Dryer and method for controlling same

The described dryer system addresses the lack of filter maintenance notifications by using a processor to monitor and notify users about filter cleanliness and installation, enhancing maintenance awareness and efficiency.

WO2025023502A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-01-30SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/008253
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-07-26
Filing Date
2024-06-14
Publication Date
2025-01-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing dryers do not effectively notify users about the cleanliness and installation status of the filter after a drying cycle, leading to potential performance degradation due to accumulated lint and dust.

Method used

A dryer with a blower module, filter, processor, and input/output interface that checks the filter's separation and mounting status, providing notifications to guide users on cleaning and maintaining the filter based on continuous operation frequency, lint generation, and laundry weight.

Benefits of technology

Enhances user awareness of filter maintenance, reducing performance degradation by ensuring regular cleaning and improving drying efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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    Figure KR2024008253_30012025_PF_FP_ABST
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Abstract

A dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a drum; a blowing module that generates air flow introduced into the drum; and a control unit for controlling the blowing module; a filter that filters foreign substances included in air discharged from the drum by the air flow; an input / output interface; a memory that stores at least one instruction; and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor may, by executing the at least one instruction, cause the input / output interface to determine whether the filter has been separated and reattached after a previous drying operation, to increase the number of continuous operations on the basis of a drying operation type of the dryer in response to the filter not being separated and reattached, and to provide a notification guiding a use to separate and clean the filter from the dryer and cleaning on the basis of the number of continuous operations.
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Description

Dryer and method of controlling the same

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a dryer and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A dryer is an electronic device that uses heat or air to dry laundry. A dryer can heat the air using a heater. The dryer passes the heated air through a drum containing laundry to dry the laundry. The dryer can rotate the drum to evenly dry the laundry. Dryers are widely used because they can quickly dry laundry in humid weather.

[0003] A dryer may include a filter that captures foreign substances contained in the air. The filter can filter out foreign substances, such as clothing dust, contained in the air passing through the laundry and deliver the air free of foreign substances to the heater. Foreign substances may accumulate on the surface of the filter. To maintain the dryer's drying performance, the user must remove the filter from the dryer after each drying cycle and clean any foreign substances accumulated on the filter's surface before replacing the filter. Existing dryers may generate an alert prompting the user to clean the filter when the dryer is turned on. However, if the filter is removed and replaced after the previous drying cycle has ended, the dryer does not generate an alert, assuming that the filter has been cleaned. Existing dryers generate the same alert solely based on whether the filter was removed and replaced after the previous drying cycle ended, making it difficult to provide the user with an alert appropriate to the current status of the filter.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dryer may include a drum, a blower module for generating an air flow to be introduced into the interior of the drum, a filter for filtering foreign substances contained in air discharged from the drum by the air flow, an input / output interface, a memory for storing at least one instruction, and at least one processor. According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may, by executing the at least one instruction, determine whether the filter is detached and mounted during operation of the dryer. According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may, in response to the filter not being detached and mounted, determine the operation type of the dryer. According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may, based on the operation type, increase a continuous operation count indicating the number of times the dryer has been operated while maintaining a state in which the filter has not been cleaned. According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may control the input / output interface to provide a notification guiding the removal and cleaning of the filter from the dryer based on the continuous operation count.

[0005] A method for controlling a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an operation for checking whether a filter of the dryer is removed and mounted during operation of the dryer. A method for controlling a dryer according to one embodiment may include an operation for checking an operation type of the dryer in response to the filter not being removed and mounted. A method for controlling a dryer according to one embodiment may include an operation for increasing a continuous operation count indicating the number of times the dryer has been operated while maintaining a state in which the filter has not been cleaned, based on the operation type. A method for controlling a dryer according to one embodiment may include an operation for providing a notification guiding the removal and cleaning of the filter from the dryer, based on the continuous operation count.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure provides notifications at levels corresponding to a number of cycles.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a level of notification corresponding to a number of cycles of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the amount of lint generated by a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an increase in the number of continuous operations according to the amount of lint generated by a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the weight of laundry in a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an increase in the number of consecutive operations according to the weight of laundry in a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the number of consecutive operations of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the expected operation time and actual operation time of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 13A is a diagram illustrating providing a notification on a display of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 13b is a diagram illustrating providing a notification on a display of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 14A is a diagram illustrating providing a notification on a display of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 14b is a diagram illustrating providing a notification on a display of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating a notification provided from a speaker of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16b is a diagram illustrating a notification provided from a speaker of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating an input / output interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method for counting the number of consecutive operations according to the time interval between the separation and mounting points of a filter of a dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] The terms used in this disclosure will be briefly explained, and one embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described.

[0028] The terms used in this disclosure are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of one embodiment of the disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant embodiments of the disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be defined simply as names of terms, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the disclosure.

[0029] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0030] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies the inclusion of other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part," "module," and the like described herein refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, one embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted to clearly describe one embodiment of the present disclosure, and similar parts are designated with similar drawing reference numerals throughout the present disclosure.

[0032] The dryer and its control method according to the present disclosure are intended to provide a user with notifications appropriate to the current status of the filter. The structure of the dryer according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIG. 1.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The dryer (100) according to one embodiment may include a drum (110), a motor (120), a heating module (130), a blower module (140), a sensor (150), a filter (160), a processor (170), and a door (180).

[0034] In one embodiment, the drum (110) may be rotatably arranged inside the main body of the dryer (100). The drum (110) may have a columnar shape. For example, the drum (110) may have a cylindrical shape. The drum (110) may be arranged to face the side of the dryer (100). For example, one of the upper and lower surfaces of the drum (110) may be arranged to face the door (180) of the dryer (100), and the other surface may be arranged to face the inner side of the dryer (100). The drum (110) may be arranged such that one of the upper and lower surfaces is open, and the open surface faces the door (180). The drum (110) may receive laundry through the open surface. The drum (110) may evenly mix the laundry while rotating.

[0035] In one embodiment, the motor (120) can rotate the drum (110). The motor (120) can provide rotational force to the drum (110). When current is supplied to the motor (120), the motor (120) can rotate about an axis or shaft. A belt (121) can be connected to the axis or shaft of the motor (120). The belt (121) can be wound around the drum (110). When the motor (120) rotates, the belt (121) can rotate the drum (110) while moving in one direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the heating module (130) can heat the air inside the dryer (100). For example, the heating module (130) can heat the surrounding air. The heating module (130) can be positioned on the outside of the drum (110). For example, the heating module (130) can be positioned below the drum (110) and spaced apart from the outside of the side of the drum (110).

[0037] In one embodiment, the blower module (140) may be positioned adjacent to the heating module (130). For example, the blower module (140) may be positioned adjacent to one side of the heating module (130). The blower module (140) may include a fan. The blower module (140) may cause air heated by the heating module (130) inside the dryer (100) to flow into the drum (110). For example, the blower module (140) may cause air heated by the heating module (130) to flow into the drum (110) through the first path (191).

[0038] In one embodiment, the filter (160) may be placed between the drum (110) and the door (180). The filter (160) may have a structure that is detachable and mountable. The filter (160) may filter foreign substances contained in the air. The filter (160) may capture foreign substances such as dust and lint contained in the air coming out of the drum (110) through the second path (192). The filter (160) may have a structure capable of capturing foreign substances. For example, the filter (160) may have a mesh structure.

[0039] In one embodiment, the sensor (150) may be positioned adjacent to the filter (160). For example, the sensor (150) may be positioned adjacent to the upper portion of the filter (160). The sensor (150) may detect whether the filter (160) is mounted. For example, the sensor (150) may distinguish between cases where the filter (160) is detached from the dryer (100) and cases where it is mounted. The sensor (150) may generate a detection signal based on whether the filter (160) is mounted. The sensor (150) may transmit the generated detection signal to at least one processor (170).

[0040] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can control the overall operation of the dryer (100). The at least one processor (170) may include a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphic processing unit (GPU), and an artificial intelligence (AI) processor. The artificial intelligence processor may be manufactured in the form of a dedicated hardware chip, or may be manufactured as a part of the central processing unit, the application processor, or the graphic processor and mounted on the dryer (100). The artificial intelligence processor may be designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence processor may create an artificial intelligence model through learning. For example, the artificial intelligence processor may create an artificial intelligence model having predefined operation rules set to perform a desired characteristic (or purpose) by learning using a plurality of learning data by a learning algorithm. The at least one processor (170) may receive a detection signal from a sensor (150). At least one processor (170) can determine whether a filter (160) is mounted on the dryer (100) based on the detection signal. For example, at least one processor (170) can determine that the filter (160) is detached from the dryer (100) based on the detection signal. For example, at least one processor (170) can determine that the filter (160) is remounted on the dryer (100) based on the detection signal.

[0041] Hereinafter, the functions and roles of each component constituting the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 2.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The dryer (100) according to one embodiment may include a drum (110), a blower module (140), a filter (160), a memory (210), an input / output interface (220), and at least one processor (170).

[0043] In one embodiment, the blower module (140) can generate an air flow that is introduced into the interior of the drum (110). The blower module (140) can include a fan. For example, the blower module (140) can form an air flow by rotating the fan. The blower module (140) can cause the heated air inside the dryer (100) to flow toward the interior of the drum (110). For example, the blower module (140) can form an air flow toward one side of the heating module (130) by rotating the fan. When the air flow is formed toward one side of the heating module (130), the blower module (140) can cause the air heated in the heating module (130) to flow toward the interior of the drum (110).

[0044] In one embodiment, the filter (160) can filter out foreign substances contained in the air discharged from the drum (110) by the air flow. The filter (160) can capture foreign substances such as dust and lint contained in the air discharged from the drum (110).

[0045] In one embodiment, the memory (210) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., an SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory (210) may store at least one instruction. The memory (210) may store a program for processing and controlling operations of at least one processor (170). The programs stored in the memory (210) may be classified into a plurality of modules according to their functions. The memory (210) may store information input to at least one processor (170) in relation to the operation of the dryer (100).

[0046] In one embodiment, the input / output interface (220) may be disposed on the outside of the door (180) or on the body surface of the dryer (100). The input / output interface (220) may include at least one switch, a display, and a speaker. The input / output interface (220) may receive a user's input and output information related to the operation of the dryer (100). For example, at least one switch included in the input / output interface (220) may receive a user's push input to set an operation mode of the dryer (100) and operate the dryer (100). For example, a display included in the input / output interface (220) may visually output information related to the operation of the dryer (100). For example, a speaker included in the input / output interface (220) may audibly output information related to the operation of the dryer (100).

[0047] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can load data stored in the memory (210). For example, at least one processor (170) can load input information related to the drying operation of the dryer (100) stored in the memory (210). At least one processor (170) can control the overall drying operation of the dryer (100) based on the data loaded from the memory (210). At least one processor (170) can execute at least one instruction stored in the memory (210).

[0048] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can identify whether a removal and installation of the filter (160) has been performed since a previous drying operation. The at least one processor (170) can identify whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) since the dryer (100) previously performed a drying operation and the filter (160) has been subsequently re-installed. For example, the at least one processor (170) can identify whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) and re-installed since the completion of the drying operation when the dryer (100) was turned back on after the dryer (100) last completed the drying operation and was turned off. The at least one processor (170) can identify whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) and the filter (160) has been subsequently re-installed on the dryer (100) based on a detection signal received from the sensor (150).

[0049] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may increase the number of consecutive operations based on the drying operation type of the dryer (100) when the separation and mounting of the filter (160) has not been performed. The drying operation type of the dryer (100) may refer to an operation course performed by the dryer (100). The operation course performed by the dryer (100) may include any one of a plurality of operation modes that allow the dryer (100) to operate in a predetermined manner according to the type of laundry to be dried or the method desired by the user to dry the laundry. At least one processor (170) may determine that the cleaning of the filter (160) has not been performed when the separation and mounting of the filter (160) has not been performed. At least one processor (170) can check the drying operation type of the dryer (100) to predict the amount of foreign substances increased in the filter (160) or the degree of clogging of the filter (160) by the foreign substances when cleaning is not performed. The number of continuous operations may refer to the number of times the dryer (100) performs the drying operation while maintaining the state in which the filter (160) is not cleaned. The number of continuous operations may refer to the number of times the dryer (100) is continuously operated in the drying operation while the filter (160) is continuously mounted on the dryer (100) without being cleaned. As the number of continuous operations increases, the amount of lint accumulated in the filter (160) may increase. As the number of continuous operations increases, the degree of clogging of the filter (160) may increase. At least one processor (170) can predict the amount of lint generated when the dryer (100) performs the drying operation according to the drying operation type. At least one processor (170) can determine an increase value for the number of consecutive operations based on the amount of lint generated when the dryer (100) performs a drying operation.For example, at least one processor (170) may significantly increase the number of consecutive operations when the dryer (100) is operated in a drying operation type that generates a lot of lint. For example, at least one processor (170) may significantly increase the number of consecutive operations when the dryer (100) is operated in a drying operation type that generates little lint.

[0050] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may control the input / output interface (220) to provide a notification guiding the user to remove the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and clean it based on the number of consecutive operations. The input / output interface (220) may output the notification in the form of at least one of a visual notification, an auditory notification, or a tactile notification. For example, the input / output interface (220) may output the notification visually through a display. For example, the input / output interface (220) may output the notification audibly through a speaker. For example, the input / output interface (220) may output the notification tactilely through a haptic drive unit. The at least one processor (170) may determine the level of the notification based on the number of consecutive operations. For example, the at least one processor (170) may increase the level of the notification provided to the next level when the number of consecutive operations reaches a specific number. At least one processor (170) may determine the intensity, content, or duration of a notification based on the level of the notification. For example, at least one processor (170) may increase the intensity of the notification as the level of the notification increases. For example, at least one processor (170) may change the content of the notification to increase the user's alertness as the level of the notification increases. For example, at least one processor (170) may increase the duration of the notification as the level of the notification increases.

[0051] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may provide a notification based on the number of consecutive operations to inform the user of the need for cleaning the filter (160) corresponding to the current state of the filter (160). The dryer (100) according to one embodiment may improve drying performance by inducing the user to be alert and clean the filter (160).

[0052] Hereinafter, a control method of a dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 3.

[0053] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) can identify, in operation 310, whether the removal and attachment of the filter (160) has been performed since the previous drying operation. The sensor (150) of the dryer (100) can generate a detection signal based on whether the filter (160) has been attached. The at least one processor (170) can receive the detection signal from the sensor (150) after the dryer (100) has completed the previous drying operation and before performing the current drying operation. The at least one processor (170) can identify, based on the detection signal, whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) and then reattached since the dryer (100) performed the previous drying operation. For example, the at least one processor (170) can identify, based on the detection signal, whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100). For example, at least one processor (170) can identify whether the filter (160) has been re-mounted in the dryer (100) based on the detection signal.

[0055] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may, in operation 320, increase the number of continuous operations based on the drying operation type of the dryer (100) in response to the non-performance of the separation and mounting of the filter (160). The number of continuous operations may represent the number of times the dryer (100) has operated while maintaining a state in which the filter (160) has not been cleaned. If the separation and mounting of the filter (160) has not been performed, the at least one processor (170) may determine that the dryer (100) has performed the drying operation while the filter (160) has not been cleaned. The at least one processor (170) may identify the drying operation type during the drying operation of the dryer (100). The at least one processor (170) may predict the amount of lint generated during the drying operation of the dryer (100) based on the drying operation type. At least one processor (170) can determine an increase value for the number of consecutive operations based on the amount of lint generated when the dryer (100) performs a drying operation.

[0056] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of a dryer (100) may control an input / output interface (220) to provide a notification guiding the removal and cleaning of a filter from the dryer (100) based on the number of consecutive operations in operation 330. The at least one processor (170) may determine the level of the notification output from the input / output interface (220) based on the number of consecutive operations. The at least one processor (170) may determine the intensity of the notification, the content of the notification, or the duration of the notification based on the level of the notification.

[0057] Hereinafter, a method for providing a notification at a level corresponding to a number of times range by a dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 4.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a notification at a level corresponding to a number of cycles.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the dryer (100) can be powered on and start a drying operation at operation 410. The input / output interface (220) of the dryer (100) can receive a user's input for turning on the power. For example, the input / output interface (220) can receive a push input from the user for turning on the power. For example, when the user operates the dryer (100) using a remote control, the input / output interface (220) can receive a remote control command for turning on the power from the remote control of the dryer (100). At least one processor (170) of the dryer (1000) can switch the power of the dryer (100) from an off state to an on state in response to receiving a user's input to turn on the power. At least one processor (170) can receive an additional input of the user to select a drying operation type. At least one processor (170) can start a drying operation of the dryer (100) according to the drying operation type selected by the additional input.

[0060] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) can identify whether the removal and attachment of the filter (160) has been performed after the drying operation in operation 420. The at least one processor (170) can identify whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) and reattached since the last drying operation performed before the drying operation when the dryer (100) starts the drying operation. The at least one processor (170) can receive a detection signal from the sensor (150) when the dryer (100) starts the drying operation. The at least one processor (170) can determine whether the filter (160) has been removed from the dryer (100) and reattached based on the detection signal. If the at least one processor (170) identifies that the removal and attachment of the filter (160) has been performed after the drying operation (operation 420 - Yes), the processor can proceed to operation 430. At least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 440 if it identifies that the removal and mounting of the filter (160) has not been performed after the drying operation (operation 420 - No).

[0061] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may initialize a count of the number of consecutive operations in operation 430. If the at least one processor (170) identifies that the filter (160) has been removed and mounted after the drying operation, the at least one processor (170) may determine that the user has removed and cleaned the filter (160), remounted the filter (160), and operated the dryer (100). If the at least one processor (170) identifies that the filter (160) has been removed and mounted after the drying operation, the at least one processor (170) may determine that the filter (160) has been properly cleaned. Based on the result of determining that the filter (160) has been properly cleaned, the at least one processor (170) may initialize a count of the number of consecutive operations, which represents the number of times the dryer (100) has continuously performed the drying operation while the filter (160) has not been cleaned, to 0.

[0062] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may increase a count of the number of continuous operations based on a drying operation type in operation 440. If the at least one processor (170) identifies that the filter (160) has not been removed and mounted after the drying operation, the dryer (100) may determine that the dryer has been operated in a state in which the filter (160) has not been cleaned. If the at least one processor (170) identifies that the filter (160) has not been removed and mounted after the drying operation, the dryer (100) may increase a count of the number of continuous operations indicating the number of times the dryer (100) has been continuously operated in a state in which the filter (160) has not been cleaned. When increasing the count of the number of continuous operations, the at least one processor (170) may determine an amount of lint generated during the drying operation based on the drying operation type. The at least one processor (170) may determine a value of how much to increase the number of continuous operations based on the amount of lint generated during the drying operation.

[0063] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may provide a notification at a level corresponding to at least one of a plurality of number ranges based on whether the number of continuous operations falls within at least one of the plurality of number ranges in operation 450. The at least one processor (170) may pre-designate a plurality of number ranges. For example, the at least one processor (170) may pre-designate a first number range in which the number of continuous operations is 1 to 9 times, a second number range in which the number of continuous operations is 10 to 19 times, a third number range in which the number of continuous operations is 20 to 29 times, and a fourth number range in which the number of continuous operations is 30 to 30 times.

[0064] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine which of a plurality of ranges of number of times the number of consecutive operations falls within. For example, if the number of consecutive operations is 12, the at least one processor (170) may determine that the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range of number of times. Each of the plurality of ranges of number of times may correspond to a plurality of levels. For example, a first range of number of times may correspond to a first level. For example, a second range of number of times may correspond to a second level. For example, a third range of number of times may correspond to a third level. For example, a fourth range of number of times may correspond to a fourth level. At least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a level corresponding to a range of number of times to which the number of consecutive operations falls. For example, if the number of consecutive operations is 12, the at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a second level corresponding to the second range of number of times. Accordingly, the dryer (100) according to one embodiment can classify the number of times the dryer (100) has performed a drying operation without cleaning the filter (160) into one of a plurality of ranges and provide a situational notification to the user.

[0065] Below, the level-specific notification corresponding to the range of the number of consecutive operations of the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 5.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a level of notification corresponding to a number of cycles of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) can divide the number of times the filter (160) is not cleaned in succession into a plurality of number ranges. For example, at least one processor (170) can designate a first number range (510) in which the number of times the continuous operation is performed is 1 to 9 times, a second number range (520) in which the number of times the continuous operation is performed is 10 to 19 times, a third number range (530) in which the number of times the continuous operation is performed is 20 to 29 times, and a fourth number range (540) in which the number of times the continuous operation is performed is 30 to 30 times.

[0068] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range based on whether the number of continuous operations falls within at least one frequency range. As the number of continuous operations increases and falls within a higher frequency range among the plurality of frequency ranges, the at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a higher level. For example, when the number of continuous operations falls within a first frequency range (510), the at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a first level corresponding to the first frequency range. The first level notification may be a basic notification. For example, the first level notification may be a notification expressing guidance to separate and clean the filter (160) as the filter (160) has not been cleaned. For example, when the number of continuous operations falls within a second frequency range (520), the at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a second level corresponding to the second frequency range. A second-level notification may be a notification that conveys a higher level of alertness than the basic notification. For example, a second-level notification may be a notification that urges the user to quickly detach and clean the filter (160) because the filter (160) has been used continuously for a considerable number of times without being cleaned. For example, if the number of consecutive operations falls within a third range (530), at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a third level corresponding to the third range of operations. A third-level notification may be a notification that conveys a higher level of alertness than the second-level notification. For example, a third-level notification may be a notification that urges the user to immediately detach and clean the filter (160) in order to use the dryer (100) normally if the filter (160) is used continuously for a long time without being cleaned.For example, at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a fourth level corresponding to the fourth number range when the number of consecutive operations falls within a fourth number range (540). The fourth level notification may be an error occurrence notification. For example, the fourth level notification may be a notification indicating that an error has occurred in the drying operation of the dryer (100) when the filter (160) is continuously used in an uncleaned state.

[0069] Hereinafter, a method for determining a count increase amount according to the amount of lint generated by the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 6.

[0070] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the amount of lint generated by a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the dryer (100) may not perform the separation and mounting of the filter (160) after the previous drying operation in operation 610. The dryer (100) may be turned on and receive a user input for selecting an operation type while the separation and mounting of the filter (160) is not performed. The dryer (100) may perform the drying operation according to the set drying operation type while the separation and mounting of the filter (160) is not performed.

[0072] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on a lint generation amount range according to a drying operation type in operation 620. The drying operation type may be a preset course for the dryer (100) to operate according to a type of laundry. The at least one processor (170) may predict an amount of lint generated during a drying operation of the dryer (100) based on the drying operation type. The at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on a lint generation amount range to which the predicted lint generation amount belongs. For example, when the dryer (100) operates in a drying operation type in which the lint generation amount is large, the at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations to a large value. For example, when the dryer (100) operates in a drying operation type in which the lint generation amount is small, the at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations to a small value.

[0073] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may provide a notification based on the increased number of consecutive operations in operation 630. The at least one processor (170) may provide the notification at a level corresponding to a range of operations to which the increased number of consecutive operations belongs. Accordingly, the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may classify the number of consecutive operations determined by reflecting the amount of lint generated into one of a plurality of ranges and provide a notification appropriate to the user.

[0074] Hereinafter, the increase in the count of the number of continuous operations according to the amount of lint generated by the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 7.

[0075] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an increase in the number of consecutive operations according to the amount of lint generated by a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may preset a plurality of lint generation amount ranges. For example, at least one processor (170) may preset a first range (710), a second range (720), and a third range (730). The first range (710) may be a range in which a small amount of lint is generated during a drying operation of the dryer (100). The second range (720) may be a range in which a medium amount of lint is generated during a drying operation of the dryer (100). The third range (730) may be a range in which a large amount of lint is generated during a drying operation of the dryer (100).

[0077] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may preset a drying operation type corresponding to each of a plurality of lint generation amount ranges. The drying operation type may be a course in which the dryer (100) operates. For example, the drying operation type may include a delicate clothing course, a wool course, a ventilation course, a dehumidification course, an internal sterilization course, a standard course, a blouse course, a fitness course, an outdoor course, a towel course, a comforter course, a comforter shaking course, or a shelf drying course. The at least one processor (170) may classify each of the plurality of courses included in the drying operation type into one of the plurality of lint generation amount ranges according to the lint generation amount of each of the plurality of courses. For example, the at least one processor (170) may classify courses that generate less lint, such as the delicate clothing course, the wool course, the ventilation course, the dehumidification course, or the internal sterilization course, into the first range. For example, at least one processor (170) may classify courses that generate moderate amounts of lint, such as a standard course, a blouse course, a fitness course, or an outdoor course, into a second range. For example, at least one processor (170) may classify courses that generate a lot of lint, such as a towel course, a comforter course, a comforter shaking course, or a shelf drying course, into a third range.

[0078] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on a lint generation amount range according to a drying operation type. At least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations as a first value when the lint generation amount range falls within a first range (710). For example, when the first value is determined as the increase value, the number of continuous operations may increase by 0.5. At least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations as a second value when the lint generation amount range falls within a second range (720). For example, when the second value is determined as the increase value, the number of continuous operations may increase by 1. At least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations as a third value when the lint generation amount range falls within a third range (730). For example, when the third value is determined as the increase value, the number of continuous operations may increase by 2. At least one processor (170) can increase the number of continuous operations by a value corresponding to the lint generation amount range of the drying operation type of the dryer (100). For example, when the drying operation type of the dryer (100) is a delicate course, the at least one processor (170) can increase the number of continuous operations by a first value of 0.5 corresponding to a first range (710) which is a lint generation amount range of the delicate course. For example, when the drying operation type of the dryer (100) is a towel course, the at least one processor (170) can increase the number of continuous operations by a third value of 2 corresponding to a third range (730) which is a lint generation amount range of the towel course.Accordingly, at least one processor (170) can reflect, when counting the number of consecutive operations, a situation in which the lint accumulation amount of the filter (160) increases more and the need to clean the filter (160) further increases when the dryer (100) performs a drying operation of a drying operation type with a large amount of lint, such as a towel course, compared to a drying operation type with a small amount of lint, such as a delicate clothing course.

[0079] Hereinafter, a method for determining a count increase amount according to the weight of laundry by a dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 8.

[0080] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the weight of laundry of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] In one embodiment, the dryer (100) may not perform the separation and mounting of the filter (160) after the previous drying operation in operation 810. The dryer (100) may be turned on and receive a user input for selecting a drying operation type while the filter (160) is not separated and mounted. The dryer (100) may perform the drying operation according to the set drying operation type while the filter (160) is not separated and mounted.

[0082] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of a dryer (100) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the weight of the laundry in operation 820. The sensor (150) may measure the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (110). The sensor (150) may generate a weight signal including information about the measured weight of the laundry. The sensor (150) may transmit the generated weight signal to at least one processor (170). The at least one processor (170) may obtain information about the weight of the laundry included in the received weight signal. The at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the obtained information about the weight of the laundry. For example, the at least one processor (170) may determine a larger increase value of the number of continuous operations as the weight of the laundry increases. For example, at least one processor (170) may preset a plurality of weight ranges having different increase values, and determine an increase value of the number of consecutive operations to correspond to a weight range corresponding to the weight of the acquired laundry.

[0083] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may provide a notification based on the increased number of consecutive operations in operation 830. The at least one processor (170) may provide the notification at a level corresponding to a range of operations to which the increased number of consecutive operations belongs. Accordingly, the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may classify the number of consecutive operations, determined by reflecting the weight of laundry contained in the drum (100), into one of a plurality of ranges and provide a notification appropriate to the user.

[0084] Hereinafter, the increase in the count of the number of consecutive operations according to the weight of laundry of the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with FIG. 9.

[0085] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an increase in the number of consecutive operations according to the weight of laundry of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) can preset a plurality of ranges regarding the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) of the dryer (100). For example, at least one processor (170) can preset a first range (910), a second range (920), and a third range (930). The first range (910) may be a range in which the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is 1 kg or more and less than 3 kg. The second range (920) may be a range in which the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is 3 kg or more and less than 9 kg. The third range (930) may be a range in which the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is 9 kg or more and less than 18 kg.

[0087] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may set an increase value of the number of continuous operations corresponding to each of a plurality of preset ranges. At least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations as a first value when the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) falls within a first range (910). For example, when the first value is determined as the increase value, the number of continuous operations may increase by 0.5. When the weight of laundry accommodated in at least one drum (110) falls within a second range (920), the increase value of the number of continuous operations may be determined as a second value. For example, when the second value is determined as the increase value, the number of continuous operations may increase by 1. At least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations as a third value when the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) falls within a third range (930). For example, if the third value is determined as an increment number, the number of consecutive actions can increase by 2.

[0088] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) of the dryer (100). The at least one processor (170) may increase the number of continuous operations by a value corresponding to a range to which the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) belongs among a plurality of preset ranges. For example, when the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is 2 kg, the at least one processor (170) may increase the number of continuous operations by a first value of 0.5 corresponding to the first range (910). For example, when the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is 11 kg, the at least one processor (170) may increase the number of continuous operations by a third value of 2 corresponding to the first range (930). Accordingly, at least one processor (170) can reflect, when counting the number of consecutive operations, a situation in which the lint accumulation amount of the filter (160) increases more and the need to clean the filter (160) further increases when the weight of the laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is heavy compared to when the weight of the laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is light.

[0089] Hereinafter, the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in connection with FIG. 10 to explain how to add additional time when judging the time based on weight detection when the filter (160) has not been cleaned more than a critical number of times.

[0090] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a control method according to the number of consecutive operations of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] According to one embodiment, a dryer (100) can measure the weight of laundry accommodated in a drum (110) during operation 1010 of the dryer (100). A sensor (150) of the dryer (100) can measure the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110). The sensor (150) can generate a weight signal including information about the measured weight of laundry. The sensor (150) can transmit the generated weight signal to at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100). The at least one processor (170) can obtain information about the weight of laundry included in the received weight signal.

[0092] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may determine an expected operating time based on the weight of the laundry in operation 1020. The at least one processor (170) may determine, based on the measured weight of the laundry, the time required to complete drying of the laundry accommodated in the drum (110) as the expected operating time. The at least one processor (170) may calculate the expected operating time of the dryer (100) at a point in time after receiving the result of measuring the weight of the laundry when the dryer (100) starts operating. The at least one processor (170) may increase the expected operating time as the weight of the laundry increases.

[0093] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may determine whether the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number in operation 1030. As described above, the number of continuous operations may be the number of times the dryer (100) performs a drying operation while the filter (160) is continuously installed without being removed and installed. The critical number may be the number of times that the time for completing drying of laundry in the drum (110) or the performance thereof is affected to a specified degree or more. For example, the critical number may be 20 times. If the number of continuous operations is less than the threshold number (operation 1030 - No), the at least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1040. If the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to the threshold number (operation 1030 - Yes), the at least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1050.

[0094] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may operate according to the expected operation time in operation 1040. The at least one processor (170) may determine that drying of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) is completed when the dryer (100) operates for the expected operation time when the number of continuous operations is less than the threshold number. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the filter (160) does not affect the expected operation time when the number of continuous operations is less than the threshold number. The at least one processor (170) may cause the dryer (100) to perform a drying operation for the expected operation time when the number of continuous operations is less than the threshold number.

[0095] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may perform drying for an additional time added to the expected operation time in operation 1050. The at least one processor (170) may determine that a certain percentage or more of foreign substances such as lint has accumulated in the filter (160) when the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the drying performance of the dryer (100) will be reduced due to a clogging phenomenon of the filter (160) when the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number. The at least one processor (170) may determine that drying of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) will not be completed when the dryer (100) operates for the expected operation time when the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number. At least one processor (170) may determine that the dryer (100) must operate for an additional time added to the expected operation time of the filter (160) when the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number of times to complete drying of laundry contained in the drum (110). The at least one processor (170) may set an additional time based on the number of continuous operations and the weight of the laundry. For example, the additional time may be set to 1 hour. The at least one processor (170) may cause the dryer (100) to perform a drying operation for an additional time added to the expected operation time when the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number of times.

[0096] Hereinafter, the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure generates a detection event that determines that the filter (160) is clogged when the expected operation time and the actual operation time differ by a threshold time or more, and provides a notification at a level corresponding to the number of occurrences of the detection event, in conjunction with FIG. 11.

[0097] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a control method according to the expected operation time and actual operation time of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] According to one embodiment, a dryer (100) can measure the weight of laundry accommodated in a drum (110) during operation 1110 of the dryer (100). A sensor (150) of the dryer (100) can measure the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110). The sensor (150) can generate a weight signal including information about the measured weight of laundry. The sensor (150) can transmit the generated weight signal to at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100). The at least one processor (170) can obtain information about the weight of laundry included in the received weight signal.

[0099] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may set an expected operation time based on the weight of the laundry in operation 1120. The at least one processor (170) may determine, based on the measured weight of the laundry, the time required to complete drying of the laundry accommodated in the drum (110) as the expected operation time. The at least one processor (170) may calculate the expected operation time of the dryer (100) at a point in time after receiving the result of measuring the weight of the laundry when the dryer (100) starts operating. The at least one processor (170) may increase the expected operation time as the weight of the laundry increases.

[0100] According to an embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may determine whether the difference between the expected operating time and the actual operating time is greater than or equal to a threshold time in operation 1130. The at least one processor (170) may compare the set expected operating time with the actual operating time at which the dryer (100) actually operates to completely dry the laundry. The at least one processor (170) may calculate the difference between the expected operating time and the actual operating time. The at least one processor (170) may compare the difference value with a preset threshold time. For example, the threshold time may be set to 1 hour. If the difference between the expected operating time and the actual operating time in operation 1130 is less than the threshold time (operation 1130 - No), the at least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1140. At least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1150 if the difference value between the expected operation time and the actual operation time in operation 1130 is greater than or equal to the threshold time (operation 1130 - Yes).

[0101] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may complete the operation of the dryer (100) in operation 1140. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the expected operation time is set to match the actual operation time when the difference between the expected operation time and the actual operation time is less than the threshold time. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the drying performance of the dryer (100) is maintained within a normal range when the difference between the expected operation time and the actual operation time is less than the threshold time. Since the drying performance is maintained within the normal range, the at least one processor (170) may determine that drying of the laundry in the drum (110) is completed after the dryer (100) operates for the expected operation time, and may complete the operation of the dryer (100).

[0102] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may generate a detection event in operation 1150, determining that the filter (160) is clogged. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the drying performance of the dryer (100) is out of a normal range when the difference between the expected operating time and the actual operating time is greater than or equal to a threshold time. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the cause of the drying performance of the dryer (100) being out of the normal range is a clogged filter (160). The at least one processor (170) may define the determination that the filter (160) is clogged as a detection event. The at least one processor (170) may store the fact that a detection event has occurred in the memory (210). The at least one processor (170) may store the number of occurrences of the detection event in the memory (210). When a detection event has occurred, the at least one processor (170) may count the number of occurrences of the detection event. For example, at least one processor (170) may increase the number of occurrences of a detection event by 1 when a detection event occurs.

[0103] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may provide a notification at a level corresponding to the number of occurrences of a detection event in operation 1160. The at least one processor (170) may preset a plurality of occurrence ranges. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set 1 to 3 detection events as a first occurrence range, 4 to 6 detection events as a second occurrence range, 7 to 9 detection events as a third occurrence range, and 10 or more detection events as a fourth occurrence range. The at least one processor (170) may set a level corresponding to each of the plurality of occurrence ranges. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set a level corresponding to the first occurrence range as a first level, a level corresponding to the second occurrence range as a second level, a level corresponding to the third occurrence range as a third level, and a level corresponding to the fourth occurrence range as a fourth level. At least one processor (170) can determine the range of occurrences to which the number of occurrences of the detection event falls. At least one processor (170) can provide a notification at a level corresponding to the range of occurrences to which the number of occurrences of the detection event falls. For example, if the detection event occurs twice, at least one processor (170) can provide a notification at a first level corresponding to a first range of occurrences. For example, if the detection event occurs eight times, at least one processor (170) can provide a notification at a third level corresponding to a third range of occurrences.

[0104] Hereinafter, the structure of a dryer (100) according to the present disclosure including a display (1210) will be described in conjunction with FIG. 12.

[0105] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The dryer (100) according to one embodiment may include a display (1210).

[0106] In one embodiment, the display (1210) may be disposed on the front of the door (180). For example, the display (1210) may be disposed at a position corresponding to the filter (160) on the front of the door (180). The display (1210) may include at least one of a screen for displaying a screen and a light-emitting unit for emitting light. For example, the display (1210) may be formed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen, may be formed of a plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamps, or may be formed of a set module including an LCD screen and LED lamps. The display (1210) may visually display information related to the operation type of the dryer (100). For example, the display (1210) may display which course the dryer (100) is currently operating in. The display (1210) may visually display information related to the status of the filter (160). For example, the display (1210) may indicate whether the filter (160) is detached or mounted. In addition, the display (1210) may visually display a notification to be provided to the user when the dryer (100) is in operation. For example, the display (1210) may display a notification guiding the user to detach the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and clean it when the dryer (100) starts operating. The user may see the notification initially displayed on the display (1210) and be reminded that the filter (160) must be detached from the dryer (100) and cleaned when the dryer (100) is in operation.

[0107] Hereinafter, the contents of the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure providing visual notifications according to levels on the display (1210) will be described in conjunction with FIGS. 13a, 13b, 14a, and 14b.

[0108] FIG. 13A is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a display (1210) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display (1210) of FIG. 13A may include a screen that displays a screen. For example, the display (1210) may be formed of an LCD screen.

[0109] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may set at least one of the size of an information object including at least one of an icon and text, the color of the information object, and the content of the information object based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of times to which the number of continuous operations belongs. For example, when the number of continuous operations belongs to a first range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of the first icon (1311) based on a first level corresponding to the first range of times. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the size of the first icon (1311) to a minimum size, and set the color of the first icon (1311) to green. For example, when the number of continuous operations belongs to the first range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of the first text (1321) based on a first level corresponding to the first range of times. For example, at least one processor (170) may set the content of the first text (1321) to “Please separate the filter from the dryer and clean it when in use.”

[0110] At least one processor (170) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment may generate an information object having at least one of size, color, and content set as a notification. For example, at least one processor (170) may generate a first icon (1311) and a first text (1321) as a notification corresponding to a first level.

[0111] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may display the generated notification through the display (1210). For example, if the number of consecutive operations falls within a first number range, the at least one processor (170) may display at least one of a first icon (1311) and a first text (1321) through the display (1210).

[0112] FIG. 13b is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a display (1210) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display (1210) of FIG. 13b may include a screen that displays a screen. For example, the display (1210) may be formed of an LCD screen.

[0113] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of an information object including at least one of an icon and text, based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of times to which the number of continuous operations belongs. For example, when the number of continuous operations belongs to a second range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of a second icon (1312) based on a second level corresponding to the second range of times. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the size of the second icon (1312) to be larger than the first icon (1311) and set the color of the second icon (1312) to be orange. For example, when the number of continuous operations belongs to the second range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of a second text (1322) based on a second level corresponding to the second range of times. For example, at least one processor (170) may set the content of the second text (1322) to "The filter has been used for a long time without being cleaned. Please clean the filter immediately. If the filter is not cleaned, the drying performance may deteriorate."

[0114] At least one processor (170) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment may generate an information object having at least one of size, color, and content set as a notification. For example, at least one processor (170) may generate a second icon (1312) and a second text (1322) as a notification corresponding to a second level.

[0115] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may display the generated notification through the display (1210). For example, if the number of consecutive operations falls within a second number range, the at least one processor (170) may display at least one of a second icon (1312) and a second text (1322) through the display (1210).

[0116] FIG. 14A is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a display (1210) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display (1210) of FIG. 14A may include a light-emitting element that emits light. For example, the display (1210) may be composed of five LED lamps. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display (1210) may include at least one LED lamp.

[0117] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the size of the information object, the color of the information object, and the content of the information object based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of times the number of continuous operations falls within. For example, when the number of times the number of continuous operations falls within a first range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, the color, and the content of the first information object (1410) based on a first level corresponding to the first range of times. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the color of the first information object (1410) to green, and set the content of the first information object (1410) to a pattern in which one leftmost point among five points lights up.

[0118] At least one processor (170) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment may generate an information object having at least one of size, color, and content set as a notification. For example, at least one processor (170) may generate a first information object (1410) as a notification corresponding to a first level.

[0119] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may display the generated notification through the display (1210). For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a first number range, the at least one processor (170) may display a first information object (1410) through the display (1210). For example, the at least one processor (170) may control the display (1210) so that one leftmost LED lamp among five LED lamps included in the display (1210) lights up in green to display the first information object (1410).

[0120] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a display (1210) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display (1210) of FIG. 14B may include a light-emitting element that emits light. For example, the display (1210) may be composed of five LED lamps. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display (1210) may include at least one LED lamp.

[0121] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the size of the information object, the color of the information object, and the content of the information object based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of times the number of continuous operations falls within. For example, when the number of times the number of continuous operations falls within a second range of times, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the size, color, and content of the second information object (1420) based on a second level corresponding to the second range of times. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the color of the second information object (1420) to orange, and may set the content of the second information object (1420) to a pattern in which four points from the left out of five points light up.

[0122] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may generate an information object having at least one of size, color, and content set as a notification. For example, at least one processor (170) may generate a second information object (1420) as a notification corresponding to a second level.

[0123] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may display the generated notification through the display (1210). For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a second number range, the at least one processor (170) may display a second information object (1420) through the display (1210). For example, the at least one processor (170) may control the display (1210) to cause four LED lamps from the left among five LED lamps included in the display (1210) to light in orange to display the second information object (1420).

[0124] Hereinafter, the structure of a dryer (100) according to the present disclosure including a speaker (1510) will be described in conjunction with FIG. 15.

[0125] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] In one embodiment, the dryer (100) may include a speaker (1510). The speaker (1510) may be disposed on the front of the dryer (100) where the door (180) is disposed. For example, the speaker (1510) may be disposed above the door (180) on the front of the dryer (100). The speaker (1510) may output information related to the operation type of the dryer (100) through voice. For example, the speaker (1510) may output information related to the current operation course of the dryer (100) through voice. The speaker (1510) may output information related to the status of the filter (160) through voice. For example, the speaker (1510) may output information related to whether the filter (160) is detached or attached through voice. In addition, the speaker (1510) may output a notification provided to the user through voice when the dryer (100) is operating. For example, when the dryer (100) starts operating, the speaker (1510) can output a notification in the form of a voice guiding the user to separate the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and clean it. The user can hear the notification output in the form of a voice from the speaker (1510) and be reminded that the filter (160) must be separated from the dryer (100) and cleaned when the dryer (100) starts operating.

[0127] Hereinafter, the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure providing an auditory notification according to the level from the speaker (1510) will be described in conjunction with FIGS. 16a and 16b.

[0128] FIG. 16a is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a speaker (1510) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the volume and voice content of the notification based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of consecutive operations. For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a first range of the number of consecutive operations, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the volume and voice content of the first notification (1621) based on a first level corresponding to the first range of the number of consecutive operations. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the volume of the first notification (1621) to 1 and set the voice content of the first notification (1621) to “Please separate the filter from the dryer and clean it when using it.”

[0130] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may output a notification through the speaker (1510) of the dryer (100). For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a first range, the at least one processor (170) may output a first notification (1621) through the speaker (1510). Additionally, the at least one processor (170) may also guide the user through the first interface (1611) that the volume level is 1.

[0131] FIG. 16b is a diagram illustrating a notification provided by a speaker (1510) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the volume and voice content of the notification based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of consecutive operations. For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range of the number of consecutive operations, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the volume and voice content of the second notification (1622) based on a second level corresponding to the second range of the number of consecutive operations. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the volume of the second notification (1622) to 4, and set the voice content of the second notification (1622) to “The filter has been used for a long time without being cleaned. Please clean the filter immediately. If the filter is not cleaned, drying performance may deteriorate.”

[0133] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may output a notification through the speaker (1510) of the dryer (100). For example, if the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range, the at least one processor (170) may output a second notification (1622) through the speaker (1510). Additionally, the at least one processor (170) may also inform the user through the second interface (1612) that the volume level is 4.

[0134] Hereinafter, the haptic driving unit (1710) included in the input / output interface (220) of the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure will be described in connection with FIG. 17 to provide tactile notification according to level.

[0135] Fig. 17 is a block diagram illustrating an input / output interface (220) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The input / output interface (220) according to one embodiment may include a haptic driving unit (1710).

[0136] In one embodiment, the input / output interface (220) may be disposed on the outside of the door (180) or on the body surface of the dryer (100). The input / output interface (220) may include at least one switch. The input / output interface (220) may receive a user's input and output information related to the operation of the dryer (100). For example, at least one switch included in the input / output interface (220) may receive a user's push input for setting an operation mode of the dryer (100) and operating the dryer (100).

[0137] In one embodiment, the haptic driver (1710) may be disposed within the input / output interface (220) or adjacent to the input / output interface (220). For example, the haptic driver (1710) may be disposed below at least one switch included in the input / output interface (220). For example, the haptic driver (1710) may be disposed on the side of at least one switch included in the input / output interface (220). The haptic driver (1710) may provide a tactile output, such as a vibration. For example, the haptic driver (1710) may receive a haptic feedback signal from at least one processor (170). The haptic driver (1710) may provide a tactile output, such as a vibration, in response to the received haptic feedback signal.

[0138] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the vibration intensity and the vibration time of the notification based on a level corresponding to a range of the number of consecutive operations. For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a first range of operations, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the vibration intensity and the vibration time of the first notification based on a first level corresponding to the first range of operations. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the vibration intensity of the first notification to 1 and the vibration time of the first notification to 3 seconds. For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range of operations, the at least one processor (170) may set at least one of the vibration intensity and the vibration time of the second notification based on a second level corresponding to the second range of operations. For example, the at least one processor (170) may set the vibration intensity of the second notification to 2 and the vibration time of the second notification to 5 seconds.

[0139] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may output a notification through the haptic driving unit (1710). For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range, the at least one processor (170) may output a first notification through the haptic driving unit (1710). For example, when the number of consecutive operations falls within a second range, the at least one processor (170) may output a second notification through the haptic driving unit (1710).

[0140] Hereinafter, the contents of determining that cleaning of the filter (160) has not been performed when the time for re-installation of the filter (160) after disassembly is less than the minimum threshold time according to the present disclosure of the dryer (100) will be explained in conjunction with FIG. 18.

[0141] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method for counting the number of consecutive operations according to the time interval between the separation and mounting points of a filter (160) of a dryer (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) can identify a first time point at which the filter (160) is detached and a second time point at which the filter (160) is remounted in operation 1810. The sensor (150) of the dryer (100) can detect a detachment event in which the filter (160) is detached from the dryer (100). The sensor (150) can generate a detachment detection signal including a first time point at which the detachment event occurs and transmit the signal to the at least one processor (170). The sensor (150) can detect a remounting event in which the filter (160) is remounted to the dryer (100). The sensor (150) can generate a mounting detection signal including a second time point at which the remounting event occurs and transmit the signal to the at least one processor (170). The at least one processor (170) can receive the detachment detection signal and the mounting detection signal. At least one processor (170) can acquire a first point in time included in the separation detection signal. At least one processor (170) can acquire a second point in time included in the mounting detection signal.

[0143] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) may determine whether a time interval between a first time point and a second time point is less than or equal to a minimum threshold interval in operation 1820. The minimum threshold interval may be a time set in consideration of the minimum time required for a user to clean the filter (160). For example, the minimum threshold interval may be 10 seconds. For example, the minimum threshold interval may be a value stored in the memory (210) during the manufacturing of the dryer (100), or a value input by the user during the initial setting of the dryer (100). If the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is longer than the minimum threshold interval (operation 1820 - No), the at least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1830. If the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to the minimum threshold interval (operation 1820 - Yes), the at least one processor (170) may proceed to operation 1840.

[0144] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may initialize a count of the number of consecutive operations at operation 1830. The at least one processor (170) may determine that a user has enough time to clean the filter (160) after detaching the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and before reattaching the filter (160) to the dryer (100) if the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is longer than the minimum threshold interval. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the filter (160) has been cleaned during the detachment and attachment process of the filter (160) if the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is longer than the minimum threshold interval. Since the cleaning of the filter (160) is completed, the at least one processor (170) may initialize a count of the number of consecutive operations indicating the number of times the filter (160) has been operated in an uncleaned state.

[0145] At least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) according to one embodiment may maintain a count of the number of consecutive operations in operation 1840. The at least one processor (170) may determine that there is not enough time for the user to clean the filter (160) after the filter (160) is detached from the dryer (100) and before the filter (160) is reattached to the dryer (100) if the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to the minimum threshold interval. The at least one processor (170) may determine that the filter (160) is not cleaned even if the filter (160) has been detached and attached if the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to the minimum threshold interval. Since the filter (160) is not cleaned, the at least one processor (170) may maintain a count of the number of consecutive operations indicating the number of times the filter (160) has been operated in an uncleaned state. At least one processor (170) may increase the number of consecutive operations based on the operation type when the dryer (100) is operated later. In this way, at least one processor (170) may determine whether the time interval between the time of detachment and the time of mounting of the filter (160) is less than or equal to a minimum threshold interval, thereby determining whether the filter (160) has been substantially cleaned.

[0146] In the detailed descriptions in conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 18, it is described that at least one processor (170) of the dryer (100) performs an operation for checking whether a filter (160) is detached and mounted, an operation for checking an operation type, an operation for increasing the number of consecutive operations, and an operation for controlling the provision of notifications. However, this is not limited thereto, and the dryer (100) may perform at least some of the above-described operations using a server.

[0147] In addition, in the detailed descriptions combining FIGS. 1 to 18, it is described that notifications are provided from the input / output interface (220) of the dryer (100), the display (1210) of the dryer (100), the speaker (1510) of the dryer (100), and the haptic drive unit (1710) of the dryer (100). However, this is not limited thereto, and the dryer (100) may provide notifications through an external device.

[0148] Hereinafter, the dryer (100) according to the present disclosure performs at least some of the above-described operations using an external server and provides notifications through an external device.

[0149] In one embodiment, the dryer (100) may include a communication circuit. The dryer (100) may communicate with an external device through the communication circuit. The dryer (100) may be connected to a server to communicate with the external device. The server may form a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet. The dryer (100) may be connected to the server through an access point (AP). The access point (AP) may form a local area network (LAN) to which the dryer (100) is connected.

[0150] In one embodiment, an access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the dryer (100) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The dryer (100) may be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0151] In one embodiment, the server can establish a wireless communication connection with an external device. The external device may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone, but is not limited thereto. The external device may be any electronic device that supports wireless communication. The external device may include a display that displays information received from the server via wireless communication.

[0152] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may transmit information related to whether the filter (160) is detached and mounted to the server via the communication circuit. At least one processor (170) may transmit information related to the drying operation type of the dryer (100) to the server via the communication circuit.

[0153] In one embodiment, the server may receive information related to whether the filter (160) is detached and mounted from the dryer (100) and information related to the drying operation type of the dryer (100). Based on the drying operation type of the dryer (100), the server may increase the number of consecutive operations indicating the number of times the dryer (100) has operated while maintaining the state in which the filter (160) of the dryer (100) has not been cleaned. The server may transmit information related to the number of consecutive operations to an external device.

[0154] In one embodiment, the external device may receive information related to the number of consecutive operations from the server. Based on the number of consecutive operations of the dryer (100), the external device may provide a notification guiding the user to separate and clean the filter (160) from the dryer (100). For example, if the external device is a portable terminal such as a smart phone, the external device may output at least one of a screen, a push notification, a voice notification, and a vibration notification guiding the user to separate and clean the filter (160) from the dryer (100).

[0155] According to one embodiment, a dryer (100) may include a drum (110), a blower module (140) for generating an air flow that is introduced into the interior of the drum (110), a filter (160) for filtering foreign substances contained in air discharged from the drum (110) by the air flow, an input / output interface (220), a memory (210) for storing at least one instruction, and at least one processor (170). According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine, by executing at least one instruction, whether the separation and attachment of the filter (160) has been performed after a previous drying operation. According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may increase the number of continuous operations based on a drying operation type of the dryer (100) in response to the fact that the separation and attachment of the filter (160) has not been performed. At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment can control the input / output interface (220) to provide a notification guiding the removal of the filter (160) from the dryer (100) for cleaning based on the number of consecutive operations.

[0156] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may provide a notification at a level corresponding to at least one of a plurality of count ranges based on whether the number of consecutive operations falls within at least one of the plurality of count ranges.

[0157] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value of the number of consecutive operations based on a range of lint generation amounts according to a drying operation type.

[0158] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) may determine an increase value for the number of consecutive operations based on the weight of laundry received in the drum (110) during operation of the dryer (100).

[0159] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can measure the weight of laundry received in the drum (110) of the dryer (100) when the dryer (100) is in operation. According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can determine whether the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number. According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can perform drying for an amount of time that is an additional time added to the expected operation time determined based on the weight of the laundry, based on whether the number of continuous operations is greater than or equal to the threshold number.

[0160] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can determine the difference between the expected operating time and the actual operating time. According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can generate a detection event that determines that the filter is clogged based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold time. According to one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can provide a notification at a level corresponding to the number of occurrences of the detection event.

[0161] In one embodiment, the input / output interface (220) may include a display (1210). At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the size of an information object including at least one of an icon and text, the color of the information object, and the content of the information object based on a level. At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may generate an information object having at least one of the size, color, and content set as a notification. At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may display the notification through the display (1210).

[0162] In one embodiment, the input / output interface (220) may include a speaker (1510). At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the volume and voice content of the notification based on the level. At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may output the notification through the speaker (1510).

[0163] In one embodiment, the input / output interface (220) may include a haptic driver (1710). At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may set at least one of the vibration intensity and vibration time of the notification based on the level. At least one processor (170) according to one embodiment may output the notification through the haptic driver (1710).

[0164] In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can identify a first time point for detaching the filter (160) and a second time point for re-mounting the filter (160). In one embodiment, at least one processor (170) can maintain the number of consecutive operations when the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to a minimum threshold interval.

[0165] A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for determining whether the removal and attachment of a filter (160) of the dryer (100) has been performed after a previous drying operation. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for increasing the number of consecutive operations based on a drying operation type of the dryer (100) in response to the fact that the removal and attachment of the filter (160) has not been performed. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for controlling an input / output interface (220) of the dryer (100) to provide a notification guiding the user to remove and clean the filter (160) from the dryer (100) based on the number of consecutive operations.

[0166] An operation of providing a notification according to an embodiment may include an operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one of a plurality of count ranges based on the number of consecutive operations falling within at least one of a plurality of count ranges.

[0167] An operation for increasing the number of consecutive operations according to one embodiment may include an operation for determining an increase value of the number of consecutive operations based on a range of lint generation amounts according to a drying operation type.

[0168] An operation for increasing the number of continuous operations according to one embodiment may include an operation for determining an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) of the dryer (100) during operation of the dryer (100).

[0169] A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for measuring the weight of laundry received in a drum (110) of the dryer (100) when the dryer (100) is in operation. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for checking whether the number of continuous operations is equal to or greater than a threshold number. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for performing drying for an amount of time that is an additional time added to an expected operation time determined based on the weight of the laundry, based on whether the number of continuous operations is equal to or greater than the threshold number.

[0170] A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for determining a difference value between an expected operating time and an actual operating time. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for generating a detection event for determining that a filter (160) is clogged based on a difference value being greater than or equal to a threshold time. A method for controlling a dryer (100) according to an embodiment may include an operation for providing a notification at a level corresponding to the number of occurrences of the detection event.

[0171] An operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to an embodiment may include an operation of setting at least one of a size of an information object including at least one of an icon and text, a color of the information object, and content of the information object based on the level. An operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to an embodiment may include an operation of creating an information object having at least one of a size, a color, and content set as a notification. An operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to an embodiment may include an operation of displaying the notification through a display (1210) of the dryer (100).

[0172] The operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to one embodiment may include an operation of setting at least one of the volume level and the voice content of the notification based on the level. The operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to one embodiment may include an operation of outputting the notification through the speaker (1510) of the dryer (100).

[0173] The operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to one embodiment may include an operation of setting at least one of the vibration intensity and vibration time of the notification based on the level. The operation of providing a notification at a level corresponding to at least one frequency range according to one embodiment may include an operation of outputting the notification through the haptic drive unit (1710) of the dryer (100).

[0174] The operation of determining whether the separation and mounting of the filter (160) according to one embodiment has been performed may include an operation of identifying a first time point of separating the filter (160) and a second time point of remounting the filter (160). The operation of determining whether the separation and mounting of the filter (160) according to one embodiment may include an operation of maintaining the number of consecutive operations when the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to a minimum threshold interval.

[0175] A dryer and a control method thereof according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can have the effect of providing a notification corresponding to the degree of need for filter cleaning in a stepwise manner according to the situation.

[0176] A dryer and a control method thereof according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can have the effect of effectively providing a user with an alert regarding the need for filter cleaning, thereby reducing the phenomenon of performance degradation of the dryer due to non-cleaning of the filter.

[0177] A method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the present disclosure or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc.

[0178] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. Furthermore, some embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented as a computer program or computer program product containing computer-executable instructions, such as a computer program that is executed by a computer.

[0179] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

Claims

1. In the dryer (100), drum (110); A blower module (140) that creates an air flow that flows into the interior of the drum (110); A filter (160) that filters foreign substances contained in the air discharged from the drum (110) by the air flow; Input / output interface (220); A memory (210) storing at least one instruction; and comprising at least one processor (170), The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Determine whether the removal and installation of the filter (160) has been performed after the previous drying operation, In response to the fact that the separation and mounting of the filter (160) is not performed, the number of consecutive operations is increased based on the drying operation type of the dryer (100). A dryer (100) that controls the input / output interface (220) to provide a notification guiding the removal of the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and cleaning it based on the number of consecutive operations.

2. In paragraph 1, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, A dryer (100) that provides the notification at a level corresponding to at least one of a plurality of number of times, based on the number of consecutive operations falling within at least one of a plurality of number of times ranges.

3. In at least one of paragraphs 1 and 2, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, A dryer (100) that determines an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on a range of lint generation amounts according to the drying operation type.

4. In at least one of clauses 1 to 3, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, A dryer (100) that determines an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) during operation of the dryer (100).

5. In at least one of clauses 1 to 4, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, When the above dryer (100) is in operation, the weight of the laundry contained in the drum (110) of the above dryer (100) is measured, Check whether the number of consecutive operations above is greater than or equal to the threshold number, A dryer (100) that performs drying for an amount of time that is an additional time added to the expected operation time determined based on the weight of the laundry, based on the number of the continuous operation being greater than or equal to the threshold number.

6. In paragraph 5, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Check the difference between the expected operation time and the actual operation time above, Based on the difference value being greater than or equal to a threshold time, a detection event is generated in which the filter (160) is judged to be blocked, A dryer (100) providing the above notification at a level corresponding to the number of occurrences of the above detection event.

7. In at least one of clauses 2 to 6, The above input / output interface (220) includes a display (1210), The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Based on the above level, setting at least one of the size of an information object including at least one of an icon and text, the color of the information object, and the content of the information object; Create the information object with at least one of the above size, the above color, and the above content set as the above notification, A dryer (100) that displays the above notification through the above display (1210).

8. In at least one of clauses 2 to 7, The above input / output interface (220) includes a speaker (1510), The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Based on the above level, set at least one of the volume size and voice content of the above notification, A dryer (100) that outputs the above notification through the speaker (1510).

9. In at least one of clauses 2 to 8, The above input / output interface (220) includes a haptic driving unit (1710), The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Based on the above level, at least one of the vibration intensity and vibration time of the notification is set, A dryer (100) that outputs the above notification through the haptic driving unit (1710).

10. In at least one of clauses 1 to 9, The at least one processor (170) executes the at least one instruction, Identify the first time point of detaching the filter (160) and the second time point of re-mounting the filter (160), A dryer (100) that maintains the number of consecutive operations when the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is less than or equal to the minimum threshold interval.

11. In the control method of the dryer (100), An operation for determining whether the removal and installation of the filter (160) of the dryer (100) has been performed after the previous drying operation; In response to the fact that the separation and mounting of the filter (160) is not performed, an operation of increasing the number of consecutive operations based on the drying operation type of the dryer (100); and A method including an operation of controlling an input / output interface (220) of the dryer (100) to provide a notification guiding the removal of the filter (160) from the dryer (100) and cleaning it based on the number of consecutive operations.

12. In paragraph 11, The action that provides the above notification is: A method comprising: providing the notification at a level corresponding to at least one of a plurality of count ranges, based on the number of said consecutive operations falling within at least one of a plurality of count ranges.

13. In at least one of paragraphs 11 and 12, The action that increases the number of consecutive actions above is, A method including an operation of determining an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on a range of lint generation amounts according to the drying operation type.

14. In at least one of clauses 11 to 13, The action that increases the number of consecutive actions above is, A method including an operation of determining an increase value of the number of continuous operations based on the weight of laundry accommodated in the drum (110) of the dryer (100) during operation of the dryer (100).

15. In at least one of paragraphs 11 to 14, An operation of measuring the weight of laundry contained in the drum (110) of the dryer (100) when the dryer (100) is in operation; An operation for checking whether the number of consecutive operations is greater than or equal to a threshold number; and A method further comprising an operation of performing drying for an amount of time that is an additional time added to an expected operation time determined based on the weight of the laundry, based on the number of said continuous operations being greater than or equal to the threshold number of times.

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