Grain dryer using heat pump hybrid heat source

Abstract

The present invention relates to a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source that can efficiently dry grains and secure high-quality dried grains through a hybrid drying method that applies a first drying means using fossil fuels and a second drying means using a heat pump together. More specifically, the invention relates to a grain dryer comprising a drying means, wherein the drying means comprises a first drying means which is a fuel heater and a second drying means which is a heat pump. During drying, at least one of the first drying means and the second drying means is used to heat to a set temperature. When heated to the set temperature, a first heating process is performed to heat to a second temperature which is the set temperature, and when the temperature drops from the second temperature to the first temperature, a second heating process is performed to maintain the second temperature. The first heating process is performed until the grain reaches a set moisture content.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source, and more specifically, to a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source capable of efficiently drying grains and securing high-quality dried grains through a hybrid drying method that applies a first drying means using fossil fuels and a second drying means using a heat pump together. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, grain drying processes primarily utilized burners powered by fossil fuels. However, this traditional method entails the following problems.

[0003] First, existing drying technologies primarily use fossil fuels, resulting in low energy efficiency, significant heat loss during the process, and high energy costs.

[0004] Furthermore, drying processes using fossil fuels have a negative impact on the environment due to high carbon emissions, and therefore, sustainable drying methods are required.

[0005] Furthermore, unstable energy prices—specifically, rising energy prices—cause massive costs to be incurred in drying grains and have a negative impact on agricultural productivity.

[0006] Furthermore, it has been difficult to maintain consistent quality in existing drying processes, and the process control and quality management required for grain drying are involved.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop efficient and environmentally friendly grain drying technology to resolve the aforementioned problems. Prior art literature

[0008] (0001) Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1687692 (December 13, 2016) The problem to be solved

[0009] The technical problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source that can provide a sustainable solution in terms of energy and environment and improve quality control by introducing a hybrid drying system that combines a heat pump and a fuel heater to efficiently perform the drying process.

[0010] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0011] The grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source according to the present invention for achieving the above technical problem comprises a grain dryer including a drying means, wherein the drying means comprises a first drying means which is a fuel heater; and a second drying means which is a heat pump, and is characterized by heating to a set temperature using at least one of the first drying means and the second drying means during drying.

[0012] In addition, when heated to the above-mentioned set temperature, the process proceeds to a first heating process of heating to a second temperature, which is the above-mentioned set temperature, and a second heating process of heating to maintain the above-mentioned second temperature when the temperature drops from the above-mentioned second temperature to the above-mentioned first temperature, and the first heating process proceeds until the set moisture content of the grain is reached.

[0013] In addition, the method is characterized by preheating to the second temperature using the first drying means and the second drying means, then turning off only the second drying means, and when the temperature drops from the second temperature to the first temperature, maintaining the second temperature through ON / OFF control of the second drying means.

[0014] The above embodiments of the present invention are merely some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and various embodiments reflecting the technical features of the present invention can be derived and understood by those skilled in the art based on the detailed description of the present invention to be described below. Effects of the invention

[0015] The present invention, as described above, has the following effects.

[0016] First, the present invention can significantly improve energy efficiency by carrying out the drying process by combining a heat pump and a fuel heater.

[0017] In addition, by utilizing a heat pump drying method, energy can be saved compared to traditional fossil fuel drying methods, and operation is possible regardless of ambient conditions. Furthermore, by significantly reducing carbon emissions, environmental pollution can be mitigated, and sustainable drying of agricultural products and grains can be realized.

[0018] In addition, despite fluctuations in energy prices, the present invention can manage energy costs of the drying process predictably and stably, and can reduce the burden on farms and agricultural productivity.

[0019] In addition, heat pump drying is a low-temperature dehumidifying drying method that minimizes thermal damage to grains compared to conventional thermal dryers, thereby maintaining consistent quality of grains and agricultural products and improving quality control during the drying process, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction.

[0020] In addition, by minimizing the increase in energy costs caused by rising energy prices, the economic feasibility of drying agricultural products and grains can be improved, allowing farms and agricultural producers to reduce energy costs and generate more profit.

[0021] The effects obtainable from the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0022] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing the structure according to one embodiment of the second drying means according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a comparison of the configuration of a conventional grain dryer and a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0023] Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below. In describing the embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions would hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0024] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are intended merely to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by these terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "combined," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, but that components may also be "connected," "combined," or "joined" between each component.

[0025] Generally, a grain dryer is equipment used to reduce the moisture content (water content) of grains and can generally be used in the agricultural sector. Grains can be, for example, rice, barley, wheat, soybeans, sorghum, millet, etc.

[0026] A grain dryer may be configured to include a drying room, an air heating system, temperature control, humidity control, a bucket elevator, a conveying system, and a control panel.

[0027] The drying chamber is the central part of the grain dryer, serving as the space for placing and drying the grain. The drying chamber is typically constructed from durable materials, such as bent galvanized steel sheets for rust prevention, and may house an integrated platform used for drying the grain.

[0028] A grain dryer (hereinafter also referred to as a "dryer") can remove moisture and dry grains using air. To this end, an air heating system may be included inside the drying chamber. The air heating system can efficiently circulate air, heat the air surrounding the grains inside the dryer, and remove moisture. The air heating system according to the present invention may include a fan, a heat pump, a burner, etc.

[0029] Temperature control is a critical factor in grain drying, and the dryer can efficiently dry grains by maintaining a constant temperature. Additionally, it is equipped with built-in temperature sensors and a control system, allowing for precise temperature regulation.

[0030] Humidity control also affects grain drying, and to measure and control humidity, the heat pump may include a device for generating low-humidity air by cooling the outside air to be used for drying to a temperature below the dew point, condensing and removing moisture in the air, and then reheating it to remove only the moisture in the air, as well as a humidity sensor.

[0031] In addition, grains can be moved within the drying chamber using bucket elevators and conveying screws, thereby enabling uniform drying of the grains.

[0032] A control panel or controller for the operation and control of the dryer may be included. Through the control panel, the operator can start and stop the dryer, adjust the temperature and humidity, and set the operating time. The control panel may be configured as a digital control panel to perform more precise control.

[0033] In addition, grain dryers may include additional features and devices that help safely store and transport grains.

[0034] On the other hand, fossil fuel burners can use clean fuels such as natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). While fossil fuel burners are generally economical, their environmental impact must be considered as they can emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants. Conversely, burners using clean fuels are more eco-friendly but may be somewhat limited in terms of fuel price or availability.

[0035] Therefore, in this invention, a hybrid method of a heat pump and a fuel heater can be applied to consider environmental factors and simultaneously manage drying costs.

[0036] That is, the grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source according to the present invention can be configured to include a drying means, wherein the drying means may include a first drying means which is a fuel heater and a second drying means which uses a heat pump.

[0037] The first drying means may be, for example, a burner using kerosene among fossil fuels.

[0038] The present invention allows the interior of a drying chamber to be heated to a set temperature using a first drying means and a second drying means when drying grains. At this time, when heating to the set temperature, the process may proceed in two stages: a first heating process of heating to a second temperature, which is the set temperature, and a second heating process of maintaining the second temperature when the temperature drops to the first temperature after reaching the second temperature. The first heating process may continue until the set moisture content of the grain is reached.

[0039] At this time, in the first heating process, the first drying means and the second drying means are used simultaneously, and in the second heating process, the first drying means is continuously operated while the second drying means is controlled to be turned on and off.

[0040] If the difference between the set temperature and the current temperature can be sufficiently reached using only the second drying means, the set temperature can be maintained by controlling only the second drying means, which is a heat pump, to turn on and off. In this case, the current temperature may be the first temperature.

[0041] The above-mentioned set temperature and second temperature are temperatures set to effectively dry grains, and for example, when drying rice, it can be 46℃.

[0042] As described above, after heating to a set temperature through the first drying means and the second drying means, the first drying means is operated continuously while only the second drying means is finely controlled on / off to maintain the set temperature, thereby helping to optimize and improve the efficiency of grain drying. In other words, it can help improve the quality and storage stability of grains by effectively controlling the grain drying process and effectively removing moisture from the grains. Furthermore, the system can be configured to optimize grain drying through the cooperation of the first drying means and the second drying means.

[0043] In addition, the first heating process can proceed quickly.

[0044] In this way, if the heating rate per hour to the set temperature is fast, the initial heating proceeds rapidly when the grain drying process begins, thereby rapidly removing surface moisture from the grain and accelerating the drying process.

[0045] In addition, if the above-mentioned set temperature is reached quickly through rapid heating in the initial stage, the surface moisture of the grain is rapidly evaporated, thereby reducing the moisture content of the grain more quickly and shortening the drying time.

[0046] In addition, if the above-mentioned set temperature is reached quickly through rapid initial heating, energy can be utilized efficiently, energy consumption can be optimized, and the drying process can be made more efficient, thereby providing economic benefits.

[0047] Therefore, rapidly heating the grain to the aforementioned set temperature per hour allows for a quick initiation and efficient execution of the grain drying process, which can help improve the quality of agricultural products and shorten drying time. Furthermore, it is important to prevent low-temperature drying during the initial stages by heating to the set temperature all at once, and to maintain the set temperature through fine adjustments once it is reached. This is because, in the case of rice, heating above 46°C can cause the grain to burn or crack due to the high-temperature hot air, significantly degrading its quality. Therefore, it is crucial to maximize drying speed and efficiency by heating rapidly to the set temperature, and to ensure the quality of the rice by proceeding slowly through the transition from the first temperature to the second temperature. In particular, during the transition to the second temperature, drying with low humidity using a heat pump can maintain the grain's quality in an optimal state.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing the structure according to one embodiment of the second drying means according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a comparison of the configuration of a conventional grain dryer and a grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source according to one embodiment of the present invention, and will be explained below with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0049] The grain dryer using a heat pump according to the present invention may be composed of a condenser, an evaporator, a compressor, and a check valve, etc. Each may be connected by copper pipes. The compressor draws in and compresses low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the evaporator to produce high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant, and the condenser releases heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor through a heat sink and condenses the refrigerant into a liquid state.

[0050] The expansion valve expands the refrigerant entering from the condenser at high temperature and pressure, converting it to a low-temperature and low-pressure state. During this process, the refrigerant changes into a mixture of gas and liquid; subsequently, the evaporator utilizes a low-temperature heat source to evaporate the refrigerant, converting it back to a low-temperature and low-pressure state. Through this process, the refrigerant can be converted into vapor at low temperature and pressure.

[0051] Heat pumps utilize heat changes resulting from phase transitions by employing liquefaction, where a gas changes into a liquid and releases heat to the surroundings, and vaporization, where a liquid changes into a gas and absorbs heat from the surroundings. In the case of grain drying, a fan is used to forcibly draw external air into the heat pump; the high-temperature, low-humidity air generated as it passes through the condenser is then introduced into the grain dryer for drying.

[0052] Dry air passes through a heat pump to absorb heat from the refrigerant, and its temperature is lowered in the process. As this cooled and heated air passes over the surface of the drying material, it evaporates moisture, thereby increasing the relative humidity. Furthermore, through this method, the drying material (grain) is dried, and the air can change from a highly humid state containing moisture to a dry state.

[0053] Meanwhile, when grain drying is performed using only a heat pump, the capacity of the heat pump must be increased, which significantly increases the manufacturing cost of the heat pump. Therefore, the present invention can reduce the capacity of the heat pump by optimizing the capacity of the heat pump at an appropriate cost and covering the insufficient heat required for drying with a burner, which is the first drying means.

[0054] The present invention can supply air of accurate temperature and humidity to a grain dryer drying system by precisely measuring the temperature and relative humidity of the outside air and hot air generated from a combined heat source device using a heat pump, and by utilizing this information to uniformly mix the air from the combined heat source with the outside air.

[0055] A grain dryer using a heat pump hybrid heat source according to the present invention can achieve drying up to a target moisture content by repeating the 'drying-circulation-tempering' process.

[0056] Since this type of hybrid grain dryer can consider environmental factors and cost efficiency simultaneously, it is possible to achieve both economic benefits and environmental protection.

[0057] The present invention provides an effective system and method that efficiently controls the temperature and humidity of dried grains through a drying means comprising a fossil fuel heater and a heat pump, enables efficient grain drying while minimizing environmental impact, controls the moisture distribution of the grains more uniformly during drying, and improves the quality of the grains by optimizing temperature and humidity.

[0058] Meanwhile, a design guide method for a grain drying facility using a drying prediction simulation system utilizing a grain dryer using the aforementioned heat pump hybrid heat source can be provided, and can be configured to include an input data collection step, a simulation execution step, an optimal control algorithm application step, and a dryer recommendation step.

[0059] In the input data collection stage, by accurately collecting and defining the following information, it is possible to possess the data necessary to accurately model the grain drying process and determine the optimal drying method. This enables efficient grain drying and energy management.

[0060] The first information, which is information about the grain to be dried, may include information regarding the type of grain, the moisture content of the grain, the temperature and humidity at the time of drying the grain, and the airflow rate.

[0061] The type of grain can be identified by the type of grain to be dried, for example, various types of grain such as rice, barley, and wheat.

[0062] The moisture content of the grain can be the initial moisture content of the grain to be dried, or it can be the moisture content of the grain measured before drying. This is important information for evaluating the grain drying process.

[0063] In addition, environmental conditions regarding the drying period, such as temperature, humidity, grain moisture content, and grain temperature information, can be collected. This information can be used to control the drying temperature, airflow rate, and grain flow rate of the drying process.

[0064] First, temperature plays a key role in the grain drying process. Generally, the drying process proceeds rapidly at high temperatures, but since excessively high temperatures can negatively affect grain quality, it is desirable to adjust the temperature according to the type of grain and quality requirements.

[0065] Humidity is also a crucial factor in the grain drying process. The moisture content of the grain is closely related to humidity and can be used to assess the grain's drying status. It is important to maintain grain quality by properly managing humidity as drying progresses. For example, in the case of rice, the moisture content is approximately 24% at harvest, and it must be adjusted to 15–16% when transitioning to post-market processing.

[0066] Grain temperature refers to the temperature of the grain (grain temperature) that rises when exposed to hot air during drying. While it is desirable to raise the hot air temperature to a set level, it cannot be raised too much considering quality. The appropriate hot air temperature is based on the grain temperature, and if the grain temperature does not exceed 36℃ during drying, cracking rarely occurs, and no deterioration in quality occurs.

[0067] Airflow rate refers to the speed of air movement during the drying process. By maintaining an appropriate airflow rate during grain drying, heat can be efficiently transferred to the grains and moisture can be removed. This can affect the speed and efficiency of the drying process.

[0068] An exhauster refers to the expulsion of air within a dry space. The inflow of fresh air and the exhaust of used air can be controlled through the exhaust. Proper exhaust plays an important role in regulating humidity and temperature within the dry space and maintaining uniformity of temperature and humidity.

[0069] The grain flow rate refers to the flow speed of the grain, that is, the residence time of the grain inside the drying chamber or the time the grain is in contact with hot air. If the contact time is long, drying proceeds quickly but quality deteriorates; conversely, if it is short, there is no quality damage but the drying speed slows down. The grain flow rate and residence time vary depending on the moisture content of the grain, the hot air temperature, the airflow rate, and the size of the dryer, and the residence time is typically in the range of 15 to 30 minutes.

[0070] Environmental conditions during such dry periods may vary by region, season, and time, and may differ slightly each year, so statistical data of at least 10 years can be used.

[0071] Environmental conditions during the drying period can play a key role in efficiently managing and optimizing the drying process. These conditions are collected and modeled by a dryer installation guide system and can be used to determine the optimal drying method. The aforementioned drying installation guide system can be understood to include a separate control unit connected to a grain dryer drying prediction simulation system. The separate control unit may also be configured together with the grain dryer drying prediction simulation system.

[0072] Meanwhile, the first information may further include information on the drying processing capacity flowing into the location where the dryer is installed.

[0073] Information on drying capacity can be collected to accurately plan the amount of grain to be supplied to the dryer. The drying capacity and speed of grain entering the location where the dryer is installed can directly affect the efficiency of the drying process. Therefore, accurate grain supply planning can guide the dryer to operate evenly and ensure that the grain dries quickly without remaining in a standby state.

[0074] Minimizing standby time is crucial, as grains can spoil if exposed to moisture for extended periods in an open environment. In particular, grains can spoil rapidly in highly humid environments, which can lead to losses. The dryer installation guide system can prevent the aforementioned problems by providing installation guide information that takes these factors into account.

[0075] Furthermore, prolonged exposure of grains to the atmosphere can degrade their quality and increase the risk of spoilage. Therefore, information on drying capacity is crucial for preserving the quality and freshness of dried grains. Additionally, faster drying reduces the risk of spoilage, allowing for longer storage.

[0076] Considering drying capacity information in this way can provide significant advantages in the grain production and processing process. A dryer installation guide system can utilize this information to plan an optimal drying process and provide installation guidance that improves productivity by maintaining grains at their highest quality and preventing spoilage.

[0077] In addition, the input data may include second information, which is specification information for a dryer to dry the grain.

[0078] The second information may include the type of dryer and dryer capacity information, etc.

[0079] For dryer types, you can refer to the types and models of dryers currently on the market or in use. Since there are various types of dryers, this information is important for drying process modeling.

[0080] Since the selected hot air temperature affects the efficiency, environmental impact, and cost of the drying process, the dryer installation guide can help determine the optimal heat source by considering these factors.

[0081] The performance of the hot air temperature used in the dryer, that is, the heat output or amount of heat, can be measured or set.

[0082] The capacity of the dryer can be used to determine the size of the dryer based on the drying processing capacity to be dried.

[0083] The simulation execution step is a step of simulating the grain drying process of the grain dryer drying prediction simulation system based on the data input through the input data collection step, and can be configured as follows.

[0084] First, you can set the initial state before starting the simulation. This may include the initial state of the dryer, the initial state of the grain to be dried, and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.).

[0085] In addition, the simulation cycle and time step can be defined; the simulation cycle determines how often the simulation results are updated, and the time step defines how small the intervals are to be divided over time for the drying process.

[0086] In addition, a loop can be set up to simulate the drying process. The simulation loop updates the operation of the dryer according to time stages and can monitor the condition of the grain.

[0087] In simulation, the operation of a dryer can be modeled; that is, the changes and interactions occurring during the actual drying process can be simulated through a computer program. This may include drying temperature, airflow rate, grain flow rate, humidity, and temperature control. The modeled process can be simulated by adjusting all variables required for the drying process.

[0088] The drying process is monitored during the simulation, which may include the moisture content, temperature, humidity, and drying time of the dried grain. The data output from the simulation execution phase is used for an optimal control algorithm and can be used to track the progress of the drying process.

[0089] The results obtained at each simulation step can be recorded. These results include information on the time elapsed and grain status of the final drying process and can be used to optimize the optimal control algorithm.

[0090] The simulation can set termination conditions. Termination conditions can be set, for example, to a specific time or when grain quality standards are met.

[0091] Simulation results can be analyzed and the performance of the drying process evaluated, thereby verifying the efficiency of the optimal control algorithm and making adjustments if necessary.

[0092] In the simulation execution phase, by virtually experimenting and optimizing before implementing the actual drying process, time and costs can be saved and the grain drying process can be efficiently improved.

[0093] The optimal control algorithm application step is a step of applying a control algorithm to optimize the grain drying process based on the output data of the simulation execution step above.

[0094] The optimal control algorithm application step is used to optimize the grain drying process and control the conditions of the dryer, and can be configured as follows.

[0095] The control algorithm can adjust the operating conditions of the dryer based on variables predicted through the simulation execution step above.

[0096] In an optimal control algorithm, it is necessary to select which variables to adjust. The selected variables must be related to the objectives of the drying process and may include the dryer's drying temperature, airflow rate, grain flow rate, etc.

[0097] In addition, various optimal control algorithms exist, and an appropriate algorithm must be selected based on the complexity and objectives of the drying process. For example, the Box Complex algorithm can be considered.

[0098] Before applying the optimal control algorithm, control objectives must be established. These objectives may vary depending on the goals of the drying process and may include, for example, maximizing drying speed, minimizing energy consumption, or achieving specific quality standards for the grain.

[0099] In addition, a feedback loop can be configured. The optimal control algorithm can continuously monitor the state of the drying process and adjust control variables based on feedback. Sensors and measuring devices in the dryer can be used to track the drying status and supply this information to the algorithm.

[0100] The drying process can be controlled by executing a selected optimal control algorithm. The algorithm can make optimal decisions based on modeling results and field data. For example, the drying process can be optimized by adjusting variables such as drying temperature, airflow rate, and grain flow rate.

[0101] The drying process can be adjusted according to fluctuating environmental conditions. The optimal control algorithm analyzes data in real time and adjusts control variables based on conditions to maintain optimal results.

[0102] In addition, it is possible to monitor whether the algorithm is accurately controlling the drying process, and to this end, performance indicators of the algorithm can be defined and the efficiency and quality of the system can be evaluated.

[0103] The application of the optimal control algorithm can play a key role in effectively controlling the drying process, saving energy, and optimizing grain quality. The algorithm is adjusted according to the complexity and objectives of the drying process, and optimal results can be achieved by monitoring and adjusting the process in real time.

[0104] Meanwhile, the simulation can be run again and the result value verified by applying the optimal control algorithm derived through the optimal control algorithm application step.

[0105] In the dryer recommendation step, optimal dryer installation information can be provided based on results obtained by applying the optimal control algorithm derived through the aforementioned optimal control algorithm application step, such as the moisture content of the dried grain, drying time, and energy consumption. The dryer installation information may include the capacity of the dryer, the output of the dryer, and the number of dryers to be installed.

[0106] The dryer recommendation step is a process of deriving and providing optimal dryer installation information based on the results obtained through the optimal control algorithm application step, and the method for configuring this is as follows.

[0107] First, result data obtained during the optimal control algorithm application step can be collected and analyzed. This data may include the moisture content of the dried grain, drying time, energy consumption, etc., and may also include all data related to grain information, regional environmental characteristics, dryer specifications, etc.; therefore, it is not desirable to limit the scope to only the aforementioned data items.

[0108] The installation information for the dryer can be determined based on the type of grain to be dried. By considering characteristics such as the type of grain, moisture content, and harvest time, the information required for dryer installation can be accurately determined.

[0109] In addition, one of the installation details is the dryer's capacity, which can be determined by considering the amount of grain to be dried. This can affect the drying processing capacity and drying time.

[0110] In addition, since the dryer's output can also affect the drying capacity and drying time it can handle at once, optimal conditions can be found by adjusting the dryer's output based on simulation results.

[0111] In addition, the number of dryers to be installed in the drying facility can be determined. This may vary depending on the drying processing capacity and drying time required, and depending on the installation location, additional dryers with larger capacities may be installed, or multiple dryers with smaller capacities may be installed.

[0112] In addition, since the spatial arrangement and installation location of the dryer can affect the efficiency of the drying process, one should consider how to position and install the dryer depending on the installation location.

[0113] In addition, dryer installation information can be optimized by considering constraints such as the size of the drying space and electricity or gas supply.

[0114] After undergoing all such analysis and optimization processes, optimal dryer installation information can be provided to the user. This information may include the dryer's capacity, output, number of units to be installed, and placement location.

[0115] Meanwhile, to convey optimal dryer installation information to the user, it may also be provided in the form of visually easy-to-understand reports or visualizations.

[0116] By providing optimal dryer installation information through this method, the grain drying process can be efficiently improved and energy and resources can be saved.

[0117] In the foregoing, although all components constituting an embodiment of the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined in one or more ways to operate. Furthermore, terms such as "include," "constitute," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, mean that the relevant component may be inherent; thus, they should be interpreted as allowing for the inclusion of additional components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. Terms commonly used, such as those defined in advance, should be interpreted in accordance with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and, unless explicitly defined in the present invention, should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense.

[0118] The foregoing description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this invention are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the present invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by such embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A grain dryer comprising a drying means, wherein the drying means comprises a first drying means which is a fuel heater; and a second drying means which is a heat pump, wherein at least one of the first drying means and the second drying means is used to heat to a set temperature during drying, and when heated to the set temperature, a first heating process is performed to heat to a second temperature which is the set temperature, and when the temperature drops from the second temperature to the first temperature, a second heating process is performed to heat to maintain the second temperature, wherein the first heating process is performed until the set moisture content of the grain is reached, wherein the first drying means and the second drying means are used simultaneously in the first heating process, and in the second heating process, the first drying means is continuously operated while the second drying means is controlled to be turned on / off. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 delete

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