust collecting filter 40 of which the second side 42 is positioned toward the guide portion 520.

FIG. 14 shows the dust collecting filter 40a of which the first side 41 is positioned toward the guide portion 520.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a distance between the first side 41 and the first guide protrusion 43 included in the dust collecting filter 40a according to an example embodiment may be longer than a distance between the second side 42 and the first guide protrusion 43. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned closer to the second side 41 than the first side 41.

The dust collecting filter 40a according to an example embodiment may include a midline m which is an imaginary line connecting mid points between the first side 41 and the second side 42. The first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned toward the second side 42 with respect to the midline m. According to the first guide protrusion 43 being positioned toward the second side 42 with respect to the midline m, the first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned closer to the second side 42 than the first side 41.

According to the first guide protrusion 43 may be positioned closer to the second side 42 than the first side 41, interference between the catching portion 46 and the interference portion 526 may occur when the first guide protrusion 43 is inserted into the first guide groove 521. According to the first guide protrusion 43 being positioned toward the second side 42 with respect to the midline m, interference between the catching portion 46 and the interference portion 526 may occur when the first guide protrusion 43 is inserted into the first guide groove 521.

However, a position of the first guide protrusion 43 and a relationship between the first guide protrusion 43 and the midline m are not limited thereto.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a rotation of the third frame 531 according to various embodiments. FIG. 16 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a rotation of the third frame 531 according to various embodiments. FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of an area F for describing cross sections of a rotation shaft 514 and a link 534.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may be connected to the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The third frame 531 may include a link (534) structure. The link 534 of the third frame 531 may be connected to the first frame 51. The link 534 of the third frame 531 may be connected to the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The third frame 531 may move by rotating on the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The third frame 531 may move by rotating on the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51 through the link 534. The third frame 531 may move downward from the air conditioner 1 by rotating on the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The third frame 531 may move in the direction of gravity by rotating on the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The third frame 531 may move in the z-axis direction by rotating on the rotation shaft 514 positioned in the first frame 51. The link 534 of the third frame 531 may be a C-shaped link 534 that is detachable. The link 534 of the third frame 531 may function as a hinge. The link 534 of the third frame 531 may be a plurality of links 534. The links 534 of the third frame 531 may be arranged in such a way as to be spaced a preset interval from each other in the first direction. However, a rotational movement principle and method of the third frame 531 are not limited thereto.

The third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may have a first position 5301 and a second position 5302. The first position 5301 may be a state in which the third frame 531 does not rotate. The first position 5301 may be a state in which the third frame 531 is positioned on a plane defined by the x-axis and the y-axis. The first position 5301 may be a state in which the third frame 531 is positioned on a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction. The second position 5302 may be a state in which the third frame 531 has rotated from the first position 5301 in the z-axis direction. The second position 5302 may be a state in which the third frame 531 has rotated from the first position 5301 in the direction of gravity. The second position 5302 may be a state in which the third frame 531 has rotated from the first position 5301 downward from the air conditioner 1. However, the first position 5301 and the second position 5302 of the third frame 531 are not limited thereto.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating an example operation of removing a fixing member 7 of the third frame 531 from the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments. FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of an area G for describing a situation in which the fixing member 7 is detached from an inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531.

Referring to FIG. 17, to repair the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment, the cover grill 32 may open. Repair of the air conditioner 1 may include inspection of internal parts including replacement of the filter module 4, replacement of the dust collecting filter 40, replacement of the support frame 5, and repair of electronic components. Opening the cover grill 32 may be exposing the filter module 4 to the outside. The cover grill 32 may rotate around a connection point at which the cover grill 32 is in contact with the middle panel 34. However, a method of opening the cover grill 32 is not limited thereto.

The third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may be fixed to the panel frame 31. The third frame 531 may include an inserting portion 535 into which the fixing member 7 is inserted. The inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531 may be spaced apart from the support frame 5 in the second direction. The inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531 may be spaced apart from the support frame 5 in the y-axis direction. The fixing member 7 may be inserted into the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531 to fix the third frame 531 to the panel frame 31. While the third frame 531 is fixed to the panel frame 31, the third frame 531 may be at the first position 5301. However, a method of fixing the third frame 531 to the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto. For example, the third frame 531 may be indirectly fixed to the panel frame 31 in such a way as that the third frame 531 is fixed to the support frame 5 and the support frame 5 is fixed to the panel frame 31.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, according to the fixing member 7 being detached from the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531, the third frame 531 may receive a force to rotate in the z-axis direction due to an own weight thereof. According to the fixing member 7 being detached from the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531, the third frame 531 may receive a force to rotate downward from the air conditioner 1 due to an own weight thereof. According to the fixing member 7 being detached from the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531, the third frame 531 may receive a force to rotate in the direction of gravity due to an own weight thereof. The force to rotate may be applied as a torque to the third frame 531 around the rotation shaft 514 of the first frame 51. The force applied to the third frame 531 is not limited thereto.

According to the fixing member 7 being detached from the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment, the third frame 531 may change from the first position 5301 to the second position 5302. According to the fixing member 7 being detached from the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531, the third frame 531 may receive a force to change from the first position 5301 to the second position 5302 by an own weight thereof.

To insert the fixing member 7 into the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment, the third frame 531 may need to have the first position 5301. To change the third frame 531 from the second position 5302 to the first position 5301, an upward force may need to be applied to the third frame 531. To insert the fixing member 7 into the inserting portion 535 of the third frame 531, the third frame 531 may need to maintain the first position 5301. To maintain the third frame 531 at the first position 5301, an upward force applied to the third frame 531 may need to be maintained.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating an example temporary fixing portion 532 of the third frame 531 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 18, the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may include the temporary fixing portion 532. The support frame 5 may include a temporary fixing groove 515. The first frame 51 may include the temporary fixing groove 515. The temporary fixing portion 532 may fix the third frame 531 to the support frame 5 to maintain the third frame 531 at the first position 5301. The temporary fixing portion 532 may fix the third frame 531 to the first frame 51 to maintain the third frame 531 at the first position 5301. The temporary fixing portion 532 may be coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515. The temporary fixing member 532 may be hook-coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515. According to the temporary fixing portion 532 being coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, the third frame 531 may maintain the first position 5301 although an own weight thereof is applied. While the temporary fixing portion 532 is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, the third frame 531 may be at the first position 5301. The temporary fixing portion 532 may support the third frame 531 by being hook-coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515 such that the third frame 531 maintains the first position 5301. However, functions and roles of the temporary fixing portion 532 and the temporary fixing groove 515 are not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 15, 16, and 18, to rotate the third frame 531 while the temporary fixing portion 532 according to an example embodiment is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, a downward force may need to be applied to the third frame 531. To rotate the third frame 531 while the temporary fixing portion 532 is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, a force in the direction of gravity may need to be applied to the third frame 531. To rotate the third frame 531 while the temporary fixing portion 532 is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, a force in the z-axis direction may need to be applied to the third frame 531. By applying a preset force to the third frame 531 while the temporary fixing portion 532 is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, the third frame 531 may change to the second position 5302. By applying a preset torque to the third frame 531 on the rotation shaft 514 of the first frame 51 while the temporary fixing portion 532 is coupled to the temporary fixing groove 515, the third frame 531 may change to the second position 5302. The preset torque that needs to be applied to the third frame 531 to change the third frame 531 from the first position 5301 to the second position 5302 may be a threshold torque.

The third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may include the temporary fixing portion 532 that provides a threshold torque for a rotational movement at the first position 5301. The temporary fixing portion 532 may be hook-coupled to the first frame 51 at the first position 5301 to prevent/inhibit the third frame 531 from rotating by an own weight thereof. According to the temporary fixing portion 532 being hook-coupled to the first frame 51, it may be easy to insert the fixing member 7 into the inserting portion 535 when the third frame 531 is at the first position 5301.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the air conditioner 1 after the dust collecting filter 40 is detached from the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating the air conditioner 1 at another angle after the dust collecting filter 40 is detached from the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, according to the dust collecting filter 40 being detached from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment, the inlet 311 may be exposed. At least a portion of the controller 25 included in the body 20 of the air conditioner 1 may overlap with the inlet 311. According to the dust collecting filter 40 being detached from the air conditioner 1, at least a portion of the controller 25 may be exposed. The dust collecting filter 40 may overlap with the controller 25 in a vertical direction. The dust collecting filter 40 may overlap with the controller 25 in the z-axis direction. The dust collecting filter 40 may overlap with the controller 25 in the direction of gravity. The dust collecting filter 40 may be detached from the air conditioner 1 to repair the controller 25.

The controller 25 of the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may overlap with the third frame 531 in the vertical direction. The third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25 of the air conditioner 1 in the vertical direction. The third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25 in the z-axis direction. The third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25 in the direction of gravity. The third frame 531 may have the first position 5301 at which the third frame 531 overlaps with the controller 25 in the vertical direction. The third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25 in the vertical direction at the first position 5301. While the third frame 531 overlap with the controller 25, there may not be a sufficient space for repairing the controller 25. The third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25 in such a way as that at least a portion of the third frame 531 overlaps with at least a portion of the controller 25. However, an arrangement of the third frame 531 and the controller 25 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a top view showing a state in which the third frame 531 of the air conditioner 1 is at the second position 5302 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 19 to 21, the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may move from the first position 5301 to the second position 5302. The third frame 531 may have a structure capable of moving to the second position 5302 at which the third frame 531 does not overlap with the controller 25 in the vertical direction. While the third frame 531 is at the second position 5302, the third frame 531 may not overlap with the controller 25. While the third frame 531 is at the second position 5302, a space for repairing the controller 25 may be secured. However, a relationship between a position and arrangement of the third frame 531 and repair of the controller 25 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a second guide protrusion 5331 of the third frame 531 and a second guide groove 513 of the first frame 51 according to various embodiments. An enlarged view I may be an enlarged view for describing the second guide protrusion 5331. FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a movement of the third frame 531 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may include the second guide protrusion 5331. The support frame 5 may include the second guide groove 513. The first frame 51 may include the second guide groove 513. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be inserted into the second guide groove 513. The second guide groove 513 may be configured to accommodate the second guide protrusion 5331 therein. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be positioned at an end of the third frame 5331. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be positioned at an end of the third frame 5331 in a direction in which the third frame 531 faces the first frame 51. The second guide protrusion 5331 may protrude from the end of the third frame 531 in the second direction. The second guide protrusion 5331 may extend in the second direction. The second guide protrusion 5331 may extend toward the first frame 51. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be positioned toward the second guide groove 513. The second guide groove 513 may extend in the first direction. However, configurations of the second guide protrusion 5331 and the second guide groove 513 are not limited thereto.

The third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may include a head 5332 having a greater width than that of the second guide groove 513. The head 5332 may prevent/inhibit the second guide protrusion 5331 from departing from the second guide groove 513. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be inserted into the second guide groove 513. The second guide protrusion 5331 may penetrate the second guide groove 513. The second guide protrusion 5331 may be connected to the head 5332 having the greater width than that of the second guide groove 513 by penetrating the second guide groove 513. The second guide groove 513 may include a second protrusion inserting portion 552 positioned in the z-axis direction such that the second guide protrusion 5331 is inserted into the second protrusion inserting portion 552. The second guide groove 513 may guide the second guide protrusion 5331 inserted into the second guide groove 513 to slide in the first direction. A plurality of second guide grooves 513 and a plurality of second guide protrusions 5331 may be provided. However, functions and roles of the second guide protrusion 5331 and the head 5332 are not limited thereto.

The third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may slide with respect to the first frame 51 along the first direction. The second guide protrusion 5331 may guide the third frame 531 to move along the first direction. The second guide groove 513 may guide a movement of the second guide protrusion 5331 such that the third frame 531 is movable along the first direction.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating top view for describing a fourth position 5314 of the third frame 531 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 20, 23, and 24, the third frame 531 according to an example embodiment may have a third position 5313 and the fourth position 5314. The third frame 531 may have the third position 5313 and the fourth position 5314 according to positions of the second guide protrusion 5331 within the second guide groove 513. The third position 5313 may be a position at which the third frame 531 overlaps with the controller 25 in the vertical direction. The third position 5313 may be a position at which the second guide protrusion 5331 is located to one side of the second guide groove 513 within the second guide groove 513 such that the third frame 531 overlaps with the controller 25 in the vertical direction. A position of the third frame 531 overlapping with the controller 35 in the vertical direction may be the third position 5313 or the first position 5301. While the third frame 531 is at the third position 5313 or the first position 5301, the third frame 531 may overlap with the controller 25. While the third frame 531 does not overlap with the controller 25, the third frame 531 may be at the fourth position 5314. The fourth position 5314 may be a position at which the second guide protrusion 5331 is located to an opposite side of the second guide groove 513 within the second guide groove 513 such that the third frame 531 does not overlap with the controller 25 in the vertical direction. According to the third frame 531 being at the fourth position 5314, a space for repairing the controller 25 may be secured. However, a relationship between a position and arrangement of the third frame 531 and repair of the controller 25 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view for describing detachment of the support frame 5 according to various embodiments. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view illustrating detachment of the support frame 5 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may be fixed to the panel frame 31. The support frame 5 may be detached from the panel frame 31. The support frame 5 may be downwardly detached from the panel frame 31. The support frame 5 may be detached in the direction of gravity from the panel frame 31. The support frame 5 may be detached in the z-axis direction from the panel frame 31.

The support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may be fixed to the panel frame 31 by the fixing member 7 assembled from below. The fixing member 7 may be assembled with the first frame 51 to fix the support frame 5 to the panel frame 31. The fixing member 7 may be assembled with the second frame 52 to fix the support frame 5 to the panel frame 31. However, a method of fixing the support frame 5 to the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto.

When the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment is downwardly detached from the panel frame 31, the support frame 5 may receive a downward force by an own weight thereof. When the support frame 5 is downwardly detached from the panel frame 31, the support frame 5 may receive a force by gravity. When the support frame 5 is downwardly detached from the panel frame 31, the support frame 5 may receive a force in the z-axis direction.

When the fixing member 7 fixing the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment to the panel frame 31 is separated, a fixing force of the fixing member 7 supporting the support frame 5 upward may disappear. When the fixing member 7 assembled with the support frame 5 from below is removed, the support frame 5 may fall down. When the fixing member 7 assembled with the support frame 5 from below is removed, it may be needed to prevent/inhibit the support frame 5 from falling.

The second frame 52 according to an example embodiment may include a temporary support portion 512 detachably assembled with the panel frame 31 to prevent/inhibit the support frame 5 from falling when the fixing member 7 is separated. The temporary support portion 512 may be coupled to a temporary support groove 3100 of the panel frame 31. The temporary support portion 512 may be supported on the temporary support groove 3100 of the panel frame 31. The temporary support groove 3100 may support the temporary support portion 512. The temporary support groove 3100 may be coupled to the temporary support portion 512 in a tongs-shaped hook manner. The temporary support groove 3100 may support the second frame 52. The panel frame 31 may support the second frame 52 including the temporary support portion 512 through the temporary support groove 3100. However, functions and roles of the temporary support portion 512 and the temporary support groove 3100 are not limited thereto. For example, the second frame 52 may include the temporary support groove 3100 and the panel frame 31 may include the temporary support portion 512.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view illustrating detachment of the support frame 5 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 27, the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include a fixing support portion 511 configured to be fixed to the panel frame 31 by the fixing member 7 assembled from below. The first frame 51 may include the fixing support portion 511 configured to be fixed to the panel frame 31 by the fixing member 7 assembled from below. The fixing support portion 511 may accommodate the fixing member 7 therein. The fixing member 7 may be accommodated in the fixing support portion 511 by penetrating the panel frame 31. The fixing support portion 511 may be connected to the first frame 51 in an opposite direction of a direction in which the second frame 52 extends from the first frame 51. The fixing support portion 511 may be connected to the first frame 51 in an opposite direction of the second direction. The opposite direction of the second direction may be an opposite direction of the y-axis direction. However, a connection of the fixing support portion 511 is not limited thereto.

At least a part of the fixing support portion 511 according to an example embodiment may overlap with the panel frame 31 in the vertical direction. At least a part of the fixing support portion 511 may overlap with the panel frame 31 in the direction of gravity. At least a part of the fixing support portion 511 may overlap with the panel frame 31 in the z-axis direction. However, an arrangement of the fixing support portion 511 and the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto.

The fixing support portion 511 may overlap with the panel frame 31 above the panel frame 31 in the vertical direction. At least a part of the fixing support portion 511 may overlap with the panel frame 31 above the panel frame 31 in the vertical direction. The panel support portion 511 may be supported on the panel frame 31. The panel frame 31 may support the fixing support portion 511 from below. The panel frame 31 may support at least a part of the fixing support portion 511 from below. The panel frame 31 may support the support frame 5 through at least a part of the fixing support portion 511. However, a method by which the panel frame 31 supports the support frame 5 is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 25 to 27, even when the fixing member 7 fixing the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment to the panel frame 31 is removed, the support frame 5 may be supported on the panel frame 31. The temporary support portion 512 and/or the fixing support portion 511 may fix the support frame 5 to the panel frame 31.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view illustrating detachment of the support frame 5 according to various embodiments. FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating detachment of the support frame 5 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 25, 28, and 29, by applying a downward force to the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment, the support frame 5 may be detached from the panel frame 31. By applying a downward force to the second frame 52, the support frame 5 may be detached from the panel frame 31. By applying a downward force to the temporary support portion 512, the support frame 5 may be detached from the panel frame 31. The downward force may be a force in the direction of gravity. The downward force may be a force in the z-axis direction. However, a method of detaching the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 29, the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include an open detecting sensor 61. The second frame 52 may include the open detecting sensor 61. The open detecting sensor 61 may be positioned on one end of the second frame 52. The open detecting sensor 61 may be positioned on an inner side of the second frame 52. The open detecting sensor 61 may detect whether the cover grill 32 opens. The open detecting sensor 61 may be, but is not limited to, a reed switch configured to detect a magnetic force. The open detecting sensor 61 may transfer information about whether the cover grill 32 opens to the controller 25 of the air conditioner. According to opening of the cover grill 32, the controller 25 may block a voltage that is applied to an electronic device. According to opening of the cover grill 32, the controller 25 may block a voltage that is applied to a dust collecting filter 400. According to opening of the cover grill 32, the controller 25 may block a voltage that is applied to the high voltage power supply (HVPS) 62. According to opening of the cover grill 32, the high voltage power supply 62 may block a voltage that is applied to the electric dust collecting filter 400. However, opening of the cover grill 32 according to an example embodiment and control of the electronic device of the air conditioner 1 are not limited thereto.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating a wire 6 positioned inside the support frame 5 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, the support frame 5 according to an example embodiment may include an accommodating space that covers the wire 6 connected to the electronic device of the air conditioner 1. The wire 6 may be electrically connected to the dust collecting filter 40. The support frame 5 may accommodate the wire 6 electrically connected to the dust collecting filter 40. The wire 6 may be electrically connected to the open detecting sensor 61. The support frame 5 may include an accommodating space that protects the wire 6. The accommodating space of the support frame 5 may be a space in which the wire 6 is shaped. The accommodating space of the support frame 5 may be formed inside the support frame 5. The accommodating space of the support frame 5 may accommodate the wire 6 and protect the wire 6 from being exposed to the outside. The accommodating space of the support frame 5 may not be exposed to the outside while the support frame 5 is separated from the panel frame 31. The support frame 5 may accommodate the wire 6 and protect the wire 6 from an external vibration or impact. The support frame 5 may fix the wire 6 to prevent/inhibit the wire 6 from departing from the support frame 5. However, a relationship between the support frame 5 and the wire 6 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of the filter module 4 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 31, the filter module 4 of the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include the dust collecting filter 400 extending in the second direction along the first frame 51. The filter module 4 may include the dust collecting filter 400 which extends in the second direction and of which both sides are in contact with the second frames 52. Both ends of the dust collecting filter 400 may be positioned between the second frames 52. However, a shape and position of the dust collecting filter 400 are not limited thereto.

Hereinafter, a method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 4 according to the above-described embodiment will be described.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 32, the method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may be a method of detaching the filter module 4 from a ceiling type air conditioner 1. The method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 may be a method of detaching the filter module 4 including the support frame 5 from the panel 30 assembled with the lower portion of the body 20 of the air conditioner 1 configured to be mounted on a ceiling.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 32, the method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S801 of opening the inlet 311 by moving a position of the cover grill 32 positioned below the panel 30. For example, moving the position of the cover grill 32 may be rotating the cover grill 32. As another example, moving the position of the cover grill 32 may be removing the cover grill 32 from the panel 30 of the air conditioner 1. Opening the inlet 311 may be exposing the filter module 4 to the outside. However, operation S801 of opening the inlet 311 by moving the position of the cover grill 32 positioned below the panel 30 is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 32, the method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S802 of removing the fixing member 7 assembled with the fixing support portion 511 of the support frame 5 from below. The fixing member 7 assembled with the fixing support portion 511 of the support frame 5 may act to fix the support frame 5 to the panel frame 31. Even when the fixing member 7 assembled with the fixing support portion 511 of the support frame 5 is removed, the support frame 5 may not be immediately separated from the panel frame 31. However, operation S802 of removing the fixing member 7 assembled with the fixing support portion 511 of the support frame 5 from below is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 28, 29 and 32, the method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31. Operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31 may be an operation of applying a force in the direction of gravity to the support frame 5. The operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31 may be an operation of applying a downward force to the second frame 52. Operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31 may be an operation of applying a force in the z-axis direction to the second frame 52. However, operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31 is not limited thereto.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 33, the method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311.

The method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311, before the operation S803 of separating the temporary support portion 512 of the support frame 5 from the panel frame 31.

The method of detaching the filter module 4 from the air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment may include operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311, after the operation S801 of opening the inlet 311 by moving the position of the cover grill 32 positioned below the panel 30.

Operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311 may be an operation of separating the dust collecting filter 40 from the support frame 5. Operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311 may be an operation of separating the dust collecting filter 40 from the guide portion 520. Operation S8010 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311 may be an operation of separating the first guide groove 521 included in the dust collecting filter 40 from a first guide rail included in the guide portion 520. However, operation S8110 of separating the dust collecting filter 40 positioned in the inlet 311 is not limited thereto.

The above-described embodiments are merely examples, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalents are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true technical protection scope according to the disclosure should be defined by the technical spirit of the disclosure including the appended claims and their equivalents.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a body including a heat exchanger and a blow fan, and a panel assembled with a lower portion of the body, wherein the panel may include: a panel frame assembled with the body and including an inlet through which air flows into the body and an outlet through which air is discharged to outside of the body;

• • a filter module including at least one dust collecting filter positioned in the inlet and configured to collect a foreign material from air received through the inlet, and a support frame supporting the dust collecting filter and assembled with the panel frame in such a way as to be downwardly detachable; and a cover grill covering the inlet with which the filter module is assembled, the cover grill detachably assembled with the panel frame.

The support frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a first frame extending in a first direction, and a second frame extending from both ends of the first frame in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the second frame may include a guide portion configured to guide the dust collecting filter to be inserted into or separated from the second frame along the second direction from below.

The dust collecting filter of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a first guide protrusion positioned at both ends in the first direction, and

• • the guide portion may include a first guide groove into which the first guide protrusion is inserted, the first guide groove configured to guide a movement path of the first guide protrusion.

The dust collecting filter of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a first side configured to receive air and a second side being opposite to the first side and configured to discharge air, and a distance between the first guide protrusion and the first side may be longer than a distance between the first guide protrusion and the second side.

The guide portion of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may be detachably assembled with the support frame.

The first frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a fixing support portion fixed to the panel frame by a fixing member assembled from below, and the second frame may include a temporary support portion detachably assembled with the panel frame and configured to prevent/inhibit the support frame from falling when the fixing member is separated.

The body of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a controller of which at least a portion overlaps with the inlet.

The support frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may further include a third frame supporting a deodorizing filter configured to absorb a chemical material and overlapping with the controller in a vertical direction, and the third frame may include a structure configured to be movable to a first position of overlapping with the controller in the vertical direction and to a second position of not overlapping with the controller in the vertical direction.

The third frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may be configured to perform a rotational movement on a rotation shaft positioned in the first frame.

The third frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a temporary fixing portion configured to provide a threshold torque for the rotational movement at the first position, and the temporary fixing portion may be hook-coupled to the first frame at the first position to prevent/inhibit the third frame from rotating by an own weight thereof.

The third frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may be configured to be movable with respect to the first frame along the first direction.

The first frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a second guide groove extending in the first direction, and a second guide protrusion protruding in the second direction from an end of the third frame may penetrate the second guide groove and be connected to a head having a greater width than a width of the second guide groove.

The dust collecting filter of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include an electric dust collecting filter configured to collect a foreign material included in outside air using an electrostatic force.

The support frame of the air conditioner according to an example embodiment may be configured to accommodate a wire electrically connected to the dust collecting filter.

A method of detaching a filter module from an air conditioner according to an example embodiment, which is a method of detaching a filter module including a dust collecting filter and a support frame from a panel assembled with a lower portion of a body of an air conditioner configured to be mounted on a ceiling, may include: opening an inlet by moving a position of a cover grill positioned below the panel; separating the dust collecting filter positioned in the inlet; removing a fixing member assembled with a fixing support portion of the support frame from below; and separating a temporary support portion of the support frame from a panel frame.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a filter module manufactured in a separate process from that of a panel frame.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner with high manufacturing efficiency.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner with high assembly efficiency.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a filter module that is detachable from below.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner from which a dust collecting filter is detachable.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a filter module from which a dust collecting filter is downwardly detachable.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of preventing/inhibiting a dust collecting filter from being wrongly assembled.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a guide portion supporting a dust collecting filter to prevent/inhibit the dust collecting filter from falling.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a support frame supporting a guide portion from below to stably support a dust collecting filter.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a filter module including an electric dust collecting filter configured to charge a foreign material in air using an electrostatic force and collect the foreign material.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of detecting whether a cover grill opens.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of providing safety by blocking supply of power to an electric dust collecting filter according to opening of a cover grill.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a third frame configured to support a deodorizing filter and change a position.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a third frame capable of changing a position not to overlap with a controller in a vertical direction.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a third frame capable of rotating not to overlap a controller in a vertical direction.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a third frame capable of moving in a side direction not to overlap a controller in a vertical direction.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a third frame configured to be temporarily fixed without rotating by an own weight thereof.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of promoting service convenience of a controller.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of promoting convenience of repair.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner capable of, when a support frame is separated from a panel frame, preventing/inhibiting the support frame from falling.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may provide an air conditioner including a support frame capable of accommodating a wire therein and protecting the wire.

An air conditioner according to an example embodiment may include a filter module manufactured in a separate process from that of a panel frame.

While the disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various example embodiments, it will be understood that the various example embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternatives and/or variations of the various example embodiments may be made without departing from the true technical spirit and full technical scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.