Dryer and its operation method

Abstract

A dryer and its operation method for use in a 5G environment connected for the Internet of Things are disclosed. One embodiment of the dryer may include: a heating device; a rotating drum connected to the outlet of the heating device; a fan connected to the outlet of the rotating drum; a heat exchanger disposed in a flow path for a working fluid to flow, connected to the outlet of the fan; a compressor, the inlet of which is connected to the flow path connected to the outlet of the fan, and the outlet of the compressor connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger; and a regeneration device, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a dryer and its operation method, and more specifically, to a dryer and its operation method with an improved structure for heat transfer efficiency and performance. Background Technology

[0002] The content described in this section is only for background information on the embodiments and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] Dryers are used to dry laundry and other items awaiting drying. Depending on the method of obtaining heat to heat the items, dryers can be categorized as gas-based, electric-heater-based, or heat pump-based.

[0004] Gas-based dryers utilize the heat generated from burning combustible gases to heat the items to be dried. However, gas-based dryers suffer from the disadvantage of requiring external gas supply, resulting in larger equipment and more complex structures.

[0005] The electric heater method uses heat obtained by using an electric heater to heat the items to be dried. Electric heater dryers have the advantages of reducing dryer size and simplifying the device's structure.

[0006] However, electric heater-type dryers use electricity as an expensive energy source, thus having disadvantages in terms of cost and energy efficiency.

[0007] Heat pump dryers use heat obtained by moving heat from a low-temperature thermal reservoir to a high-temperature thermal reservoir through a compressor to heat the items to be dried.

[0008] Heat pumps can obtain heat using a compressor, and the compressor may use electricity to operate.

[0009] However, unlike electric heaters which generate heat by converting electricity into heat, heat pumps collect heat from a low-temperature reservoir to a high-temperature reservoir and obtain heat, thus having the advantage of lower power consumption than electric heaters.

[0010] The demand for dryers using electric heaters, which have the advantage of low power consumption, is constantly increasing, and related research and development are gradually expanding. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0012] One problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a dryer with an improved structure in terms of efficiency and performance, and a method for operating the same.

[0013] One problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a dryer and its operation method having a structure capable of suppressing the inflow of ambient temperature external air through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0014] One problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a dryer having a structure including a regeneration device equipped with a gas-liquid separator and a method for operating the same.

[0015] One problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a dryer having a structure including a regeneration device equipped with a preheating device and a method for operating the same.

[0016] Technical solutions to the problem

[0017] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a heating device; a rotating drum connected to the outlet of the heating device; a fan connected to the outlet of the rotating drum; a heat exchanger disposed in a flow path for the flow of working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan; a compressor, the inlet of which is connected to the flow path connected to the outlet of the fan, and the outlet of the compressor connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger; and a regeneration device, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger.

[0018] The regeneration device can be connected to a circulation path for the working fluid to flow, which includes a heating device, a rotating drum, a fan, and a heat exchanger.

[0019] The dryer of one embodiment of the present invention may further include a housing portion that internally houses a heat exchanger, a flow path connected to the outlet of a fan that can be connected to the housing portion, a flow path connected to the inlet of a heating device that can be connected to the housing portion, and a flow path connected to the inlet of a compressor that can be connected to the housing portion.

[0020] The regeneration device may include a gas-liquid separator, the gas outlet of which may be connected to a circulation path.

[0021] The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid that connects the heating device and the rotating drum.

[0022] The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator can be connected to a flow path that supplies the working fluid to the rotating drum and fan.

[0023] The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan.

[0024] The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator can be connected to a flow path for the working fluid to flow through, which is connected to the inlet of the heating device.

[0025] The regeneration device may also include a steamtrap connected to the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator.

[0026] The regeneration device may also include a pressure reducing device, which is disposed in at least one of a flow path connecting the outlet of the heat exchanger and the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, and a flow path connecting the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator and a circulation flow path.

[0027] The regeneration device may further include: a bypass flow path, the two ends of which are connected to the two ends of the pressure reducing device and the two ends of the steam trap; and a bypass valve disposed in the bypass flow path.

[0028] The regeneration device may include: a preheating device, a flow path configured to be connected to the outlet of a heat exchanger; and an external air inflow path, from which external air flows in, the outlet of which is connected to a circulation path, the external air inflow path being configured to pass through the preheating device.

[0029] The regeneration device may also include a control valve configured on the inlet side of the external air inflow path.

[0030] The external air inflow path can be connected to at least one of the following: a flow path for supplying working fluid connecting the heating device and the rotating drum; a flow path for supplying working fluid connecting the rotating drum and the fan; a flow path for supplying working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan; and a flow path for supplying working fluid connected to the inlet of the heating device.

[0031] A method for operating a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a step of operating a fan, a step of operating a compressor, a step of operating a heating device, and a step of interrupting the operation of the heating device after a set time.

[0032] The regeneration device may include: a gas-liquid separator, the gas outlet of which is connected to a circulation path; a steam trap connected to the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator; a pressure reducing device disposed on at least one of a flow path connecting the outlet of a heat exchanger and the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, a flow path connecting the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator and the circulation path, and a flow path equipped with a steam trap; a bypass flow path, both ends of which are connected to both ends of the pressure reducing device and both ends of the steam trap; and a bypass valve disposed on the bypass flow path.

[0033] The regeneration device may include: a preheating device configured in a flow path connected to the outlet of a heat exchanger; an external air inflow path, in which external air flows in from the inlet of the external air inflow path, the outlet of the external air inflow path being connected to a circulation path, the external air inflow path being configured to pass through the preheating device; and a control valve configured on the inlet side of the external air inflow path.

[0034] Invention Effects

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the working fluid flowing through the non-circulating flow path is allowed to flow into the circulating flow path through the regeneration flow path, or the heated external air is allowed to flow into the circulating flow path through the regeneration flow path, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of external air through the gaps in the circulating flow path.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by allowing the heated working fluid of the non-circulating flow path or the heated external air to flow into the circulating flow path, even when the compressor is running, the generation of negative pressure in the circulating flow path is suppressed, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of ambient temperature external air through the gaps in the circulating flow path caused by the generation of negative pressure.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by suppressing the inflow of ambient temperature outside air into the circulation path, the waste of heat used to heat such outside air is avoided, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by using a gas-liquid separator, only vapor that does not require latent heat of vaporization flows into the circulation path, thereby maintaining the pressure of the circulation path at a level similar to atmospheric pressure, which effectively suppresses the inflow of external air through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the invention, since only steam flows into the circulation path, there is no need to apply additional heat equal to the latent heat of vaporization of the condensate to the working fluid of the circulation path, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a steam trap connected to the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator, only condensate is discharged from the gas-liquid separator to the storage section, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by allowing external air heated by the preheating device to flow into the circulation path, the heated external air does not cause condensation of the working fluid in the circulation path, thus improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the external air heated to a high temperature flows into the circulation path, the pressure of the circulation path is kept similar to atmospheric pressure, thereby effectively preventing the inflow of normal temperature external air through the gaps in the circulation path and the generation of condensate in the circulation path.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the external air is heated by a preheating device that uses the working fluid discharged from the heat exchanger as a high-temperature heat source, thus effectively utilizing the waste heat of the working fluid discharged from the heat exchanger, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the external appearance of a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a dryer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Explanation of reference numerals for the main parts of the accompanying drawings

[0051] 10: User Interface 100: Rotary Turbine

[0052] 200: Fan; 300: Heat exchanger

[0053] 400: Compressor; 500: Heating device

[0054] 600: Reception section; 700: Regeneration device

[0055] 710: Gas-liquid separator; 720: Steam trap

[0056] 730: Pressure reducing device; 740: Bypass flow path

[0057] 750: Bypass valve; 760: Preheating device

[0058] 770: External air inflow path; 780: Control valve

[0059] 800: Storage Department; 900: Control Department Detailed Implementation

[0060] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in order to clarify the main points of the invention, descriptions of known functions or structures will be omitted.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the external appearance of a dryer according to one embodiment. For example, the dryer of this embodiment can be used to dry laundry that has not been dried after washing. Of course, it can also be used to dry clothes that have become wet, regardless of washing.

[0062] The items to be dried can be contained in the tumbler 100 of the dryer. (See reference) Figure 1 For example, the rotating drum 100 can be configured as a cylinder and can be configured to rotate as needed.

[0063] A user interface 10 may be provided in the dryer. The user interface 10 is electrically connected to the control unit 900 described below, and the user can control the operation of the dryer through the user interface 10.

[0064] For example, the user interface 10 may include a display, capacitive touch buttons, physical buttons, knobs, a speaker for the dryer to emit voice commands, a microphone for the user to input commands via voice, etc.

[0065] Therefore, users can obtain the necessary operating information from the dryer via text or voice. Additionally, users can operate the dryer by voice input or by manually operating buttons and knobs.

[0066] The dryer also includes a communication unit (transceiver) connected to the control unit 900, through which the control unit 900 can communicate with servers, user terminals, and other external devices.

[0067] The communication unit may be configured to include at least one of a mobile communication module and a wireless internet module. In addition, the communication unit may also include a short-range communication module.

[0068] The mobile communication module transmits / receives radio signals with at least one of the following on a mobile communication network constructed according to the technical standards or communication methods used for mobile communication (e.g., GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), CDMA (Code Division Multi Access), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), WCDMA (Wideband CDMA), HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), 5G mobile communication, etc.).

[0069] A wireless internet module is a module used to connect to the wireless internet, and it can be installed in a dryer. The wireless internet module is configured to transmit / receive wireless signals in a communication network based on wireless internet technology.

[0070] The dryer can send and receive data with servers and various communicable terminals via 5G networks. In particular, the dryer can use at least one of the following services on the 5G network: Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), URLLC (Ultra-reliable and low latency communications), and mMTC (Massive Machine-type communications) to communicate with servers and terminals.

[0071] eMBB (Enhanced Mobile Broadband) is a mobile broadband service that provides multimedia content, wireless data access, and more. Additionally, eMBB can provide more advanced mobile services such as hotspots and broadband coverage to accommodate explosive growth in mobile traffic. Hotspots can accommodate large volumes of traffic in areas with low user mobility and high density. Broadband coverage ensures a broad and stable wireless environment and user mobility.

[0072] URLLC (Ultra-reliable and low latency communications) services define more stringent requirements than existing LTE in terms of data transmission reliability and latency. 5G services used in industrial settings such as production process automation, telemedicine, remote surgery, transportation, and security correspond to this.

[0073] mMTC (Massive Machine-type communications) is a latency-insensitive service that requires relatively small amounts of data transmission. Terminals with far more sensors than a typical mobile phone can simultaneously connect to a wireless access network via mMTC. In this case, the terminal's communication module should be inexpensive and require improved power efficiency and power-saving technologies to enable it to operate for many years without battery replacement or recharging.

[0074] In order to apply heat to the items to be dried contained in the rotating drum 100, the dryer of the embodiment can be configured as a thermodynamic cycle.

[0075] The working fluid used to achieve the thermodynamic circulation of the dryer can be a mixture of air and water in a gaseous state, i.e., steam. In this case, the ratio of air to steam in the working fluid can be changed simultaneously among the various components of the circulating dryer.

[0076] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to one embodiment.

[0077] The dryer may be equipped with a flow path for the flow of working fluid. This flow path may connect to various components of the dryer as described below. For example, the flow path may be configured as piping, hoses, pipes, or combinations thereof.

[0078] In a dryer, the flow path of the working fluid can be configured as a circulating flow path, a non-circulating flow path, or a regeneration line.

[0079] The circulation path is a flow path that connects the heating device 500, the rotating drum 100, the fan 200, and the heat exchanger 300 to each other, allowing the working fluid to circulate along the circulation path. The fan 200 can blow the working fluid, causing it to flow along the circulation path.

[0080] The non-circulating flow path can branch off from the circulating flow path before the heat exchanger 300 and connect to the compressor 400, and can also connect to the compressor 400 and the heat exchanger 300. The working fluid flowing through the non-circulating flow path can flow into the compressor 400 to be compressed, and then pass through the heat exchanger 300.

[0081] A portion of the working fluid in the circulating flow path can flow into a non-circulating flow path branching off from the circulating flow path. Due to the pressurization in the compressor 400, the temperature of the working fluid flowing into the non-circulating flow path can be increased and thus heated.

[0082] The heated working fluid discharged from the compressor 400 in the non-circulating flow path can flow into the heat exchanger 300 and exchange heat with the relatively low-temperature working fluid in the circulating flow path, and then be discharged from the heat exchanger 300.

[0083] The regeneration flow path is the flow path of the working fluid connecting the outlet of the heat exchanger 300 and the circulation flow path. A regeneration device 700 may be configured on the regeneration flow path.

[0084] In the embodiments, the regeneration flow path can be understood as including a flow path connecting the outlet of the heat exchanger 300 and the inlet of the regeneration device 700, and a flow path connecting the outlet of the regeneration device 700 and the circulation flow path.

[0085] As described above, the working fluid in the circulating flow path is heated by the heat exchanger 300, flows into the rotating drum 100, and heats the material to be dried contained in the rotating drum 100, thereby drying the material to be dried.

[0086] After the dryer starts running, in order to carry out the drying operation quickly and effectively, the items to be dried need to be heated rapidly in the initial stage of the drying operation.

[0087] This initial heating involves heating the working fluid in the circulating flow path. For initial heating, the heating device 500 can be installed in the circulating flow path connected to the inlet of the rotating drum 100.

[0088] If the material to be dried in the rotating drum 100 is continuously heated, and the water contained in the material continues to evaporate so that the working fluids in the circulating and non-circulating flow paths contain sufficient steam, and the heat exchange in the heat exchanger 300 proceeds smoothly, then the initial heating can be terminated.

[0089] Considering the specific design of the dryer, for example, the initial heating time can be set, and the initial heating can be stopped after the set time has elapsed.

[0090] As another embodiment, the humidity of the working fluid can be measured by a humidity sensor configured at an appropriate location in the circulating flow path, non-circulating flow path, or various components of the working fluid. If the humidity falls within a set range, the initial heating can be terminated.

[0091] The heating device 500 heats the working fluid flowing through the circulation path. The heated working fluid flows into the rotating drum 100. The material to be dried in the rotating drum 100 is heated by the working fluid, and the water contained therein can evaporate and be vaporized.

[0092] If the compressor 400 is operated for drying, the working fluid in the circulating flow path can be continuously discharged through the non-circulating flow path. Therefore, the mass of the working fluid in the circulating flow path can be continuously reduced, and the circulating flow path may at least temporarily cease to experience a negative pressure state below the external pressure, i.e., atmospheric pressure.

[0093] If the circulation path is under negative pressure, external air can flow into the circulation path through gaps in the piping, pipes, etc. that make up the circulation path.

[0094] External air flowing into the circulation path can be used as the working fluid. However, the external air is at room temperature, so its temperature may be lower than that of the heated working fluid flowing through the circulation path.

[0095] The working fluid in a high-temperature circulating flow path can be cooled by the incoming outside air, and the water contained therein can be cooled down to below the dew point temperature and condensed into liquid.

[0096] That is, water may condense in the circulation path due to external air. Heating the condensed water in the circulation path to evaporate it may require a large amount of latent heat of vaporization.

[0097] Therefore, while maintaining the same amount of work (i.e., power) input to the compressor 400 and the heating device 500, the amount of steam in the circulating flow path may be reduced compared to the case where there is no water condensation in the circulating flow path, thereby potentially reducing the efficiency of the dryer.

[0098] If the amount of steam is increased to achieve smooth drying operation, the power consumption of compressor 400 and heating device 500 will increase, which will also lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the dryer.

[0099] On the other hand, the dryer's efficiency will also be reduced because heat is required to heat the ambient outside air that flows in through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0100] Therefore, it is necessary to suppress the inflow of ambient temperature outside air into the circulation path. In an embodiment, the working fluid flowing through the non-circulation path is allowed to flow into the circulation path through the regeneration path, or heated outside air is allowed to flow into the circulation path through the regeneration path, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of outside gas through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0101] That is, by allowing the heated working fluid from the non-circulating flow path or the heated external air to flow into the circulating flow path, even when the compressor 400 is running, negative pressure is suppressed in the circulating flow path, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of ambient temperature external air through the gaps in the circulating flow path caused by negative pressure.

[0102] In this embodiment, by suppressing the inflow of ambient temperature outside air into the circulation path, the waste of heat used to heat such outside air is avoided, thus improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0103] The following will refer to Figure 2 The structure of the dryer in the embodiment is described in detail.

[0104] Reference Figure 2 The dryer in the embodiment may include a heating device 500, a rotating drum 100, a fan 200, a heat exchanger 300, and a compressor 400.

[0105] The rotating drum 100 can be connected to the outlet of the heating device 500. The structure and function of the rotating drum 100 are as described above.

[0106] The heating device 500 can be configured between the rotating drum 100 and the heat exchanger 300 in the circulation path. For example, the heating device 500 can be an electric heater, but is not limited to this.

[0107] As described above, for example, the heating device 500 can be used to initially heat the working fluid flowing through the circulation path. Therefore, operation can be interrupted when the initial heating is completed. In addition, even after the initial heating is completed, the heating device 500 can be restarted at any time to heat the working fluid in the circulation path.

[0108] The fan 200 can be configured to connect to the outlet of the rotating drum 100. The fan 200 and the rotating drum 100 can be connected to each other through a circulation path for the working fluid. The fan 200 can blow the working fluid flowing in from the rotating drum 100, causing the working fluid to circulate in the circulation path.

[0109] The heat exchanger 300 can be configured in the flow path of the working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan 200. That is, the heat exchanger 300 can be configured in the circulation path of the working fluid connecting the fan 200 and the drum 100.

[0110] Additionally, the heat exchanger 300 can be configured such that a non-circulating flow path of the working fluid connected to the outlet of the compressor 400 passes through it.

[0111] Due to this structure, heat exchange can occur between the working fluid in the relatively low-temperature circulating flow path and the working fluid in the non-circulating flow path that is compressed by the compressor 400 and has a relatively high temperature in the heat exchanger 300.

[0112] On the other hand, during the initial heating, the working fluid in the non-circulating flow path can be further heated by the heating device 500, thereby making the heat exchange in the heat exchanger 300 more active.

[0113] The working fluid in the circulating flow path, which is heated by the heat exchanger 300, can flow back into the rotating drum 100 to heat and dry the material to be dried in the rotating drum 100.

[0114] The dryer of the embodiment may also include a housing 600 that internally houses the heat exchanger 300. For example, the housing 600 may be configured as a pipe and may form part of the circulation path.

[0115] The receiving portion 600 can be formed with a large cross-sectional area, thereby increasing the contact area between the working fluid in the circulating flow path and the surface of the heat exchanger 300, so as to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the working fluid in the circulating flow path and the working fluid in the non-circulating flow path.

[0116] However, it is appropriate to select the cross-sectional area of ​​the housing 600 by taking into account the overall size of the dryer, the size of the space provided by the housing 600, and the size of the heat exchanger 300.

[0117] like Figure 2 As shown, the flow path connected to the outlet of the fan 200 can be connected to the receiving part 600, the flow path connected to the inlet of the drum 100 can be connected to the receiving part 600, and the flow path connected to the inlet of the compressor 400 can be connected to the receiving part 600.

[0118] That is, the receiving portion 600 can be connected to both the circulating flow path and the non-circulating flow path of the working fluid. For example, the heat exchanger 300 includes an open type where the working fluids in the circulating flow path and the non-circulating flow path mix with each other, and a closed type where the individual working fluids are separated from each other. For example, the heat exchanger 300 of the embodiment can be configured as a closed type.

[0119] When using a closed heat exchanger 300, the non-circulating flow path of the working fluid can be directly connected to the heat exchanger 300 disposed in the containment 600, and the working fluid of the non-circulating flow path is separated from the working fluid of the circulating flow path in the containment 600.

[0120] The inlet of compressor 400 can be connected to a flow path, which is connected to the outlet of fan 200, and the outlet of compressor 400 can be connected to the inlet of heat exchanger 300.

[0121] The compressor 400 is connected to the non-circulating flow path of the working fluid, allowing a portion of the working fluid flowing through the circulating flow path to flow into the non-circulating flow path. Due to the pressurization in the compressor 400, the temperature of the working fluid flowing into the non-circulating flow path can be increased, allowing it to flow into the heat exchanger 300.

[0122] There are various types of compressors 400, such as reciprocating, rotary, screw, scroll, centrifugal, and axial types. The appropriate compressor 400 can be selected by considering its size and specific characteristics.

[0123] The dryer in the embodiment may also include a storage unit 800 and a control unit 900.

[0124] The storage unit 800 can be connected to the outlet of the regeneration device 700. For example, the storage unit 800 can be connected to the outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710, steam trap 720 or preheating device 760 provided in the regeneration device 700 to store water passing through the regeneration device 700.

[0125] The working fluid flowing into the storage unit 800 can, while passing through the heat exchanger 300 or the regeneration device 700, have at least a portion of its vapor condensed to form liquid water, i.e., condensate. Therefore, the storage unit 800 can store the incoming condensate.

[0126] The control unit 900 can be electrically connected to the heating device 500, the fan 200, the compressor 400, and the control valve 780. Additionally, the control unit 900 can be electrically connected to other electrically controlled components of the dryer.

[0127] The control unit 900 can control the various components of the dryer, and therefore can control the overall operation of the dryer in this embodiment. For example, the control unit 900 can control the supply of power to the heating device 500 or the operation of the fan 200, control the operation of the compressor 400, or control the opening and closing of the control valve 780.

[0128] As described above, the control unit 900 can be connected to the user interface 10 and the communication unit to receive user input instructions, send necessary notifications to the user, or communicate with external devices such as servers.

[0129] The inlet of the regeneration device 700 can be connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 300. The regeneration device 700 can be connected to the circulation path of the working fluid connecting the heating device 500, the rotating drum 100, the fan 200, and the heat exchanger 300.

[0130] For example, such as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the regeneration device 700 can be configured to include a gas-liquid separator 710. As another embodiment, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the regeneration device 700 can be configured to include a preheating device 760.

[0131] The following is a reference, firstly Figures 2 to 4 The structure of the regeneration device 700, including the gas-liquid separator 710, is described.

[0132] Reference Figure 2 The regeneration device 700 may include a gas-liquid separator 710. The inlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 may be connected to the heat exchanger 300. Additionally, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 may be connected to the circulation path. Furthermore, the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 may be connected to the storage unit 800.

[0133] In the gas-liquid separator 710, the incoming working fluid can be separated into condensate as a liquid and vapor as a gas. The condensate separated by the gas-liquid separator 710 can flow into the storage section 800, and the vapor separated by the gas-liquid separator 710 can flow into the circulation path.

[0134] The working fluid flowing from the gas-liquid separator 710 into the circulation path can circulate within the circulation path and be used to dry the items to be dried in the rotating drum 100. Therefore, if condensate flows into the circulation path, a significant amount of latent heat of vaporization is required to evaporate the condensate, which is not as beneficial as allowing ambient temperature outside air to flow into the circulation path to heat the outside air.

[0135] Therefore, in this embodiment, by using the gas-liquid separator 710, only vapor that does not require latent heat of vaporization flows into the circulation path, thereby keeping the pressure of the circulation path similar to atmospheric pressure, which effectively suppresses the inflow of external air through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0136] In addition, since only steam flows into the circulation path, there is no need to apply additional heat equal to the latent heat of vaporization of the condensate to the working fluid in the circulation path, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0137] The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid connecting the heating device 500 and the rotating drum 100. Alternatively, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid connecting the rotating drum 100 and the fan 200.

[0138] Alternatively, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan 200. Alternatively, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 can be connected to the flow path of the working fluid connected to the inlet of the heating device 500.

[0139] That is, such as Figure 2 As shown, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 can be configured with at least one of the four parts of the circulation path divided by the heating device 500, the rotating drum 100, the fan 200 and the heat exchanger 300.

[0140] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, a valve is provided in each of the four regeneration flow paths connected to the circulation flow path to control the flow of working fluid. By opening and closing each valve, the working fluid discharged from the gas-liquid separator 710 can flow into all or part of the four flow paths of the circulation flow path.

[0141] As an example, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 may also be connected to only a portion of the four partial flow paths of the circulation path.

[0142] Due to this structure, the steam discharged from the gas-liquid separator 710 flows into all or part of the four sections of the circulation path, keeping the pressure of the circulation path similar to atmospheric pressure, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of external air through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0143] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to another embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 3 As shown, the regeneration device 700 having the gas-liquid separator 710 may further include a steam trap 720 connected to the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710.

[0144] The steam trap 720 can be configured on the flow path connecting the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 and the storage section 800.

[0145] In the gas-liquid separator 710, steam and condensate may not be completely separated, and due to reasons such as temporary pressure drop inside the flow path, a portion of the condensate discharged from the gas-liquid separator 710 may be vaporized and generate steam again.

[0146] For this reason, the working fluid discharged from the gas-liquid separator 710 may contain not only condensate but also steam. Therefore, by configuring a steam trap 720 in the flow path connected to the condensate outlet, steam discharge into the storage section 800 can be suppressed.

[0147] Condensate flowing into the working fluid of the steam trap 720 flows into the storage section 800 through the steam trap 720, while steam cannot pass through the steam trap 720. The steam that cannot pass through the steam trap 720 can flow into the circulation path through the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710.

[0148] In this embodiment, by providing a steam trap 720 connected to the condensate outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710, only condensate is discharged from the gas-liquid separator 710 to the storage section 800, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0149] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to yet another embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The regeneration device 700, which includes the gas-liquid separator 710, may also include a pressure reducing device 730.

[0150] For example, the regeneration device 700 may also include a pressure reducing device 730, which is disposed in at least one of a flow path connecting the outlet of the heat exchanger 300 and the inlet of the gas-liquid separator 710, and a flow path connecting the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 and the circulation flow path.

[0151] The non-circulating working fluid flowing into the gas-liquid separator 710 via the heat exchanger 300 is compressed by the compressor 400, thus operating at a higher temperature and pressure compared to the working fluid in the circulating flow path. The working fluid in the circulating flow path is at or near atmospheric pressure.

[0152] Therefore, the steam flowing into the circulation path through the regeneration path needs to be depressurized and cooled to have the same or similar pressure and temperature as the working fluid in the circulation path.

[0153] In an embodiment, at least one pressure reducing device 730 is provided in a portion of the flow path before or after the gas-liquid separator 710 in the regeneration flow path, thereby reducing the temperature and pressure of the steam discharged through the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator 710 and flowing into the circulation flow path to a level corresponding to the circulation flow path.

[0154] For example, the pressure reducing device 730 can be configured as an expansion valve, a throttling device, a capillary device, etc. However, it is not limited to these; various devices capable of reducing pressure and cooling the working fluid can be installed.

[0155] The regeneration device 700 may further include a bypass flow path 740 and a bypass valve 750. The two ends of the bypass flow path 740 may be connected to the two ends of the pressure reducing device 730 and the two ends of the steam trap 720. The bypass valve 750 may be configured within the bypass flow path 740.

[0156] In emergency situations such as a malfunction of the pressure reducing device 730 or the steam trap 720, or abnormal operation, it is necessary to allow the working fluid to flow around them.

[0157] In this emergency situation, the bypass valve 750 can be opened to allow the working fluid to bypass the pressure reducing device 730 or the steam trap 720 through the bypass flow path 740.

[0158] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a dryer according to yet another embodiment. Figures 2 to 4 Compared to the dryer shown, Figure 5 The dryer shown is equipped with a regeneration device 700, which replaces the gas-liquid separator 710 and includes a preheating device 760.

[0159] To illustrate clearly, with Figures 2 to 4 Compared to the embodiments shown, in Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the names of the flow paths are defined as follows.

[0160] Circulation path and Figures 2 to 4 The circulating flow path is the same in the illustrated embodiment. The non-circulating flow path is a flow path that branches off from the circulating flow path and connects to the compressor 400, heat exchanger 300, preheating device 760, and storage unit 800. The external air inflow flow path 770 is a flow path that connects to the control valve 780 and the preheating device 760, allowing external air to flow in, and is connected to the circulating flow path.

[0161] Reference Figure 5The dryer may include a preheating device 760 and an external air inflow path 770. The preheating device 760 may be configured in a flow path connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 300. The external air inflow path 770 may be configured to allow external air to flow in from its inlet and its outlet to be connected to the circulation path, passing through the preheating device 760.

[0162] The working fluid discharged from the heat exchanger 300 can exchange heat with the outside air in the preheating device 760 and then be discharged to the storage section 800.

[0163] An external air inlet path 770 may be configured to pass through the heat exchanger 300 and be connected to the circulation path. External air may flow into the external air inlet path 770 and may be heated while passing through the heat exchanger 300 before flowing into the circulation path.

[0164] In this embodiment, by allowing the external air heated by the preheating device 760 to flow into the circulation path, the heated external air does not cause condensation of the working fluid in the circulation path, thus improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0165] In addition, since the outside air heated to a high temperature flows into the circulation path, the pressure of the circulation path is kept similar to atmospheric pressure, which can effectively prevent the outside air at room temperature from flowing in through the gaps in the circulation path and generating condensation in the circulation path.

[0166] The regeneration device 700 may also include a control valve 780 disposed on the inlet side of the external air inflow path 770. The control valve 780 may be electrically connected to the control unit 900, and the control unit 900 may control the opening and closing of the control valve 780.

[0167] The control unit 900 can open the control valve 780 to allow outside air to flow into the outside air inlet path 770 for heating in the preheating device 760 and then into the circulation path. Alternatively, the control unit 900 can close the control valve 780 to prevent outside air from flowing into the outside air inlet path 770, thereby interrupting the operation of the regeneration device 700.

[0168] For example, the preheating device 760 has an open type where the working fluid and external air in the non-circulating flow path 770 mix with each other, and a closed type where the working fluid and external air are separated from each other. For example, the preheating device 760 of the embodiment can be configured as a closed type.

[0169] The external air inflow path 770 can be connected to at least one of the following: the working fluid flow path connecting the heating device 500 and the rotating drum 100, the working fluid flow path connecting the rotating drum 100 and the fan 200, the working fluid flow path connected to the outlet of the fan 200, and the working fluid flow path connected to the inlet of the heating device 500.

[0170] That is, such as Figure 5 As shown, the external air inflow path 770 may be configured with at least one of the four parts of the circulation path divided by the heating device 500, the rotating drum 100, the fan 200 and the heat exchanger 300.

[0171] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, each external air inflow path 770 connected to the four sections of the circulation path is provided with a valve to control the flow of the working fluid. By opening and closing each valve, external air heated by the preheating device 760 can flow into all or part of the four sections of the circulation path.

[0172] As another embodiment, the external air inflow path 770 may also be connected to only a portion of the four partial paths of the circulation path.

[0173] Due to this structure, heated external air flows into all or part of the four sections of the circulation path, keeping the pressure in the circulation path similar to atmospheric pressure. This effectively prevents ambient temperature external air from flowing in through the gaps in the circulation path.

[0174] In this embodiment, the outside air is heated by a preheating device 760, which uses the working fluid discharged from the heat exchanger 300 as a high-temperature heat source. This effectively utilizes the waste heat of the working fluid discharged from the heat exchanger 300, thereby improving the efficiency of the dryer.

[0175] On the other hand, by configuring the aforementioned steam trap 720 (see reference) in the flow path connecting the preheater and the storage section 800... Figure 3 and Figure 4 This can also improve the efficiency of the dryer.

[0176] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a dryer according to an embodiment. The method for operating a dryer according to this embodiment can be used with the dryer described above. For example, the operation of the dryer can be performed by the control unit 900 described above.

[0177] The dryer operation method of the embodiment may involve the initial heating of the dryer. Hereinafter, the start and completion of the initial heating of the dryer will be described in detail.

[0178] When the drum 100 contains items to be dried, the control unit 900 can operate the fan 200 (S110).

[0179] As the fan 200 operates, the working fluid can flow in the circulation path of the dryer. In step S110, the working fluid in the circulation path is in a state where it has not yet been heated.

[0180] The control unit 900 can operate the compressor 400 (S120). As the compressor 400 operates, the working fluid can flow into the compressor 400 through a non-circulating flow path branching from the circulating flow path and be compressed.

[0181] For example, a non-circulating flow path can branch off from the flow section, allowing a portion of the working fluid in the flow section to flow into the compressor 400. The working fluid in the non-circulating flow path can be compressed by the compressor 400 while its temperature increases, and can then flow into the heat exchanger 300.

[0182] With the compressor 400 running, heat exchange can occur in the regeneration unit 700. However, in the case of the regeneration unit 700 including the preheating unit 760, the control unit 900 allows outside air to flow into the preheating unit 760 by opening the control valve 780, thereby allowing heat exchange to occur in the preheating unit 760.

[0183] To ensure rapid and efficient drying, the material to be dried needs to be rapidly heated at the initial stage of the drying process. If the compressor 400 is running, the working fluid in the non-circulating flow path is heated, while the working fluid in the circulating flow path can be heated through heat exchange in the heat exchanger 300.

[0184] However, in order to heat the items to be dried more quickly and cause the water in the items to evaporate quickly, in this embodiment, the working fluid in the circulating flow path can be further heated by using a heating device 500.

[0185] The control unit 900 can operate the heating device 500 (S130). For example, if the heating device 500 is configured as an electric heater, the control unit 900 can apply electricity to the heating device 500 to operate it. The working fluid in the circulating flow path can be rapidly heated by the heating device 500.

[0186] The working fluid in the heated circulating flow path can flow into the rotating drum 100 to heat the material to be dried contained in the rotating drum 100, so as to evaporate the water contained in the material to be dried.

[0187] After a set time has elapsed, the control unit 900 can interrupt the operation of the heating device 500 (S140). By interrupting the operation of the heating device 500, the initial heating of the working fluid in the circulating flow path can be terminated.

[0188] As described above, if the material to be dried in the rotating drum 100 is continuously heated, the water contained in the material to be dried continues to evaporate, so that the working fluids in the circulating and non-circulating flow paths contain sufficient steam, and the heat exchange in the heat exchanger 300 proceeds smoothly, then the initial heating can be terminated.

[0189] Considering the specific design of the dryer, for example, the initial heating time can be set, and the initial heating can be stopped after the set time has elapsed.

[0190] As another embodiment, the humidity of the working fluid can be measured by a humidity sensor configured at an appropriate location in the circulating flow path, non-circulating flow path, regeneration flow path, external air inflow flow path 770, or any of the various components. If the humidity falls within a set range, the initial heating can be terminated.

[0191] On the other hand, even after the initial heating by the heating device 500 has ended, the regeneration device 700 can continue to operate, thereby effectively preventing ambient temperature outside air from flowing into the circulation path.

[0192] The specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above. However, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, these modifications or variations should not be construed as independent of the technical concept or viewpoint of the present invention, and the modified embodiments should fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

[0193] Industrial applicability

[0194] According to the dryer and its operating method of the present invention, the working fluid flowing through the non-circulating flow path is drawn into the circulating flow path through the regeneration flow path, or the heated external air is drawn into the circulating flow path through the regeneration flow path, thereby effectively suppressing the inflow of external air through the gaps in the circulating flow path. In this respect, it surpasses the limitations of the prior art. In addition to the use of related technologies, the device applying the related technologies also has sufficient commercial or marketing potential and has reached the level of being clearly implemented in reality. Therefore, the present invention is an invention with industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A dryer, in, include: Heating device; The rotating drum is connected to the outlet of the heating device; A fan is connected to the outlet of the rotating drum; A heat exchanger is configured in a flow path for the working fluid to flow, connected to the outlet of the fan; A compressor, the inlet of which is connected to a flow path connected to the outlet of the fan, and the outlet of which is connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger; and A regeneration device is connected to a circulation path for the flow of working fluid, which connects the heating device, the rotating drum, the fan, and the heat exchanger, and its inlet is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger. The regeneration device includes: A gas-liquid separator, wherein the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the circulating flow path; A pressure reducing device is provided in at least one of a flow path connecting the outlet of the heat exchanger and the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, and a flow path connecting the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator and the circulation flow path. A bypass flow path, the two ends of which are connected to the two ends of the pressure reducing device and the two ends of the steam trap; and A bypass valve is configured in the bypass flow path.

2. The dryer according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a housing that internally accommodates the heat exchanger. The flow path connected to the outlet of the fan is connected to the receiving portion. The flow path connected to the inlet of the heating device is connected to the receiving portion. The flow path connected to the inlet of the compressor is connected to the housing.

3. The dryer according to claim 1, wherein, The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separator is connected to a flow path that supplies working fluid to the heating device and the rotating drum.

4. The dryer according to claim 1, wherein, The regeneration device includes: A preheating device is configured in a flow path connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger; and An external air inflow path is provided, in which external air flows in from the inlet of the external air inflow path and the outlet of the external air inflow path is connected to the circulation path. The external air inflow path is configured to pass through the preheating device.

5. The dryer according to claim 4, wherein, The external air inflow path is connected to at least one of the following: a flow path for supplying working fluid connecting the heating device and the rotating drum; a flow path for supplying working fluid connecting the rotating drum and the fan; a flow path for supplying working fluid connected to the outlet of the fan; and a flow path for supplying working fluid connected to the inlet of the heating device.

6. A method of operating a dryer used in any one of claims 1 to 5. in, include: The steps to make the fan run; The steps to operate the compressor; The steps of operating the heating device; and The step of stopping the operation of the heating device after a set time has elapsed.

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