Humidifier and method for controlling same

Abstract

A humidifier of the present invention comprises: a main body; a lamp provided in the main body; a display unit provided in the main body; a water tank accommodated in the main body; a weight sensor for sensing the weight of water stored in the water tank; a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the water stored in the water tank; and a control unit for controlling an output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit on the basis of at least one of the sensed weight of the water and the sensed temperature of the water.

Description

Humidifier and control method thereof

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a humidifier that heats water and discharges moisture generated by the heating into the air, and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A humidifier is a device that increases or maintains the humidity of the indoor air.

[0003] Types of humidifiers include heated humidifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers, combined humidifiers that combine heated and ultrasonic types, centrifugal spray humidifiers that blow water with centrifugal force to hit a screen and break it into small particles, and filter vaporization humidifiers that create moisture by evaporating water through a wet filter by passing air through it.

[0004] Among these, heated humidifiers can generate steam by heating and vaporizing water stored in a tank. However, these heated humidifiers have a problem in that the user cannot know the temperature of the water stored in the tank, which poses a risk of burns.

[0005] In addition, humidifiers made of stainless steel have a problem in that the user cannot easily recognize the amount of water stored in the tank.

[0006] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a humidifier and a method for controlling the same, which controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on at least one of the temperature of the water, the amount of water, and the mode of operation.

[0007] Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides a humidifier comprising a sensor case having a cutting portion provided around a receiving groove for accommodating a temperature sensor.

[0008] A humidifier according to one aspect comprises: a main body; a lamp provided in the main body; a display unit provided in the main body; a water tank accommodated in the main body; a weight sensor for detecting the weight of water stored in the water tank; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of water stored in the water tank; and a control unit for controlling the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on at least one of the detected weight of the water and the detected temperature of the water.

[0009] A humidifier according to one aspect further includes a cover provided in a main body and opening and closing an opening of a receiving space of the main body in which a water tank is received. A lamp of a humidifier according to one aspect is provided at a position corresponding to the edge of the cover. A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect controls at least one of turning on, turning off, flashing, lighting color, brightness, and the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp.

[0010] A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect recognizes the amount of water stored in a water tank based on weight information detected by a weight sensor, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized amount of water information.

[0011] A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect recognizes whether the amount of water in a water tank is less than the amount of standard water based on recognized water amount information, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit to output guidance information for replenishing water in the water tank based on the recognition that the amount of water in the water tank is less than the amount of standard water.

[0012] A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect recognizes information on the amount of water stored in a water tank based on what is recognized as an increase in the amount of water in the water tank among the outputs of guidance information for replenishing water in the water tank, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized amount of water information.

[0013] A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect recognizes information on the amount of water stored in a water tank based on weight information detected by a weight sensor, recognizes information on the possible humidification time based on the recognized amount of water information, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized possible humidification time information.

[0014] A humidifier according to one aspect further comprises an input unit; and a heating source for heating water stored in a water tank. A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect controls the operation of the heating source based on receiving a command to perform a humidification mode through the input unit, recognizes temperature information of water stored in the water tank based on temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized water temperature information.

[0015] A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect controls the operation of a heating source to stop based on receiving a command to terminate the humidification mode through an input unit, recognizes temperature information of water stored in a water tank based on temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized temperature information of the water.

[0016] A humidifier according to one aspect further includes a locking member that restricts the inflow and outflow of a water tank. A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect controls the locking and unlocking of the locking member based on temperature information detected by a temperature sensor.

[0017] A humidifier according to one aspect further includes an input unit. A control unit of a humidifier according to one aspect recognizes progress information of a cleaning mode based on receiving a command to perform a cleaning mode through the input unit, and controls the output of at least one of a lamp and a display unit based on the recognized progress information of the cleaning mode.

[0018] A humidifier according to one aspect further includes a sensor case made of an elastic material that supports a water tank housed in a main body. The sensor case of the humidifier according to one aspect includes a first elastic surface that accommodates a temperature sensor, a second elastic surface provided vertically from the edge of the first elastic surface, a third elastic surface provided extending horizontally from the edge of the second elastic surface, and an elastic frame provided extending vertically from the edge of the third elastic surface. At least one of the first portion where the first elastic surface and the second elastic surface meet, the second portion where the second elastic surface and the third elastic surface meet, and the third portion where the third elastic surface and the elastic frame meet, of the humidifier according to one aspect includes a cutting portion.

[0019] In a humidifier according to one aspect, the thickness of the first part where the first elastic surface and the second elastic surface meet, the second part where the second elastic surface and the third elastic surface meet, and the third part where the third elastic surface and the elastic frame meet may be thinner than the thickness of the first, second, and third elastic surfaces.

[0020] A weight sensor of a humidifier according to one aspect includes a plurality of load cells. The plurality of load cells of a humidifier according to one aspect are arranged at regular intervals on a frame provided in a receiving space of the main body, and are configured to mount a water tank.

[0021] A control method for a humidifier according to another aspect controls the operation of a heating source based on receiving a command to execute a humidification mode through an input unit, recognizes weight information detected by a weight sensor and temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, recognizes the amount of water stored in a water tank based on the weight information detected by the weight sensor, controls the lighting of a lamp based on the recognized amount of water information and the recognized temperature information, and controls the output of guidance information of a display unit.

[0022] Controlling the lamp includes controlling at least one of the lamp's turning on, turning off, flashing, lighting color, brightness, and the size of the lamp's lighting area.

[0023] Controlling the lighting of a lamp based on recognized water amount information includes controlling the size of the lamp lighting area based on the recognized water amount information, recognizing humidification possible time information based on the recognized water amount information, controlling the lighting color of the lamp based on the recognized humidification possible time information, recognizing whether the amount of water in the water tank is less than the amount of reference water based on the recognized water amount information, and controlling the flashing of the lamp based on the recognition that the amount of water in the water tank is less than the amount of reference water.

[0024] Controlling the lighting of a lamp based on recognized temperature information includes, during the execution of a humidification mode, recognizing the temperature information of water stored in a water tank based on temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, and controlling the size of the lamp's lighting area based on the recognized water temperature information.

[0025] Controlling the lighting of the lamp based on recognized temperature information involves stopping the operation of the heating source based on the reception of a humidification mode termination command through the input unit, recognizing the temperature information of the water stored in the water tank based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and controlling the flashing of the lamp based on the recognized water temperature information.

[0026] A control method for a humidifier according to another aspect further comprises identifying whether the temperature of a water tank is below a reference temperature based on temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, controlling the unlocking of a locking member connected to the water tank based on the identification that the temperature of the water tank is below the reference temperature, and controlling the locking of a locking member connected to the water tank based on the identification that the temperature of the water tank is above the reference temperature.

[0027] A control method for a humidifier according to another aspect further includes recognizing progress information of a cleaning mode based on receiving a command to perform a cleaning mode through an input unit, and controlling the size of the lighting area of ​​a lamp based on the recognized progress information of the cleaning mode.

[0028] According to the disclosed invention, the elasticity of the sensor case can be increased by including a cutting portion in the sensor case supporting the water tank, thereby improving the contact between the water tank and the temperature sensor provided within the sensor case. That is, the disclosed invention can improve the contact between the water tank and the temperature sensor within the sensor case even when there is no water or only a small amount is stored in the water tank.

[0029] The disclosed invention can reduce the detection error of the weight of a water tank detected by a weight sensor by increasing the elastic force of the sensor case supporting the water tank.

[0030] The disclosed invention can precisely recognize the amount of water stored in a water tank by detecting the weight of the water tank using a plurality of weight sensors.

[0031] The disclosed invention allows a user to easily recognize the amount of water stored in a water tank by outputting information about the amount of water in the water tank through an output unit, and allows the user to easily recognize the amount of water supplied to the water tank when supplying water to a humidifier.

[0032] The disclosed invention can prevent the humidifier from heating up when there is no water in the water tank by outputting guidance information for replenishing water in the water tank, thereby preventing malfunctions of the humidifier such as damage or discoloration to the bottom surface of the water tank.

[0033] The disclosed invention allows the user to easily recognize the preheating and residual heat status during humidification mode by outputting the temperature of the water stored in the water tank through an output unit, and allows the user to easily recognize the progress of cleaning mode by outputting the time elapsed during cleaning mode through an output unit.

[0034] The disclosed invention can reduce the risk of burns caused by a water tank by controlling the locking and unlocking of the water tank based on the temperature of the water stored in the water tank, thereby improving user safety.

[0035] The disclosed invention can improve the marketability of a humidifier and further secure the competitiveness of the humidifier.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a humidifier separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the water tank assembly of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure separated.

[0040] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Figure 2.

[0041] FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram of a frame of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 7 is an example diagram of the arrangement of a first case of a humidifier and a weight sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 8 is an example diagram of weight detection of a weight sensor of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 9 is a lower example diagram of a housing of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 10 is an example diagram of the arrangement of a heating source and a temperature sensor of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 11 is an external view of a temperature sensor and a sensor case of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 12 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a temperature sensor and a sensor case of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 13 is another example of a cross-sectional view of a temperature sensor and a sensor case of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 14 is a control configuration diagram of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 15 is an example diagram of the display portion of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIGS. 16 to 22 are example diagrams of the output of a lamp of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 23 is a control flowchart of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0054] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0055] The singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or plural items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0056] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0057] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0058] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that the component may be connected to the other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0059] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0060] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0061] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0062] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0063] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which will be explained with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

[0065] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] The humidifier of the present embodiment may be a heating type humidifier that increases or maintains the humidity of indoor air by heating water and discharging water vapor generated by heating into the air.

[0067] In addition to the humidification function of increasing or maintaining indoor air humidity, the humidifier of the present embodiment may further include an air purification function that inhales indoor air, filters out bacteria, dust, odors, and fine dust contained in the inhaled indoor air that are harmful to the human body, and discharges the filtered air into the room. That is, the humidifier of the present embodiment may be provided as an integral part of an air purifier.

[0068] Although this embodiment describes an example in which an air purifier is included in a humidifier, it can also be implemented in an example where only a humidifier is provided.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the humidifier (1) may include a main body (10). The main body (10) may form the exterior of the humidifier (1). For example, the main body (10) may be provided in a roughly box shape. The main body (10) may also be provided in a cylindrical shape, and the shape of the main body is not limited thereto.

[0070] The main body (10) may include a plurality of panels. The exterior of the humidifier (1) may be formed by the plurality of panels.

[0071] A plurality of panels may include a first panel (11) provided on the upper side of the main body (10), a second panel (12) provided on the lower side of the main body (10), and a third panel (13) provided between the first panel (11) and the second panel (12).

[0072] A user interface (100) may be provided on the first panel (11) of the main body (10). For example, the user interface (100) may include a touch screen (110), a lamp (130), and a speaker. The user interface (100) may receive input from a user or output operation information of the humidifier (1) to the user.

[0073] The user interface (100) may include an input section and a display section.

[0074] The user interface (100) may include a touch screen (110) in which an input section and a display section are integrally provided. The touch screen (110) may be provided on a first panel (11).

[0075] The input and display sections of the user interface (100) may also be provided separately.

[0076] The input section may include hardware devices such as various buttons, switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various levers, handles or sticks, microphones, etc., for user input.

[0077] In addition, the input section may include a GUI (Graphical User Interface), such as a touch pad, for user input, i.e., a device that is software.

[0078] The display unit may be provided with a Digital Light Processing (DLP) panel, a Plasma Display Panel, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, an Electro Luminescence (EL) panel, an Electrophoretic Display (EPD) panel, an Electrochromic Display (ECD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, or an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) panel, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] The lamp (130) may be provided on the first panel (11) of the main body (10). The lamp (130) may be provided protruding from the surface of the first panel (11) of the main body (10).

[0080] The lamp (130) can be provided with a size corresponding to the edge of the second cover (380). The lamp (130) protruding from the surface of the first panel (11) can accommodate the second cover (380).

[0081] The lamp (130) can be provided on the opening side of the receiving space (10a) of the main body (10).

[0082] The lamp (130) can be provided at a position corresponding to the edge of the second cover, can be provided in a shape corresponding to the shape of the second cover, and can be provided in a strip shape along the edge of the second cover.

[0083] The lamp (130) may be provided in a ring shape, but the shape of the lamp is not limited to this.

[0084] The lamp (130) can be one or more.

[0085] When multiple lamps are provided, the multiple lamps may be arranged adjacent to each other. It is also possible for the adjacent multiple lamps to form a ring shape through combination.

[0086] The lamp (130) can emit light of multiple colors. For example, the multiple colors may include red, yellow, green, and blue.

[0087] The lamp (130) can turn on and off, and can perform flashing by turning on and off repeatedly at regular intervals.

[0088] The touch screen (110) and the lamp (130) can output output information corresponding to at least one of the temperature of the water stored in the water tank, the amount of water stored in the water tank, and the operation information of the humidifier's operation mode.

[0089] The operating modes of the humidifier may include a humidification mode and a cleaning mode.

[0090] The speaker can output sound corresponding to at least one of the temperature of the water stored in the water tank, the amount of water stored in the water tank, and the operation information of the humidifier's operation mode.

[0091] The third panel (13) may be integrally formed to surround the perimeter surface of the main body (10).

[0092] The third panel (13) may be provided with a plurality of detachable blower panels. The plurality of blower panels may be provided to form the perimeter of the main body (10) by being combined with each other.

[0093] The third panel (13) may be provided with at least one inlet for indoor air to be introduced and at least one outlet for air inside the main body (10) to be discharged into the room.

[0094] At least one inlet and at least one outlet can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z direction) of the third panel (13).

[0095] An inlet provided in the third panel (13) may be provided below the outlet provided in the third panel (13). For example, the inlet may be provided in an area of ​​the third panel adjacent to the second panel. The outlet may be provided in a central area of ​​the third panel based on the top and bottom. For example, the central area of ​​the third panel may include an intermediate area between the first panel (11) and the second panel (12).

[0096] As shown in FIG. 2, the air purification unit (AC) provided in the humidifier (1) may include a blower (20) and a filter (30).

[0097] The blower (20) may be placed inside the main body (10). The blower (20) may be placed below the inlet based on the direction of air flow from the inlet of the third panel to the outlet of the third panel. The blower (20) may be placed above the outlet based on the direction of air flow from the inlet to the outlet. That is, the blower (20) may be placed between the inlet and the outlet.

[0098] The blower (20) can generate blowing power. The blower (20) can move air. The blower (20) can forcibly move air by rotating to create an airflow that flows inside the main body (10).

[0099] The blower (20) can cause indoor air to flow into the interior of the main body (10) and cause air inside the main body (10) to be discharged to the outside of the main body (10).

[0100] The blower (20) can cause air to move in a first direction (D1). For example, the blower (20) can cause air to move upward. Here, the first direction (D1) may be the blowing direction of the blower (20). Also, the first direction (D1) may be the flow direction of the air flowing by the blower (20). Additionally, the first direction (D1) may be the flow direction of the air from the inlet of the third panel to the outlet of the third panel.

[0101] The air purification unit (AC) may further include an air guide (25). The air guide (25) may be positioned inside the main body (10). The air guide (25) may be positioned below the blower (20). The air guide (25) can guide air flowing into the main body (10) through the inlet of the third panel toward the blower (20).

[0102] The filter (30) of the air purification unit is provided inside the main body (10) and can filter the incoming air.

[0103] The filter (30) can capture aerosols in the air.

[0104] The filter (30) may include an electrostatic precipitator that collects dust particles using the electrostatic force of an electric field.

[0105] The filter (30) may be positioned between the inlet and the outlet so that air entering through the inlet of the third panel can pass through. For example, the filter (30) may be positioned below the blower (20). The filter (30) can filter the air that enters the main body (10) through the inlet. The air filtered by the filter (30) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (10) through the outlet.

[0106] The filter (30) may include a dust collection filter such as a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter and a deodorizing and harmful substance adsorption filter such as an activated carbon filter. Such a filter (30) can remove odor substances from the air and sterilize the air by decomposing organic substances from the air.

[0107] Since the air purification unit (AC) of the humidifier (1) draws in and / or discharges air from all directions, air circulation inside the main body (10) can be smoothly achieved. Therefore, the air purification unit (AC) of the humidifier (1) can achieve high dust collection efficiency.

[0108] The humidifier (1) can perform an air purification function in the lower area of ​​the main body (10) and a humidification function in the upper area of ​​the main body (10).

[0109] The humidifier (1) can heat water in the upper region of the main body (10) to generate steam, and discharge the generated steam to the outside of the main body (10) through the steam outlet (14).

[0110] A steam outlet (14) may be provided on one side of the main body (10). For example, the steam outlet (14) may be provided on the first panel (11) of the main body (10). The steam outlet (14) may be provided on the inner side of the first panel (11).

[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the humidifier (1) may include a housing (200) provided in the upper region of the main body (10) and a water tank assembly (300) provided inside the housing (200).

[0112] The housing (200) of the humidifier can be provided inside the main body (10).

[0113] The housing (200) of the humidifier may include a receiving space (10a) for receiving a water tank assembly (300). The receiving space (10a) may be formed by being recessed on one side of the main body (10). For example, the receiving space (10a) may be formed by being recessed on the side adjacent to the first panel (11) of the main body (10).

[0114] A ramp (130) may be provided at the edge of the receiving space (10a).

[0115] A steam outlet (14) may be provided around the perimeter of the receiving space (10a).

[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the water tank assembly (300) may include a water tank (310), a water container case (320) that accommodates the water tank (310), a coupling member (330) that is provided on the upper side of the water container case (320) and coupled to the outer periphery of the water container case (320), a valve (340) provided on the upper side of the water tank (310), a guide member (350), a water distribution member (360), a first cover (370), and a second cover (380).

[0117] The water tank (310) may include a first water tank (311) and a second water tank (312) provided inside the first water tank (311).

[0118] The first tank (311) can store water. The top of the first tank (311) may be open. The first tank (311) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape, but the shape of the first tank is not limited thereto.

[0119] The second tank (312) can be provided inside the first tank (311).

[0120] The second tank (312) can store water and can receive water from the first tank (311).

[0121] The second water tank (312) may be provided adjacent to a heat source. The water in the second water tank may be heated by the heat source, turned into steam, and discharged to the outside.

[0122] The water tank case (320) can accommodate the water tank (310).

[0123] The water tank case (320) can surround the outer wall and bottom of the water tank (310).

[0124] The water tank case (320) may have a shape corresponding to the water tank (310). For example, the water tank case (320) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape.

[0125] The connecting member (330) can be connected to the water tank case (320). The connecting member (330) can be provided on the upper side of the water tank case (320).

[0126] The connecting member (330) can surround the outer surface of the guide member (350).

[0127] An air discharge hole (331) through which air passes may be provided on the outer surface of the connecting member (330). At least some of the air flowing toward the steam outlet (14) may pass through the air discharge hole (331) and then be discharged to the outside through the first cover (370).

[0128] The air exhaust holes (331) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple air exhaust holes (331) may be arranged along the edge of the outer surface of the coupling member (330).

[0129] A sealing member (332) may be provided in the connecting member (330). The sealing member (332) can seal the space between the edge of the upper part of the water tank (310) and the edge of the first guide part (131).

[0130] The valve (340) can be mounted on the upper part of the second water tank (312). The valve (340) can be mounted on the lower surface of the first guide part (351). That is, the valve (340) can be positioned between the second water tank (312) and the first guide part (351).

[0131] The valve (340) can connect the flow hole (351a) of the first guide part (351) with the second water tank (312). Steam generated in the second water tank (312) can pass through the inside of the valve (340) and flow into the outer space of the second water tank (312).

[0132] The guide member (350) can be provided on the upper side of the water tank (310).

[0133] A guide member (350) can be provided between the water tank (310) and the first cover (370).

[0134] The guide member (350) can guide water into the first tank (311) and guide steam generated inside the second tank (312) to the outside.

[0135] The guide member (350) may include a first guide part (351) and a second guide part (352).

[0136] The first guide section (351) can cover the open upper surface of the water tank (310). The first guide section (351) can partition the space of the first water tank (311) and the space of the second water tank (312).

[0137] The first guide section (351) may include a flow hole (351a). The flow hole (351a) may be open in the vertical direction. The flow hole (351a) may be provided approximately in the center of the first guide section (351). The flow hole (351a) may allow steam generated in the second water tank (312) to flow into the outer space.

[0138] The first guide section (351) may include a first water supply hole (351b). The first water supply hole (351b) may be open in an upward or downward direction. The first water supply hole (351b) may be provided as one or more.

[0139] The first water supply hole (351b) may be provided at a position corresponding to the upper side of the first water tank (311). The supplied water may flow from the outer space of the water tank (110) to the first water tank (311) through the first water supply hole (351b).

[0140] The second guide section (352) may be positioned above the first and second tanks (311, 312). Specifically, the second guide section (352) may be positioned above the first guide section (351).

[0141] The second guide section (352) and the first guide section (351) may be spaced apart from each other. Steam and / or air may flow through the space between the second guide section (352) and the first guide section (351). That is, the second guide section (352) may form a flow path together with the first guide section (351).

[0142] The second guide section (352) may include a second water supply hole (352a). The second water supply hole (352a) may be open in an upward and downward direction. The second water supply hole (352a) may be provided on the upper side of the second water tank (312). The second water supply hole (352a) may be connected to the first water supply hole (351b). The second water supply hole (352a) may be provided as one or more.

[0143] Water can flow from the outer space of the first tank (311) into the inner space of the first tank (311) through the first water supply hole (351b) and the second water supply hole (352a).

[0144] Each of the multiple second water supply holes (352a) can be provided to correspond to each of the multiple first water supply holes (351b).

[0145] The second guide portion (352) may include a steam discharge hole (352b). The steam discharge hole (352b) may be provided at the edge of the second guide portion (352). The edge of the second guide portion (352) may come into contact with the edge of the first guide portion (351), and the steam discharge hole (352b) may form the steam discharge hole (352b) together with the edge of the first guide portion (351).

[0146] The steam discharge holes (352b) may be provided in one or more.

[0147] The guide member (350) may include a sealing member (353). The sealing member (353) may seal the space between the first water supply hole (351b) and the second water supply hole (352a). The sealing member (353) may be provided in one or more than one.

[0148] The water distribution unit (360) may be positioned above the second guide unit (352). The water distribution unit (360) may be positioned below the first cover (370). That is, the water distribution unit (360) may be positioned between the second guide unit (352) and the first cover (370).

[0149] The water distribution section (360) may be configured such that the height of the central part is the highest and the height of the edge part is the lowest. For example, the water distribution section (360) may be configured in the shape of a convex disc.

[0150] The water distribution unit (360) can guide water supplied to the center of the water distribution unit (360) in the radial direction of the water distribution unit (360). Additionally, the water guided by the water distribution unit (360) can be spread uniformly to the upper surface of the second guide unit (352).

[0151] The water supplied to the water distribution unit (360) can flow into the first water tank (311) through the first and second water supply holes (351b, 352a) of the guide member (350).

[0152] The first cover (370) can cover the upper side of the guide member (350). The first cover (370) can cover the upper side of the water tank case (320). The first cover (370) can cover the upper side of the coupling member (330). The first cover (370) can be provided on the inner side of the steam outlet (14).

[0153] The first cover (370) may include a handle member (371) that the user can grasp.

[0154] The first cover (370) may include a cover opening (372). The cover opening (372) may be formed on the inner side of the first cover (370). Water supplied from the outside may flow into the water tank (310) through the cover opening (372). That is, the user can supply water to the water tank (310) by pouring water into the cover opening (372).

[0155] The first cover (370) may include a steam outlet (373). The steam outlet (373) may be provided to discharge steam generated in the second water tank (312).

[0156] A steam outlet (373) may be provided at the edge of the first cover (370). The steam outlet (373) may be opened in the vertical direction.

[0157] The first cover (370) may include an exhaust guide (374). The exhaust guide (374) may be provided on the upper side of the steam outlet (373).

[0158] The exhaust guide (374) may be provided to guide steam and / or air discharged from the steam outlet (373). The exhaust guide (374) may form a path through which the steam and / or air discharged from the steam outlet (373) passes.

[0159] The second cover (380) can be placed on the upper side of the first cover (370).

[0160] The second cover (380) can prevent the first cover (370) from being exposed to the outside.

[0161] The second cover (380) can be provided in the opening of the receiving space of the main body and can open or close the opening of the receiving space of the main body.

[0162] The second cover (380) can be provided inside the lamp (130).

[0163] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the housing (200) may include a first case (210), a second case (220), and a frame (230).

[0164] The first case (210) can be provided in the main body (10).

[0165] The first case (210) can be provided in the receiving space (10a) of the main body (10).

[0166] The first case (210) can accommodate a water tank assembly (300).

[0167] The first cover (370) of the water tank assembly (300) can be mounted on the first case (210).

[0168] When the water tank assembly (300) is accommodated in the receiving space (10a), the first case (210) can be spaced apart from the water tank case (320) of the water tank assembly (300) by the first cover (370) of the water tank assembly (300).

[0169] The second case (220) can be provided in the main body (10).

[0170] The second case (220) can be provided in the receiving space (10a) of the main body (10).

[0171] The second case (220) may be provided on the lower side of the housing (200). The second case (220) may be provided on the lower side of the first outer case (210).

[0172] The second case (220) can accommodate the water tank assembly (300). The second case (220) can be adjacent to the lower part of the water tank case (320) of the water tank assembly (300).

[0173] The frame (230) can be provided inside the main body (10) and can be provided on the lower side of the first panel (11).

[0174] The frame (230) is provided inside the housing (200), but can be provided corresponding to the edge of the housing (200).

[0175] The frame (230) can support the first case (210). The upper side of the first case (210) can be mounted on the frame (230).

[0176] The frame (230) may be provided with the same shape as the upper side of the first case (210). The frame (230) may be provided in a ring shape.

[0177] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the frame (230) may be provided with one or more weight sensors (150: R1, R2, R3, R4). The present embodiment describes a humidifier equipped with four weight sensors as an example.

[0178] A plurality of weight sensors (150) may each include a load cell, and the types of weight sensors are not limited thereto.

[0179] A plurality of weight sensors (150) may be provided on the lower side of the frame (230) at regular intervals.

[0180] A plurality of weight sensors (150) may be provided in a ring-shaped frame (230) and may be provided facing the inner side of the frame (230).

[0181] A first case (210) mounted on a frame (230) can be in contact with a plurality of weight sensors (150).

[0182] As illustrated in FIG. 7, a protruding member (211) that protrudes from the outside of the first case (210) and protrudes downward from the first case (210) may be in contact with each of the plurality of weight sensors (150). That is, by mounting the first case (210) on the frame (230), the protruding member (211) of the first case (210) may be in contact with each of the plurality of weight sensors (150).

[0183] A plurality of weight sensors (150) can detect the weight of the first case (210) mounted on the plurality of weight sensors (150) provided on the frame (230).

[0184] Since the water tank assembly (300) is mounted on the first case (210), the weight detected by the plurality of weight sensors (150) may be the sum of the weight of the first case (210) and the water tank assembly (300).

[0185] When water is stored in the water tank (310) of the water tank assembly (300), the weight detected by the plurality of weight sensors (150) may be the sum of the weight of the first case (210), the weight of the water tank assembly (300), and the weight of the water.

[0186] The weight detected by a plurality of weight sensors (150) can be used to detect the weight of water stored in the water tank (310). Here, the weight of the water may include the amount of water.

[0187] The accuracy of detecting the amount of water can be improved by using multiple weight sensors (150) to detect the amount of water stored in the water tank (310).

[0188] Referring to FIG. 8, a method of detecting weight using a plurality of weight sensors (150) is described.

[0189] Under no-load condition, the weight detected by multiple weight sensors is as follows.

[0190] V AB=(R1 / (R1+R2))×V, V AD =(R4 / (R3+R4))×V,

[0191] E=V AB - V AD =((R1R3-R2R4) / (R1+R2)(R3+R4))×V

[0192] Under load, the weight detected by multiple weight sensors is as follows.

[0193] △E= (S1 / S2)×V

[0194] S1=(R1+△R1)×(R3+△R3) -(R2+△R2)×(R4+△R4)

[0195] S2= (R1+△R1+R2+△R2)×(R3+△R3+R4+△R4)

[0196] Weight = E - △E

[0197] The second case (220) may be formed of a material having relatively high magnetic field transmittance and heat resistance. For example, the second case (220) may be formed of a material such as heat-resistant glass, ceramic, or heat-resistant plastic.

[0198] The water tank (310) may be provided in multiple layers. At least one layer of the water tank (310) may be formed of STS304, a stainless steel material that is resistant to heat and corrosion. Another layer of the water tank (310) may be formed of aluminum, a metal with good thermal conductivity. Yet another layer of the water tank (310) may be formed of STS430, a stainless steel material that has excellent heat generation characteristics against magnetic fields.

[0199] The lower surface of the water tank (310) may include a protrusion (311a) that contacts the water tank case (320) and a recess (311b) that is recessed into the interior of the water tank (310) and is provided to contact the temperature sensor (160).

[0200] The protrusion (311a) of the water tank (310) can be seated in the water tank case (320).

[0201] The recess (311b) of the water tank (310) can be provided in correspondence with the induction heating coil (240).

[0202] The water tank case (320) may be formed in a cylindrical shape and arranged to surround the water tank (310), and the top and bottom of the water tank case (320) may be open. The water tank case (320) may be formed of plastic material rather than metal material.

[0203] As shown in FIG. 9, the humidifier (1) may include a heating source (240).

[0204] A heating source (240) may be provided inside the housing (200). A heating source (240) may be provided on the lower side inside the housing (200).

[0205] The heating source (240) can be provided at a position corresponding to the recess (311b) of the water tank (310).

[0206] A heating source (240) may be provided to heat the water stored in the second water tank (312).

[0207] The heating source (240) may include a heater that generates heat and / or an induction heating coil configured to generate a magnetic field. This embodiment describes a humidifier equipped with an induction heating coil. Hereinafter, the same reference numeral 240 will be used to denote the heating source and the induction heating coil.

[0208] An induction heating coil can generate an induction current in at least one part of the water tank (310) to heat the water. For example, when the induction heating coil operates, the recess (311b) of the water tank (310) is heated, and the water inside the water tank (110) is heated to generate steam.

[0209] As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the humidifier (1) may include a temperature sensor (160) that detects the temperature of water stored in a water tank (310) and a sensor case (250) that protects the temperature sensor (160).

[0210] A temperature sensor (160) can be provided inside the housing (200).

[0211] A temperature sensor (160) can be provided at the center of the lower side of the housing (200).

[0212] A temperature sensor (160) can be provided in the central area of ​​the induction heating coil (240).

[0213] A temperature sensor (160) can be provided at a location corresponding to the second tank (312) of the water tank (310).

[0214] When the water tank (310) of the water tank assembly (300) is received in the second case (220), the temperature sensor (160) can come into contact with the second water tank (312) of the water tank (310). The temperature sensor (160) can detect the temperature of the water stored in the second water tank (312) of the water tank (310).

[0215] The sensor case (250) can be provided inside the housing (200).

[0216] The sensor case (250) can be provided in the center of the lower side of the housing (200).

[0217] The sensor case (250) may be provided in the central region of the induction heating coil (240). That is, a case receiving groove (241) may be provided in the central region of the induction heating coil (240). The case receiving groove (241) of the induction heating coil (240) may be provided at a position corresponding to the second water tank (312).

[0218] The sensor case (250) may be provided in a case receiving groove (241) provided in the induction heating coil (240). The sensor case (250) may be provided at a position corresponding to the second water tank (312) of the water tank (310).

[0219] The sensor case (250) can accommodate a temperature sensor (160) inside. The sensor case (250) can accommodate a portion of the temperature sensor (160) inside. The remaining portion of the temperature sensor (160) accommodated inside the sensor case (250) can be exposed to the outside.

[0220] The sensor case (250) can be made of an elastic material.

[0221] When the water tank (310) of the water tank assembly (300) is received in the second case (220) and pressurized by the water tank (310), the sensor case (250) can have its shape deformed by elastic force. For example, when the sensor case (250) is pressurized by the water tank (310), its shape can be deformed in a downward direction.

[0222] The sensor case (250) has its elasticity adjusted in response to the weight of the water tank (310), and by adjusting the elasticity, the temperature sensor (160) can be made to always be in contact with the recess (311b) on the lower surface of the water tank (310).

[0223] Since the elastic modulus of the sensor case (250) of the present embodiment is lower than that of a conventional sensor case, it is easy to adjust the elastic force in response to the weight of the water tank (310). The elastic force of the sensor case (250) of the present embodiment may be higher than that of a conventional sensor case. Therefore, when detecting the weight of the water tank (310) using a plurality of weight sensors (150), the error in the weight of the water tank caused by the elastic force of the sensor case (250) can be minimized. This will be explained with reference to FIGS. 11, 12, and 13.

[0224] FIG. 11 is an external view of a temperature sensor and a sensor case provided in a humidifier, and FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are cross-sectional views of a sensor case provided in a humidifier.

[0225] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the sensor case (250) may include an elastic support (250a) and an elastic body (250b).

[0226] The elastic support (250a) can be provided in the upper region of the sensor case (250).

[0227] A sensor receiving groove may be provided in the elastic support member (250a), and a temperature sensor (160) may be provided in the sensor receiving groove.

[0228] A temperature sensor (160) may be provided in the elastic support (250a) so as to be exposed to the outside. The temperature sensor (160) exposed in the elastic support (250a) may come into contact with the lower surface of the water tank (310).

[0229] The elastic support (250a) can support the water tank (310). The elastic support (250a) can support the water tank assembly (300) housed inside the housing. The elastic support (250a) can come into contact with the lower surface of the water tank (310).

[0230] The elastic support member (250a) may be made of an elastic material. The elastic support member (250a) moves downward when pressurized by the water tank (310), and may move while being pressed. That is, the shape of the elastic support member (250a) may change as it is pressurized by the water tank (310).

[0231] The elastic support member (250a) may include a first elastic surface (251) and a second elastic surface (252).

[0232] The first elastic surface (251) can come into contact with the lower surface of the water tank (310).

[0233] A temperature sensor (160) may be provided in the center of the first elastic surface (251). The first elastic surface (251) may include an inclined surface that slopes outward with the temperature sensor (160) as the center.

[0234] When viewed from above, the first elastic surface (251) may have a circular shape centered on the temperature sensor (160). When viewed from the front, the first elastic surface (251) may have a conical shape.

[0235] The second elastic surface (252) may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the edge of the first elastic surface (251). The second elastic surface (252) may be cylindrical in shape. The second elastic surface (252) may have a first height (h1) based on the edge of the first elastic surface (251).

[0236] The second elastic surface (252) can move downward when pressurized by the water tank (310). The shape of the second elastic surface (252) can change while pressurized by the water tank (310).

[0237] The elastic body (250b) can be provided in the lower region of the sensor case (250).

[0238] The elastic body (250b) can be inserted into a case receiving groove (241) provided in the induction heating coil (240). The diameter of the elastic body (250b) can correspond to the diameter of the case receiving groove (241).

[0239] An elastic groove may be provided in the center of the elastic body (250b).

[0240] An elastic support member (250a) may be provided in the elastic groove of the elastic body (250b). The diameter of the elastic groove of the elastic body (250b) may be larger than the diameter of the second elastic surface of the elastic support member (250a).

[0241] The elastic body (250b) may be made of an elastic material. When the elastic support (250a) of the elastic body (250b) is pressed by the water tank (310), the elastic body (250b) moves to the lower side of the sensor case (250) together with the elastic support (250a), and can move while being pressed. That is, when the elastic support (250a) of the elastic body (250b) is pressed by the water tank (310), the moving force of the water tank (310) is transmitted, and the elastic body (250b) can move to the lower side of the sensor case (240) together with the elastic support (250a). As a result, the shape of the elastic body (250b) can change.

[0242] The elastic body (250b) may include a third elastic surface (253) and an elastic frame (254).

[0243] The third elastic surface (253) is provided inside the elastic frame (254), but can be provided by being recessed inside the elastic frame (254). That is, the third elastic surface (253) can form an elastic groove of the elastic frame (254).

[0244] Based on the lower surface of the sensor case (250), the second height (h2) of the elastic frame (254) may be higher than the height (h3) of the third elastic surface (253).

[0245] The diameter of the third elastic surface (253) may be smaller than the diameter of the elastic frame (254) and larger than the diameter of the second elastic surface (252).

[0246] The third elastic surface (253) may be made of an elastic member. When the elastic support member (250a) is pressed by the water tank (310), the third elastic surface (253) may move to the lower side of the sensor case by the moving force of the elastic support member (250a). The shape of the third elastic surface (253) may change while being pressed by the water tank (310).

[0247] The elastic frame (254) may include an inner elastic surface that is adjacent to the third elastic surface (253) and is formed vertically from the third elastic surface (253) to form an elastic groove, an upper elastic surface that is provided on the upper side of the inner elastic surface and is provided in a horizontal direction, and an outer elastic surface that is provided vertically from the upper elastic surface and is provided parallel to the inner elastic surface.

[0248] The elastic frame (254) can be inserted into the case receiving groove (241) provided in the induction heating coil (240).

[0249] The elastic frame (254) can be inserted into the case receiving groove (241) provided in the induction heating coil (240) through the hole formed in the second case (220).

[0250] The hole formed in the second case (220) may be a hole provided at a position corresponding to the case receiving groove (241) provided in the induction heating coil (240).

[0251] The elastic frame (254) can seal the hole formed in the second case (220). The elastic frame (254) can perform a sealing function.

[0252] This elastic frame (254) can prevent water supplied to the humidifier's water tank (310) from overflowing and being transferred to the induction heating coil (240).

[0253] The elastic frame (254) can prevent water from flowing into the water tank (310) and the first case (210) of the humidifier through the sealing of the hole formed in the second case (220), thereby preventing the water from being transferred to the induction heating coil (240).

[0254] As shown in FIG. 12, the first elastic surface (251), second elastic surface (252), third elastic surface (253) and elastic frame (254) of the sensor case (250) may have a reference thickness (th).

[0255] The first elastic surface (251), second elastic surface (252), third elastic surface (253), and elastic frame (254) of the sensor case (250) may have a thickness within a reference thickness range. Here, the reference thickness range may include from a first reference thickness (th1) to a second reference thickness (th2). Here, the first reference thickness (th1) and the reference thickness (th) may be the same.

[0256] An empty space may be formed inside this sensor case (250).

[0257] The sensor case (250) may further include an internal support member (255) that is provided inside the sensor case (250) and accommodates a temperature sensor (160) and protects and supports the accommodated temperature sensor (160).

[0258] The internal support member (255) may be provided in a cylindrical shape. The internal support member (255) may be provided in a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0259] The internal support member (255) may be made of an elastic material. The internal support member (255) may move to the lower side of the sensor case (250) when the first elastic surface is pressed by the water tank (310).

[0260] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the sensor case (250) may include an elasticity increasing part for increasing the elasticity of the sensor case (250).

[0261] The elastic force increasing portion of the sensor case (250) may be provided inside the sensor case (250). Here, the increase in elastic force may include a decrease in the elastic modulus.

[0262] The elastic force increasing portion of the sensor case (250) may be provided around the sensor receiving groove in which the temperature sensor is received.

[0263] The elastic force increasing portion of the sensor case (250) may be provided at the part where different elastic surfaces among the elastic surfaces provided in the sensor case (250) meet.

[0264] The elastic force increasing portion of the sensor case (250) may include a cutting portion for reducing the thickness of the portion where different elastic surfaces forming the sensor case (250) meet.

[0265] The portion where different elastic surfaces meet may include a portion where elastic surfaces with different formation directions meet.

[0266] The area where elastic surfaces formed in different directions meet may be a part that hinders deformation when deformed by pressure.

[0267] The part where elastic surfaces formed in different directions meet may have a thickness thinner than the reference thickness (th) due to the cutting section.

[0268] The part where elastic surfaces formed in different directions meet may have a thickness thinner than the first reference thickness (th1) due to the cutting part.

[0269] The cutting portion may include at least one cutting groove.

[0270] The cutting portion may include a chamfer.

[0271] The sensor case (250) may include a first cutting groove (256) provided in a first portion where the first elastic surface (251) and the second elastic surface (252) of the elastic support portion (250a) meet.

[0272] The sensor case (250) may include a chamfer (258) cut at a second portion where the second elastic surface (252) of the elastic support (250a) and the third elastic surface (253) of the elastic frame (254) meet.

[0273] The sensor case (250) may include a second cutting groove (257) provided in a third portion where the third elastic surface (253) of the elastic body (250b) and the inner elastic surface of the elastic frame (254) meet.

[0274] The sensor case (250) may also include at least one of a first cutting groove (256), a second cutting groove (257), and a chamfer (258).

[0275] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the sensor case (250) may include only a second cutting groove (257) provided at the portion where the third elastic surface (253) of the elastic body (250b) and the inner elastic surface of the elastic frame (254) meet.

[0276] The sensor case (250) including the cutting section can reduce the error in the detected weight when the weight of the water tank (310) is detected using the weight sensor (150). This will be explained in more detail.

[0277] If the amount of water stored in the water tank (310) is less than the reference amount and the elastic modulus of the sensor case (250) is greater than the reference elastic modulus, the compression of the sensor case (250) by the water tank (310) becomes limited. At this time, when detecting the weight of the water tank (310) using the weight sensor (150) due to the force with which the sensor case (250) supports the water tank (310), the error in weight detection increases. That is, the weight sensor (105) cannot detect the actual weight of the water tank (310) due to the force with which the sensor case (250) supports the water tank (310).

[0278] On the other hand, if the amount of water stored in the water tank (310) is greater than the reference amount and the elastic modulus of the sensor case (250) is smaller than the reference elastic modulus, the compression of the sensor case (250) by the water tank (310) becomes unrestricted. At this time, since the force of the sensor case (250) supporting the water tank (310) is removed, the error in weight detection is reduced when detecting the weight of the water tank (310) using the weight sensor (150). That is, the weight sensor (150) can detect the actual weight of the water tank (310) because it is hardly affected by the force of the sensor case (250) supporting the water tank. In other words, since the actual weight of the water tank (310) acts on the multiple weight sensors (150), the multiple weight sensors (150) can detect the actual weight of the water tank (310).

[0279] This embodiment allows for precise detection of the weight of the water tank (310) even when the amount of water stored in the water tank (310), which is supported by a sensor case (250) provided with a cutting part, is small.

[0280] FIG. 14 is a control configuration diagram of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which will be explained with reference to FIG. 15 to FIG. 21.

[0281] FIG. 15 is an example of a display of a display unit of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16 to 21 are example of an output of a lamp of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0282] The humidifier (1) may include an input unit (111), a display unit (112), a speaker (120), a lamp (130), a locking member (140), a weight sensor (150), a temperature sensor (160), and a control unit (170).

[0283] Here, the display unit (112), speaker (120), and lamp (130) may be the output units of the humidifier.

[0284] The user interface (100) can receive input from the user or output operation information of the humidifier (1) to the user. The user interface (100) can be provided as a touch screen (110).

[0285] The user interface (100) may include an input section (111) and a display section (112).

[0286] The input unit (111) can receive user input and transmit the received user information to the control unit (170).

[0287] For example, user input may include a humidifier on command, a humidifier off command, a command to execute humidification mode, and a command to execute cleaning mode. As another example, user input may further include a command to execute air purification mode.

[0288] The input unit (111) can receive at least one of a humidification level and an air purification level, and can further receive information on the reservation time of the washing mode.

[0289] The input unit (111) can also receive a command to unlock the water tank.

[0290] The display unit (112) can display information corresponding to the control command of the control unit (170).

[0291] The display unit (112) can display information on the operation of the humidifier, information on the operation of the humidifier off, and information on the operation mode currently being performed.

[0292] The display unit (112) can further display at least one of the target humidity, humidification level, and air correction level.

[0293] The display unit (112) can further display information on the reservation time of the washing mode and guidance information for the washing mode.

[0294] The display unit (112) may also display guidance information regarding the possibility of unlocking the water tank.

[0295] The display unit (112) can display information about the amount of water stored in the water tank and the temperature of the water.

[0296] The display unit (112) can also display guidance information for water replenishment.

[0297] The display unit (112) can display information about the humidification time.

[0298] The display unit (112) can also display pollution level information such as the amount of fine dust.

[0299] The speaker (120) can output information corresponding to a control command of the control unit (170) as sound. The sound may include at least one of a melody, a buzzer sound, and a voice.

[0300] The speaker (120) can output sound information regarding the operation on and off of the humidifier.

[0301] The speaker (120) can output acoustic information corresponding to changes in the humidification level and air correction level.

[0302] The speaker (120) can output voice information regarding the reservation time of the washing mode and guidance information for the washing mode.

[0303] The speaker (120) can also output sound information regarding the possibility of unlocking the water tank.

[0304] The speaker (120) can also output sound information about the amount of water stored in the water tank, the temperature of the water, guidance information for water replenishment, and the humidification time.

[0305] The lamp (130) may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the type of lamp is not limited thereto.

[0306] The lamp (130) may include a plurality of light-emitting diodes that emit light of one or more colors.

[0307] Multiple light-emitting diodes can emit light of different colors. For example, different colors may include red, yellow, green, and blue.

[0308] Multiple light-emitting diodes may include color-changing RGB LEDs.

[0309] The lamp (130) can turn on and off by a control command from the control unit (170), and can perform flashing by repeating turning on and off at regular intervals.

[0310] The brightness of the lamp (130) can be adjusted by controlling the applied current based on the control of the control unit (170).

[0311] The lighting area of ​​the lamp (130) may be divided into multiple areas. The multiple lighting areas of the lamp may be individually lit by a control command of the control unit (170).

[0312] That is, the lamp (130) can turn on, turn off, or turn on in response to a control command from the control unit (170).

[0313] The lamp (130) can light up in a color corresponding to the control command of the control unit (170) or flash.

[0314] The lamp (130) can turn on or off in response to the operation on or off of the humidifier.

[0315] The lamp (130) can light up or flash based on at least one of the amount of water stored in the water tank (310) and the temperature of the water.

[0316] The lamp (130) can flash or light up in response to the replenishment of water in the water tank.

[0317] The lamp (130) can light up in a color corresponding to the humidification time.

[0318] The lamp (130) can be lit based on the progress information of the cleaning mode.

[0319] The progress information of the cleaning mode may include information about the time the cleaning mode was performed.

[0320] The lamp (130) can be turned on, turned off, or flashed in response to the air purification mode.

[0321] The locking member (140) may be a device that restricts the inflow and outflow of the water tank.

[0322] The locking member (140) may be provided in the housing (200) and may be connected to or detachably provided to the water tank (310).

[0323] The locking member (140) can be fastened to the water tank (310) to change the water tank (310) to a locked state, or detached from the water tank (310) to change the water tank (310) to an unlocked state.

[0324] The locking member (140) can change the water tank (310) to a locked state in response to a control command from the control unit (170), or change the water tank (310) to an unlocked state in response to a control command from the control unit (170).

[0325] The locking member (140) can change the water tank (310) to a locked state by a lock command received through the input unit (111), or change the water tank (310) to an unlocked state by an unlock command received through the input unit (111).

[0326] The weight sensor (150) detects the weight of the water tank assembly and the weight of the first case (210). Based on the water being stored in the water tank (310), the weight of the water tank assembly (300) may include the weight of the water tank (310).

[0327] Based on the fact that water is not stored in the water tank (310), the weight of the water tank assembly (300) may include only the weight of the water tank assembly (300).

[0328] That is, based on the water being stored in the water tank (310), the weight sensor (150) can detect the weight of the water, the weight of the water tank assembly (300), and the weight of the first case (210).

[0329] The weight sensor (150) can detect weight and transmit weight information about the detected weight to the control unit (170).

[0330] The temperature sensor (160) can detect the temperature of the water tank (310) and transmit temperature information regarding the detected temperature of the water tank to the control unit (170).

[0331] The temperature of the water tank (310) may include the temperature of the second water tank (312) of the water tank.

[0332] The humidifier (1) may further include a humidity sensor (not shown) that detects indoor humidity.

[0333] The humidity sensor can detect indoor humidity and transmit humidity information regarding the detected indoor humidity to the control unit (170).

[0334] The humidifier (1) may further include an air purification unit (AC) equipped with a blower (20) and a filter (30), and may further include a pollution level sensor (not shown).

[0335] The pollution sensor can detect the pollution level of the polluted air and transmit pollution level information regarding the detected pollution level to the control unit (170).

[0336] There may be one or more pollution sensors. The two or more pollution sensors may be of the same type or different types.

[0337] The pollution level sensor may include at least one of a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor, a particulate matter (PM) sensor, and a gas sensor.

[0338] The gas sensor can detect at least one gas among carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, alcohol, methane, and formaldehyde, and the types of gases detected by the gas sensor are not limited thereto.

[0339] The humidifier (1) may further include a communication unit.

[0340] The communication unit may include various communication circuits for performing wired communication and / or wireless communication with external devices (e.g., home appliances, user devices).

[0341] The communication unit can transmit information or data to an external device or receive information or data from an external device. For example, the communication unit can receive an operating mode and a humidification level from a user device. The communication unit can also transmit information such as water replenishment, humidification time, and cleaning mode guidance information to the user device.

[0342] The communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication circuit and a long-range communication circuit.

[0343] For example, the communications unit may support cellular communication, wireless local area network, home radio frequency (RF), infrared communication, ultra-wide band (UWB) communication, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, AD-HOC, and / or Zigbee. The communication technologies supported by the communications unit are not limited to those exemplified.

[0344] The communications unit can also communicate with external devices through an access point (AP).

[0345] The control unit (170) can be electrically connected to various components of the humidifier and can control various components. That is, the control unit (170) can control the overall operation of the humidifier (1).

[0346] The control unit (170) can control the operation of the humidifier (1) based on user input received by the input unit (111).

[0347] The control unit (170) can control the operation of the heating source (240) based on user input received through the input unit (111).

[0348] The control unit (170) can control the heating source based on the humidification mode and humidification level, and can control the heating source (240) based on the cleaning mode.

[0349] The control unit (170) may also control the display unit to recognize the time of execution of the next washing mode based on the time of execution of the washing mode, and to output guidance information regarding the recognized time of execution of the next washing mode. That is, the control unit (170) may control the display unit to periodically output guidance information regarding the time of execution of the washing mode.

[0350] The control unit (170) can also control the heating source (240) based on the indoor humidity detected by the humidity sensor and the target humidity received by the input unit (111).

[0351] As illustrated in FIG. 15, the control unit (170) may also control the display unit (112) to display indoor humidity information detected by the humidity sensor and target humidity information received by the input unit (111).

[0352] The control unit (170) can control the rotational speed of the blower (20) and control the charge of the filter (30) based on the air purification mode and the air purification level.

[0353] The control unit (170) can also control the blower (20) and the filter (30) based on the pollution level detected by the pollution level sensor.

[0354] As illustrated in FIG. 15, the control unit (170) may also control the display unit (112) to display pollution level information detected by the pollution level sensor.

[0355] The control unit (170) can recognize the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information received from the weight sensor (150).

[0356] The control unit (170) can recognize the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information received from the weight sensor (150), weight information of the water tank assembly, and weight information of the first case.

[0357] When multiple weight sensors are provided, the control unit (170) can accurately recognize the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information received from each of the multiple weight sensors (see FIG. 8).

[0358] The control unit (170) can recognize the temperature of the water stored in the water tank based on temperature information received from the temperature sensor (150).

[0359] The control unit (170) can recognize the temperature of the water stored in the second tank of the water tank based on temperature information received from the temperature sensor (150).

[0360] The control unit (170) can control at least one of the display unit (112), speaker (120), and lamp (130) so that output information related to the operation of the humidifier (1) is output.

[0361] The control unit (170) can control the output of at least one of the display unit (112), speaker (120), and lamp (130) based on at least one of the operating information of the recognized water temperature, the recognized amount of water, and the operating mode of the humidifier.

[0362] The operation mode may include a humidification mode and a water tank cleaning mode.

[0363] The operation information of the humidification mode may include information on the humidification time and may include the humidification level.

[0364] The operation information of the washing mode may include information regarding the duration of the washing mode.

[0365] For example, the control unit (170) can control the lamp (130) to output guidance information corresponding to the humidification mode and can control the lamp (130) to output guidance information corresponding to the washing mode.

[0366] As another example, the control unit (170) can control the lamp to emit a first color of light in response to the performance of the humidification mode, and can control the lamp to emit a second color of light in response to the performance of the washing mode.

[0367] The control unit (170) may also control at least one of the display unit (112), speaker (120), and lamp (130) based on pollution level information detected by the pollution level sensor.

[0368] The control unit (170) can control the brightness of the lamp (130) by controlling the current applied to the lamp (130).

[0369] When an RGB LED is provided in the lamp (130), the control unit (170) can control the color of the lamp by controlling the signal applied to the RGB LED terminal.

[0370] When a plurality of light-emitting diodes are provided in the lamp (130), the control unit (170) can control the color and brightness of the lamp (130) by controlling the current applied to at least one light-emitting diode.

[0371] When a plurality of lighting areas are provided in the lamp (130), the control unit (170) can control the color and brightness of the light emitted through at least one lighting area by controlling the current applied to at least one lighting area.

[0372] The control unit (170) identifies whether the temperature of the water tank is below a first reference temperature based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160), and can automatically control the unlocking of the lock member (140) based on the identification that the temperature of the water tank is below the first reference temperature.

[0373] The control unit (170) identifies whether the temperature of the water tank exceeds the first reference temperature and is below the second reference temperature, and if the temperature of the water tank is identified as exceeding the first reference temperature and is below the second reference temperature, it identifies whether an unlock command of the input unit (111) is received.

[0374] The second reference temperature may be higher than the first reference temperature.

[0375] The control unit (170) controls the unlocking of the lock member when it receives an unlock command from the input unit (111).

[0376] The control unit (170) controls the locking of the locking member (140) based on the fact that the temperature of the water tank is above the second reference temperature. That is, the control unit (170) can control the inability to unlock the locking member (140) based on the fact that the temperature of the water tank is above the second reference temperature.

[0377] The control unit (170) can invalidate the unlock command received through the input unit (111) if the temperature of the water tank is above the second reference temperature.

[0378] The control unit (170) can output guidance information and image guidance information regarding the inability to unlock the locking member through the display unit or through the speaker if the temperature of the water tank is above the second reference temperature.

[0379] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to output information about the temperature of the water tank and information about the locking guide of the water tank at the time of entering the end of the humidification mode.

[0380] The control unit (170) can control the display unit to output guidance information for automatic unlocking of the lock member based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160), and to recognize whether the recognized temperature of the water tank is below a first reference temperature, and to output guidance information for manual unlocking of the lock member through the input unit when the temperature of the water tank is identified as exceeding the first reference temperature and below a second reference temperature.

[0381] The control unit (170) may also control the display unit (112) to recognize the unlockable time of the lock member based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) and output guidance information regarding the recognized unlockable time of the lock member.

[0382] The control unit (170) can also control the speaker (120) to output various guidance information as sound.

[0383] The configuration of a control unit that controls the output of an output unit based on at least one of the recognized water temperature, the recognized amount of water, and the operation information of the humidifier's operation mode is described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 22.

[0384] The control unit (170) recognizes the operation mode received by the input unit (111).

[0385] The control unit (170) controls the operation of the heating source (240) based on the fact that the operation mode received by the input unit (111) is a humidification mode.

[0386] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to recognize the amount of water stored in the water tank (310) based on weight information detected by the weight sensor (150) from the time of entry into the humidification mode until the time of termination of the humidification mode, and to output water amount information corresponding to the recognized amount of water.

[0387] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display the amount of water recognized as a numerical value, and can also control the lamp (130) to output the amount of water recognized as the size of the lighting area.

[0388] As illustrated in FIG. 16a, the control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display 75% of the amount of water based on the fact that the amount of water recognized at the time of entering the humidification mode is 75% of the maximum amount of water that can be stored in the water tank (310), and can control the lamp (130) so that 75% of the entire lighting area of ​​the lamp is lit with a first color.

[0389] As illustrated in FIG. 16b, the control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display 25% of the amount of water based on the fact that the amount of water recognized during the performance of the humidification mode is 25% of the maximum amount of water that can be stored in the water tank (310), and can control the lamp (130) so that 25% of the entire lighting area of ​​the lamp is lit in a first color.

[0390] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to recognize the humidification time based on the amount of water recognized at the time of entering the humidification mode and to output humidification time information for the recognized humidification time.

[0391] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to recognize the humidification time corresponding to the amount of water recognized and the humidification level received in the input unit based on the information stored in the memory (172) at the time of entering the humidification mode, and to output humidification time information for the recognized humidification time. Here, the humidification level may include the amount of water vapor output for a certain period of time.

[0392] As illustrated in FIGS. 17a and 17b, the control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display recognized humidification time information at the time of entering the humidification mode, recognize the color of the lamp corresponding to the recognized humidification time information, and control the lamp (130) so that the entire lighting area of ​​the lamp is lit with the recognized color.

[0393] The lighting color of the lamp may vary depending on the humidification time. Information regarding the lamp lighting color according to the humidification time may be stored in memory.

[0394] The control unit (170) may also periodically recognize a humidification time corresponding to the amount of water recognized and the humidification level received by the input unit (111) based on information stored in the memory (172) during the performance of the humidification mode, and control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to output humidification time information for the recognized humidification time.

[0395] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to recognize temperature information of the water tank based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) from the time of entry into the humidification mode, recognize preheating information of the humidifier based on the recognized temperature information of the water tank, and output the recognized preheating information.

[0396] When the control unit (170) recognizes preheating information of the humidifier, it can recognize the ratio of the recognized water tank temperature to the maximum temperature. The ratio of the recognized water tank temperature to the maximum temperature may include a percentage.

[0397] As illustrated in FIG. 18, the control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to recognize preheating information of the humidifier from the time of entry into the humidification mode and to display the recognized preheating information, recognize the ratio of the recognized water tank temperature to the maximum temperature, recognize the size of the lamp lighting area based on the recognized ratio, and control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the size of the recognized lamp lighting area.

[0398] The control unit (170) can control the lamp (130) so that the size of the lamp's lighting area increases based on the increase in the water temperature as the humidification mode progresses.

[0399] When controlling the display of preheating information, the control unit (170) can recognize the color of the lamp (130) corresponding to the water temperature information and control the lamp (130) so that the lamp (130) lights up with the recognized color of the lamp.

[0400] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to identify whether the amount of water recognized is less than the amount of standard water when entering the humidification mode or while performing the humidification mode, and to output guidance information to guide water replenishment based on the fact that the amount of water recognized is identified as less than the amount of standard water.

[0401] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the control unit (170) may also control the display unit (112) to output guidance information for water replenishment as text.

[0402] The control unit (170) can recognize lighting information of a lamp corresponding to water replenishment and control the lighting of the lamp based on the recognized lighting information of the lamp.

[0403] For example, the control unit (170) can recognize a color corresponding to water replenishment and control the lamp (130) to repeatedly turn on and off at preset time intervals with the recognized color. That is, the control unit (170) can recognize a color corresponding to water replenishment and control the flashing of the lamp with the recognized color.

[0404] As another example, the control unit (170) may also control the flashing speed of the lamp in response to the decrease in the amount of water from the point when the amount of water reaches below the reference amount of water. That is, the control unit (170) can control the flashing speed of the lamp to be faster as the amount of water in the water tank decreases.

[0405] As another example, the control unit (170) recognizes a color corresponding to water replenishment and controls the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color, and can control the brightness of the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp changes.

[0406] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the control unit (170) recognizes a color corresponding to water replenishment and controls the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color, and controls the lamp (130) so that the brightness of the lamp (130) gradually decreases, controls the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp gradually increases when the brightness of the lamp reaches a minimum brightness, and controls the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp gradually decreases when the brightness of the lamp reaches a maximum brightness.

[0407] After outputting guidance information for water replenishment, the control unit (170) recognizes whether the weight of the water tank increases based on weight information received from the weight sensor (150), and if it recognizes that the weight of the water tank increases, it recognizes that water is being replenished in the water tank.

[0408] When the control unit (170) recognizes that water is being replenished in the water tank, it can control the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) to recognize the amount of water based on weight information received from the weight sensor (150) and output information about the recognized amount of water.

[0409] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the control unit (170) controls the display unit (112) to display information about the amount of water, and can control the display unit (112) to recognize the ratio of the amount of water recognized to the maximum amount of water and to display information about the ratio of the replenished water as a numerical value.

[0410] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the control unit (170) recognizes the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp based on the ratio of the replenished water, and can control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the recognized size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp.

[0411] That is, the control unit (170) can control the lamp (130) so that the size of the lamp's lighting area increases based on the increase in the amount of water as water replenishment proceeds.

[0412] The control unit (170) may also control the termination of the humidification mode based on the amount of water in the water tank being less than a certain amount of water. The certain amount of water may be less than the amount of reference water.

[0413] The control unit (170) stops the operation of the heating source (240) when a command to end the humidification mode is received through the input unit (111).

[0414] The control unit (170) can control the lamp (130) and the display unit (112) to recognize the temperature information of the water tank based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) after the humidification mode ends, recognize the residual heat information of the humidifier based on the recognized temperature information of the water tank, and output the recognized residual heat information of the humidifier.

[0415] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display temperature information of the water tank as a numerical value, and can control the display unit (112) to display safety guidance information that may be generated by residual heat of the humidifier's water tank.

[0416] As illustrated in FIG. 21, the control unit (170) can control the display unit to display safety guidance information indicating that there is a possibility of an image.

[0417] The control unit (170) can recognize lighting information for a lamp corresponding to residual heat guidance based on the recognized temperature of the water tank being above a reference temperature, and control the lighting of the lamp based on the recognized lighting information. Here, the reference temperature may be a second reference temperature for locking control of a locking member.

[0418] For example, the control unit (170) can recognize a color corresponding to the residual heat of the water tank and control the lamp (130) to repeatedly turn on and off at preset time intervals with the recognized color.

[0419] As another example, the control unit (170) recognizes a color corresponding to the residual heat of the water tank and controls the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color, and can control the brightness of the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp changes.

[0420] As illustrated in FIG. 21, the control unit (170) recognizes a color corresponding to the residual heat of the water tank and controls the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color, and controls the lamp (130) so that the brightness of the lamp (130) gradually decreases, controls the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp gradually increases when the brightness of the lamp reaches a minimum brightness, and controls the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp gradually decreases when the brightness of the lamp reaches a maximum brightness.

[0421] The control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to output guidance information for the washing mode based on receiving a command to perform the washing mode through the input unit (111).

[0422] For example, the control unit (170) can control the display unit (112) to display washing guidance information regarding the type of washing detergent, the amount of detergent to be added, the amount of water to be supplied, the washing time, and the rinsing guidance.

[0423] The control unit (170) can control the heating source (240) when a cleaning start command is received through the input unit (111).

[0424] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the control unit (170) can control the display unit to count the washing time during the execution of the washing mode, recognize the remaining time based on the total washing time and the counted washing time, and display the recognized remaining time.

[0425] The control unit (170) can recognize a color corresponding to the washing mode and control the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color.

[0426] The control unit (170) can recognize the total time required for washing in the washing mode and the ratio of the counted time to the total time required for washing temperature.

[0427] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the control unit (170) recognizes the ratio of the counted time to the total cleaning time temperature, recognizes the size of the lamp's lighting area based on the recognized ratio, and can control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the size of the recognized lamp's lighting area.

[0428] The control unit (170) can control the lamp (130) so that the size of the lamp's lighting area increases based on the elapsed time of the cleaning mode.

[0429] The control unit (170) may also control at least one of the display unit and the speaker to output guidance information indicating completion of washing based on the time counted during the execution of the washing mode reaching the total washing time.

[0430] The lighting colors of the lamps corresponding to preheating information, residual heat information, water amount information, water replenishment information, and washing progress information may differ.

[0431] The control unit (170) may include at least one processor (171) for controlling the operation of the humidifier (1) and at least one memory (172) for storing a program and data for controlling the operation of the humidifier (1).

[0432] At least one processor (171) may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of internal components of the humidifier (1), at least one memory for storing data in the form of a program, and one or more processor chips that perform the aforementioned operation using the data stored in at least one memory, or one or more processing cores.

[0433] At least one processor (171) can process various data and various signals using instructions, data, programs and / or software stored in memory (172).

[0434] At least one processor (171) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), MIC (Many Integrated Core), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), NPU (Neural Processing Unit), hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator.

[0435] The memory (172) can store information about the humidification time corresponding to the amount of water and the humidification level.

[0436] The memory (172) can also store information about the lighting color of the lamp corresponding to the humidification time.

[0437] The memory (172) can store information about the standard amount of water for water replenishment.

[0438] The memory (172) can store water quantity information corresponding to the amount of water detected by the weight sensor (150).

[0439] The memory (172) can store information about the default weight.

[0440] The weight detected by the weight sensor (150) may include the weight of water and the default weight.

[0441] The default weight may include the weight of the water tank assembly (300).

[0442] The default weight may include the sum of the weight of the first case (210) and the weight of the water tank assembly (300).

[0443] The memory (172) can store guidance information corresponding to the cleaning mode.

[0444] The memory (172) can store data required for various embodiments.

[0445] Depending on the purpose of data storage, the memory (172) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the humidifier (1) or in the form of a memory that can be attached to and detached from the humidifier (1). For example, data for operating the humidifier (1) may be stored in the memory embedded in the humidifier (1), and data for the expansion function of the humidifier (1) may be stored in the memory that can be attached to and detached from the humidifier (1).

[0446] Meanwhile, the memory embedded in the humidifier (1) can be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD).

[0447] In addition, the memory that can be attached to the humidifier (1) may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), but is not limited thereto.

[0448] The memory (172) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks.

[0449] At least one component may be added or removed in response to the performance of the components of the humidifier (1) illustrated in FIG. 14. Additionally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the relative positions of the components may be changed in response to the performance or structure of the humidifier (1).

[0450] Each component illustrated in FIG. 14 refers to a software and / or hardware component such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

[0451] FIG. 23 is a control flowchart of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0452] Based on receiving a command to perform a humidification mode from an input unit (111) (401), the humidifier recognizes weight information detected by a weight sensor (150) and recognizes the amount of water in the water tank based on the recognized weight information (402).

[0453] Recognizing the amount of water in the water tank may include recognizing the weight information of the water based on the recognized weight information, the weight information of the water tank assembly and the weight information of the first case, and recognizing the amount of water in the water tank based on the recognized weight information of the water.

[0454] The humidifier can output information corresponding to the amount of water recognized through at least one of the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) (404).

[0455] For example, the humidifier can display the amount of water recognized as a number through the display unit (112), recognize the size of the lighting area corresponding to the amount of water recognized, and control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the size of the recognized lighting area.

[0456] The humidifier can recognize a color corresponding to the amount of water and light up a lamp with the recognized color.

[0457] The humidifier recognizes the ratio of the recognized amount of water to the maximum amount of water, recognizes the size of the lighting area corresponding to the recognized ratio within the total lighting area, and can control the lamp so that the area corresponding to the size of the recognized lighting area is lit.

[0458] Information regarding the maximum amount of water may be pre-stored information.

[0459] The humidifier can identify whether the amount of water recognized is less than the amount of standard water (405).

[0460] The humidifier can output guidance information that instructs water replenishment based on the recognized amount of water being less than the standard amount of water through at least one of the display unit (112) and the lamp (130) (406).

[0461] For example, the humidifier may control the display unit (112) to display guidance information for water replenishment as text, and may include controlling the lamp to recognize a color corresponding to water replenishment and flash with the recognized color.

[0462] Controlling the lamp to flash with a recognized color may include controlling the lamp (130) to light up with a recognized color, and controlling the brightness of the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp changes at regular time intervals.

[0463] Controlling the lamp to flash with a recognized color may include repeatedly turning it on and off with the recognized color.

[0464] The humidifier can recognize whether to refill water based on weight information detected by the weight sensor (150).

[0465] The humidifier can recognize the state of water replenishment based on the increase in the amount of water as water replenishment proceeds (408).

[0466] When the humidifier is recognized as being in a state of water replenishment, it can recognize the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information detected by the weight sensor (150) and output information corresponding to the recognized amount of water through the lamp and display unit (409).

[0467] For example, the humidifier can control the display unit (112) to display information about the amount of water, and can control the display unit (112) to recognize the ratio of the recognized amount of water to the maximum amount of water and to display information about the ratio of the refilled water as a numerical value, and can recognize the size of the lamp lighting area based on the ratio of the refilled water and control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the size of the recognized lamp lighting area. At this time, the humidifier can control the lamp (130) so that the size of the lamp lighting area increases based on the increase in the amount of water as water refilling proceeds.

[0468] The humidifier recognizes whether the weight is increasing based on weight information detected by a weight sensor, recognizes that water replenishment is complete based on the detected weight information remaining constant for a preset time, and recognizes that water replenishment is continuously taking place based on the weight increasing.

[0469] The humidifier can recognize humidification time information based on the amount of water and the humidification level based on the completion of water replenishment (410) (411).

[0470] Information on the humidification time corresponding to the amount of water and the humidification level may be information stored in memory.

[0471] The humidifier can output information on the recognized humidification time through the lamp and display (412).

[0472] For example, the humidifier can control the display unit (112) to display the recognized humidification time information as a numerical value, recognize the color of the lamp corresponding to the recognized humidification time information, and control the lamp (130) so that the entire lighting area of ​​the lamp is lit with the recognized color.

[0473] The lighting color of the lamp may vary depending on the humidification time. Information regarding the lamp lighting color according to the humidification time may be stored in memory.

[0474] The humidifier can perform humidification by controlling the heating source (240) (413).

[0475] The humidifier can also control the output of the heating source based on the humidification level received at the input unit (111).

[0476] The humidifier can recognize temperature information of the water tank based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) while controlling the heating source (240), and can output preheating information through the lamp (130) and display unit (112) based on the recognized temperature information of the water tank (414).

[0477] For example, the humidifier can recognize the ratio of the recognized water tank temperature to the maximum water temperature and display the recognized ratio as a numerical value through the display unit (112), recognize the size of the lamp lighting area based on the recognized ratio, and control the lighting of the lamp (130) based on the size of the recognized lamp lighting area. The ratio of the recognized water tank temperature to the maximum temperature may include a percentage.

[0478] The humidifier can control the lamp (130) so that the size of the lamp's lighting area increases based on the increase in the water temperature as the humidification mode progresses.

[0479] When controlling the display of preheating information, the humidifier may also recognize the color of the lamp (130) corresponding to the water temperature information and control the lamp (130) so that the lamp (130) lights up with the recognized color of the lamp.

[0480] During the operation of the humidification mode, the humidifier identifies whether to replenish water based on weight information detected by a weight sensor, and can output through the lamp (130) and display unit (112) in response to the replenishment of water.

[0481] The humidifier can stop the operation of the heating source (416) based on receiving a command to end the humidification mode through the input unit (111) while the humidification mode is being performed (415).

[0482] After the heating source (240) stops, the humidifier can recognize the temperature information of the water tank based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160), and can output preheating information through the lamp (130) and display unit (112) based on the recognized temperature information of the water tank (417).

[0483] For example, the humidifier can display temperature information of the water tank as a numerical value through the display unit, and can also display safety information that may be generated by residual heat of the humidifier's water tank through the display unit.

[0484] As another example, the humidifier can control the lamp (130) to recognize a color corresponding to the residual heat of the water tank and to repeatedly turn on and off at preset time intervals with the recognized color.

[0485] As another example, the humidifier recognizes a color corresponding to the residual heat of the water tank and controls the lamp (130) to light up with the recognized color, and can control the brightness of the lamp so that the brightness of the lamp changes.

[0486] The humidifier can recognize the temperature of the water tank based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) and control the locking of the locking member based on whether the recognized temperature of the water tank exceeds a reference temperature (418). Here, the reference temperature may be a second reference temperature.

[0487] The humidifier can also control the locking of the locking member for a preset time after the heating source is stopped.

[0488] The humidifier can control the unlocking of the locking member based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160) during the locking control of the locking member (419), control the unlocking of the locking member based on the temperature of the water tank being below the reference temperature (420), and control the display unit to output guidance information for unlocking the locking member (421).

[0489] Explain another example of the control of locking members.

[0490] After the heating source is stopped, the humidifier identifies whether the temperature of the water tank (310) is below a first reference temperature based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor (160), and can automatically control the unlocking of the lock member (140) based on the identification that the temperature of the water tank (310) is below the first reference temperature.

[0491] The humidifier identifies whether the temperature of the water tank (310) exceeds a first reference temperature and is less than a second reference temperature, and if the temperature of the water tank (310) is identified as exceeding a first reference temperature and is less than a second reference temperature, it identifies whether an unlock command from the input unit (111) is received, and if an unlock command from the input unit (111) is received, it can control the unlocking of the lock member.

[0492] The humidifier controls the locking of the locking member (140) based on the fact that the temperature of the water tank (310) is above the second reference temperature, and can output guidance information and image guidance information regarding the inability to unlock the locking member through a display unit or through a speaker.

[0493] The humidifier can nullify the unlock command received through the input unit (111) if the temperature of the water tank is above the second reference temperature.

[0494] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0495] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0496] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. Main body; A lamp provided in the above main body; A display unit provided on the above main body; A water tank accommodated in the above main body; A weight sensor that detects the weight of the water stored in the above water tank; A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the water stored in the above water tank; and A humidifier comprising a control unit that controls the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on at least one of the detected weight of the water and the detected temperature of the water.

2. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a cover provided on the main body and opening and closing the opening of the receiving space of the main body in which the water tank is received. The above lamp is provided at a position corresponding to the edge of the above cover, and The above control unit controls at least one of the lighting, extinguishing, flashing, lighting color, brightness, and the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp of the humidifier.

3. In claim 1, the control unit is, A humidifier that recognizes information on the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information detected by the weight sensor, recognizes at least one of a water replenishment state and a water increase state based on the recognized amount of water information, and controls the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on at least one of the recognized water replenishment state and the water increase state.

4. In claim 1, the control unit is, A humidifier that recognizes information on the amount of water stored in the water tank based on weight information detected by the weight sensor, recognizes information on the humidification time based on the recognized amount of water, and controls the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on the recognized humidification time information.

5. In Paragraph 1, Input section; and It further includes a heating source for heating the water stored in the above water tank, A humidifier that controls the operation of a heating source based on receiving a command to perform a humidification mode through the input unit, recognizes temperature information of water stored in the water tank based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and controls the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on the recognized temperature information of the water.

6. In Clause 5, the control unit is, A humidifier that controls the operation of a heating source to stop based on receiving a command to terminate the humidification mode through the input unit, recognizes the temperature information of the water stored in the water tank based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and controls the output of at least one of the lamp and the display unit based on the recognized water temperature information.

7. In Paragraph 5, It further includes a locking member that restricts the inflow and outflow of the above water tank, and The above control unit controls the locking and unlocking of the lock member based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor.

8. In Paragraph 1, It further includes an input section, A humidifier that controls at least one output of the lamp and the display unit based on the recognition of progress information of the washing mode based on the input unit receiving a command to perform the washing mode.

9. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a sensor case made of an elastic material that supports the water tank housed in the main body, and The sensor case comprises a first elastic surface that accommodates the temperature sensor, a second elastic surface provided vertically from the edge of the first elastic surface, a third elastic surface provided extending horizontally from the edge of the second elastic surface, and an elastic frame provided extending vertically from the edge of the third elastic surface. At least one of the first portion where the first elastic surface and the second elastic surface meet, the second portion where the second elastic surface and the third elastic surface meet, and the third portion where the third elastic surface and the elastic frame meet includes a cutting portion. A humidifier in which the thickness of the first part, the second part, and the third part is thinner than the thickness of the first, second, and third elastic surfaces.

10. Control the operation of the heating source based on receiving a command to execute the humidification mode through the input unit, and Recognizing weight information detected by a weight sensor and temperature information detected by a temperature sensor, Based on weight information detected by the weight sensor, the amount of water stored in the water tank is recognized, and A control method for a humidifier that controls the lighting of the lamp and controls the output of guidance information of the display unit based on the above-mentioned water quantity information and the above-mentioned temperature information.

11. In Clause 10, controlling the above lamp is, A method for controlling a humidifier comprising controlling at least one of the following: turning on, turning off, flashing, lighting color, brightness, and the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp.

12. In Clause 10, controlling the lighting of the lamp based on the recognized amount of water information is, Based on the above-mentioned water quantity information, the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp is controlled, and Based on the above-mentioned water quantity information, humidification possible time information is recognized, and Control the lighting color of the lamp based on the above-mentioned recognized humidification possible time information, and Based on the above-mentioned water quantity information, recognize whether the amount of water in the water tank is less than the standard amount of water, and A control method for a humidifier comprising controlling the flashing of a lamp based on the recognition that the amount of water in the water tank is less than the amount of standard water.

13. In paragraph 10, controlling the lighting of the lamp based on the above-mentioned recognized temperature information is, During the execution of the above humidification mode, the temperature information of the water stored in the water tank is recognized based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and A method for controlling a humidifier, comprising controlling the size of the lighting area of ​​the lamp based on the above-mentioned water temperature information.

14. In paragraph 10, controlling the lighting of the lamp based on the above-mentioned recognized temperature information is, A control method for a humidifier that controls the operation of a heating source to stop based on receiving a command to terminate the humidification mode through the input unit, recognizes the temperature information of the water stored in the water tank based on the temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and controls the flashing of the lamp based on the recognized water temperature information.

15. In Paragraph 14, Based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, identify whether the temperature of the water tank is below a reference temperature, and Controlling the unlocking of a locking member connected to the water tank based on the fact that the temperature of the water tank is identified as being below a reference temperature, and A control method for a humidifier further comprising controlling the locking of a locking member connected to the water tank based on the identification that the temperature of the water tank exceeds a reference temperature.

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