WO2007032594A2

WO2007032594A2 - Air-conditioner and method for controlling the same

Info

Publication number: WO2007032594A2
Application number: PCT/KR2006/002518
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ju Young Cha; Jeong Hwa Yang; Kyung Sik Kim
Original assignee: Lg Electronics Inc.
Priority date: 2005-07-01
Filing date: 2006-06-28
Publication date: 2007-03-22
Also published as: EP1910748A2; WO2007032594A3

Abstract

An air-conditioner and a method for controlling the same are disclosed. The air-conditioner has a specific function for providing a user with a guide to usages of the air-conditioner, such that it displays the stored user manual on the display. The user manual is displayed on the display of the air-conditioner in the form of images, and is audibly outputted via a sound output unit. The air-conditioner includes a trouble-shooting function. Therefore, if an erroneous or faulty operation occurs during the operation time of the air-conditioner, the user can properly cope with the erroneous or faulty operation of the air-conditioner using the trouble-shooting function by himself or herself.

Description

AIR-CONDITIONER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE

SAME

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to an air-conditioner, and more particularly to an air- conditioner for displaying a user manual for an album and a user manual for a manufactured product (i.e., the air-conditioner) in the form of an electronic book (e-book), whereby a user can check the occurrence of an erroneous state of the manufactured product by himself or herself, and properly cope with the erroneous state, and a method for controlling the same.

Background Art

[2] Generally, an air-conditioner is arranged at any indoor space or wall of an office or household, and acts as a heating/cooling device for heating/cooling room air. The air- conditioner includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, such that it configures a cooling cycle. In this case, the compressor, the condenser, the expansion valve, and the evaporator are sequentially connected.

[3] Specifically, the air-conditioner includes an outdoor unit (i.e., an outdoor or heat- radiation side) arranged outdoors and an indoor unit (i.e., an indoor or heat-absorbing side) arranged indoors. The outdoor unit includes a condenser (i.e., an outdoor heat- exchanger) and a compressor. The indoor unit includes an evaporator (i.e., an indoor heat-exchanger).

[4] As well known to those skilled in the art, the air-conditioner is generally classified into a separation-type air-conditioner wherein an indoor unit and an outdoor unit are installed separately from each other, and an integration-type air-conditioner wherein an indoor unit and an outdoor unit are integrated in one unit.

[5] FIG. 1 shows the appearance of an indoor unit for use in a conventional separation- type air-conditioner.

[6] Referring to FIG. 1, the separation-type air-conditioner is divided into an indoor unit 10 and an outdoor unit (not shown), and includes a refrigerant pipe (not shown) located between the indoor unit 10 and the outdoor unit.

[7] Lateral- and back- appearances of the indoor unit 10 are formed by a cabinet 20 configured in the form of a vertically-elongated shape. A base 22 is located under the cabinet 20, and a front panel 24 forming a front frame of the indoor unit 10 is located on the top of the base 22.

[8] A display 30 for displaying operation states of the air-conditioner is located at the center part of the front panel 24. A button unit 32 composed of a variety of buttons for operating the air-conditioner is located at a lateral surface of the display 30.

[9] The display 30 is generally comprised of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Therefore, the display 30 is switched on when the air-conditioner is powered on, such that it displays operation states of the air-conditioner. If the air-conditioner is powered off, the display 30 is switched off.

[10] In more detail, the display 30 displays the direction of the wind and strength/ weakness degrees of the wind as shown in FIG. 1. In addition, the display 30 displays a room temperature and a desired temperature. In other words, the display 30 externally displays air-conditioner state information established by a user using the LEDs.

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[11] However, the above-mentioned conventional air-conditioner has the following problems.

[12] The display 30 switches on or off a screen image composed of LEDs, such that it can statically display a current temperature or operation state. Therefore, a user has difficulty in recognizing an air-conditioning state or air-cleaning state of the air- conditioner, such that the conventional air-conditioner is unable to provide the user with information other than the air-conditioner state information or additional functions.

[13] For example, the above-mentioned conventional air-conditioner has not stored data of a user manual for the manufactured product (i.e., the air-conditioner) in an internal memory, such that it is unable to display the data of the user manual on the display 30. Therefore, a manufacturer or manufacturing company of the air-conditioner must pre- manufacture an additional paper user manual when the air-conditioner comes onto the market, and must provide a user who buys the air-conditioner with the paper user manual. As a result, if the user desires to learn one of a variety of usages of the air- conditioner, the user must manually search for a specific page describing the desired usage in the user manual, and must read content data of the specific page, resulting in greater inconvenience of the user.

[14] In addition, according to the conventional air-conditioner, the user has difficulty in self-checking/coping with problems encountered when the air-conditioner is used.

[15] That is, the conventional air-conditioner does not have a specific function which can provide the user with a solution of the aforementioned problems via the display 30, such that the user must search for desired data in an additional user manual, or must directly query an after-sale service (A/S) center for the solution of the corresponding problem. Technical Solution [16] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to an air-conditioner and a method for controlling the same that substantially obviate one or more problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

[17] An object of the present invention devised to solve the problem lies on an air- conditioner for displaying a user manual for an album and a user manual for a manufactured product (i.e., the air-conditioner) in the form of an electronic book (e-book), such that it allows a user to recognize data of the user manuals of the album and the product.

[18] Another object of the present invention devised to solve the problem lies on a method for controlling an air-conditioner which allows the user to self-check the occurrence of an erroneous state of the manufactured product by himself or herself, such that the user can properly cope with the erroneous state.

[19] A further object of the present invention devised to solve the problem lies on an air-conditioner for visually or audibly informing the user of a variety of usages of the air-conditioner.

[20] A further object of the present invention devised to solve the problem lies on an air- conditioner for displaying usages of the air-conditioner step by step, such that the user can recognize the usages of the air-conditioner.

[21] The object of the present invention can be achieved by providing an air-conditioner comprising: a memory for storing a user manual of the air-conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual stored in the memory; and a controller for displaying the content data of the user manual stored in the memory on the display according to a user selection signal, wherein the user manual is configured in the form of an electronic book (e-book), and is displayed by an e-book viewer program.

[22] Preferably, the user manual configured in the form of an e-book includes: a product user manual for describing usages of the air-conditioner; and an album user manual for describing usages of an album function capable of storing/editing a variety of photo- images.

[23] Preferably, the product user manual includes: a "Before Use" menu for describing sub-items that must be recognized by a user prior to an operation time of the air- conditioner; a "Current Use" menu for describing user setup items that must be established by the user during the operation time of the air-conditioner; an "After Use" menu for describing user handling actions that must be executed by the user after the operation time of the air-conditioner; and a "Product Installation/Recognize" menu for describing installation methods of the air-conditioner and other product information.

[24] Preferably, the "Before Use" menu includes: a "Caution for Safety" menu for describing caution matters capable of preventing the occurrence of an accident; a "Names of Individual Units" menu for describing names of individual units of the air- conditioner; and a "Remote-controller usage" menu for informing the user of an operation method of a remote-controller of the air-conditioner.

[25] Preferably, the "Current Use" menu includes: a "Cooling-mode" menu for indicating a method for cooling room air; a "Temperature-Control" menu for indicating a method for establishing a desired temperature; a "Wind-Control" menu for adjusting the direction of wind generated from the air-conditioner; and an "Additional-function" menu for indicating a plurality of additional function setup methods.

[26] Preferably, the "After Use" menu includes: a "Filter-cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a variety of filters; a "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a plasma clean system; a "HEPA (High Efficiency Particular Air) - filter exchange method" menu for describing a method for exchanging a HEPA filter; a "Keeping method" menu for describing instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used; and a "Check Point before contacting A/ S center" menu for allowing the user to self-check an erroneous state of the air- conditioner, such that the user can properly cope with the erroneous state by himself or herself.

[27] Preferably, the "Product Installation/Recognize" menu includes: an "Installation

Method" menu for describing installation information of the air-conditioner; an "About Customer Service" menu for describing after-sale service (A/S) information; a "Product Guarantee/Customer Card" item for describing a product guarantee of the air- conditioner and a form of a customer card; a "Household- appliance Waste Treatment" menu for describing a method for treating/discarding an old household appliance; a "Packing-box Waste Information (Info)" menu for describing a method for processing a packing box after the installation of the air-condition; a "Caution matters of Refrigerant" menu for describing caution matters of the user when the user exchanges a refrigerant or additionally adds the refrigerant; and a "Product Specification" menu for describing overall product information, for example, a model name and cooling capacity of the air-conditioner.

[28] Preferably, the album user manual includes: a "Photo-album construction" menu which describes a method for guiding the user to construct a photo-album using photo- images captured by a camera; and an "Environment Setup" menu which describes a method for establishing environments of the air-conditioner.

[29] Preferably, the "Environment Setup" menu includes: a "Screen-saver" menu which describes a method for setting a photo-image contained in the photo-album to a screen- saver image; an "Operation-mode" menu which describes a method for setting an image to be displayed on the display during the operation of the air-conditioner; a "Stop-mode setup" menu which describes a method for determining which information will be displayed on the display when the air-conditioner stops operation; an "Alarm setup" menu which describes a method for directing the user to establish a desired alarm time; a "Date/time setup" menu which describes a method for allowing the user to set a date and time to be displayed on the display; and a "Sound effect setup/ brightness setup" menu which describes a method for setting a button sound effect and a screen brightness.

[30] Preferably, the e-book viewer program includes a plurality of icons, such that the user can easily search for desired data in the user manual using the icons.

[31] Preferably, the e-book viewer program includes: a "Zoom- in" icon for zooming in on content data of the user manual displayed on the display, and a "Zoom-out" icon for zooming out from the content data of the user manual; a "Pre-page" icon returning a previous page of a currently-displayed page, and a "Next-page" icon going to the next page of the currently-displayed page; a hot-key icon for allowing the user to directly go to a user-selected part; and a direction-key icon for moving a focal point of a displayed image.

[32] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air-conditioner comprising: a memory for storing a user manual file indicating an operation method of the air-conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual file stored in the memory; and a controller for displaying the content data of the user manual file stored in the memory on the display according to a user selection signal.

[33] Preferably, the user manual file is classified according to a plurality of menus, such that the classified data is displayed according to individual menus selected by the user.

[34] Preferably, the plurality of menus include: a "Names of Individual Units" menu for describing names of individual units of the air-conditioner; an "Operation Guide" menu for describing a method for directing the user to operate the air-conditioner step by step; a "Cleaning Guide" menu for describing a method for cleaning the air- conditioner; a "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu for describing check points that must be checked by the user when a faulty or erroneous state occurs in the air-conditioner; and a "Caution for safety" menu for describing caution matters that must be followed to prevent the occurrence of an unexpected accident.

[35] Preferably, the "Names of Individual Units" menu includes: an "Indoor-Unit" menu for indicating an indoor unit of the air-conditioner, and an "Outdoor-Unit" menu for indicating an outdoor unit of the air-conditioner; a "Control" menu equipped with buttons of the air-conditioner; and a "Remote-Controller" menu for wirelessly controlling the air-conditioner.

[36] Preferably, the "Operation Guide" menu includes: a "Cooling-mode" menu for indicating a method for cooling room air; a "Temperature-Control" menu for indicating a method for setting a desired temperature; a "Wind-Control" menu for controlling the direction of the wind generated from the air-conditioner; and an "Additional function" menu for indicating a method for setting a plurality of additional functions.

[37] Preferably, the "Wind-Control" menu includes: a "Left/right wind-direction control" menu for indicating a left/right control method of the wind; an "Up/down wind- direction control" menu for indicating an up/down control method of the wind; and a "Wind-volume Control" menu for controlling the volume of the wind.

[38] Preferably, the "Additional function" menu includes: an "Artificial Intelligence" menu for automatically detecting a room temperature, such that it operates the air- conditioner at a user-desired condition; a "Dehumidifying Operation" menu which effectively removes moisture from the air at a high-humidity date, and at the same time performs the cooling mode; a "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu for describing a method for intensively cooling room air within a short period of time; a "Digital Power-saving Cooling" menu which performs a pleasant cooling mode suitable for a biorhythm of the user, or cools only a necessary area; a "3D (3-dimensional) air-cleaning system" menu for describing a method for establishing a 3D air-cleaning operation mode; a "Simple Reservation" menu which describes a method for establishing a reservation time, such that the air-conditioner is operated during a user-desired time, and is then automatically powered off after the lapse of the user-desired time; a "Current-time Setting" menu for directing the user to easily establish a current time; a "Power-on Reservation" menu for describing a method for automatically powering on the air- conditioner at a user-desired reservation time; and a "Power-off Reservation" menu for describing a method for automatically powering off the air-conditioner at a user- desired reservation time.

[39] Preferably, the "Cleaning Guide" menu includes: a "Filter-cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a variety of filters using a vacuum cleaner or a brush; a "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a plasma cleaning system; a "HEPA (High Efficiency Particular Air) - filter exchange method" menu for describing a method for exchanging a HEPA filter; and a "Keeping method" menu for describing instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used.

[40] Preferably, the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu includes: a

"Symptom" menu for describing a variety of erroneous states of the air-conditioner; a "Check" menu for describing symptoms' check points that must be checked by the user; and an "Item of Measures" menu for describing a variety of measures that must be handled by the user after the "Symptom" and "Check" menus are executed.

[41] Preferably, the "Caution for Safety" menu includes: a "Warning" menu for describing a plurality of dangerous cases in which the user is seriously injured or die by violating instructions; and a "Caution" menu for describing a plurality of cases in which the user is physically injured or be financially damaged by violating caution matters.

[42] Preferably, if content data of the user manual is displayed on the display, a current page including the content data is shifted to another page by a user's button clicking.

[43] Preferably, after content data of the user manual is displayed, a current page returns to an initial screen image by a user's button clicking.

[44] In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air-conditioner comprising: a memory for storing a user manual equipped with usages of the air- conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual stored in the memory; a sound output unit for audibly outputting the content data of the user manual stored in the memory; and a controller for outputting the content data of the user manual stored in the memory via at least one of the display and the sound output unit.

[45] Preferably, the user manual is displayed on the display upon receiving an interrupt request.

[46] Preferably, the user manual is displayed on the display according to a user command although the air-conditioner is in an operation mode or a stop mode.

[47] Preferably, the user manual is divided into a plurality of items according to a plurality of stages, such that it is hierarchically displayed on the display according to individual stages.

[48] Preferably, the plurality of stages include: a first stage for displaying a plurality of menus; a second stage for allowing the user to select any one of the menus; and a third stage for displaying content data of a user-selected menu.

[49] In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling an air-conditioner comprising the steps of: a) displaying a symptom list associated with a faulty or erroneous symptom of the air-conditioner; b) displaying a check point associated with a corresponding symptom; and c) displaying a solution point associated with the corresponding symptom.

[50] Preferably, the method further comprises the step of: d) determining whether the faulty or erroneous symptom of the air-conditioner is equal to any symptom contained in the symptom list, wherein that the step d) is located between the step a) and the step b).

[51] Preferably, the method further comprises the step of: e) determining whether a current faulty or erroneous state is equal to any check point contained in a check list, wherein that the step e) is located between the step b) and the step c).

[52] Preferably, the method further comprises the step of: if the faulty or erroneous symptom is not equal to any symptom contained in the symptom list, informing the user of a phone number of an after-sale-service (A/S) center.

[53] Preferably, the method further comprising the step of: if the faulty or erroneous symptom is not equal to any check point contained in a check list, informing the user of a phone number of an after-sale-service (A/S) center.

[54] Preferably, the symptom list, individual items of the check point, and individual items of the solution point are audibly outputted.

Advantageous Effects

[55] The air-conditioner according to the present invention displays a user manual of the air-conditioner in the form of an e-book (electronic book). In other words, the usages of the air-conditioner and the usages of an album function are stored in the form of e- book, such that they are displayed on a display by an e-book viewer program.

[56] Therefore, the user can view the aforementioned usages of the album function and the air-conditioner via a display of the air-conditioner as if the user were viewing a paper user manual, such that the user easily recognizes the usages of the air- conditioner and becomes familiar with the user manual.

[57] The air-conditioner according to the present invention has a specific function for providing a user with a guide to usages of the air-conditioner. The user manual is stored in a memory of the air-conditioner in the form of a file, and the stored user manual is displayed on a display, such that the user can easily search for the usages of the air-conditioner in the stored user manual.

[58] The user manual can be displayed on the display of the air-conditioner in the form of images, and can be audibly outputted via a sound output unit. Therefore, the user can visually and audibly recognize the usages of the air-conditioner.

[59] The air-conditioner allows the user to freely view the user manual of the air- conditioner using an interrupt request signal. Although the user views the user manual of the air-conditioner, a current display screen of the air-conditioner returns to an initial display screen at any time, such that the user can conveniently and easily view the user manual of the air-conditioner at any time.

[60] The user manual of the air-conditioner is divided into a plurality of sections according to individual items, and is classified into a plurality of sub-sections according to individual stages, such that the user can search for a desired section in the user manual. If the user presses a specific button "Return", a current display screen of the air-conditioner immediately returns to an initial display screen. Therefore, if the user can easily search for desired usage data in the user manual of the air-conditioner.

[61] The air-conditioner according to the present invention includes a trouble-shooting function. Therefore, if an erroneous or faulty operation occurs during the operation time of the air-conditioner, the user can properly cope with the erroneous or faulty operation of the air-conditioner using the trouble-shooting function by himself or herself. If a corresponding erroneous or faulty operation is not displayed on the display of the air-conditioner in the form of a list, the air-conditioner directs the user to com- municate with the A/S center.

[62] In conclusion, the air-conditioner according to the present invention allows the user to self-check/solve the erroneous or faulty operation of the air-conditioner using questions and answers, resulting in greater convenience of the user. Brief Description of the Drawings

[63] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principle of the invention.

[64] In the drawings:

[65] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an indoor unit of a conventional separation- type air-conditioner;

[66] FIG. 2 shows the appearance of an indoor unit of an air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[67] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an open state of a front panel of an indoor unit of the air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[68] FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating a detailed configuration of a button unit mounted to a front panel of an indoor unit of the air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[69] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a control system of the air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[70] FIG. 6 shows a variety of display modes displayed on a display window in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[71] FIGS. 7 and 8 is a flow chart illustrating a display control method of an air- conditioner according to the present invention;

[72] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of a product user manual stored in an air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[73] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of an album user manual stored in the air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[74] FIG. 11 shows a display state of the product user manual displayed by an e-book viewer according to the present invention;

[75] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of the user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[76] FIG. 13 shows a display screen image displayed when a user selects a user manual stored in an air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[77] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method for displaying a user manual stored in an air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[78] FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Names of individual units" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[79] FIGS. 16 and 17 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air- conditioner when a user selects the "Operation Guide" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[80] FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Cleaning Guide" menu from among a user manual stored in the air- conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[81] FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[82] FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Caution for Safety" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[83] FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating a remote-controller for use in an air-conditioner according to the present invention;

[84] FIG. 22 is a flow chart illustrating a method for displaying a user manual stored in an air-conditioner upon receiving an interrupt signal in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[85] FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user presses the "Reset" button of the remote-controller shown in FIG. 21 according to the present invention;

[86] FIG. 24 is a table illustrating contents of the "Helper" menu of an air-conditioner in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[87] FIG. 25 shows a display state of an additional function mode for displaying the

"Solution" icon capable of performing a trouble-shooting function in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[88] FIG. 26 shows a display state of the "Symptom" menu when a trouble-shooting function is executed in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[89] FIG. 27 shows a display state of the "Check Item" menu when a trouble- shooting function is executed in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[90] FIG. 28 shows a display state of the "Item Of Measures" menu when a troubleshooting function is executed in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[91] FIG. 29 is a flow chart illustrating an initial process of a trouble- shooting function of an air-conditioner in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[92] FIG. 30 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the first symptom "Symptom I" shown in FIG. 29 according to the present invention; and

[93] FIG. 31 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the second symptom "Symptom II" shown in FIG. 29 according to the present invention. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[94] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[95] FIG. 2 shows the appearance of an indoor unit of an air-conditioner according to the present invention.

[96] Referring to FIG. 2, the air-conditioner includes an indoor unit 100 and an outdoor unit (not shown). A front panel 110 is located at the front of the indoor unit 100. The front panel 110 is configured in the form of a vertically-elongated shape, such that it acts as a front frame of the indoor unit 100.

[97] A hinge 112 is located at right upper/lower ends of the front panel 110, such that it serves as a rotation center of the front panel 110. Therefore, the front panel 110 rotates in a counterclockwise direction on the basis of a right end of the front panel 110, such that it can be opened from the indoor unit 100.

[98] A display window 120 is located at the center of an upper part of the front panel

110. The display window 120 displays at least one avatar. Preferably, the display window 120 may be implemented with a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), etc.

[99] A button unit 130 is located under the display window 120. The button unit 130 includes a plurality of operation buttons such as a power-supply button, such that a user can easily adjust a variety of operations of the air-conditioner.

[100] A remote-controller receiver 140 is located under the button unit 130. The remote- controller receiver 140 receives signals from the remote-controller.

[101] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an open state of the front panel 110 of the indoor unit 100 of the air-conditioner.

[102] As can be seen from FIG. 3, the front panel 110 rotates around an axis of the hinge 112, such that it is opened from the indoor unit.

[103] A display unit 150 is located at a back surface of the front panel 110. The display unit 150 includes a plurality of components for controlling images (e.g., a variety of avatars) displayed on the display window 120, etc.

[104] The display unit 150 further includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mounting unit

152. A USB memory 160 is selectively mounted to the USB mounting unit 152. Therefore, the display unit 150 can easily receive external data via the USB memory 160.

[105] Needless to say, data can be downloaded from the USB memory 160 or a variety of mobile recording mediums, or can also be transmitted to a destination via the USB memory 160 or the mobile recording mediums. Likewise, the display unit 150 may download data via the Internet if required.

[106] For example, data can also be transmitted to a destination via an IEEE1394 port instead of the USB memory 160.

[107] In the meantime, an air-cleaning unit 170 for filtering impurities or alien substances from the air so as to clean the air is located at an inner lower part of the indoor unit 100. A plurality of filters are located at the air-cleaning unit 170, such that a variety of impurities (e.g., dust or unpleasant odorous particles, etc.) are filtered by the filters of the air-cleaning unit 170.

[108] A plurality of components (e.g., a heat-exchanger) (not shown) for air-conditioning functions (e.g., a cooling function and a heating function) are contained in the indoor unit 100. Functions and configurations of the above-mentioned components are well known to those skilled in the art, such that they will herein be omitted for the convenience of description.

[109] A speaker 180 is located at one side of the display 150. In more detail, the speaker

180 for outputting sound to an external part is mounted at the backside of the display 150. The speaker 180 outputs music or sound data to the external part.

[110] FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating a detailed configuration of a button unit mounted to a front panel of an indoor unit of the air-conditioner according to the present invention.

[I l l] A detailed configuration of the button unit 130 is depicted in FIG. 4. Individual keys contained in the button unit 130 may be implemented in various ways, for example, a press-button scheme or a touch-screen scheme, etc.

[112] An operation/stop button 132 is located at the center of the button unit 130.

[113] The operation/stop key 132 is adapted to perform or stop an air-conditioning function of the air-conditioner. In more detail, the operation/stop key 132 is used as a key for powering on the air-conditioner when the air-conditioning function of the air- conditioner has stopped its operation. The operation/stop key 132 is used as a key for powering off the air-conditioner when the air-conditioning function of the air- conditioner is being performed.

[114] The air-conditioner according to the present invention further includes an additional function such as an air-conditioning function. Generally, the air-conditioner mainly performs the air-conditioning function to cool/heat room air via a heat-exchanging operation. A first case in which the air-conditioning function of the air-conditioner is executed is called an "Operation". A second case in which the air-conditioning function of the air-conditioner is not executed is called a "Stop".

[115] Two temperature keys 134 are located above or below the operation/stop key 132.

[116] Each temperature key 134 acts as a button for setting a temperature state. The upper temperature button acts as a button for increasing a temperature, and the lower temperature button acts as a button for reducing the temperature.

[117] The temperature key 134 is not operated while the air-conditioner has stopped its operation. Specifically, the temperature key 134 is used as a key for increasing/ reducing the temperature during an operation mode (e.g., a character operation mode), but it should be noted that the temperature key 134 is used as an up/down movement key during a specific function selection mode (e.g., an album function).

[118] In the meantime, two volume keys 135 are located at right and left sides of the operation/stop key 132, respectively, and adjust the volume of sound. In other words, the volume keys 135 adjust the volume of sound outputted via a speaker (not shown) contained in the indoor unit 100 of the air-conditioner. The left volume key 135 acts as a button for reducing the volume of sound, and the right volume key 135 acts as a button for increasing the volume of sound. The volume key 135 also acts as a right/left movement key such as the temperature key 134.

[119] A wind- volume key 136 is located at a left lower end of the button unit 130. The wind- volume key 136 is used as a key for setting the volume of wind generated from the air-conditioner. The wind- volume key 136 is operated only when the air- conditioner is operated, and is not operated when the air-conditioner has stopped its operation.

[120] A plasma key 137 is located at a right lower end of the button unit 130. The plasma key 137 is used as a key for operating the air-cleaning unit 170 contained in the air- conditioner. The plasma key 137 is designed to be operated during an operation mode or stop mode of the air-conditioner.

[121] Therefore, the air-cleaning unit 170 performs the air-conditioning function of the air-conditioner, and at the same time cleans air. Also, the air-cleaning unit 170 can operate alone even though the air-conditioner is in the stop mode, such that it cleans room air.

[122] A left key 138 is located at a left upper end of the button unit 130, and a right key 139 is located at a right upper end of the button unit 130.

[123] If the air-conditioner is in the stop mode, the left key 138 and the right key 139 are not operated. If the air-conditioner is in the operation mode, the left key 138 and the right key 139 are adapted to select a variety of menus from among the following function selection modes.

[124] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a control system of the air-conditioner according to the present invention.

[125] As can be seen from FIG. 5, the control system for use in the air-conditioner includes the controller 200 for controlling overall operations of the air-conditioner. A variety of electronic components are connected to the controller 200, such that the controller 200 can receive/transmit variety of data from/to the electronic components.

[126] In more detail, the controller 200 includes a memory 202. The memory 202 is used as a storage medium basically mounted to the air-conditioner, such that it stores variety of data.

[127] The memory 202 stores a variety of documents (e.g., photo-images or avatars

(characters) displayed on the display unit 150. The memory 202 stores a user manual file for informing a user of an operation method of the air-conditioner.

[128] The controller 200 is connected to an input unit 210, a sensor unit 212, a receiver

214, an indoor-unit motor 216, an outdoor-unit motor 218, and a compressor 220, etc.

[129] The input unit 210 allows a user to enter an operation signal of the air-conditioner via the button unit 130. The input signal received via the input unit 210 is transmitted to the controller 200.

[130] The sensor unit 212 includes a plurality of sensors mounted to the air-conditioner, for example, a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a dust sensor, and a gas sensor, etc. Accordingly, the sensor unit 212 measures an air state and an air-pollution level, such that the measurement values detected by the sensor unit 212 are transmitted to the controller 200.

[131] The receiver 214 receives an external signal in the same manner as in the remote- controller receiver 140. A signal received in the receiver 214 is also transmitted to the controller 200. Needless to say, the receiver 214 may also be designed to receive wireless communication data (or signal) from a computer (or the Internet).

[132] The indoor-unit motor 216 is contained in the indoor unit 100 of the air-conditioner, and rotates a fan. The indoor-unit motor 216 is operated by a signal received from the controller 200. For example, if the input unit 210 transmits an input signal of the operation/stop key 132 to the controller 200, the controller 200 operates the indoor-unit motor 216.

[133] The controller 200 controls a rotation speed of the indoor-unit motor 216 on the basis of an air-pollution level received from the sensor unit 212. [134] The compressor 220 and the outdoor-unit motor 218 are operated by the controller

200. In more detail, if a user enters the operation/stop key 132 via the input unit 210 in the same manner as in the indoor-unit motor 216, or if the user enters an operation command via the remote-controller receiver 140, the controller 200 operates the compressor 220 and the outdoor-unit motor 218, etc., such that the air-conditioner is switched from the stop mode to the operation mode.

[135] The controller 200 is also connected to additional devices (e.g., an air-cleaning unit

170 and a sound output unit 222, etc.).

[136] As previously stated above, the air-cleaning unit 170 filters impurities from the air to clean the air. The controller 200 controls operations of the air-cleaning unit 170 upon receiving a signal from the input unit 210. In more detail, as described above, the air-cleaning unit 170 is operated by an input signal of the plasma key 137 contained in the button unit 130.

[137] The controller 200 automatically controls the degree of an air-cleaning operation

(i.e., strength or weakness of the air-cleaning function) of the air-cleaning unit 170. In more detail, the controller 200 detects an air-pollution level (e.g., dust or gas, etc.) measured by the sensor unit 212, and automatically adjusts the strength or weakness of the air-cleaning function of the air-cleaning unit 170 on the basis of the detected air- pollution level.

[138] A sound output unit 222 outputs sound or audio data, and is composed of a speaker, etc., such that it can output variety of sounds (e.g., buzzer sound, melody sound, or music sound, etc.) For example, if an unexpected error occurs in any components of the air-conditioner, the sound output unit 222 outputs buzzer sound or various melody sounds based on individual avatar images. In addition, if a music file is executed, the sound output unit 222 may output music sounds.

[139] The controller 200 controls the display unit 150. In more detail, air-conditioner operation signals such as an input signal of the operation/stop key 132 contained in the input unit 210 are transmitted to the controller 200, such that the controller 200 implements a display screen image suitable for operating the air-conditioner.

[140] A signal received via the input unit 210 is transmitted to the controller 200, such that the sound output unit 222 may output corresponding sound.

[141] The controller 200 controls content data displayed on the display window 120. The controller 200 is connected to the display 230. The controller 200 allows the user manual file stored in the memory 202 to be displayed on the display 230 according to a user selection signal.

[142] The input unit 210 is composed of the button unit 130 or the remote-controller, such that the user can enter a signal for operating the display unit 140 via the input unit 210. The display window 120 of the front panel 110 is comprised of a touch-screen, such that the user may enter a control command by touching the display window 120.

[143] The display 230 displays photo images, moving images, or character images according to commands of the controller 200. Content data of the user manual file stored in the memory 202 is displayed on the display 230.

[144] The input unit is connected to a mobile storage medium such as the USB memory

160, such that it receives data (or signals) from an external part via the USB memory 160. The input unit 210 allows the user to enter a photo or image to be displayed on the display window 120 or a music file (including an MP3 file) to be outputted via the sound output unit 222.

[145] FIG. 6 shows a variety of display modes displayed on a display window in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, a variety of display modes displayed on the display window 120 by the controller 200 are exemplarily shown in FIG. 6.

[146] Referring to FIG. 6, the display modes implemented by the display 256 include a standby mode 300 for indicating a standby state before an air-conditioning function is executed; an operation mode 320 for indicating current execution of the air- conditioning function; and a function selection mode 340 for allowing a user to select a variety of functions, etc.

[147] Generally, the standby mode 300 includes a screen-off mode 302 for displaying no image on a screen; a clock mode 304 for displaying a current time; a screen-saving mode 306 for executing a screen-saver program; and a user setup mode 308 for displaying an image established by a user. Accordingly, the standby mode 300 is designed to display at least one of the above-mentioned modes 302, 304, 306, and 308.

[148] In more detail, at least one of the screen-off mode 302, the clock mode 304, the screen-saving mode 306, and the user setup mode 308 has been generally set in the air- conditioner during a manufacturing process of the air-conditioner. However, if the user transmits a power-supply signal to the air-conditioner, the booting of the standby mode 300 is initially executed, such that the standby mode 300 is displayed on the display window 120.

[149] Needless to say, the setting information of the above-mentioned standby mode 300 may be changed to other information. In more detail, provided that the user may select a desired mode from among the screen-off mode 302, and the clock mode 304, the screen-saving mode 306, and the user setup mode 308, and the booting of the selected mode is executed, the selected mode may also be displayed on the display window 120 via the display 256.

[150] The screen-off mode 302 indicates that the display window 120 is powered off, such that the powered-off state of the display window 120 is maintained during the screen-off mode 302. [151] The clock mode 304 indicates that a current time is displayed on the display window 120. Besides the current time information, the clock mode 304 further indicates month/year information, and at the same time may indicate a measurement value of the temperature sensor or the moisture sensor.

[152] The screen-saving mode 306 executes a predetermined screen-saving program. In more detail, the screen-saving mode 306 indicates that a screen saver is operated. Therefore, the screen-saving mode 306 displays a screen image acquired by the execution of the screen saver widely used for computers.

[153] The user setup mode 308 displays an image pre-established by the user. In other words, the user freely pre-establishes a desired photo-image (i.e., a user's photo-image or a user's family photo-image) or his or her character image during the user setup mode 308, such that the air-conditioner displays the above pre-established image upon receiving a power-supply signal.

[154] The operation mode 320 shows state information of an image implemented by the display 256 when the air-conditioner is operated by the operation/stop key 132 at the standby mode 300. The operation mode 320 is classified into a real-operation mode 322, a user-operation mode 324, and a character operation mode 326, etc.

[155] Therefore, if the air-conditioner is operated, any one of the real-operation mode

322, the user-operation mode 324, and the character operation mode 326 contained in the operation mode 320 is executed. In other words, any one of the user-established modes is executed.

[156] The real-operation mode 322 displays an actual-object image (or a real photo) pre- stored in the memory 202 or the display memory 252. The above-mentioned actual- object image may be comprised of a still image or moving images.

[157] The user operation mode 324 uploads a user-desired image or user-desired moving images to the memory 202. Accordingly, the user selects the uploaded image or moving images, and the selected image or moving images are displayed on the display window 120.

[158] The character operation mode 326 displays a pre-stored character on the display window 120. The above-mentioned character may be configured in the form of a still image or a moving character. For example, if the character operation mode 326 is executed, a skiing character is displayed on the display window 120, and it is preferable for the skiing character to be displayed in the form of moving images.

[159] In the meantime, the above-mentioned operation mode 320 is continuously operated on the condition that an additional key signal for executing another command is not applied to the air-conditioner. If the air-conditioner stops operation in the operation mode 320, the operation mode 320 returns to the standby mode 300. In this case, the air-conditioner may perform an automatic cleaning function 310 when returning to the standby mode 300. However, it should be noted that the above-mentioned automatic- cleaning function 310 can be executed on the condition that it is pre-set in the air- conditioner.

[160] The above-mentioned operation mode 320 may also be switched to the screen- saving mode 306 according to a user command if the user enters no key until reaching a predetermined time after the operation mode 320 has been executed.

[161] If the user enters a predetermined key signal in the screen-saving mode 306, the screen-saving mode is automatically terminated, and returns to the operation mode 320.

[162] The function selection mode 340 allows the user to select/establish a variety of functions of the air-conditioner.

[163] The function selection mode 340 includes an operation/additional function 342 and an album function 344, etc.

[164] The operation/additional function 342 allows the user to establish an operation state and additional functions of the air-conditioner. The album function 344 allows the user to store/edit a variety of pictures.

[165] According to the operation function, the user selects state information (e.g., a cooling or dehumidifying function) of the air-conditioner, and can adjust the volume of wind of the air-conditioner. The operation/additional function 342 has a user manual guide function, and the user manual guide function will be described later.

[166] In the meantime, the pop-up function 360 may be further executed during the above-mentioned individual modes. The pop-up window 360 loads a variety of pop-up windows on the display window 120, such that the user can visually recognize an error state or input key state of the air-conditioner while the above-mentioned individual modes are executed.

[167] The above-mentioned function selection mode 340 may also be switched to the screen-saving mode 306 according to a user command in the same manner as in the operation mode 320. In other words, if the user enters no execution key until reaching a predetermined time after the function selection mode 340 has been executed, the function selection mode 340 is also switched to the screen-saving mode 306.

[168] FIGS. 7 and 8 shows detailed operations of the standby mode 300, the operation mode 320, and the function selection mode 340.

[169] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the controller 200 determines whether a power-supply signal is received in the air-conditioner at step S400. If the power-supply signal is received in the air-conditioner, the air-conditioner executes the standby mode 300 at step S410. Otherwise, if the power-supply signal is not received in the air-conditioner, the air-conditioner executes no action.

[170] It is determined whether the operation/stop key 132 is pressed by the user at step S420. If the user presses the operation/stop key 132 at step S420, a corresponding signal is transmitted to the controller 200, such that the air-conditioner is operated at step S421. In other words, the controller 200 operates air-conditioner components (e.g., an indoor-unit motor 216 or an outdoor-unit motor 218), resulting in the implementation of air-conditioning effect of room air at step S421.

[171] Otherwise, if the operation/stop key 132 is not pressed by the user at step S420, it is determined whether the plasma key 137 is pressed at step S430. If the plasma key 137 is pressed by the user at step S430, a corresponding signal is transmitted to the controller 200, and operates the air-cleaning unit 170, resulting in the implementation of an air-cleaning function at step S432.

[172] It is determined whether the stop key is pressed at step S434 while the air-cleaning function is executed by the air-cleaning unit 170. If the stop key is pressed, a corresponding signal is transmitted to the controller 200, such that the air-cleaning unit 170 stops operation at step S436. In this case, the stop key indicates the plasma key 137 pressed by the user. In other words, if the user presses the plasma key 137 once, the air-cleaning unit 170 starts operation. Under this condition, if the plasma key 137 is re-pressed by the user, the air-cleaning unit 170 stops operation.

[173] If the air-conditioning function is executed at step 421, the operation mode 320 is executed on the display window 120 at step 440.

[174] If the operation mode is executed at step S440, the memory 202 sets a time (T) to zero as denoted by "T=O" at step 460. It is determined whether a specific function key (e.g., the left key 138 or the right key 139) is pressed via the button unit 130.

[175] If the function key is pressed at step S462, the function selection mode 340 is executed at step S480. Otherwise, if the function key is not pressed at step S462, it is determined whether the operation/stop key 132 is pressed at step S464.

[176] If the operation/stop key 132 is not pressed, the air-conditioner reads the time value stored in the memory 202 at step S466, such that it determines whether the stored time value T is equal to or higher than the time setup value (e.g., 5 minutes) established by the environment setup process at step S468.

[177] If the time value T is equal to or higher than the time setup value at step S468, the air-conditioner executes the screen-saving mode 306 at step S470. If a specific key is pressed, the screen-saving mode 306 is closed at step S474.

[178] If the function selection mode is executed at step S480, the memory 202 reestablishes a time. In more detail, the time is set to zero as denoted by "T=O" at step S530. It is determined whether the right key 139 acting as a function close key is pressed via the button unit 130 at step S532.

[179] If the right key 139 acting as the function close key is pressed at step S532, the current mode returns to the operation mode. Otherwise, if the right key 139 is not pressed at step S532, it is determined whether the operation/stop key 132 is pressed at step S534.

[180] If the operation/stop key 132 is not pressed, the air-conditioner reads the time value stored in the memory 202 at step S536, such that it determines whether the stored time value T is equal to or higher than the time setup value (e.g., 5 minutes) established by the environment setup process at step S538.

[181] If the time value T is equal to or higher than the time setup value at step S538, the air-conditioner executes the screen-saving mode 306 at step S540. If a specific key is pressed, the screen-saving mode 306 is closed at step S544.

[182] It is determined whether the operation/stop key 132 is pressed at steps S464 and

S534. If the operation/stop key 132 is pressed, the controller 200 stops operation of the air-conditioner, such that the air-conditioning function stops operation at step S550.

[183] If the air-conditioner stops operation, an automatic cleaning function is executed at step S552. Needless to say, the automatic cleaning function can be executed when it is pre-established in the air-conditioner by the user.

[184] Thereafter, it is determined whether a power-off state is established at step S560. If the power-off state is established at step S560, all operations of the display are closed at step S570. Otherwise, if the power-off state is not established at step S560, the current mode returns to the standby mode.

[185] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of a product user manual stored in an air-conditioner according to the present invention. In more detail, individual menus of the "Product User Manual" item contained in the user manual guide function contained in the operation/additional function 342 are shown in FIG. 9.

[186] Referring to FIG. 9, the memory 202 stores a user manual of the air-conditioner.

The user manual is stored/displayed in the form of an electronic book (e-book). The above-mentioned e-book includes a product user manual and an album user manual. The product user manual and the album user manual are stored in the form of digital files, respectively.

[187] The above-mentioned e-book is indicative of the next-generation book configured in the form of a digital file instead of a paper file. In other words, the e-book acting as one of digital content services is indicative of a digitized book composed of Internet standard languages (e.g., HTML and XML), such that the user can read content data of the e-book using a viewer program stored in the user's Personal Computer (PC) or terminal.

[188] Therefore, the e-book is displayed on the display 230 according to a user selection signal, such that it provides the user with the user manual of the air-conditioner and the user manual of the album function.

[189] As can be seen from FIG. 9, content data of the "Product User Manual" file is divided into a plurality of menus, such that individual menus are displayed on the display according to user selection signals.

[190] Therefore, the "Product User Manual" item is mainly classified into the "Before

Use" menu 350, the "Current Use" menu 360, the "After Use" menu 370, and the "Product Installation/Recognize" menu 390, etc.

[191] In more detail, the "Product User Manual" item includes usage data of the air- conditioner. The usage data of the air-conditioner is classified into the "Before Use" menu 350 composed of sub-items that must be recognized by the user prior to the operation time of the air-conditioner, the "Current Use" menu 360 composed of user setup items that must be established by the user during the operation time of the air- conditioner, the "After Use" menu 370 composed of user handling actions that must be executed by the user after the operation time of the air-conditioner, and the "Product Installation/Recognize" menu 390 composed of installation methods of the air- conditioner and other product information.

[192] The "Before Use" menu 350 includes the "Caution for Safety" menu 352 for describing caution matters capable of preventing the occurrence of an accident; the "Names of Individual Units" menu 354 for describing names of individual units of the air-conditioner; and the "Remote-controller usage" menu 356 for informing a user of an operation method of the remote-controller of the air-conditioner, etc.

[193] The "Caution for Safety" menu 352 for the safe and correct uses of the air- conditioner describes user's caution matters to prevent an unexpected accident or damage from occurring, and includes the "Warning" menu 352a and the "Caution" menu 352b.

[194] The "Warning" menu 352a describes a plurality of dangerous cases in which the user may be seriously injured or die by violating instructions. The "Caution" menu 352b describes a plurality of cases in which the user may be physically injured or be financially damaged by violating caution matters.

[195] The "Names of Individual Units" menu 354 describes names of individual units of the air-conditioner. The "Names of Individual Units" menu 354 includes a plurality of sub-menus, for example, an indoor-unit menu 354a, an outdoor-unit menu 354b, and a control menu 354c equipped with control buttons of the air-conditioner.

[196] The "Remote-controller usage" menu 356 includes the "Keeping Method" menu

356a, the "Battery Insert Method" menu 356b, and the "Caution Matters" 356c, etc.

[197] The "Current Use" menu 360 describes a method for establishing the air-conditioner so as to begin operations of the air-conditioner when a user operates the air-conditioner according to instructions displayed on the display 230.

[198] The "Current Use" menu 360 includes the "Cooling-mode" menu 362 for indicating a method for cooling room air; the "Temperature-Control" menu 364 for indicating a method for establishing a desired temperature; the "Wind-Control" menu 366 for adjusting the direction of wind generated from the air-conditioner; and the "Additional- function" menu 368 for indicating a plurality of additional function setup methods.

[199] The cooling-mode menu 362 describes a method for controlling the air-conditioner when a user desires to cool room air.

[200] The "Temperature-Control" menu 364 directs the user to easily establish a desired temperature.

[201] The "Wind-Control" menu 366 directs the user to establish the volume of wind and the direction of wind. The "Wind-Control" menu 366 is classified into the "Left/right wind-direction control" menu 366a for indicating a left/right control method of the wind; the "Up/down wind-direction control" menu 366b for indicating an up/down control method of the wind; and the "Wind- volume Control" menu 366c for controlling the volume of the wind, etc.

[202] The "Left/right wind-direction Control" menu 366a describes a method for horizontally controlling the direction of the wind. The "Up/down wind-direction Control" menu 366b describes a method for vertically controlling the direction of the wind. The "Wind-volume Control" menu 366c describes a method for controlling the volume of wind generated from the air-conditioner, such that the user can set the volume of wind to a strong mode, a power mode, or a weak mode, etc., using the "Wind- volume Control" menu 366c.

[203] The "Additional-function" menu 368 includes the "Artificial Intelligence" menu

368a, the "Dehumidifying Operation" menu 368b, the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu 368c, the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu 368d, the "3D (three-dimensional) air- cleaning system" menu 368e, the "Simple Reservation" menu 368f, the "Current-time Setting" menu 368g, the "Power-on Reservation" menu 368h, and the "Power-off Reservation" menu 368i, etc.

[204] The "Artificial Intelligence" menu 368a allows the sensor unit 212 to automatically detect a room temperature, and operates the air-conditioner, such that it operates the air-conditioner at a user-desired condition.

[205] The "Dehumidifying Operation" menu 368b effectively removes moisture from the air at a high-humidity day, and at the same time performs the cooling mode. The "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu 368c describes a method for intensively cooling room air within a short period of time.

[206] The "Digital Power-saving Cooling" menu 368d performs a pleasant cooling mode suitable for a biorhythm of the user, or cools only a necessary area, such that it can save electricity costs.

[207] The "3D air-cleaning system" menu 368e describes a method for establishing a 3D air-cleaning operation to clean the room air. [208] The "Simple Reservation" menu 368f describes a method for establishing a reservation time, such that the air-conditioner is operated during a user-desired time, and is then automatically powered off after the lapse of the user-desired time.

[209] The "Current-time Setting" menu 368g directs the user to easily establish a current time.

[210] The "Power-on Reservation" menu 368h and the "Power-off Reservation" menu

368i control the air-conditioner to be automatically powered on or off at a reservation time desired by the user.

[211] The "After Use" menu 370 describes management items that must be executed after the air-conditioner is operated. In more detail, the "After Use" menu 370 describes a method for sequentially cleaning inner areas of the air-conditioner. In other words, the "After Use" menu 370 includes the "Filter-cleaning" menu 372, the "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu 374, the "HEPA (High Efficiency Particular Air) - filter exchange method" menu 376, the "Keeping method" menu 378, and the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 380.

[212] The "Filter-cleaning" menu 372 describes a method for cleaning a variety of filters

(e.g., a pre-filter (not shown)) using a vacuum cleaner or a brush. The "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu 374 describes a method for cleaning the plasma cleaning system when the plasma clean system (not shown) is contained in the air-conditioner.

[213] The "HEPA-filter exchange method" menu 376 describes a method for exchanging a HEPA filter (not shown).

[214] The "Keeping method" menu 378 describes instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used.

[215] The "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 380 allows the user to self- check the occurrence of an erroneous state of the air-conditioner, such that the user can properly cope with the erroneous state by himself or herself. The "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 380 includes the "Symptom" menu 382, the "Check" menu 384, and the "Item of Measures" menu 386.

[216] The "Symptom" menu 382 describes a variety of erroneous states of the air- conditioner. The "Check" menu 384 describes symptoms' check points that should be checked by the user. The "Item of Measures" 386 menu describes a variety of measures that should be handled by the user after the "Symptom" and "Check" menus 382 and 384 are executed.

[217] The "Product Installation/Recognize" menu 390 includes the "Installation Method" menu 391, the "About Customer Service" menu 392, the "Product Guarantee/Customer Card" item 393, the "Customer Reward Policy" menu 394, the "Household-appliance Waste Treatment" menu 395, the "Packing-box Waste Information (Info.)" menu 396, the "Caution matters of Refrigerant" menu 397, and the "Product Specification" menu 398, etc.

[218] The "Installation Method" menu 391 sequentially describes a method for determining an installation location of the air-conditioner and installing the air- conditioner at the location.

[219] The "About Customer Service" menu 392 describes a customer's right, a customer service case that must be paid by the user, and a service information phone number, etc.

[220] The "Product Guarantee/Customer Card" item 393 describes the product guarantee of the air-conditioner and the form of a customer card.

[221] The "Customer Reward Policy" menu 394 describes types of individual customer damages and compensation contents thereof.

[222] The "Household-appliance Waste Treatment" menu 395 describes a method for treating an old household appliance when the user purchases a new household appliance, or a method for simply discarding the old household appliance.

[223] The "Packing-box Waste Info" menu 396 describes a method for processing the packing box after the product is installed at a desired location.

[224] The "Caution matters of Refrigerant" menu 397 describes caution matters of the user when the user exchanges a refrigerant or additionally adds the refrigerant.

[225] The "Product Specification" menu 398 describes overall product information, for example, a model name and cooling capacity of the air-conditioner, etc.

[226] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of an album user manual stored in the air-conditioner according to the present invention. In more detail, detailed descriptions of the album user manual stored in the above-mentioned e-book are shown in FIG. 10.

[227] The album user manual describes a variety of usages for allowing the user to effectively employ the album function of the air-conditioner. The above-mentioned album user manual is classified into the "Photo-album construction" menu 500 and the "Environment Setup" menu 510.

[228] The "Photo-album construction" menu 500 describes a method for transferring a photo-image captured by a digital camera or a mobile-phone camera to the memory 202 of the air-conditioner via the USB memory 160, such that it can allow the user to construct his or her photo-album. The "Photo-album construction" menu 500 describes methods for selecting individual menus (e.g., "Photo Retrieve" menu, and "Album View" menu, etc.)

[229] The "Environment Setup" menu 510 describes a method for establishing environments of the air-conditioner, and includes the "Screen-saver" menu 511, the "Operation-mode" menu 512, the "Stop-mode setup" menu 513, the "Alarm setup" menu 514, the "Date/time setup" menu 515, and the "Sound effect setup/brightness setup" menu 516, etc.

[230] The "Screen-saver" menu 511 describes a method for setting a photo-image contained in the user's photo-album to a screen-saver image.

[231] The "Operation-mode" menu 512 describes a method for setting a background image and temperature indication data (e.g., calligraphic style) to be displayed on the display 230 during the operation of the air-conditioner.

[232] The "Stop-mode setup" menu 513 describes a method for determining which information will be displayed on the display 230 when the air-conditioner stops operation.

[233] The "Alarm setup" menu 514 describes a method for directing the user to establish a desired alarm time.

[234] The "Date/time setup" menu 515 describes a method for allowing the user to set a date and time to be displayed on the display 230 during the stop mode of the air- conditioner.

[235] The "Sound effect setup/brightness setup" menu 516 describes a method for setting a button sound effect, a method for setting a background sound during the operation of the air-conditioner, a method for setting the volume of sound, and a method for setting a screen brightness.

[236] FIG. 11 shows a display state of the product user manual displayed by an e-book viewer according to the present invention. In other words, FIG. 11 shows a main screen image displayed when the user selects the "Product User Manual".

[237] As shown in FIG. 11, if the user selects the "Product User manual", individual orders of the "Product User Manual" are displayed, and icons are displayed at upper and right sides of the display image. In other words, data of the "Product User Manual" is displayed on the display 230, and an exemplary e-book viewer is shown in FIG. 11.

[238] The e-book viewer includes a plurality of icons, such that the user can easily search for desired data in the user manual using the icons.

[239] In more detail, the "Zoom-in" icon 520, the "Zoom-out" icon 522, the pre-page icon

524, and the next-page icon 526 are displayed at an upper side of the display screen image. A plurality of main menus are displayed at the right side of the display screen image, for example, the "Before Use" icon 530, the "Current use" icon 532, the "After- use" icon 534, and the "Product Installation/Recognize" Icon 536, etc.

[240] The "Zoom-in" icon 520 is adapted to zoom in on content data of the user manual.

The "Zoom-out" icon 522 is adapted to zoom out from the display screen image of the user manual.

[241] The "Pre-page" icon 524 denoted by (A) is adapted to return to a previous page.

The "Next-page" icon 526 denoted by (►) is adapted to go to the next page.

[242] The "Before Use" icon 530, the "Current use" icon 532, the "After-use" icon 534, and the "Product Installation/Recognize" Icon 536 correspond to the selection parts from among the main menus of the "Product User Manual" menu, and act as hot-key icons for allowing the user to directly go to the selected parts.

[243] For example, if the user selects the "After Use" icon 534, a current display image immediately goes to another display image including instructions that must be executed after the air-conditioner is used. In other words, the current display image is changed to another display image on which the "Filter cleaning" menu 372, the "Plasma clean system cleaning" menu 374, the "HEPA filter exchange method" menu 376, the "Keeping method" menu 378, and the "Check point before contacting A/C center" menu 380 are displayed.

[244] The above-mentioned individual icons are clicked by the user. If the user selects any one of the icons using the button unit 130 and the remote-controller, a corresponding icon signal is transmitted to the controller 200, such that the command is executed.

[245] Preferably, the button for allowing the user to click the icon may be pre-established when the product (i.e., the air-conditioner) comes onto the market. For example, if the user presses the left key 138 of the button unit 130, the "Zoon-in" icon is selected. If the user presses the right key 139 of the button unit 130, the "Zoom-out" icon is selected.

[246] The left/right movement keys (^•^►i Volume keys) are adapted to select the "pre- page" icon 524 and the "next-page" icon 526. The up/down movement keys (A,T: Temperature keys) are adapted to select the "Before Use" icon 530, the "current use" icon 532, the "after use" icon, and the "product installation/recognize" icon 536.

[247] The display screen image displayed in the form of the e-book may further include a plurality of icons. In other words, the display screen image may include not only the "Zoom-in" icon 520 or the "Zoom-out" icon 522 but also a direction-key icon for moving a focal point of the screen image.

[248] An air-conditioner according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention stores the user manual configured in the form of a file in the memory, and describes the stored user manual using a specific guide format.

[249] FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the principal menus of the user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, individual menus of the usage guide functions contained in the above-mentioned operation/additional function 342 are shown in FIG. 12. The memory 202 includes a user manual file. The user manual file is displayed on the display according to a user selection signal, such that it provides the user with usages of the air-conditioner.

[250] Data of the user manual is classified according to a plurality of menus, such that the classified data is displayed according to individual menus selected by the user.

[251] The user manual includes the "Names of Individual Units" menu 450 for describing names of individual units of the air-conditioner; the "Operation Guide" menu 460 for describing a method for directing the user to operate the air-conditioner step by step; the "Cleaning Guide" menu 470 for describing a method for cleaning the air- conditioner; the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480 for describing check points that must be checked by the user when a faulty or erroneous state occurs in the air-conditioner; and the "Caution for safety" menu 490 for describing caution matters that must be followed to prevent the occurrence of an unexpected accident.

[252] The "Names of Individual Units" menu 450 describes names of individual units of the air-conditioner. The "Names of Individual Units" menu 450 includes a plurality of sub-menus, for example, an indoor-unit menu 452, an outdoor-unit menu 454, a control menu 456 equipped with control buttons of the air-conditioner, and a remote- controller menu 458 for wirelessly controlling the air-conditioner. The remote- controller menu 458 is classified into the "Operation method" menu 458' and a "Usage" menu 458".

[253] The "Operation Guide" menu 460 displays a method for sequentially operating the air-conditioner on the condition that the user operates the air-conditioner according to instructions displayed on the display 230.

[254] The "Operation Guide" menu 460 includes the "Cooling-mode" menu 462 for indicating a method for cooling room air, the "Temperature-Control" menu 464 for indicating a method for setting a desired temperature, the "Wind-Control" menu 466 for controlling the direction of the wind generated from the air-conditioner, and the "Additional function" menu 468 for indicating a method for setting a plurality of additional functions.

[255] The "Cooling-mode" menu 462 describes a method for operating the air-conditioner when the user desires to cool room air.

[256] The "Temperature-Control" menu 464 directs the user to easily establish a desired temperature.

[257] The "Wind-Control" menu 466 directs the user to establish the volume of wind and the direction of wind. The "Wind-Control" menu 466 is classified into the "Left/right wind-direction control" menu 466a for indicating a left/right control method of the wind; the "Up/down wind-direction control" menu 466b for indicating an up/down control method of the wind; and the "Wind- volume Control" menu 466c for controlling the volume of the wind, etc.

[258] The "Left/right wind-direction Control" menu 466a describes a method for horizontally controlling the direction of the wind. The "Up/down wind-direction Control" menu 466b describes a method for vertically controlling the direction of the wind. The "Wind-volume Control" menu 466c describes a method for controlling the volume of wind generated from the air-conditioner, such that the user can set the volume of wind to a strong mode, a power mode, or a weak mode, etc., using the "Wind- volume Control" menu 466c.

[259] The "Additional-function" menu 468 includes the "Artificial Intelligence" menu

468a, the "Dehumidifying Operation" menu 468b, the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu 468c, the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu 468d, the "3D (three-dimensional) air- cleaning system" menu 468e, the "Simple Reservation" menu 468f, the "Current-time Setting" menu 468g, the "Power-on Reservation" menu 468h, and the "Power-off Reservation" menu 468i, etc.

[260] The "Artificial Intelligence" menu 468a allows the sensor unit 212 to automatically detect a room temperature, and operates the air-conditioner, such that it operates the air-conditioner at a user-desired condition.

[261] The "Dehumidifying Operation" menu 468b effectively removes moisture from the air on a high-humidity day, and at the same time performs the cooling mode.

[262] The "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu 468c describes a method for intensively cooling room air within a short period of time.

[263] The "Digital Power-saving Cooling" menu 468d performs a pleasant cooling mode suitable for a biorhythm of the user, or cools only a necessary area, such that it can save electricity costs.

[264] The "3D air-cleaning system" menu 468e describes a method for establishing a 3D air-cleaning operation to clean the room air.

[265] The "Simple Reservation" menu 468f describes a method for establishing a reservation time, such that the air-conditioner is operated during a user-desired time, and is then automatically powered off after the lapse of the user-desired time.

[266] The "Current-time Setting" menu 468g directs the user to easily establish a current time.

[267] The "Power-on Reservation" menu 468h and the "Power-off Reservation" menu

[268] The "Cleaning Guide" menu 470 sequentially describes a method for cleaning inner areas of the air-conditioner, and includes the "Filter Cleaning" menu 472, the "Plasma- clean system cleaning" menu 474, the HEPA-filter exchange method" menu 476, and the "Keeping Method" menu 478.

[269] The "Filter-cleaning" menu 472 describes a method for cleaning a variety of filters

(e.g., a pre-filter (not shown)) using a vacuum cleaner or a brush.

[270] The "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu 474 describes a method for cleaning the plasma cleaning system when the plasma clean system (not shown) is contained in the air-conditioner.

[271] The "HEPA-filter exchange method" menu 476 describes a method for exchanging a HEPA filter (not shown).

[272] The "Keeping method" menu 478 describes instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used.

[273] The "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480 allows the user to self- check the occurrence of an erroneous state of the air-conditioner, such that the user can properly cope with the erroneous state by himself or herself. The "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480 includes the "Symptom" menu 482, the "Check" menu 484, and the "Item of Measures" menu 486.

[274] The "Symptom" menu 482 describes a variety of erroneous states of the air- conditioner. The "Check" menu 484 describes symptoms' check points that should be checked by the user.

[275] The "Item of Measures" menu 486 describes a variety of measures that should be handled by the user after the "Symptom" and "Check" menus 482 and 484 are executed.

[276] The "Caution for Safety" menu 490 for the safe and correct uses of the air- conditioner describes user's caution matters to prevent an unexpected accident or damage from occurring, and includes the "Warning" menu 492 and the "Caution" menu 494.

[277] The "Warning" menu 492 describes a plurality of dangerous cases in which the user may be seriously injured or die by violating instructions.

[278] The "Caution" menu 494 describes a plurality of cases in which the user may be physically injured or be financially damaged by violating caution matters. In other words, the "Caution" menu 494 displays a plurality of caution matters that must be observed when the air-conditioner is installed, before/after the air-conditioner is used, or when the air-conditioner is currently used.

[279] The above-mentioned user manual guide function is contained in the above- mentioned operation/additional function 342's setup process. In other words, if the user selects the "User Manual" icon on the display screen image of FIG. 13 in the operation/additional function 342, individual menus of the above-mentioned user manual are displayed.

[280] A method for allowing the user to select the user manual on the display screen image of FIG. 13, and displaying data of the user manual on the display is depicted in FIGS. 14 to 20.

[281] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method for displaying a user manual stored in an air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [282] Referring to FIG. 14, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the

"User Manual" icon on the operation/additional function setup screen image of FIG. 13 at step S600. [283] If the user selects the "User Manual" icon at step S600, the controller 200 displays a main screen image of the user manual on the display 230 at step S602. [284] In this case, individual main items of the user manual are displayed on the display

230. In other words, the "Names of Individual Units" menu 450, the "Operation Guide" menu 460, the "Cleaning Guide" menu 470, the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480, and the "Caution for Safety" menu 490 are displayed on the display

230. [285] Therefore, the user selects one of the above-mentioned menus. The controller 200 determines which menu was selected, such that it displays sub-menus of the selected menu on the display 230. [286] In more detail, the controller 200 determines whether the "Names of Individual

Units" menu 450 was selected at step S610. If the "Names of Individual Units" menu

450 is not selected at step S610, the controller 200 determines whether the "Operation

Guide" menu 460 is selected by the user at step S700. [287] If the "Operation Guide" menu 460 is not selected at step S700, the controller 200 determines whether the "Cleaning Guide" menu 470 is selected by the user at step

S800. [288] If the "Cleaning Guide" menu 470 is not selected at step S800, the controller 200 determines whether the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480 is selected by the user at step S900. [289] If the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu 480 is not selected by the user at step S900, the controller 200 determines whether the "Caution for Safety" menu

490 is selected by the user.

[290] FIGS. 15 to 20 are flow charts illustrating methods for controlling the air- conditioner when individual menus are selected by the user via a main screen image

(S602) of the user manual. [291] FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling the air-conditioner when a user selects the "Names of individual units" menu at step S601. [292] As shown in FIG. 15, sub-menus of the "Names of Individual Units" menu are displayed on the display 230 at step S612. In other words, the indoor-unit menu 452, the outdoor-unit menu 454, the control menu 456, and the remote-controller menu 458 are displayed at step S612, and the user selects one of the above-mentioned displayed menus. [293] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the indoor-unit menu at step

S620. [294] If the indoor-unit menu is selected by the user at step S620, names of individual units of the indoor unit are displayed at step S622. Otherwise, if the indoor-unit menu is not selected by the user at step S620, the controller 200 determines whether the outdoor-unit menu is selected by the user at step S630.

[295] In this case, if the outdoor-unit menu is selected by the user at step S630, names of individual units are displayed on the display 230 at step S632. Otherwise, if the outdoor-unit menu is not selected by the user at step S630, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the control menu at step S640.

[296] If the control menu is selected at step S640, the controller 200 displays names of individual units associated with the control menu on the display 230 at step S642. Otherwise, if the control menu is not selected at step S640, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the remote-controller menu at step S650.

[297] If the remote-controller menu is selected at step S650, the main screen image for operations of the remote-controller is displayed on the display 230 at step S652. Otherwise, if the remote-controller menu is not selected at step S650, the above step S612 is maintained, such that the controller 200 waits for a desired-menu selection operation of the user.

[298] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Operation Method" menu of the remote-controller at step S660. If the "Operation Method" menu of the remote-controller is selected at step S660, the controller 200 displays the operation method of the remote-controller at step S662. Otherwise, if the "Operation Method" menu of the remote-controller is not selected at step S660, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the usage menu of the remote-controller at step S670. In this case, if the usage menu of the remote-controller is selected at step S670, the usages of the remote-controller are displayed at step S672. Otherwise, if the usage menu of the remote-controller is not selected at step S670, the above step S652 is maintained.

[299] If the individual names or usages are displayed on the display 230 as described above, the user can move forward and backward past each page using the left/right shift keys (A ,► : Volume Keys).

[300] In the meantime, after the individual names or usages are displayed, the controller

200 determines whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S680. If the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S680, a current display screen image returns to an initial display screen image. In other words, a current process of the air- conditioner returns to the above step S612.

[301] FIGS. 16 and 17 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air- conditioner when a user selects the "Operation Guide" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, a method for controlling the air-conditioner when the user selects the "Operation Guide" menu at step S700 is depicted in FIGS. 16 and 17.

[302] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, sub-menus of the "Operation Guide" menu are displayed on the display 230 at step S702. The "Cooling-mode" menu 462, the "Temperature-control" menu 464, the "Wind-control" menu 466, and the "Additional function" menu 468 are displayed on the display 230 at step S702. Therefore, the controller 200 determines which one of the menus was selected by the user.

[303] In more detail, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Cooling-

Mode" menu at step S710. If the "Cooling-mode" menu is selected by the user at step S710, a cooling operation method of the air-conditioner is displayed at step S712. Otherwise, if the "Cooling-mode" menu is not selected by the user at step S710, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Temperature-Control" menu at step S720.

[304] If the "Temperature-Control" menu is selected by the user at step S720, a method for adjusting room temperature is displayed at step S722. Otherwise, if the "Temperature-Control" menu is not selected by the user at step S720, the controller 200 determines whether the "Wind-Control" menu is selected by the user at step S730.

[305] In this case, if the "Wind-Control" menu is selected by the user at step S730, submenus associated with the wind control method are displayed on the display 230 at step S731.

[306] Thereafter, the controller 200 determines which one of sub-menus contained in the

"Wind-Control" menu is selected. In more detail, the controller 200 determines whether the "Left/right wind-direction control" menu is selected at step S732.

[307] If the "Left/right wind-direction control" menu is selected at step S732, a method for adjusting left/right wind-directions is displayed at step s733. Otherwise, if the "Left/ right wind-direction control" menu is not selected at step S732, the controller 200 determines whether the "Up/down wind-direction control" menu is selected at step S734.

[308] In this case, if the "Up/down wind-direction control" menu is selected at step S734, a method for adjusting an up/down wind-direction control method is displayed at step S735. Otherwise, if the "Up/down wind-direction control" menu is not selected at step S734, the controller 200 determines whether the "Wind- volume control" menu is selected at step S736.

[309] If the "Wind- volume control" menu is selected at step S736, a method for adjusting the volume of wind is displayed at step S737. Otherwise, if the "Wind- volume control" menu is not selected at step S736, the above step S731 for waiting for the user selection signal is maintained.

[310] In the meantime, if the "Wind-control" menu is not selected at step S730, the controller 200 determines whether the "Additional function" menu is selected at step S740. If the "Additional function" menu is not selected at step S740, the above step S702 is maintained. Otherwise, if the "Additional function" menu is selected at step S740, sub-menus associated with the "Additional function" menu are displayed at step S741.

[311] In other words, the "Artificial Intelligence" menu 468a, the "Dehumidifying

Operation" menu 468b, the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu 468c, the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu 468d, the "3D (three-dimensional) air-cleaning system" menu 468e, the "Simple Reservation" menu 468f, the "Current-time Setting" menu 468g, the "Power- on Reservation" menu 468h, and the "Power-off Reservation" menu 468i are displayed on the display 230. In this case, the controller 200 determines which one of sub-menus is selected by the user.

[312] The controller 200 determines whether the "Artificial Intelligence" menu is selected by the user at step S742. If the "Artificial Intelligence" menu is selected by the user at step S742, a method for establishing an artificial intelligence is displayed at step S743. If the artificial intelligence menu is not selected at step S743, the controller 200 determines whether the "Dehumidifying Operation" menu is selected at step S744.

[313] If the "Dehumidifying Operation" menu is selected at step S744, a dehumidifying operation method of the air-conditioner is displayed on the display 230 at step S745. Otherwise, if the "Dehumidifying Operation" menu is not selected at step S744, the controller 200 determines whether the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu is selected at step S746.

[314] If the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu is selected by the user at step S746, a turbo-cooling setup method is displayed at step S747. Otherwise, if the "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu is not selected by the user at step S746, the controller 200 determines whether the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu is selected at step S748.

[315] In this case, if the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu is selected at step S748, data of a digital power-saving cooling method is displayed on the display 230 at step S749. Otherwise, if the "Digital Power-Saving Cooling" menu is not selected at step S748, the controller 200 determines whether the "3D air-cleaning system" menu is selected at step S750.

[316] If the "3D air-cleaning system" menu is selected at step S750, data of the 3D air- cleaning system setup method is displayed on the display 230 at step S751. Otherwise, if the "3D air-cleaning system" menu is not selected at step S750, the controller 200 determines whether the "Simple Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S752.

[317] If the "Simple Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S752, a simple reservation setup method is displayed on the display 230 at step S753. Otherwise, if the "Simple Reservation" menu is not selected by the user at step S752, the controller 200 determines whether the "Current-time Setting" menu is selected by the user at step S754.

[318] If the "Current-time Setting" menu is selected by the user at step S754, a method for setting a current time is displayed on the display at step S755. Otherwise, if the "Current-time Setting" menu is not selected by the user at step S754, the controller 200 determines whether the "Power-on Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S756.

[319] If the "Power-on Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S756, a power- on reservation setup method is displayed on the display 230 at step S757. Otherwise, if the "Power-on Reservation" menu is not selected by the user at step S756, the controller 200 determines whether the "Power-off Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S758.

[320] If the "Power-off Reservation" menu is selected by the user at step S758, a power- off reservation setup method is displayed at step S759. Otherwise, if the "Power-off Reservation" menu is not selected by the user at step S758, the above step S741 is maintained.

[321] If individual setup methods are displayed as stated above, the user can read detailed data while moving forward and backward past each page using the left/right shift keys (A ,►: Volume Keys).

[322] In the meantime, if the individual setup methods are displayed, the controller 200 determines whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S760. If the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S760, a current display screen image returns to an initial display screen image. In other words, a current process of the air- conditioner returns to the above step S702.

[323] FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Cleaning Guide" menu from among a user manual stored in the air- conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, a method for controlling the air-conditioner when the user selects the "Cleaning Guide" menu at step S800 is depicted in FIG. 18.

[324] Referring to FIG. 18, sub-menus of the "Cleaning Guide" menu are displayed on the display 230 at step S802. The "Filter Cleaning" menu 472, the "Plasma-Clean System Cleaning" menu 474, the "HEPA-filter exchange method" menu 476, and the "Keeping method" menu 478 are displayed on the display 230 at step S 802. Therefore, the controller 200 determines which one of the above-mentioned menus was selected by the user.

[325] In more detail, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Filter-

Cleaning" menu at step S810. If the "Filter-Cleaning" menu is selected by the user at step S810, a filter cleaning method of the air-conditioner is displayed on the display 230 at step S812. Otherwise, if the "Filter-Cleaning" menu is not selected by the user at step S810, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Plasma-Clean system Cleaning" menu at step S820.

[326] If the "Plasma-Clean System Cleaning" menu is selected by the user at step S820, content data associated with the plasma-clean system cleaning is displayed on the display 230 at step S822. Otherwise, if the "Plasma-Clean System Cleaning" menu is not selected by the user at step S 820, the controller 200 determines whether the "HEPA- filter exchange method" menu is selected by the user at step S830.

[327] In this case, if the "HEPA-filter exchange method" menu is selected by the user at step S830, a method for exchanging the HEPA-filter (not shown) is displayed on the display 230 at step S832. Otherwise, if the "HEPA-filter exchange method" menu is not selected by the user at step S830, the controller 200 determines whether the "Keeping Method" menu is selected by the user at step S 840.

[328] If the "Keeping Method" menu is selected by the user at step S840, content data associated with the keeping method is displayed on the display 230 at step S 842. Otherwise, if the "Keeping Method" menu is not selected by the user at step S840, the above step S 802 is maintained.

[329] If the above-mentioned cleaning or keeping method is displayed as stated above, the user can read detailed data while moving forward and backward past each page using the left/right shift keys (A,^ : Volume Keys).

[330] In the meantime, if the individual cleaning or keeping method is displayed, the controller 200 determines whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S850. If the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S850, a current display screen image returns to an initial display screen image. In other words, a current process of the air-conditioner returns to the above step S802.

[331] FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, a method for controlling the air-conditioner when the user selects the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu at step S900 is depicted in FIG. 19.

[332] Referring to FIG. 19, the "Symptom" menu is displayed at step S902, such that the user can select a corresponding symptom in the symptom menu. Therefore, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects an item corresponding to the corresponding symptom at step S910.

[333] In this case, if the symptom menu is selected by the user at step S910, the "Check" menu associated with the corresponding symptom is displayed on the display 230 at step S912. Thereafter, the controller 200 determines whether a detailed item contained in "Check" menu is re-selected by the user at step S920, such that it displays the "Item of Measures" menu corresponding to the detailed item at step S922.

[334] If the "Item of Measures" menu is displayed as stated above, the user can read detailed data while moving forward and backward past each page using the left/right shift keys (A, ► : Volume Keys).

[335] In the meantime, if the "Item of Measures" menu is displayed as stated above, the controller 200 determines whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S924. If the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S924, a current display screen image returns to an initial display screen image. In other words, a current process of the air-conditioner returns to the above step S902.

[336] Needless to say, the "Symptom" menu, the "Check" menu, and the "Item of

Measures" menu are not sequentially displayed on the display 230. For the user's recognition, the "Symptom" menu, the "Check" menu, and the "Item of Measures" menu are simultaneously displayed on the display 230.

[337] FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the "Caution for Safety" menu from among a user manual stored in the air-conditioner in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In more detail, a method for controlling the air-conditioner when the "Caution for Safety" menu is selected by the user at step S950 is depicted in FIG. 20.

[338] Referring to FIG. 20, the caution matters are displayed on the display 230 at step

S952, such that the user can select individual menus associated with the caution matters. In this case, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the "Warning" menu at step S960.

[339] If the "Warning" menu is selected by the user at step S960, data of the "Warning" menu is displayed on the display 230 at step S962. Otherwise, if the "Warning" menu is not selected by the user at step S960, the controller 200 determines whether the "Caution" menu is selected by the user at step S970.

[340] In this case, if the "Caution" menu is selected by the user at step S970, data of the

"Caution" menu is displayed on the display at step S972. Otherwise, if the "Caution" menu is not selected by the user at step S972, the above step S952 is maintained.

[341] As stated above, if data of the "Warning" menu and data of the "Caution" menu are displayed on the display 230,

[342] If the "Warning" menu or the "Caution" menu is displayed as stated above, the user can read detailed data while moving forward and backward past each page using the left/right shift keys (A, ► : Volume Keys).

[343] If the "Warning" menu or the "Caution" menu is displayed as stated above, the controller 200 determines whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S980. If the "Return" button is pressed by the user at step S980, a current display screen image returns to an initial display screen image. In other words, a current process of the air-conditioner returns to the above step S952.

[344] In the meantime, data of the "Warning" menu and data of the "Caution" menu are not selectively displayed on the display 230, but simultaneously displayed on the display 230.

[345] According to the above-mentioned preferred embodiment, the controller 200 is designed to determine whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user after contents of individual menus are displayed. However, it should be noted that the controller 200 may determine whether the "Return" button is pressed by the user at any time as necessary. As a result, if the "Return" button is pressed by the user, a current display screen image may return to either an initial display screen image of the corresponding item or an initial display screen image of the user manual.

[346] According to the above-mentioned preferred embodiment, although data of the user manual is displayed in the form of text and/or image data, it should be noted that the user manual data may also be configured in various ways excepting the text and/or image data.

[347] FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating a remote-controller 980 for use in an air- conditioner according to the present invention.

[348] Referring to FIG. 21, the remote-controller 980 includes a plurality of buttons and a display window 982. The display window 982 displays a current air-conditioner setup state. The remote-controller 980 includes the "Manual" button 984.

[349] The "Manual" button is pressed by the user when the user desires to display the user manual file stored in the memory 202 on the display 230. Therefore, if the user desires to view usages of the air-conditioner, the user can read content data of the user manual file stored in the memory 202 by pressing the "Manual" button.

[350] When a power-supply signal is applied to the air-conditioner, the "Manual" button allows the user to immediately view data of the user manual without requiring additional processes. In other words, when the air-conditioner is in the stop mode or the operation mode, the user can command data of the user manual to be displayed on the display 230 at any time.

[351] In more detail, the user presses the "User Manual" icon on the operation/additional function setup screen image 342 of FIG. 13, such that content data of the "User Manual" icon is displayed on the display 230. Alternatively, if the user presses the "Manual" button 984 of the remote-controller 980, an interrupt signal is immediately generated, such that data of the user manual is displayed on the display 230.

[352] In other words, if the user presses the "Manual" button 984 of the remote-controller

980, an interrupt request is transmitted to the controller 200, such that the controller 200 controls the display 230 to disregard an old command, and commands the display

230 to display the interrupt-requested user manual data according to the interrupt request. [353] The remote-controller 980 includes a reset button 986. The reset button 986 acts as an interrupt request button for initializing the currently-progressing function. For example, if the user presses the "Reset" button 986, the currently-processing function is interrupted, and the air-conditioner returns to an initial state. [354] FIG. 22 is a flow chart illustrating a method for displaying a user manual stored in an air-conditioner upon receiving an interrupt signal in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention. [355] Referring to FIG. 22, the controller 200 determines whether the user presses the

"Manual" button 984 at step S990. If the user presses the "Manual" button 984 at step

S990, the controller 200 disregards an old display command, and displays a main screen image of the user manual on the display 230 at step S602. [356] As for operations executed after the above-mentioned user-manual main screen image is displayed, sub-menus and content data of the menus are displayed according to the user-selected menu. [357] FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner on the condition that a user presses the "Reset" button 986 of the remote-controller while data of the user manual is displayed on the display 230. [358] Referring to FIG. 23, the controller 200 determines whether the user presses the reset button 986 at step S992 when the user manual data is displayed as stated above. [359] If the reset button is pressed by the user at step S992, the user manual image displayed on the display 230 is closed at step S994, and returns to the initial state.

Therefore, the user-manual main image is displayed on the display 230 at step S602. [360] The "Manual" button 984 and the "Reset" button 986 request the interrupt signal from the controller 200, such that the user can freely view the user manual via the display 230 at any time, or the user manual image is closed and returns to the initial screen image. [361] Content data of the user manual may be audibly outputted if required. In other words, if the user selects one of sub-menus contained in the user manual as stated above, content data of the selected sub-menu is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 as necessary. [362] The above-mentioned voice guide function may be independently performed, or the user manual data is displayed on the display 230, and at the same time a voice guide signal corresponding to the user manual data may be provided to the user. In other words, when the user manual is displayed on the display 230 according to a user selection signal, content data of the user manual file is outputted to the outside via the sound output unit 222.

[363] In other words, if each menu is selected, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal "**** selected!". If a plurality of sub-menus are displayed on the display 230, a voice signal "Please select desired menu" may be outputted via the sound output unit 222 when the plurality of sub-menus are displayed on the display 230.

[364] The memory 202 includes an additional audio file. The controller 200 converts text data of the user manual into audio data, such that it can output the audio data via the sound output unit 222 at any time.

[365] A trouble-shooting function of the air-conditioner will hereinafter be described.

[366] The air-conditioner according to the present invention includes a trouble- shooting function. In more detail, the trouble-shooting function can direct the user to solve faulty- or erroneous- operations of the air-conditioner using questions and answers.

[367] In more detail, if the faulty- or erroneous- operations of the air-conditioner occur, the user presses the "Helper" key to search for the corresponding symptom, such that the user can check the retrieved symptom, and can cope with the checked symptom.

[368] Although the above-mentioned helper key is not shown in the drawings, it is preferable that the helper key is contained in the button unit 130 or the remote- controller. Therefore, if the user presses the helper key when an unexpected problem occurs in the air-conditioner, corresponding help content data is immediately displayed on the display 230.

[369] FIG. 24 is a table illustrating contents of the "Helper" file stored in the memory 202 of an air-conditioner.

[370] Referring to FIG. 24, the content data of the helper file is classified into the symptom list 600, the check points 610, and the solution points 620. The symptom list 600, and the check points 610, and the solution points 620 include detailed items, respectively.

[371] In more detail, the symptom list 600 includes a first title I and a second title II,....

The first title I is denoted by "Air-conditioner is not operated at all.". The second title II is denoted by "Room air is not cooled down." At least one check point 610 and at least one solution point 620 are associated with each title (I or II,...) of the symptom list 600.

[372] In more detail, the check point 610 corresponding to the first title I "Air-conditioner is not operated at all." of the symptom list 600 is divided into a plurality of check items 1-1, 1-2, ..., 1-5. The solution point 620 corresponding to the first title I of the symptom list 600 is divided into a plurality of solution items 1-1, 1-2, ..., 1-5. Therefore, the solution item corresponding to the check item 1-1 denoted by "Is main power-supply switch switched off?" is denoted by "Please switch on main power-supply switch.".

[373] In the meantime, a specific item denoted by "There is no symptom in user manual" (not shown) is located at the lowest part of the symptom list 600. The aforementioned specific item informs the user of the solution when a corresponding symptom of the air-conditioner is not matched with all symptoms contained in the user manual. In this case, the user manual of the air-conditioner informs the user of phone numbers of all A/S centers.

[374] In conclusion, the helper menu allows the user to self-check/solve the faulty or erroneous state of the air-conditioner before contacting the A/S center.

[375] FIGS. 25-28 show individual screen images displayed when a trouble- shooting function is executed.

[376] FIGS. 25-28 show an exemplary case in which the user manual includes content data partially different from that of the helper file shown in FIG. 24. In other words, content data of the helper file stored in the memory 202 may also be composed of content data shown in FIGS. 25-28.

[377] The display images of FIGS. 25-28 show a specific case in which the above- mentioned helper menu is contained in the setup menu of the operation/additional function 342.

[378] In other words, the helper key is contained in the button unit 130 or the remote- controller, such that data of the helper menu is displayed on the display when the user presses the helper key. However, if the user selects the "Helper" icon or the "Solution" icon on any screen image displayed while the operation/additional function 342 is established, the trouble-shooting function is executed, such that the user can properly cope with the faulty or erroneous operation of the air-conditioner.

[379] The "Additional function" screen image is shown in FIG. 25. If the user presses the additional function, the screen image of FIG. 25 is displayed. The screen image of the additional function includes a plurality of icons. In this case, the "Solution" icon, instead of the "Helper" menu, is shown in FIG. 25.

[380] In this case, if the user selects the "Solution" icon to solve an abnormal symptom

(i.e., faulty or erroneous operation) of the air-conditioner, the "Symptom" display screen image shown in FIG. 26 is displayed, and the list of a plurality of symptoms is also shown in FIG. 26.

[381] In this case, the user selects a symptom item equal to the abnormal symptom in the symptoms. If the user selects the number "1" denoted by "Wind is not cool!" on the display screen image of FIG. 26, the "Check Point" that must be checked by the user is displayed as shown in FIG. 27.

[382] A plurality of detailed check points associated with the above-mentioned check point are displayed as shown in FIG. 27. The user selects the corresponding item from among the displayed check points. For example, if the user selects the number "1-1" denoted by "Is desired temperature higher than room temperature ?", the display screen image is changed to another screen image of FIG. 28.

[383] FIG. 28 shows a display state of the "Item of Measures" menu when a troubleshooting function is executed. Individual solutions associated with the check points are displayed as shown in FIG. 28. In other words, if the user selects a specific item denoted by "Is desired temperature higher than room temperature ?", a specific message denoted by "Please control desired temperature to be less than room temperature." is displayed.

[384] A method for performing the trouble-shooting function according to the "Helper" key signal is shown in FIGS. 29-31. In more detail, if the controller 200 queries the user for specific information indicating whether a current symptom or state is equal to a predetermined symptom or state pre-stored in the memory using the display 230 and the sound output unit 222, the user answers the question using "YES" or "NO". The above-mentioned operations are repeated such that a trouble- shooting function is implemented.

[385] FIG. 29 is a flow chart illustrating an initial process of a trouble- shooting function of an air-conditioner in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention. A symptom-list display step for displaying the symptom list 600, and a symptom determination step for determining whether an abnormal symptom is equal to any one of symptoms contained in the symptom list 600 are depicted in FIG. 29.

[386] Referring to FIG. 29, the controller 200 determines whether the "Helper" key is pressed by the user at step S200. If the "Helper" key is pressed by the user, content data of the symptom I contained in the symptom list 600 is displayed at step S201.

[387] In the meantime, content data of the symptom I is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S201. In more detail, a voice signal "Is air-conditioner not operated at all?" is outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S201. The symptom list 600 configured in the form of text or image data is displayed on the display 230, and at the same time content data of the above-mentioned symptom list 600 is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222, such that the user can easily recognize a corresponding symptom.

[388] The controller 200 determines the user answers the question of the above step S201 at step S202. In more detail, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the symptom I contained in the symptom list 600 at step S202. In other words, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the NO button to the question of the above step S201 at step S202. If the controller 200 determines that the user does not select the symptom I at step S202 (i.e., the user selects the YES button), content data of the symptom II contained in the symptom list 600 is displayed at step S203.

[389] Content data "Is room air not cooler than normal room air?" of the symptom II contained in the symptom list 600 is displayed on the display at step S203, and at the same time a voice signal of the content data "Is room air not cooler than normal room air?" is outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S203.

[390] The controller 200 determines the user answers the above-mentioned question "Is room air not cooler than normal room air?" at step S204. In other words, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the symptom II of the symptom list 600 at step S204 (i.e., the user selects the NO button), and sequentially displays the following symptoms III, IV, ..., such that the controller 200 determines whether the user answers individual questions associated with the symptoms III, IV, ....

[391] If there is no symptom matched with any symptoms contained in the symptom list

600 (i.e., if the user continuously selects the YES button to all questions), a specific message "There is no symptom matched with pre-stored symptoms, Please contact A/S center!" and phone numbers of all A/S centers are displayed at step S205.

[392] Needless to say, a voice signal corresponding to the specific message is also outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S205. In other words, the specific message "There is no symptom matched with pre-stored symptoms, Please contact A/S center! Tel. 02-XXXX-XXXX" is displayed on the display 230, and at the same time is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S205.

[393] FIG. 30 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the symptom I contained in the symptom list 600 (i.e., the user selects the NO button at step S202) according to the present invention.

[394] Referring to FIG. 30, a check point display step for displaying the check points 610 associated with a corresponding symptom, and a method for determining whether a current erroneous state is matched with any check point contained in the check points 610 are sequentially repeated.

[395] The check points 610 corresponding to the symptom I contained in the symptom list

60 are sequentially displayed on the display 230, such that the controller 200 requests the user to check YES or NO button. In more detail, detailed check points from I- 1 to 1-5 of FIG. 24 ("1-1. Is main power-supply switch switched off?" ~ "1-5. Is power- supply connector opened?" are displayed on the display 230, such that the controller 200 requests answers from the user, and the sound output unit 222 outputs voice signals corresponding to the messages 1-1 to 1-5.

[396] In more detail, content data of the check item 1-1 contained in the check point 610 corresponding to the symptom I is firstly displayed on the display 230 at step S206. In this case, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal "Is main power-supply switch switched off?" at step S206.

[397] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the message "Is main power- supply switch switched off?" at step S207. In other words, the controller 200 de- termines whether the user selects the YES or NO button to the question I- 1 contained in the check point 610.

[398] If the user selects the check item 1-1 from among the check point 610 (i.e., the user selects the YES button), content data of the solution item 1-1 contained in the solution point 620 is displayed on the display 230 at step S208. Needless to say, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal corresponding to the aforementioned content data of the solution item 1-1. In other words, the voice signal "Please switch on main power-supply switch!" is outputted via the sound output unit at step S208.

[399] In the meantime, if the user does not select the check item I- 1 contained in the check point 610 (i.e., the user selects the NO button) at step S207, content data of the symptom 1-2 of the check point 610 is displayed on the display 230 at step S209. In this case, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal "Is voltage too high?" at step S209.

[400] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the symptom 1-2 of the check point 610 at step S210. If the user selects the symptom 1-2 of the check point 610, content data of the solution 1-2 contained in the solution point 620 is displayed at step S211. Needless to say, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal "Please contact KEPO (Korea Electric Power Corporation) to check rated voltage of 220V." at step S211.

[401] If the user does not select the check item 1-2 contained in the check point 610 at step S210, content data of the check items 1-3 and 1-4 contained in the check point 610 are displayed, such that the controller 200 sequentially checks user answers to the questions 1-3 and 1-4. If individual items 1-3 and 1-4 are not selected by the user, the controller 200 displays content data of the last check item 1-5 on the display 230 at step S212, and at the same time a voice signal "Is power-supply connector opened?" is outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S212.

[402] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the check item 1-5 contained in the check point 610 at step S213. If the user selects the check item 1-5 contained in the check point 610 at step S213, content data of the solution item 1-5 contained in the solution point 610 is displayed at step S214. Needless to say, the sound output unit 222 outputs a voice signal "Please insert power-supply connector into plug" at step S214.

[403] In the meantime, if the user does not select the check item 1-5 contained in the check point 610, a message "Please contact A/S center" and phone number of A/S centers are displayed on the display 230 at step S215.

[404] Needless to say, a voice signal corresponding to the specific message is also outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S215. In other words, the message "please contact A/S center. Tel. 02-XXXX-XXXX" is displayed on the display 230 in the form of text or image data, and at the same time is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S215.

[405] FIG. 31 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling an air-conditioner when a user selects the second symptom "Symptom II" shown in FIG. 29 at step S204 according to the present invention.

[406] Referring to FIG. 31, if the user selects the symptom II contained in the symptom list 600, check points 610 corresponding to the symptom II of the symptom list 600 are sequentially displayed, such that the controller 200 requests the user to enter YES or NO button.

[407] In more detail, detailed check items from II- 1 to II-8 of FIG. 24 ("II- 1. Is desired temperature higher than room temperature?" ~ "II-8. Is outdoor unit blocked with obstacle?" are displayed on the display 230, such that the controller 200 requests answers from the user, and the sound output unit 222 outputs voice signals corresponding to the messages II- 1 to II-8.

[408] In more detail, content data "Is desired temperature higher than room temperature?" of the check item II- 1 is displayed on the display 230, and is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S216.

[409] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the check item II- 1 contained in the check point 610 at step S217. In other words, the controller 200 determines whether the user selects the YES button to the question "Is desired temperature higher than room temperature ?" at step S217.

[410] If the user selects the YES button at step S217, content data of the solution item II- 1 contained in the solution item 620 is displayed on the display 230 at step S218. Needless to say, the above-mentioned content data of the solution item II- 1 is outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S218.

[411] If the user does not select the check item II- 1 contained in the check point 610 (i.e., the user selects the NO button), content data of the check item II-2 contained in the check point 610 is displayed on the display 230 at step S219. A voice signal "Dehu- midifying operation or 3D cleaning operation?" is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S219.

[412] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the check item II-2 of the check point 610 at step S220. If the user selects the check item II-2 of the check point 610, content data of the solution item II-2 contained in the solution item 620 is displayed on the display 230 at step S221, and at the same time a voice signal "Please select cooling mode" via the sound output unit 222 at step S221.

[413] If the user does not select the check item II-2 contained in the check point 610 at step S220, content data of the check items II-3 to II-7 contained in the check point 610 is displayed on the display 230, and at the same time the controller 200 sequentially determines whether the user selects the YES or NO button to individual questions II-3 to II-7. Content data of the check item II-8 is finally displayed on the display 230 at step S222. Needless to say, a voice signal "Is outdoor unit blocked with obstacle?" is outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S222.

[414] The controller 200 determines whether the user selects the check item II- 8 at step

S223. If the user selects the check item II- 8, content data of the solution item II- 8 contained in the solution point 620 is displayed on the display 230 at step S224, and at the same time a voice signal "Please remove obstacle for heat-exchange operation of outdoor unit" is outputted via the sound output unit at step S224.

[415] If the user selects the NO button at step S223, a message "Please contact A/S center!" and phone numbers of all A/S centers are displayed at step S225.

[416] Needless to say, a voice signal corresponding to the above-mentioned message is also outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S225. In other words, the specific message "Please contact A/S center! Tel. 02-XXXX-XXXX" is displayed on the display 230, and at the same time is audibly outputted via the sound output unit 222 at step S225.

[417] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Industrial Applicability

[418] The air-conditioner according to the present invention has a specific function for providing a user with a guide to usages of the air-conditioner. The user manual is stored in a memory of the air-conditioner in the form of a file, and the stored user manual is displayed on a display.

[419] The user manual can be displayed on the display of the air-conditioner in the form of images, and can be audibly outputted via a sound output unit.

[420] The air-conditioner according to the present invention includes a trouble-shooting function. Therefore, if an erroneous or faulty operation occurs during the operation time of the air-conditioner, the user can properly cope with the erroneous or faulty operation of the air-conditioner using the trouble-shooting function by himself or herself.

Claims

[ 1 ] An air-conditioner comprising : a memory for storing a user manual of the air-conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual stored in the memory; and a controller for displaying the content data of the user manual stored in the memory on the display according to a user selection signal, wherein the user manual is configured in the form of an electronic book

(e-book), and is displayed by an e-book viewer program.

[2] The air-conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the user manual configured in the form of an e-book includes: a product user manual for describing usages of the air-conditioner; and an album user manual for describing usages of an album function capable of storing/editing a variety of photo-images.

[3] The air-conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the product user manual includes: a "Before Use" menu for describing sub-items that must be recognized by a user prior to an operation time of the air-conditioner; a "Current Use" menu for describing user setup items that must be established by the user during the operation time of the air-conditioner; an "After Use" menu for describing user handling actions that must be executed by the user after the operation time of the air-conditioner; and a "Product Installation/Recognize" menu for describing installation methods of the air-conditioner and other product information.

[4] The air-conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the "Before Use" menu includes: a "Caution for Safety" menu for describing caution matters capable of preventing the occurrence of an accident; a "Names of Individual Units" menu for describing names of individual units of the air-conditioner; and a "Remote-controller usage" menu for informing the user of an operation method of a remote-controller of the air-conditioner.

[5] The air-conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the "Current Use" menu includes: a "Cooling-mode" menu for indicating a method for cooling room air; a "Temperature-Control" menu for indicating a method for establishing a desired temperature; a "Wind-Control" menu for adjusting the direction of wind generated from the air-conditioner; and an "Additional-function" menu for indicating a plurality of additional function setup methods.

[6] The air-conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the "After Use" menu includes: a "Filter-cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a variety of filters; a "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a plasma clean system; a "HEPA (High Efficiency Particular Air) - filter exchange method" menu for describing a method for exchanging a HEPA filter; a "Keeping method" menu for describing instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used; and a "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu for allowing the user to self- check an erroneous state of the air-conditioner, such that the user can properly cope with the erroneous state by himself or herself.

[7] The air-conditioner according to claim 3, wherein the "Product Installation/

Recognize" menu includes: an "Installation Method" menu for describing installation information of the air- conditioner; an "About Customer Service" menu for describing after-sale service (A/S) information; a "Product Guarantee/Customer Card" item for describing a product guarantee of the air-conditioner and a form of a customer card; a "Household- appliance Waste Treatment" menu for describing a method for treating/discarding an old household appliance; a "Packing-box Waste Information (Info)" menu for describing a method for processing a packing box after the installation of the air-condition; a "Caution matters of Refrigerant" menu for describing caution matters of the user when the user exchanges a refrigerant or additionally adds the refrigerant; and a "Product Specification" menu for describing overall product information, for example, a model name and cooling capacity of the air-conditioner.

[8] The air-conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the album user manual includes: a "Photo-album construction" menu which describes a method for guiding the user to construct a photo-album using photo-images captured by a camera; and an "Environment Setup" menu which describes a method for establishing en- vironments of the air-conditioner.

[9] The air-conditioner according to claim 8, wherein the "Environment Setup" menu includes: a "Screen-saver" menu which describes a method for setting a photo-image contained in the photo-album to a screen-saver image; an "Operation-mode" menu which describes a method for setting an image to be displayed on the display during the operation of the air-conditioner; a "Stop-mode setup" menu which describes a method for determining which information will be displayed on the display when the air-conditioner stops operation; an "Alarm setup" menu which describes a method for directing the user to establish a desired alarm time; a "Date/time setup" menu which describes a method for allowing the user to set a date and time to be displayed on the display; and a "Sound effect setup/brightness setup" menu which describes a method for setting a button sound effect and a screen brightness.

[10] The air-conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the e-book viewer program includes a plurality of icons, such that the user can easily search for desired data in the user manual using the icons.

[11] The air-conditioner according to claim 10, wherein the e-book viewer program includes: a "Zoom-in" icon for zooming in on content data of the user manual displayed on the display, and a "Zoom-out" icon for zooming out from the content data of the user manual; a "Pre-page" icon returning a previous page of a currently-displayed page, and a

"Next-page" icon going to the next page of the currently-displayed page; a hot-key icon for allowing the user to directly go to a user-selected part; and a direction-key icon for moving a focal point of a displayed image.

[12] An air-conditioner comprising : a memory for storing a user manual file indicating an operation method of the air-conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual file stored in the memory; and a controller for displaying the content data of the user manual file stored in the memory on the display according to a user selection signal.

[13] The air-conditioner according to claim 12, wherein the user manual file is classified according to a plurality of menus, such that the classified data is displayed according to individual menus selected by the user.

[14] The air-conditioner according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of menus include: a "Names of Individual Units" menu for describing names of individual units of the air-conditioner; an "Operation Guide" menu for describing a method for directing the user to operate the air-conditioner step by step; a "Cleaning Guide" menu for describing a method for cleaning the air- conditioner; a "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu for describing check points that must be checked by the user when a faulty or erroneous state occurs in the air-conditioner; and a "Caution for safety" menu for describing caution matters that must be followed to prevent the occurrence of an unexpected accident.

[15] The air-conditioner according to claim 13, wherein the "Names of Individual

Units" menu includes: an "Indoor-Unit" menu for indicating an indoor unit of the air-conditioner, and an "Outdoor- Unit" menu for indicating an outdoor unit of the air-conditioner; a "Control" menu equipped with buttons of the air-conditioner; and a "Remote-Controller" menu for wirelessly controlling the air-conditioner.

[16] The air-conditioner according to claim 14, wherein the "Operation Guide" menu includes: a "Cooling-mode" menu for indicating a method for cooling room air; a "Temperature-Control" menu for indicating a method for setting a desired temperature; a "Wind-Control" menu for controlling the direction of the wind generated from the air-conditioner; and an "Additional function" menu for indicating a method for setting a plurality of additional functions.

[17] The air-conditioner according to claim 16, wherein the "Wind-Control" menu includes: a "Left/right wind-direction control" menu for indicating a left/right control method of the wind; an "Up/down wind-direction control" menu for indicating an up/down control method of the wind; and a "Wind-volume Control" menu for controlling the volume of the wind.

[18] The air-conditioner according to claim 16, wherein the "Additional function" menu includes: an "Artificial Intelligence" menu for automatically detecting a room temperature, such that it operates the air-conditioner at a user-desired condition; a "Dehumidifying Operation" menu which effectively removes moisture from the air at a high-humidity date, and at the same time performs the cooling mode; a "Turbo-Z Cooling" menu for describing a method for intensively cooling room air within a short period of time; a "Digital Power-saving Cooling" menu which performs a pleasant cooling mode suitable for a biorhythm of the user, or cools only a necessary area; a "3D (3-dimensional) air-cleaning system" menu for describing a method for establishing a 3D air-cleaning operation mode; a "Simple Reservation" menu which describes a method for establishing a reservation time, such that the air-conditioner is operated during a user-desired time, and is then automatically powered off after the lapse of the user-desired time; a "Current-time Setting" menu for directing the user to easily establish a current time; a "Power-on Reservation" menu for describing a method for automatically powering on the air-conditioner at a user-desired reservation time; and a "Power-off Reservation" menu for describing a method for automatically powering off the air-conditioner at a user-desired reservation time.

[19] The air-conditioner according to claim 14, wherein the "Cleaning Guide" menu includes: a "Filter-cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a variety of filters using a vacuum cleaner or a brush; a "Plasma-clean system cleaning" menu for describing a method for cleaning a plasma cleaning system; a "HEPA (High Efficiency Particular Air) - filter exchange method" menu for describing a method for exchanging a HEPA filter; and a "Keeping method" menu for describing instructions that must be followed when the air-conditioner is not used.

[20] The air-conditioner according to claim 14, wherein the "Check Point before contacting A/S center" menu includes: a "Symptom" menu for describing a variety of erroneous states of the air- conditioner; a "Check" menu for describing symptoms' check points that must be checked by the user; and an "Item of Measures" menu for describing a variety of measures that must be handled by the user after the "Symptom" and "Check" menus are executed.

[21] The air-conditioner according to claim 14, wherein the "Caution for Safety" menu includes: a "Warning" menu for describing a plurality of dangerous cases in which the user is seriously injured or die by violating instructions; and a "Caution" menu for describing a plurality of cases in which the user is physically injured or be financially damaged by violating caution matters.

[22] The air-conditioner according to claim 12, wherein: if content data of the user manual is displayed on the display, a current page including the content data is shifted to another page by a user's button clicking.

[23] The air-conditioner according to claim 12, wherein: after content data of the user manual is displayed, a current page returns to an initial screen image by a user's button clicking.

[24] An air-conditioner comprising: a memory for storing a user manual equipped with usages of the air-conditioner; a display for displaying content data of the user manual stored in the memory; a sound output unit for audibly outputting the content data of the user manual stored in the memory; and a controller for outputting the content data of the user manual stored in the memory via at least one of the display and the sound output unit.

[25] The air-conditioner according to claim 24, wherein the user manual is displayed on the display upon receiving an interrupt request.

[26] The air-conditioner according to claim 24, wherein the user manual is displayed on the display according to a user command although the air-conditioner is in an operation mode or a stop mode.

[27] The air-conditioner according to claim 24, wherein the user manual is divided into a plurality of items according to a plurality of stages, such that it is hierarchically displayed on the display according to individual stages.

[28] The air-conditioner according to claim 27, wherein the plurality of stages include: a first stage for displaying a plurality of menus; a second stage for allowing the user to select any one of the menus; and a third stage for displaying content data of a user-selected menu.

[29] A method for controlling an air-conditioner comprising the steps of: a) displaying a symptom list associated with a faulty or erroneous symptom of the air-conditioner; b) displaying a check point associated with a corresponding symptom; and c) displaying a solution point associated with the corresponding symptom. [30] The method according to claim 29, further comprising the step of: d) determining whether the faulty or erroneous symptom of the air-conditioner is equal to any symptom contained in the symptom list, wherein that the step d) is located between the step a) and the step b). [31] The method according to claim 29, further comprising the step of: e) determining whether a current faulty or erroneous state is equal to any check point contained in a check list, wherein that the step e) is located between the step b) and the step c). [32] The method according to claim 30, further comprising the step of: if the faulty or erroneous symptom is not equal to any symptom contained in the symptom list, informing the user of a phone number of an after-sale-service

(A/S) center. [33] The method according to claim 31, further comprising the step of: if the faulty or erroneous symptom is not equal to any check point contained in a check list, informing the user of a phone number of an after-sale-service (A/S) center. [34] The method according to claim 29, wherein the symptom list, individual items of the check point, and individual items of the solution point are audibly outputted.