Clothes dryer and method for controlling the same

Abstract

A dryer according to one aspect disclosed herein includes: a body having an opening for introducing items to be dried; a drum provided inside the body to accommodate the items to be dried; a door for opening or closing the opening; an input device that receives a user's selection of a dehumidification mode and outputs a control signal; a heat exchanger for heating air supplied to the drum; a fan that forms an airflow along a flow path extending from the outside of the body via the heat exchanger to the drum; and a control unit for controlling the fan in response to the control signal received from the input device, causing air to flow in from the outside of the body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to clothes dryers, and more specifically, to clothes dryers used for dehumidifying the air outside the dryer in addition to drying items to be dried. Background Technology

[0002] A clothes dryer is a device that dries clothes (hereinafter referred to as items to be dried) by rotating a drum that contains the items to be dried and supplying hot air into the drum.

[0003] Existing dryers are installed and used in separate bathrooms or utility rooms within a house. However, these bathrooms or utility rooms often lack windows and are small and cramped, resulting in poor ventilation. When the humidity in these spaces is high, the dryers installed there are more likely to corrode, creating an unpleasant experience for users entering and exiting the space. While it's possible to install an additional dehumidifier in the space where the dryer is located, this is inefficient in terms of cost and space utilization.

[0004] Meanwhile, heat pump dryers can use refrigerant circulation to dry items. Although the basic function of a dryer is to dry items, by properly utilizing the characteristics of refrigerant circulation, the above problems can be solved all at once. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides a clothes dryer that, in addition to drying items, can effectively dehumidify the air outside the dryer.

[0007] Technical solution

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a clothes dryer includes: a body having an opening for an item to be dried to enter through; a drum disposed inside the body to receive the item entering through the opening; a door for opening or closing the opening; an input device configured to receive an input for executing a dehumidification mode and output a control signal corresponding to the received input; a heat exchanger for heating air supplied to the drum; a fan for forming an airflow along a fluid path from the outside of the body via the heat exchanger to the drum; and a controller configured to control the fan to draw air from the outside of the body to flow along the fluid path in response to the control signal received from the input device.

[0009] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a door sensor configured to detect the open / closed state of the door and output a door open signal or a door closed signal in response to the detected door state. The controller may control the fan based on the door open signal or door closed signal received from the door open / close sensor.

[0010] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a door opening device for opening the door, and the controller may control the door opening device in response to a control signal received from the input device.

[0011] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a dehumidification unit comprising a first fluid path guiding air introduced from outside the body to a heat exchanger and a second fluid path guiding air discharged from the drum to the heat exchanger.

[0012] In one embodiment, the dehumidification unit further includes: a fluid path guide providing a first fluid path at a first position or a second fluid path at a second position; and a fluid path position detection sensor configured to detect the position of the fluid path guide and output a fluid path position detection signal to detect the position of the fluid path guide, and the controller can control the fan based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor.

[0013] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a fluid path position switching device configured to move a fluid path guide from a first position to a second position or from a second position to a first position, and the controller may control the fluid path position switching device in response to a control signal received from an input device.

[0014] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a display device for displaying operating information of the dryer, and the controller may control the display device to display information about the status of the detected door based on a door open signal or door close signal received from a door sensor.

[0015] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a motor that provides power to rotate the drum, and the controller may control the motor to rotate the drum in response to a control signal received from an input device.

[0016] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include a motor current sensor that outputs a motor current signal corresponding to the current applied to the motor, and the controller may control the motor to stop the rotation of the drum based on the motor current signal received from the motor current sensor.

[0017] In one embodiment, the dryer may further include communication circuitry for communicating with an external server, and the controller may receive remote control commands from the external server in response to control signals received from the input device.

[0018] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling a clothes dryer includes: a main body having an opening for an item to be dried to enter through it; a drum disposed inside the main body for receiving the item to be dried through the opening; a door for opening or closing the opening; a heat exchanger for heating air supplied to the drum; a fan for forming an airflow along a fluid path from the outside of the main body via the heat exchanger to the drum; and an input device for receiving input for operating the clothes dryer, the method including: receiving an input for executing a dehumidification mode via the input device and outputting a control signal corresponding to the received input; and controlling the fan via a controller to introduce air from the outside of the main body to flow along the fluid path in response to the control signal received from the input device.

[0019] The dryer may further include a door sensor, the method further including detecting the open / closed state of the door via the door sensor, and outputting a door open signal or a door closed signal in response to the detected door state, the method further including controlling the fan by a controller based on the door open signal or door closed signal received from the door sensor.

[0020] The dryer may further include a door opening device for opening the door, and the method may further include controlling the door opening device in response to a control signal received from an input device.

[0021] The dryer may further include a dehumidification unit comprising a first fluid path that guides air introduced from outside the body to a heat exchanger and a second fluid path that guides air discharged from the drum to the heat exchanger.

[0022] The dehumidification unit may further include a fluid path guide that provides a first fluid path at a first position or a second fluid path at a second position; and a fluid path position detection sensor configured to detect the position of the fluid path guide and output a fluid path position detection signal in response to the detected position of the fluid path guide, and fan control further includes controlling the fan based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor.

[0023] The dryer may further include a fluid path position switching device configured to move a fluid path guide from a first position to a second position or from a second position to a first position. The method may include controlling the fluid path position switching device in response to a control signal received from an input device.

[0024] The dryer may further include a display device for displaying operating information of the dryer, the method of which may include controlling the display device to display information about the detection status of the door based on a door open signal or a door close signal received from a door sensor.

[0025] The dryer may further include a motor that provides power to rotate the drum, and the method may include controlling the motor to rotate the drum in response to a control signal received from an input device.

[0026] The dryer may further include a motor current sensor that outputs a motor current signal corresponding to the current applied to the motor, and the method may include controlling the motor to stop the rotation of the drum based on the motor current signal received from the motor current sensor.

[0027] The dryer may further include communication circuitry for communicating with an external server, and the method may include receiving remote control commands from the external server in response to control signals received from an input device.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] According to this disclosure, in addition to drying items, the dryer also dehumidifies the outside air, thus eliminating the need to install an additional dehumidifier in the space where the dryer is located.

[0030] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, by testing appropriate conditions for performing the dehumidification function, the dryer can have improved dehumidification performance. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is an external view of a dryer according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 A clothes dryer with a dehumidification unit installed in it is shown according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a side sectional view of a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a side sectional view of a clothes dryer in one embodiment, wherein a dehumidification unit is installed.

[0035] Figure 5 The base of a dryer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 The dehumidification unit is shown.

[0037] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the dehumidification unit.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a plan view of the dehumidification unit in which the guide is located in the first position.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a plan view of the dehumidification unit in which the guide is located in the second position.

[0040] Figure 10 This is a control block diagram of a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 12 and Figure 13 It's a flowchart, used to describe things in more detail. Figure 11 The flowchart. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. Not all elements will be described in the embodiments of this disclosure, and descriptions of content well-known in the art or overlapping content in the embodiments will be omitted. The term "unit, module, component, or block" can refer to content implemented in software or hardware, and multiple units, modules, components, or blocks can be integrated into a single component, or the unit, module, component, or block may include multiple components, depending on the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0044] To be further understood, the term "connection" or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections, with indirect connections including connections on wireless communication networks.

[0045] The terms “including (or including...)” or “comprise (or contain...)” are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unlisted elements or method steps unless otherwise stated.

[0046] Throughout the instruction manual, when it is said that a component is "on" another component, it means not only that the component is located near the other component, but also that a third component exists between the two components.

[0047] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another region, layer, or part.

[0048] It should be understood that the singular forms “one” and “the” include the plural, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0049] The reference numerals used for method steps are for convenience of explanation only and are not intended to restrict the order of steps. Therefore, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the order of writing may be implemented in other ways.

[0050] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The dryer 1 according to the present disclosure can be used for drying and / or processing clothes, shoes, miscellaneous items, etc.

[0051] According to this disclosure, by testing appropriate conditions for performing the dehumidification function, the dryer can have improved dehumidification performance. Figure 1 This is an external view of a dryer according to one embodiment. Figure 2 A clothes dryer according to one embodiment, wherein a dehumidification unit is installed, is shown. Figure 3 This is a side sectional view of a dryer according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a side sectional view of a clothes dryer in one embodiment, wherein a dehumidification unit is installed.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 The direction along the X-axis can be defined as the front-back direction, the direction along the Y-axis can be defined as the left-right direction, and the direction along the Z-axis can be defined as the up-down direction. The terms "front-back direction," "left-right direction," and "up-down direction," as used herein, are defined with respect to the accompanying drawings, but these terms do not necessarily limit the shape and position of the individual components.

[0053] Reference Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a clothes dryer 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may include a front panel 11, a top panel 12, a side panel 13, a rear panel 14, and a bottom panel 15, which may be formed in a nearly rectangular shape. The main body 10 may constitute the main frame of the clothes dryer 1.

[0054] A condensate reservoir 16 can be arranged in the main body 10. Specifically, the condensate reservoir 16 can be arranged in the upper part of the front panel 11 of the main body 10. The condensate reservoir 16 can store condensate generated during the refrigerant circulation operation, which will be described later.

[0055] An input device 17 for operating the dryer can be provided on the main body 10. Specifically, the input device 17 can be arranged on the upper part of the front panel 11 of the main body 10. The input device 17 may include at least one of a dial switch 17a, a display device 17b, and a button 17c. The dial switch 17a can be arranged to allow the user to select the mode of the dryer 1 by grasping and rotating the adjustable switch 17a. The display device 17b can be arranged to display operation information including the operating status of the dryer 1 and / or the user's operation status. The display device 17b may have a capacitive touch display structure and can be arranged to allow the user to input various commands by touch. The buttons 17c can be arranged to allow the user to select the mode of the dryer 1 by pressing them. However, it is not limited to this, and various operation methods are possible.

[0056] In addition to the above-mentioned operational information, the display device 17b can display information on whether the dehumidification mode is available. For example, the display device 17b can be controlled based on the received door open or close signal 410 (see...). Figure 10The display device 17b can be controlled to display information about the door's open or closed status based on the installation signal received from the unit sensor 420. Furthermore, when the dehumidification unit 100 is installed, the display device 17b can be controlled to display information about the position status of the fluid path guide 230 based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor 430. In summary, the display device 17b can notify the user whether an open fluid path has been formed, i.e., whether the dehumidification mode is available.

[0057] The main body 10 may include a base 60. The base 60 may be disposed at the bottom of the main body 10 to form a base plate 15. Legs 19 may be provided on the base plate 10 to support the main body 10.

[0058] The dryer 1 may include a drum 20 arranged to receive items to be dried (also simply referred to as items). The drum 20 may include an inlet through which items are fed. The drum 20 is rotatably arranged within the body 10.

[0059] The dryer 1 may include a drive that rotates the drum 20. (See reference...) Figure 5 The driver may include a drive motor 31 mounted on a base 60, a pulley 32 rotated by the drive motor 31, and a belt (not shown) connecting the pulley 32 to the roller 20 to transmit the power of the drive motor 31 to the roller 20.

[0060] Meanwhile, in one embodiment, the dryer 1 can draw in humid outside air when the door 30 is open and dehumidify the outside space by discharging air dried by refrigerant circulation through the heat exchanger 70. In this case, an open fluid path can be formed when the door 30 of the dryer 1 is open. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the dryer 1 may further include a dehumidification unit 100, which can also form an open fluid path even when the door 30 is closed. (See reference...) Figures 2 to 4 The description further includes a clothes dryer 1 with a dehumidification unit 100.

[0061] Figure 2 A clothes dryer according to one embodiment, wherein a dehumidification unit is installed, is shown. (See reference...) Figure 5The dehumidifying unit 100 can be detachably installed in the dryer 1. The dehumidifying unit 100 can be installed into the body 10 through a second opening 65 arranged on the front panel of the body 10. Furthermore, instead of the filter unit 50, the dehumidifying unit 100 can be installed in the dryer 1. That is, the dehumidifying unit 100 and the filter unit 50 can be provided interchangeably. In other words, the user can install either the dehumidifying unit 100 or the filter unit 50 into the dryer 1 according to the intended function (dehumidifying mode or drying mode). For example, when the filter unit 50 is removed from the body 10, the dehumidifying unit 100 can be detachably installed into the unit receiver 61. The dehumidifying unit 100 can also be detachably installed on the base 60.

[0062] In this disclosure, the dryer 1 is equipped with a fan 80, which forms a fluid path by drawing in humid outside air, forcing the air through a heat exchanger 70 and a drum 20, and then discharging the dry air to the outside of the dryer. Depending on whether a dehumidification unit 100 is installed, the dryer 1 may have different formed fluid paths. This will be referred to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 Provide a detailed description.

[0063] Figure 3 This is a side sectional view of a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0064] Reference Figure 3 The roller 20 may include an inlet 21 and an outlet 22. Air flows into the interior 23 of the roller through the inlet 21 and exits the roller from the interior 23 through the outlet 22. The inlet 21 may be formed on one side of the roller 20, and the outlet 22 may be formed on the other side of the roller 20. Specifically, the inlet 21 may be the rear opening of the roller 20, and the outlet 22 may be the front opening of the roller 20. For example, the front opening of the roller 20 may be the inlet of the roller.

[0065] Hot, dry air can flow into the drum 20 through inlet 21 and dry the items contained within the drum 20. Furthermore, the air containing a large amount of water after the items are dried can exit the drum 20 through outlet 22.

[0066] Multiple lifters 24 can be arranged inside the drum 20. The lifters 24 can lift and lower items so that the items come into contact with hot air as they drift in the space inside the drum 20.

[0067] To allow items to be fed into the roller 20, a first opening (or inlet) 25 may be formed at the front of the body 10, and a door 30 may be installed to open or close the first opening 25. The door 30 may be hinged to one side of the first opening 25 to pivot from that side.

[0068] The base 60 can be positioned at the bottom of the roller 20. (See reference) Figure 5 The heat exchanger 70, compressor 73, expansion device 74, etc., which constitute the refrigerant cycle, can be mounted on the base 60. The fan 80, drive motor 31, pulley 32, etc., can also be mounted on the base 60. The base cover 75 can be arranged above the base 60 to cover the heat exchanger 70, etc. For example, the base cover 75 can form a pipe structure together with the base 60.

[0069] The fan 80 can be mounted on the base 60. The fan 80 can create an airflow path by generating wind. For example, the fan 80 can exhaust air in a radial direction. To this end, the fan 80 may include a centrally located rotating shaft 83 and a plurality of blades 84 formed circumferentially around the rotating shaft 83.

[0070] In one embodiment, when the door 30 is open, the dryer 1 can form an open fluid path. In this case, when the dehumidification mode is executed, the dryer 1 forces humid outside air to flow in through the front opening of the drum 20 and forces the air that has been dried after passing through the heat exchanger 70 and the drum 20 to flow out through the front opening. In this case, it is not necessary for the door 30 to be fully open, and it is sufficient for the door 30 to be opened to the extent that it allows air to pass through a portion of the front opening, rather than being fully closed.

[0071] In this embodiment, in the dryer 1, when the fan 80 is running, an open fluid path is formed to allow air to flow in the direction of front opening -> heat exchanger 70 -> inlet 21 -> drum 20 -> front opening. Humid outside air can be turned into dry air through the formed fluid path and can be discharged into the space where the dryer 1 is installed.

[0072] A refrigerant cycle can be formed in the main body 10 to heat and condense air. The refrigerant can circulate through a series of processes including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. Specifically, the refrigerant cycle may include a heat exchanger 70, a compressor 73, and an expansion device 74. The heat exchanger 70 can exchange heat with the air and may include an evaporator 71 and a condenser 72.

[0073] Compressor 73 compresses the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure state and discharges the refrigerant, which flows into condenser 72. Condenser 72 condenses the compressed refrigerant and radiates heat to the surroundings during the condensation process. Furthermore, expansion device 74 expands the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant condensed by condenser 72 to a low-pressure state. Evaporator 71 evaporates the expanded refrigerant and removes heat from the surroundings during the evaporation process.

[0074] When items are placed into the dryer 1 and the drying mode is activated, the hot, humid air exiting the drum 20 passes through the evaporator 71. Therefore, the hot, humid air exiting the drum 20 can be cooled as it passes through the evaporator 71 and becomes dry air with a low temperature. At this time, condensate can be generated as the hot, humid air cools in the evaporator 71. The condensate can be moved to the condensate reservoir 16 or discharged from the main body 10. Furthermore, the air that becomes dry and cold after passing through the evaporator 71 can pass through the condenser 72. Therefore, the dry, cold air discharged from the evaporator 71 can be heated as it passes through the condenser 72 and becomes hot, dry air. The hot, dry air can flow into the drum 20 through the inlet 21 and dry the items therein. The hot, humid air containing a large amount of water due to the drying of the items can flow out through the outlet 22. The air that has already flowed out can pass through the evaporator 71 again. In summary, the air circulates within the main body 10 to dry the items contained in the drum 20.

[0075] Typically, in drying mode, a closed fluid path can be formed within the main body 10 of the dryer 1. This closed fluid path can be an airflow path arranged to circulate air within the chamber through the heat exchanger 70 and the drum 20. The closed fluid path may not be connected to the outside of the main body 10 to prevent external air from flowing in or out. That is, the airflow can form a closed loop.

[0076] Additionally, the dryer 1 may further include a dehumidification unit 100 to perform dehumidification not only when the door 30 is open but also when the door 30 is closed. When the dehumidification unit 100 is installed in the dryer 1, dehumidification can be performed through an open fluid path formed by the dehumidification unit 100.

[0077] Figure 4 This is a side sectional view of a clothes dryer according to one embodiment, wherein a dehumidification unit is installed. Figure 5 The base of a dryer according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 6 The dehumidification unit is shown.

[0078] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the dehumidification unit 100 can be arranged on the base 60. Specifically, the dehumidification unit 100 can be detachably mounted on the base 60.

[0079] Specifically, since the dehumidification unit 100 is installed in the dryer 1, the dryer 1 can have an open fluid path even when the door 30 is completely closed. The open fluid path can be an airflow path formed for drawing outside air into the dryer 1, through the heat exchanger 70 and the drum 20, and being exhausted from the dryer 1 (see...). Figure 4(The arrow). Alternatively, the open fluid path can be an airflow path formed to draw outside air into the dryer 1, through the heat exchanger 70, and out of the dryer 1. The two ends of the open fluid path (such as inlet port 121 and outlet port 122, which will be described later) are connected to the outside of the body 10, forming an open loop of airflow.

[0080] When Figure 3 When the filter unit 50 is removed and the dehumidification unit 100 is installed in the dryer 1, the closed fluid path can be switched to an open fluid path even when the door 30 is completely closed. Therefore, the dryer 1 can perform dehumidification operation (dehumidification mode). That is, the dryer 1 can switch from drying mode to dehumidification mode.

[0081] A dehumidification unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described in detail.

[0082] Reference Figure 6 A dehumidification unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body 110. The body 110 may be provided in a substantially box-like form. The dehumidification unit 100 may include an inlet port 121 and an outlet port 122. The inlet port 121 and the outlet port 122 may be arranged on the front side of the body 110. The inlet port 121 may be arranged to allow air to pass through a second opening 65 (see...). Figure 2 Air flows in from the outside of the main body 10. The outlet port 122 can be arranged to allow air to flow out of the main body 10 through the second opening 65. Specifically, humid outside air can be drawn into the dryer 1 through the inlet port 121, and dry hot air can be discharged from the inside of the dryer 1 to the outside through the outlet port 122.

[0083] The outlet port 122 can be arranged next to the inlet port 121. Specifically, the inlet port 121 and the outlet port 122 can be arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The inlet port 121 and the outlet port 122 can be located on the same plane. In this disclosure, when the dryer 1 is viewed from the front, the outlet port 122 can be arranged on the left-hand side, and the inlet port 121 can be arranged on the right-hand side. This arrangement depends on which side the heat exchanger 70 is located relative to the drum 20 of the dryer 1: when the dryer 1 is viewed from the front, when the heat exchanger 70 is arranged on the right side of the drum 20, the outlet port 122 is arranged closer to the drum 20, and the inlet port 121 is arranged further away from the drum 20, thereby simplifying the fluid path. In other words, in order to ensure a smooth flow of air discharged from the drum 20, it is advantageous to arrange the outlet port 122 closer to the center of the dryer 1 and the inlet port 121 closer to the side of the dryer 1. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, for passage through the first opening 25 (see...) Figure 4The outlet port 122 can be arranged closer to the vertical line of the center of the inlet port 121 than the inlet port 121.

[0084] In this disclosure, the dehumidification unit 100 has a rectangular shape with a wide width W1 and a low height H1, and it is effective to divide the width W1 equally between the inlet port 121 and the outlet port 122. Specifically, the area occupied by the inlet port 121 and the area occupied by the outlet port 122 on the front side of the dehumidification unit 100 are formed to be equal, such that the air inflow rate is equal to the air outflow rate.

[0085] Export 111 (see) Figure 8 The outlet 111 can be arranged on the first side of the main body 110 of the dehumidification unit 100. For example, the outlet 111 can be formed on the rear side of the main body 110. The outlet 111 can guide the outside air introduced through the inlet port 121 to the heat exchanger 70. Specifically, the outlet 111 can be connected to the inlet port 121. The heat exchanger 70 can be arranged behind the outlet 111, and the outlet 111 can be arranged to face the heat exchanger 70. The introduced outside air can be humid air before dehumidification.

[0086] Inlet 112 can be arranged on the second side of the main body 110 of the dehumidification unit 100. For example, inlet 112 can be formed on one side of the main body 110. Although inlet 112 is shown as being formed on the left side of the main body 110, it is not limited thereto. For example, inlet 112 can be formed on the right side of the main body 110 by modifying the air flow path, base structure, etc. In this disclosure, in the structure where the dehumidification unit 100 is arranged on the right side of the drum 20, a smooth flow path can be formed by arranging inlet 112 on the left side of the dehumidification unit 100. Inlet 112 can be connected to outlet port 122, so that the air discharged from the drum 20 is discharged to the outside through outlet port 122. The air discharged from the drum 20 can be dehumidified and heated as it passes through the heat exchanger 70, and this air can be dry hot air discharged through the drum 20. Specifically, when the dryer 1 according to this disclosure is operating in dehumidification mode, the inside of the drum 20 is normally empty, so the dry hot air introduced into the rear of the drum does not actually change in humidity when it is discharged through the inlet of the drum 20.

[0087] The dehumidification unit 100 may further include at least one of an intake filter 140 and an exhaust filter 150. Specifically, the intake filter 140 and the exhaust filter 150 may be detachably installed in the body 110 of the dehumidification unit 100. The intake filter 140 may filter out foreign matter introduced into the dehumidification unit 100 and foreign matter that would otherwise be discharged from the dryer 1.

[0088] The intake filter 140 can be disposed after the inlet port 121. Specifically, it can be disposed at the outlet 111. The intake filter 140 can be detachably mounted in the body 110. A filter track 117 can be disposed in the body 110 to mount the intake filter 140. The intake filter 140 can include a filter frame 141 and a filter 142 mounted on the filter frame 141. The intake filter 140 can filter out foreign matter in the air introduced from the outside of the body 10 through the inlet port 121. Therefore, when outside air is introduced, foreign matter can be prevented from entering the heat exchanger 70. For example, the filter 142 can include at least one of wool material (fabric), PET, and steel material.

[0089] The discharge filter 150 can be arranged downstream of the outlet port 122. Specifically, it can be arranged in the discharge fluid path 180, as described later. The discharge filter 150 can be removably mounted in the body 110. A filter track 118 can be arranged in the body 110 to mount the discharge filter 150. The discharge filter 150 can include a filter frame 151 and a filter 152 mounted on the filter frame 151. The discharge filter 150 can filter out foreign matter contained in the air within the body 110 through the inlet 112. Therefore, when air is discharged to the outside, foreign matter can be prevented from being discharged to the outside. For example, the filter 152 can include at least one of wool material (fabric), PET, and steel.

[0090] Reference Figures 7 to 9 The principle of the dehumidification unit 100 switching from a closed fluid path to an open fluid path or vice versa is further described.

[0091] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the dehumidification unit. Figure 8 This is a plan view of the dehumidification unit where the guide component is located in the first position. Figure 9 This is a plan view of the dehumidification unit in which the guide is located in the second position.

[0092] The dehumidification unit 100 may include a main body 110. The main body 110 may include a main body mounting portion 114 and a mounting protrusion 115 that will be connected to the front cover 120. When the main body mounting portion 114 is connected to the cover mounting portion 125, the mounting protrusion 115 may be disposed in a mounting hole 116.

[0093] The front cover 120 can be attached to the front of the main body 110. The intake filter 140 can be arranged at the rear of the main body 110. A sealing member 190 can be arranged between the main body 110 and the front cover 120.

[0094] Meanwhile, in this disclosure, the dehumidification unit 100 has a rectangular shape with a wide width W2 and a low height H2, and it is effective to divide the width W2 equally between the inlet port 121 and the outlet port 122. Specifically, the area occupied by the inlet port 121 and the area occupied by the outlet port 122 on the front side of the dehumidification unit 200 are formed to be equal, such that the air inflow rate is equal to the air outflow rate.

[0095] The outlet 111 can be arranged on the first side of the main body 110 of the dehumidification unit 100. For example, the outlet 111 can be formed on the rear side of the main body 110. The outlet 111 can guide outside air introduced into the main body 110 through the inlet port 121 to the heat exchanger 70. Specifically, the outlet 111 can be connected to the inlet port 121. The heat exchanger 70 can be arranged behind the outlet 111, and the outlet 111 can be arranged to face the heat exchanger 70. The introduced outside air can be humid air before dehumidification.

[0096] The inlet 112 can be arranged on the second side of the main body 110 of the dehumidification unit 100. For example, the inlet 112 can be formed on one side of the main body 110. Although the inlet 112 is on... Figure 7 The inlet is shown as being formed on the left side of the body 110, but it is not limited thereto and may also be formed on the right side. The inlet 112 may receive air that has passed through the heat exchanger 70. The inlet 112 may be connected to the outlet port 122, allowing the air that has passed through the heat exchanger 70 to be discharged to the outside through the outlet port 122. The air that has passed through the heat exchanger 70 may be dry, hot air generated due to heat exchange and dehumidification with the heat exchanger 70.

[0097] The dehumidification unit 100 may include a fluid path guide 230 provided as rotatable within the body 110.

[0098] The fluid path guide 230 may include a rotating shaft 231 rotatably coupled to the body 110, and the body 110 may include a connecting hole 240 that mates with the rotating shaft 231. When the rotating shaft 231 is inserted into the connecting hole 240, the fluid path guide 230 may rotate to a certain extent. However, it is not limited thereto; in the opposite configuration, the body 110 may include a rotating shaft, and the fluid path guide 230 may include a connecting hole.

[0099] like Figure 8 As shown, the fluid path guide 230 can be located in a first position P1 to separate the inlet fluid path 270 from the outlet fluid path 280. The fluid path guide 230 can form the inlet fluid path 270 by connecting the outlet 111 to the inlet port 121. By connecting the inlet 112 to the outlet port 122, the fluid path guide 230 can form the outlet fluid path 280, which is separated from the inlet fluid path 270.

[0100] The inlet fluid path 270 can extend from the inlet port 121 to the outlet 111. In other words, the inlet fluid path 270 can be the path through which the outlet 111 connects to the inlet port 121. Air introduced into the body 110 through the inlet port 121 can pass through the inlet fluid path 270 and through the outlet 111, and can be supplied to the heat exchanger 70. In other words, air before dehumidification can be conveyed to the heat exchanger 70 along the inlet fluid path 270.

[0101] The outlet fluid path 280 can extend from the inlet 112 to the outlet port 122. In other words, the outlet fluid path 280 can be the path from the inlet 112 to the outlet port 122. Air introduced into the body 110 through the inlet 112 can pass through the outlet fluid path 280 and the outlet port 122, and can move to the outside of the body 10. In other words, dehumidified air dried by passing through the heat exchanger 70 can be discharged from the body 10 along the outlet fluid path 280.

[0102] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the fluid path guide 230 can be located in the second position P2, forming a fluid path 230a by connecting the outlet 111 to the inlet 112. Furthermore, when in the second position P2, the fluid path guide 230 can block the connection between the outlet 111 and the inlet port 121, as well as the connection between the inlet 112 and the outlet port 122. The fluid path 230a can be part of a closed fluid path, performing the same function as the fluid path 50a formed in the filter unit 50.

[0103] The fluid path guide 230 can be arranged to move between a first position P1 and a second position P2. Furthermore, the fluid path guide 230 can be rotatably arranged. Specifically, the fluid path guide 230 can be rotated from the first position P1 to the second position P2. Conversely, the fluid path guide 230 can be rotated from the second position P2 to the first position P1.

[0104] For example, when the fluid path guide 230 is in the first position P1, an open fluid path can be formed in the dryer 1. In this case, both ends of the open fluid path (i.e., inlet port 121 and outlet port 122) can be connected to the outside. For example, when the fluid path guide 230 is in the first position P1, the dryer 1 can perform a dehumidification operation (dehumidification mode). When the fluid path guide 230 is in the second position P2, a closed fluid path can be formed in the dryer 2. For example, when the fluid path guide 230 is in the second position P2, the dryer 1 can perform a drying operation (drying mode). In short, depending on the rotation of the fluid path guide 230, the dehumidification unit 100 can have different operating modes (drying mode or dehumidification mode). Therefore, the dryer 1 can easily switch between a drying mode for drying items and a dehumidification mode for indoor dehumidification.

[0105] Simultaneously, the fluid path guide 230 may include a curved portion 234. The fluid path guide 230 may be curved to a certain extent to smoothly form the inlet fluid path 270 and the outlet fluid path 280. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, when the fluid path guide 230 is in the first position P1, the fluid path guide 230 can be used to form a curved portion in the outlet fluid path 280. Furthermore, the fluid path guide 230 can be curved towards the rear of the body 110 to extend the inlet fluid path 270. However, it is not limited to this. Because the fluid path guide 230 includes the curved portion 234, air can flow in or out smoothly.

[0106] Simultaneously, the fluid path guide 230 can rotate automatically. The dehumidification unit 100 includes a fluid path position detection sensor 430 (see...). Figure 10 The controller 400 can control the fan 80 based on a position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor 430. For example, the position switching device could be a rotary motor. Furthermore, before controlling the fan 80, the controller 400 can form an open fluid path by moving the fluid path guide 230 from a second position P2 to a first position P1 based on the position detection signal. For example, when connected to a rotary motor, the fluid path guide 230 can receive rotational force.

[0107] Specifically, the fluid path guide 230 can automatically switch the fluid path formed in the dryer 1 from a closed fluid path to an open fluid path. In other words, when the fluid path guide 230 moves from the second position P2 to the first position P1, the dryer 1 can switch from a drying mode to a dehumidifying mode. Furthermore, the fluid path guide 230 can switch the fluid path formed in the dryer 1 from an open fluid path to a closed fluid path. The dehumidifying unit 100 can form an open fluid path by providing a first fluid path that guides air introduced from outside the main body 10 to the heat exchanger 70. Furthermore, the dehumidifying unit 100 can form a closed fluid path by providing a second fluid path that guides air discharged from the drum 20 to the heat exchanger 70. The fluid path guide 230 can be located at the first position P1 of the dehumidifying unit 100 to provide the first fluid path, or at the second position P2 to provide the second fluid path. For example, when the fluid path guide 230 moves from the first position P1 to the second position P2, the dryer 1 can switch from a dehumidifying mode to a drying mode. In other words, when the fluid path guide 230 rotates automatically, the user can easily select the drying mode or the dehumidification mode.

[0108] Therefore, even if the dehumidification unit 100 is installed in the dryer 1, the drying mode can still be executed when the fluid path guide 230 is in the second position P2. In other words, to execute the drying mode, it is not necessary to remove the dehumidification unit 100 from the dryer 1 and then reinstall the filter unit 50 back into the dryer 1. In other words, the hassle of installing and / or attaching additional components (e.g., the filter unit 50) is eliminated. As a result, according to this disclosure, the dryer 1 can automatically switch the fluid path, allowing the user to freely select either the drying mode or the dehumidification mode.

[0109] Figure 10 This is a control block diagram of a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0110] In one embodiment, before executing the dehumidification mode, the dryer 1 uses detection signals from the input device 17, the door open / close sensor 410, the unit sensor 420, and the fluid path position detection sensor 430.

[0111] Input device 17 allows the user to select a mode by rotating a dial, pressing buttons, or touching a display. In this embodiment, input device 17 can provide an interface for selecting a drying mode or a dehumidification mode. When a user selects a drying mode or a dehumidification mode, input device 17 sends a corresponding control signal to controller 400.

[0112] The door open / close sensor 410 includes a switch (not shown) that includes at least one contact for passing or blocking electrical signals. For example, the switch can be a leaded switch or a microswitch, but is not limited to these, as long as it can pass or block electrical signals such as pulse waves. When the door 30 is open, the switch contacts can be in an open state, and when the door 30 is closed, the switch contacts can be in a short-circuit state, i.e., a conductive state. As a result, the controller 400 can determine whether the door 30 is open or closed based on the state of the contacts, and can determine that the door 30 is open, which is sufficient to execute the dehumidification mode. The door open / close sensor 410 can be arranged anywhere in the body 10, as long as that location can contact a portion of the door 30.

[0113] The unit sensor 420 can detect the installation of the filter unit 50 or the dehumidification unit 100. Different identification mechanisms can be used for the filter unit 50 and the dehumidification unit 100, and these mechanisms can be located in different positions. For example, a first identifier (not shown) for detecting the installation of the filter unit 50 can be arranged on the upper right side of the front cover 52, and a second identifier (not shown) for detecting the installation of the dehumidification unit 100 can be arranged on the upper left side of the front cover 120. Therefore, the dryer 1 can easily identify whether the filter unit 50 and / or the dehumidification unit 100 are installed based on the detected location.

[0114] The fluid path position detection sensor 430 can detect the position of the fluid path guide 230. Specifically, the fluid path position detection sensor 430 can distinguish between the fluid path guide 230 being in a first position P1 and the fluid path guide 230 being in a second position P2. For example, the fluid path position detection sensor 430 can detect the position of the fluid path guide 230 by detecting the two side ends 232 and 233 of the fluid path guide 230 (see...). Figure 8 The position of the fluid path guide 230 can be used to distinguish between the first position P1 and the second position P2. Therefore, when the dehumidification unit 100 is installed, the controller 400 can determine whether the fluid path in the dryer 1 is open or closed. Consequently, the controller 400 can determine whether the dryer 1 is in an appropriate state for executing the dehumidification mode via the guide sensor 230.

[0115] Display device 17b displays the operating status and / or user operation status of dryer 1.

[0116] The controller 400 may include a memory (not shown) for storing programs and data for controlling the operation of the dryer 1, and a processor (not shown) for generating control signals for controlling the operation of the dryer 1 based on the programs and data stored in the memory.

[0117] When receiving a command regarding the dehumidification mode via input device 17, controller 400 determines whether outside air is allowed to flow in via the fluid path formed by fan 80. For example, controller 400 can determine that door 30 is open via door open / close sensor 410 and can generate a control signal to form an open fluid path to execute dehumidification mode. Furthermore, when dehumidification unit 100 is installed in dryer 1 and door 30 is closed, controller 400 can determine whether dehumidification unit 100 has formed an open fluid path via fluid path position detection sensor 430. In this case, controller 400 can generate a control signal to execute dehumidification mode.

[0118] When the controller 400 determines that an open fluid path has been formed in the dryer 1 and a dehumidification mode can be executed, the controller 400 can control the operation of the drum 20, the heat exchanger 70 and / or the fan 80.

[0119] When the dehumidification mode is executed, the controller 400 sends signals to the drive motor 31 (see...). Figure 5 An electric current is supplied to control the rotation of the drum 20. As the drum rotates, the temperature inside the drum 20 rises, thereby enhancing the dehumidification effect.

[0120] The fan 80 can share the driving force supplied to the motor 31 of the roller 20 and can rotate as the roller 20 rotates. Alternatively, the fan 80 can be arranged to rotate separately from the roller 20 by adding a device such as an additional clutch (not shown) to the base 60 or by arranging multiple motors 31.

[0121] When dehumidifying mode is activated, the controller 400 can dehumidify the humid outside air through the refrigerant circulation of the heat exchanger 70. In this case, the controller 400 can control the compressor 73 (see...). Figure 5 The speed of the roller 20 is adjusted to control the temperature within the roller.

[0122] When operating in dehumidification mode, the controller 400 can control the compressor 73 to maintain a lower temperature in the drum 20 compared to the drying mode. For example, the compressor 73 can be controlled to maintain a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius in drying mode and 40 degrees Celsius in dehumidification mode. The controller 400 can maintain the temperature in the drum 20 at a relatively low value so that the external temperature of the dryer 1 does not deviate from room temperature as much as possible. This temperature is merely an example and can be set to various values ​​depending on the external environment (temperature or humidity) of the dryer 1.

[0123] Furthermore, when executing dehumidification mode, the controller 400 can control the motor 31 so that the fan 80 has a lower speed than in drying mode. For example, the magnitude of the current applied to the motor 31 can be controlled so that the motor 31 reaches a first speed in drying mode and a second speed in dehumidification mode. As described above, since the drum 20 and the fan 80 share the driving force from the motor 31 (the drive source of the fan 80), the speed of the drum 20 can depend on the speed of the fan 80.

[0124] The controller 400 can control the rotational speed of each of the drum 20 and the fan 80 to a lower value than in drying mode, thereby preventing the external temperature from deviating from room temperature. Specifically, as the rotational speed of the drum 20 increases, the temperature inside the drum 20 rises, and the air discharged from the dryer 1 can have a temperature value higher than room temperature. Furthermore, as the rotational speed of the fan 80 increases, the amount of air discharged through the fluid path increases, resulting in an increase in the external temperature of the dryer 1.

[0125] Therefore, when the dehumidification mode is executed, the controller 400 controls the motor 31 so that the speed of the motor 31 is lower than that in the drying mode. This condition is merely an example and can be set to various values ​​depending on the external environment (temperature or humidity) of the dryer 1.

[0126] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a clothes dryer according to one embodiment.

[0127] In step 1101, controller 400 receives a dehumidification mode. Input device 17 receives input from the user for executing the dehumidification mode and sends a control signal for the dehumidification mode to controller 400. In this case, controller 400 does not execute the dehumidification mode immediately upon receiving the control signal, but rather executes the dehumidification mode after a series of determining processes.

[0128] In step 1102, controller 400 determines whether it is appropriate to execute the dehumidification mode. In this case, the appropriate condition for executing the dehumidification mode is when an open fluid path is formed in the dryer 1, rather than a closed fluid path, to allow outside air to pass through the dryer 1 and return to the outside. The formed open fluid path includes the open fluid path formed when door 30 is open and the open fluid path formed according to the position of the fluid path guide 230 of the dehumidification unit 100. This will be explained by describing... Figure 12 and Figure 13 To describe in more detail whether an open fluid path is formed.

[0129] When it is determined in 1103 that outside air can be introduced through a fluid path, the controller 400 generates a control signal in 1104 to operate the fan 80 and compressor 73 to execute the dehumidification mode, and sends the control signal to the fan 80 and compressor 73 to execute the dehumidification mode in 1105. When the input device 17 receives a selection to execute the dehumidification mode from the user, in response to receiving a signal to operate the dehumidification mode from the input device 17, the controller 400 controls the fan 80 to introduce air from outside the main body 10. In this case, an open fluid path that allows air to flow in from the outside has been formed in the dryer 1, and the open fluid path can be formed by opening the door 30 or according to the position of the fluid path guide 230 of the dehumidification unit 100.

[0130] When controller 400 determines in 1103 that it is impossible to introduce outside air through the fluid path, controller 400 may generate a notification signal in 1106 to inform the user that the dehumidification mode is unavailable. Specifically, controller 400 generates a notification signal, outputs an alarm sound through a speaker (not shown), and informs the user that the dehumidification mode has not been executed. Furthermore, controller 400 generates a notification signal and also informs the user that the dehumidification mode has not been executed by displaying a warning on display device 17b.

[0131] although Figure 11 Not shown, but when there are items to be dried in the drum 20, the controller 400 can control the dryer 1 not to execute the dehumidification mode. The dryer 1 includes a motor that delivers power to rotate the drum 20, and the controller 400 controls the motor to rotate the drum 20 in response to an operation signal received from the input device 17. In this case, the dryer 1 may include a motor current sensor (not shown) that outputs a motor current signal corresponding to the current applied to the motor. The controller 400 can control the motor to stop the rotation of the drum 20 based on the motor current signal received from the motor current sensor. In other words, when the drum 20 contains items to be dried, the controller 400 does not generate a control signal to drive the fan 80. When there are items in the drum 20, moisture contained in the outside air can permeate into the items. Furthermore, when the moisture evaporated from the items is supplied back to the outside, this results in low dehumidification efficiency. Therefore, when the current flowing to motor 31 exceeds the predetermined current magnitude (the current applied when there is nothing in the drum), controller 400 can pause the dehumidification mode even when an open fluid path is formed by satisfying the conditions in 1103.

[0132] The above description indicates that an open fluid path can be formed by opening door 30 or through dehumidification unit 100. At this point, the controller 400 can determine whether an open fluid path has been formed under different conditions, whether the dehumidification unit 100 is installed or not. Reference will now be made to... Figures 12 to 13 This will be described in detail.

[0133] Figure 12 and Figure 13 It is used for more detailed description Figure 11 The flowchart of the flowchart.

[0134] Reference Figure 12 The controller 400 receives a selection command for the dehumidification mode in 1201 and determines whether the door 30 is open in 1202.

[0135] The controller 400 can determine whether the door 30 is open or closed based on the electrical signal emitted from the door open / close sensor 410.

[0136] In one embodiment, the dryer 1 may further include a door open / close sensor that outputs a door open or closed signal to detect the open or closed state of the door. The controller 400 may control the fan 80 based on the door open / close signal received from the door open / close sensor 410. The door open / close sensor 410 is equipped with a switch (not shown) that includes at least one contact to pass or block an electrical signal. The door open / close signal is generated when the door 30 is open and the switch contact is in the open state, or when the door 30 is closed and the switch contact is in a short-circuit state, i.e., a conductive state.

[0137] When the door 30 is open, the controller 400 can determine that air is flowing in and out through the front opening of the roller 20, forming an open fluid path. When the door 30 is closed, the controller 400 can determine that air is not flowing in and out, forming a closed fluid path.

[0138] In 1203, when door 30 is opened, controller 400 controls the execution of dehumidification mode through the open fluid path.

[0139] When door 30 is closed, controller 400 determines that dehumidification mode is unavailable and does not execute dehumidification mode. A door opening device (not shown) is installed in dryer 1 to allow door 30 to open even without user pulling force, and controller 400 can control door 30 to open automatically to execute dehumidification mode. Therefore, dryer 1 can execute dehumidification mode. Controller 400 can control the door opening device in response to an operation signal received from input device 17. For example, in response to a signal from input device 17 to operate dehumidification mode, controller 400 can determine that door 30 is closed when the switch contacts are in a short-circuit state before controlling fan 80, and then can control the door opening device. Therefore, dryer 1 can switch from a closed fluid path to an open fluid path.

[0140] Reference Figure 13The controller 400 receives a command for selecting the dehumidification mode in 1301 and detects the installation of the dehumidification unit 100 in 1302. When it is detected that the dehumidification unit 100 is not installed in the dryer 1 but the filter unit 50 is installed, based on the fact that it is impossible to form an open fluid path according to the dehumidification unit 100, the controller 400 can execute the process based on whether the door 30 is open (in Figure 12 (in 1202).

[0141] In the following description, it is assumed that the dehumidification unit 100 is installed in the dryer 1.

[0142] In step 1303, the controller 400 determines whether the fluid path guide 230 of the dehumidification unit 100 is in an open fluid path state. The controller 400 can determine whether an open fluid path has been formed based on the detection result of the fluid path position detection sensor 430. Specifically, the controller 400 can determine whether an open or closed fluid path has been formed based on the position of the fluid path guide 230.

[0143] In 1304, when the dehumidification unit 100 forms an open fluid path, the controller 400 controls the execution of a dehumidification mode through the open fluid path. In this case, the fluid path guide 230 arranged in the dehumidification unit 100 can be in a first position P1.

[0144] When the dehumidification unit 100 forms a closed fluid path, the controller 400 determines that the dehumidification mode is unavailable and does not execute the dehumidification mode. In this case, at 1305, the controller 400 can control the fluid path guide 230 to be moved from the second position P2 to the first position P1. Therefore, the dehumidification unit 100 switches from a closed fluid path to having an open fluid path, and the dryer 1 can execute the dehumidification of the dehumidification unit 100.

[0145] The controller 400 can control the fan 80 based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor 430. The controller 400 can control the fluid path position switching device in response to the operation signal received from the input device 17.

[0146] The fluid path position detection sensor 430 detects the position (first position or second position) of the fluid path guide 230, generates a position detection signal, and provides the position detection signal to the controller 400. When the controller 400 receives a position detection signal indicating that the fluid path guide 230 is in the first position P1, it can control the fan 80 to execute the dehumidification mode.

[0147] When the controller receives a position detection signal indicating that the fluid path guide 230 is in the second position P2, the controller 400 can move the fluid path guide 230 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 before controlling the fan 80 to form an open fluid path. Thereafter, when the fluid path guide 230 moves to the first position P1, the controller 400 can control the fan 80 to execute a dehumidification mode. According to this disclosure, in addition to effectively performing the dehumidification function by determining the conditions for executing the dehumidification mode, the dryer 1 can also utilize user equipment (not shown) and external devices (not shown) to achieve better dehumidification efficiency and convenience.

[0148] In one embodiment, the dryer 1 may include a communication device (not shown) for sending or receiving data to or from user devices and external devices (e.g., air conditioners, washing machines, refrigerators, etc.). Specifically, the dryer 1 may include a communication circuit for communicating with an external server, and the external server may send or receive data to or from user devices and external devices. For example, a user may remotely control the dryer 1 through a user device.

[0149] The communication device may include a local wireless communication module capable of wirelessly exchanging data with external devices over a relatively short range. The local wireless communication module may perform communication based on communication standards such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.

[0150] In one embodiment, the dryer 1 can receive temperature and humidity information from a user device and / or an external device. In this case, the dryer 1 can receive the humidity information and display an indication of a recommended dehumidification mode on the display device 17b. The indication of the recommended dehumidification mode can notify the user, through a user device other than the display device 17b provided in the dryer 1, that dehumidification is needed around the dryer 1. The temperature or humidity information can be provided by a sensor provided in the dryer 1 itself, or by using data provided from an external device.

[0151] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, when the dehumidification mode is executed while the door 30 is open, the dryer 1 can allow remote commands for the dehumidification mode from a user device. Normally, the dryer 1 only allows remote control commands when the door 30 is closed for safety. However, when the dryer 1 is executing the dehumidification mode, considering exceptional circumstances, the controller 400 can allow remote control commands via the user device even when the door 30 is open. When the dehumidification mode is executed in response to an operation signal received from the input device 17b, and a command is input from the user, the dryer 1 operates the drum 20, heat exchanger 70, compressor 73, and fan 80 until a predetermined time has elapsed, regardless of the external humidity. According to an embodiment, even while the dehumidification mode is being executed, the user can stop the dehumidification mode at any time by sending a remote control command to the dryer 1 via the user device.

[0152] Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in the form of a recording medium for storing instructions to be executed by a computer. The instructions can be stored as program code, and when executed by a processor, can generate program modules to perform the operations described in the embodiments of this disclosure. The recording medium can correspond to a computer-readable recording medium.

[0153] Computer-readable recording media include any type of recording medium on which data that can be subsequently read by a computer is stored. For example, it can be read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage device, etc.

[0154] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure can be implemented in other forms than those described above without altering the technical concept or essential characteristics. The above embodiments are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A clothes dryer, comprising: The main body has an opening through which the items to be dried enter; A roller is arranged inside the main body and configured to receive the article that enters through the opening; A door, configured to open or close the opening; The input device is configured to receive an input indicating that a dehumidification mode is to be executed, and to output a control signal corresponding to the received input. A heat exchanger configured to heat the air supplied to the drum; A fan is configured to form an airflow along a fluid path from the outside of the body through the heat exchanger to the drum; The controller is configured to control the fan to draw air from the outside of the body to flow along the fluid path in response to the control signal received from the input device. as well as The dehumidification unit includes a first fluid path guiding air introduced from outside the main body to the heat exchanger and a second fluid path guiding air discharged from the drum to the heat exchanger. The dehumidification unit includes, in addition to the first fluid path, an outlet fluid path discharging dehumidified air, dried by passing through the heat exchanger, from the main body. The dehumidification unit further includes a fluid path guide configured to provide the first fluid path and the outlet fluid path at a first position, or to provide the second fluid path at a second position.

2. The dryer of claim 1, further comprising a door sensor configured to detect the open / closed state of the door and, in response to the detected state of the door, output a door open signal or a door closed signal. The controller is configured to control the fan based on a door open signal or a door close signal received from the door sensor.

3. The dryer according to claim 1, further comprising a door opening device configured to open the door. The controller is configured to control the door opening device in response to the control signal received from the input device.

4. The dryer of claim 1, wherein the dehumidification unit further comprises a fluid path position detection sensor, the fluid path position detection sensor being configured to detect the position of the fluid path guide and output a fluid path position detection signal in response to the detected position of the fluid path guide. wherein The controller is configured to control the fan based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor.

5. The dryer according to claim 4, further comprising a fluid path position switching device, the fluid path position switching device being configured to move the fluid path guide from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position. The controller is configured to control the fluid path position switching device in response to the control signal received from the input device.

6. The clothes dryer according to claim 2, further comprising a display device configured to display operating information of the clothes dryer. The controller is configured to control the display device to display information about the detected state of the door based on a door open signal or a door close signal received from the door sensor.

7. The dryer of claim 1, further comprising a motor configured to provide power to rotate the drum. The controller is configured to control the motor to rotate the drum in response to the control signal received from the input device.

8. The dryer of claim 7, further comprising a motor current sensor configured to output a motor current signal corresponding to the current applied to the motor. The controller is configured to control the motor to stop the rotation of the drum based on the motor current signal received from the motor current sensor.

9. The dryer of claim 1, further comprising a communication circuit configured to communicate with an external server. The controller is configured to receive remote control commands from the external server in response to the control signals received from the input device.

10. A method for controlling a clothes dryer, the clothes dryer comprising: The main body has an opening through which the items to be dried enter; A drum is arranged inside the main body to accommodate the items to be dried that enter through the opening; Door, open or close the opening; A heat exchanger heats the air supplied to the drum; A fan forms an airflow along a fluid path from the outside of the main body through the heat exchanger to the drum; An input device that receives input for operating the dryer; The dehumidification unit includes a first fluid path guiding air introduced from outside the body to the heat exchanger and a second fluid path guiding air discharged from the drum to the heat exchanger, wherein the dehumidification unit, in addition to including the first fluid path, also includes an outlet fluid path for discharging dehumidified air, dried by passing through the heat exchanger, from the body, and wherein the dehumidification unit further includes a fluid path guide configured to provide the first fluid path and the outlet fluid path at a first position, or to provide the second fluid path at a second position, the method comprising: The input device receives an input request to execute the dehumidification mode and outputs a control signal corresponding to the received input. as well as In response to the control signal received from the input device, the controller controls the fan to introduce air from outside the body so that it flows along the fluid path.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The dryer further includes a door sensor, and the method further includes: The door sensor detects the open / closed state of the door and outputs a door open signal or a door closed signal in response to the detected door state; and The controller controls the fan based on the door open signal or the door close signal received from the door sensor.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the dryer further includes a door opening device configured to open the door, and the method further includes: The door opening device is controlled in response to the control signal received from the input device.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the dehumidification unit further comprises a fluid path position detection sensor configured to detect the position of the fluid path guide and output a fluid path position detection signal in response to the detected position of the fluid path guide. Controlling the fan further includes controlling the fan based on the position detection signal received from the fluid path position detection sensor.

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