MOUNTING DEVICE AND AIR CONDITIONING APPARATUS INCLUDING SAME

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR2024/002503 designating the United States, filed on Feb. 27, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Receiving Office and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2023-0052253, filed on Apr. 20, 2023, and 10-2023-0088693, filed on Jul. 7, 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 a mounting device with an improved structure and an air conditioning apparatus including the same.

Description of Related Art

An air conditioning apparatus is an appliance that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, and heating in an air-conditioned space, and refers to an appliance with at least one of these functions.

An air conditioning apparatus may use a refrigeration cycle to cool or heat a space. An air conditioning apparatus may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and piping. Refrigerant may be circulated through the compressor, the condenser, the expansion device, and the evaporator along the piping.

Air conditioning apparatuses may be categorized as split-type and integral-type. Split-type apparatuses may include an indoor unit that is placed indoors and an outdoor unit that is placed outdoors. Integral-type apparatuses may have both an indoor unit and an outdoor unit within one housing.

For example, a mounting device may be required to hold the air conditioning apparatus to a structure. The mounting device may be mounted to the structure, and then the air conditioning apparatus may be mounted to the mounting device.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a mounting device with an improved structure.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a mounting device with improved assemblability.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a mounting device that may be easily mounted to a structure.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a mounting device in which damage caused by external impact may be reduced and/or prevented.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide air conditioning apparatus including a mounting device with an improved structure.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a mounting device to mount an air conditioner to a window frame includes: a fixed frame configured to support the air conditioner and to be mounted to the window frame, a movable frame movable up and down relative to the fixed frame, and a plurality of cover panels configured to be mounted to the movable frame to cover a region surrounded by the fixed frame and the movable frame, each of the plurality of cover panels being arranged along a moving direction of the movable frame, wherein plurality of cover panels includes a first cover panel, and a second cover panel detachably couplable to the first cover panel.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioning apparatus includes: an air conditioner and a mounting device configured to mount the air conditioner to a window frame, the mounting device including: a fixed frame, a movable frame, and a plurality of cover panels, the fixed frame including: a first frame portion configured to be fixable to a lower portion of the window frame, a second frame portion extending upwardly from one side of the first frame portion, a third frame portion extending from the other side of the first frame portion parallel to the second frame portion, and a fourth frame portion connecting the second frame portion and the third frame portion, the movable frame including a fifth frame portion movable relative to the second frame portion, a sixth frame portion movable relative to the third frame portion, and a seventh frame portion connecting the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion and configured to be fixed to an upper portion of the window frame. Each of the plurality of cover panels has a shape extending between the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion. Each of the plurality of cover panels may be configured to be movable along the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion.

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 illustrating an air conditioning apparatus according to various embodiments;

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

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 2 from another direction according to various embodiments;

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

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mounting device according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the mounting device shown in FIG. 5 from another direction according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the mounting device shown in FIG. 5 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a mounting device according to various embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fixed frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a movable frame according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting device according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of portion B shown in FIG. 11 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the fixed frame is fixed to a structure according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the movable frame is fixed to a structure according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which a portion of a plurality of cover panels is being removed from the mounting device according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which a first cover panel and a second cover panel are separated according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective bottom view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a perspective front view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the first cover panel and the second cover panel are coupled according to various embodiments;

FIG. 20 is a perspective rear view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of portion E shown in FIG. 20 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D′ in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a coupling protrusion of the second cover panel shown in FIG. 23 is being pressed according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the second cover panel shown in FIG. 24 is being separated from the first cover panel according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various example embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

In the disclosure, phrases, such as “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 any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

In addition, the terms ‘portion’, ‘part’, ‘module’ and ‘member’ may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, a plurality of ‘portions’, ‘parts’, ‘modules’, and ‘members’ may be implemented as a single element, or a single ‘portions, ‘part’, ‘module’, or ‘member’ may include a plurality of elements.

Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”, “primary”, or “secondary” may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

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

It will be understood that when the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including”, and/or “comprising” are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified 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.

When a given element is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In other words, the air conditioner may perform a cooling or heating function by a phase change process of a refrigerant circulated between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor to compress the refrigerant. The compressor may draw refrigerant gas through an inlet and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor may discharge high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through an outlet. The compressor may be disposed inside the outdoor unit.

Through the refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be circulated sequentially through the compressor, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the indoor heat exchanger or sequentially circulated through the compressor, the indoor heat exchanger, the expansion device, and the outdoor heat exchanger.

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

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

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

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

The plurality of outdoor units may be driven or at least some of the plurality of outdoor units may not be driven, in accordance with to a driving load corresponding to an operating amount of the plurality of indoor units. The refrigerant may be provided through a flow path switching valve to be introduced into and circulated to an outdoor unit that is selectively driven. The air conditioner may include the expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be disposed inside the indoor unit or inside the outdoor unit, or disposed both inside the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

The expansion device may reduce the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant using a throttling effect. The expansion device may include an orifice configured to reduce a cross-sectional area of a flow path. A temperature and pressure of the refrigerant passing through the orifice may be lowered.

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

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

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

When a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, the accumulator may separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas, and supply the refrigerant gas separated from the refrigerant liquid to the compressor.

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

The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be disposed at a given position of the inside or the outside of the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor configured to detect an air temperature around the outdoor unit, an air humidity sensor configured to detect air humidity around the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect a refrigerant temperature in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor configured to detect a refrigerant pressure in a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be obtained through the microphone. The microphone may convert a user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to the indoor unit controller. The indoor unit controller may control components of the air conditioner to perform a function corresponding to the user's voice command. The setting data obtained through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, cooling/heating/dehumidifying/air cleaning operation mode setting, outlet selection setting, and/or air volume setting) may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller to be described in greater detail below. For example, the setting data obtained through the input interface may be transmitted to the outside, that is, to the outdoor unit or a server through an indoor unit communication circuitry to be described in greater detail 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 environmental sensor disposed inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and/or humidity sensors disposed in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor configured to detect a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor each configured to detect a temperature of an entrance, a middle portion and/or an exit of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

For example, each environmental information detected by the indoor unit sensor may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller to be described in greater detail below or transmitted to the outside through the indoor unit communication circuitry to be described in greater detail below.

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

The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hereinafter, various example embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

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

For example, referring to FIG. 1, a direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces an indoor I may be defined as forward (+X direction), and a direction in which the air conditioner 3 faces an outdoor O may be defined as rearward (−X direction). For example, a height direction of the air conditioner 3 may be defined as a vertical direction (or an up-and-down direction) (Z direction). However, this may be defined with respect to the drawings, and the shape and position of each configuration are not limited by these terms.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an air conditioning apparatus according to various embodiments.

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

The mounting device 2 may be provided to mount an air conditioner 3, which will be described in greater detail below, to a structure A (e.g., including 4(A) and 5(A). The mounting device 2 may be provided to hold the air conditioner 3. The mounting device 2 may allow the air conditioner 3 to be installed on the structure A.

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

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

The mounting device 2 may also be referred to as a mounting assembly 2, a mounting unit 2, a mounting kit 2, a mounting assembly 2, a holding unit 2, a holding kit 2, a holding device 2, an installation assembly 2, an installation unit 2, an installation kit 2, an installation device 2, or the like.

For example, the structure A may include a window frame and/or a window. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure A may be provided in various ways depending on the type of the air conditioner 3. For example, the structure A may include at least one of a wall, a ceiling, or a floor. The drawings illustrate an example in which the structure A is a window frame A. Hereinafter, for ease of description, the structure A may be referred to as a window frame A. However, the present disclosure is not limited to what is shown in the drawings, and it is sufficient that the structure A includes a configuration to which the air conditioner 3 is mounted.

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

The air conditioner 3 may be provided to be mounted on the mounting device 2. The air conditioner 3 may be provided to be mounted on the structure A as it is mounted on the mounting device 2. The air conditioner 3 may be installed on the structure A via the mounting device 2.

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

The air conditioning apparatus 1 may include the air conditioner 3 and the mounting device 2 configured to mount the air conditioner 3 to the structure A.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 2 from another direction according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

The air conditioner 3 may include a housing 10. The housing 10 may be provided to form the overall appearance of the air conditioner 3. The housing 10 may have a substantially box shape.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example, the housing 10 may include a bottom panel. The bottom panel may form a lower surface of the air conditioner 3. The bottom panel may be provided to support at least a portion of a configuration disposed inside the air conditioner 3.

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

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

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

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

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

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

A first flow path F1 (see FIG. 4) may be formed inside the housing 10. Outdoor air may flow along the first flow path F1. The first flow path F1 may be formed between the first inlet 31 and the first outlet 32. For example, the first heat exchanger 40 may be provided on the first flow path F1. For example, a first fan 70 may be provided on the first flow path F1.

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

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

The housing 10 may include a second outlet 52 through which indoor air that has passed through a second heat exchanger 60 is discharged. The indoor air introduced into the housing 10 through the second inlet 51 may be discharged to the outdoor O through the second outlet 52 after being heat exchanged with the second heat exchanger 60.

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

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

A second flow path F2 (see FIG. 4) may be formed inside the housing 10. Indoor air may flow in the second flow path F2. The second flow path F2 may be formed between the second inlet 51 and the second outlet 52. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 may be provided on the second flow path F2. For example, a second fan 80 may be provided on the second flow path F2.

The first flow path F1 and the second flow path F2 may be provided to be partitioned from each other. The outdoor air flowing through the first flow path F1 and the indoor air flowing through the second flow path F2 may not mix inside the housing 10.

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

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

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

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

The air conditioner 3 may include the first heat exchanger 40. The first heat exchanger 40 may be configured to exchange heat with the outdoor air introduced through the first inlet 31. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed on the first flow path F1. The first heat exchanger 40 may be disposed to face the first inlet 31.

The air conditioner 3 may include the second heat exchanger 60. The second heat exchanger 60 may be configure to exchange heat with the indoor air introduced through the second inlet 51. The second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed on the second flow path F2. At least a portion of the second heat exchanger 60 may be disposed to face the second inlet 51. For example, the second heat exchanger 60 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the second fan 80.

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

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

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

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

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mounting device according to various embodiments. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the mounting device shown in FIG. 5 from another direction according to various embodiments. FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the mounting device shown in FIG. 5 according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting device according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fixed frame according to various embodiments. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a movable frame according to various embodiments. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting device according to various embodiments. FIG. 12 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of portion B shown in FIG. 11 according to various embodiments.

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

For example, the mounting device 2 may include a fixed frame 100. For example, the mounting device 2 may include a movable frame 200. For example, the frame may include the fixed frame 100 and/or the movable frame 200. However, the frame may also be provided as a single configuration.

The fixed frame 100 may be mounted to the structure A (see FIGS. 13 to 15). The fixed frame 100 may be fixed to the structure A. The fixed frame 100 may be configured to be fixable to a lower portion 5 of the structure A.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The fixed frame 100 may include a lower fixing bracket 160. The lower fixing bracket 160 may be provided on the first frame portion 110. The lower fixing bracket 160 may be provided to be in contact with the lower portion 5 of the structure A. For example, a first fastening member 190 may press the lower portion 5 of the structure A and the lower fixing bracket 160 into close contact.

The fixed frame 100 may include a lifting guide portion 170 for guiding the vertical movement of the movable frame 200. The lifting guide portion 170 may include a first moving rail 171 formed on the second frame portion 120. The first moving rail 171 may extend along an extension direction of the second frame portion 120. The first moving rail 171 may extend along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The lifting guide portion 170 may include a second moving rail 172 formed on the third frame portion 130. The second moving rail 172 may extend along the extension direction of the third frame portion 130. The second moving rail 172 may extend along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

The fixed frame 100 may include a fixing panel 180. The fixing panel 180 may be disposed adjacent to the structure A to prevent/inhibit the mounting device 2 from tipping over. In the drawings, the fixing panel 180 is shown as being formed on the second frame portion 120, but is not limited thereto. For example, the fixing panel 180 may be formed on the third frame portion 130. For example, the fixing panel 180 may be formed on the second frame portion 120 and the third frame portion 130.

The movable frame 200 may be mounted to the structure A (see FIGS. 14 and 15). The movable frame 200 may be fixed to the structure A. The movable frame 200 may be provided to be fixable to an upper portion 4 of the structure A.

The movable frame 200 may be configured to move vertically relative to the fixed frame 100. The movable frame 200 may be configured to move up and down relative to the fixed frame 100. The movable frame 200 may be configured to move relative to the fixed frame 100. The movable frame 200 may be configure to move along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The movable frame 200 may be configured to be withdrawable from the fixed frame 100. The movable frame 200 may be configured to be insertable into the fixed frame 100.

The movable frame 200 may include a fifth frame portion 220. The fifth frame portion 220 may extend along a moving direction of the movable frame 200. The fifth frame portion 220 may be configured to be movable relative to the second frame portion 120 of the fixed frame 100. The fifth frame portion 220 may be configured to be movable up and down relative to the second frame portion 120 of the fixed frame 100. The fifth frame portion 220 may be configured to move along the first moving rail 171 formed on the second frame portion 120. The fifth frame portion 220 may be configured to be slidable along the first moving rail 171. The fifth frame portion 220 may be configured to be withdrawable from and insertable into the first moving rail 171. The fifth frame portion 220 of the movable frame 200 may be referred to as a first side frame portion 220 of the movable frame 200.

The movable frame 200 may include a sixth frame portion 230. The sixth frame portion 230 may extend along the moving direction of the movable frame 200. The sixth frame portion 230 may extend parallel to the fifth frame portion 220. The sixth frame portion 230 may be configured to be movable relative to the third frame portion 130 of the fixed frame 100. The sixth frame portion 230 may be configured to be movable up and down relative to the third frame portion 130 of the fixed frame 100. The sixth frame portion 230 may be configured to move along the second moving rail 172 formed on the third frame portion 130. The sixth frame portion 230 may be configured to be slidable along the second moving rail 172. The sixth frame portion 230 may be configured to be withdrawable from and insertable into the second moving rail 172. The sixth frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200 may be referred to as a second side frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200.

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

The movable frame 200 may include a panel rail 250 extending along the moving direction of the movable frame 200. The panel rail 250 may be configured to guide a plurality of cover panels 300, which will be described in greater detail below. The panel rail 250 may be referred to as a panel guide portion 250.

For example, the movable frame 200 may include a first panel rail 251 formed on the fifth frame portion 220. For example, the first panel rail 251 may extend along the extension direction of the fifth frame portion 220. For example, the first panel rail 251 may extend along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, a first side portion 311 (see FIGS. 16 to 18) of the cover panel 300, which will be described in greater detail below, may be configured to be slidable along the first panel rail 251. The first side portion 311 may include the first side portion 311a of the first cover panel 300a and the first side portion 311b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the first side portion 311 of the cover panel 300 may be configured to be withdrawable from and insertable into the first panel rail 251.

For example, the movable frame 200 may include a second panel rail 252 formed on the sixth frame portion 230. For example, the second panel rail 252 may extend along the extension direction of the sixth frame portion 230. For example, the second panel rail 252 may extend along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction). For example, a second side portion 312 (see FIGS. 16 to 18) of the cover panel 300, which will be described in greater detail below, may be configured to be slidably movable along the second panel rail 252. The second side portion 312 may include the second side portion 312a of the first cover panel 300a and the second side portion 312b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the second side portion 312 of the cover panel 300 may be configured to be withdrawable from and insertable into the second panel rail 252.

The mounting device 2 may include a screen 30. The screen 30 may cover a space between the air conditioner 3 and the structure A. For example, the screen 30 may be configured to block between a first space (e.g., the indoor I) and a second space (e.g., the outdoor O) (see FIG. 1).

The screen 30 may include a plurality of cover panels 300. The screen 30 may refer to an assembly of the plurality of cover panels 300.

The mounting device 2 may include the plurality of cover panels 300. The plurality of cover panels 300 may be provided on the movable frame 200. The plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to cover an inner region of the movable frame 200.

The plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be mounted to the movable frame 200 to cover an area surrounded by the fixed frame 100 and the movable frame 200 (see FIGS. 1 and 15). For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may cover the area surrounded by the fixed frame 100, the fifth frame portion 220, the sixth frame portion 230, and the seventh frame portion 240.

For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to define a covered area of the screen 30. For example, the covered area of the screen 30 may be determined according to the number of the plurality of cover panels 300. For example, the more the number of the plurality of cover panels 300, the greater the covered area of the screen 30 may be. For example, as the number of the plurality of cover panels 300 decreases, the covered area of the screen 30 may become smaller. Accordingly, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be provided in various numbers to match the shape and/or size of the structure A. As will be described in greater detail below, for example, a portion of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be separated from the movable frame 200, corresponding to the covered area of the screen 30.

Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be arranged along the moving direction of the movable frame 200. Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be arranged along the substantially vertical direction (Z direction).

Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to extend between the fifth frame portion 220 and the sixth frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200. Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be movable along the fifth frame portion 220 and the sixth frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200. Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be movable up and down along the fifth frame portion 220 and the sixth frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200.

The plurality of cover panels 300 may be slidable along the panel rail 250 of the movable frame 200. For example, the first side portion 311 of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to slide along the first panel rail 251. For example, the second side portion 312 of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to slide along the second panel rail 252.

The plurality of cover panels 300 may be coupled to or separated from the movable frame 200 by moving along the panel rail 250. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be coupled to the movable frame 200 by moving upwardly along the panel rail 250. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be separated from the movable frame 200 by moving downwardly along the panel rail 250. For example, the first side portion 311 of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be releasably coupled to the first panel rail 251. For example, the second side portion 312 of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be releasably coupled to the second panel rail 252.

For example, each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may include a plastic material. In an example of related art, a screen may be provided as a roll-type member or a pleated-type member. In such cases, the screen may be easily damaged, such as by being torn or dented by external impact. However, according to the present disclosure, the screen 30 may be configured with the plurality of cover panels 300 formed from a plastic material, which may secure sufficient rigidity compared to conventional products. In other words, the plurality of cover panels 300 may not be easily damaged by external impact.

For example, the interior of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be filled with an insulating material. For example, the interior of each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be filled with a porous material to prevent/reduce air from circulating. As a result, the thermal insulation performance of the cover panel 300 may be improved. Heat exchange between the indoor I and the outdoor O may be prevented/reduced. As the cover panel 300 of the mounting device 2 may more effectively block the indoor I and the outdoor O, the air conditioning performance of the air conditioner 3 may be improved.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the fixed frame is fixed to a structure according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the movable frame is fixed to a structure according to various embodiments. FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which a portion of a plurality of cover panels is being removed from the mounting device according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 14, an example of a process in which the mounting device 2 is mounted to the structure A will be described.

Referring to FIG. 13, the fixed frame 100 may be fixed to the structure A. The fixed frame 100 may be fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A. The first frame portion 110 of the fixed frame 100 may be fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A.

For example, with the lower fixing bracket 160 of the fixed frame 100 corresponding to the lower portion 5 of the structure A, the first fastening member 190 may be fastened to the lower fixing bracket 160. The first fastening member 190 may press the lower fixing bracket 160 and the lower portion 5 of the structure A into close contact.

Referring to FIG. 14, in a state where the fixed frame 100 is fixed, the movable frame 200 may be movable up and down. The fixed frame 100 may be fixable to the lower portion 5 of the structure A, and the movable frame 200 may be movable upwardly relative to the fixed frame 100 and fixable to the upper portion 4 of the structure A. In a state where the fixed frame 100 is fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A, the movable frame 200 may be moved toward the upper portion 4 of the structure A and fixed to the upper portion 4 of the structure A. The movable frame 200 may be movable up and down to fit the shape and/or size of the structure A.

For example, in a state where an upper fixing bracket 260 of the movable frame 200 corresponds to the upper portion 4 of the structure A, a second fastening member 290 may be fastened to the upper fixing bracket 260. The second fastening member 290 may press the upper fixing bracket 260 and the upper portion 4 of the structure A into close contact.

On the other hand, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be movable up and down together with the movable frame 200 relative to the fixed frame 100. In other words, when the movable frame 200 moves relative to the fixed frame 100, the plurality of cover panels 300 provided on the movable frame 200 may also move relative to the fixed frame 100. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be movable up and down together with the movable frame 200 in a state of being coupled to the fifth frame portion 220 and the sixth frame portion 230 of the movable frame 200.

Referring to FIG. 15, in a state where the fixed frame 100 is fixed to the lower portion 5 of the structure A and the movable frame 200 is fixed to the upper portion 4 of the structure A, a portion of the screen 30 may be removed. In other words, in a state where the mounting device 2 is fixed to the structure A, at least one or more cover panels 300 (P2) of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be separated from the movable frame 200.

For example, at least one or more cover panels 300 (P1) of the plurality of cover panels 300 that covers a region surrounded by the fixed frame 100 and the movable frame 200 may be retained. For example, at least one or more cover panels 300 (P1) of the plurality of cover panels 300 that covers a region surrounded by the fixed frame 100, the fifth frame portion 220, the sixth frame portion 230, and the seventh frame portion 240 may be retained.

For example, at least one or more cover panels of the plurality of cover panels 300, such as the cover panel 300 (P2) that covers a region surrounded by the fixed frame 100, may be removed from the mounting device 2. For example, at least one or more cover panels of the plurality of cover panels 300, such as the cover panel 300 (P2) that covers the mounting opening 150 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) of the fixed frame 100, may be removed from the mounting device 2. For example, the at least one or more cover panels 300 (P2) may be separated from the movable frame 200 by moving downwardly along the panel rail 250 of the movable frame 200. Accordingly, the mounting device 2 may secure a space for supporting the air conditioner 3. The fixed frame 100 may secure the mounting opening 150.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which a first cover panel and a second cover panel are separated according to various embodiments. FIG. 17 is a bottom exploded perspective view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments. FIG. 18 is a front exploded perspective view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 16 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, the cover panel 300 included among the plurality of cover panels 300 will be described. For example, a first cover panel 300a and a second cover panel 300b that are adjacent to each other among the plurality of cover panels 300 may be described. For ease of understanding, reference numerals for a configuration of the first cover panel 300a may be suffixed with “a”, and reference numerals for a configuration of the second cover panel 300b may be suffixes with “b”.

The plurality of cover panels 300 may include the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b that is detachably couplable to the first cover panel 300a. Although the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b are shown in the drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be provided as three or more. For example, a third cover panel may be coupled to an upper portion of the first cover panel 300a or to a lower portion of the second cover panel 300b.

Each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include a panel body 310. The panel body 310 may include the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a and the panel body 310b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the panel body 310 may have a shape extending between the fifth frame portion 220 and the sixth frame portion 230. For example, the first side portion 311 of the panel body 310 may be configured to be movable up and down along the first panel rail 251 formed on the fifth frame portion 220. For example, the second side portion 312 of the panel body 310 may be configured to be movable up and down along the second panel rail 252 formed on the sixth frame portion 230.

The first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may each include an insertion portion 320 formed on an upper portion of the panel body 310. The insertion portion 320 may include the insertion portion 320a of the first cover panel 300a and the insertion portion 320b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the insertion portion 320 may have a shape extending upwardly from the panel body 310.

The first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may each include an opening portion 330 formed on a lower portion of the panel body 310. The opening portion 330 may include the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a and the opening portion 330b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the opening portion 330 may be formed by an open lower surface of the panel body 310. For example, the opening portion 330 may allow the interior of the panel body 310 to be exposed.

The first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may each include a coupling hole 350. The coupling hole 350 may include the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a and the coupling hole 350b of the second cover panel 300b. The coupling hole 350 may have a shape corresponding to a coupling protrusion 340, which will be described in greater detail below. The coupling hole 350 may be configured to communicate with the opening portion 330. The coupling hole 350 may be formed by cutting a portion of the panel body 310. For example, the coupling hole 350 may be formed by penetrating a front surface of the panel body 310. In the drawings, the coupling hole 350 is shown as having a substantially rectangular shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the coupling hole 350 may have various shapes, such as a circle, a polygon, or the like.

The first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may each include the coupling protrusion 340. The coupling protrusion 340 may include the coupling protrusion 340a of the first cover panel 300a and the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b. The coupling protrusion 340 may have a shape corresponding to the coupling hole 350. The coupling protrusion 340 may be provided on an upper side of the panel body 310. The coupling protrusion 340 may be formed on the insertion portion 320. In the drawings, the coupling protrusion 340 is shown as having a substantially rectangular shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the coupling protrusion 340 may have various shapes, such as a circle, a polygon, or the like.

For example, the insertion portion 320 may include a protrusion 321 protruding upwardly from the panel body 310. The protrusion 321 may include the protrusion 321a of the first cover panel 300a and the protrusion 321b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, the insertion portion 320 may include a through-hole 322 formed through the protrusion 321. The through-hole 322 may include the through-hole 322a of the first cover panel 300a and the through-hole 322b of the second cover panel 300b. For example, one end 341 of the coupling protrusion 340 may be adjacent to the protrusion 321, and the other end 342 of the coupling protrusion 340 may be provided to be located within the through-hole 322. For example, the coupling protrusion 340 may extend from the protrusion 321 toward an inward side of the through-hole 322. For example, the one end 341 of the coupling protrusion 340 may be provided as a fixed end, and the other end 342 of the coupling protrusion 340 may be provided as a free end. In detail, the one end 341b of the coupling protrusion 340b may be provided as a fixed end, and the other end 342a of the coupling protrusion 340a may be provided as a free end.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a state in which the first cover panel and the second cover panel are coupled according to various embodiments. FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of the first cover panel and the second cover panel shown in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments. FIG. 22 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of portion E shown in FIG. 20 according to various embodiments. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D′ in FIG. 19 according to various embodiments. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which a coupling protrusion of the second cover panel shown in FIG. 23 is being pressed according to various embodiments. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the second cover panel shown in FIG. 24 is being separated from the first cover panel according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 19 to 25, the coupling relationship of the plurality of cover panels 300 will be described. For example, the coupling relationship between the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b that are adjacent to each other among the plurality of cover panels 300 may be described. For ease of understanding, reference numerals for a configuration of the first cover panel 300a may be suffixed with “a”, and reference numerals for a configuration of the second cover panel 300b may be suffixed with “b”.

Referring to FIGS. 19 to 22, the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may be coupled to each other. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may have a stacked structure.

At least a portion of the second cover panel 300b may be insertable into the first cover panel 300a. The insertion portion 320b of the second cover panel 300b may be inserted into an interior of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a through the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a. The insertion portion 320b of the second cover panel 300b may enter the interior of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a through the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a.

A coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be couplable to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a. The coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be configured to be coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a through the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a. The coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be configured to be inserted into the interior of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a and coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a.

Referring to FIG. 23, at least a portion of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be configured to be exposed outwardly of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a through the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a. For example, at least a portion of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be exposed to a front side of the panel body 310a.

An outer surface 343 of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b, which is exposed outwardly of the panel body 310a through the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a, may be connected to an outer surface 313 of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a so as not to protrude or be recessed against the outer surface 313 of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a. For example, the outer surface 343 may be connected to the outer surface 313 without a step within a predetermined tolerance. As a result, the plurality of cover panels 300 may form a substantially seamless appearance. The plurality of cover panels 300 may have a substantially smooth appearance.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be separable from the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a in a second direction D2 by being pressed in a first direction D1. For example, the first direction D1 may be a rearward direction (−X direction).

The coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be elastically deformed by being pressed in the first direction D1, thereby being disengaged from the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a. For example, the other end 342b of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may move inwardly toward the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a.

As the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b is disengaged from the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a, the second cover panel 300b may be separable from the first cover panel 300a in the second direction D2. For example, the second direction D2 may be a direction intersecting the first direction D1. For example, the second direction D2 may be a downward direction (−Z direction). For example, the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be configured not to engage an edge forming the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a as it is pressed, and the second cover panel 300b may be separated from the first cover panel 300a.

In an example of related art, a screen may be provided as a roll-type member or a pleated-type member. In such cases, the screen may be provided as a single configuration, and may not be remove a portion of the screen or extend the screen further. In an example of related art, a screen housing for accommodating the screen may be additionally required. This may increase the weight of the mounting device, and may cause the mounting device may sag or tip over. Due to the material cost of the screen housing, the manufacturing cost of the mounting device may be high. In an example of related art, the screen housing may generally have a shape protruding from a structure (e.g., a window frame). For example, a user or the like may interfere with the protruding shape of the screen housing. As a result, securing the mounting device to the structure may not be easy. Furthermore, the screen may be easily damaged, such as by being torn or dented by external impact.

However, according to the present disclosure, the plurality of cover panels 300 may have a removable structure. For example, a portion of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be removed, or at least one or more cover panels 300 may be additionally attached to the plurality of cover panels 300. Accordingly, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to correspond to the shape and/or size of the structure A. In addition, according to the present disclosure, a separate screen housing for accommodating the screen may not be required. Accordingly, the weight of the mounting device 2 may be reduced, and the manufacturing cost of the mounting device 2 may be lowered. In addition, the plurality of cover panels 300 may not have a shape protruding from the structure A. For example, the plurality of cover panels 300 may have a flat shape. Accordingly, securing the mounting device 2 to the structure A may be easy. The aesthetic appearance of the mounting device 2 may be excellent. According to the present disclosure, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be formed of a plastic material, which may not be easily damaged by external impact.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the mounting device 2 for mounting an air conditioner to a window frame may include the fixed frame 100 configured to support the air conditioner and to be mounted to the window frame, the movable frame 200 movable up and down relative to the fixed frame, and the plurality of cover panels 300 configured to be mounted to the movable frame to cover a region surrounded by the fixed frame and the movable frame. Each of the plurality of cover panels may be arranged along a moving direction of the movable frame. The plurality of cover panels 300 may include the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b detachably couplable to the first cover panel.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the movable frame 200 may further include the panel rail 250 extending along the moving direction of the movable frame. The plurality of cover panels 300 are slidable along the panel rail 250.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be couplable to the movable frame by moving upwardly along the panel rail. The plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to be separable from the movable frame by moving downwardly along the panel rail.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the panel body 310. Each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the insertion portion 320 formed on an upper portion of the panel body. Each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the opening portion 330 formed on a lower portion of the panel body.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion portion 320b of the second cover panel 300b may be insertable into the panel body 310a of the first cover panel through the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the coupling hole 350 in communication with the opening portion and formed by cutting out a portion of the panel body. Each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the coupling protrusion 340 formed on the insertion portion and having a shape corresponding to the coupling hole. The coupling protrusion of the second cover panel may be couplable to the coupling hole of the first cover panel.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be configured to enter the interior of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a through the opening portion 330a of the first cover panel 300a to be coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be elastically deformed by being pressed in the first direction D1, thereby being disengaged from the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a. As the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b is disengaged from the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a, the second cover panel may be separable from the first cover panel in the second direction D2.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be configured to be exposed outwardly of the panel body of the first cover panel through the coupling hole of the first cover panel.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer surface 343 of the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b exposed outwardly of the panel body 310a through the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be connected to the outer surface 313 of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a so as not to protrude or be recessed against the outer surface 313 of the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion portion 320 may include the protrusion 321 protruding upwardly from the panel body, and the through-hole 322 formed through the protrusion. One end 341 of the coupling protrusion may be adjacent to the protrusion 321, and the other end 342 of the coupling protrusion may be located within the through-hole 322.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may include a plastic material.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the movable frame 200 may include the first side frame portion 220 extending along the moving direction of the movable frame, the second side frame portion 230 extending parallel to the first side frame portion, and the upper frame portion 240 connecting the first side frame portion and the second side frame portion and configured to be fixed to the window frame. Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be configured to extend between the first side frame portion and the second side frame portion. Each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may be movable up and down along the first side frame portion and the second side frame portion.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of cover panels 300 may be movable up and down together with the movable frame 200 relative to the fixed frame 100.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixed frame 100 may be fixable to the lower portion 5 of the window frame. The movable frame 200 may be movable upwardly relative to the fixed frame and fixable to an upper portion 4 of the window frame.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the air conditioning apparatus 1 may include the air conditioner 3 and the mounting device 2 configured to mount the air conditioner 3 to a window frame. The mounting device 2 may include the fixed frame 100, the movable frame 200, and thd plurality of cover panels 300. The fixed frame 100 may include a first frame portion configured to be fixable to a lower portion of the window frame, a second frame portion extending upwardly from one side of the first frame portion, a third frame portion extending from the other side of the first frame portion parallel to the second frame portion, and a fourth frame portion connecting the second frame portion and the third frame portion. The movable frame 200 may include a fifth frame portion movable relative to the second frame portion, a sixth frame portion movable relative to the third frame portion, and a seventh frame portion connecting the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion and configured to be fixed to an upper portion of the window frame. Each of the plurality of cover panels may have a shape extending between the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion. Each of the plurality of cover panels may be configured to be movable along the fifth frame portion and the sixth frame portion.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of cover panels may include the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b detachably couplable to the first cover panel.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first cover panel 300a and the second cover panel 300b may include the panel body 310, the coupling protrusion 340 arranged on an upper side of the panel body, and the coupling hole 350 formed by cutting out a portion of the panel body and having a shape corresponding to the coupling protrusion. The coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b may be configured to be inserted into the panel body 310a of the first cover panel 300a and coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the coupling protrusion 340b of the second cover panel 300b coupled to the coupling hole 350a of the first cover panel 300a may be separable from the coupling hole of the first cover panel in the second direction D2 by being pressed in the first direction D1.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of cover panels 300 may include a plastic material.

According to the present disclosure, the assemblability of the mounting device may be improved.

According to the present disclosure, the mounting device may be easily fixed to a structure.

According to the present disclosure, damage to the mounting device caused by external impact may be reduced and/or prevented.

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

The effects to be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the detailed description.

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.