Patent Description:
An air conditioner may provide a comfortable indoor environment to humans by discharging cold air to a room to adjust an indoor temperature and purify air of the room to create a pleasant indoor environment. The air conditioner may include an indoor unit including a heat exchanger and may be installed in a room. The air conditioner may also include an outdoor unit including a compressor, a heat exchanger, and the like, and the outdoor unit may supply a refrigerant to the indoor unit.

The air conditioner, in which the indoor unit including the heat exchanger and the outdoor unit including the compressor, the heat exchanger, and the like, are separately controlled, may be operated by controlling power supplied to the compressor or the heat exchanger. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit may be connected by a refrigerant pipe. Compressed refrigerant from the compressor of the outdoor unit may be supplied to the heat exchanger of the indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe. Heat-exchanged refrigerant in the indoor unit's heat exchanger may flow back into the outdoor unit's compressor through the refrigerant pipe. As a result, the indoor unit may discharge the cold or hot air into the room via the heat exchange using the refrigerant.

Air conditioners may be interconnected between buildings or interconnected in small groups. An air conditioner system may transmit and receive the data, and monitor a condition of the corresponding air conditioner based on the transmitted and received data.

Recently, more and more attempts are made for wireless communication between units, so there are increasing cases in which a wireless network is configured between not just units, such as an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a controller, etc., but also other devices, such as a mobile terminal.

When it comes to devices connected via wireless communication, it is possible to check information of the devices and control the devices without being limited to where a user and the devices are located.

However, as the number of devices connected via wireless communication is increasing, communication quality may be degraded, such as reduction in communication speed and interference, unless optimal communication channel configuration is made.

Thus, there is need of a method of allowing wirelessly connected units to set an optimal communication channel.

<CIT> relates to a communications network for air-conditioning systems, comprising a plurality of fan coils which correspond to respective wireless nodes of the network, each of the fan coils being provided with a respective wireless communications means for bidirectional communication with the other fan coils of the network and being further provided with a memory which contains instructions for exchanging messages with the nodes of the network according to a mesh-type logic by way of the wireless communications means.

The present invention provides a control method of an air conditioner system capable of setting an optimal wireless communication channel.

The present invention provides a control method of an air conditioner system capable of implementing a high-quality wireless communication environment.

The present invention provides a control method of an air conditioner system in which each unit is capable of wirelessly communicating with one another, regardless an installation environment.

In one general aspect of the present invention, the above objects can be accomplished by the provision of a control method of an air conditioner system as defined in independent claim <NUM>. Preferred aspects are defined in the dependent claims.

According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, an optimal communication channel may be set.

In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a high-quality wireless communication environment may be implemented.

In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a control method of an air conditioner system in which each unit is able to wirelessly communicate with one another regardless of an installation environmentis provided.

Meanwhile, other effects may be explicitly or implicitly disclosed in the description of the embodiments of the present invention.

While the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that the present description is not intended to limit the invention to the exemplary embodiments.

In the drawings, in order to clearly and briefly describe the invention, parts which are not related to the description will be omitted and, like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

In the following description, with respect to constituent elements used in the following description, the suffixes "module" and "unit" are used or combined with each other only in consideration of ease in the preparation of the specification, and do not have or serve as different meanings. Accordingly, the suffixes "module" and "unit" may be interchanged with each other.

<FIG> is a diagram schematically illustrating configuration in which an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a building.

Referring to <FIG>, an air conditioner system may include an outdoor unit <NUM>, an indoor unit <NUM>, and a controller <NUM>.

In addition to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, the air conditioner system may include a ventilator, an air purifier, a humidifier, a heater, etc.. and may further include other units, such as a chiller, an air conditioning unit, and a cooling tower, depending on a size of the air conditioner system. In addition, the air conditioner system may be operatively connected to a mobile device, a security device, an alarm device, etc. located in the building.

The controller <NUM> may control operation of the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> in accordance with an input user command, periodically receive and store data on corresponding operation states of the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, and output the operation states through a monitor screen. The controller <NUM> may perform operation setting, lock setting, schedule control, group control, peak control regarding power consumption, demand control, etc. of the indoor unit <NUM>.

The outdoor unit <NUM> is connected to the indoor unit <NUM> to supply refrigerant to the indoor unit <NUM>. In addition, by periodically communicating with a plurality of indoor units <NUM>, the outdoor unit <NUM> transmits and receives data with respect to the plurality of indoor units <NUM>, and changes operation in accordance with an operating setting changed through an indoor unit.

The indoor unit <NUM> may include an electronic expansion valve (not shown) for expanding refrigerant supplied from the outdoor unit <NUM>, an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) for heat-exchanging refrigerant, an indoor unit fan (not shown) for allowing indoor air to flow into the indoor heat exchanger and for allowing the heat-exchanged air to be exposed to the indoor, a plurality of sensors (not shown), and control means (not shown) for controlling the operation of the indoor unit.

The indoor unit <NUM> may include a discharge port (not shown) for discharging the heat-exchanged air. The discharge port is provided with a wind direction adjusting means (not shown) for closing the discharge port and controlling the direction of the discharged air. The indoor unit <NUM> may control the rotating speed of the indoor unit fan, thereby controlling the intake air and the air to be discharged and controlling the air flow rate. The indoor unit <NUM> may further include an output unit for displaying the operation state and setting information of the indoor unit, and an input unit for inputting the setting data. In this case, the indoor unit <NUM> may transmit setting information regarding air conditioner operation to a remote controller (not shown) connected thereto, output the information via the remote controller, and receive data.

The remote controller (not shown) is connected to the indoor unit via wired communication or wireless communication to input a user command to the indoor unit, receive data on the indoor unit, and output the received data. According to a method of connection with the indoor unit The remote controller may transmit a user command to the indoor unit and perform one-directional communication, in which data on the indoor unit is not received, or bidirectional communication, data is transmitted and received with respect to the indoor unit.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may operate in the cooling mode or the heating mode in response to data received from the indoor unit <NUM> connected thereto or a control command received from the controller, and supply refrigerant to the indoor unit connected thereto.

In the presence of a plurality of outdoor units, each outdoor unit may be connected to a plurality of indoor units, and supply refrigerant to a plurality of indoor units via a distributor.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may include at least one compressor for compressing the refrigerant and discharging the pressurized gas refrigerant, an accumulator that separates the gas refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant from the refrigerant to prevent the non-vaporized liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor, an oil collection unit for collecting oil from the refrigerant discharged from the compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger for condensing or evaporating the refrigerant via heat exchange with the outside air, an outdoor unit fan for introducing air into the outdoor heat exchanger in order to facilitate the heat exchange of the outdoor heat exchanger and for discharging the heat-exchanged air to the outside, a four-way valve that changes the refrigerant flow path according to an operation mode of the outdoor unit, at least one pressure sensor for measuring pressure, at least one temperature sensor for measuring temperature, and a control unit for controlling operation of the outdoor unit and performing communication with other units. The outdoor unit <NUM> may further include a plurality of sensors, valves, super-coolers, etc., but description thereof may be omitted below.

In addition, the air conditioner system may transmit and receive data with respect to another air conditioner via network connection such as the Internet. An air conditioner may access an external service center, a management server, a database, etc., via the controller, and may communicate with an external terminal accessing via a network. The terminal may access at least one unit in the air conditioner system, and monitor and control operation of the air conditioner system as a second controller.

In addition, the outdoor unit <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, and the like may wirelessly communicate directly with each other by a predetermined wireless communication method, and the outdoor unit <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, and the like may wirelessly communicate directly with a mobile terminal by the predetermined wireless communication method. As a result, a user is able to monitor a state of each unit conveniently using a mobile terminal, and control each unit.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating configuration of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, in the air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of indoor unit <NUM>, a plurality of outdoor units <NUM>, and a controller <NUM> transmit and receive data by a wireless communication method.

The outdoor units <NUM> may be connected to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> via refrigerant pipes P1, P2, and P3, and transmit and receive data with respect to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> by a wireless communication method.

By periodically communicating with the plurality of indoor units <NUM>, the outdoor units <NUM> may transmit and receive data with respect to the indoor units <NUM> and change operation according to change of operation setting of the indoor units <NUM>. The plurality of outdoor units <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may transmit and receive data by a wireless communication method.

The indoor units <NUM> may communicate not just with the outdoor units <NUM>, but also with the controller <NUM> by a wireless communication method.

A first outdoor unit <NUM> is connected to first, second, and third indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> via a first refrigerant pipe P1; a second outdoor unit <NUM> is connected to fourth, fifth, and sixth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> via a second refrigerant pipe P2; and a third outdoor unit <NUM> is connected to seventh, eighth, and ninth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> via a third refrigerant pipe P3. For convenience of explanation, each outdoor unit is described being connected to three indoor units, but it is merely exemplary and there is no limitation on the number or shape of indoor units.

Refrigerant is supplied to the first, second, and third indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> from the first outdoor unit <NUM> upon operation of the first outdoor unit <NUM>; refrigerant is supplied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> via the second refrigerant pipe P2 from the second outdoor unit <NUM> upon operation of the second outdoor unit <NUM>; and refrigerant is supplied to the seventh, eighth, and ninth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> from the third outdoor unit <NUM> via the third refrigerant pipe P3 upon operation of the third outdoor unit <NUM>.

Air conditioners may be grouped by an outdoor unit, and each group of air conditioners may communicate using a different channel. An indoor unit performs heat exchange using refrigerant supplied from an outdoor unit and discharges cold or hot air, and thus, the indoor unit and the outdoor units connected via a refrigerant pipe may be set as one group.

For example, the first outdoor unit <NUM> may form a first group with the first, second, and third indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> connected thereto via the first refrigerant pipe P1; the second outdoor unit <NUM> may form a second group with the fourth, fifth, and sixth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> connected thereto via the second refrigerant pipe P2; and the third outdoor unit <NUM> may form a third group with the seventh, eighth, and ninth indoor units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> connected thereto via the third refrigerant pipe P3. An outdoor and a controller may form a group according to where they are installed. A state of connection via a refrigerant pipe may be distinguished based on whether there is a change in temperature of an indoor unit by supply of refrigerant from an outdoor when the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are operated.

The controller <NUM> may communicate with the indoor units <NUM> or the outdoor units <NUM>, regardless of a group.

The controller <NUM> controls operation of the plurality of indoor units <NUM> and the plurality of outdoor units <NUM> In response to an input user command, periodically receive and store data on corresponding operation of the plurality of indoor units and the plurality of outdoor units, and outputs an operation state through a monitor screen.

The controller <NUM> may be connected to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> to perform operation setting, lock setting, schedule control, group control, peak control regarding power consumption, demand control, etc. In addition, by communicating with the outdoor units <NUM>, the controller <NUM> controls the outdoor units <NUM> and monitors operation of the outdoor unit <NUM>.

In the case where the controller <NUM> is implemented as a plurality of controllers, the plurality of controllers may transmit and receive data with each other through mutual wireless communication and may be connected to an external controller via a predetermined network.

When a controller and a plurality of units transmit and receive data by a wireless communication method, addresses necessary for the communication are stored in the controller and each unit. Each address may be allocated by an outdoor unit and the controller.

As described above, an outdoor unit may be grouped with indoor units connected thereto via a refrigerant pipe. In this case, addresses may be allocated to the outdoor unit and the indoor units belonging to the same group of the outdoor unit. In addition, even though a group is set with reference to an outdoor unit, communication is possible with every outdoor unit and every indoor unit. Accordingly, the controller may allocate addresses for central control in addition to addresses for communication on a group basis. In some cases, the controller may use the addresses allocated to an outdoor unit and indoor units as addresses for the central control, without allocating additional addresses.

Meanwhile, each unit of the air conditioner system, such as the outdoor units <NUM>, the indoor units <NUM>, and the controller <NUM>, may wirelessly communicate with a mobile terminal <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include the mobile terminal <NUM> which is enabled to check a condition of an electronic device (unit), such as the outdoor units <NUM>, the indoor units <NUM>, and the controller <NUM>, and a condition of an electronic device in the system.

The mobile terminal <NUM> may be provided with an application for controlling the air conditioner system, and check and control a state of the air conditioner system by executing the application.

The mobile terminal <NUM> may be, for example, a smart phone 200a embedded with an application for the air conditioner system, a laptop 200b, a tablet PC 200c, etc..

<FIG> is a diagram for explaining communication in an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> shows communication between units using wired communication, and <FIG> shows communication between units using wireless communication according to the present invention.

Referring to (a) of <FIG>, a plurality of units in the air conditioner system is connected via communication lines. Since there is limitation in connection of the communication lines, the plurality of units is not connected one by one but is connected in phases according to a connected shape of connection lines.

A plurality of indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit via a communication line, and the outdoor unit is connected to the controller. When there is a plurality of outdoor units, the plurality of indoor units is connected to the plurality of outdoor units with reference to a connected state of a refrigerant pipe. The plurality of outdoor unit is connected to the controller.

An indoor units transmit data to an outdoor units, and the outdoor units transmits its own data and the data received from the indoor unit to the controller. The controller may check an operation state of the indoor unit based on data received from the outdoor units.

In the case where the controller transmits a control command to an indoor unit, the controller transmits the control command to an outdoor unit connected to the indoor unit and the outdoor unit transmits the received control command to the indoor unit.

As such, in the case of wired communication, a plurality of units is not connected one by one, so data is transmitted in phases according to a connection state of communication lines.

Accordingly, since data of an indoor unit is not able to be transmitted directly, there is time delay in transmission of the data. In addition, since an outdoor unit needs to process even data on another unit, load is increased. Furthermore, since one outdoor unit needs to process data on a plurality of indoor units, it takes long time to transmit data depending on the number of indoor units connected to the outdoor unit.

In addition, even when a state of units are monitored using the mobile terminal <NUM>, data on an indoor unit is not able to be transmitted directly and thus the data may be transmitted and received via the controller <NUM> or the like. The mobile terminal <NUM> is not capable of freely communicating with each unit of the air conditioner system, and needs to receive, from a particular unit, only information on the particular unit and communicate with the controller <NUM> of an upper layer in order to obtain whole information.

As shown in (b) of <FIG>, an outdoor unit <NUM>, an indoor unit <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, and a mobile terminal <NUM> transmits and receives data with respect to each other by a wireless communication method.

The controller <NUM> and/or the mobile terminal <NUM> may request data from each of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the indoor unit <NUM>, and may determine an operation state or abnormality of each unit based on data received from each of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the indoor unit <NUM>.

In the above, grouping an outdoor unit and an indoor in consideration of a flow of refrigerant has been described, but a communication channel including the controller, the outdoor unit, and the indoor unit may be set separately from a communication channel between the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.

The controller <NUM> and/or the mobile terminal <NUM> may change operation setting of the indoor unit based on data received from the indoor unit <NUM> according to a condition (temperature or humidity) of an indoor space where the indoor unit <NUM> is installed, and transmits data dependent upon the change of the operation setting directly to the indoor unit. In this case, when the operation setting is changed, the indoor unit <NUM> transmits the corresponding data to the outdoor unit and accordingly operation of the outdoor unit <NUM> is changed as well.

When the indoor unit <NUM> is scheduled to operate at a preset time, the controller <NUM> may transmit an operation command to the indoor unit and the outdoor connected thereto, and the indoor unit may transmit a response to the operation command to the controller <NUM> and transmit data on an operation state thereof at a predetermined interval.

In response to data received through an input unit or data received from the controller <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM> sets operation and transmits data to the outdoor unit.

The outdoor unit <NUM> controls a compressor by calculating a load according to the data received from the indoor unit and an operation state of a plurality of indoor units.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and the indoor unit <NUM> may transmit data to the controller <NUM> at a predetermined time interval, and transmit error or abnormality-related data to the controller <NUM> in response to an occurrence of an error or an abnormality, regardless of a cycle.

<FIG> is a block diagram schematically illustrating control configuration of units in an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be a unit <NUM> in an air conditioner system. For example, an electronic device according to an embodiment may be one of an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, a controller, and a wireless sensor in an air conditioner system.

Referring to <FIG>, the unit <NUM> in the air conditioner system may include a driver <NUM>, a sensing unit <NUM>, an output unit <NUM>, an input unit <NUM>, a storage unit <NUM>, and a controller <NUM> for controlling overall operation.

In addition, the unit <NUM> may be provided with a wireless communication module <NUM> or may be connected to the wireless communication module <NUM>. The wireless communication module <NUM> may be embedded in a unit or installed outside the unit.

These are common components included in every unit <NUM>, and an additional component may be added depending on characteristics of a product.

For example, the outdoor unit <NUM> includes a compressor, an outdoor unit fan, and a plurality of valves. Accordingly, drivers of the outdoor unit may be classified into a compressor driver, an outdoor unit fan driver, and a vale controller.

The indoor unit <NUM> is provided with a louver or a vane as a wind direction adjusting means, and may be provided with an indoor unit fan driver, a valve controller, and a wind direction controller as the indoor unit <NUM> includes an indoor fan and a plurality of valves.

In addition, the type, the number, and the installation positions of sensors included in the sensing unit <NUM> may vary depending on a type of a unit.

The storage unit <NUM> stores control data for controlling operation of the unit <NUM>, communication data for setting an address necessary to communicate with another unit or setting a group, data transmitted and received with respect to the outside, and operation data generated or sensed during operation. The storage unit <NUM> stores an execution program of each function of the unit, data for operation control, and transmitted and received data.

The storage unit <NUM> may be implemented in a hardware manner, as a variety of storage devices such as ROM, RAM, EPROM, flash drive, hard drive, and the like.

The input unit <NUM> includes at least one input means, such as a button, a switch, and a touch input means. When a user command or predetermined data is input in response to manipulation of an input means, the input unit <NUM> transmits the input data to the controller <NUM>. The outdoor unit may be provided with a test run key and an address setting key, and the indoor unit may be provided with a power key, a menu input key, an operation setting key, a temperature adjusting key, a wind power key, a lock key, etc..

The output unit <NUM> may include at least one of a lamp which is controlled to be turned on or blink, an audio output unit provided with a speaker for outputting predetermined sound, or a display so as to output an operation state of the unit. The lamp notifies whether the unit is in operation, depending on whether the lamp is turned on, which color the lamp is turned on, whether the lamp is blinking, and the speaker output an operation state by outputting predetermined alarming sound or effect sound. The display may output a menu screen for controlling the unit, and output a guidance message or an alarm related to operation setting or an operation state of the unit, wherein the guidance message or the alarm is composed of a combination of at least one of a text, a number, or an image.

The sensing unit <NUM> may include a plurality of sensors. The sensing unit <NUM> may include a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a gas sensor, a humidity sensor, and a flow sensor.

For example, a plurality of temperature sensor is provided to sense indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, temperature of an indoor heat-exchanger, temperature of an outdoor heat-exchanger, and pipe temperature, and to input sensed values to the controller <NUM>. The pressure sensor is installed at an inlet port and an outlet port of a refrigerant pipe, measure pressure of flowing refrigerant and pressure of discharged refrigerant, and input measurements to the controller <NUM>. The pressure sensor may be installed not just in the refrigerant pipe, but also in a water pipe.

The driver <NUM> supplies operation power to a control target in accordance with a control command of the controller <NUM>, and controls driving of the control target. As described above, in the case of an outdoor unit, the driver <NUM> may be provided as a compressor driver, an outdoor unit fan driver, and a value controller for controlling a compressor, an outdoor fan, and a vale, respectively. The driver <NUM> may apply operation power to motors provided in the compressor, the outdoor unit fan, the value, etc. so that preset operations are performed upon operation of the motors.

The wireless communication module <NUM> supports at least one or more wireless communication methods, and communicate with another unit in accordance with a control command of the controller <NUM>. The wireless communication unit <NUM> allows the controller <NUM>, the outdoor unit <NUM>, and the indoor unit <NUM> to transmit and receive data with respect to each other by a preset wireless communication method, and transmit received data to the controller <NUM>.

The wireless communication module <NUM> sets an address for communication between units, transforms data to be transmitted and received, and processes a signal. Upon operation of the unit, the wireless communication module <NUM> searches for a unit in the same frequency band through wireless communication, and verifies connection to the unit. The wireless communication module <NUM> performs communication by allocating a temporary address for an initial operation or setting a received temporary address. In addition, when setting an address in response to a control command of the controller, the wireless communication module <NUM> may request a product number from the controller and set an address based on the product number. The product number may be a unique number, a serial number, a Media Access Control (MAC) address, or the like of the unit.

The controller <NUM> controls data to be input and output trough the input unit <NUM> and the output unit <NUM>, manages data stored in the storage unit <NUM>, and controls transmitting and receiving data through the wireless communication module <NUM>. The controller <NUM> senses a connection state and a communication state of the wireless communication module <NUM> through a connection unit (not shown), and determines an error.

The controller <NUM> generates a control command to operate in accordance with a request from another unit or a set operation setting, and transmits the control command to the driver <NUM>. Accordingly, the driver <NUM> may control a component connected thereto, for example, a compressor, an output unit fan, a value, an indoor fan, a wind direction adjusting means, etc. to operate.

In addition, while a unit is in operation, the controller <NUM> determines an operation state of the unit based on data received from a plurality of sensors of the sensing unit <NUM>, and outputs an error.

The wireless communication module <NUM> may be provided inside the unit <NUM> or may be connected to the unit <NUM> via a connection unit (not shown). The wireless communication module <NUM> receives data of the unit via the connection unit, and transmits received data to the unit.

The wireless communication module <NUM> may perform wireless communication using a sub-GHz frequency band so that communication is enabled despite the presence of a wall, a floor, an obstacle, etc. in a building. The sub-GHz frequency band has excellent transmission and rotation characteristics, and thus is less attenuated in response to a wall or an inter-floor object. Thus, the wireless communication module <NUM> is efficient to be used for communication within an air conditioner system provided with a plurality of units in a building partitioned by walls.

The wireless communication module <NUM> performs communication using one of <NUM> and <NUM> which are unlicensed bands available for a lower power wireless station in Sub-GHZ bands. The wireless communication module <NUM> may selectively use <NUM> and <NUM> in response to a standard which is different depending on a region or country.

In addition, the wireless communication module <NUM> may further include a Zigbee module, a Bluetooth module, an NFC module, and any other communication module which is a short-range communication technology.

The wireless communication module <NUM> includes a plurality of communication modules, so the same communication module or different communication modules may be used for communication between an outdoor unit and another indoor unit, communication with a remote controller, and communication with the controller. The wireless communication module <NUM> may perform communication by a different communication method according to a target to communicate, by selectively changing the communication method in response to the target to communicate.

When different channels are used for communication with an indoor unit and communication with a controller, the wireless communication module <NUM> may transmit and receive data by setting a different channel according to a target to communicate.

According to the Korean radio wave act, over a frequency band of <NUM> or 900MHx, there are <NUM> channels between <NUM> and <NUM> and <NUM> channels between <NUM> and <NUM> for radio equipment of a predetermined low-power wireless station used for data transmission, and <NUM> channels between <NUM> and <NUM> for radio equipment of RFID/USN. Thus, communication may be performed using the above channels.

Unlicensed frequency bands used in countries are as below: <NUM>-<NUM> (FCC Part <NUM>) in North and South America; <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>(ETSIEN300220) in Europe; <NUM>- <NUM>(ARIB STD-T108) in Japan; <NUM> in China; <NUM>- <NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>(KC) in South Korea; <NUM>- <NUM>(G. R <NUM>(E)) in India; <NUM> and <NUM> in Australia; and <NUM> in South Africa. Across the world, <NUM> and <NUM> are commonly available.

In addition, if <NUM>-<NUM> is used in the North and South America, <NUM>-<NUM> in Europe, <NUM>-<NUM> in Japan, <NUM> to <NUM> in South Korea, <NUM>-<NUM> in India, and <NUM>/<NUM> commonly across the word, communication may be possible at 50kbps or faster.

Since an obstacle such as a wall between floors and furniture exists in a building, it is necessary to use a frequency band which allows a signal to pass through such an obstacle and reach a predetermined distance or more.

Among sub-GHz bands, the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in Sub-GHz bands has an excellent feature of penetrating in a building and thus enables inter-floor communication. A length of an antenna depends on a transmitting frequency band, and, since <NUM> and <NUM> requires a long antenna length, there is restriction to install an antenna.

Therefore, it is desirable for the wireless communication module <NUM> to perform communication using a frequency band of <NUM> or <NUM> out of the aforementioned frequency bands.

<FIG> is an inner block diagram schematically illustrating a mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, a mobile terminal <NUM> may include a wireless communication unit <NUM>, an Audio/video (A/V) input unit <NUM>, a user input unit <NUM>, a sensing unit <NUM>, an output unit <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, an interface unit <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, and a power supply unit <NUM>.

The mobile terminal <NUM> according to one aspect of the present invention may include a wireless communication module <NUM> wirelessly communicating with a plurality of electronic devices.

The wireless communication module <NUM> may be configured as one block of the wireless communication unit <NUM>.

In the case of wirelessly communicating with each unit <NUM> included in the air conditioner system using a sub-GHz band, the wireless communication module <NUM> supporting wireless communication in a sub-GHz band may be used. Not all the common mobile terminals <NUM> are embedded with the wireless communication module <NUM> supporting sub-GHz band wireless communication, so it is desirable to use a dedicated wireless communication module <NUM> for connection.

In this case, the wireless communication unit <NUM> may be connected via the interface unit <NUM> or via the wireless communication unit <NUM>.

Meanwhile, the wireless communication unit <NUM> may include a broadcast receiving module <NUM>, a mobile communication module <NUM>, a wireless internet module <NUM>, a short-range communication module <NUM>, and a location information module(ex) a Global Position System (GPS) module) <NUM>.

The broadcast receiving module <NUM> may receive at least one of a broadcast signal or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, a terrestrial channel, etc..

The broadcast signal and/or the broadcast-related information received through the broadcast receiving module <NUM> may be stored in the memory <NUM>.

The mobile communication module <NUM> transmits and receive a radio signal with respect to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server on a mobile communication network. The radio signal may include a voice call signal, a video call signal, or various types of data according to transmission and reception of text/multimedia message.

The wireless internet module <NUM> refers to a module for wireless Internet access. The wireless internet module <NUM> may be embedded in or external to the mobile terminal <NUM>. For example, the wireless internet module <NUM> may perform Wi-Fi-based wireless communication or Wi-Fi Direct-based wireless communication.

The short-range communication module <NUM> refers to a module for local area communication, and may support short-range communication using at least one of the following: Bluetooth™, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), and ZigBee.

The short-range communication module <NUM> may support wireless communication between the mobile terminal <NUM> and a wireless communication system, wireless communication between the mobile terminal <NUM> and another mobile terminal <NUM>, wireless communication between the mobile terminal and a different mobile terminal, or wireless communication between the mobile terminal <NUM> and a network in which an external server is located via short-range wireless area networks.

The GPS module <NUM> may receive position information from a plurality of GPS satellites.

Meanwhile, the wireless communication unit <NUM> may exchange data with a server using one or more communication modules.

The wireless communication unit <NUM> may include an antenna <NUM> for wireless communication, and may include an antenna for receiving a broadcast signal in addition to an antenna for making a call.

The A/V input unit <NUM> is related to an audio signal or a video signal, and may include a camera <NUM> and a microphone <NUM>.

The user input unit <NUM> generates key input data that is input by a user to control operation of the terminal. To this end, the user input unit <NUM> may be in the form of a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (static pressure/electrostatic), or the like. In particular, if a touch pad forms an inter-layered structure with a display unit <NUM>, the structure may refer to a touch screen.

The sensing unit <NUM> may generate a sensing signal for controlling operation of the mobile terminal <NUM>, by sensing the current state of the mobile terminal <NUM>, for example, an opened/closed state of the mobile terminal <NUM>, a position of the mobile terminal <NUM>, and the presence of the user's contact.

The sensing unit <NUM> may include a proximity sensor <NUM>, a pressure sensor <NUM>, a motion sensor <NUM>, etc. The motion sensor <NUM> may sense movement or a position of the mobile terminal <NUM> using an accelerometer, a gyro sensor, a gravity sensor, and the like. In particular, the gyro sensor is a sensor for measuring an angular velocity, which is able to sense a direction (an angle) of rotation against a reference direction.

The output unit <NUM> may include the display unit <NUM>, a sound output module <NUM>, an alarm unit <NUM>, a haptic module <NUM>, etc..

The display unit <NUM> displays information processed in the mobile terminal <NUM>.

Meanwhile, when the display unit <NUM> forms an inter-layered structure with the touch pad to implement a touch screen, the display unit <NUM> may be used not just as an output device but also as an input device to which information is allowed to be input by a user's touch.

The sound output module <NUM> outputs audio data received from the wireless communication unit <NUM> or stored in the memory <NUM>. The sound output module <NUM> may include a speaker, a buzzer, etc..

The alarm unit <NUM> outputs a signal for notifying occurrence of an event in the mobile terminal <NUM>. For example, the alarm unit <NUM> may output a signal in the form of vibration.

The haptic module <NUM> generates various tactile effects that a user can feel. The typical example of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module <NUM> may be vibration effect.

The memory <NUM> may store a program for processing and controlling of the controller <NUM> or may temporarily store input and output data (e.g., a phone book, messages, still images, videos, etc.).

The interface unit <NUM> may plays a role as a channel with all external devices connected to the mobile terminal <NUM>. The interface unit <NUM> receives data or power from an external device and transfers the received data or power to each element of the mobile terminal <NUM> or allow internal data of the mobile terminal <NUM> to be transmitted to an external device.

The controller <NUM> generally controls overall operation of the mobile terminal <NUM> by controlling operation of each of the aforementioned elements. For example, the controller <NUM> may perform control or processing related to a voice call, data communication, a video call, and the like. In addition, the controller <NUM> may be provided with a multimedia playback module <NUM> for playing multimedia. The multimedia playback module <NUM> may be implemented in a hardware form inside the controller <NUM>, or may be implemented in a software form separately from the controller <NUM>.

The power supply unit <NUM> receives external and internal power under a control of the central controller <NUM> and supplies power necessary for operating each element.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal <NUM> shown in <FIG> is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Depending on specifications of the mobile terminal <NUM> in actual implementation, each constituent element in the block diagram may be combined or omitted or a new element may be added.

That is, two or more components may be combined into one element or one component may be divided into two or more components, as needed. In addition, the function of each block is described for the purpose of describing the embodiment of the present invention and thus specific operations or devices should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention which is defined in the claims.

<FIG> is a diagram for explaining an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, the air conditioner system in the method of the present invention may include an indoor unit <NUM>, an outdoor unit <NUM>, a remote controller <NUM>, a wireless sensor <NUM>, and a mobile terminal <NUM>.

In addition the air conditioner system may further include a controller, a ventilator, a defrost, a humidifier, a heater, or the like.

The remote controller <NUM> may be connected to the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> in a wired manner, and, more preferably, the remote controller <NUM> may communicate with the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> in a wireless manner.

As described above with reference to <FIG>, the mobile terminal <NUM> and the controller <NUM> (see <FIG>) may be wirelessly connected to units, such as the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM>, controls each of the units.

In response to a request for data information from the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit the requested data information. Depending on content of a request from the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit data information with different content.

The indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> receives a control signal from the mobile terminal <NUM> and the controller <NUM>. When receiving a control signal from the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may report reception of the control signal to the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, but aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto and the above process may vary depending on a communication method adapted by the air conditioner system.

When receiving a control signal, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may perform an operation corresponding to the control signal. The indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may receive, from the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>, a storage cycle or a storage time for storing a data signal including an operation state. The indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may store data information periodically or in response to occurrence of an error.

When an error occurs, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may extend a storage time of the recently stored data information. Each of the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may include a storage medium for storing the data information. For example, the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may periodically receive data information and may store, in response to occurrence of an error, the recently stored data information distinguishably from other information, but aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto.

Data information may include an operation state of the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM>. For example, the data information may include air temperature, compression temperature, evaporation temperature, discharge temperature, heat-exchanger temperature, etc., but aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto and the data information may include a broad range of information related to operation of the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM>.

The indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit data information including an operation state to the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>. When an on/off state or an operation state of the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> is changed or when an error occurs, the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit corresponding data information to the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM>. The indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> may communicate with the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> in a predetermined period of in response to occurrence of an event.

The mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may receive in real time detailed cycle data, which allows error analysis of each unit, and displays the received data on a screen.

In the case where the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> displays data information in a test form such as numbers, data information of the indoor unit <NUM>, data information of the outdoor unit <NUM>, and valve information of a pipe connecting the indoor unit <NUM> and the outdoor unit <NUM> may be displayed.

In some implementations, when displaying the valve information, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may display opening or closing of a valve in the form of color or picture. For example, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may display a opened valve in blue and a closed valve in gray or may display a picture of an opened valve and a picture of a closed valve, but aspects of the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned color or types of pictures.

In the case of displaying data information in the form of a time series image, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may select an outdoor unit <NUM> or an indoor unit <NUM> to display.

In the case of selecting one outdoor unit <NUM> from among a plurality of outdoor units <NUM>, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may select an indoor unit <NUM> to check, from among a plurality of indoor units <NUM> connected to the selected outdoor unit <NUM>.

When the outdoor unit <NUM> and the indoor unit <NUM> are selected, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may receive data information, which includes an operation state of the selected indoor unit <NUM> and a connection state between the selected outdoor unit <NUM> and the selected indoor unit <NUM>. The connection state may include a connection state of a pipe, a flow inside the pipe, an on/off state of the valve, etc., but aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto.

The mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may display an operation state of the selected outdoor unit <NUM> and the selected indoor unit <NUM> in a time-series manner in the form of change of a picture or change of color. The mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may display a state of a pipe connecting the selected outdoor unit <NUM> and the selected indoor unit <NUM>, and a state of a value.

The mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may check in real time an operation state of the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM>. When checking the operation state of the indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> in real time, the mobile terminal <NUM> or the controller <NUM> may receive data information in real time and display received data information.

The wireless sensor <NUM> senses an air condition, and transmit air condition data corresponding to the sensed air condition.

The air condition may be a concept including at least one of temperature, humidity, pressure, an amounts of dust, an amount of carbon dioxide, or an amount of oxygen. Accordingly, the wireless sensor <NUM> may measure at least one of temperature, humidity, pressure, an amount of dust, an amount of carbon dioxide, or an amount of oxygen.

The air condition data may include data on at least one of temperature, humidity, pressure, an amount of dust, an amount of carbon dioxide, or an amount of oxygen.

The wireless sensor <NUM> may transmit the air condition data in a broadcast manner. The broadcast manner may be a method of transmitting data without specifying a recipient. By transmitting air condition data to a predetermined communication network without specifying a recipient, the wireless sensor <NUM> may save energy, operations, and components necessary to set a recipient of the data.

The air condition data broadcasted by the wireless sensor <NUM> may be transferred to the outdoor unit <NUM> or the indoor unit <NUM>.

In addition, the air condition data broadcasted by the wireless sensor <NUM> may be transferred to the controller <NUM> or the mobile terminal <NUM>.

The indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> may perform an appropriate air conditioning operation based on the received air condition data.

The indoor unit <NUM> or the outdoor unit <NUM> may operate in accordance with a control signal received from the controller <NUM> or the mobile terminal <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, when units are wirelessly connected in the air conditioner system, installation costs and time may be remarkably reduced, compared to when the units are connected in a wired manner.

In addition, it is possible to check information of any one unit and control the corresponding unit by communicating directly the corresponding unit to control without passing through a particular unit, such as the controller <NUM>. As a result, it is advantageous in terms of communication time and convenience of use.

For some cases, such as a building and apartment where many units are wirelessly connected, it is possible to check and control information.

However, due to the increasing number of wirelessly connected units, unless an optimal communication channel is not configured, communication quality may be degraded, thereby leading to reduction in a communication speed and occurrence of interference.

Thus, there is need of a method of allowing wirelessly connected units to automatically set the optimal communication channel.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an outdoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, an outdoor unit <NUM> (see <FIG>) according to an embodiment of the present invention may receive an auto address setting command or an auto communication channel setting command in S710.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may be grouped with a plurality of indoor units <NUM> (see <FIG>), and the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> in the same group may periodically exchange a signal with each other periodically or in response to occurrence of an event. In addition, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of the indoor units <NUM> in the same group may be controlled as a group.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may perform wireless communication using a sub-GHz frequency band.

Each wireless communication module <NUM> of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may wirelessly communicate with another unit using a sub-GHZ frequency band under the control of the controller <NUM>.

The sub-GHz frequency band has excellent transmission and rotation characteristics and thus is less attenuated due to the presence of a wall or an inter-floor obstacle. Therefore, the sub-GHz frequency band is effected to be used for the purpose of communication of the air conditioner system in which a plurality of units are positioned in multiple floors in a building partitioned by walls.

The auto address setting command or the auto communication channel setting command may be an input of pressing a hard key provided in the outdoor unit <NUM>, or may be received from the controller <NUM> (see <FIG>) or the mobile terminal <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Alternatively, the auto address setting command or the auto communication channel setting command may be received from any one of the plurality of indoor units <NUM> belonging to the same group.

The outdoor unit <NUM> transmits a channel scan start command to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> belonging to the same group in S720.

In addition, the outdoor unit <NUM> performs a channel scan to check whether a channel is being used and to measure communication load in S730.

The channel scan may be performed on a plurality of channels which are set in a predetermined range of frequencies in a sub-GHz band. For example, the channel scan may be performed on <NUM> channels which are preset in a sub-GHz band.

For wireless communications, a variety of modification methods such as FSK, GFSK, OQPSK, PSK, and OFDM may be used. If a channel scan is performed using every modification method, a channel scan time may be dramatically increased in proportion to the number of channels and the number of modification method in use.

Thus, preferably, the air conditioner <NUM> may check an amount of communication load of a plurality of channels in an energy detection method, thereby reducing a channel scan time.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may scan all preset channels, and, depending on whether energy is detected in a channel during the scanning, determine whether the corresponding channel is being used.

In some implementations, when energy equal to or greater than a predetermined value is detected, the outdoor unit <NUM> may determine that a corresponding channel is being used.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> may repeatedly scan all preset channels a predetermined number of times, and decide an amount of communication load based on energy detected through the repeated scanning.

In some implementations, the outdoor unit <NUM> may decide an amount of communication load based on the size of detected energy.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a channel use amount may be decided, not by checking the channel use amount on the basis of each channel x each modulation method, but by checking the channel use amount on the basis of channel idleness regardless of a type of wireless modulation method. For example, it is possible to measure communication load in an energy detection method for a predetermined period of time, regardless of a modulation method, and to automatically set a communication channel when a channel for use is determined.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by performing wireless channel scan on sub-GHz band wireless communication, it is possible to check an amount of communication load and use of each channel.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> receives channel scan results from a plurality of indoor units <NUM> belonging to the same group in S740.

The plurality of indoor units <NUM> belonging to the same group which has received a channel scan start command from the outdoor unit <NUM> may perform channel scan in the same way, as does the outdoor unit <NUM>, and transmit channel scan results to the outdoor unit <NUM>.

Based on a result of a channel scan performed on its own and the channel scan results received from the plurality of indoor units <NUM>, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines a channel for use of the corresponding group in S750.

The plurality of indoor units <NUM> may be disposed in different layers and in different spaces. Thus, communication environment may vary depending on positions of the plurality of indoor units <NUM>.

According to the present invention, a channel for use may be determined, not on the basis of a result of a channel scan performed by a predetermined device alone, but on the basis of aggregated results of channel scans performed by the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a, individually.

According to the present invention, a channel scan may be performed by all units belonging to a group, and the outdoor unit <NUM> may aggregate results of channel scans received from all units of a group.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may analyze channel difference at each position by aggregating channel scan results, and determine that a channel not being used or having the smallest amount of communication load is a channel for use.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may use the highest load occupancy rate of each channel in the channel scan results of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> as a representative load occupancy rate of a corresponding channel. That is, the worst result in results of all units may be used as a representative value of a use amount of each channel.

Meanwhile, if there is only one channel whose load occupancy rate is <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that the channel whose load occupancy rate is <NUM>% is a channel for use.

In addition, if there is a plurality of channels having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that a channel with the greatest difference in a load occupancy rate from an adjacent channel from among the plurality of channels having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>% is a channel for use.

Interference may occur between channels and adjacent channels thereof. Thus, if there is a plurality of channels having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, it is desirable to use a channel with an adjacent channel having a low load occupancy rate in order to minimize the interference.

If there is no channel having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that a channel having the lowest load occupancy rate due to other device not included in an air conditioner system is a channel for use.

Communication load between units included in the air conditioner system is easy to expect and manage, compared to communication load between units over different wireless communication (heterogeneous network).

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> outputs information on the determined channel to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> in S760.

In this case, the information on the determined channel may include a command that instructs setting the determined channel as a communication channel.

The wireless communication module <NUM> of the outdoor unit <NUM> may broadcast a signal including the information on the determined channel a predetermined number of times, and the respective wireless communication modules <NUM> of the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may receive the broadcasted signal.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> may set the determined channel as a communication channel.

In addition, when the auto address setting command is received, the outdoor unit <NUM> may set the determined channel as a communication channel, and perform auto address setting. One example of the auto address setting will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an indoor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, an indoor unit <NUM> (see <FIG>) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a channel scan start command from an outdoor unit <NUM> (see <FIG>) belonging to the same group in S830.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and a plurality of indoor units <NUM> (see <FIG>) may be set to as one group. The outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> in the same group may exchange signals periodically or in response to occurrence of an event. In addition, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> in the same group may be controlled as a group.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may wirelessly communicate with each other using a sub-GHz frequency band.

In accordance with control by the controller <NUM>, wireless communication modules <NUM> of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may wirelessly communicate with another unit using the sub-GHz frequency band.

A sub-GHz frequency band has excellent transmission and rotation characteristics, and thus is less attenuated in response to a wall or an inter-floor object. Thus, the wireless communication module <NUM> is efficient to be used for communication within an air conditioner system which is provided with a plurality of units in a building partitioned by walls.

In some implementations, any one of the plurality of indoor units <NUM> may receive an auto address setting command or an auto communication channel setting command in S810, and transmit a corresponding signal to the outdoor unit <NUM> belonging to the same group of the plurality of indoor units <NUM> in S820.

The indoor units <NUM> may receive the auto address setting command or the auto communication channel setting command to the controller <NUM> (see <FIG>), the mobile terminal <NUM> (see <FIG>), and the like.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit a channel scan start command to the plurality of indoor units <NUM> belonging to the same group.

The indoor units <NUM> may perform a channel scan to check a use amount and communication load of each channel in s840.

Each of the indoor units <NUM> may perform a channel scan on a plurality of channels which is set in a predetermined range of frequencies in a sub-GHz band, in the similar manner as does the outdoor unit <NUM>.

The indoor units <NUM> may reduce a channel scan time by checking an amount of communication load of a plurality of channels in an energy detection method.

The indoor units <NUM> may scan all set channels, and determine whether a corresponding channel is being used, depending on whether energy is detected in the corresponding channel during the scanning.

In some implementations, when energy equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the indoor units <NUM> may determine that a corresponding channel is being used.

Meanwhile, the indoor units <NUM> may scan all set channels repeatedly a predetermined number of times, and determine an amount of communication load based on energy detected through the repeated scanning.

In some implementations, the indoor units <NUM> may determine an amount of communication load based on the size of detected energy.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a channel use amount may be determined, not by checking on the basis of each channel x each modulation method, but by checking on the basis of channel idleness, regardless of a type of wireless modulation method. For example, it is possible to measure communication load in an energy detection method for a predetermined period of time, regardless of a type of a modulation method, and to automatically set a communication module when a channel for use is determined.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by performing a wirelessly channel scan on sub-GHz band wireless communication, it is possible to check an amount of communication load and use of each channel.

The indoor units <NUM> may transmit channel scan results to the outdoor unit <NUM> in S850.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may determine a channel for use of a corresponding group based on a result of a channel scan performed on its own and the channel scan results received from the plurality of indoor units <NUM>.

In addition, the outdoor unit <NUM> may output information on the determined channel for use to the plurality of indoor units <NUM>. The information on the determined channel may include a command that instructs setting the determined channel as a communication channel.

The wireless communication module <NUM> of the outdoor unit <NUM> may broadcast a signal including the information on the determined channel a predetermined number of times, and the respective wireless communication modules <NUM> of the indoor units <NUM> may receive the broadcasted signal in S860.

The indoor units <NUM> may set a communication channel as the determined channel.

In addition, when the auto address setting command is received, the indoor units <NUM> may set the determined channel as a communication channel and perform auto address setting. One example of the auto address setting will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment, and <FIG>, <FIG> are diagram for explaining a control method of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, an outdoor unit <NUM> and a plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may be set as one group, and the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may wirelessly communicate with each other using a sub-GHz frequency band.

One of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n in a particular group may receive an auto address setting command or an auto communication channel setting command in S901.

In <FIG>, the outdoor unit <NUM> shows an example in which the outdoor unit <NUM> receives the auto address setting command or the auto communication channel setting command, but aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto thereto, the scope of the invention being defined in the claims.

For example, one of the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may receive an auto address setting command or an auto communication setting command, and the corresponding indoor unit having received the auto address setting command or the auto communication channel setting command may transfer the received command by transmitting a predetermined signal to the outdoor unit <NUM>.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> may transmit a channel scan start command to the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n belonging to the particular group in S910. In some implementations, the outdoor unit <NUM> may output the channel scan start command in a broadcast manner.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may perform a channel scan individually in S921, S922, and S923.

The channel scan may be performed on a plurality of channels which is set in a predetermined range of frequencies in a sub-GHz band. For example, the channel scan may be performed on <NUM> channels which are preset in a sub-GHZ band.

Preferably, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may check an amount of communication load of a plurality of channels in an energy detection method, thereby reducing a channel scan time.

The outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may scan all the set channels individually, and, depending on whether energy is detected in a channel during the scanning, determine whether the corresponding channel is being used.

In some implementations, when energy equal to or greater than a predetermined value is detected in a channel, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may determine that the corresponding channel is being used.

As shown in (a) of <FIG>, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may perform an energy scan to sequentially detect energy per channel.

In this case, the shorter one energy scan time is, the better it is. The energy scan may be performed on all the channels for a preset period of time. Accordingly, accuracy of the energy scan may be enhanced further.

As shown in (b) of <FIG>, if one energy scan time for a predetermined channel is set long, the probability of detection failure of energy occurring in a communication signal of the corresponding channel is rather increased. Thus, repeatedly performing an energy scan for the predetermined channel in a predetermined cycle may help detect energy more accurately.

Thus, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may perform a scan on all set channels a predetermined number of times, and determine an amount of communication load based on energy detected through the repeated scanning.

In some implementations, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may determine an amount of communication load based on the size of detected energy.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, by performing a wireless channel scan on wireless communication of a sub-GHz band, it is possible to check an amount of communication load and use of each channel.

The plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may transmit channel scan results to the outdoor unit <NUM> in S931 and S932.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may determine a channel for use of the corresponding group based on a result of a channel scan performed on its own and the channel scan results received from the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n in S940.

According to the present invention, a channel for use may be determined on the basis of results of channel scans individually performed by all units of a group and aggregated by the outdoor unit <NUM>, not on the basis of a result of a channel scan performed by a predetermined device alone. The outdoor unit <NUM> may analyze difference between communication channels at each location based on the aggregated channel scan results, and determine that a channel not being used or having the lowest amount of communication load is a channel for use.

The outdoor unit <NUM> may use the highest load occupancy rate of each channel in the channel scan results of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n as a representative load occupancy rate of a corresponding channel. That is, for a use amount of each channel, the worst result in all results of each unit may be used as a representative value.

<FIG> shows an example of a channel scan result.

In the example of <FIG>, a representative value for CH01 may be set to <NUM>% from among <NUM>%, <NUM>%, and <NUM>%.

In the same manner, representative values for CH02, CH03, CH04, CH05, and CH06 may be <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, and <NUM>%, respectively.

Meanwhile, if there is only one channel having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that the channel having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>% is a channel for use.

Referring to the example of <FIG>, CH03 and CH04 has a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%. The outdoor unit <NUM> may determine one of CH03 and CH04 to be a channel for use.

CH02 and CH04, which are adjacent channels of Channel <NUM>, have a load occupancy rate of <NUM>% and a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, respectively. CH03 and CH05, which are adjacent channels of CH04, have a load occupancy rate of <NUM>% and a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, respectively.

Thus, by selecting CH04 whose adjacent channels have a lower load occupancy rate, the outdoor unit <NUM> may reduce interference between adjacent channels.

In addition, if there is a plurality of channels having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that a channel with the greatest difference in a load occupancy rate with an adjacent channel from among the plurality of channels having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>% is a channel for use. Even in this case, CH04 may be selected in the example of <FIG>.

Alternatively, if there are two or more channels having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, a channel having the maximum sum of square of difference between the channel and each of two adjacent channels whose load occupancy rate is greater than <NUM>% may be selected.

Meanwhile, there is no channel having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> may determine that a channel having the lowest load occupancy rate is a channel for use. That is, a channel currently having the lowest amount of communication load may be used. Meanwhile, if there are two or more channels equally having a low load occupancy rate, one of the two or more channels may be selected.

<FIG> is an example of a channel scan result, showing examples of a representative value of each channel, a homogeneity occupancy rate, and a heterogeneity occupancy rate. The homogeneity occupancy rate indicates a load occupancy rate by units included in the air conditioner system, and a heterogeneity occupancy rate is a load occupancy rate by other electronic devices not included in the air conditioner system.

Referring to the example of <FIG>, the outdoor unit <NUM> may determine that CH01 or CH02 having the lowest load occupancy rate is a channel for use.

Communication load between units included in the air conditioner system may be easy to expect and manage, compared to other external wireless communication (a heterogeneous network).

If there is no channel having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, the outdoor unit <NUM> determines that a channel having the lowest load occupancy rate due to other device not included in the air conditioner system is a channel for use.

Referring to the example of <FIG>, the outdoor unit <NUM> may determine that CH01 having a higher homogeneity occupancy rate and a lower heterogeneity occupancy rate among CH <NUM> and CH02 is a channel for use.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> may output information on the determined channel to the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n in S950.

The information on the determined communication channel may include a command that instructs setting the determined channel as a communication channel.

The wireless communication module <NUM> of the outdoor unit <NUM> may broadcast a signal including the information on the determined channel a predetermined number of times, and the wireless communication module <NUM> of each of the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may receive the broadcasted signal.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may set the determined channel as a communication channel in S961, S962, and S963.

In a building, an apartment, and any case where many products are wirelessly connected, the present invention determine an available frequency band from among limited frequency resources and automatically determine an optimal frequency without a user's setting.

In addition, when attempting to change a channel, an installer, an engineer, a SVC man, a user, or the like is able to check the optimal communication channel and manually change a channel.

Accordingly, equipment such as an additional spectrum analyzer is not necessary, and the most comfortable channel environment may be confirmed with low costs.

Meanwhile, if any one of the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n receives an auto address setting command, the outdoor unit <NUM> and the plurality of indoor units 20a to 20n may set the determined channel as a communication channel and perform auto address setting.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example of an auto address setting method of an air conditioner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

A plurality of units, that is, an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a controller, may allocate addresses by wirelessly communicating with each other. In the following, the plurality of units are exemplified by a first outdoor unit <NUM>, a first indoor unit <NUM>, and a second indoor unit <NUM>.

One of a plurality of units is a mater unit capable of allocating an address to another unit. Hereinafter, the first outdoor unit <NUM> is described as a mater unit and as allocating addresses to the plurality of units.

Even an indoor unit may be set as a mater unit. However, since an indoor unit and an outdoor unit are operatively connected via a refrigerant pipe, description is provided by taking an example of allocating indoor units' addresses by an outdoor unit.

Respective controllers and wireless communication modules of the first outdoor unit <NUM> and the first and second indoor units correspond to the controllers and the wireless communication modules described above with reference to <FIG>. However, in order to distinguish the controllers and the wireless communication modules from each other, it is described in the following such that the outdoor unit <NUM> includes an outdoor-unit controller <NUM> and an outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM>, the first indoor unit <NUM> includes a first controller <NUM> and a first wireless communication module <NUM>, and the second indoor unit <NUM> includes a second controller <NUM> and a second wireless communication module <NUM>.

Once operating in response to power applied to a corresponding unit, each wireless communication module immediately check a communication state.

Referring to <FIG>, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a connection verification signal through wireless communication, and verifies connection with the first wireless communication module <NUM> and connection with the second wireless communication module <NUM> based on whether a response to the connection confirmation signal is received in S1211 and S1212.

Even without a control command of the outdoor-unit controller <NUM>, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> checks communication connection with another unit, that is, the first and second indoor units. If a response is not received for a predetermined period of time or more, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> may apply a communication error to the outdoor-unit controller <NUM>. Accordingly, the outdoor-unit controller may output the communication error.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM>, the first wireless communication module <NUM>, and the second wireless communication module <NUM> verify connection by exchanging signals to each other. In the case where an address is not yet allocated to each unit, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> may transmit a signal in a broadcast manner.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> acknowledge wirelessly connected units, that is, the first indoor unit <NUM> and the second indoor unit <NUM>, in S1220. As the connection is acknowledged, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> may receive information on the first indoor unit <NUM> and the second indoor unit <NUM>. The first wireless communication module <NUM> and the second wireless communication module <NUM> may also receive and store information on the outdoor unit <NUM>. Received information may include a type and a model of a corresponding unit. Information on a unit may be used to distinguish the unit with respect to a temporary address.

The wireless communication module <NUM> stores information on a unit received from the controller <NUM>. Then, when connection is verified or when a request is received from another unit, the wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a response corresponding to data stored in a memory without additionally requesting data from the controller <NUM>.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> allocates a temporary address to a device to which connection is acknowledged in S1230. The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> allocates temporary addresses to the first indoor unit <NUM> and the second indoor unit <NUM>. Temporary addresses may be allocated in order in which connection is acknowledged, or may be allocated in response to information on a unit which is received during verification of connection. The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> allocates a temporary address even to an outdoor unit.

When an address setting start command is received from the outdoor-unit controller <NUM> in S1240, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a pre-allocated temporary address (first address) to the first indoor unit <NUM> in S1251. Then, the first wireless communication module <NUM> receives the temporary address from the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> and stores the received temporary address.

In addition, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a pre-allocated temporary address (second address) to the second indoor unit <NUM> in S1252. Then, the second wireless communication module <NUM> receives the temporary address from the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> and stores the received temporary address.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module, the first wireless communication module, and the second wireless communication module start to communicate with each other on the basis of their temporary addresses. The outdoor-unit wireless communication module, the first wireless communication module, and the second wireless communication module communicate with each other not just in a broadcast manner, but also in a unicast manner based on the temporary addresses.

For address setting, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> requests a product number from the outdoor-unit controller <NUM> in S1261. The outdoor-unit controller <NUM> transmits the product number to the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> in response to the request from the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> in S1271.

As the product number, 'a unique number, a serial number, am MAC address, or the like of a unit may be used.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> sets an address of the outdoor unit using a received product number and a temporary address in S1281. The outdoor unit communication module <NUM> may set a new address of the outdoor unit based on the product number and may set an address of the outdoor unit by matching the temporary address with the product number of by combining the product number and the temporary address.

For address setting, the first wireless communication module <NUM> requests a product number from the first controller <NUM> in S1262. In response to the request from the first wireless communication module <NUM>, the first controller <NUM> transmits a product number of the first indoor unit to the first wireless communication module <NUM> in S1272.

The first wireless communication module <NUM> sets an address of the first indoor unit based on the product number received from the first controller <NUM> in S1282.

For address setting, the second wireless communication module <NUM> requests a product number from the second controller <NUM> in S1263. In response to the request from the second wireless communication module <NUM>, the second controller <NUM> transmits a product number of the second indoor unit to the second wireless communication module <NUM> in S1273.

The second wireless communication module <NUM> sets an address of the second indoor unit based on the product number received from the second controller <NUM> in S1283.

The first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module set addresses of the indoor units, regardless of temporary addresses, based on received product numbers. In addition, the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module may set the addresses of the indoor units by matching the temporary addresses with the product numbers or by combining the temporary addresses with the product numbers.

The first wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a set address of the first indoor unit to the outdoor unit (the outdoor-unit wireless communication module) In S1291, and the second wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a set address of the second indoor unit to the outdoor unit (the outdoor-unit wireless communication module) in S1292.

The first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module transmit the addresses of the indoor units to the outdoor unit based on the temporary addresses.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> stores the received addresses of the first indoor unit and the second unit in S1300. When addresses are completely set for all units, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> completes address setting.

When addresses are completely set for all units, the outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> discards temporary addresses.

The outdoor-unit wireless communication module <NUM> transmits a signal for informing completion of address setting to the outdoor-unit controller <NUM> in S1310.

Since completion of address setting is informed, the outdoor-unit controller <NUM> terminates address setting in S1320.

Accordingly, the present invention allows a plurality of units to wirelessly communicate with each other based on set addresses.

The present invention may newly or additionally install a device provided with a wireless communication module, check a current channel use amount and use of each channel over a limited range of wireless communication channels, and set a channel not being used or having low load as a wireless communication channel.

According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to automatically set an optimal communication channel.

In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to create a high-quality wireless communication environment.

In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an air conditioner system, which allows units to wirelessly communicate directly with each other regardless of an installation environment, and a control method of the system.

An electronic device (unit), a mobile terminal, and an air conditioner system according to the method of the present invention are not limitedly applicable to the configurations and methods of the embodiments as described above. For example, all or some of the embodiments may be selectively combined to achieve various modifications, as long as whithin the scope of the claims.

Claim 1:
A control method of an air conditioner system which comprises one or more wireless communication network groups each comprising an outdoor unit (<NUM>) and a plurality of indoor units (<NUM>), the method comprising:
receiving (S710), by one of an outdoor unit (<NUM>) and a plurality of indoor units (<NUM>) which belong to a particular group, an auto address setting command or an auto communication channel setting command;
transmitting (S720), by the outdoor unit (<NUM>) belonging to the particular group, a channel scan start command to the plurality of indoor units (<NUM>) belonging to the particular group;
performing (S730) a channel scan by each of the outdoor unit (<NUM>) and the plurality of indoor units (<NUM>);
transmitting (S740), by the plurality of indoor units (<NUM>), channel scan results to the outdoor unit (<NUM>);
determining (S750), by the outdoor unit (<NUM>), a channel for use of the particular group based on a result of a channel scan performed by the outdoor unit (<NUM>) and the channel scan results received from the plurality of indoor units (<NUM>); and
outputting (S760), by the outdoor unit, information on the determined channel to the plurality of indoor units;
wherein the determining of a channel for use comprises, when there is only one channel having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, determining that the channel having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>% is the channel for use,
wherein the determining of a channel for use comprises, when there is a plurality of channels having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, determining that a channel with a greatest difference in a load occupancy rate from an adjacent channel from among the plurality of channels having the load occupancy rate of <NUM>% is the channel for use,
wherein the determining of a channel for use comprises, when there is no channel having a load occupancy rate of <NUM>%, determining that a channel having a lowest load occupancy rate due to other device not included in the air conditioner system is the channel for use.