AIR CONDITIONER

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR 2025/014138 designating the United States, filed on Sep. 11, 2025, in the Korean Intellectual Property Receiving Office and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0163606, filed on Nov. 15, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure relates to an air conditioner having an improved structure.

Description of Related Art

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

An air conditioner may include an air purifier to remove contaminants from the air. An air purifier may remove bacteria, viruses, mold, fine dust, and chemicals that cause bad odors from the air introduced.

An air conditioner may include a humidifier to keep a humidity in an indoor space at an appropriate level. A humidifier may vaporize water accommodated in a water container and discharge the generated vapor into an air conditioning space.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an air conditioner capable of performing both air purification and humidification functions.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an air conditioner capable of mixing filtered and purified air with vaporized and generated vapor and discharging the mixture to the outside.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an air conditioner capable of controlling a temperature of a controller without having a separate fan.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes: a main body including an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet, a blower configured to introduce air through the inlet inside the main body or to discharge air to the first outlet, and a humidifier configured to discharge vapor through the first outlet, wherein second outlet is configured to allow one portion of air flowing from the inlet toward the first outlet to be discharged therethrough, and is provided between the inlet and the first outlet based on a flowing direction of air directing to the first outlet from the inlet.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes: a first body including an inlet and a first outlet, a second body including a second outlet, a blower configured to introduce air through the inlet inside the first body, and a humidifier mounted on the second body and configured to discharge vapor through the second outlet, wherein one portion of the air introduced through the blower is configured to be discharged through the first outlet; and wherein first body includes a first body opening configured to allow another portion of the air introduced through the blower to pass therethrough; and the second body includes a second body opening provided at a position corresponding to the first body opening.

According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, an air conditioner includes: an inlet and an outlet, a humidifier configured to discharge vapor through the outlet and including a water tub configured to store water, a coil disposed in an accommodation space provided below the humidifier and configured to generate an induced current in the water tub to heat water stored in the water tub, and a controller, comprising circuitry, disposed in a separated space formed between an outer cover covering the outside of the humidifier and an inner wall of the main body and configured to control the coil, wherein the controller is disposed on a flow path through which air introduced through the inlet flows toward the outlet, and the accommodation space and the separated space are configured to communicate with each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

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

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that a humidifier, a first body, and a second body are separated according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the humidifier, the first body, and the second body are separated according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating inner flow paths of the air conditioner according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the humidifier according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the humidifier according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a top view of an upper cover according to various embodiments;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the humidifier is separated from the second body according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region A shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view illustrating that a second housing is separated from the upper cover and peripheral components according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region B shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the humidifier, the second body, and peripheral components according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a first controller according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the first controller according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region C shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that a coil and peripheral components are separated from the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the coil and the peripheral components are separated from the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

In connection with the explanation of the drawings, like reference numbers may be used for like or related components.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one item or a plurality of items, unless the relevant context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the present disclosure, each of 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 of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof.

The term “and/or” includes any combination of a plurality of related items or any one of a plurality of related items.

Terms such as “first,” “second,” “primary,” and “secondary” may simply be used to distinguish a given component from other corresponding components, and do not limit the corresponding components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order).

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

The terms “comprises” and “has” are intended to indicate that there are features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the present disclosure, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When any component is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “supported” or “in contact” with another component, this includes a case in which the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other through a third component as well as directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other.

When any component is referred to as being located “on” or “above” another component, this includes not only a case in which any component is in contact with another component but also a case in which another component is present between the two components.

Air conditioners according to various embodiments, which include apparatuses that perform functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling, and heating in an air conditioning space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor space”), refer to apparatuses equipped with 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 circulates through a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a tube expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. Components of the heat pump device may be built into a single housing forming an exterior of the air conditioner, and such an air conditioner corresponds to a window-type air conditioner or a mobile air conditioner. Some components of the heat pump device may be divided and built into a plurality of housings forming a single air conditioner, and such an air conditioner corresponds to 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. As an example, the air conditioner may be configured such that a single outdoor unit and a single indoor unit are connected through a refrigerant pipe. As an example, the air conditioner may be configured such that a single outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units through refrigerant pipes. As an example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

The outdoor unit may be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner may be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor unit and indoor unit may be operated simultaneously or sequentially in response to 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 perform heat exchange between a refrigerant and outdoor air using a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is condensing in the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may emit heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger is evaporating, the refrigerant may absorb heat from the outdoor air.

The indoor unit is installed indoors. As an example, the indoor units may be classified into a ceiling-type indoor unit, a stand-type indoor unit, a wall-mounted indoor unit, etc., depending on an arrangement method. As an example, the ceiling-type indoor units may be classified into a four-way indoor unit, a one-way indoor unit, and a duct-type indoor unit depending on a method in which air is discharged.

The indoor heat exchanger may perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air using the phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is evaporating in an indoor unit, the refrigerant may absorb heat from the indoor air, and an indoor space may be cooled by blowing the indoor air cooled through the cooled indoor heat exchanger. Also, while the refrigerant is condensing in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant may emit heat into the indoor air, and the indoor space may be heated by blowing the indoor air heated through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger.

For example, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating along the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger, and thus may include a compressor to compress the refrigerant in order to circulate the refrigerant. The compressor may intake refrigerant gas through an intake hole to compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor may discharge a high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through a discharge hole. The compressor may be disposed inside the outdoor unit.

The refrigerant may circulate sequentially along the compressor, outdoor heat exchanger, tube expansion device, and indoor heat exchanger through the refrigerant pipe, or sequentially along the compressor, indoor heat exchanger, tube expansion device, and outdoor heat exchanger through the refrigerant pipe.

As an example, in a case in which one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are directly connected through the refrigerant pipe, the air conditioner may be configured such that the refrigerant circulates between the one outdoor unit and the one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

As an example, in a case in which one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units through the refrigerant pipes, the air conditioner may be configured such that the refrigerants flow to a plurality of the indoor units through the refrigerant pipes branched from the outdoor unit. The refrigerants discharged from the plurality of indoor units may join and circulate to the outdoor unit. As an example, the plurality of indoor units may be connected directly to the one outdoor unit in parallel through the separate refrigerant pipes, respectively.

Each of the plurality of indoor units may be operated independently depending on an operation mode set by a user. That is, some of the plurality of indoor units may be operated in a cooling mode, while the others of the plurality of indoor units may be operated in a heating mode. The refrigerant may be selectively introduced into each of the indoor units in a high or low pressure state along a designated circulation route through a flow path switching valve, which will be described in greater detail below, and then may be discharged from each of the indoor units and circulate to the outdoor unit.

As an example, in a case in which two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected through the plurality of refrigerant pipes, the air conditioner may be configured such that the refrigerants discharged from the plurality of outdoor units may join and flow through one of the refrigerant pipes, and then be separated again at a certain point and be introduced into the plurality of indoor units.

The plurality of outdoor units may be driven or at least some of them may not be driven depending on an operating load according to an amount of operation of the plurality of indoor units. In this case, the air conditioner may be configured such that the refrigerant is introduced into and circulates along an outdoor unit that is selectively driven through the flow path switching valve. The air conditioner may include a tube expansion device in order to lower a pressure of the refrigerant to be introduced into a heat exchanger. As an example, the tube expansion device may be disposed inside an indoor unit or inside an outdoor unit, or may be disposed inside the both.

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

As an example, the tube expansion device may be implemented as an electronic expansion valve capable of adjusting an opening ratio (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). Depending on the opening rate of the electronic expansion valve, an amount of refrigerant passing through the tube expansion device may be controlled.

The air conditioner may further include a flow path switching valve disposed on a refrigerant circulation flow path. The flow path switching valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow path switching valve may determine a refrigerant circulation route depending on the operation mode of the indoor unit (for example, cooling operation or heating operation). The flow path switching valve may be connected to a discharge side of the compressor.

The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to an intake side of the compressor. A low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger or the outdoor heat exchanger may be introduced into the accumulator.

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

An outdoor fan may be provided adjacent to 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. As an example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be disposed at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. As an example, the outdoor unit sensors may include a temperature sensor for detecting an air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting an air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting a refrigerant pressure of the refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

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

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air to the inside or outside of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air introduced into the housing.

The housing may include an intake hole. Indoor air may be introduced into the inside of the housing through the intake hole.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter provided to filter out foreign substances in air to be introduced into the housing through the intake hole.

The housing may include a discharge hole. Air flowing inside the housing may be discharged to the outside of the housing through the discharge hole.

An airflow guide may be provided in the housing of the indoor unit to guide a direction of air to be discharged through the discharge hole. As an example, the airflow guide may include a blade located on the discharge hole. As an example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for regulating a discharge airflow. The airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

An indoor heat exchanger and a blower disposed on a flow path connecting the intake hole and the discharge hole may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit.

The blower may include an indoor fan and a fan motor. As an example, the indoor fan may include an axial fan, a diagonal flow fan, a crossflow fan, or a centrifugal fan.

The indoor heat exchanger may be disposed between the blower and the discharge hole, or between the intake hole and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air introduced through the intake hole or transfer heat to air introduced through the intake hole. The indoor heat exchanger may include a heat exchange pipe through which the refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange pipe to increase a heat transfer area.

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

The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including a button, switch, touch screen, and/or touch pad. The user may directly input setting data (for example, desired indoor temperature, settings of operation modes for cooling/heating/dehumidification/air purification, settings of discharge hole selection, and/or settings of wind volume) 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 in the indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). The user may input setting data related to an operation of the air conditioner by manipulating the wired remote controller. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. Also, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The user may remotely input the setting data related to the operations of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The setting data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

The input interface may include a microphone. A voice command of the user may be obtained through the microphone. The microphone may convert the voice command of the user into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to the indoor unit controller. The indoor unit controller may control the components of the air conditioner in order to execute a function corresponding to the voice command of the user. The setting data (for example, desired indoor temperature, settings of the operation modes for cooling/heating/dehumidification/air purification, settings of discharge hole selection, and/or settings of wind volume) obtained through the input interface may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller, which will be described in greater detail below. As an example, the setting data obtained through the input interface may be transmitted to the outside, that is, the outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication device, which will 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 in a space inside or outside the housing. As an 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. As an example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. As an example, the indoor unit sensor may include each refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting an inlet, middle, and/or outlet temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

As an example, each environmental information detected by the indoor unit sensor may be transmitted to the indoor unit controller, which will be described in greater detail below, or may be transmitted to the outside through the indoor unit communication device, which will be described in greater detail below.

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

The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited thereto, a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a ZigBee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi direct (WFD) communication module, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, microwave (U-wave) communication module, and the like.

The long-distance wireless communication module may include a communication module performing various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device transmits and receives wireless signals to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

The indoor unit communication device may communicate with external devices such as a server, a mobile device, and another home appliance through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or a user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or the user device may be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include the indoor unit controller to control the components of the indoor unit, including the blower. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include the outdoor unit controller to control components in the outdoor unit, including the compressor. The indoor unit controller may communicate with the outdoor unit controller through the indoor unit communication device and the outdoor unit communication device. The outdoor unit communication device may transmit a control signal generated by the outdoor unit controller to the indoor unit communication device, or may transmit a control signal transmitted from the indoor unit communication device to the outdoor unit controller. That is, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit may perform two-way communication. The outdoor and indoor units may transmit and receive various signals generated while the air conditioner is operating.

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

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

The indoor unit controller may obtain an input (e.g., a user input) from the user device, including the mobile device, through the indoor unit communication device, and may obtain user input directly through the input interface or through the remote controller. The indoor unit controller may control the components of the indoor unit, including the blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit controller may transmit information about the received user input to the outdoor unit controller of the outdoor unit.

The outdoor unit controller may control the components in the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on the information about the user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to user input for selecting an operation mode such as cooling operation, heating operation, blowing operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit controller may control the components in the outdoor unit so that the operation of the air conditioner corresponding to the selected operation mode is performed.

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

The memory may remember/store a variety of information necessary for the operations of the air conditioner. The memory may store instructions, applications, data and/or programs necessary for the operations of the air conditioner. For example, the memory may store various programs for a cooling operation, heating operation, dehumidification operation, and/or defrosting operation of the air conditioner. The memory may include a volatile memory such as a static random access memory (S-RAM) and a dynamic random access memory (D-RAM) for temporarily remembering data. Also, 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 control signals for controlling the operations of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in memory. The processor, which is hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor may process data according to programs and/or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals depending on the processed results. The memory and 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 may output information related to the operations of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit controller. For example, information such as an operation mode, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature selected by user input may be output. The output interface may also output sensing information and warning/error messages obtained from the indoor unit sensor or the outdoor unit sensor.

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

The terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” and “lower” used in the description below are defined based on the drawings, but the shape and position of each component are not limited by the above terms. For example, based on the drawings, a front side may be defined as a +X side, and a rear side may be defined as a −X side. For example, based on the drawings, a left side may be defined as a +Y side, and a right side may be defined as a −Y side. For example, based on the drawings, an upper side may be defined as a +Z side, and a lower side may be defined as a −Z side.

Hereinafter, an air conditioner according to various example embodiments will be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, an air purifier is described as an example of an air conditioner, but the present disclosure is not limited to an air purifier, and may be applied to various home appliances including an indoor unit of an air conditioner including a heat exchanger.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air conditioner according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an air conditioner 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the air conditioner 1. For example, the main body 10 may be provided in a substantially box shape.

The main body 10 may include a frame body 11 and a blowing panel 12 provided on the outside of the frame body 11. The frame body 11 may support various components of the air conditioner 1. The frame body 11 may be configured to accommodate various components of the air conditioner 1. The frame body 11 may be provided such that at least a portion thereof is covered by the blowing panel 12.

The blowing panel 12 may be detachably mounted on the frame body 11. For example, the blowing panel 12 may include a first blowing panel forming a front surface of the air conditioner 1, a second blowing panel forming a rear surface of the air conditioner 1, a third blowing panel forming a right surface of the air conditioner 1, and a fourth blowing panel forming a left surface of the air conditioner 1. The first blowing panel may be referred to as a front panel. The second blowing panel may be referred to as a rear panel. The third blowing panel may be referred to as a right panel. The fourth blowing panel may be referred to as a left panel.

The first blowing panel, the second blowing panel, the third blowing panel, and the fourth blowing panel may be provided as separate components. However, at least some blowing panels among the first blowing panel, the second blowing panel, the third blowing panel, and the fourth blowing panel may be formed integrally. At least some blowing panels among the first blowing panel, the second blowing panel, the third blowing panel, and the fourth blowing panel may be separable from the frame body 11.

The blowing panel 12 may include a panel part 12a. The panel part 12a may include a plurality of ribs. The plurality of ribs may extend in a first direction D1. For example, the plurality of ribs may extend in upward and downward directions. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

The panel part 12a may be formed over the entire region of the blowing panel 12. For example, the panel part 12a may be provided in a uniform pattern over the entire region of the blowing panel 12. Accordingly, the freedom of design of the blowing panel 12 may increase, thereby improving aesthetics.

The main body 10 may include a blowing hole 13. The blowing hole 13 may be provided in the blowing panel 12. The blowing hole 13 may extend in the upward and downward directions.

The blowing hole 13 may be provided in plurality. For example, the plurality of blowing holes 13 may be arranged in the upward and downward directions (Z direction) and perpendicular directions. For example, the plurality of blowing holes 13 may be arranged along left and right directions (Y direction) or along forward and rearward directions (X direction). However, there is no special limitation on the number of the plurality of blowing holes 13.

The blowing hole 13 may be formed corresponding to the panel part 12a. For example, the blowing hole 13 may be an opening formed between the plurality of ribs of the panel part 12a. Air outside the main body 10 may be introduced into the main body 10 through the blowing hole 13, or may be discharged from the main body 10. The blowing hole 13 may include a plurality of openings.

The main body 10 may include an air inlet 14 and an air outlet 15. The air inlet 14 may be provided to allow air outside the air conditioner 1 to be introduced into the inside of the air conditioner 1. The air outlet 15 may be provided to allow air inside the air conditioner 1 to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1.

The air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may be provided on the frame body 11. The air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may be arranged in the first direction D1. For example, the air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may be arranged in the upward and downward directions. For example, the air inlet 14 may be provided below the air outlet 15, and the air outlet 15 may be provided above the air inlet 14. For example, the air outlet 15 may be provided in a central portion of the main body 10, and the air inlet 14 may be provided in a lower portion of the main body 10.

The air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may each be provided in plurality. For example, the plurality of air inlets 14 may include air inlets provided at a front surface, rear surface, right surface, and left surface of the frame body 11, respectively, and the plurality of air outlets 15 may include air outlets provided at a front surface, rear surface, right surface, and left surface of the frame body 11, respectively. However, there is no special limitation on the numbers of the plurality of air inlets 14 and plurality of air outlets 15.

The air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may be provided at positions corresponding to the blowing hole 13, respectively. Through this configuration, the air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 may each communicate with the outside of the main body 10.

For example, the first blowing panel, the second blowing panel, the third blowing panel, and the fourth blowing panel may each include the two blowing holes 13. The two blowing holes 13 may include first blowing holes 13a provided at positions corresponding to the air inlets 14, and second blowing holes 13b provided at positions corresponding to the air outlets 15. For example, the first blowing holes 13a may be provided below the second blowing holes 13b, and the second blowing holes 13b may be provided above the first blowing holes 13a.

Due to the configuration described above, air outside the air conditioner 1 may flow into the air conditioner 1 in four directions through the first blowing holes 13a and the air inlets 14. Air outside the air conditioner 1 may flow into the inside of the air conditioner 1 from all directions through the first blowing holes 13a and the air inlets 14.

Air inside the air conditioner 1 may flow from the air conditioner 1 toward the outside of the air conditioner 1 in four directions through the second blowing holes 13b and the air outlets 15. For example, air inside the air conditioner 1 may flow in all directions to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second blowing holes 13b and the air outlets 15.

According to the present disclosure, because the air conditioner 1 is configured to introduce and/or discharge air in all directions, air inside the air conditioner 1 may be smoothly circulated. Therefore, air conditioner 1 may achieve high dust collection efficiency.

The main body 10 may include an upper frame 16. The upper frame 16 may be provided at an upper end of the main body 10. The upper frame 16 may be disposed on an upper side of the frame body 11.

A user interface may be provided on the upper frame 16. For example, the user interface may include an operation panel. The user interface may include various circuitry and receive user input or output operating information of the air conditioner 1 to a user.

The air conditioner 1 may include a blower 20. The blower 20 may generate a blowing force. The blower 20 may move air. The blower 20 may force air to flow. The blower 20 may rotate to generate an airflow that flows inside the main body 10.

The blower 20 may introduce air into the inside of the air conditioner 1 through the first blowing holes 13a and the air inlets 14. The blower 20 may discharge air to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second blowing holes 13b and the air outlets 15. Additionally, the blower 20 may discharge air to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through a humid air outlet 17, which will be described in greater detail below.

The blower 20 may move air in the first direction D1. For example, the blower 20 may move air upward.

The first direction D1 may be a blowing direction of the blower 20. Also, the first direction D1 may be a flowing direction of air flowing by the blower 20. Also, the first direction D1 may be a flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14. The first direction D1 may be a flowing direction of air directing to the humid air outlet 17 from the air inlet 14, which will be described in greater detail below. For example, the first direction D1 may be an upward direction.

The blower 20 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The blower 20 may be positioned downstream of the air inlet 14 based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14. The blower 20 may be positioned upstream of the air outlet 15 based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14. For example, the blower 20 may be disposed between the air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15.

The air conditioner 1 may include an air guide 30. The air guide 30 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The air guide 30 may be disposed upstream of the blower 20 based on based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14. For example, the air guide 30 may be disposed on a lower side of the blower 20. The air guide 30 may guide air flowing into the main body 10 through the first blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14 to the blower 20 side.

The air conditioner 1 may include a blower cover 40. The blower cover 40 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The blower cover 40 may accommodate the blower 20. The blower cover 40 may communicate with the air guide 30.

The blower cover 40 may guide air passed through the blower 20 in the first direction D1. For example, the blower cover 40 may guide the air passed through the blower 20 upwards.

The air conditioner 1 may include a dust collector 50. The dust collector 50 may be configured to filter air. The dust collector 50 may capture aerosols in the air.

The dust collector 50 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The dust collector 50 may be disposed between the air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 so that air introduced through the first blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14 may pass therethrough. For example, the dust collector 50 may be disposed below the blower 20. Through this configuration, the dust collector 50 may filter air introduced into the main body 10 through the first blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14. The air filtered by the dust collector 50 may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second blowing hole 13b and the air outlet 15.

The air conditioner 1 may include a deodorizer 60. The deodorizer 60 may be configured to deodorize air. The deodorizer 60 may be configured to remove odorous substances from air. The deodorizer 60 may be configured to sterilize air. For example, the deodorizer 60 may sterilize air by decomposing organic substances in the air. While air flowing inside the main body 10 passes through the deodorizer 60, odors may be removed from the air.

The deodorizer 60 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The deodorizer 60 may be disposed between the air inlet 14 and the air outlet 15 so that air introduced through the blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14 may pass therethrough. For example, the deodorizer 60 may be disposed between the dust collector 50 and the blower 20. Through this configuration, the deodorizer 60 may deodorize air introduced into the main body 10 through the first blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14. The air deodorized by the deodorizer 60 may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second blowing hole 13b and the air outlet 15.

Based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14, the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20 may be arranged sequentially. For example, air introduced into the inside of the main body 10 through the first blowing hole 13a and the air inlet 14 may sequentially pass through the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20, and then be discharged to the outside of the main body 10 through the second blowing hole 13b and the air outlet 15.

However, the arrangement relationship of the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20 is not limited thereto. For example, based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14, the deodorizer 60, the dust collector 50, and the blower 20 may be arranged sequentially. Based on the flowing direction of air directing to the air outlet 15 from the air inlet 14, the deodorizer 60, the blower 20, and the dust collector 50 may be arranged sequentially. For example, there is no special limitation on the arrangement relationship of the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20.

The dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, the blower 20, and components related to these components may be omitted. For example, any one of the dust collector 50 and the deodorizer 60 may be omitted.

The air conditioner 1 may include a humidifier 100. The humidifier 100 may be configured to vaporize water to generate vapor and discharge the vapor. The humidifier 100 may discharge vapor to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the humid air outlet 17, which will be described in greater detail below.

At least a portion of the humidifier 100 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The humidifier 100 may be disposed downstream of the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20 based on the flowing direction of air directing to the humid air outlet 17 from the air inlet 14, which will be described in greater detail below. For example, the humidifier 100 may be disposed above the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60, and the blower 20. In other words, the humidifier 100 may be disposed in an upper portion of the main body 10.

According to the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 may perform an air purification function by discharging air purified through the dust collector 50 and the deodorizer 60. The air conditioner 1 may perform a humidification function by generating and discharging vapor through the humidifier 100. That is, the air conditioner 1 may perform the air purification function and the humidification function simultaneously.

The main body 10 may include the humid air outlet 17. The humid air outlet 17 may be provided to allow air inside the air conditioner 1 to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1. The humidifier outlet 17 may be provided to allow vapor generated in the humidifier 100 to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1. The humidifier outlet 17 may be provided to allow humid air formed by mixing air flowing inside the main body 10 and vapor generated in the humidifier 100 to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

The humid air outlet 17 may be formed on one surface of the main body 10. For example, the humid air outlet 17 may be formed on an upper surface of the main body 10. The humid air outlet 17 may be provided on an inner side of the upper frame 16.

The humid air outlet 17, the air outlet 15, and the air inlet 14 may be arranged in the first direction D1. For example, the humid air outlet 17, the air outlet 15, and the air inlet 14 may be arranged in the upward and downward directions. For example, the air outlet 15 may be provided above the air inlet 14, and the humid air outlet 17 may be provided above the air outlet 15.

According to the present disclosure, the air outlet 15 may be provided between the air inlet 14 and the humid air outlet 17 with respect to the first direction D1. Due to this configuration, the air outlet 15 may be provided to allow one portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 to be discharged therethrough. The humid air outlet 17 may be provided to allow the other portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 to be discharged therethrough, or to allow all of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 to be discharged therethrough. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that a humidifier, a first body, and a second body are separated according to various embodiments. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the humidifier, the first body, and the second body are separated according to various embodiments. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating various example inner flow paths of the air conditioner according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, at least a portion of the humidifier 100 may be disposed inside the main body 10. In other words, at least a portion of the humidifier 100 may be accommodated inside the main body 10. The humidifier 100 may be mounted in the main body 10.

The main body 10 may form a first accommodation space 10a to accommodate the humidifier 100. The first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on one surface of the main body 10. For example, the first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on the upper surface of the main body 10.

The first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on one surface of the main body 10, in which the humid air outlet 17 is provided. In this case, the humid air outlet 17 may be referred to as an inlet of the first accommodation space 10a. In other words, the humid air outlet 17 may be provided on one side of the first accommodation space 10a. For example, the humid air outlet 17 may be provided on an upper side of the first accommodation space 10a.

The first accommodation space 10a may be formed in the frame body 11 of the main body 10. That is, the first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on one surface of the frame body 11. For example, the first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on an upper surface of the frame body 11.

The frame body 11 may include a first body 200 and a second body 300. The first body 200 and the second body 300 may be arranged in the first direction D1. For example, the first body 200 and the second body 300 may be arranged in the upward and downward directions. For example, the first body 200 may be disposed below the second body 300, and the second body 300 may be disposed above the first body 200. The first body 200 and the second body 300 may be connected to each other. In other words, the first body 200 and the second body 300 may be coupled to each other.

Components for the air purification function may be disposed inside the first body 200. For example, the blower 20, the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60 and components related to these components may be disposed inside the first body 200.

The air inlet 14 may be provided in the first body 200. For example, the air inlet 14 may be provided at a lower end of the first body 200.

An inflow space 201 may be formed in the first body 200. The inflow space 201 may refer to a hollow space formed between the first body 200 and the second body 300. Air blown by the blower 20 may be introduced into the inflow space 201. For example, the inflow space 201 may be provided at an end of the first body 200.

The air outlet 15 may be provided in the first body 200. For example, the air outlet 15 may be provided at an upper end of the first body 200.

For example, the air outlet 15 may be provided on one side of the inflow space 201. For example, the air outlet 15 may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of air outlets 15 may include air outlets provided on front, rear, right, and left sides of the inflow space 201, respectively. The inflow space 201 and an outer space of the air conditioner 1 may be communicated through the air outlet 15.

However, the position where the inflow space 201 is formed or the position of the air outlet 15 is not limited thereto. For example, the inflow space 201 and the air outlet 15 may each be provided at a lower end of the second body 300.

The first body 200 may include a first body opening 210. The first body opening 210 may be provided to allow air to pass therethrough. The first body opening 210 may be provided to allow air inside the first body 200 to be discharged to the outside of the first body 200.

The first body opening 210 may be provided at the upper end of the first body 200. Specifically, the first body opening 210 may be provided at an upper side of the inflow space 201. For example, the first body opening 210 may be opened in the upward and downward directions.

The first body opening 210 may be provided in plurality. The plurality of first body openings 210 may include first body openings provided on front, rear, right, and left sides of the upper end of the first body 200, respectively.

The first accommodation space 10a may be provided in the second body 300. That is, at least a portion of the humidifier 100 may be disposed inside the second body 300. In other words, at least a portion of the humidifier 100 may be accommodated inside the second body 300. The humidifier 100 may be mounted in the second body 300.

The first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on one surface of the second body 300. For example, the first accommodation space 10a may be recessed on an upper surface of the second body 300.

The humid air outlet 17 may be provided in the second body 300. The humid air outlet 17 may be provided on one surface of the second body 300. For example, the humid air outlet 17 may be provided on the upper surface of the second body 300.

The second body 300 may include a second body opening 310. The second body opening 310 may be provided to allow air to pass therethrough. The second body opening 310 may be provided to allow air inside the second body 300 to be introduced to the inside of the second body 300.

The second body opening 310 may be provided at the lower end of the second body 300. For example, the second body opening 310 may be provided on the upper side of the inflow space 201. For example, the second body opening 310 may be opened in the upward and downward directions.

The second body opening 310 may be provided at a position corresponding to the first body opening 210. For example, the second body opening 310 and the first body opening 210 may be connected to each other.

The second body opening 310 may be provided in plurality. The plurality of second body openings 310 may include second body openings provided on front, rear, right, and left sides of the lower end of the second body 300, respectively.

Through the first body opening 210 and the second body opening 310, the inflow space 201 and an inner space of the second body 300 may be communicated with each other. Through the first body opening 210 and the second body opening 310, the inflow space 201 and the humid air outlet 17 may be communicated with each other. Due to this configuration, a flow path may be formed that extends to the humid air outlet 17 through the inflow space 201 from the air inlet 14. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below. Hereinafter, the first body opening 210 and the second body opening 310 may be referred to as the body openings 210 and 310.

According to the present disclosure, the air outlet 15 may be provided on the front side, rear side, right side or left side of the inflow space 201, and the body openings 210 and 310 may be provided on the upper side of the inflow space 201. Therefore, one portion of the air being blown by the blower 20 may pass through the air outlet 15 and be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1, and the other portion may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be introduced into the inside of the second body 300. In other words, one portion of the air being introduced into the main body 10 through the air inlet 14 may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and then be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the humid air outlet 17.

Hereinafter, an inner flow path structure of the air conditioner 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

The blower 20 may introduce air into the first body 200 through the air inlet 14. The blower 20 may also flow the air introduced into the first body 200 in the first direction D1.

For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 upward. For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 toward the second body 300. For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 toward the inflow space 201. For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 toward the body openings 210 and 310. For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 toward the air outlet 15. For example, the blower 20 may flow the air introduced into the first body 200 toward the humid air outlet 17.

The blower 20 may form a first flow path P1 by introducing air into the first body 200 through the air inlet 14 and flowing the introduced air to the first direction D1. The first flow path P1 may pass through the air inlet 14 from the outside of the main body 10 and extend to the inflow space 201.

One portion of the air being introduced into the air inlet 14 through the blower 20 may be discharged through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be discharged through the humid air outlet 17. In other words, one portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the second body 300 may be discharged through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be discharged through the humid air outlet 17. In other words, one portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be discharged through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be discharged through the humid air outlet 17.

The blower 20 may form a second flow path P2 by discharging one portion of the air introduced into the air inlet 14 to the outside of the main body 10 through the air outlet 15. The second flow path P2 may pass through the air outlet 15 from the inflow space 201 and extend toward the outside of the main body 10.

The blower 20 may form a third flow path P3 by introducing the other portion of the air introduced into the air inlet 14 into the second body 300 through the body openings 210 and 310 and discharging the other air to the outside of the main body 10 through the humid air outlet 17. The third flow path P3 may sequentially pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and the humid air outlet 17 from the inflow space 201 and extend toward the outside of the main body 10.

According to the present disclosure, as the first flow path P1, the second flow path P2, and the third flow path P3 are formed inside the air conditioner 1, one portion of the air being introduced through the air inlet 14 may be discharged through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may be discharged through the humid air outlet 17. However, the air discharge method of the air conditioner 1 is not limited thereto. For example, all of the air introduced through the air inlet 14 may be discharged only through the air outlet 15. Air introduced through the air inlet 14 may be discharged only through the humid air outlet 17.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the humidifier according to various embodiments. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the humidifier according to various embodiments. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a top view of an upper cover according to various embodiments. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the humidifier is separated from the second body according to various embodiments. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 10, the humidifier 100 may include a water tub 110. The water tub 110 may be provided to store water. An upper side of the water tub 110 may be open. For example, the water tub 110 may be provided in a substantially cylindrical shape. However, there is no special limitation on the shape of the water tub 110.

The humidifier 100 may include a partition member 120. The partition member 120 may be disposed inside the water tub 110. The partition member 120 may partition an inner space of the water tub 110. For example, the inner space of the water tub 110 may be partitioned into a vapor generation region R1 and a storage region R2 by the partition member 120. Water stored in the storage region R2 may be introduced into the vapor generation region R1, and vapor may be generated in v the vapor generation region R1 by a coil 400, which will be described in greater detail below. The vapor generation region R1 may be provided inside the storage region R2.

The humidifier 100 may include a guide member 130. The guide member 130 may be provided to guide vapor generated inside the water tub 110. Specifically, the guide member 130 may be configured to guide vapor generated in the vapor generation region R1. The guide member 130 may guide vapor generated inside the water tub 110 to the outside of the guide member 130.

The guide member 130 may include a vapor discharge hole 130a. The vapor discharge hole 130a may be provided to allow vapor guided by the guide member 130 to be discharged to the outside of the guide member 130. The vapor discharge hole 130a may be provided at an edge of the guide member 130.

The vapor discharge hole 130a may be formed by a first guide part 131 and a second guide part 132, which will be described in greater detail below.

The vapor discharge hole 130a may be provided in plurality. The plurality of vapor discharge holes 130a may be arranged along the edge of the guide member 130. The plurality of vapor discharge holes 130a may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

The guide member 130 may be disposed on the upper side of the water tub 110. For example, the guide member 130 may be disposed between the water tub 110 and an upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below.

The guide member 130 may include the first guide part 131. The first guide part 131 may be disposed on the upper side of the water tub 110. The first guide part 131 may be disposed on an upper side of the partition member 120.

The first guide part 131 may cover the open upper side of the water tub 110. Through this configuration, the first guide part 131 may partition the inner space of the water tub 110 and an outer space of the water tub 110. The vapor generation region R1 and the storage region R2 may be provided in the inner space of the water tub 110.

The first guide part 131 may include a flow hole 131a. The flow hole 131a may be open in the upward and downward directions. The flow hole 131a may communicate the inner space of the water tub 110 and the outer space of the water tub 110. Through this configuration, vapor generated in the inner space of the water tub 110 may flow to the outer space of the water tub 110 through the flow hole 131a.

The flow hole 131a may be provided on an upper side of the vapor generation region R1. For example, the flow hole 131a may be provided at a substantially central portion of the first guide part 131. The flow hole 131a may communicate the vapor generation region R1 and the outer space of the water tub 110.

The first guide part 131 may include a first water supply portion 131b and a first water supply hole 131c. The first water supply portion 131b may extend in the upward and downward directions. The first water supply hole 131c may be provided by being open on an inner side of the first water supply portion 131b. The first water supply hole 131c may be open in the upward and downward directions.

The first water supply hole 131c may communicate the inner space of the water tub 110 and the outer space of the water tub 110. Water may flow from the outer space of the water tub 110 to the inner space of the water tub 110 through the first water supply hole 131c.

The first water supply hole 131c may be provided on an upper side of the storage region R2. The first water supply hole 131c may communicate the storage region R2 and the outer space of the water tub 110. Due to this configuration, water may flow from the outer space of the water tub 110 to the storage region R2 of the water tub 110.

The first water supply hole 131c may be provided in plurality. For example, the plurality of first water supply holes 131c may be arranged to surround the flow hole 131a in a state of being spaced apart from the flow hole 131a.

The guide member 130 may include the second guide part 132. The second guide part 132 may be disposed on the upper side of the water tub 110. Specifically, the second guide part 132 may be disposed above the first guide part 131.

The second guide part 132 and the first guide part 131 may be spaced apart from each other. Vapor and/or air may flow in a space between the second guide part 132 and the first guide part 131. That is, the second guide part 132 may form a flow path together with the first guide part 131. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

The second guide part 132 may include a second water supply portion 132a and a second water supply hole 132b. The second water supply portion 132a may extend in the upward and downward directions. The second water supply hole 132b may be provided by being open on an inner side of the second water supply portion 132a. The second water supply hole 132b may be open in the upward and downward directions.

The second water supply hole 132b may communicate the inner space of the water tub 110 and the outer space of the water tub 110. The second water supply hole 132b may be connected to the first water supply hole 131c. Due to this configuration, water may flow from the outer space of the water tub 110 to the inner space of the water tub 110 through the first water supply hole 131c and the second water supply hole 132b. For example, water supplied to the humidifier 100 from the outside of the humidifier 100 may flow onto an upper surface of the second guide part 132 and then flow into the inner space of the water tub 110 through the first water supply hole 131c and the second water supply hole 132b.

The second water supply hole 132b may be provided on the upper side of the storage region R2. The second water supply hole 132b may communicate the storage region R2 and the outer space of the water tub 110. Due to this configuration, water may flow from the outer space of the water tub 110 into the storage region R2 of the water tub 110.

The second water supply hole 132b may be provided in plurality. Each of the plurality of second water supply holes 132b may be provided to correspond to each of the plurality of first water supply holes 131c. For example, the plurality of second water supply holes 132b may be arranged to surround the flow hole 131a in a state in being spaced apart from the flow hole 131a.

The second guide part 132 may include a vapor discharge groove 132c. The vapor discharge groove 132c may be provided at an edge of the second guide part 132. The edge of the second guide part 132 may be in contact with an edge of the first guide part 131, and the vapor discharge groove 132c may form the vapor discharge hole 130a together with the edge of the first guide part 131.

The vapor discharge groove 132c may be provided in plurality. The plurality of vapor discharge grooves 132c may be arranged along the edge of the second guide part 132. The plurality of vapor discharge grooves 132c may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

The guide member 130 may include a first sealing member 133. The first sealing member 133 may seal between the first water supply portion 131b and the second water supply portion 132a. Through this configuration, the first sealing member 133 may prevent and/or reduce a portion of water flowing from the outer space of the water tub 110 to the inner space of the water tub 110 from being introduced between the first guide part 131 and the second guide part 132. The first sealing member 133 may be provided in plurality.

The humidifier 100 may include a valve 140. The valve 140 may be mounted on an upper end of the partition member 120. The valve 140 may be mounted on a lower surface of the first guide part 131. That is, the valve 140 may be disposed between the partition member 120 and the first guide part 131.

The valve 140 may communicate the flow hole 131a of the first guide part 131 and the vapor generation region R1 of the water tub 110. Through this configuration, vapor generated in the vapor generation region R1 may pass through the inside of the valve 140 and flow into the outer space of the water tub 110.

The humidifier 100 may include a water tub housing 150. The water tub housing 150 may accommodate the water tub 110. That is, the water tub 110 may be disposed inside the water tub housing 150.

The water tub housing 150 may surround an outer wall 110a and a bottom 110b of the water tub 110. In other words, the water tub housing 150 may cover the outer wall 110a and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110. The water tub housing 150 may surround an outer surface of the guide member 130. In other words, the water tub housing 150 may cover the outer surface of the guide member 130.

The water tub housing 150 may include a first housing 151. The first housing 151 may accommodate the water tub 110. For example, a water tub 110 may be disposed inside the first housing 151.

The first housing 151 may have a shape corresponding to the water tub 110. For example, the first housing 151 may be provided in a substantially cylindrical shape.

The first housing 151 may include a first side wall portion 151a. The first side wall portion 151a may surround the outer wall 110a of the water tub 110. In other words, the first side wall portion 151a may cover the outer side wall 110a of the water tub 110. The first side wall portion 151a may extend in the upward and downward directions. The first side wall portion 151a may form an outer wall of the humidifier 100 together with a second side wall portion 152a, which will be described in greater detail below.

The first housing 151 may include a bottom portion 151b. The bottom portion 151b may cover the bottom 110b of the water tub 110.

The first side wall portion 151a and the bottom portion 151b may be connected to each other. For example, the first side wall portion 151a may extend upward from an edge of the bottom portion 151b.

The water tub housing 150 may include a second housing 152. The second housing 152 may be coupled with the first housing 151. The second housing 152 may be provided on an upper side of the first housing 151, and the first housing 151 may be provided on a lower side of the second housing 152.

The second housing 152 may include the second side wall portion 152a. The second side wall portion 152a may surround the outer surface of the guide member 130. In other words, the second side wall portion 152a may cover the outer surface of the guide member 130.

The second side wall portion 152a may extend in the upward and downward directions. For example, the second side wall portion 152a may extend from an upper end of the first side wall portion 151a to a position where the vapor discharge hole 130a of the guide member 130 is provided.

The second housing 152 may include a first inclined portion 152b. The first inclined portion 152b may be bent in an outward direction from the second side wall portion 152a and extend to be inclined upward. In other words, the first inclined portion 152b may be bent from the second side wall portion 152a and extend to be inclined upward toward a vapor discharge port 163, which will be described in greater detail below.

For example, the first inclined portion 152b may be bent from an upper end of the second side wall portion 152a and may extend to a second guide wall 164b of the upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below. In other words, the first inclined portion 152b may extend from the position where the vapor discharge hole 130a of the guide member 130 is provided to the second guide wall 164b of the upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below.

The first inclined portion 152b may be provided along the edge of guide member 130. For example, the first inclined portion 152b may be provided along the edge of the first guide part 131.

The second housing 152 may include an air discharge hole 152c. The air discharge hole 152c may be provided to allow air to pass therethrough. The air discharge hole 152c may be provided on the first inclined portion 152b. Through this configuration, at least a portion of the air flowing toward the humid air outlet 17 may pass through the air discharge hole 152c and then be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the vapor discharge port 163.

The air discharge hole 152c may be provided in plurality. The plurality of air discharge holes 152c may be arranged along the edge of the guide member 130. The plurality of air discharge holes 152c may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

The second housing 152 may include a protruding rib 152d. The protruding rib 152d may be provided along an edge of the air discharge hole 152c. The protruding rib 152d may protrude from an upper surface of the first inclined portion 152b.

The protruding rib 152d may be provided in plurality. Each of the plurality of protruding ribs 152d may correspond to each of the plurality of air discharge holes 152c.

A detailed description of the protruding rib 152d will be provided in greater detail below.

The second housing 152 may include a third side wall portion 152e. The third side wall portion 152e may extend in the upward and downward directions. The third side wall portion 152e may be spaced apart from the second side wall portion 152a. The third side wall portion 152e may be provided on an inner side of the upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below.

The second housing 152 may include a connection portion 152f. The connection portion 152f may connect the second side wall portion 152a and the third side wall portion 152e.

The second housing 152 may include a second inclined portion 152g. The first inclined portion 152b may be bent in an outward direction from the third side wall portion 152e and extend to be inclined upward. In other words, the second inclined portion 152g may be bent from the third side wall portion 152e and extend to be inclined upward toward the vapor discharge port 163, which will be described in greater detail below.

For example, the second inclined portion 152g may be bent from a lower end of the third side wall portion 152e and extend to the second guide wall 164b of the upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below. In other words, the second inclined portion 152g may extend from the position where the vapor discharge hole 130a of the guide member 130 is provided to the second guide wall 164b of the upper cover 160, which will be described in greater detail below.

The first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g may be spaced apart from each other. Vapor and/or air may flow in a space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g. That is, the first inclined portion 152b may form a flow path together with the second inclined portion 152g. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

The second housing 152 may include a sealing member mounting portion 152h. The sealing member mounting portion 152h may be provided to allow a second sealing member 153 to be mounted, which will be described in greater detail below. The sealing member mounting portion 152h may protrude inwardly from the second side wall portion 152a. For example, the sealing member mounting portion 152h may protrude from a lower end of the second side wall portion 152a toward a gap between the edge of an upper end of the water tub 110 and the edge of the first guide part 131. Through this configuration, at least a portion of the sealing member mounting portion 152h may be provided in the inner space of the water tub 110.

The water tub housing 150 may include the second sealing member 153. The second sealing member 153 may be mounted to the sealing member mounting portion 152h. The second sealing member 153 may seal a gap between an edge of the upper end of the water tub 110 and the edge of the first guide part 131.

The humidifier 100 may include the upper cover 160. The upper cover 160 may cover an upper side of the guide member 130. The upper cover 160 may cover an upper side of the water tub housing 150. For example, the upper cover 160 may cover an upper side of the second housing 152. The upper cover 160 may be installed on the inside of the humid air outlet 17.

The upper cover 160 may include a handle portion 161. The handle portion 161 may be provided to be gripped by a user.

The upper cover 160 may include a cover opening 162. The cover opening 162 may be formed on an inner side of the upper cover 160. Water supplying to the humidifier 100 from the outside of the humidifier 100 may be introduced into the humidifier 100 through the cover opening 162. For example, the user may supply water to the humidifier 100 by pouring water into the cover opening 162.

The upper cover 160 may include the vapor discharge port 163. The vapor discharge port 163 may be provided to allow vapor generated in the humidifier 100 to be discharged therethrough. In other words, the vapor discharge port 163 may be provided to allow vapor generated inside the water tub 110 to be discharged therethrough. In other words, the vapor discharge port 163 may be provided to allow vapor passed through a vapor discharge flow path P4, which will be described in greater detail below, to be discharged therethrough.

The vapor discharge port 163 may be provided at a position corresponding to the air outlet 15. At least a portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the air outlet 15 may be discharged to the outside of the main body 10 through the vapor discharge port 163. In this case, because the vapor discharge port 163 may be provided at a position corresponding to the air outlet 15, the discharging of air through the vapor discharge port 163 may refer, for example, to discharging air through the air outlet 15.

The vapor discharge port 163 may be provided at an edge of the upper cover 160. The vapor discharge port 163 may be open in the upward and downward directions.

The vapor discharge port 163 may be provided in plurality. The plurality of vapor discharge ports 163 may be arranged along the edge of the upper cover 160. The plurality of vapor discharge ports 163 may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

The air conditioner 1 may include discharge guides 164 and 18. The discharge guides 164 and 18 may be provided an upper side of the vapor discharge port 163. The discharge guides 164 and 18 may be provided to guide vapor and/or air discharged from the vapor discharge port 163. The discharge guides 164 and 18 may form a flow path through which vapor and/or air discharged from the vapor discharge port 163 passes. The discharge guides 164 and 18 may include the first discharge guide 164 and the second discharge guide 18.

The first discharge guide 164 may be provided on the upper cover 160. That is, the upper cover 160 may include the first discharge guide 164.

The first discharge guide 164 may be provided at a position corresponding to the vapor discharge port 163. For example, the first discharge guide 164 may be formed to extend from a position where the vapor discharge port 163 is provided.

The first discharge guide 164 may extend in the first direction D1. According to this configuration, the first discharge guide 164 may form a flow path extending in the first direction D1. For example, the first discharge guide 164 may extend upward from the position where the vapor discharge port 163 is provided and may form a flow path extending upward from the vapor discharge port 163.

The first discharge guide 164 may include a first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b. The first guide wall 164a may be provided further outward than the second guide wall 164b. The first guide wall 164a may form an outer circumferential surface of the upper cover 160. Each of the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b may extend in the first direction D1.

The first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b may be spaced apart from each other. Vapor and/or air may flow in a space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b. For example, the first guide wall 164a may form a flow path together with the second guide wall 164b. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

The second discharge guide 18 may be provided in the main body 10. For example, the main body 10 may include the second discharge guide 18.

The second discharge guide 18 may be provided to guide vapor and/or air discharged from the vapor discharge port 163. The second discharge guide 18 may be provided to guide vapor and/or air discharged from the humid air outlet 17. The second discharge guide 18 may be provided to guide vapor and/or air discharged from the first discharge guide 164.

The second discharge guide 18 may be provided along an edge of the humid air outlet 17. The second discharge guide 18 may extend in the first direction D1 from the edge of the humid air outlet 17. For example, the second discharge guide 18 may extend upward from the edge of the humid air outlet 17.

The humidifier 100 may include a water distribution part 170. The water distribution part 170 may be disposed above the second guide part 132. The water distribution part 170 may be disposed below the upper cover 160. That is, the water distribution part 170 may be disposed between the second guide part 132 and the upper cover 160.

The water distribution part 170 may be disposed below the cover opening 162.

Due to this configuration, water flowing into the humidifier 100 through the cover opening 162 may flow onto the water distribution part 170 and spread over an upper surface of the cover opening 162.

The water distribution part 170 may be configured such that a central portion thereof has the highest height and an edge portion thereof has the lowest height. For example, the water distribution part 170 may be provided in the shape of a convex disc. Through this configuration, the water distribution part 170 may guide water flowing onto the water distribution part 170 in a radial direction of the water distribution part 170. Due to the shape of the water distribution part 170 described above, water guided by the water distribution part 170 may be substantially uniformly spread onto the upper surface of the second guide part 132.

The humidifier 100 may include a cap cover 180. The cap cover 180 may be disposed on the upper side of the upper cover 160. The cap cover 180 may prevent/block various components included in the humidifier 100 from being exposed to the outside.

The main body 10 may include an outer cover 70. The outer cover 70 may cover the outside of the humidifier 100. For example, the outer cover 70 may cover an outer wall and a bottom of the humidifier 100.

The outer cover 70 may be disposed inside the main body 10. Specifically, the outer cover 70 may be disposed inside the second body 300. For example, the second body 300 may include the outer cover 70.

The outer cover 70 may form the first accommodation space 10a. For example, the humidifier 100 may be accommodated inside the outer cover 70. A hollow portion may be formed between the outer cover 70 and the humidifier 100. In other words, a hollow portion may be formed between the outer cover 70 and the side wall portions 151a and 152a of the water tub housing 150. The hollow portion may be a portion of the first accommodation space 10a.

The outer cover 70 may include a first outer cover 71 and a second outer cover 72. The first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72 may form a first accommodation space 10a.

The first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72 may be arranged in parallel along the outer wall of the humidifier 100. In other words, the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72 may be arranged in parallel in the first direction D1. For example, the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72 may be arranged in parallel in the upward and downward directions.

The first outer cover 71 may be disposed further away from the humid air outlet 17 than the second outer cover 72. In other words, the second outer cover 72 may be disposed closer to the humid air outlet 17 than the first outer cover 71. For example, the first outer cover 71 may be disposed below the second outer cover 72, and the second outer cover 72 may be disposed above the first outer cover 71.

At least a portion of the first housing 151 may be disposed inside the first outer cover 71. In other words, the first outer cover 71 may accommodate at least a portion of the first housing 151.

The first outer cover 71 may have a shape corresponding to the first housing 151. For example, the first housing 151 may be provided in a substantially cylindrical shape.

The first outer cover 71 may cover the bottom portion 151b of the first housing 151. The first outer cover 71 may cover at least a portion of the first side wall portion 151a of the first housing 151. For example, the first outer cover 71 may cover a lower portion of the first side wall portion 151a of the first housing 151.

At least a portion of the first housing 151 may be disposed inside the second outer cover 72. At least a portion of the second housing 152 may be disposed inside the second outer cover 72.

The second outer cover 72 may cover at least a portion of the first side wall portion 151a of the first housing 151. For example, the second outer cover 72 may cover an upper portion of the first side wall portion 151a of the first housing 151.

The second outer cover 72 may cover the second side wall portion 152a of the second housing 152. The second outer cover 72 may cover an outer surface of the first inclined portion 152b of the second housing 152. Additionally, the second outer cover 72 may cover at least a portion of the upper cover 160. For example, the second outer cover 72 may cover a lower portion of the upper cover 160.

A first separated space S1 may be formed between the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72. For example, the first separated space S1 may be provided between an upper end of the first outer cover 71 and a lower end of the second outer cover 72.

A second separated space S2 may be formed between the outer cover 70 and an inner wall of the main body 10. In other words, a second separated space S2 may be formed between the outer cover 70 and an inner wall of the second body 300.

The second separated space S2 may be communicated with the inflow space 201 through the body openings 210 and 310. The second separated space S2 may be communicated with the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the humidifier 100 through the first separated space S1. For example, the second separated space S2 may be communicated with the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1.

According to the present disclosure, the second separated space S2 may be an inner space of the main body 10, and the first accommodation space 10a may be an outer space of the main body 10. Because the second separated space S2 may be communicated with the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1, the inner space of the main body 10 may be communicated with the outer space of the main body 10 through the first separated space S1.

A detailed description of a flow path passing through the first separated space S1, the second separated space S2, the first accommodation space 10a, etc., will be provided in greater detail below.

The air conditioner 1 may include a heating source. The heating source may be configured to heat water stored in the humidifier 100.

The heating source may include the coil 400. The coil 400 may be provided to heat water stored in the humidifier 100. For example, the coil 400 may generate an induced current in at least a portion of the humidifier 100 to heat the humidifier 100, thereby heating water stored in the humidifier 100. For example, the coil 400 may generate an induced current in the water tub 110 to heat the water tub 110, thereby heating water stored in the water tub 110.

The air conditioner 1 may include a controller 500. The controller 500 may be configured to control the air conditioner 1. For example, the controller 500 may be configured to control the blower 20, the dust collector 50, the deodorizer 60 and/or the coil 400.

The controller 500 may be provided in plurality. For example, the plurality of controllers 500 may include a first controller 510, a second controller 520, and a third controller 530.

For example, the first controller 510 may be disposed in the second separated space S2. For example, the second controller 520 may be disposed in the second separated space S2 and may be provided on the opposite side of the first controller 510 with respect to the humidifier 100. For example, the third controller 530 may be disposed below the outer cover 70.

For example, the first controller 510 and the second controller 520 may be configured to control the coil 400. For example, the third controller 530 may be configured to control the blower 20, the dust collector 50 and/or the deodorizer 60. However, there is no special limitation on a control object of each of the first controller 510, the second controller 520, and the third controller 530.

Hereinafter, an example structure of the third flow path P3 will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 10, one portion of air flowing from the inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second flow path P2, and the other portion may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the third flow path P3. In this case, the third flow path P3 may sequentially passing through the body openings 210 and 310 and the humid air outlet 17 and extend from the inflow space 201 toward the outside of the air conditioner 1.

The third flow path P3 may include a first air discharge flow path P31. The first air discharge flow path P31 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 from the inflow space 201 and extend substantially in the first direction D1. The first air discharge flow path P31 may extend substantially in the first direction D1 in the second separated space S2.

For example, air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and then be introduced into the second separated space S2.

The second separated space S2 may surround the outer cover 70. The entire region of the second separated space S2 surrounding the outer cover 70 may be provided to allow air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 to pass therethrough.

The third flow path P3 may include a second air discharge flow path P32. The air flowing to an end portion of the first air discharge flow path P31 may flow along the second air discharge flow path P32.

The second air discharge flow path P32 may extend from the first separated space S1 formed between the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72. Because the second separated space S2 and the first accommodation space 10a may be communicated through the first separated space S1, air flowing along the second air discharge flow path P32 may be introduced into the first accommodation space 10a.

For example, air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 and the second air discharge flow path P32 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be introduced into the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1 from the second separated space S2.

The third flow path P3 may include a third air discharge flow path P33. The air flowing to an end portion of the second air discharge flow path P32 may flow along the third air discharge flow path P33.

The third air discharge flow path P33 may be formed inside the first accommodation space 10a. For example, the third air discharge flow path P33 may be formed between the second outer cover 72 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100. In other words, the third air discharge flow path P33 may be formed between the second outer cover 72 and the side wall portions 151a and 152a of the water tub housing 150.

The third air discharge flow path P33 may extend from the first separated space S1 to the humid air outlet 17. Therefore, the air flowing along the third air discharge flow path P33 may flow toward the humid air outlet 17.

In other words, the third air discharge flow path P33 may extend from the first separated space S1 to the vapor discharge port 163. Therefore, the air flowing along the third air discharge flow path P33 may flow toward the vapor discharge port 163. In this case, the air flowing along the third air discharge flow path P33 may flow toward the vapor discharge port 163 by passing through the air discharge hole 152c.

For example, air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31, the second air discharge flow path P32, and the third air discharge flow path P33 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be introduced into the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1 from the second separated space S2, and flow between the second outer cover 72 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100 toward the humid air outlet 17. In other words, air flowing along the third flow path P3 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and be introduced into the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1 from the second separated space S2, and flow between the second outer cover 72 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100 toward the humid air outlet 17.

The third flow path P3 may include a fourth air discharge flow path P34. The fourth air discharge flow path P34 may be branched from the first air discharge flow path P31. The fourth air discharge flow path P34 may extend from the second separated space S2 to a second accommodation space 10b, which will be described later. The air flowing along the fourth air discharge flow path P34 may join air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 and flow along the first air discharge flow path P31. A detailed description of the fourth air discharge flow path P34 will be provided in greater detail below.

Hereinafter, a specific structure of the vapor discharge flow path P4 will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 10, vapor generated from the first vapor generation region R1 may pass through the valve 140 and the flow hole 131a and be introduced into the space between the first guide part 131 and the second guide part 132. The vapor introduced into the space between the first guide part 131 and the second guide part 132 may pass through the vapor discharge hole 130a provided at the edge of the guide member 130 and flow toward the vapor discharge port 163. That is, the humidifier 100 may form the vapor discharge flow path P4 passing through the space between the first guide part 131 and the second guide part 132 and the vapor discharge hole 130a from the first vapor generation region R1 and extending toward the vapor discharge port 163.

In this case, the vapor discharge flow path P4 may join the third air discharge flow path P33 in a space between the vapor discharge port 163 and the vapor discharge hole 130a. For example, the vapor discharge flow path P4 may join the third air discharge flow path P33 between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g.

A humid air discharge flow path P5 may be formed by joining the vapor discharge flow path P4 and the third air discharge flow path P33. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region A shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating that a second housing is separated from the upper cover and peripheral components according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may be formed by joining the vapor discharge flow path P4 and the third air discharge flow path P33. The vapor flowing to an end portion of the vapor discharge flow path P4 may flow along the humid air discharge flow path P5. Additionally, the air flowing to an end portion of the third air discharge flow path P3 may flow along the humid air discharge flow path P5.

The vapor flowing along the vapor discharge flow path P4 may pass through the vapor discharge hole 130a and be introduced into the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g. The air flowing along the third air discharge flow path P33 may pass through the air discharge hole 152c and be introduced into the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g. For example, a joining point of the vapor discharge flow path P4 and the third air discharge flow path P33 may be the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g. Accordingly, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may extend from the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g.

Vapor discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a and air discharged from the air discharge hole 152c may be mixed in the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g. The vapor discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a and the air discharged from the air discharge hole 152c may form humid air by being mixed. The humid air described above may flow along the humid air discharge flow path P5 and be discharged outside the air conditioner 1.

The humid air discharge flow path P5 may include a flow path formed by the first discharge guide 164. For example, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may include a flow path formed between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b.

Accordingly, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may pass through the vapor discharge port 163 from the joining point of the vapor discharge flow path P4 and the third air discharge flow path P33, pass through the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b, and extend to the outside of the air conditioner 1. In other words, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may pass through the vapor discharge port 163 from the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g, pass through the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b, and extend to the outside of the air conditioner 1.

The vapor discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a and the air discharged from the air discharge hole 152c may be mixed by flowing along the humid air discharge flow path P5. For example, the vapor discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a and the air discharged from the air discharge hole 152c may be mixed primarily in the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g, and may be mixed secondarily by flowing along the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b. In particular, because the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b extend in the first direction D1 by a predetermined distance, the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b may also extend in the first direction by a predetermined distance, and the vapor and air flowing along the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b may be mixed for a sufficient time.

The vapor being discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a may be the vapor supplied from the vapor generation region R1. In this case, because vapor is generated as water stored in the vapor generation region R1 is heated and vaporized, the vapor may have a relatively high temperature. When vapor having a high temperature is discharged from the air conditioner 1 without cooling, damage such as burns may occur to the user.

According to the present disclosure, the vapor discharged from the vapor discharge hole 130a and the air discharged from air discharge hole 152c may be mixed for a sufficient time by passing through the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b. Therefore, vapor having a relatively high temperature may be cooled by air having a relatively low temperature. Accordingly, damage to the user that may be caused by vapor may be prevented and/or reduced.

However, the longer a time that vapor and air are mixed, the higher a possibility that condensate water may be generated due to vapor. When condensate water is generated before vapor is discharged from the air conditioner 1, humidifying efficiency of the air conditioner 1 may be reduced.

According to the present disclosure, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may have a shorter length than the vapor discharge flow path P4. For example, based on a flowing direction of vapor, a length that the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b extends may be relatively shorter than a length that another space through which the vapor passes extends. According to this configuration, an amount of condensate water generated before vapor is discharged from the air conditioner 1 may be reduced, and the humidifying efficiency of the air conditioner 1 may be prevented/suppressed from being reduced.

Referring to FIG. 10, one portion of air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the second flow path P2, and the other portion may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the third flow path P3. In this case, the air flowing along the third flow path P3 may pass through the humid air discharge flow path P5 together with the vapor discharged from the vapor discharge port 163.

In other words, one portion of the air flowing from the inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the humid air outlet 17. In this case, the other portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 together with the vapor discharged from the vapor discharge port 163.

For example, the air conditioner 1 may include the air outlet 15 provided to discharge only air and the humid air outlet 17 provided to discharge air and vapor together. According to this configuration, the air conditioner 1 may perform only the purifying function or may perform the purifying function and the humidifying function together.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the humid air discharge flow path P5 may extend from the space between the first inclined portion 152b and the second inclined portion 152g to the space between the first guide wall 164a and the second guide wall 164b. In this case, the vapor flowing along the humid air discharge flow path P5 may be cooled by the air flowing along the humid air discharge flow path P5. In this process, condensate water may be generated on a configuration forming the humid air discharge flow path P5.

For example, the longer a distance that vapor and air are mixed and flow together, the longer a temperature of the vapor may be cooled, and thus a possibility of condensate water formation may increase further. Therefore, there may be a higher possibility that condensate water may be generated on the first guide wall 164a or the second guide wall 164b.

In a case in which condensate water generated on the first guide wall 164a or the second guide wall 164b passes through the air discharge hole 152c and falls downward, there is a possibility that the air conditioner 1 may be damaged as the condensate water flows into electrical components of the air conditioner 1.

According to the present disclosure, the air conditioner 1 may include the protruding rib 152d provided along the edge of the air discharge hole 152c. Condensate water generated on the first guide wall 164a or the second guide wall 164b may flow to the upper surface of the first inclined portion 152b due to an own weight thereof, and the protruding rib 152d may induce the condensate water not to pass through the air discharge hole 152c, and at the same time guide the condensate water to a lower end of the upper surface of the first inclined portion 152b. The condensate water guided to the lower end of the upper surface of the first inclined portion 152b may pass through the vapor discharge hole 130a, flow into the space between the first guide part 131 and the second guide part 132, and then pass through the flow hole 131a and be introduced back into the water tub 110.

For example, through the protruding rib 152d, condensate water generated on the configuration forming the humid air discharge flow path P5 does not pass through the air discharge hole 152c and may be introduced into the water tub 110. Through this configuration, damage to the air conditioner 1 caused by the condensate water may be primarily prevented/reduced.

As described above, the air conditioner 1 may form the third air discharge flow path P33 passing through the air discharge hole 152c. In this case, air flowing along the third air discharge flow path P33 may pass through the air discharge hole 152c and flow upward.

When condensate water is formed on the protruding rib 152d, the condensate water may be pushed outward of the air discharge hole 152c by air passing through the air discharge hole 152c and flowing upward. Accordingly, the passing of condensate water to the air discharge hole 152c may be further limited. Through this configuration, damage to the air conditioner 1 due to condensate water may be prevented/reduced secondarily.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a hollow portion may be formed between the outer cover 70 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100. The hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100 may be a portion of the first accommodation space 10a.

The first separated space S1 may be formed between the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72. For example, the first separated space S1 may be provided between the upper end of the first outer cover 71 and the lower end of the second outer cover 72.

The second separated space S2 may be formed between the outer cover 70 and the inner wall of the second body 300. The second separated space S2 may be communicated with the first accommodation space 10a through the first separated space S1. For example, the second separated space S2 may be communicated with the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the humidifier 100 through the first separated space S1.

The first controller 510 and the second controller 520 may be provided in the second separated space S2. Each of the first controller 510 and the second controller 520 may include a plurality of electrical components.

As described above, the user may pour water into the cover opening 162 of the upper cover 160 to supply water to the humidifier 100. In this case, because the upper cover 160 may be provided on the inside of the humid air outlet 17, a case may occur in which water is poured into the humid air outlet 17 in a process of pouring water into the cover opening 162. Because the vapor discharge port 163 is provided on the upper cover 160, a case may occur in which water is poured into the vapor discharge port 163 in the process of pouring water into the cover opening 162. When water is poured into the humid air outlet 17 or the vapor discharge port 163, the water may be introduced into the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100.

Because the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the outer wall of the humidifier 100 may be communicated with the second separated space S2 through the first separated space S1, there is a possibility that water flowing to the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the humidifier 100 may be introduced into the second separated space S2. When water flows into the second separated space S2, there is a possibility that the air conditioner 1 may be damaged as water is introduced into the electrical components of the first controller 510 and the second controller 520.

According to the present disclosure, an inner diameter of the upper end of the first outer cover 71 may be larger than an outer diameter of the lower end of the second outer cover 72. For example, the upper end of the first outer cover 71 may be extended by being bent to the outside of the first outer cover 71.

Through this configuration, water passed and fallen between the second outer cover 72 and the humidifier 100 may be limited from escaping to the outside of the first outer cover 71. For example, even when water falls into the hollow portion formed between the outer cover 70 and the humidifier 100, water may be limited from being introduced into the second separated space S2 through the first separated space S1. Therefore, damage to the air conditioner 1 due to water being introduced into the electrical components of the first controller 510 and the second controller 520 may be prevented/reduced.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region B shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the humidifier, the second body, and peripheral components according to various embodiments. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a first controller according to various embodiments. FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the first controller according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, the first controller (e.g., including circuitry) 510 may be disposed in the second separated space S2. For example, the first controller 510 may be disposed between the inner wall of the second body 300 and the outer cover 70. For example, the first controller 510 may be mounted on the inner wall of the second body 300.

The first controller 510 may be disposed on the first air discharge flow path P31. In other words, the first controller 510 may be disposed on the third flow path P3. That is, the first controller 510 may be disposed on a flow path in which air introduced through the air inlet 14 flows toward the humid air outlet 17. According to this configuration, at least a portion of the first controller 510 may be cooled by air. A detailed description of this will be provided in greater detail below.

The first controller 510 may include a case 511. The case 511 may form an exterior of the first controller 510. The case 511 may form an accommodation space provided to accommodate the components of the first controller 510.

The case 511 may include a first case 511a and a second case 511b. The first case 511a and the second case 511b may be coupled to each other.

The first controller 510 may include a printed circuit board 512 and a plurality of electrical components mounted on the printed circuit board 512. The plurality of electrical components may be provided inside the case 511.

For example, the first controller 510 may include a heat generating element 512a. The heat generating element 512a may be provided inside the case 511.

The heat generating element 512a may generate heat on its own as the first controller 510 operates. For example, the heat generating element 512a may be an insulated gate bi-polar transistor (IGBT) or a bridge diode.

The first controller 510 may include a heat sink 513. The heat sink 513 may be configured to release heat generated from the heat generating element 512a to the outside of the case 511.

One portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided inside the case 511. One portion of the heat sink 513 may be mounted to the printed circuit board 512. One portion of the heat sink 513 may be disposed adjacent to the heat generating element 512a.

The other portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided outside the case 511. A plurality of heat dissipation fins 513a may be provided on the other portion of the heat sink 513 to increase heat dissipation efficiency.

As described above, one portion of air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the main body 10 through the second flow path P2, and the other portion may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the main body 10 through the third flow path P3. In this case, air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 of the third flow path P3 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and then be introduced into the second separated space S2. That is, air passed through the body openings 210 and 310 may be provided to flow into the second separated space S2 (see FIG. 10).

According to the present disclosure, the first controller 510 may be disposed in the second separated space S2. Therefore, air flowing into the second separated space S2 may exchange heat with the first controller 510. In this case, one portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided inside the case 511, and the other portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided outside the case 511, so that air flowing into the second separated space S2 may exchange heat with the other portion of the heat sink 513. One portion of the heat sink 513 may be disposed adjacent to the heat generating element 512a, so that air flowing into the second separated space S2 exchanges heat with the other portion of the heat sink 513, thereby cooling the heat generating element 512a. For example, because the plurality of heat dissipation fins 513a may be provided on the other portion of the heat sink 513 to increase the heat dissipation efficiency, cooling efficiency of the heat generating element 512a may be further increased.

For example, the air conditioner 1 may cool the heat generating element 512a using air being blown by the blower 20. In other words, the air conditioner 1 may control a temperature of the first controller 510 using air being blown by the blower 20. Therefore, the air conditioner 1 may not be equipped with a cooling fan for controlling the temperature of the first controller 510, and noise increase caused by a cooling fan may also be prevented/reduced.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region C shown in FIG. 10 according to various embodiments. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that a coil and peripheral components are separated from the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments. FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view illustrating that the coil and the peripheral components are separated from the humidifier and the second body according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 17 to 19, the air conditioner 1 may include the coil 400. The coil 400 may generate an induced current in at least a portion of the humidifier 100 to heat the humidifier, thereby heating water stored in the humidifier 100. For example, the coil 400 may generate an induced current in the water tub 110 to heat the water tub, thereby heating water stored in the water tub 110. In this case, the water tub may be made of a magnetic material.

The main body 10 may form the second accommodation space 10b to accommodate the coil 400. The second accommodation space 10b may be provided below the outer cover 70. For example, the second accommodation space 10b may be provided below the first outer cover 71. For example, the second accommodation space 10b may be formed by a coil mounting part 81 and a coil cover 83, which will be described in greater detail below.

For example, the second accommodation space 10b may be formed in the second body 300. In other words, the second body 300 may include the second accommodation space 10b.

The second body 300 may include the coil mounting part 81 on which the coil 400 is mounted. The coil mounting part 81 may be provided on a lower surface of the first outer cover 71. For example, the coil mounting part 81 may be provided on a central portion of the lower surface of the first outer cover 71. The coil mounting part 81 may be formed integrally with the first outer cover 71 or may be provided separately.

The second body 300 may include a coil bracket 82. The coil bracket 82 may be provided in a center of the coil mounting part 81. The coil bracket 82 may be provided to be coupled with the coil 400. The coil 400 may be mounted to the coil mounting part 81 by being coupled with the coil bracket 82.

The second body 300 may include the coil cover 83. The coil cover 83 may be provided on a lower side of the coil 400. The coil cover 83 may be disposed spaced apart from the coil 400. The coil cover 83 may form the second accommodation space 10b together with the coil mounting part 81 and the lower surface of the first outer cover 71.

The coil cover 83 may be disposed above the third controller 530. That is, the coil cover 83 may be disposed between the coil 400 and the third controller 530. In other words, the coil cover 83 may partition a space in which the coil 400 is provided and a space in which the third controller 530 is provided.

The second body opening 310 may be provided on the coil cover 83. For example, the second body opening 310 may be provided along an edge of the coil cover 83. However, the position where the second body opening 310 is formed is not limited to the coil cover 83.

As described above, the coil 400 may heat the water tub 110 by generating an induced current in the water tub 110. In this case, an alternating current may flow through the coil 400 to generate an induced current in the water tub 110. As the alternating current flows through the coil 400, a temperature of the coil 400 may increase.

For example, in a process of heating the water tub 110 through the coil 400, the temperatures of both the coil 400 and the water tub 110 may increase. In particular, because the coil 400 may be provided adjacent to the bottom 110b of the water tub 110, the temperatures of both the coil 400 and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110 may increase.

Temperatures of components provided around the coil 400 and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110 may be increased by the coil 400 and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110 having relatively high temperatures. For example, the temperature of the coil mounting part 81 or the coil cover 83 may be increased by the coil 400 and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110.

According to the present disclosure, at least one of the coil mounting part 81 and the coil cover 83 may include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and glass fiber. That is, at least one of the coil mounting part 81 and the coil cover 83 may include a material in which PBT and glass fiber are mixed. For example, at least one of the coil mounting part 81 and the coil cover 83 may include a material made of PBT with a weight ratio of 85 percent and glass fiber with a weight ratio of 15 percent.

A material in which PBT and glass fiber are mixed may have a relatively high thermal deformation temperature. Because at least one of the coil mounting part 81 and the coil cover 83 includes a material in which PBT and glass fiber are mixed, thermal deformation or fire caused by the coil 400 and the bottom 110b of the water tub 110 may be prevented/reduced.

As described above, as the alternating current flows through the coil 400, the temperature of the coil 400 may increase. When the temperature of the coil 400 increases, a high temperature may act as resistance to the current flowing through the coil 400, thereby reducing the heating efficiency of the coil 400 and the water tub 110 using the coil 400.

According to the present disclosure, the second accommodation space 10b in which the coil 400 is accommodated may communicate with the second separated space S2. For example, a connection opening 10c may be formed on one side of the second accommodation space 10b, and the second accommodation space 10b and the second separated space S2 may communicate with each other through the connection opening 10c.

According to this configuration, a portion of air flowing into the second separated space S2 may be introduced into the second accommodation space 10b. As air is introduced into the second accommodation space 10b in which the coil 400 is accommodated, the coil 400 may exchange heat with the air. For example, the coil 400 may be cooled. Therefore, the heating efficiency of the coil 400 and the water tub 110 using the coil 400 may be prevented/avoided from being reduced.

Hereinafter, a flow process of air being introduced into the second accommodation space 10b will be described in greater detail, together with a description of the fourth air discharge flow path P34 extending from the second separated space S2 to the second accommodation space 10b.

As described above, one portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the air outlet 15, and the other portion may be provided to be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the humid air outlet 17. In this case, the other portion of the air flowing from the air inlet 14 toward the humid air outlet 17 may pass through the body openings 210 and 310 and flow into the second body 300, and then be discharged to the outside of the air conditioner 1 through the humid air outlet 17. The air passed through the body openings 210 and 310 may be first introduced into the second separated space S2. In other words, the air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 may be first introduced into the second separated space S2 (see FIG. 10).

One portion of the air flowing into the second separated space S2 may be introduced into the second accommodation space 10b through the connection opening 10c. In other words, one portion of the air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 may flow along the fourth air discharge flow path P34 formed by being branched from the first air discharge flow path P31.

The air flowing into the second accommodation space 10b may be introduced again into the second separated space S2. In other words, the air flowing along the fourth air discharge flow path P34 may again join with the air flowing along the first air discharge flow path P31 and flow along the first air discharge flow path P31. For example, the air flowing into the second accommodation space 10b may be introduced again into the second separated space S2 through the connection opening 10c. Although not shown in the drawings, an opening for discharging the air flowing into the second accommodation space 10b may also be formed between the first outer cover 71 and the coil cover 83.

An air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment includes a main body 10 including an inlet 14, a first outlet 17, and a second outlet 15, a blower 20 configured to introduce air through the inlet 14 inside the main body 10 or to discharge air to the first outlet 17, and a humidifier 100 configured to discharge vapor through the first outlet 17. The second outlet 15 is configured to allow one portion of air flowing from the inlet 14 toward the first outlet 17 to be discharged therethrough, and provided between the inlet 14 and the first outlet 17 based on a flowing direction D1 of air directing to the first outlet 17 from the inlet 14.

The main body 10 may include an accommodation space 10a recessed in one surface of the main body 10 in which the first outlet 17 is provided to accommodate the humidifier 100. The humidifier 100 may include a vapor discharge port 163 configured to allow vapor to be discharged at a position corresponding to the first outlet 17.

The air conditioner 1 may further include a discharge guide 18 and 164 configured to form a flow path P33 through which vapor discharged from the vapor discharge port 163 passes. An other portion of the air flowing from the inlet 14 toward the first outlet 17 may pass through the flow path P33 together with the vapor discharged from the vapor discharge port 163.

The main body 10 may include a first outer cover 71 and a second outer cover 72 arranged in parallel along outer walls 151a and 152a of the humidifier 100 and configured to form the accommodation space 10a and cover the outer walls 151a and 152a of the humidifier 100. A separated space S1 may be formed between the first outer cover 71 and the second outer cover 72 such that the inside of the main body 10 and the accommodation space 10a configured to be in communication with each other. The second outer cover 72 may be disposed closer to the first outlet 17 than the first outer cover 71. A discharge flow path P33 may be formed between the second outer cover 72 and the outer walls 151a and 152a of the humidifier 100 and configured to cause air introduced into the accommodation space 10a from the inside of the main body 10 through the separated space S1 to flow toward the first outlet 17.

The other portion of the air flowing from the inlet 14 toward the first outlet 17 may be configured to be introduced into the accommodation space 10a through the separated space S1 from the inside of the main body 10, flow along the discharge flow path P33, and be discharged through the first outlet 17 together with the vapor discharged through the vapor discharge port 163.

The first outer cover 71 may be disposed below the second outer cover 72. The separated space S1 may be provided between an upper end of the first outer cover 71 and a lower end of the second outer cover 72. An inner diameter of the upper end of the first outer cover 71 may be greater than an outer diameter of the lower end of the second outer cover 72.

The main body 10 may include a first body 200 in which the blower 20 is disposed, and a second body 300 including the accommodation space 10a configured to accommodate the humidifier 100 and connected to the first body 200. The first body 200 may include a first body opening 210 configured such that the other portion of the air flowing from the inlet toward the first outlet 17 passes therethrough. The second body 300 may include a second body opening 310 provided at a position corresponding to the first body opening 210.

The second body 300 may further include an outer cover 70 configured to cover the outside of the humidifier 100 to form the accommodation space 10a. The air conditioner 1 may further include a controller 510, comprising circuitry, configured to control the air conditioner 1 and disposed in a separated space S2 formed between an inner wall of the second body 300 and the outer cover 70. Air passing through the first body opening 210 and the second body opening 310 may be configured to flow into the separated space S2.

The controller 510 may include a case 510, a heat generating element 512a comprising a coil provided inside the case 510, and a heat sink 513 configured to release heat generated from the heat generating element 512a to the outside of the case 510. One portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided inside the case 510, and an other portion of the heat sink 513 may be provided outside the case 510.

The accommodation space 10a may include the first accommodation space 10a. The air conditioner 1 may further include a coil 400 accommodated in a second accommodation space 10b provided below the outer cover 70 and configured to generate an induced current in at least a portion of the humidifier 100 to heat water stored in the humidifier 100. The second accommodation space 10b may be configured to be in communication with the separated space S2 to allow one portion of the air flowing into the separated space S2 to be introduced.

The second body 300 may further include a coil mount 81 on which the coil 400 is mounted, and a coil cover 83 configured to form the second accommodation space 10b together with the coil mount 81. At least one of the coil mount 81 and the coil cover 83 may include PBT and glass fiber.

The one surface of the main body 10 may comprise an upper surface of the main body 10. The humidifier 100 may further include a water tub 110 configured to store water, a water tub housing 150 surrounding an outer wall 110a of the water tub 110, and an upper cover 160 configured to cover an upper side of the water tub housing 150. The vapor discharge port 163 may be provided at an edge of the upper cover 160.

The humidifier 100 may further include a guide 130 disposed between the water tub 110 and the upper cover 160, the guide 130 including a vapor discharge hole 130a provided at an edge of the guide 130 and configured to guide vapor generated inside the water tub 110 to the outside of the guide 130. The water tub housing 150 may include a side wall portion 152a extending in upward and downward directions, and an inclined portion 152b provided along the edge of the guide 130, the inclined portion 152b being bent from the side wall portion 152a toward the vapor discharge port 163 and extending to be inclined upward.

The inclined portion 152b may include an air discharge hole 152c configured to allow air flowing along the discharge flow path P33 to pass therethrough.

The inclined portion 152b may include a rib 152d provided along an edge of the air discharge hole 152c and protruding from an upper surface of the inclined portion 152b.

An air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment includes a first body 200 including an inlet 14 and a first outlet 15, a second body 300 including a second outlet 17, a blower 20 configured to introduce air through the inlet 14 inside the first body 200 or to discharge air to the first outlet 17, and a humidifier 100 mounted on the second body 300 and configured to discharge vapor through the second outlet 17. One portion of the air introduced through the blower 20 is provided to be discharged through the first outlet 17. The first body 200 includes a first body opening 210 provided to allow the other portion of the air flowing toward the first outlet 17 to pass therethrough. The second body 300 includes a second body opening 310 provided at a position corresponding to the first body opening 210.

The second body 300 may further include an outer cover 70 configured to cover the outside of the humidifier 100. The air conditioner 1 may further include a controller 510 configured to control the air conditioner 1 and disposed in a separated space S2 formed between an inner wall of the second body 300 and the outer cover 70. Air passed through the first body opening 210 and the second body opening 310 may be provided to flow into the separated space S2.

The air conditioner 1 may further include a coil 400 accommodated in an accommodation space 10b provided below the outer cover 70 and configured to generate an induced current in at least a portion of the humidifier 100 to heat water stored in the humidifier 100. The accommodation space 10b may communicate with the separated space S2 such that one portion of the air flowing into the separated space S2 is introduced thereinto.

The second body 300 may include a first outer cover 71 configured to cover outer walls 151a and 152a of the humidifier 100, and a second outer cover 72 disposed above the first outer cover 71. An inner diameter of an upper end of the first outer cover 71 may be larger than an outer diameter of a lower end of the second outer cover 72.

An air conditioner 1 according to an example embodiment includes a main body 10 including an inlet 14 and an outlet 17, a humidifier 100 configured to discharge vapor through the outlet 17 and including a water tub 110 configured to store water, a coil 400 disposed in an accommodation space 10b provided below the humidifier 100 and configured to generate an induced current in the water tub 110 to heat water stored in the water tub 110, and a controller 510 disposed in a separated space S2 formed between an outer cover 70 covering the outside of the humidifier 100 and an inner wall of the main body 10 and configured to control the coil 400. The controller 510 is disposed on a flow path P3 through which air introduced through the inlet 14 flows toward the outlet 17. The accommodation space 10a and the separated space S2 communicates with each other.

According to the present disclosure, an air conditioner may include a first body in which a dust collector and a deodorizer are disposed and a second body in which a humidifier is disposed. Through this configuration, the air conditioner can perform both air purification and humidification functions.

According to the present disclosure, the air conditioner can form a flow path in which air passed through the dust collector and the deodorizer flows toward a vapor discharge port. Through this configuration, air filtered and purified by the dust collector and the deodorizer and vapor generated and vaporized in the humidifier can be mixed with each other and discharged to the outside.

According to the present disclosure, a controller can be disposed on a flow path along which air passed through the dust collector and the deodorizer flows toward the vapor discharge port. Through this configuration, the air conditioner can control a temperature of the controller even without having a separate cooling fan.

Effects according to the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

The foregoing has illustrated and described various example embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example embodiments, and various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure including the following claims. 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.