U.S. patent application number 14/265683 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-27 for air conditioner and method of controlling an air conditioner.
This patent application is currently assigned to LG Electronics Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is LG Electronics Inc.. Invention is credited to Jihan Kim, Changhyun Song.
Application Number | 20140345826 14/265683 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50721555 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140345826 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kim; Jihan ; et al. |
November 27, 2014 |
AIR CONDITIONER AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING AN AIR CONDITIONER
Abstract
An air conditioner is provided that include an outdoor unit
configured to implement heat exchange of refrigerant, at least one
indoor unit configured to implement exchange of refrigerant with
the outdoor unit and air conditioning of indoor air, and an
electricity reception device configured to receive an electricity
regulation signal indicating a level with regard to electricity
usage and to transmit a level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal to the outdoor unit or the indoor
unit. The outdoor unit or the indoor unit, which has received the
level signal, controls operation of the at least one indoor unit
connected thereto based on the level of the electricity regulation
signal.
Inventors: |
Kim; Jihan; (Changwon-si,
KR) ; Song; Changhyun; (Changwon-si, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LG Electronics Inc. |
Seoul |
|
KR |
|
|
Assignee: |
LG Electronics Inc.
Seoul
KR
|
Family ID: |
50721555 |
Appl. No.: |
14/265683 |
Filed: |
April 30, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
165/11.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 2140/60 20180101;
Y02B 30/70 20130101; F24F 1/0003 20130101; Y02B 30/741 20130101;
F24F 11/30 20180101; F25B 2600/021 20130101; F24F 11/46 20180101;
F24F 11/83 20180101; F25B 2700/15 20130101; F25B 13/00 20130101;
F25B 49/022 20130101; F24F 11/62 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
165/11.1 |
International
Class: |
F24F 11/00 20060101
F24F011/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 30, 2013 |
KR |
10-2013-0048523 |
Claims
1. An air conditioner, comprising: an outdoor device configured to
implement heat exchange with a refrigerant; at least one indoor
device configured to implement exchange of refrigerant with the
outdoor device to air condition indoor air; and an electricity
reception device configured to receive an electricity regulation
signal indicating a level with regard to electricity usage and to
transmit a level signal indicating the level indicated by the
electricity regulation signal to the outdoor device or the at least
one indoor device, wherein the outdoor device or the indoor device
checks required electricity consumption from the level signal upon
receiving the level signal, and controls an operating state thereof
to conform to the required electricity consumption.
2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the
electricity reception device includes a switching circuit
configured to output different signals based on the level indicated
by the electricity regulation signal.
3. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outdoor
device includes a compressor having an inverter configured to
adjust an operation frequency thereof, and wherein the outdoor
device controls the operation frequency of the compressor based on
the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal.
4. The air conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the level
indicated by the electricity regulation signal is one of a first
level, a second level, or a third level, wherein the outdoor device
stops operation of the compressor when the level indicated by the
electricity regulation signal is the first level, wherein the
outdoor device changes the operation frequency of the compressor to
approximately 50% when the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal is the second level, and wherein the outdoor
device changes the operation frequency of the compressor to
approximately 75% when the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal is the third level.
5. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the outdoor
device or the at least one indoor device implements an operation to
control an operating degree of a blowing fan of the outdoor device
or the at least one indoor device, respectively, based on the level
indicated by the electricity regulation signal upon receiving the
level signal.
6. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one indoor device comprises a plurality of indoor devices connected
to the outdoor device, and wherein, when the outdoor device
receives the level signal, the outdoor device differently controls
an operating state of each of the plurality of indoor devices based
on the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal.
7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein the outdoor
device determines whether or not each of the plurality of indoor
devices will be operated based on priorities of the plurality of
indoor devices.
8. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, when the at
least one indoor device receives the level signal, the at least one
indoor device adjusts a set flow rate or a set temperature based on
the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal, the set
flow rate being a set amount of air to be discharged from the at
least one indoor device, and the set temperature being a set target
air conditioning temperature of indoor air.
9. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one indoor device includes a plurality of indoor devices, wherein
the plurality of indoor devices includes a master indoor device and
a plurality of indoor slave devices connected to the master indoor
device, and wherein the master indoor device differently controls
operation of the respective indoor slave devices based on the level
indicated by the electricity regulation signal upon receiving the
level signal.
10. The air conditioner according to claim 9, wherein the outdoor
device or the respective indoor units implements an operation to
adjust electricity consumption for a predetermined period of time,
and then returns to normal operation.
11. A method of controlling an air conditioner, comprising:
receiving an electricity regulation signal indicating a level with
regard to electricity usage; outputting a level signal indicating
the level of the electricity regulation signal; and implementing an
operation, by an outdoor device or at least one indoor device
connected to the outdoor device, to adjust electricity consumption
of the air conditioner by adjusting electricity consumption of the
outdoor device or the at least one indoor device connected to the
outdoor device based on the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, upon implementation
of the operation, the outdoor device or the at least one indoor
device, which has received the level signal, implements an
operation to control an operating degree of a blowing fan.
13. The method according to claim 11, wherein implementation of the
operation includes controlling operation of a compressor,
configured to compress refrigerant, based on the level indicated by
the electricity regulation signal, wherein the compressor includes
an inverter configured to adjust an operation frequency, and
wherein implementation of the operation includes controlling the
operation frequency of the compressor based on the level indicated
by the electricity regulation signal.
14. The method according to claim 11, wherein implementation of the
operation includes checking required electricity consumption from
the level signal.
15. The method according to claim 11, wherein, upon implementation
of the operation, the at least one indoor device, which has
received the level signal, adjusts a set flow rate or a set
temperature based on the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal, the set flow rate being a set amount of air to
be discharged from the indoor device, and the set temperature being
a set target air conditioning temperature of indoor air.
16. The method according to claim 11, wherein the outdoor device,
which has received the level signal, is connected to a plurality of
indoor devices, and wherein, upon implementation of the operation,
the outdoor device differently controls an operating state of each
of the plurality of indoor devices based on required electricity
consumption checked from the level signal.
17. The method according to claim 11, wherein the outdoor device,
which has received the level signal, is connected to a plurality of
indoor devices, and wherein, upon implementation of the operation,
the outdoor device prioritizes the plurality of indoor devices and
determines whether or not each of the plurality of indoor devices
will be operated based on the priorities.
18. The method according to claim 11, wherein, upon implementation
of the operation, the at least one indoor device adjusts a set flow
rate or a set temperature based on the level indicated by the
electricity regulation signal, the set flow rate being a set amount
of air to be discharged from the indoor device, and the set
temperature being a set target air conditioning temperature of
indoor air.
19. The method according to claim 11, wherein the at least one
indoor device comprises a master indoor device and a plurality of
indoor slave devices connected to the master indoor device, and
wherein, upon implementation of the operation, the master indoor
device differently controls operation of the respective indoor
slave devices based on the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal upon receiving the level signal.
20. The method according to claim 11, wherein, upon implementation
of the operation, the outdoor device or the at least one indoor
device implements an operation to adjust electricity consumption
for a predetermined period of time, and then returns to normal
operation.
21. An air conditioner, comprising: an outdoor device including a
compressor, a heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a fan; at
least one indoor device in communication with the outdoor device to
perform air conditioning of indoor air, the at least one indoor
device including a heat exchanger and a fan; and an electricity
reception device including a switching circuit configured to output
different signals based on the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal configured to receive an electricity regulation
signal indicating a level with regard to electricity usage and to
transmit a level signal indicating the level indicated by the
electricity regulation signal to the outdoor device or the at least
one indoor device, wherein the outdoor device or the indoor device
checks required electricity consumption from the level signal upon
receiving the level signal, and controls an operating state thereof
to conform to the required electricity consumption.
22. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the
compressor of the outdoor device includes an inverter configured to
adjust an operation frequency thereof, and wherein the outdoor
device controls the operation frequency of the compressor based on
the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal.
23. The air conditioner according to claim 22, wherein the level
indicated by the electricity regulation signal is one of a first
level, a second level, or a third level, wherein the outdoor device
stops operation of the compressor when the level indicated by the
electricity regulation signal is the first level, wherein the
outdoor device changes the operation frequency of the compressor to
approximately 50% when the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal is the second level, and wherein the outdoor
device changes the operation frequency of the compressor to
approximately 75% when the level indicated by the electricity
regulation signal is the third level.
24. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the outdoor
device or the at least one indoor device implements an operation to
control an operating degree of the fan of the outdoor device or the
fan of the at least one indoor device, respectively, based on the
level indicated by the electricity regulation signal upon receiving
the level signal.
25. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the at least
one indoor device comprises a plurality of indoor devices connected
to the outdoor device, and wherein, when the outdoor device
receives the level signal, the outdoor device differently controls
an operating state of each of the plurality of indoor devices based
on the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal.
26. The air conditioner according to claim 25, wherein the outdoor
device determines whether or not each of the plurality of indoor
devices will be operated based on priorities of the plurality of
indoor devices.
27. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein, when the at
least one indoor device receives the level signal, the at least one
indoor device adjusts a set flow rate or a set temperature based on
the level indicated by the electricity regulation signal, the set
flow rate being a set amount of air to be discharged from the at
least one indoor device, and the set temperature being a set target
air conditioning temperature of indoor air.
28. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the at least
one indoor device includes a plurality of indoor devices, wherein
the plurality of indoor devices includes a master indoor device and
a plurality of indoor slave devices connected to the master indoor
device, and wherein the master indoor device differently controls
operation of the respective indoor slave devices based on the level
indicated by the electricity regulation signal upon receiving the
level signal.
29. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the outdoor
device or the at least one indoor unit implements an operation to
adjust electricity consumption for a predetermined period of time,
and then returns to normal operation.
30. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the
compressor of the outdoor unit is turned on or off based on the
level indicated by the electricity regulation signal.
31. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the
electricity reception device is in communication with at least one
of the outdoor device or the at least one indoor device.
32. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein at least one
of the outdoor device or the at least one indoor device includes a
memory, a processor, and a communication device.
33. The air conditioner according to claim 21, wherein the at least
one indoor device includes a display.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent
Application No. 10-2013-0048523 filed on Apr. 30, 2013, in the
Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] An air conditioner, and a method of controlling an air
conditioner are disclosed herein.
[0004] 2. Background
[0005] An air conditioner is installed to provide human beings with
a more pleasant indoor environment by discharging cold or warm air
into a room to adjust an indoor temperature and to purify indoor
air. Typically, an air conditioner includes an indoor unit or
device installed in a room, the indoor unit including a heat
exchanger, and an outdoor unit or device including a compressor, a
heat exchanger, and other components to supply refrigerant to the
indoor unit.
[0006] In the typical air conditioner, the indoor unit including
the heat exchanger and the outdoor unit including the compressor,
the heat exchanger, and other components are controlled separately
from each other. Operation of the indoor unit and the outdoor unit
is accomplished by controlling supply of power to the compressor or
the heat exchanger. In addition, in the air conditioner, at least
one indoor unit may be connected to the outdoor unit, and
refrigerant supplied to the indoor unit based on a requested
operating state to allow the indoor unit to be operated in a
cooling mode or a heating mode.
[0007] A cooling operation or a heating operation of the air
conditioner depends on a flow of refrigerant. In the case of a
cooling operation, once high-temperature and high-pressure
liquid-phase refrigerant is supplied from the compressor of the
outdoor unit to the indoor unit by way of the heat exchanger of the
outdoor unit, the refrigerant undergoes expansion and evaporation
in the heat exchanger of the indoor unit, thereby lowering a
temperature of surrounding air. The resulting cold air is then
discharged into a room via rotation of an indoor unit fan. In the
case of a heating operation, once high-temperature and
high-pressure gas-phase refrigerant is supplied from the compressor
of the outdoor unit to the indoor unit, the high-temperature and
high-pressure gas-phase refrigerant is liquefied in the heat
exchanger of the indoor unit, thereby radiating heat to surrounding
air. The resulting warm air is then discharged into a room via
rotation of the indoor unit fan.
[0008] Use of air conditioners is maximized throughout the country
in summer or winter, which may cause serious electricity
consumption. Thus, discussions concerning national systems to
control the use of electricity are intensifying. When implementing
a system to guide use reduction of various electronic appliances in
a time slot during which electricity consumption peaks, this
requires research on air conditioners capable of regulating
electricity consumption.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Embodiments will be described in detail with reference to
the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to
like elements, and wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating supply of power
to an air conditioner in accordance with an embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operating
method of an air conditioner in accordance with an embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner system
in accordance with an embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an outdoor unit and an
indoor unit included in an air conditioner in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0015] FIGS. 6 and 7A-7C are schematic diagrams illustrating a
method of controlling an indoor unit by an outdoor unit of an air
conditioner in accordance with an embodiment;
[0016] FIGS. 8 and 9A-9C are schematic diagrams illustrating an
indoor unit of an air conditioner and a display operation of the
indoor unit in accordance with an embodiment; and
[0017] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method of controlling an air
conditioner in accordance with an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Advantages and features and a method of achieving the same
will be more clearly understood from embodiments described below
with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, embodiments
are not limited to the following embodiments, but may be
implemented in various different forms. The embodiments are
provided merely to complete disclosure and to fully provide a
person having ordinary skill in the art with a category. The
invention is defined only by the category of the claims. Wherever
possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the
specification to refer to the same or like parts.
[0019] Terms `first`, `second`, etc. may be used to describe
various elements. However, these elements are not restricted by
such terms. These terms are used to distinguish between one element
and another element. For example, first contact may be referred to
as second contact without departing from the scope. In the same
manner, second contact may be referred to as first contact. The
first contact and the second contact may be both contact but not
the same contact.
[0020] Terms used in the description are provided only to explain
embodiments but are not intended to restrict. In the description
and the accompanying claims, the singular forms are intended to
include the plural forms as well, unless context clearly indicates
otherwise. The use of marks may indicate any one or both of the
singular forms and the plural forms of the terms, and vice
versa.
[0021] It will be understood that the term "and/or" refers to one
or more possible combinations of specified relevant items and
includes such combinations. It will be further understood that the
terms "comprises" and/or "comprising" used in this specification
designate presence of specified features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, and/or components but do not exclude presence
or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0022] The term "if" may be interpreted to mean "when" or "upon" or
"in response to determining" or "in response to detecting" from the
context. In the same manner, the phrases "in a determined case" or
"in a case in which [a specified condition or event] is detected"
may be interpreted to mean "upon determining", "in response to
determining", "upon detecting [a specified condition or event]" or
"in response to detecting [a specified condition or event]" from
the context.
[0023] Embodiments of computing devices, user interfaces for these
devices, and associated processes to use these devices will be
described below.
[0024] It is noted that features or components of any of the
embodiments disclosed herein may be combined with features or
components of any other of the embodiments disclosed herein, as
would be recognized by one skilled in the art.
[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with
reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating supply of power
to an air conditioner in accordance with an embodiment. Referring
to FIG. 1, an air conditioner 30 in accordance with an embodiment
may be operated using power supplied by an electric power company
10.
[0027] The air conditioner 30 may be a cooling/heating system,
which may implement cooling of a room by repeatedly suctioning
high-temperature air from the room, providing heat exchange between
the high-temperature air and a low-temperature refrigerant, and
discharging the heat-exchanged, low-temperature air into the room,
or may implement heating of a room via a reverse operation. The air
conditioner 30 may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion
valve, and an evaporator, for example, which constitute a series of
cycles.
[0028] The air conditioner 30 may include an outdoor unit or device
installed at or in an outdoor place or location, and one or more
indoor unit or device installed inside a building. The outdoor unit
may include, for example, a condenser and a compressor, and the
indoor unit may include, for example, an evaporator. The outdoor
unit and the indoor unit may be connected to a central controller
(not shown) to receive a control signal.
[0029] The air conditioner 30 may receive power, supplied by the
electric power company 10, by way of an electricity reception
device 20. The electricity reception device 20 may extract an
electricity regulation signal from the power supplied by the
electric power company 10. The electricity reception device 20 may
include, for example, a router, or a modem, which may extract an
electricity regulation signal from power; however, embodiments are
not limited thereto.
[0030] According to embodiments, the air conditioner 30 may be
adapted to adjust electricity consumption based on the electricity
regulation signal. More particularly, the air conditioner 30 may
adjust electricity consumption by differently controlling operation
thereof based on multiple levels of the electricity regulation
signal. For example, the air conditioner 30 may adjust electricity
consumption by controlling operation of a plurality of indoor
units, or by controlling operation of a compressor included in the
outdoor unit.
[0031] The electricity reception device 20 may further include a
switching circuit 21 to transmit different signals to the air
conditioner 30 based on a level of the electricity regulation
signal. The switching circuit (not shown) may convert the level of
the electricity regulation signal into a signal that the air
conditioner 30 can recognize, and transmit the same to the air
conditioner 30.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner in
accordance with an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, an indoor unit
or device 200 of air conditioner 30 may be installed in an air
conditioning space, for example, an indoor space 105. The indoor
unit 200 may include an auxiliary heater 214, an indoor heat
exchanger 235, and an indoor fan 230, which may be arranged in this
sequence from a back of an indoor suction port 205 formed in or at
a front face of the indoor unit 200.
[0033] Air of the indoor space 105 may be suctioned into the air
conditioner through the indoor suction port 205, and the suctioned
indoor air may be heat exchanged while passing through the indoor
heat exchanger 235. Then, the resulting temperature adjusted air
may be discharged into the indoor space 105 through an indoor
discharge port (not shown).
[0034] The indoor fan 230 may create a flow path, along which
indoor air may be suctioned into the air conditioner 30 and
thereafter discharged from the air conditioner 30. The auxiliary
heater 214 may function as an auxiliary component to prevent an
unwanted temperature drop in the indoor space 105 during
implementation of defrosting of a heating operation.
[0035] An outdoor unit or device 400 may be installed at an outside
of the air conditioning space, for example, at an outdoor place,
and may be connected to the indoor unit 200 through a conduit 250.
The outdoor unit 400 may include a compressor 410 that compresses
refrigerant to attain high-temperature and high-pressure
refrigerant, an outdoor heat exchanger 435 that condenses
refrigerant during a cooling operation and evaporates refrigerant
during a heating operation, an outdoor fan 430 that creates a flow
path, along which outdoor air may be suctioned into the outdoor
unit 400 and thereafter discharged from the outdoor unit 400, and
an expansion device 440 that expands refrigerant to obtain
low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant.
[0036] When the air conditioner 30 begins a heating operation, a
processor may transmit a control signal to each of the
aforementioned components to initiate operation thereof. In
response to the control signal transmitted from the processor, the
indoor fan 230 may begin to rotate and the compressor 410 may
compress refrigerant to discharge high-temperature and
high-pressure refrigerant.
[0037] The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant,
discharged from the compressor 410, may be introduced into the
indoor heat exchanger 235 and heat exchanged with indoor air
suctioned into the indoor unit 200 by the indoor fan 230. The
indoor air, which has been suctioned at a relatively
low-temperature, may be raised in temperature via heat exchange
with the refrigerant.
[0038] The refrigerant, heat exchanged while passing through the
indoor heat exchanger 235, may move through the expansion device
440 and the outdoor heat exchanger 435 in sequence, and then may be
returned to the compressor 410. Thereafter, through repetitions of
a heating cycle through the compressor 410, the indoor heat
exchanger 235, the expansion device 440, and the outdoor heat
exchanger 435 in this sequence, the indoor temperature may be
raised to a level that a user desires. In the case of a cooling
cycle, refrigerant compressed in the compressor 410 may be moved
through the expansion device 440 so as to be changed into
low-temperature refrigerant, and then supplied to the indoor unit
200.
[0039] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operating
method of an air conditioner in accordance with an embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 3, an air conditioner in accordance with
embodiments may be controlled in different ways in response to an
electricity regulation signal.
[0040] When an outdoor unit, such as outdoor unit 400 of FIG. 2,
receives an electricity regulation signal, the outdoor unit may
check required electricity consumption designated by the
electricity regulation signal. For example, the electricity
regulation signal may have any one of multiple levels. The outdoor
unit may check required electricity consumption by checking the
level of the electricity regulation signal.
[0041] The outdoor unit may control an operating state of the air
conditioner to conform to the checked electricity consumption. For
example, the outdoor unit may adjust an operation frequency of a
compressor, such as compressor 410 of FIG. 1, based on the required
electricity consumption. In the following description, the
electricity regulation signal may be assumed as having three
levels, such as a first level (L1), a second level (L2), and a
third level (L3).
[0042] More particularly, the air conditioner, such as air
conditioner 30 of FIG. 1, may check the level of the electricity
regulation signal. The outdoor unit may control operation of the
compressor based on the level of the electricity regulation signal.
Assuming that the air conditioner in accordance with embodiments is
adapted to adjust an operation frequency of the compressor using an
inverter, the operation frequency of the compressor may be
controlled in response to an electricity regulation signal.
[0043] For example, when the electricity regulation signal has the
first level (L1), the air conditioner may power the compressor off.
When the electricity regulation signal has the second level (L2),
the air conditioner may reduce an operation frequency of the
compressor to approximately 50%. When the electricity regulation
signal has the third level (L3), the air conditioner may reduce the
operation frequency of the compressor to approximately 75%.
[0044] Assuming that the air conditioner in accordance with
embodiments is a constant-speed type air conditioner, the air
conditioner may power the compressor on or off based on the level
of an electricity regulation signal. For example, the
constant-speed type air conditioner may stop operation of the
compressor when the electricity regulation signal has the first
level (L1). When the electricity regulation signal has the second
level (L2) or the third level (L3), the air conditioner may adjust
electricity consumption by adjusting a set temperature or a set
flow rate of an indoor unit while continuously operating the
compressor. Naturally, it will be appreciated that the above
description is merely one embodiment or example and embodiments are
not limited thereto.
[0045] In an alternative embodiment, when the air conditioner
receives an electricity regulation signal, the air conditioner may
stop operation of a compressor regardless of the level of the
electricity regulation signal, although embodiments are not limited
thereto.
[0046] The air conditioner may implement a control operation to
conform to required electricity consumption. To conform to the
required electricity consumption, the air conditioner may adjust an
operation frequency of a compressor included in an outdoor unit, or
may power the compressor on or off. Alternatively or additionally,
the air conditioner may differentiate operation of a plurality of
indoor units, or may adjust an operating state of a respective
indoor unit or units.
[0047] The air conditioner may individually control operation of a
plurality of indoor units. The air conditioner may first prioritize
the plurality of indoor units, and determine whether or not each
indoor unit will be operated based on the priorities.
[0048] Assuming that the air conditioner defines a first priority,
a second priority, and a third priority, a plurality of indoor
units may correspond to each of the first priority, the second
priority, and the third priority. That is, with a plurality of
indoor units, two or more indoor units may correspond to the first
priority, two or more indoor units may correspond to the second
priority, and two or more indoor units may correspond to the third
priority.
[0049] According to one embodiment, the air conditioner may control
a plurality of indoor units based on the level of an electricity
regulation signal in such a manner that the indoor units may be
individually operated or not operated. For example, when the level
of the electricity regulation signal is the third level (L3), the
air conditioner may stop operation of one or more indoor unit among
the indoor units that corresponds to the third priority. For
example, when the level of the electricity regulation signal is the
second level (L2), the air conditioner may stop operation of one or
more indoor unit among the indoor units that corresponds to the
second priority, as well as the one or more indoor unit that
corresponds to the third priority. For example, when the level of
the electricity regulation signal is the first level (L1), the air
conditioner may stop operation of all of the indoor units.
[0050] A display may be included in each indoor unit to display a
set temperature or a set flow rate of the indoor unit. The indoor
unit may store data regarding a set temperature or a set flow rate
corresponding to each level of an electricity regulation signal.
Once the level of an electricity regulation signal is checked, the
display of the indoor unit may display a set temperature or a set
flow rate conforming to the level of the electricity regulation
signal.
[0051] FIG. 3 is in the form of a table that shows a set flow rate
or a set temperature based on the level of an electricity
regulation signal. However, it will be appreciated that content of
the table is merely one embodiment and embodiments are not limited
thereto.
[0052] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner system
in accordance with an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 4, the air
conditioner system 100 may include electricity reception device 20,
which may receive an electricity regulation signal from, for
example, electric power company 10, outdoor unit or device 400 that
implements an operation based on a level of the electricity
regulation signal, a plurality of indoor units or devices 200 that
implements an operation based on the level of the electricity
regulation signal, a remote controller 60 used to control the
plurality of indoor units 200, and a portable terminal 50 that
receives the electricity regulation signal from the plurality of
indoor units 200 and reads out information.
[0053] The electricity reception device 20 may be located in the
outdoor unit 400 or each indoor unit 200. For example, the
electricity reception device 20 may include a switching circuit to
output a level signal indicating the level of the electricity
regulation signal. The electricity reception device 20 including
the switching circuit may be connected to the outdoor unit 400 or
each indoor unit 200. The switching circuit may output different
signals based on the level of the electricity regulation signal.
Although the switching circuit may be an electronic circuit to
output different signals based on the level of the electricity
regulation signal, the kind of the switching circuit is not limited
thereto.
[0054] In FIG. 4, the electricity reception device 20 is
illustrated as being installed to or at the outdoor unit 400 (more
particularly, connected to a point denoted by P3) to transmit a
level signal to the outdoor unit 400; however, embodiments are not
limited thereto. For example, the electricity reception device 20
may be installed to or at any one indoor unit 200 or the plurality
of indoor units 200, to transmit a level signal to any one indoor
unit 200 or the plurality of indoor units 200.
[0055] Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described
respectively in detail.
[0056] Embodiment Employing Electricity Reception Device 20
Installed to or at Outdoor Unit 400
[0057] The electricity reception device 20 may be installed to or
at the outdoor unit 400 (more particularly, the electricity
reception device 20 may be connected to a point denoted by P3). The
outdoor unit 400 may receive power from the electric power company
10. The electricity reception device 20 may extract an electricity
regulation signal from the power supplied by the electric power
company 10. The electricity reception device 20 and the electric
power company 10 may implement so-called power line
communication.
[0058] With this embodiment, the electricity reception device 20
may be integrated with the outdoor unit 400, or may be separate
from the outdoor unit 400 and function only to transmit a level
signal to the outdoor unit 400. Although not shown, the electricity
reception device 20 may include a router, or a modem, that extracts
an electricity regulation signal from power; however, embodiments
are not limited thereto.
[0059] The electricity reception device 20 may further include a
switching circuit (not shown) to transmit different signals to air
conditioner 30 based on the level of the electricity regulation
signal. The switching circuit (not shown) may convert the level of
the electricity regulation signal into a level signal that the air
conditioner 30 can recognize, and transmit the same to the air
conditioner.
[0060] The outdoor unit 400 may implement an operation to adjust
electricity consumption, and thereafter transmit control
information, such as a control instruction for adjustment of
electricity consumption to the indoor units 200, thereby enabling
reduction of total electricity consumption of the air conditioner.
The outdoor unit 400 may first determine an operating direction of
the indoor units 200, and thereafter transmit control information,
such as a control instruction based on the operating direction to
the indoor units 200.
[0061] For example, when the outdoor unit 400 receives an
electricity regulation signal, the outdoor unit 400 may determine
an operation degree of a compressor or whether to power the
compressor on or off based on the level of the electricity
regulation signal. In addition to adjusting the operation degree of
the compressor, the outdoor unit 400 may change the operating
direction of the indoor units 200 to adjust total electricity
consumption of the air conditioner.
[0062] The outdoor unit 400 may equally or differently control the
operating direction of the indoor units 200 connected thereto in
response to an electricity regulation signal. For example, when it
is desired to reduce electricity consumption, the outdoor unit 400
may reduce electricity consumption of all of the indoor units 200
connected thereto, or may differently adjust electricity
consumption of the indoor units 200 in consideration of importance
of the respective indoor units 400.
[0063] In a case in which the electricity reception device 20 is
directly connected to any one indoor unit 200 (more particularly,
the electricity reception device is connected to a point denoted by
P2), the indoor unit 200 may include a method to adjust electricity
consumption. For example, the indoor unit 400 may check the level
of an electricity regulation signal, and control an operation
thereof based on the checked level.
[0064] The indoor unit 200 may determine whether or not the indoor
unit 200 will be operated or an operating direction thereof via
communication with another indoor unit 200 or the outdoor unit 400.
For example, when the outdoor unit 400 reduces electricity
consumption, such that the electricity consumption remains equal to
or less than required electricity consumption designated by the
electricity regulation signal, the indoor unit 200 may continue
normal operation.
[0065] When the outdoor unit 400 has difficulty in reducing
electricity consumption, each of the indoor units 200 may begin an
operation to reduce electricity consumption. Each of the indoor
units 200 may receive control information, such as a control
instruction transmitted from the outdoor unit 400 or a master
indoor unit, thereby determining an operating direction
thereof.
[0066] In another embodiment, when a difference between current
electricity consumption and required electricity consumption
designated by the electricity regulation signal is too small to
cause the outdoor unit 400 to reduce operation of a compressor,
electricity consumption may be adjusted by adjusting a set
temperature or a set flow rate of the indoor units 200.
[0067] The outdoor unit 400 may adjust electricity consumption of
the air conditioner 30 in response to an electricity regulation
signal. For example, the outdoor unit 400 may control operation of
a compressor (not shown) in response to an electricity regulation
signal. Assuming that the air conditioner 30 in accordance
embodiments is adapted to adjust an operation frequency of a
compressor using an inverter, the operation frequency of the
compressor may be controlled in response to an electricity
regulation signal.
[0068] The electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. The outdoor unit 400 may adjust the operation
frequency of the compressor based on the level of the electricity
regulation signal. As described above, the electricity regulation
signal may have three levels. For example, if the air conditioner
in accordance with embodiments is a constant-speed type air
conditioner, the air conditioner may power a compressor on or off
based on the level of an electricity regulation signal.
[0069] The outdoor unit 400 may be connected to the plurality of
indoor units 200. The outdoor unit 400 may prioritize the plurality
of indoor units 200. The outdoor unit 400 may determine whether or
not each of the indoor units 200 will be operated based on the
priorities. More particularly, the outdoor unit 400 may determine
whether or not each of the indoor units 200 will be operated based
on the priorities upon receiving an electricity regulation
signal.
[0070] Embodiment Employing Electricity Reception Device 20
Installed to or at Master Indoor Unit 400
[0071] The electricity reception device 20 may be installed to or
at a master indoor unit (more particularly, the electricity
reception device 20 may be connected to a point denoted by P1).
With this embodiment, the electricity reception device 20 may be
integrated with the master indoor unit, or may be separate from the
master indoor unit and function only to transmit a level signal to
the master indoor unit.
[0072] The air conditioner according to embodiments may include a
plurality of indoor units 200, and the plurality of indoor units
200 may include a master indoor unit and a plurality of indoor
slave units connected to the master indoor unit.
[0073] The master indoor unit may be directly connected to the
outdoor unit 400. The master indoor unit may include or not include
the indoor slave units under its command; however, embodiments are
not limited thereto. When the master indoor unit is connected to
the indoor slave units, the master indoor unit may output a signal
to control operation of the indoor slave units.
[0074] With this embodiment, when the master indoor unit receives a
level signal, the master indoor unit may adjust a set flow rate,
that is, a set amount of air to be discharged from the master
indoor unit, or a set temperature, that is, a set target air
conditioning temperature of indoor air acquired by the master
indoor unit based on the level of an electricity regulation signal.
This will be described below in more detail with reference to FIGS.
9A-9C and 10.
[0075] The master indoor unit, which has received the level signal,
may control operation of the indoor slave units based on the level
of the electricity regulation signal. The master indoor unit may
first determine an operating direction of the indoor slaves units,
and thereafter transmit control information, such as a control
instruction, based on the operating direction to the indoor slave
units.
[0076] The master indoor unit may individually control operation of
at least one indoor slave unit. The master indoor unit may
prioritize the plurality of indoor slave units, and determine
whether or not each of the indoor slave units will be operated
based on the priorities. A number of priorities may correspond with
a number of levels of an electricity regulation signal.
[0077] Assuming that the master indoor unit defines a first
priority, a second priority, and a third priority, a plurality of
indoor slave units may correspond to each of the first priority,
the second priority, and the third priority. That is, with the
plurality of indoor slave units, two or more indoor slave units may
correspond to the first priority, two or more indoor slave units
may correspond to the second priority, and two or more indoor slave
units may correspond to the third priority; however, the number of
indoor slave units is not limited thereto. As occasion demands,
only the master indoor unit may be set to the first priority and
the indoor slave units may be set to the second priority or below;
however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0078] Explaining this embodiment in more detail, assuming that
three indoor slave units are connected to a master indoor unit and
the level of an electricity regulation signal is the first level,
the master indoor unit may transmit a power-off signal to all of
the indoor slave units and may stop operation thereof.
[0079] When the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
second level, the master indoor unit may transmit a power-off
signal to the other indoor slave units except for an indoor slave
unit corresponding to the first priority. For example, when only
the master indoor unit corresponds to the first priority, the
master indoor unit may power all of the indoor slave units off
while continuing operation thereof.
[0080] When the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
third level, the master indoor unit may transmit a power-off signal
to the other indoor slave units except for the master indoor unit
corresponding to the first priority and an indoor slave unit or
units corresponding to the second priority. This control operation
may vary based on the number of the master indoor unit and indoor
slave units, and thus, may not be commonly applied to all
embodiments.
[0081] Embodiment Employing Electricity Reception Device 20
Installed to or at Indoor Slave Unit 200
[0082] The electricity reception device 20 may be installed to or
at any one indoor slave unit (more particularly, the electricity
reception device may be connected to a point denoted by P2). In
this embodiment, the electricity reception device 20 may be
integrated with the indoor slave unit, or may be separate from the
indoor slave unit and function only to transmit a level signal to
the indoor slave unit.
[0083] When the electricity reception device 20 is installed to or
at the indoor slave unit, or is adapted to transmit a level signal
to the indoor slave unit, the indoor slave unit, which has received
a level signal, may adjust a set flow rate, that is, a set amount
of air to be discharged from the indoor slave unit, or a set
temperature, that is, a set target air conditioning temperature of
indoor air acquired by the indoor slave unit based on the level of
an electricity regulation signal. This embodiment will be described
below in more detail with reference to FIGS. 9A-9C and 10.
[0084] The indoor unit 200 in accordance with this embodiment may
include an expansion valve (not shown) that expands refrigerant
supplied from the outdoor unit 400 connected thereto, an indoor
heat exchanger, such as indoor heat exchanger 235 of FIG. 2, that
implements heat exchange heat between air and refrigerant, an
indoor fan, such as indoor fan 230 of FIG. 2, that allows indoor
air to be introduced into the indoor heat exchanger and
heat-exchanged air to be discharged into a room, a plurality of
sensors (not shown), and a controller (not shown) that controls
operation of the indoor unit 200.
[0085] The indoor unit 200 may have a discharge port (not shown),
through which the heat-exchanged air may be discharged, and may
further include a flow direction regulator (not shown), which may
open or close the discharge port and control a flow direction of
air discharged from the indoor unit 200. The indoor unit 200 may
adjust a flow rate of air by controlling revolutions per minute of
an indoor unit fan to control suction and discharge of air.
[0086] The plurality of indoor units 200 may be individually
connected to the remote controller 60 to receive a control signal
and be operated in response to the control signal. Each of the
indoor units 200 may implement wireless or wired communication with
the remote controller 60. The indoor unit 200 may include an indoor
communication unit, such as indoor communication unit 226 of FIG.
5, to communicate with the remote controller 60 in a wired or
wireless manner. When the indoor unit 200 receives a control signal
from the remote controller 60, the indoor unit 200 may inform the
remote controller 60 of successful reception of the control signal;
however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0087] The indoor unit 200 may transmit a signal indicating an
operating state to the remote controller 60. When the indoor unit
200 undergoes variation in terms of On or Off or variation in an
operating state thereof, the indoor unit 200 may transmit a signal
indicating this variation to the remote controller 60. The indoor
unit 200 may communicate with the remote controller 60 upon
occurrence of an event or at a constant interval.
[0088] The indoor unit 200 may receive an electricity regulation
signal from the outdoor unit 400. The indoor unit 200 may adjust a
set flow rate, that is, a set amount of air to be discharged from
the indoor unit 200, or a set temperature, that is, a set target
air conditioning temperature of indoor air acquired by the indoor
unit 200 based on the level of an electricity regulation signal.
For example, the electricity regulation signal may have any one of
the first level, the second level, and the third level, and the
indoor unit 200 may raise or lower a set flow rate or a set
temperature based on the level of the electricity regulation
signal.
[0089] The indoor unit 200 may store information regarding a
regulation criterion of a set flow rate or a set temperature based
on the level of an electricity regulation signal. For example, the
indoor unit 200 may store a table that shows a set flow rate or a
set temperature based on the level of an electricity regulation
signal; however, the storage method is not limited thereto.
[0090] The indoor unit 200 may transmit an electricity regulation
signal to the portable terminal 50 that can read out information.
The indoor unit 200 may transmit an electricity regulation signal
to the portable terminal 50 to allow a user to easily check an
operating state of the air conditioner.
[0091] The portable terminal 50 may communicate with the indoor
unit 200. The portable terminal 50 may receive an electricity
regulation signal from the indoor unit 200. The portable terminal
50 may receive information regarding operation of the air
conditioner 30 from the indoor unit 200.
[0092] The air conditioner 30 may include the remote controller 60.
The remote controller 60 may control the plurality of indoor units
200, respectively. The remote controller 60 may change an operation
mode of the indoor unit 200. The operation mode may include a
cooling mode, a dehumidification mode, an air purification mode,
and a heating mode, for example.
[0093] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an outdoor unit and an
indoor unit included in an air conditioner in accordance with an
embodiment. Referring to FIG. 5, the air conditioner 30 may include
outdoor unit 400 and at least one indoor unit 200. The outdoor unit
400 may include a compressor 410 that implements heat exchange of
refrigerant delivered from the indoor unit 200, and an outdoor unit
processor 424 that controls operation of the compressor 410 in
response to an electricity regulation signal.
[0094] The processor 424 may implement a variety of functions for
the outdoor unit 400, and may execute or implement sets of
instructions and/or various software programs stored in an outdoor
unit memory 422 for data processing. The outdoor unit processor 424
may process a signal based on information stored in the outdoor
unit memory 422.
[0095] An electricity reception device 420 may serve to receive
power from an external power source, and to extract an electricity
regulation signal from the received power, the electricity
regulation signal providing information regarding usage of
electricity. The electricity reception device 420 may include an
electricity device that receives power from an electric power
company and extracts an electricity regulation signal from the
power, and a switching circuit that converts the electricity
regulation signal into a level signal that the air conditioner can
recognize.
[0096] The electricity device and the switching circuit may be
separate from each other; however, embodiments are not limited
thereto. For example, the outdoor unit 400 may include the
switching circuit of the electricity reception device 420. The
electricity device may function to supply power to a power source
unit or power source 428.
[0097] Although FIG. 5 illustrates the electricity reception device
420 as being included in the outdoor unit 400 to allow the outdoor
unit processor 424 to directly receive a level signal from the
electricity reception device 420; however, embodiments are not
limited thereto. According to embodiments, the outdoor unit 400 may
not include the electricity reception device 420, may receive only
a level signal from the electricity reception device 420, or may be
not connected to the electricity reception device 420.
[0098] The outdoor unit processor 424 may receive a level signal
from the electricity reception device 420. The outdoor unit
processor 424 may check the level of an electricity regulation
signal from the level signal. The outdoor unit processor 424 may
control operation of the compressor 410 based on the level of the
electricity regulation signal.
[0099] The outdoor unit 400 may include the compressor 410 to
compress refrigerant. Assuming that the compressor 410 is an
inverter type compressor, the outdoor unit processor 424 may adjust
an operation frequency of the compressor 410 in response to an
electricity regulation signal. Assuming that the compressor 410 is
a constant-speed type compressor that continuously compresses
refrigerant at a constant speed, the outdoor unit processor 424 may
determine whether to power the compressor 410 on or off based on an
electricity regulation signal.
[0100] When the outdoor unit processor 424 receives a level signal,
the outdoor unit processor 424 may check required electricity
consumption designated by the electricity regulation signal. For
example, the electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. The outdoor unit processor 424 may check the level
of the electricity regulation signal, thereby checking required
electricity consumption.
[0101] The outdoor unit processor 424 may control an operating
state of the air conditioner based on the level of the electricity
regulation signal, to conform to the required electricity
consumption. For example, the outdoor unit processor 424 may adjust
an operation frequency of the compressor 410 based on the required
electricity consumption.
[0102] The outdoor unit processor 424 may check the level of the
electricity regulation signal from the level signal. The outdoor
unit processor 424 may check the required electricity consumption
based on the level of the electricity regulation signal.
[0103] An electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. The outdoor unit processor 424 may implement a
control operation to adjust electricity consumption of the outdoor
unit 400 based on the level of an electricity regulation signal.
For example, the outdoor unit processor 424 may adjust electricity
consumption of the outdoor unit 400 by adjusting an operation
frequency of the compressor 410.
[0104] The outdoor unit processor 424 may control operation of the
compressor 410 in response to an electricity regulation signal.
Assuming that the compressor 410 is an inverter type compressor,
the outdoor unit processor 424 may adjust electricity consumption
by adjusting an operation frequency of the compressor 410 based on
the level of an electricity regulation signal.
[0105] For example, when the electricity regulation signal has the
first level, the outdoor unit processor 424 may power the
compressor 410 off. When the electricity regulation signal has the
second level, the outdoor unit processor 424 may reduce an
operation frequency of the compressor 410 to approximately 50%.
When the electricity regulation signal has the third level, the
outdoor unit processor 424 may reduce an operation frequency of the
compressor 410 to approximately 75%.
[0106] When the outdoor unit processor 424 receives an electricity
regulation signal, the outdoor unit processor 424 may implement an
operation to adjust electricity consumption for a predetermined
period of time. For example, when the outdoor unit processor 424
receives an electricity regulation signal, the outdoor unit
processor 424 may implement an operation to adjust electricity
consumption for a predetermined period of time of approximately 30
minutes. After implementing the operation to adjust electricity
consumption for the predetermined period of time, the outdoor unit
processor 424 may return to normal operation.
[0107] For example, when the electricity regulation signal has the
first level, the outdoor unit processor 424 may power the
compressor 410 off within at least approximately 60 seconds. When
the electricity regulation signal has the second level, the outdoor
unit processor 424 may reduce an operation frequency of the
compressor 410 to approximately 50% for at least approximately 30
minutes. When the electricity regulation signal has the third
level, the outdoor unit processor 424 may reduce an operation
frequency of the compressor 410 to approximately 75% for at least
approximately 30 minutes.
[0108] When the outdoor unit 400 includes the electricity reception
device 420 or receives a level signal from the electricity
reception device 420, the outdoor unit processor 424 may
differently control operation of a plurality of indoor units 200
connected to the outdoor unit 400. The outdoor unit processor 424
may differently control operation of the respective indoor units
200 in response to an electricity regulation signal. The outdoor
unit processor 424 may prioritize the plurality of indoor units
200, and determine whether or not each of the indoor units 200 will
be operated based on the priorities.
[0109] The outdoor unit processor 424 may adjust the number of
indoor units to be operated among the indoor units 200 based on the
level of an electricity regulation signal. The outdoor unit
processor 424 may increase the number of indoor units 200 to be
operated as the level of an electricity regulation signal
increases.
[0110] The outdoor unit processor 424 may output control
information indicating required electricity consumption. The
outdoor unit processor 424 may output control information to
outdoor unit communication unit or device 426. The control
information may include currently required electricity consumption,
information regarding an operating state of the compressor 410 of
the outdoor unit 400, or an instruction to power the indoor unit
200 on or off. The outdoor unit processor 424 may allow the outdoor
unit communication unit 426 to transmit information regarding a
current operation frequency of the compressor 410 or information
regarding whether or not the compressor 410 is being operated to
the indoor unit 200.
[0111] For example, when three indoor units 200 are connected to
the outdoor unit 400 and the level of an electricity regulation
signal is the first level, the outdoor unit processor 424 may
transmit a power-off signal to all of the indoor units 200. When
the level of an electricity regulation signal is the second level,
the outdoor unit processor 424 may transmit a power-off signal to
the other indoor units 200 except for the indoor unit 200
corresponding to the first priority. When the level of an
electricity regulation signal is the third level, the outdoor unit
processor 424 may transmit a power-off signal to the other indoor
unit 200 except for the indoor units 200 corresponding respectively
to the first priority and the second priority. This control
operation may vary based on the number of indoor units 200, and
thus, is not commonly applied to all of the embodiments.
[0112] The outdoor unit memory 422 may include a high-speed random
access memory. The outdoor unit memory 422 may include more than
one non-volatile memory, such as a magnetic disc storage device, a
flash memory device, or other non-volatile virtual memory devices;
however, embodiments are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the
outdoor unit memory 422 may include a readable storage medium.
[0113] For example, the outdoor unit memory 422 may include an
Electronically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM);
however, embodiments are not limited thereto. The EEPROM may allow
recording and elimination of information by the outdoor unit
processor 424 during operation of the outdoor unit processor 424.
The EEPROM may be a memory device in which stored information
remains even when power of the outdoor unit 400 is switched off to
stop supply of electricity.
[0114] The outdoor unit memory 422 may be linked to the outdoor
unit processor 424 to store various programs, or data, for example.
The outdoor unit memory 422 may store programs that check the level
of an electricity regulation signal and required electricity
consumption when the outdoor unit 400 receives a level signal,
control an operating state to conform to the required electricity
consumption, and output control information for the required
electricity consumption to a communication device. The programs may
be used to control operation of the outdoor unit 400 or the indoor
units 200. The programs may check required electricity consumption
designated by an electricity regulation signal. The programs may
adjust an operation frequency of the compressor 410 of the outdoor
unit 400, or may control operation of the indoor units 200 based on
the required electricity consumption, thereby adjusting electricity
consumption of the air conditioner.
[0115] All of the programs may be stored in the indoor unit memory
222 or the outdoor unit memory 422; however, embodiments are not
limited thereto. An embodiment in which the programs are stored in
the indoor unit memory 222 will be described hereinbelow in detail
with reference to FIG. 6.
[0116] The electricity reception device 420 may receive power from
an external power source. The electricity reception device 420 may
extract an electricity regulation signal from the power. The
electricity reception device 420 may be a receiver for power line
communication. The power line communication may mean communication
using a signal having a different frequency from that of power to
be applied to the electronic appliance.
[0117] The electricity reception device 420 may extract an
electricity reception signal from power transmitted thereto, and
transmit the electricity reception signal to the outdoor unit
processor 424. The electricity reception device 420 may transmit
the power remaining after extraction of the electricity reception
signal to the power source unit 428. The power source unit 428 may
convert the power received from the electricity reception device
420 into direct current to supply the same to the outdoor unit
processor 424; however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0118] The outdoor unit communication unit 426 may communicate with
the indoor units 200, or a portable terminal, upon receiving an
instruction from the outdoor unit processor 424. The outdoor unit
communication unit 426 may be connected to the outdoor unit
processor 424. The outdoor unit communication unit 426 may receive
a signal transmitted from the outdoor unit processor 424. The
outdoor unit communication unit 426 may transmit a signal generated
by the outdoor unit processor 424 to the indoor units 200 or the
portable terminal; however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
The outdoor unit communication unit 426 may transmit information
regarding the electricity regulation signal and an operating manner
of the compressor 410 to the indoor units 200.
[0119] The outdoor unit communication unit 426 may implement
wired/wireless communication. When the outdoor unit communication
unit 426 implements wireless communication, the outdoor unit
communication unit 426 may include a Radio Frequency (RF) circuit.
The outdoor unit communication unit 426 may transmit and receive an
RF signal as an electromagnetic signal. The RF circuit may
implement inter-conversion between an electrical signal and an
electromagnetic signal, and may communicate with a communication
network and other communication devices via the electromagnetic
signal.
[0120] For example, the RF circuit may include an antenna system,
an RF transmitter/receiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or
more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a CODEC chipset, and
a memory, for example; however, embodiments are not limited
thereto. In addition, the RF circuit may include a known circuit to
implement the aforementioned functions.
[0121] The outdoor unit 400 in accordance with one embodiment may
include the compressor 410 that compresses refrigerant, a
compressor motor that drives the compressor 410, an outdoor heat
exchanger, such as outdoor heat exchanger 435 of FIG. 2, that
radiates heat from the compressed refrigerant, an outdoor blowing
unit or blower including an outdoor fan, such as outdoor fan 430 of
FIG. 2, disposed at one side of the outdoor heat exchanger to
facilitate radiation of the refrigerant and a motor to rotate the
outdoor fan, an expansion device, such as expansion device 440 of
FIG. 2, that expands condensed refrigerant, a cooling/heating
switching valve that changes a flow path of the compressed
refrigerant, and an accumulator that temporarily stores gas-phase
refrigerant and supplies constant-pressure refrigerant to the
compressor after removal of moisture and impurities from the
refrigerant. The outdoor unit 400 may further include a plurality
of sensors, valves, and an overcooling device, for example;
however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0122] Referring to FIG. 5 illustrating indoor unit 200 in block
diagram, the indoor unit 200 may include indoor unit processor 224
that implements a variety of signal processing and calculations,
indoor unit memory 222 linked to the indoor unit processor 224 that
stores programs, or data, for example, a display 245 that receives
a control signal from the indoor unit processor 224 and displays
information, and indoor unit communication unit 226 that may
communicate with the outdoor unit 400, for example.
[0123] Although FIG. 5 illustrates a configuration in which the
electricity reception device 420 is included in the outdoor unit
400 such that the outdoor unit processor 424 directly receives a
level signal from the electricity reception device 420; however,
embodiments are not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the
indoor unit 200 may include an electricity reception device, or may
directly receive an electricity regulation signal or a level signal
from the electricity reception device.
[0124] The indoor unit processor 224 may implement a variety of
functions for the indoor unit 200, and may execute or implement
sets of instructions and/or various software programs stored in the
indoor unit memory 222 for data processing. The indoor unit
processor 224 may process a signal based on information stored in
the indoor unit memory 224. The indoor unit memory 222 may be
linked to the indoor unit processor 224 and store a variety of
programs, or data, for example.
[0125] According to embodiments, the indoor unit processor 224 may
receive a level signal from the outdoor unit 400 or the electricity
reception device 420. For example, the indoor unit processor 224
may receive a level signal through the indoor unit communication
unit 226; however, embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0126] The indoor unit processor 224 may implement various control
operations based on a received level signal, electricity reception
signal, or control information. The indoor unit processor 224 may
control a set temperature or a set flow rate based on the level of
an electricity regulation signal. For example, the indoor unit
processor 224 may set a temperature closer to an outdoor
temperature or may lower a set flow rate as the level of an
electricity regulation signal increases.
[0127] The indoor unit processor 224 may transmit an electricity
regulation signal to the portable terminal via the indoor unit
communication unit 226. In another embodiment, the indoor unit
processor 224 may transmit an electricity regulation signal to a
server via the indoor unit communication unit 226 and allow the
portable terminal 50 to receive the electricity regulation signal
from the server; however, the role of the indoor unit processor 224
is not limited to an intermediary. The indoor unit processor 224
may transmit information regarding a current operating state of the
air conditioner 30 to the portable terminal 50 via the indoor unit
communication unit 226.
[0128] The indoor unit processor 224 may control operation of the
indoor unit 200 based on control information. The control
information may include, for example, information regarding a
control instruction of the outdoor unit or the master indoor unit,
the level of an electricity regulation signal, required electricity
consumption, or an operating state of the compressor of the outdoor
unit.
[0129] The indoor unit processor 224 may adjust a set flow rate or
a set temperature, or may change operation of the respective indoor
units upon receiving the control information.
[0130] The indoor unit processor 224 may control a set temperature
or a set flow rate based on information regarding an operating
state of the compressor 410 of the outdoor unit 400. For example,
the indoor unit processor 224 may maintain a set temperature or a
set flow rate when an operation frequency of the compressor 410
becomes lower than an operation frequency before the outdoor unit
400 receives an electricity regulation signal; however, embodiments
are not limited thereto.
[0131] For example, when reduction of electricity consumption
acquired via reduction in an operation frequency of the compressor
410 of the outdoor unit 400 sufficiently satisfies a requirement of
an electricity regulation signal, the indoor unit processor 224 may
maintain a set temperature or a set flow rate of the indoor unit
200. On the other hand, for example, when reduction of electricity
consumption acquired via reduction in an operation frequency of the
compressor 410 of the outdoor unit 200 does not satisfy a
requirement of an electricity regulation signal, the indoor unit
processor 224 may control a set temperature of the indoor unit 200
so as to be close to an outdoor temperature, or may reduce a set
flow rate of the indoor unit 200.
[0132] When the indoor unit processor 224 receives an electricity
regulation signal, the indoor unit processor 224 may implement an
operation to adjust electricity consumption for a predetermined
period of time. For example, when the indoor unit processor 224
receives an electricity regulation signal, the indoor unit
processor 224 may implement an operation to adjust electricity
consumption for a predetermined period of time of approximately 30
minutes. The indoor unit processor 224 may return to normal
operation after implementing the operation to adjust electricity
consumption for the predetermined time.
[0133] Assuming that the indoor unit 200 is a master indoor unit
having one or more indoor slave units, the indoor unit processor
224 may implement control of the indoor slave units. For example,
the indoor unit processor 224 may adjust a set temperature or a set
flow rate of the indoor slave units, or may determine whether or
not each indoor slave unit will be operated. The indoor unit
processor 224 may prioritize the indoor slave units, and control
operation of the indoor slave units based on the priorities.
[0134] The indoor unit memory 222 may include a high-speed random
access memory. The indoor unit memory 222 may include more than one
non-volatile memory, such as a magnetic disc storage device, a
flash memory device, or other non-volatile virtual memory devices;
however, embodiments are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the
indoor unit memory 222 may include a readable storage medium.
[0135] The indoor unit memory 222 may store programs. The programs
may check required electricity consumption by analyzing an
electricity regulation signal or a level signal. The programs may
check required electricity consumption by checking the level of an
electricity regulation signal. The required electricity consumption
may vary per regulation of each country. For example, electricity
consumption may be zero when the level of an electricity regulation
signal is the first level, may be reduced to approximately 75% when
the level of an electricity regulation signal is the second level,
and may be reduced to approximately 50% when the level of an
electricity regulation signal is the third level; however,
embodiments are not limited thereto
[0136] The programs may set a flow rate, that is, a set amount of
air to be discharged from the indoor unit 200 or a set target air
conditioning temperature of indoor air acquired by the indoor unit
200 based on control information or an electricity regulation
signal. The indoor unit memory 222 may store information regarding
a regulation criterion of a set flow rate or a set temperature
based on the level of an electricity regulation signal. For
example, the indoor unit memory 222 may store information regarding
multiple stages of a set flow rate or a set temperature, defined to
correspond to multiple levels of an electricity regulation
signal.
[0137] The indoor unit 200 may include an output device to display
information, or an input device to receive information; however,
embodiments are not limited thereto. The output device may include
a speaker to output sound, or display 245 to visually display
information via emission of light. The input device may include
physical buttons, dials, slider switches, clock wheels, and other
devices that may receive an external input. The display 245 may
include at least one of a light emitting polymer display, a liquid
crystal display, a thin film transistor liquid crystal display, an
organic light emitting diode display, a flexible display, and a 3D
display, but it will be appreciated that various other displays may
be used.
[0138] The display 245 may display operating information of the
indoor unit 200. For example, the display 245 may display an
operating mode, such as a cooling mode, a heating mode, a
dehumidification mode, or an air purification mode, and may display
an indoor temperature, a flow direction, the presence of an indoor
heat source, but items to be displayed are not limited thereto, and
broad information required for control may be displayed.
[0139] According to embodiments, the display 245 may include a
touchscreen that displays visual output to the user and receives
tactile input from the user; however, embodiments are not limited
thereto. The display 245 may display an electricity regulation
signal and set items that are variable based on the electricity
regulation signal. The display 245 may display a set flow rate or a
set temperature to be varied by an electricity regulation signal.
The display 245 may display that the indoor unit 200 or the outdoor
unit 400 is being controlled in response to an electricity
regulation signal.
[0140] The indoor unit communication unit 226 may be connected to
the indoor unit processor 224. The indoor unit communication unit
226 may receive a signal transmitted from the indoor unit processor
224. The indoor unit communication unit 226 may transmit a signal
generated by the indoor unit processor 224 to the outdoor unit 400,
the remote controller, or the portable terminal; however,
embodiments are not limited thereto.
[0141] The indoor unit communication unit 226 may receive control
information. The control information may include required
electricity consumption or information regarding an operating state
of a compressor of the outdoor unit 200.
[0142] The indoor unit communication unit 226 may transmit an
electricity regulation signal to the portable terminal. The indoor
unit communication unit 226 may transmit control information
changed in response to an electricity regulation signal to the
portable terminal. The indoor unit communication unit 226 may
receive an electricity regulation signal and a signal indicating an
operating state of the compressor from the outdoor unit 400. The
indoor unit communication unit 226 may receive a power on/off
signal from the outdoor unit 400.
[0143] The indoor unit communication unit 226 may be connected to
the outdoor unit communication unit 426 in a wired or wireless
manner. The indoor unit communication unit 226 may transmit and
receive various signals to and from the outdoor unit communication
unit 426. The indoor unit communication unit 226 may receive an
electricity regulation signal, or a level signal, for example, from
the outdoor unit communication unit 426.
[0144] FIGS. 6 and 7A-7C are schematic diagrams illustrating a
method of controlling an indoor unit by an outdoor unit of an air
conditioner in accordance with an embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 6
and 7, the outdoor unit 400 may prioritize the plurality of indoor
units 200, respectively.
[0145] The outdoor unit 400 may individually control operation of
the plurality of indoor units 200. The outdoor unit 400 may
prioritize the plurality of indoor units 200, and determine whether
or not each indoor unit 200 will be operated based on the
priorities.
[0146] Assuming that the outdoor unit 400 defines the first
priority, the second priority, and the third priority, a plurality
of indoor units 200 may correspond to each of the first priority,
the second priority, and the third priority. That is, with a
plurality of indoor units 200, two or more indoor units may
correspond to the first priority, two or more indoor units may
correspond to the second priority, and two or more indoor units may
correspond to the third priority.
[0147] Referring to FIG. 7A, when three indoor units 200 are
connected to the outdoor unit 400 and the level of an electricity
regulation signal is the first level, the processor 424 may
transmit a power-off signal to all of the indoor units 200.
Referring to FIG. 7B, when the level of an electricity regulation
signal is the second level, the processor 424 may transmit a
power-off signal to the other indoor units 200 except for the
indoor unit 400 corresponding to the first priority.
[0148] Referring to FIG. 7C, when the level of an electricity
regulation signal is the third level, the processor 424 may
transmit a power-off signal to the other indoor unit 200 except for
the indoor units 200 corresponding to the first priority and the
second priority. This control operation may vary based on the
number of the master indoor unit and the indoor slave units, and
thus is not commonly applied to all of the embodiments.
[0149] FIGS. 8 and 9A-9C are schematic diagrams illustrating an
indoor unit of an air conditioner and a display operation of the
indoor unit in accordance with an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8,
the indoor unit 200 may receive an electricity regulation signal
from the outdoor unit 400 or an electricity reception device (not
shown).
[0150] The indoor unit 200 may adjust a set flow rate, that is, a
set amount of air to be discharged from the indoor unit, or a set
temperature, that is, a set target air conditioning temperature of
indoor air acquired by the indoor unit based on the level of an
electricity regulation signal. The indoor unit 200 may store
information regarding a regulation criterion of a set flow rate or
a set temperature based on the level of an electricity regulation
signal.
[0151] The indoor unit 200 may adjust a set flow rate or a set
temperature based on information regarding multiple stages of a set
flow rate or a set temperature, defined to correspond to multiple
levels of an electricity regulation signal. For example, an
electricity regulation signal may have any one of the first level,
the second level, or the third level, and the indoor unit 200 may
raise or lower a set flow rate or a set temperature based on the
level of the electricity regulation signal.
[0152] The indoor unit 200 may display various pieces of
information on the display 245. The indoor unit 200 may display a
set temperature and a set flow rate, denoted by B, and a level of
an electricity regulation signal, denoted by A, on the display
245.
[0153] The indoor unit 200 may store information regarding a
regulation criterion of a set flow rate or a set temperature based
on the level of an electricity regulation signal. For example, the
indoor unit 200 may store a table that shows a set flow rate or a
set temperature based on the level of an electricity regulation
signal, but a storage method is not limited thereto.
[0154] For example, referring to FIG. 7C, when the indoor unit 200
implements a cooling operation and the level of an electricity
regulation signal is the third level (DRM 3), a set flow rate may
be limited to a medium flow rate or less, and a set temperature may
be limited to approximately 22.degree. C. or more. Referring to
FIG. 7B, when the indoor unit 200 implements a cooling operation
and the level of an electricity regulation signal is the second
level (DRM 2), a set flow rate may be limited to a low flow rate,
and a set temperature may be limited to approximately 24.degree. C.
or more. In addition, referring to FIG. 7A, when the indoor unit
200 implements a cooling operation and the level of an electricity
regulation signal is the first level (DRM 1), operation may
stop.
[0155] As described above, the display 245 of the indoor unit 200
may display the level of an electricity regulation signal, a set
temperature, and a set flow rate to allow the user to
simultaneously or separately check these items.
[0156] The aforementioned control values of the indoor unit 200 per
the level of an electricity regulation signal are merely one
embodiment for explanation, and may vary according to
embodiments.
[0157] Although FIGS. 8 and 9 show the level of an electricity
regulation signal denoted by "DRM", this is merely one embodiment,
and display methods or devices are not limited to the description
and illustration.
[0158] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling
an air conditioner in accordance with an embodiment. Referring to
FIG. 10, a method of controlling an air conditioner in accordance
with an embodiment may include receiving an electricity regulation
signal that provides information regarding usage of electricity
(S510), outputting a level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal (S520), and implementing an
operation, by an outdoor unit or an indoor unit, to adjust
electricity consumption thereof and electricity consumption of the
indoor unit or the outdoor unit connected thereto based on the
level of the electricity regulation signal (S530).
[0159] Upon reception of the electricity regulation signal (S510),
the air conditioner may receive the electricity regulation signal
from an electricity reception device. For example, the outdoor unit
or the indoor unit of the air conditioner may receive the
electricity regulation signal from the electricity reception
device. The electricity reception device may be installed to the
outdoor unit or the indoor unit, or may be a separate
component.
[0160] Power supplied by an electric power company may include an
electricity regulation signal having a different frequency from
that of the power. The electricity reception device may extract the
electricity regulation signal from the power.
[0161] Upon output of the level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal (S520), the electricity reception
device may transmit the level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal to the outdoor unit or the indoor
unit.
[0162] A processor of the outdoor unit or the indoor unit may check
required electricity consumption by checking the level of the
electricity regulation signal. The required electricity consumption
may indicate a requirement for reduction of electricity consumption
in percent, or a requirement for reduction of electricity
consumption to a given value or less, without being limited
thereto.
[0163] Based on the level of the electricity regulation signal, an
outdoor unit or an indoor unit of the air conditioner may implement
an operation to adjust electricity consumption thereof, and
electricity consumption of the indoor unit or the outdoor unit
connected thereto. For example, when an object that receives an
electricity regulation signal is an outdoor unit of the air
conditioner and the outdoor unit has an inverter type compressor,
the outdoor unit may adjust an operation frequency of the
compressor in response to the electricity regulation signal. Upon
implementation of the operation (S530), when the outdoor unit
includes a constant-speed type compressor that continuously
compresses refrigerant at a constant speed, whether to power the
compressor on or off may be determined in response to the
electricity regulation signal.
[0164] The electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. Upon implementation of the operation (S530), an
operation frequency of the compressor may be adjusted based on
required electricity consumption. For example, when the outdoor
unit includes an inverter type compressor, the processor of the
outdoor unit may adjust an operation frequency of the compressor
based on the required electricity consumption, thereby adjusting
electricity consumption of the air conditioner.
[0165] The electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. Upon implementation of the operation (S530), when
an object that receives an electricity regulation signal is the
outdoor unit, an operation frequency of the compressor may be
adjusted based on the level of the electricity regulation signal.
For example, when the electricity regulation signal has the first
level, the processor of the outdoor unit may power the compressor
off. When the electricity regulation signal has the second level,
the processor of the outdoor unit may reduce an operation frequency
of the compressor to approximately 50%. When the electricity
regulation signal has the third level, the processor of the outdoor
unit may reduce an operation frequency of the compressor to
approximately 75%.
[0166] Upon implementation of the operation (S530), the outdoor
unit or the indoor unit may return to normal operation after
implementing the operation to adjust electricity consumption for
the predetermined time.
[0167] The outdoor unit may prioritize a plurality of indoor units.
Upon implementation of the operation (S530), the outdoor unit may
determine whether or not each of the indoor units will be operated
based on the priorities. Control information may include
information regarding the priorities in terms of operation of the
indoor units determined by the outdoor unit.
[0168] The electricity regulation signal may have any one of
multiple levels. The outdoor unit may differently control operation
of the respective indoor units. The number of indoor units to be
operated among the plurality of indoor units may be determined
based on the level of the electricity regulation signal.
[0169] When three indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit
and the level of an electricity regulation signal is the first
level, the processor of the outdoor unit may transmit a signal to
power all of the indoor units off.
[0170] When the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
second level, the processor of the outdoor unit may transmit a
power-off signal to the other indoor units except for the indoor
unit corresponding to the first priority. When the level of an
electricity regulation signal is the third level, the processor of
the outdoor unit may transmit a power-off signal to the other
indoor unit except for the indoor units corresponding to the first
priority and the second priority. This control operation may vary
based on the number of indoor units, and is not commonly applied to
all embodiments.
[0171] Upon implementation of the operation S530, operation of the
indoor units may be controlled based on control information. For
example, the outdoor unit or a master indoor unit may output
control information to control the indoor units connected
thereto.
[0172] When a subject that outputs control information is the
outdoor unit, the outdoor unit may provide the indoor units with
information regarding a current operating state of the compressor,
and the indoor units may check an amount of electricity that must
be additionally reduced at present.
[0173] Each of the indoor unit may adjust a set flow rate, that is,
a set amount of air to be discharged from the indoor unit, or a set
temperature, that is, a set target air conditioning temperature of
indoor air acquired by the indoor unit based on control
information.
[0174] The indoor unit may control a set flow rate or a set
temperature based on information regarding multiple stages of a set
flow rate or a set temperature corresponding to multiple levels of
an electricity regulation signal.
[0175] For example, when the indoor unit implements a cooling
operation and the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
third level, a set flow rate may be limited to a medium flow rate
or less, and a set temperature may be limited to approximately
22.degree. C. or more. When the indoor unit implements a cooling
operation and the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
second level, a set flow rate may be limited to a low flow rate,
and a set temperature may be limited to approximately 24.degree. C.
or more. In addition, when the indoor unit implements a cooling
operation and the level of an electricity regulation signal is the
first level, operation may stop.
[0176] Whether or not each indoor unit will be operated may be
determined based on control information. Each of a plurality of
indoor units may be differently operated in response to an
electricity regulation signal. Thus, each of the plurality of
indoor units may be operated or may not be operated based on
information regarding whether or not each indoor unit will be
operated, this information being determined by the outdoor unit. In
addition, an operation degree of each indoor unit may be determined
based on control information.
[0177] For example, assuming that the outdoor unit includes a
constant-speed type compressor, the air conditioner may adjust
electricity consumption by adjusting a set temperature or a set
flow rate of each indoor unit. The outdoor unit or the indoor unit,
which receives an electricity regulation signal, may have different
operating directions based on total electricity consumption of a
plurality of outdoor units and a plurality of indoor units
connected to one another.
[0178] Upon implementation of the operation (S530), the outdoor
unit or the indoor unit, which receives a level signal or an
electricity regulation signal, may adjust electricity consumption
thereof by controlling rotation of a fan.
[0179] Upon implementation of the operation (S530), a plurality of
indoor units may include a master indoor unit and a plurality of
indoor slave units connected to the master indoor unit. When the
master indoor unit receives a level signal or an electricity
regulation signal, the master indoor unit may control operation of
the plurality of indoor slave units based on the level of an
electricity regulation signal.
[0180] Although not shown, the control method of the air
conditioner in accordance with an embodiment may further include
transmitting the electricity regulation signal to a portable
terminal that can read out information. The indoor units may
transmit the electricity regulation signal to the portable terminal
that can read out information. As the indoor units transmit the
electricity regulation signal to the portable terminal, the user
may easily check an operating state of the air conditioner.
[0181] As is apparent from the above description, according to
embodiments, an air conditioner may adjust electricity consumption
in response to an electricity regulation signal received from an
electric power company, which may eliminate a need for additional
user control. According to embodiments, the air conditioner may
easily adjust electricity consumption by adjusting an operation
frequency of a compressor in response to an electricity regulation
signal. In the air conditioner according to embodiments, a set
temperature or a set flow rate of each indoor unit may be adjusted
in response to an electricity regulation signal, which allows both
an outdoor unit and an indoor unit to implement efficient
adjustment of electricity consumption in response to an electricity
regulation signal. The air conditioner according to embodiments may
include an electricity reception device to output a level signal
indicating a level of an electricity regulation signal, and the
electricity reception device may be easily applied to various
outdoor units or indoor units.
[0182] In the air conditioner according to embodiments, regardless
of whether the electricity reception device to output a level
signal is applied to the outdoor unit or the indoor unit, it is
possible to assist the outdoor unit or the indoor unit in optimally
implementing an operation to adjust electricity consumption.
[0183] Although all elements constituting the embodiments are
described to be integrated into a single one or to be operated as a
single one, embodiments are not necessarily limited to such
embodiments. According to embodiments, all of the elements may be
selectively integrated into one or more and be operated as one or
more within the object and the scope.
[0184] Each of the elements may be implemented as independent
hardware. Alternatively, some or all of the elements may be
selectively combined into a computer program having a program
module performing some or all functions combined in one or more
pieces of hardware.
[0185] A plurality of codes and code segments constituting the
computer program may be easily reasoned by those skilled in the art
to which the present invention pertains. The computer program may
be stored in a computer readable media such that the computer
program is read and executed by a computer to implement embodiments
of the present invention. Computer program storage media may
include magnetic recording media, optical recording media, and
carrier wave media.
[0186] The term "comprises", "includes", or "has" described herein
should be interpreted not to exclude other elements but to further
include such other elements since the corresponding elements may be
inherent unless mentioned otherwise.
[0187] All terms including technical or scientific terms have the
same meanings as generally understood by a person having ordinary
skill in the art to which the present invention pertains unless
mentioned otherwise.
[0188] Generally used terms, such as terms defined in a dictionary,
should be interpreted to coincide with meanings of the related art
from the context. Unless obviously defined, such terms are not
interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings.
[0189] Embodiments disclosed herein provide an air conditioner
which may control electricity consumption in response to an
electricity regulation signal.
[0190] Embodiments disclosed herein provide an air conditioner that
may include an outdoor unit or device configured to implement heat
exchange of refrigerant, at least one indoor unit or device
configured to implement exchange of refrigerant with the outdoor
unit and to implement air conditioning of indoor air, and an
electricity reception device configured to receive an electricity
regulation signal indicating a level with regard to electricity
usage and to transmit a level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal to the outdoor unit or the indoor
unit. The outdoor unit or the indoor unit, which has received the
level signal, may control operation of the at least one indoor unit
connected thereto based on the level of the electricity regulation
signal.
[0191] Embodiments disclosed herein further provide a control
method of an air conditioner, including receiving an electricity
regulation signal indicating a level with regard to electricity
usage, outputting a level signal indicating the level of the
electricity regulation signal, and implementing an operation, by an
indoor unit or device or an outdoor unit or device, to adjust
electricity consumption thereof and electricity consumption of the
outdoor unit or the indoor unit connected thereto based on the
level of the electricity regulation signal.
[0192] Although embodiments have been disclosed for illustrative
purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various
modifications, additions, and substitutions are possible without
departing from the scope and spirit as disclosed in the
accompanying claims.
[0193] The embodiments disclosed herein are provided not to limit
the technical concept but to illustrate the technical concept.
Therefore, the scope of the technical concept is not limited by
such embodiments. The scope of the protection should be determined
by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims and all
technical concepts coming within the equivalency range are should
be interpreted to be embraced in the scope of the right.
[0194] Any reference in this specification to "one embodiment," "an
embodiment," "example embodiment," etc., means that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the
invention. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the
specification are not necessarily all referring to the same
embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, it
is submitted that it is within the purview of one skilled in the
art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in
connection with other ones of the embodiments.
[0195] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a
number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood
that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by
those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope
of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various
variations and modifications are possible in the component parts
and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within
the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims.
In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts
and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to
those skilled in the art.
* * * * *