Clothes processing device

Abstract

A clothing processing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for driving the drum; a drying unit for drying the laundry by heating the drum; and a memory for storing a control temperature table recording a control temperature based on a drying time elapsed for the laundry, wherein the drying unit can operate based on a control temperature table that has been moved at least once in the stored control temperature table.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothes processing device. Background Art

[0002] The laundry treatment device may include a washing device for washing laundry, a drying machine for drying laundry or wet laundry, a device for caring for laundry, etc. The washing device may be a washing machine including a drying function.

[0003] For example, a washing machine includes an outer tub (external tank) for storing washing water and a drum (inner tank) rotatably disposed within the outer tub. The drum contains laundry (clothes), which is washed by detergent and washing water as the drum rotates. A dryer rotates the drum and heats the laundry inside the drum to dry it.

[0004] Generally, high-temperature hot air can be supplied to the inside of the drum and heated to evaporate moisture to perform drying. There are exhaust-type dryers that exhaust wet air to the outside of the washing machine and circulation-type dryers that condense moisture in wet air and resupply it to the drum.

[0005] On the other hand, the laundry processing device is also equipped with a heater. This heater operates within the outer tub while submerged in water, and a method for directly heating the water is widely used. This type of heater must always operate submerged in water for safety reasons. Therefore, it can be used to heat the water in the outer tub. However, when there is no water in the outer tub, it is not suitable for heating the air in the drum or heating wet laundry before dehydration. In recent years, laundry processing devices that heat the drum using an induction heating system have become used.

[0006] This type of drying requires an effective process for controlling the drum temperature. A control temperature table can be generated for various situations and used to control the temperature during the drying process. Specifically, the drying unit (e.g., heater) is controlled according to this control temperature table to perform the drying operation, effectively managing the drum temperature and preventing overheating.

[0007] Conventionally, control temperature tables for various conditions are obtained and set through experiments. In particular, during development, it is necessary to obtain control temperature tables for all environments and conditions through experiments.

[0008] Therefore, extensive experimentation may be required to control the drying temperature. Specifically, extensive experimentation may be required based on conditions such as the drying process (normal / low temperature), load (low / medium / high temperature), drying conditions (intermittent / continuous), outside air temperature (low / normal / high temperature), clothing quality (synthetic fiber / cotton, etc.), and moisture content (low / medium / high).

[0009] That is, it is necessary to conduct experiments with small, medium, and large loads and to obtain a control temperature table that matches each condition such as low-temperature drying process, continuous drying, high-temperature conditions, and low-moisture content conditions through manual experiments.

[0010] Using the control temperature table obtained by the above method, drying unit output fluctuates significantly when drying clothes in various processes and conditions (such as low-temperature drying, continuous drying, washing or drying-related processes, high ambient air temperature, mixed-material laundry, and low-moisture loads). Consequently, system temperature fluctuations can also become significant, affecting temperature-based sensing methods (such as dryness level sensing and abnormality sensing), potentially leading to false sensing.

[0011] Furthermore, even if a control temperature table is obtained and used in accordance with various conditions through experiments, erroneous sensing is likely to occur due to unexpected conditions, and a large number of control tables must be constructed, which may place a heavy load on the system memory.

[0012] Therefore, a solution is needed to solve the problems that may arise when performing such a drying action. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0014] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0015] An object of the present invention is to provide a clothes processing device such as a dryer, a washing machine, a washing machine and a dryer, or a clothes care device that can effectively manage the drum temperature during a drying process.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothes treating apparatus that can effectively prevent clothes from being overheated.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothes processing apparatus that can prevent malfunctions by proactively responding to situations that occur during drying.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothes processing apparatus capable of performing a drying operation by controlling the temperature of a drum using a minimum number of control temperature tables.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothes treating apparatus capable of performing a drying operation by controlling the temperature of a drum by obtaining a control temperature table based on load amounts (small, medium, and large) through experiments.

[0020] In addition, an object of the present invention is to provide a clothes treating apparatus capable of using active variable control using one control temperature table under all conditions, thereby being able to significantly reduce the amount of experimentation for drying loads in various conditions.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothes processing apparatus capable of reducing the load on a memory.

[0022] Technical solutions to the problem

[0023] In a clothes treating device such as a drying machine and a washing machine or a drying device, if drying is performed, a drying unit such as a heater is operated and the drum temperature rises. At this time, in order to protect the clothes, the drum temperature can be controlled within a prescribed range.

[0024] A clothes treating apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention can effectively manage the drum temperature in a drying process through control that is actively changed according to drying conditions and situations.

[0025] A laundry processing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention controls the use of a temperature table in a manner that matches a drying condition, thereby preventing erroneous operation and effectively managing the drum temperature.

[0026] The clothes treating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention uses a control temperature table generated through minimal experiments, thereby being able to reduce memory load and manufacturing costs.

[0027] A clothes treating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention uses a variable control temperature table based on a drying process and a change in drum temperature, thereby proactively responding to situations and managing temperature.

[0028] A laundry processing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for driving the drum; a drying unit for drying the laundry by heating the drum; and a memory for storing a control temperature table recording a control temperature based on a drying time of the laundry, wherein the drying unit can operate based on the control temperature table shifted at least once by the stored control temperature table.

[0029] When the control temperature table is moved, the set temperature corresponding to the control temperature data at each time can be changed at once according to the drying process.

[0030] As the drying of the laundry begins, the control temperature table may move based on a set drying course.

[0031] The movement of the control temperature table may include collectively changing time data corresponding to each control temperature.

[0032] The laundry processing device may further include a drying temperature sensor configured to be separated from the drum, and the control temperature table may move the difference between the time point when the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor reaches a reference temperature and the time point when the reference temperature is reached in the control temperature table.

[0033] In addition, the control temperature table includes an upper limit value and a lower limit value of the control temperature. If the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor is less than the lower limit value, the output of the drying section can be increased. If the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor is greater than the upper limit value, the output of the drying section can be reduced.

[0034] In addition, if the time point when the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor reaches the reference temperature is later than the time point when the reference temperature is reached in the control temperature table, the output of the drying section can be increased; if the time point when the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor reaches the reference temperature is earlier than the time point when the reference temperature is reached in the control temperature table, the output of the drying section can be reduced.

[0035] The induction heater may be separated from the drum. The induction heater may be provided in the outer tub. The induction heater may be fixed to the outer tub. In a laundry processing device such as a dryer without an outer tub, the induction heater may be arranged inside or on an inner wall of the housing.

[0036] In a laundry treating apparatus without an outer tub, such as a dryer, the induction heater may be disposed at an upper side, a lower side, a left side, or a right side of the drum inside the housing, at a position spaced apart from the drum.

[0037] The induction heater may be located at an upper outer side of the drum.

[0038] The induction heater can generate a magnetic field and heat the drum using the magnetic field.

[0039] The drum may include a cylindrical body and a through-hole formed in the body.

[0040] The clothes treating apparatus may further include a control unit that moves the control temperature table and controls driving of the motor and the drying unit based on the moved control temperature table.

[0041] In addition, the control unit may fix the control temperature table with respect to time and move it in the temperature direction based on the corresponding drying process.

[0042] Furthermore, the control unit may fix the control temperature table with respect to temperature and move it in a time direction based on a temperature change of the drum.

[0043] According to one aspect of the present invention, a control temperature table (or a temperature-based control profile) is experimentally produced for controlling a drum with a load including specified conditions within a specified temperature range using a drying section. The control temperature table can be shifted to match various conditions and drying can be performed.

[0044] That is, a time-based control temperature table is obtained only for experiments with a certain load amount (for example, a small amount, a medium amount, and a large amount), and drying can be performed by shifting this control temperature table in accordance with various conditions.

[0045] As an example, the present invention may include: a step of loading a control temperature table of a drum for controlling a load including specified conditions within a specified temperature range using a drying section such as a heater; a first moving step of moving the control temperature table according to a corresponding drying process; and a second moving step of determining whether the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, and if the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, moving the control temperature table to the current time.

[0046] As a specific example of this, the present invention provides a control method for a clothing processing device, wherein the clothing processing device includes an outer barrel, a drum rotatably arranged in the outer barrel and accommodating laundry, and a drying section for drying the laundry, wherein the control method may include: a step of using the drying section to start a drying action of drying a load of a first condition in the drum; a step of using the drying section to load a control temperature table for controlling the drum including a load of a second condition within a specified temperature range; a first moving step of moving the control temperature table according to a corresponding drying process; a step of judging whether the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process; and a second moving step of moving the control temperature table to the current time if the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process.

[0047] In addition, the control temperature table may record the control temperature for drying the load under the second condition.

[0048] In addition, the drying part may include an induction heater.

[0049] In addition, the control temperature table may record the temperature and time of the drum for controlling the load including the second condition within a prescribed temperature range.

[0050] Furthermore, in the first moving step, the control temperature table may be fixed with respect to time and moved in the temperature direction.

[0051] Furthermore, in the second moving step, the control temperature table may be fixed with respect to temperature and moved in the time direction.

[0052] In addition, the control temperature table may include an upper limit value and a lower limit value for controlling the drum including the load of the second condition within a prescribed temperature range.

[0053] In addition, the method may further include a step of determining whether the drying action satisfies a drying end condition.

[0054] In addition, the method may further include: if the drying action satisfies a drying end condition, terminating the drying action; and if the drying action does not satisfy the drying end condition, adjusting the output of the drying unit.

[0055] In addition, in the step of adjusting the output of the drying part, the output of the drying part may be increased or decreased by judging the temperature of the drum.

[0056] In addition, the step of adjusting the output of the drying unit may include: if the temperature of the drum is less than the lower limit, increasing the output of the drying unit; and if the temperature of the drum is greater than the upper limit, reducing the output of the drying unit.

[0057] As another specific example of this, the present invention includes: an outer barrel; a drum rotatably disposed in the outer barrel and accommodating laundry; a motor driving the drum; a drying section for drying the laundry; and a control section controlling the driving of at least one of the drum, the motor and the drying section, the control section using the drying section to start a drying action of drying a load of a first condition in the drum, using the drying section to load a control temperature table for controlling the drum including a load of a second condition within a specified temperature range, moving the control temperature table according to a corresponding drying process, and judging whether the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, if the current temperature of the drum reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, the control temperature table can be controlled to move to the current time.

[0058] In addition, when the control temperature table is moved according to the corresponding drying course, the control unit may keep the control temperature table fixed with respect to time and move it in the temperature direction.

[0059] Furthermore, when moving the control temperature table to the current time, the control unit may keep the control temperature table fixed with respect to the temperature and move it in the time direction.

[0060] In addition, the control temperature table may include an upper limit value and a lower limit value for controlling the drum including the load of the second condition within a prescribed temperature range.

[0061] In addition, if the drying action satisfies a drying end condition, the control unit may end the drying action, and if the drying action does not satisfy the drying end condition, the control unit may adjust the output of the drying unit.

[0062] In addition, the control unit may increase the output of the drying unit if the temperature of the drum is lower than the lower limit, and may reduce the output of the drying unit if the temperature of the drum is higher than the upper limit.

[0063] Effects of the Invention

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the following effects are achieved.

[0065] First, a control temperature table is obtained simply by experiments for each load amount (small, medium, and large), and the control temperature table obtained in this way is shifted to match various conditions and used.

[0066] That is, active variable control using one control temperature table under all conditions can be used, so that the amount of experimentation for drying loads under various conditions can be significantly reduced.

[0067] Therefore, even in unexpected situations, the induction heater can be stably controlled, and the system control stability can be improved. In other words, the probability of false sensing by the algorithms based on temperature and the induction heater output can be reduced.

[0068] Furthermore, since only one control temperature table can be used, the memory of the control section (microcomputer) can be used efficiently. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a control structure of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figures 4 to 6 The figures show the operating states when the drum is stopped, in tumbling drive, and in filtering drive.

[0073] Figure 7FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 9 This is a graph for explaining a process of obtaining a control temperature table according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 10 Is shown by Figure 9 A graph showing an example of a control table created by a process.

[0077] Figure 11 1 is a graph illustrating a drying action of a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figures 12 to 17 This is a graph showing an actual example of performing a drying operation by shifting and controlling the temperature table in accordance with various conditions according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals regardless of the figure numbers, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] The suffixes "module" and "unit" used in the following descriptions are assigned to components for ease of description and are used interchangeably. They do not inherently have distinct meanings or functions. Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of a known technology is determined to obscure the main purpose of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description will be omitted.

[0081] In addition, it should be understood that the drawings are only used to help understand the embodiments disclosed in this specification. The technical ideas disclosed in this specification include all changes, equivalents and substitutes within the ideas and technical scope of the present invention, and are not limited to the drawings.

[0082] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, a singular expression includes a plural expression.

[0083] In addition, although each figure is described for ease of explanation, those skilled in the art may implement other embodiments by combining at least two or more figures, which also fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

[0084] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0085] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component, it may be directly coupled or connected to the other component, but other components may exist between them. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being “directly coupled” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that no other components exist between them.

[0086] In addition, when an element such as a layer, a region, or a module is referred to as being “on” another element, it should be understood that it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may be present therebetween.

[0087] Hereinafter, a laundry processing apparatus and a control method thereof according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, a laundry processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described using a washing machine as a typical example. However, the laundry processing apparatus according to the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0088] Below, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a clothes processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0089] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a drum 30 and a drying unit 70 for heating the drum 30. The drying unit 70 may include at least one heater 70. More preferably, the drying unit may include an induction heater 70. The washing machine may further include a housing 10 forming an exterior.

[0091] The washing machine may further include an outer tub 20 accommodating the drum 30 .

[0092] The outer tub 20 may be disposed inside the housing 10 . The outer tub 20 may provide a storage space. The outer tub 20 may have an opening at the front. The outer tub 20 may contain wash water. The outer tub 20 may contain the drum 30 .

[0093] The drum 30 may be rotatably disposed inside the outer tub 20. The drum 30 may be disposed in the storage space of the outer tub 20. The drum 30 may accommodate laundry. An opening may be provided at the front of the drum 30. Laundry may be placed into the drum 30 through the opening.

[0094] A through hole 30h may be formed on the circumferential surface of the drum 30 so that air and wash water can communicate between the tub 20 and the drum 30. Hereinafter, the circumferential surface of the drum 30 is referred to as a main body of the drum 30. The main body of the drum 30 may extend in a cylindrical shape.

[0095] The drum 30 may be made of a conductor. The main body of the drum 30 may be made of a conductor. The main body of the drum 30 may be made of metal.

[0096] The induction heater or IH module 70 can heat the drum 30. The induction heater 70 can generate a magnetic field. The induction heater 70 can be configured to heat the drum 30 using the magnetic field.

[0097] The induction heater 70 can be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the outer tub 20. The induction heater 70 can be provided on the upper portion of the outer tub 20. The induction heater 70 can be fixed to the outer tub 20. The induction heater 70 can be separated from the drum 30. Here, the induction heater 70 heats the drum 30, thereby performing a laundry drying function. However, it is obvious that a general heater can be provided in addition to the induction heater 70. That is, various heaters such as a sheath heater and a heater using a heat pump can be provided.

[0098] The tub 20 and drum 30 can be cylindrical. Therefore, the inner and outer circumferences of the tub 20 and drum 30 can be substantially cylindrical. The rotation axis of the drum 30 can extend through the back of the washing machine. In other words, a straight line extending from the rotation axis 42 of the drive unit 40 can extend through the back of the washing machine.

[0099] Figure 2 The figure shows a washing machine in which the drum 30 rotates about an axis parallel to the ground. Unlike the figure, the drum 30 and tub 20 may be tilted backward. The axis of rotation of the drum 30 may extend through the back of the washing machine. In other words, a straight line extending from the rotation axis 42 of the drive unit 40 may extend through the back of the washing machine.

[0100] The laundry treatment apparatus may further include a driving unit 40 configured to rotate the drum 30 inside the outer tub 20. The driving unit 40 may include a motor 41. The motor 41 may include a rotating shaft 42. The rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the drum 30 so that the drum 30 rotates inside the outer tub 20.

[0101] The motor 41 may include a stator and a rotor. The rotor may be connected to the rotating shaft 42.

[0102] The driving unit 40 may include a star wheel 43. The star wheel 43 is a component that connects the drum 30 and the rotating shaft 42, and may be a component for uniformly and stably transmitting the rotational force of the rotating shaft 42 to the drum 30.

[0103] The star wheel 43 may be coupled to the drum 30 in a manner such that at least a portion thereof is inserted into the rear wall of the drum 30. To this end, the rear wall of the drum 30 may be formed in a manner recessed toward the interior of the drum 30. Furthermore, the star wheel 43 may be coupled in a manner such that the star wheel 43 is further inserted into the inner side of the drum 30 at the rotation center portion of the drum 30.

[0104] A lifter 50 may be provided inside the drum 30. A plurality of lifters 50 may be provided along the circumference of the drum 30. The lifter 50 may agitate the laundry. For example, as the drum 30 rotates, the lifter 50 may lift the laundry to the upper portion.

[0105] The laundry that has moved to the upper portion is separated from the lifter 50 by gravity and falls to the lower portion. The impact force generated by the falling laundry can be used to perform washing. Of course, the agitation of the laundry can improve drying efficiency. The lifter 50 can be formed to extend from the rear end to the front end of the drum 30. The laundry can be evenly distributed at the front and rear of the drum 30.

[0106] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a control structure of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Below, refer to Figure 3 A control structure of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

[0108] The control unit 90 may be configured as a main processor to control the operation of the laundry processing apparatus. The control unit 90 may control the operation of various control components described below.

[0109] The motor 41 can drive the drum. That is, the motor 41 can be configured to rotate the drum. The rotational force of the motor 41 can be directly or indirectly transmitted to the drum. As an example, a direct drive motor can be used that directly transmits the rotational force of the motor 41 to the drum.

[0110] The drum's drive mode can be changed based on the drive mode of the motor 41. Therefore, the controller 90 controls the motor 41 to generate various drum drive modes, including tumbling, filtration, and spin. The drum's drive state can also be referred to as the drum's motion.

[0111] Roller drive (refer to Figure 5) can be a drive in which the laundry (laundry) inside the drum is lifted and then drops as the drum rotates at approximately 40 to 46 RPM. In other words, a tumbling drive can be a drive that washes or soaks the laundry using the mechanical force generated by the falling laundry and the friction between the laundry and the drum. Because this drive agitates the laundry within the drum, it can be said to be the most commonly used drive.

[0112] Drum filter drive (refer to Figure 6 ) may be driven so that, as the drum rotates at about 100 RPM or more, the laundry adheres to the inner circumference of the drum inside the drum, so that the drum and the laundry rotate integrally. At this time, the laundry will be spread out on the inner circumference of the drum, and the wash water will be separated from the laundry.

[0113] The spin drive of drum can be that as drum rotates more than about 800RPM, washing water is driven by centrifugal dehydration from clothes. Under very large centrifugal force, spin drive can be performed in the final process of washing and end all washings.

[0114] Therefore, the rotation RPM of the drum will increase in the order of tumble drive, filter drive and spin drive. Spin drive can be a drive that rotates the drum continuously in one direction, and tumble drive and spin drive can be drives that repeatedly rotate and stop in forward and reverse directions.

[0115] In order to wash, it is necessary to supply washing water from the outside of the laundry treatment device to the inside of the outer tub. To this end, the laundry treatment device may be provided with a water supply valve 23. The water supply valve is connected to an external water supply source, and when the water supply valve is operated, washing water can be supplied to the inside of the laundry treatment device.

[0116] A plurality of water supply valves 23 may be provided as needed. A cold water valve 25 for supplying cold water from an external water supply source and a pre-valve 24 connected to a boiler or the like for supplying water other than cold water, such as warm water, may be provided.

[0117] When the temperature of the washing water during washing is set to normal temperature (cool or cold water), heating of the washing water is not required. Therefore, in this case, water supply can be performed solely by the cold water valve 25. However, when the temperature of the washing water during washing is set to a constant temperature other than normal temperature (25 degrees Celsius, 40 degrees Celsius, etc.), washing water can be supplied through the pre-valve 24 and the cold water valve 25. Of course, in the latter case, washing water can also be supplied solely by the cold water valve 25.

[0118] On the other hand, the pre-valve 24 and the cold water valve 25 can be the same valve for supplying cold water. Water supplied through the pre-valve 24 can flow through the interior of the drum to the outer tub, while water supplied through the cold water valve 25 can flow through the interior of the drum to the outer tub. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

[0119] In addition, the pre-valve 24 may be a water supply valve for supplying washing water to the outer tub via the detergent box, and the cold water valve 25 may be a water supply valve for directly supplying washing water to the inner part of the outer tub without passing through the detergent box.

[0120] Therefore, a plurality of water supply valves may be provided according to the temperature of the wash water and the supply path of the wash water.

[0121] The water level sensor 26 may be provided to detect the water level of the wash water supplied to the interior of the outer tub, that is, may be a sensor for controlling the water level to supply an appropriate amount of wash water.

[0122] Typically, water level sensor 26 can be a frequency sensor that detects the water level using frequency. The water level is detected by utilizing the difference in frequency detected by the water level. During washing, water level sensor 26 detects the water level and supplies water between the empty level and the maximum level. As mentioned above, the maximum level is the heater protection level, which can be the level at which the lower portion of the drum is partially submerged in the wash water. Typically, water supply continues until the wash water level reaches the heater protection level after the laundry has fully absorbed the wash water.

[0123] In a frequency sensor, the empty water level can be approximately 25.5 kHz, and the heater protection water level can be approximately 24.7 kHz. Of course, the specific frequency value can vary depending on the size of the washing machine, the model of the frequency sensor, and the external environment. However, in a frequency sensor, the higher the frequency, the lower the water level.

[0124] The control unit 90 controls the operation of the water supply valve 23 based on the water level value detected by the water level sensor 26 .

[0125] As an example of a heater, an induction heater (IH module) 70 may be a heater that heats the drum 30 by induction. As previously mentioned, other types of heaters may be provided instead of the induction heater. The following description uses the induction heater 70 as an example of a heater, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0126] By heating the drum 30 with the induction heater 70, the wash water can be heated. Of course, not only the wash water but also the clothing in contact with the drum 30 can be directly heated. This heating method directly heats the clothing absorbing the wash water, thereby enhancing the heating effect. Furthermore, since heat diffusion to the surrounding area is reduced, heating efficiency is further improved.

[0127] The heating by the induction heater 70 during washing may be performed based on temperature data sensed by the temperature sensor 28. That is, if the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, the heating may be terminated.

[0128] The induction heater 70 can heat the drum 30 to approximately 160 degrees Celsius in a short period of time. For example, the outer peripheral surface temperature of the drum 30 can reach 160 degrees Celsius in approximately 3 seconds. Therefore, it may be necessary to transfer the heat in the drum 30 to the wash water and laundry to prevent overheating of the drum 30 and the induction heater 70.

[0129] To prevent the drum 30 from overheating, a drying temperature sensor 29 may be provided. The drying temperature sensor 29 may be configured to directly or indirectly detect the temperature of the outer peripheral surface of the drum 30. If the drying temperature sensor 29 determines that the drum 30 is overheated, the control unit 90 stops the operation of the induction heater.

[0130] The washing water temperature sensor 28 can be installed at the bottom of the outer tub 20 to detect the temperature of the washing water. The drying temperature sensor 29 can be installed at the top of the outer tub 20 to detect the temperature of the outer circumference of the drum 30. Therefore, it is advantageous to have different installation locations and detection targets for the two.

[0131] The washing water temperature sensor 28 can directly detect the temperature of the washing water. The drying temperature sensor 29 can be separated from the rotating drum 30, thereby indirectly detecting the temperature of the drum 30. Therefore, it is advantageous that the two have different detection mechanisms and methods.

[0132] The washing water temperature sensor 28 can be configured to detect the washing water temperature when the drum 30 is stopped. The induction heater 70 can be controlled to not operate when the target temperature is reached. The drying temperature sensor 29 can be configured to detect the temperature of the drum 30 while the drum 30 is rotating. In particular, the temperature can be detected both while the drum 30 is rotating and while the induction heater 70 is operating. Therefore, it is advantageous to detect the temperature at different times.

[0133] With this dual sensor configuration, a safe clothes treating apparatus and a control method thereof can be provided.

[0134] As the drum 30 is driven, the detergent water absorbed by the clothes may be gradually discharged to the outer tub 20, so the washing effect may be reduced. Therefore, a circulation pump 80 for supplying or resupplying detergent water to the clothes may be provided.

[0135] The circulation pump 80 may be configured to draw a portion of the wash water from the lower portion of the outer tub 20, then spray the wash water onto the laundry from the upper portion of the drum 30. The pressure of the sprayed wash water improves the washing effect and, by resupplying the wash water (detergent water) to the laundry, keeps the laundry fully wet. Therefore, even when the laundry is not submerged in the wash water, efficient washing can be achieved.

[0136] Washing with a laundry treatment device can proceed through initial water supply, soaking the clothes, heating, and the main wash steps or intervals. After the main wash, rinsing and spinning can be performed to complete the wash cycle. The entire washing process or wash cycle will automatically execute and end in the order of the wash cycle, rinse cycle, and spin cycle.

[0137] The washing machine of one embodiment of the present invention may further include a memory (not shown) for storing various data, such as control data for controlling the operation of the washing machine, input operation setting data, operation mode data, and reference data for error judgment.

[0138] In addition, the memory may store data calculated, sensed, or measured during operation of the washing machine.

[0139] In addition, a control temperature table in which control temperatures based on elapsed drying time are recorded may be stored in the memory.

[0140] The control unit 90 can load and use the control temperature table stored in the memory. In addition, the control unit 90 can move the control temperature table. If necessary, the control unit 90 can control the storage of the moved control temperature table.

[0141] According to an embodiment, the control unit 90 may include a memory storing a control temperature table. The control unit 90 may move the control temperature table and control the driving of the motor 41 and the drying unit based on the moved control temperature table. The control unit 90 may move the control temperature table one or more times depending on drying conditions and circumstances and control the drying process based on the moved control temperature table.

[0142] The control temperature table can be moved by fixing the data of a certain item and changing the remaining data by the same value. For example, the control unit 90 can move the control temperature table by fixing the time data and increasing or decreasing the control temperature data corresponding to each time data. Alternatively, the control unit 90 can move the control temperature table by fixing the control temperature data and increasing or decreasing the time data corresponding to each control temperature data.

[0143] Alternatively, the control temperature table can be represented as a graph with time and temperature axes. In this case, one axis of the control temperature table can be fixed and the other axis can be movable. For example, the control unit 90 can fix the time axis and move the control temperature table in the direction of the temperature axis. Alternatively, the control unit 90 can fix the temperature axis and move the control temperature table in the direction of the time axis.

[0144] Figures 4 to 6 1 and 2 show states of drum stop, tumbling drive, and filtering drive in a method for controlling a laundry processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] In this embodiment, if Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the washing water heating can be performed using the coil 71 of the induction heater 70. As long as there is no contradiction with this, a sheathed heater 12 provided at the lower part of the outer tub can also be provided. That is, the clothes processing device of this embodiment can include both the induction heater 70 and the sheathed heater 12, or can be provided with only the induction heater 70.

[0146] Therefore, as in the related art, a mode of heating the washing water using the jacketed heater 12 can be used, and on the other hand, a mode of heating the washing water using the induction heater 70 without operating the jacketed heater 12 can be used.

[0147] like Figure 5 As shown, during tumbling driving, as the drum 30 rotates, the laundry may be lifted by the lifter 30 and then dropped by gravity, and circulating water may be sprayed into the interior of the drum 30. In addition, the induction module may be driven to heat the drum 30.

[0148] like Figure 6 As shown, during the filtration drive or the filtration drive during the circulation drive, as the drum rotates, the laundry W may adhere closely to the inner circumferential surface of the drum 30 and rotate integrally with the drum 30. This is because the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the drum 30 is greater than gravity. At this time, the circulating water 30 may be sprayed into the interior of the drum, and the induction heater 70 may be driven to heat the drum 30.

[0149] Figure 5 and Figure 63 shows a state where wash water circulates and is sprayed from the upper portion of the drum 30 into the drum 30, and a state where the induction heater 70 (coil 71) is driven and provides a changing magnetic field to the drum 30. The change in the magnetic field generates eddy currents in the drum, and heat is generated by these eddy currents.

[0150] Therefore, if Figures 4 to 6 As shown, in the entire heating interval, the heater protection water level is destroyed, so that the water level will always be lower than the lowest water level of the lower part of the drum, that is, below the circulating water level.

[0151] As mentioned above, the drum tumbling drive is a drive that lifts and then drops the laundry inside the drum as the drum rotates at approximately 40 to 46 RPM. The tumbling drive utilizes the mechanical force generated by the falling laundry and the friction between the laundry and the drum to wash or soak the laundry. Because the laundry is agitated within the drum, this is the most commonly used drive.

[0152] That is, the rotation speed of about 40 to 46 RPM may correspond to the rotation speed range in which the laundry (clothes) tumbles and falls in the drum 30. This mode in which the laundry (clothes) tumbles and falls in the drum 30 may be referred to as a tumbling or tumbling process.

[0153] On the other hand, the laundry processing device of one embodiment of the present invention can perform a drying function. In this case, the laundry processing device of one embodiment of the present invention can be referred to as a drying and washing device. On the other hand, the laundry processing device of one embodiment of the present invention can be a dryer for drying laundry or wet clothes.

[0154] The air is cooled on the inner circumference of the tub 20 and moisture can be condensed and discharged. In other words, even if there is no air circulation inside the tub 20, moisture condensation can be performed by itself to perform drying.

[0155] To more effectively condense moisture and increase drying efficiency, cooling water can be supplied to the interior of the tub 20. The wider the surface area where the cooling water and tub 20 meet—that is, the surface area in contact with the cooling water and air—the more beneficial it is. To this end, cooling water can be supplied while being widely spread across the back, one, or both sides of the tub 20. This cooling water supply prevents the cooling water from flowing along the interior surface of the tub 20 and into the interior of the drum.

[0156] In order to perform the drying function, a fan (not shown) for blowing air into the inner part of the outer tub 20 and a duct (not shown) for installing the fan may be further included. The blowing fan can control the flow of air inside the clothes treating apparatus during the drying process.

[0157] A clothes treating apparatus such as a dryer may not have the outer tub 20. The air supply fan may circulate the air of the drum 30.

[0158] On the other hand, a separate heater is not required for drying the laundry. Specifically, the aforementioned heater, for example, the induction heater 70, can be used to dry the laundry. In other words, a single induction heater 70 can heat the washing water during washing, heat the laundry during dehydration, and heat the laundry during drying.

[0159] If the drum 30 is driven and the induction heater 70 is driven, substantially the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum 30 can be heated. The drum 30 heated in this manner can heat the wet laundry during heat exchange with the wet laundry.

[0160] In this process, the air inside the drum 30 can also be heated. Therefore, if air is supplied to the inside of the drum 30, the air in which moisture is evaporated by heat exchange can be discharged to the outside of the drum 30.

[0161] The supply position of air and the exhaust position of air can be determined so that the heated air is evenly supplied to the drying object and the wet air can be smoothly exhausted. To this end, air can be supplied from the front upper part of the drum 30 and can be exhausted through the rear of the drum 30.

[0162] As previously mentioned, the induction heater 70 is driven in conjunction with the drum 30, causing the laundry to repeatedly rise and fall with the drum 30. This allows for drying through the aforementioned tumbling operation. In this case, the drum 30 is heated at the top, rather than the bottom, effectively preventing overheating of the laundry.

[0163] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] As mentioned above, the clothes treating apparatus of this embodiment may include two temperature sensors 28 , 29 .

[0165] The washing water temperature sensor 28 is mounted at the bottom of the outer tub 20 to sense the temperature of the washing water. The drying temperature sensor 29 is mounted at the top of the outer tub 20 to sense the temperature of the outer circumference of the drum 30.

[0166] When washing is performed, the control unit 90 can control the heating of washing water and the driving of the induction heater 70 (or the coil 71 of the induction heater 70, hereinafter collectively referred to as the induction heater 70) based on the temperature sensed in the drying temperature sensor 29.

[0167] like Figure 7As shown, the coil 71 of the induction heater 70 can be installed on the upper portion of the outer tub 20. That is, the induction heater 70 can be installed on the upper outer circumference of the outer tub 20. In a laundry processing device such as a dryer without an outer tub 20, the induction heater 70 can be installed inside or on the inner wall of the housing. In this case, the induction heater 70 can be installed on the upper portion of the drum 30. Due to this installation position of the induction heater 70, the upper outer circumference of the drum can be heated by the induction heater 70.

[0168] On the other hand, in a laundry treating apparatus without an outer tub such as a dryer, the induction heater 70 may be disposed at an upper side, a lower side, a left side, or a right side of the drum inside the housing at a position spaced apart from the drum.

[0169] Since the object inside the drum 30 does not contact the upper portion of the drum when the drum 30 is stopped, the position of the induction heater 70 can be determined to effectively prevent overheating of the object. Therefore, as the drum 30 rotates, the induction heater 70 can be controlled to drive, which means that the object can be heated evenly.

[0170] Here, the installation position of the drying temperature sensor 29 may be important because it is necessary to optimally measure the temperature of the air inside the tub 20 while optimally measuring the temperature of the heated drum 30 .

[0171] The drying temperature sensor 29 may be installed on one side of the induction heater 70, preferably away from the projection surface of the lower side of the induction heater 70. Specifically, the drying temperature sensor 29 may be installed on the right side of the outer tub 20 at approximately two points.

[0172] The drying temperature sensor 29 can be installed so as to extend from the outside to the inside of the outer tub 20. Therefore, the signal line or wire of the drying temperature sensor 29 is disposed outside the outer tub 20, and the sensing portion for sensing can be installed so as to protrude radially inward from the inner circumference of the outer tub 20.

[0173] Therefore, the drying temperature sensor 29 can directly sense the temperature of the air in the space between the outer circumference of the drum 30 and the inner circumference of the tub. By sensing the temperature, the temperature of the outer circumference of the drum 20 can be indirectly sensed or estimated.

[0174] On the other hand, in a laundry processing apparatus without an outer tub such as a dryer, the drying temperature sensor 29 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from the drum, above, below, on the left, or on the right side of the drum inside the housing.

[0175] The control unit 90 may control the driving of the induction heater 70 based on the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29. That is, the drying temperature sensor 29 may be used to prevent the drum 30 from overheating and the internal temperature of the tub 20 from overheating.

[0176] The basic functions and characteristics of the drying temperature sensor 29 can be utilized to perform drying degree or humidity sensing.

[0177] On the other hand, the wash water temperature sensor 28 is configured to sense the temperature of the wash water and can therefore be installed at the bottom of the outer tub 20. Therefore, the installation location of the wash water temperature sensor 28 can be the same as that of a typical laundry processing device. Specifically, it can be installed at the bottom of the outer tub 20 so that it can sense the temperature of the wash water by being immersed in the wash water. The wash water temperature sensor 28 can be spaced upward from the bottom surface of the outer tub 20. In this case, it can be located at a lower position than the bottom surface of the drum 30.

[0178] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0179] In a laundry processing device such as a washing machine or drying machine, when drying is performed, a drying unit such as a heater (hereinafter referred to as an induction heater 70) is activated, and the temperature of the drum 30 increases. In this case, to protect the laundry, the temperature of the drum 30 can be indirectly controlled within a specified range. The laundry processing device according to one aspect of the present invention can effectively manage the drum temperature during the drying cycle by actively changing the control according to the drying conditions and circumstances.

[0180] A control temperature table (or temperature-based control profile) can be created through experimentation to control the drum 30 within a specified temperature range for a load (e.g., laundry) under specified conditions using the induction heater 70. The laundry processing apparatus of one aspect of the present invention can shift the generated control temperature table to suit various conditions and perform drying. The laundry processing apparatus of one aspect of the present invention can shift the control temperature table to suit the drying conditions, thereby preventing malfunctions and effectively managing the drum temperature.

[0181] In addition, the clothes treating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention can use a control temperature table generated through minimal experiments, thereby being able to reduce memory load and manufacturing costs.

[0182] For example, a time-based control temperature table (curve) may be obtained for experiments with only a portion of load amounts (eg, small, medium, and large), and drying may be performed by shifting this control temperature table in accordance with various conditions.

[0183] A clothes treating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention uses a variable control temperature table based on a drying process and a change in drum temperature, thereby proactively responding to situations and managing temperature.

[0184] The laundry processing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention stores a control temperature table recording control temperatures according to elapsed drying time of laundry in a memory, and the drying unit can operate based on a control temperature table shifted at least once in the stored control temperature table.

[0185] As another example, a control method for a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a step (S5) of loading a control temperature table (control table) for controlling a drum 30 including a load under specified conditions within a specified temperature range using a drying portion such as an induction heater 70; a first moving step (S10) of moving the control temperature table according to a corresponding drying process; and a second moving step (S30) of determining whether the current temperature of the drum 30 reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, and if the current temperature of the drum 30 reaches the control start temperature of the corresponding drying process, moving the control temperature table to the current time (present time).

[0186] Figure 9 This is a graph for explaining a process of generating a control temperature table according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] An example of a process for experimentally creating a control temperature table (or a temperature-based control profile) for controlling a load (eg, laundry) of drum 30 with predetermined conditions within a predetermined temperature range using induction heater 70 can be implemented as follows.

[0188] First, a wireless temperature sensor is installed on the drum 30. While monitoring the value of the wireless temperature sensor, the target temperature can be obtained through experiments (for example, the output of the induction heater 70 is controlled to match 150°C while obtaining a control temperature table (or a control curve (profile) based on temperature)).

[0189] In this case, as an example, a wireless temperature sensor may be temporarily installed on the drum 30. In addition, a target temperature (for example, a process of controlling the output of the induction heater 70 to match 150°C) may be achieved by an operator.

[0190] Alternatively, the drying temperature sensor 29 may be used to generate a control temperature table while monitoring the temperature data sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29 .

[0191] As an example, the process of obtaining such a control temperature table T through experiments can be realized by performing a drying operation while manually controlling a predetermined amount of load (laundry).

[0192] That is, the drying action is performed while manually controlling a small amount (eg, 1 kg), a medium amount (eg, 3 kg), and a large amount (eg, 6 kg) of loads, so that the control temperature table T can be obtained.

[0193] Specifically, the control temperature table T can be recorded while confirming the temperature changes of the drying temperature sensor 29 caused by drying such small (for example, 1 kg), medium (for example, 3 kg), and large (for example, 6 kg) loads.

[0194] Depending on the situation, this control temperature table T (or control table) can record different weights of the load (for example, laundry). As an example, this control temperature table T can record three different weights. The control temperature table T obtained as described above can achieve a control effect that can meet the needs of loads of various weights.

[0195] Figure 10 Is shown by Figure 9 Here is an example of a control table created by the process. Figure 8 and Figure 10 , a detailed description of the drying execution process of an embodiment of the present invention is given.

[0196] First, the drum 30 is heated by the induction heater 70, thereby starting a drying process for drying the laundry or wet clothes contained in the drum 30. For example, by operating the induction heater 70, the drying process for drying a load (for example, laundry) under a first condition in the drum 30 can be started.

[0197] The control unit 90 can load a control temperature table T from memory. This table is generated through experiments based on load conditions and simply consists of control temperatures over time to prevent excessive temperature increases in the drum 30 and maintain a safe temperature range. For example, the control temperature can be an appropriate temperature value at a given time. For example, the control temperature can correspond to a target temperature for drying. Optionally, the control temperature can include a specified management range. For example, the control temperature can include an upper limit and a lower limit.

[0198] According to an embodiment, using the induction heater 70 , a control temperature table T for controlling the drum 30 including the load of the second condition within a prescribed temperature range may be loaded ( S5 ).

[0199] As described above, the second condition may be a condition for recording the load of the above-mentioned control temperature table T. Figure 9 For example, the second condition may be a condition based on the weight of a prescribed load. As described above, the second condition may be a small amount (e.g., 1 kg), a medium amount (e.g., 3 kg), and a large amount (e.g., 6 kg) load.

[0200] On the other hand, the first condition may be the load (laundry) used to perform the actual drying operation. This first condition may be different from the second condition. That is, the first condition and the second condition may differ in terms of the drying process, the drying weight, the type of laundry, whether continuous drying or intermittent drying is performed, etc.

[0201] Then, the control temperature table T may be shifted (shift 1) according to the corresponding drying course (first shift step) (S10). For example, according to the selected specific drying course, the control temperature table T may be shifted (shift 1) by a set temperature.

[0202] Then, it is determined whether the current temperature of the drum 30 reaches the control start temperature or the reference temperature of the corresponding drying process (S20). At this time, the determination of the current temperature can be achieved by the drying temperature sensor 29 (TM1).

[0203] The control start temperature is a starting point of temperature control, and the control portion 90 may perform temperature control based on whether the control start temperature is reached, a time point is reached, a predetermined time point is reached, or the like.

[0204] Depending on circumstances, a reference temperature may be set with a predetermined margin between the control start temperatures, and the control unit 90 may perform temperature control based on the control start temperature and / or the reference temperature.

[0205] As a specific example, it is possible to determine whether the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) has reached the control start temperature. In this case, there may be a difference between the drying temperature sensor (TM1) and the actual temperature of the drum 30, and this difference can be used for determination. For example, it is possible to determine whether the difference between the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) and the control start temperature has reached a temperature 4°C lower than the actual temperature (for example, whether the difference between the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) and the control start temperature has reached a temperature 4°C lower than the actual temperature). It is also possible to determine whether the difference between the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) and the control start temperature has reached a temperature 4°C lower than the actual temperature (for example, whether the difference between the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) and the control start temperature has reached a temperature 4°C lower than the actual temperature).

[0206] Then, if it is determined that the current temperature of the drum 30 sensed reaches the control start temperature corresponding to the drying process, the control temperature table T may be moved to the current time (second moving step) (S30). Here, the current time may refer to the time when the current temperature is measured.

[0207] Table 1 shows the control start temperature by process.

[0208]

Table 1

[0209] Move by process temperature Control starting temperature Target temperature normal 85℃ 150℃ Low temperature 60℃ 110℃ Abnormal load detected 45℃ 110℃

[0210] As shown in Table 1, the temperature (drum temperature) at which the drying process starts to be controlled can be preset. In addition, the target temperature (Drum Target) of the drum 30 at this time can be preset.

[0211] Table 1 also shows the degree of temperature shift for each set drying process. That is, for example, the control start temperature can be set differently depending on the conditions such as normal, low temperature, and abnormal load detection.

[0212] For example, in normal conditions, the control start temperature may be 85° C., and the target drum temperature may be 150° C. This means that if the temperature of the drum 30 reaches 80° C. under the corresponding condition (or process), the control of the induction heater 70 is started.

[0213] That is, as described above, if the induction heater 70 is not controlled when the temperature of the drum 30 reaches 80°C, it may be difficult to control the drum 30 to the target drum temperature. For example, if the induction heater 70 is not controlled when the temperature of the drum 30 reaches 80°C, the temperature of the drum 30 may exceed the target drum temperature and overheat.

[0214] Therefore, if the temperature of the drum 30 reaches 80° C. under the corresponding conditions (or processes), the control of the induction heater 70 is started. At this time, the induction heater 70 can be controlled according to the control temperature table T obtained above.

[0215] As described above, as an example, the control temperature table T is obtained only for experiments according to load amount (small, medium and large). As described above, the obtained control temperature table T can be shifted (shift 1, shift 2) according to various conditions to control the drying operation.

[0216] That is, according to the load condition, the control temperature table T can be shifted (shift 1 and shift 2) in accordance with various situations.

[0217] As an example, the control temperature data corresponding to each time may be changed to the temperature set for each drying course. According to an embodiment, as the drying of the laundry begins, the control temperature table may be moved based on the set drying course.

[0218] The shifting of the control temperature table may include modifying the time data corresponding to each control temperature. For example, the control temperature table may be shifted by the difference between the time when the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29, which is spaced apart from the drum 30, reaches a reference temperature and the time when the reference temperature is reached in the control temperature table.

[0219] The control temperature table may include an upper limit value and a lower limit value of the control temperature.

[0220] If the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29 is lower than the lower limit value, the control unit 90 may increase the output of the drying unit; if the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor is higher than the upper limit value, the control unit 90 may reduce the output of the drying unit.

[0221] Furthermore, if the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29 reaches a reference temperature (or control start temperature) based on the control start temperature setting later than the reference temperature set in the control temperature table, the control unit 90 may increase the output of the drying unit. If the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor 29 reaches the reference temperature earlier than the reference temperature set in the control temperature table, the control unit 90 may decrease the output of the drying unit. This allows for adaptive response to the temperature conditions of the drum 30 and stable temperature management within a specified range.

[0222] For example, the temperature of the drum 30 may be increased quickly or slowly during drying according to the increase or decrease in load amount, increase or decrease in moisture content of the load (laundry), and type of the load (laundry) (eg, type of fiber).

[0223] For example, when the control temperature table T corresponds to a load (or process), the control of the induction heater 70 may start at a specified time. However, the temperature of the drum 30 may not reach the control start temperature by the specified time, or conversely, the temperature of the drum 30 may reach the control start temperature before the specified time. The control temperature table T may be shifted (shift 2) based on this time difference.

[0224] That is, if the temperature of the drum 30 reaches the control start temperature (for example, 85°) before the load corresponding time, the control temperature table T can be shifted (shift 2) at the time when the control start temperature is reached (the above-mentioned current time).

[0225] For example, if the temperature of the drum 30 rises rapidly, the control temperature table T may be used in advance in the fast time period, and if the temperature of the drum 30 rises slowly, the control temperature table T may be used in a delayed (shift 2) time period.

[0226] In addition, the temperature axis of the drying process can be used to control the movement of the temperature table T (shift 1).

[0227] For example, in a normal drying course, the control temperature table T may be used at a higher temperature to match a high temperature setting, and in a low temperature drying course, the control temperature table T may be used at a lower temperature to match a low temperature setting.

[0228] Such a control temperature table T may record temperature and time for controlling the drum 30 including the load within a prescribed temperature range.

[0229] Reference Figure 10 , the movement of the control temperature table T can be moved parallel to the time axis (shift 2) or along the temperature axis (shift 1).

[0230] That is, the first shift step (shift 1; S10) can keep the control temperature table T fixed with respect to time and shift it in the temperature direction. In addition, the second shift step (shift 2; S30) can keep the control temperature table T fixed with respect to temperature and shift it in the time direction.

[0231] In this case, the first shift step (shift 1; S10) and the second shift step (shift 2; S30) can be performed in a different order. For example, depending on the situation, the step (S20) of determining whether the current temperature of the drum 30 has reached the control start temperature corresponding to the drying process and the second shift step (shift 2; S30) can be performed before the first shift step (shift 1; S10). Alternatively, depending on the implementation example, the first shift step (shift 1; S10) and the second shift step (shift 2; S30) can be performed simultaneously.

[0232] In addition, at least one of the first movement step (shift 1; S10) and the second movement step (shift 2; S30) can be performed in real time and continuously during the drying process. For example, at least one of the first movement step (shift 1; S10) and the second movement step (shift 2; S30) can be performed by continuously sensing the temperature of the drum 30 in real time.

[0233] That is, if the sensing value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1) is received in real time and there is a difference between it and the temperature on the control temperature table T, the control unit 90 can control to execute at least one of the first movement step (shift 1; S10) and the second movement step (shift 2; S30) again at the corresponding time point.

[0234] On the other hand, refer to Figure 10 The control temperature table T may include an upper limit value and a lower limit value for controlling the drum 30 within a specified temperature range.

[0235] For example, when creating a control temperature table T, the temperature of the drum 30 can be controlled within a predetermined range. This may be an inherent characteristic of temperature control using a temperature sensor.

[0236] Refer again Figure 8 Then, a step (S40) of determining whether the currently-performing drying operation satisfies the drying termination condition may be performed. In other words, it may be determined whether the drying of the load (laundry) is complete. For example, the control unit 90 may determine the dryness of the load (laundry) based on data sensed by various sensors, and may determine whether the drying is complete.

[0237] As a result of the judgment, if the drying of the load (laundry) is completed, that is, if the currently performed drying action satisfies the drying end condition, the corresponding drying action can be ended.

[0238] On the other hand, if it is determined that the drying of the load (laundry) is not completed, that is, if the currently performed drying operation does not meet the drying end condition, the step of adjusting the output of the induction heater 70 ( S50 ) may be performed.

[0239] For example, if the currently performed drying action does not meet the drying end condition, the output of the induction heater 70 may be increased or decreased by adjusting the output of the induction heater 70 .

[0240] Specifically, in the process of adjusting the output of the induction heater 70 ( S50 ), the control part 90 may determine whether the temperature of the drum 30 is less than a lower limit value ( S51 ).

[0241] At this time, if the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor ( TM1 )) is lower than the lower limit value of the control temperature table T, the control unit 90 may increase the output of the induction heater 70 ( S52 ).

[0242] Furthermore, the control unit 90 may determine whether the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1)) is greater than the upper limit of the control temperature table T (S53). If the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1)) is greater than the upper limit of the control temperature table T, the control unit 90 may reduce the output of the induction heater 70 (S54).

[0243] Depending on the situation, if it is first determined whether the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensing value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1)) is less than the lower limit value of the control temperature table T, if the temperature of the drum 30 is not less than the lower limit value, the control unit 90 can determine whether the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensing value of the drying temperature sensor (TM1)) is greater than the upper limit value of the control temperature table T (S53).

[0244] At this time, if the temperature of the drum 30 (the sensed value of the drying temperature sensor TM1 ) is greater than the upper limit value of the control temperature table T, the control unit 90 may reduce the output of the induction heater 70 ( S54 ).

[0245] The process of performing such drying operation can be controlled by the control unit 90 (refer to Figure 3 ) is implemented in .

[0246] Figure 11 1 is a graph illustrating a drying action of a method for controlling a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0247] Figure 11 A specific example of the drying operation is shown. As an example, Figure 11 The rotation speed of the drum 30 during the drying operation is shown as the drying time progresses.

[0248] First, the drying operation rotates the drum 30 clockwise at a first rotation speed for a predetermined time, then at a second rotation speed higher than the first rotation speed for a predetermined time, and then stops rotating.

[0249] For example, Figure 11 As shown, after the drum 30 is rotated at 40 rpm for a prescribed time, the rotation speed is increased to 52 rpm, and then the drum 30 may be rotated for a prescribed time.

[0250] At this time, the drum 30 may be rotated at high rpm for a relatively long time. For example, after rotating the drum 30 at 40 rpm for 27 seconds, the drum may be rotated at 52 rpm for 30 seconds. Then, the driving of the drum 30 may be stopped for a predetermined time.

[0251] This action can then be repeated by switching the rotation direction in the counterclockwise direction. That is, the rotation direction of the drum 30 is simply reversed and the drum 30 is driven at the same speed and time.

[0252] Then, the rotation speed can be gradually increased. The steps of this increase can correspond to the specified rotation speed. For example, the initial driving speed of the drum 30 can be gradually increased from 40 rpm to 44 rpm and then to 48 rpm, and then the rotation speed can be reduced again and the same action can be repeated. This action can be repeated until the drying is completed.

[0253] As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, a control temperature table (Table; T) can be used to perform drying operations corresponding to all environments and conditions.

[0254] In the prior art, it is necessary to experimentally determine and set a control temperature table for many conditions. In particular, it is necessary to experimentally determine a control temperature table for all environments and conditions.

[0255] Therefore, extensive experimentation may be required to control the drying temperature. Specifically, extensive experimentation may be required based on drying schedule (normal / low temperature), load size (small / medium / large), drying conditions (intermittent / continuous), outside air temperature (low / normal / high temperature), laundry quality (synthetic fiber / cotton, etc.), and moisture content (low / medium / high). These conditions may correspond to the first condition described above, which is applicable to actual laundry.

[0256] In addition, when drying is performed in the clothes processing apparatus, the induction heater 70 is activated and the temperature of the drum 30 increases. In order to protect the clothes (laundry), the temperature of the drum 30 can be controlled to maintain a target temperature (for example, 150°C).

[0257] In this case, the temperature of the drum 30 can be indirectly measured using a drying temperature sensor (TM1) located separately from the drum 30. The control unit 90 can control the laundry processing device based on the temperature data sensed by the drying temperature sensor (TM1). In this case, the control unit 90 performs control based on a control temperature table. As mentioned above, the control temperature table may require extensive experimentation. Specifically, it is necessary to conduct experiments with small, medium, and large loads, and manually determine the control temperature table to match each low-temperature drying process (target temperature 110°C, continuous drying, high temperature conditions, low moisture content conditions, etc.).

[0258] Using the control temperature table obtained by the above method, the output of the induction heater 70 fluctuates significantly when drying clothes in various processes and conditions (such as low-temperature drying, continuous drying, washing or drying-related processes, high ambient air temperature, mixed-material clothing, and low-moisture loads). Consequently, system temperature fluctuations also become significant, affecting temperature-based sensing methods (such as dryness level sensing and abnormality sensing), potentially leading to false sensing.

[0259] Furthermore, even if a control temperature table is obtained and used in accordance with various conditions through experiments, erroneous sensing is likely to occur due to unexpected conditions, and a large number of control tables must be constructed, which may place a heavy load on the system memory.

[0260] However, as described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the control temperature table T is obtained only by experiments according to the load amount (small amount, medium amount, and large amount) (which can correspond to the second condition), and the control temperature table T obtained in this manner is moved to match various conditions (i.e., the first condition) and the control temperature table T can be used.

[0261] That is, active variable control using one control temperature table can be used under all conditions, thereby significantly reducing the amount of experimentation for drying loads under various conditions, and stably controlling the induction heater even under unexpected conditions.

[0262] In addition, the system control stability can be improved. That is, the probability of false sensing by the temperature-based and induction heater output-based algorithms can be reduced.

[0263] Furthermore, since only one control temperature table can be used, the memory of the control section (microcomputer) can be used efficiently.

[0264] Figures 12 to 17 This is a graph showing an actual example of performing a drying operation by shifting and controlling the temperature table in accordance with various conditions according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0265] Right now, Figures 12 to 17 The figure shows an actual example of controlling the drying action by shifting (shift 1 and shift 2) the control temperature table T in accordance with various conditions according to drying conditions, such as continuous drying and intermittent drying, and according to a normal process and a low temperature process.

[0266] exist Figure 12 、 Figure 14 as well as Figure 16 In FIG. 1 , AvgDryD shows the average temperature of a sensor used for control (for example, a drying temperature sensor ( TM1 )).

[0267] First, in Figure 12 FIG. 2 shows the movement process in the normal process (continuous drying after the previous drying operation, that is, the state in which the temperature of the drum 30 is increased). Figure 13 A state in which the temperature of the drum 30 is controlled thereby is shown.

[0268] Reference Figure 12 , shows that the control start temperature is 85°C as an example. At this time, Figure 12 The arrows indicate the time points where the temperature table T is controlled to perform the drying operation according to the shift (shift 1 and shift 2) increase in accordance with the temperature of the drum 30 .

[0269] At this time, refer to Figure 13 As described above, in the case where the temperature table T is controlled by shifting (shift 1 and shift 2) to perform the drying action, it is shown that the temperature of the drum 30 can be controlled within the target area (P).

[0270] in addition, Figure 14 The moving process in the normal process (the case where no drying action is performed before, that is, the temperature of the drum 30 does not rise) is shown. Figure 15 A state in which the temperature of the drum 30 is controlled thereby is shown.

[0271] Reference Figure 14 , shows that the control start temperature is 85°C as an example. At this time, Figure 14 The arrows indicate the time points where the temperature table T is controlled to perform the drying operation according to the shift (shift 1 and shift 2) increase in accordance with the temperature of the drum 30 .

[0272] and Figure 12 Compared with the situation in Figure 14 In the case of , it can be seen that the temperature rises relatively slowly, and therefore, it can be seen that shift 2 is relatively biased to the right during the shift table T. In other words, it can be seen that the control start time point is delayed.

[0273] At this time, refer to Figure 15 As described above, in the case where the temperature table T is controlled by shifting (shift 1 and shift 2) to perform the drying action, it is also shown that the temperature of the drum 30 can be controlled within the target area (P).

[0274] on the other hand, Figure 16 The moving process in the low temperature (LowTemp) process is shown in the state of intermittent drying (the drying action is not performed before, that is, the temperature of the drum 30 is not increased). Figure 17 A state in which the temperature of the drum 30 is controlled thereby is shown.

[0275] Reference Figure 16 , showing that the control start temperature is 60°C as an example, at this time, Figure 16 The arrows indicate the time points where the temperature table T is controlled to perform the drying operation according to the shift (shift 1 and shift 2) increase in accordance with the temperature of the drum 30 .

[0276] and Figure 12 and Figure 14 In comparison, Figure 16 In the case of , it can be seen that the state of shift 1 is performed at a temperature of 60°C.

[0277] In addition, it can be seen that due to shift 1, the temperature is corresponding to Figure 12 and Figure 14 The middle state of the case is raised, so it can be seen that during the shift 2 table T can be located Figure 12 and Figure 14 in the middle of the situation.

[0278] At this time, refer to Figure 17 As described above, in the case where the temperature table T is controlled by shifting (shift 1 and shift 2) to perform the drying action, it is also shown that the temperature of the drum 30 can be controlled within the target area (P).

[0279] The above description is merely an illustration of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential features of the present invention.

[0280] Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention but are for explanation, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited by these embodiments.

[0281] The protection scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the appended claims, and all technical ideas within the equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A clothes processing device, wherein: include: a drum, for accommodating laundry; a motor driving the drum; a drying unit, drying the laundry by heating the drum; as well as a memory storing a control temperature table obtained through experiments based on load amounts, wherein the control temperature table records control temperatures corresponding to drying times of the laundry; The drying section operates based on the control temperature table that has been stored and moved at least once; The control temperature table is represented in the form of a graph having a time axis and a temperature axis; The movement of the control temperature table moves along the time axis or the temperature axis.

2. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The movement of the control temperature table includes changing the set temperature of the control temperature data corresponding to each time according to the drying process.

3. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: As the drying of the laundry begins, the control temperature table moves based on a set drying course.

4. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The movement of the control temperature table includes a collective change of the time data corresponding to each control temperature. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein: It also includes a drying temperature sensor that is separated from the drum. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein: The control temperature table shifts by an amount corresponding to a difference between a time point at which the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor reaches a reference temperature and a time point at which the temperature in the control temperature table reaches the reference temperature.

7. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein: The control temperature table includes the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the control temperature, If the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor is lower than the lower limit, the output of the drying part is increased; if the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor is higher than the upper limit, the output of the drying part is decreased. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein: If the time point at which the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor reaches the reference temperature is later than the time point at which the temperature reaches the reference temperature in the control temperature table, the output of the drying unit is increased, If a time point at which the temperature sensed by the drying temperature sensor reaches a reference temperature is earlier than a time point at which the temperature reaches the reference temperature in the control temperature table, the output of the drying part is reduced.

9. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: Also included is an outer tub for accommodating the drum.

10. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The drying part includes an induction heater that heats the drum during the drying.

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