Door for home appliance and method for controlling door for home appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a door for a home appliance and a method for controlling the door for the home appliance. The present invention may comprise: a door body disposed in front of a storage space of a home appliance; and a door panel having a transmissive part formed at the center thereof. A transmittance-variable part may be disposed between a plurality of panels to overlap at least a portion of the transmissive part. A sensing module for sensing vibration caused by a knock input to the door body or the door panel may be disposed. At this time, a control part may control the on / off of the transmittance-variable part by using a signal detected by the sensing module. Accordingly, a user can switch between a blocking mode and a transmissive mode of the transmittance-variable part only by tapping the surface of the door, thereby enhancing the convenience of operating the home appliance.

Description

Doors for home appliances and control methods for doors for home appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a door for a home appliance and a method for controlling a door for a home appliance.

[0002] Home appliances with doors that accommodate objects within their internal spaces, such as cooking appliances, refrigerators, and clothes washers, are widely used. These appliances may have a cabinet that forms the exterior, with a storage space for the object and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

[0003] Recently, home appliance doors are equipped with transparent elements, allowing the user to view the interior of the appliance. For example, a refrigerator door equipped with a transparent element allows the user to observe the food stored in the refrigerator's storage space. Furthermore, if a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDL) film with variable transmittance is applied to the door of such appliances, the door's transmittance can be adjusted. This variable transmittance allows the interior of the storage space to be selectively exposed. Therefore, the user can selectively view the storage space through the PDL film.

[0004] However, since polymer dispersed liquid crystals operate via a power supply, users have the inconvenience of having to press a button to operate them. This means that users must press a button every time they want to observe the interior of a home appliance through the polymer dispersed liquid crystal, reducing convenience.

[0005] The present invention is intended to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and the purpose of the present invention is to provide a door of a home appliance with a variable transmittance portion so that the appearance of a storage space can be selectively transmitted, while allowing a user to switch between the transmission mode and blocking mode of the variable transmittance portion with a simple operation.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to photograph the inside of a storage space by placing an image acquisition device (camera device) on a door, and to automatically control the on / off operation of a transmittance variable part depending on whether the image acquisition device is in operation.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to improve sensing sensitivity by placing a sensor device that detects a user's operation signal inside a door, while ensuring durability of the sensor device in a high-temperature environment inside the door.

[0008] According to a feature of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned object, the present invention may include a door body arranged in front of a storage space of a home appliance, and a door panel having a transparent portion formed in the center. A transmittance variable portion may be arranged between a plurality of panels so as to overlap at least a portion of the transmittance portion. A detection module that detects vibration caused by a knock input to the door body or the door panel may be arranged. At this time, the control unit may control the on / off of the transmittance variable portion based on a signal detected by the detection module. Accordingly, a user can switch the transmittance variable portion between a blocking mode and a transmitting mode simply by knocking on the surface of the door, and the convenience of operating the home appliance may be improved.

[0009] In addition, an electronic component including an image acquisition device for photographing the storage space may be placed in the door body. The detection module may be placed inside the electronic component.

[0010] Alternatively, the door body may be equipped with an image acquisition device that photographs the storage space. When vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit can determine the operating status of the image acquisition device and selectively operate the transmittance variable unit to activate the transmittance mode.

[0011] In addition, the door body may be equipped with a lighting device that irradiates light into the storage space. When vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit may determine the operating status of the lighting device, activate the transmission mode of the transmittance variable unit, and operate the lighting device.

[0012] Alternatively, if multiple vibrations caused by the knock are detected by the detection module with a time difference and the time difference is shorter than a set time, the control unit can activate the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit.

[0013] In addition, the door body may be equipped with an operating unit. When a signal for operating the image acquisition device is input through the operating unit, the control unit can determine the operating state of the transmittance variable unit. At this time, if the transmittance variable unit is in a transmission mode, the control unit can activate the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit and then operate the image acquisition device.

[0014] Alternatively, if the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit can determine the operating status of the image acquisition device. If the image acquisition device is operating, the control unit can notify the user that the image acquisition device is operating.

[0015] And, the detection module can be placed outside the edge of the transmittance variable portion.

[0016] Alternatively, the detection module may be positioned between the plurality of panels, or the detection module may be positioned beyond the edge of the door panel.

[0017] In addition, the plurality of panels may include a front panel and an insulation panel spaced apart from the front panel and positioned closer to the storage space than the front panel. In this case, the detection module may be positioned closer to the front panel than the insulation panel.

[0018] Alternatively, the door panel may be provided with a panel perimeter that surrounds the edge of the transparent portion and has a lower light transmittance than the transparent portion. The detection module may be arranged on the panel perimeter.

[0019] According to another feature of the present invention, the present invention can provide a control method for a door for a home appliance having a transmittance variable portion that varies the transmittance of the door. The control method can include a step of detecting an applied knock by a detection module disposed on the door, and a step of determining an on / off state of the transmittance variable portion when a knock signal is detected by the detection module. At this time, when the knock signal is detected while the transmittance variable portion is in a blocking mode, the control portion can switch the transmittance variable portion to a transmitting mode.

[0020] In addition, the door body may be equipped with an image acquisition device that captures the storage space of the home appliance. When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit may include a step of determining the operating status of the image acquisition device and selectively operating the transmittance variable unit to activate the transmittance mode.

[0021] Alternatively, when multiple vibrations caused by the knock are detected by the detection module with a time difference, the control unit may include a step of activating the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit if the time difference is shorter than a set time.

[0022] The door for a home appliance and the control method for a door for a home appliance according to the present invention as discussed above have the following effects.

[0023] In the present invention, a door for a home appliance may be provided with a variable transmittance portion, so that a transparent mode in which the interior of the home appliance is visible through the door, and a blocking mode in which the interior of the home appliance is not visible, can be implemented. At this time, the door may be provided with a detection module capable of detecting vibrations caused by a knock input to the door, and a control unit may control the on / off of the variable transmittance portion based on a signal detected by the detection module. Accordingly, a user may switch the variable transmittance portion between the blocking mode and the transparent mode simply by knocking on the surface of the door, thereby improving the convenience of operating the home appliance.

[0024] In addition, in the present invention, an image acquisition device (camera device) is placed inside the door to capture images of the interior of the storage space. At this time, the control unit determines whether the image acquisition device is operating, and when the interior of the storage space is captured, switches the transmittance variable unit to blocking mode. Accordingly, the user need not individually control the image acquisition device and the transmittance variable unit. This can further enhance the convenience of operating the home appliance.

[0025] In particular, when the image acquisition device is in operation (capturing), the transmittance variable part automatically switches to blocking mode, thereby preventing the image of the user located in front of the home appliance from being transmitted to the inside of the door and captured by the camera device. Accordingly, the door of the present invention can also prevent the user's privacy from being violated by the camera device's capture.

[0026] In addition, since the transmittance variable part automatically switches to blocking mode when the image acquisition device is in operation (taking pictures), power consumption for operating the transmittance variable part can be reduced. Accordingly, the door for home appliances according to the present invention also has the effect of improving energy efficiency.

[0027] And, in the present invention, the detection module is placed between a plurality of panels constituting the door panel, so that the heat resistance of the detection module can be improved.

[0028] At the same time, the detection module is positioned on the rear of the front panel among the multiple panels, enabling a more sensitive response to the user's knock-on signal. This allows the detection module to more accurately detect the user's operation signal, thereby improving the responsiveness of the door for home appliances.

[0029] In addition, in the present invention, when a knock-on signal is input to switch the transmittance variable unit to a transmission mode while the image acquisition device is in a shooting operation, the control unit can notify the user that the image acquisition device is shooting. In this case, the user can decide whether to (i) stop shooting by the image acquisition device and directly observe the inside of the home appliance with the naked eye by inputting the knock-on signal again, or (ii) continue shooting by the image acquisition device without inputting the knock-on signal. In this case, since the user only needs to input the knock-on signal again, the operation for switching the mode of the refrigerator door can be performed very simply.

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a home appliance to which an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention is applied.

[0031] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of a home appliance to which an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention is applied.

[0032] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the structure of an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0033] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the structure of an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention from a different angle than Fig. 3.

[0034] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an exploded view of parts of an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI' of Figure 3.

[0036] FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 7(b) are exemplary views showing an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention, in which a variable transmittance part is in blocking mode, and an example of a home appliance when the variable transmittance part is in blocking mode.

[0037] FIG. 8(a) and FIG. 8(b) are exemplary views showing an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention, in which a variable transmittance part is in a transmittance mode, and an example of a home appliance when the variable transmittance part is in a transmittance mode.

[0038] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an exploded view of a component of a variable transmittance part constituting an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the cross-sectional structure of a variable transmittance portion constituting one example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 11 is a circuit diagram showing the circuit structure of a variable transmittance part constituting one example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 12 is a front view showing an example of a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a structure in which a variable transmittance part is arranged on a front panel constituting a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of a structure in which a variable transmittance portion is arranged on a front panel constituting a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0044] Figures 15(a) to 15(c) are graphs showing the voltage applied to the transmittance variable part constituting the door for a home appliance according to the present invention and the change in transparency accordingly.

[0045] Fig. 16 is a front view showing a detection module arranged on a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 17 is a front view showing another embodiment in which a detection module is arranged on a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0047] Figure 18 is a block diagram schematically showing the components that constitute a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0048] Figures 19 to 22 are graphs illustrating a control method for a door for a home appliance according to the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of a home appliance to which a door for home appliances according to the present invention is applied.

[0050] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0051] The present invention relates to a home appliance and a door for the home appliance (hereinafter referred to as "door (60)"). Here, the home appliance may mean one having a storage space (41) inside. The door (60) may be arranged in front of the storage space (41). Here, the front refers to a direction facing a user when the user is positioned in front of the home appliance. Referring to Fig. 1, the X-axis direction may be the front. The Y-axis direction may be the left-right width direction of the door (60). The Z-axis direction may be the vertical width direction, which is the height direction of the door (60). The following description will be made based on these directions.

[0052] The above-described door (60) for home appliances can be applied not only to doors (60) of home appliances such as cooking appliances, refrigerators, freezers, kimchi refrigerators, plant cultivation devices, clothes processors, washing machines, and dryers, but can also be applied to doors or entrance doors of furniture. The present invention can be applied to various home appliances equipped with one or more doors (60). Among these, cooking appliances can include sealed cooking appliances such as ovens and microwave ovens. Hereinafter, the application of the door (60) of the present invention to cooking appliances will be described as an example.

[0053] In this embodiment, electronic components may be placed inside the door (60). The electronic components may provide various functions to the door (60). For example, when the electronic components are electronic component units (100, see FIG. 2), an internal image of the storage space (41) may be acquired through the electronic component unit (100). The door (60) may increase the internal illuminance of the storage space (41). To this end, the electronic component unit (100) may be equipped with an image acquisition device (120) and a lighting device (130).

[0054] For reference, referring to Fig. 4, the lighting device (130) is positioned on both sides with the image acquisition device (120) in between. The lighting device (130) may include a plurality of lights (130a, 130b). At this time, the plurality of lights (130a, 130b) may irradiate light in different directions.

[0055] As another example, a display device (not shown) made of electronic components may be placed on the door (60). The display device can provide information about the home appliance to the user. The user can input operating commands through the display device.

[0056] The electronic component unit (100) or a part of the display device may be provided inside the door (60). At this time, the electronic component unit (100) or the electronic component such as the display device may exchange electric signals with the main control unit provided in the main body (10) of the home appliance, or may be connected to the main body (10) by a wire for power supply. Hereinafter, the electronic component arranged in the door (60) will be described as the electronic component unit (100) as an example.

[0057] For reference, in FIG. 4, the front panel (Ga) constituting the front of the door (60) is viewed through, and the electronic component unit (100) and the harness guide (160) for supplying power to the electronic component unit (100) are expressed. In reality, the electronic component unit (100) and the harness guide (160) are arranged inside the door (60), so they are not exposed from the front of the door (60). Referring to FIG. 4, a wire storage portion (WG) in which a wire harness (not shown) is stored is formed inside the harness guide (160).

[0058] Referring to Fig. 1, the front of the cooking appliance of the present embodiment may include a door (60) and an operating unit (15). Reference numeral 16 represents a display unit exposed on the front of the operating unit (15). The image acquisition device (120) and the transmittance variable unit (200) described above may be arranged inside the door (60). The home appliance may be a built-in home appliance. For example, the home appliance may be a cooking appliance installed in a built-in manner.

[0059] Referring to Fig. 2, the direction in which external light is transmitted into the interior of the door (60) is represented by an arrow. Here, the external light may be visible light reflected by an external object placed outside the home appliance. The path along which the visible light passes through the front panel (Ga) of the door (60) and is reflected inside the door (60) is represented by a dotted arrow (arrow ①), and the path along which the visible light does not reach the interior of the door (60) and is reflected again is represented by a solid arrow (arrow ②). In this way, in the present embodiment, external visible light may enter or be blocked into the interior of the door (60), and this difference may be achieved by the transmittance variable portion (200) described below. In Fig. 2, F' represents a user as an external object.

[0060] The above-described transmittance variable portion (200) can allow external visible light to pass through the transmitting portion (V) formed on the front panel (Ga) of the door (60), or can prevent visible light from passing through the transmitting portion (V). At this time, the state in which visible light does not pass through the transmitting portion (V) is referred to as a blocking mode, and the state in which visible light passes through is referred to as a transmitting mode. In other words, the state in which visible light does not pass through the transmitting portion (V) can be regarded as a first state, and the state in which visible light passes through can be regarded as a second state.

[0061] When the above transmittance variable part (200) is in the transmission mode, external visible light can pass through the front panel (Ga) of the door (60) and the above transmittance variable part (200) and enter the interior of the door (60). When the external visible light enters the interior of the door (60), it can reach the image acquisition device (120) while being reflected inside the door (60) (see the path of the dotted arrow (①) in FIG. 2). More precisely, the external visible light can reach the image acquisition device (120) after being reflected on the surface of another panel arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga). Accordingly, an image of an external object (F', see FIG. 2) can be formed on the image acquisition device (120).

[0062] Conversely, when the transmittance variable portion (200) is in blocking mode, external visible light is reflected by the transmittance variable portion (200) positioned at the rear of the front panel (Ga) and cannot enter the interior of the door (60), and thus external visible light cannot reach the image acquisition device (120). The structure and operation of the transmittance variable portion (200) will be described again below.

[0063] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the present invention. For reference, Fig. 2 illustrates a storage space (41) formed inside the inner casing (40) of the home appliance in a transparent manner. The inner casing (40) may be provided inside the main body (10). The inner casing (40) may be covered by a side cover (12) of the main body (10), etc.

[0064] A cooking object (F, see FIG. 2) may be placed in the storage space (41). The cooking object (F) may not be visible from the outside, i.e., in front of the door (60). In the present embodiment, the door (60) is provided with a transparent portion (V), so that the user can observe the inside of the storage space (41) through the transparent portion (V). However, if the illuminance of the storage space (41) is low, it is difficult for the user to accurately observe the inside of the storage space (41) with the naked eye. In the present embodiment, since the electronic component includes a lighting device (130), the illuminance of the storage space (41) can be sufficiently increased. For reference, when the transmittance variable portion (200) is in a transparent mode, external visible light can pass through the transparent portion (V).

[0065] At this time, the light irradiated from the lighting device (130) may be reflected from the inner wall of the storage space (41) and then transmitted to the door (60) again. The light transmitted to the door (60) in this way may expose components arranged at the rear of the door (60) toward the user. In the present embodiment, the door (60) is provided with a panel perimeter (PA) surrounding the edge of the transmission portion (V), thereby preventing exposure of these components. The panel perimeter (PA) may be formed to be opaque or translucent surrounding the transmission portion (V). The transmittance variable portion (200) may be arranged closer to the center of the door (60) than the panel perimeter (PA). The structure of the panel perimeter (PA) will be examined in detail again below.

[0066] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment of a door (60) according to the present invention. For reference, in the drawings, reference numeral "I" indicates the inside of the door (60), i.e., the direction of the storage space (41), and reference numeral "O" indicates the outside of the door (60), i.e., the exterior of the home appliance. For reference, FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a structure in which the rear frame (80), inner frame (90), and insulation panel (IP), which constitute the door body (70, 80, 90) of the door (60), are omitted.

[0067] The front of the door (60) may be composed of a front frame (70), a front panel (Ga), and a door handle (75) to be described below. The front panel (Ga) and the door handle (75) may be respectively coupled to the front frame (70). Here, the front panel (Ga) is made of a transparent or translucent material, so that the storage space (41) can be seen through. Only a portion of the front panel (Ga) can be seen through in the front and rear directions.

[0068] In Fig. 3, the arrow indicates the direction in which visible light passes through the door (60). Visible light from outside the home appliance can selectively pass through the transparent portion (V) of the door (60). The transmittance variable portion (200) arranged at the rear of the transparent portion (V) can selectively allow visible light to pass through. By the user's operation or the automatic control of the main control unit, the transmittance variable portion (200) can be switched from the blocking mode to the transmitting mode, thereby allowing visible light to pass through.

[0069] A door handle (75) is provided on the front of the door (60). The door handle (75) is a part that a user holds when opening the door (60). In the present embodiment, the door (60) can be operated in a pull-down manner in which the upper portion rotates up and down around the lower portion. The user can open the door (60) downward by holding the door handle (75) and pulling the door handle (75). As another example, the door (60) can be operated in a side-swing manner in which it opens to the side.

[0070] Referring to Fig. 4, a view of the door (60) as viewed from the rear is illustrated. A transparent portion (V) is formed in the center of the door (60). The transparent portion (V) is for viewing the storage space (41). The transparent portion (V) may be formed in the center of the door panel (G). More precisely, the door panel (G) is composed of a plurality of panels (Ga, Gb, Gc), and the transparent portion (V) may be formed in the center of each of the plurality of panels (Ga, Gb, Gc). The door panel (G) may be made of a material that can transmit light, such as glass.

[0071] In this embodiment, a transmission portion (V) is formed at the center of the front panel (Ga), and a printing area is formed on the periphery of the transmission portion (V). The printing area becomes the panel periphery (PA) described above, and the panel periphery (PA) may not transmit the door (60) in the front-back direction, or may transmit only a very small amount of light. At this time, the transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged on the surface of the front panel (Ga), so as to block or transmit visible light passing through the transmission portion (V). That is, the periphery of the front panel (Ga) may have visible light blocked by the panel periphery (PA), and the center (transmission portion (V)) of the front panel (Ga) may have visible light blocked by the transmittance variable portion (200).

[0072] Among the plurality of panels (Ga, Gb, Gc), a front panel (Ga) may be formed with a panel perimeter (PA) that surrounds the edge of the transparent portion (V). The panel perimeter (PA) prevents the storage space (41) from being seen through. In Fig. 4, the panel perimeter (PA) may include an upper perimeter (PA1) that surrounds the upper edge of the transparent portion (V), a lower perimeter (PA2) that surrounds the lower edge of the transparent portion (V), and side perimeters (PA3) that surround both end edges of the transparent portion (V). The upper perimeter (PA1), the lower perimeter (PA2), and the side perimeters (PA3) are connected to each other to form an approximately rectangular shape. In other words, the upper circumference (PA1) may be referred to as the first circumference, the lower circumference (PA2) may be referred to as the second circumference, and the side circumference (PA3) may be referred to as the third circumference.

[0073] The above panel perimeter (PA) can prevent components arranged on the rear side of the front panel (Ga) from being exposed. For example, the panel perimeter (PA) can cover the inner frame (90) and the electronic component unit (100) which will be described later. In the present embodiment, the electronic component unit (100) is arranged on the rear side of the upper perimeter (PA1). For reference, although FIG. 12 illustrates the electronic component unit (100) covered by the panel perimeter (PA) in a transparent manner, in reality, the electronic component unit (100) is covered by the panel perimeter (PA). The panel perimeter (PA) not only covers the components, but can also be printed with a specific color or shape to enhance the aesthetics of the door (60). The structure of the panel perimeter (PA) will be described again below.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 4, the transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged on the inside of the panel perimeter (PA). The transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged closer to the center of the front panel (Ga) than the panel perimeter (PA), so as to cover the transparent portion (V). The transmittance variable portion (200) may be arranged on the surface of the front panel (Ga) on which the panel perimeter (PA) is printed, i.e., on the rear surface of the front panel (Ga).

[0075] A front opening (72) may be formed at the center of the front frame (70). The front opening (72) penetrates the center of the front frame (70) and exposes a portion of the front panel (Ga). The front opening (72) may expose the transmission portion (V), a portion of the panel perimeter (PA), and the transmittance variable portion (200).

[0076] Let's take a detailed look at the components that make up this embodiment with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. The door body (70, 80, 90) that forms the skeleton of the door (60) may be configured to include a plurality of frame components. In this embodiment, the door body (70, 80, 90) may include a front frame (70), a rear frame (80), and an inner frame (90). These may be combined with each other to form a single door body (70, 80, 90). Here, "front" refers to the front of the door (60) (right side based on FIG. 5).

[0077] The front frame (70) may be arranged at the front of the door body (70, 80, 90). More precisely, the front frame (70) may form a front skeleton of the door body (70, 80, 90). The front frame (70) includes a front frame body (71) having a substantially rectangular shape. A front opening (72) may be formed through the center of the front frame body (71) to expose the door panel (G). A front bracket (73) protrudes from the lower end of the front frame body (71), and the front bracket (73) may be coupled with a rear bracket (83) of a rear frame (80) to be described later. Reference numeral 74 denotes a side cover, and the harness guide (160) may be accommodated inside the side cover (74).

[0078] Among the two surfaces of the front frame (70), the front panel (Ga) is adhered to the rear surface (71B) of the front frame (70). Since the circumference of the front frame (70) is wider than the circumference of the front panel (Ga), even if the front panel (Ga) is adhered to the rear surface (71B) of the front frame (70), an installation area that is not covered by the front panel (Ga) is formed on the rear surface (71B) of the front frame (70). The installation area (not shown) may be formed on the surface of the door body (70, 80, 90) that extends beyond the edge of the door panel (G).

[0079] The door body (70, 80, 90) may be provided with a door hinge (78). FIG. 5 illustrates the door hinge (78) in an exploded state, and FIG. 6 illustrates the door hinge (78) positioned between the front frame (70) and the inner frame (90). A hinge hook arm (78a) may protrude from the door hinge (78).

[0080] A rear frame (80) may be coupled to the front frame (70) with the door panel (G) interposed therebetween. The rear frame (80) includes a rear frame body (81) having a substantially square frame shape. When the door (60) is closed, the rear frame (80) may face the opened entrance of the storage space (41). A rear opening (82) may be opened at the center of the rear frame body (81). The rear opening (82) may have a structure that is opened in the front and rear directions so that the transparent portion (V) may see through the inside of the storage space (41). Drawing reference numeral 88 indicates a hanging arm passage hole through which the hinge hanging arm (78a) protrudes. A rear fastening hole (87) may be formed in the rear frame (80). The above rear fastening hole (87) is the part through which the door (60) fastening hole (not shown) passes.

[0081] A cooling channel (85) may be formed in the rear frame (80). Air introduced into the door (60) through the cooling channel may be transferred to the main body (10) of the cooking appliance, thereby performing a cooling function. Conversely, heat from the main body (10) of the cooking appliance may be introduced into the cooling channel (85), then passed through the interior of the door (60) and discharged to the outside.

[0082] The rear opening (82) of the rear frame (80) does not cover the transparent portion (V), but may cover a part of the electronic component unit (100). More precisely, through the rear opening (82), the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130) constituting the electronic component unit (100) are exposed toward the rear storage space (41) (based on the closed state), but a part of the electronic component unit (100) corresponding to the upper portion of the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130) may be covered by the rear frame (80). Accordingly, even if a user opens the door (60), the remaining portion excluding the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130) may not be exposed through the transparent portion (V).

[0083] The inner frame (90) may be coupled to the rear frame (80). The inner frame (90) may be positioned between the rear frame (80) and the front frame (70). The rear panel (IP) may be positioned between the inner frame (90) and the rear frame (80). Insulators (97, 98) may also be positioned between the inner frame (90) and the rear frame (80). When the inner frame (90) is coupled to the rear frame (80), the rear panel (IP) and the insulators (97, 98) may be fixed.

[0084] In this embodiment, the inner frame (90) is composed of a first inner frame (91) and a second inner frame (95). A first inner opening (92) and a second inner opening (96) are opened in the center of the first inner frame (91) and the second inner frame (95), respectively. The first inner opening (92) and the second inner opening (96) are connected to the rear opening (82) to expose the transmission portion (V). A hinge avoidance portion (93) is formed to be recessed on a side surface of the first inner frame (91). The hinge avoidance portion (93) may be recessed to avoid a portion where the door hinge (78) is mounted. As another example, the inner frame (90) may be omitted or may be formed as a part of the rear frame (80).

[0085] Insulators (97, 98) are placed between the inner frame (90) and the rear frame (80). The insulators (97, 98) are placed at the top and bottom of the rear panel (IP), respectively, and can perform an insulating function.

[0086] The first rear panel (Gb) and the second rear panel (Gc) constituting the rear panel (IP) are spaced apart from the front panel (Ga). An air passage (A, see FIG. 6), which is a flow space in which air flows, may be formed between the rear panel (IP) and the front panel (Ga) so spaced apart. In addition, the rear panel (IP) may form an insulating space therein so that the internal heat of the storage space (41) is not transmitted to the front, i.e., toward the door (60). Therefore, the rear panel (IP) may also be viewed as an insulating panel (IP). As another example, the rear panel (IP) may be composed of only one panel, or may be composed of three or more panels.

[0087] An electronic component unit (100) is arranged on the front panel (Ga). In the present embodiment, the electronic component unit (100) is in close contact with the front panel (Ga). As another example, the electronic component unit (100) may be spaced apart from the front panel (Ga).

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic component unit (100) includes two casings (110). An image acquisition device (120) and a lighting device (130) may be provided between the two casings (110A, 110B). The image acquisition device (120) may be viewed as a type of camera device for photographing the storage space (41). The lighting device (130) may include an LED element as a light for irradiating light into the storage space (41). In the present embodiment, the electronic component unit (100) includes both the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130). As another example, the electronic component unit (100) may include only one of the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130).

[0089] The above electronic component unit (100) may include a main unit (100A) and a connection unit (100B). The image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130) may be arranged in the main unit (100A). A wire harness for transmitting power and signals to the image acquisition device (120) and the lighting device (130) may be arranged in the connection unit (100B). In the present embodiment, the main unit (100A) and the connection unit (100B) extend in different directions. As another example, the connection unit (100B) may be omitted.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 4, the electronic component unit (100) can be positioned at a position spaced apart from the edge (Ga') of the front panel (Ga) toward the transmission portion (V). The electronic component unit (100) is positioned at a position spaced apart from the upper edge of the edge (Ga') of the front panel (Ga) toward the center (Va) of the transmission portion (V). In this way, the electronic component unit (100) can be positioned closer to the transmission portion (V), thereby securing a wider field of view and irradiation angle.

[0091] The electronic component unit (100) may be arranged on the panel periphery (PA). The panel periphery (PA) is formed around the edge of the transparent portion (V). The electronic component unit (100) arranged on the panel periphery (PA) is covered by the panel periphery (PA) and is not exposed forward, i.e., toward the user. In the present embodiment, the electronic component unit (100) is arranged on the upper periphery (PA1) of the panel periphery (PA).

[0092] Since the electronic component unit (100) is positioned relatively closer to the transmission portion (V) than the edge of the door body (70, 80, 90), a gap is formed between the electronic component unit (100) and the edge of the door body (70, 80, 90). Accordingly, the electronic component unit (100) can be maintained in a fixed state by relying on the door panel (G), more precisely, the front panel (Ga). For example, the electronic component unit (100) can be fixed to the surface of the front panel (Ga) using an adhesive component such as a double-sided tape.

[0093] At this time, since the front panel (Ga) of the door (60) is provided with a panel perimeter (PA) together with the transmission portion (V), light can be transmitted only through the transmission portion (V). The panel perimeter (PA) is composed of a printed layer (140) as described below, and can opaquely transmit light or significantly reduce the amount of transmitted light. Of course, light passing through the transmission portion (V) can be blocked by the transmittance variable portion (200).

[0094] When the above-mentioned transmittance variable part (200) is in the transmission mode, light (visible light) is transmitted through the transmission part (V) of the front panel (Ga) constituting the door (60), but the panel perimeter (PA) arranged around the transmission part (V) may not transmit light. As shown in Fig. 4, since the home appliance component unit (100) is arranged on the rear side of the upper perimeter (PA1), the upper perimeter (PA1) can cover the home appliance component unit (100) so that it is not exposed to the front.

[0095] In this embodiment, the storage space (41) is made of metal, so its surface has a high light reflectance. In addition, the inner frame (90) and the rear frame (80) arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga) are also made of metal, so they can reflect light well. However, since the panel perimeter (PA) blocks light, the reflected light can only be transmitted forward through the transmittance variable portion (200) and the transmission portion (V).

[0096] FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 7(b) illustrate an example of a door (60) for a home appliance according to the present invention, in which the transmittance variable part (200) is in blocking mode, and an example of the home appliance when the transmittance variable part (200) is in blocking mode. Referring to FIG. 7(b), when the transmittance variable part (200) is in blocking mode, visible light cannot pass through the transmittance variable part (200) arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga), so that the inside object (F) cannot be observed from the outside. To this end, the power supply to the transmittance variable part (200) must be cut off to enter blocking mode. FIG. 7(a) illustrates an example of the transmittance variable part (200) in blocking mode.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 7(a), a cross-section of the transmittance variable portion (200) is enlarged. As can be seen, the transmittance variable portion (200) may be configured to include an active layer (211). In the present embodiment, the active layer (211) may be configured as a PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crustal) film. The PDLC film may exhibit an opaque state (blocking mode) when no voltage is applied, and a transparent state (transmitting mode) when voltage is applied.

[0098] Looking at the structure of the PDLC film, the PDLC film may have a first cover layer (230A) having a first electrode layer (220A) and a second cover layer (230B) having a second electrode layer (220B) facing each other with a certain interval between them. An active layer (211) composed of a prepolymer (212) in which a liquid crystal (214) is dispersed may be positioned between the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B). In the present embodiment, the PDLC film may be made by inserting an active layer (211) which is a mixture of a prepolymer (212) and a liquid crystal (214) between the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B) which are transparent indium tin oxide (ITO). For example, the active layer (211) can be formed by coating a PDLC solution between a first electrode layer (220A) and a second electrode layer (220B), which are a pair of ITO films.

[0099] Here, the active layer (211) composed of the above prepolymer (212) and liquid crystal (214) becomes a dielectric, and the two electrode layers (220A, 220B) facing each other with the dielectric in between can form a type of capacitor structure.

[0100] The first cover layer (230A) and the second cover layer (230B) may be composed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). As another example, the first cover layer (230A) and the second cover layer (230B) may be composed of a transparent material such as glass, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, or polyepoxy, but are not limited thereto.

[0101] The first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B) may be formed by including at least one of ITO, IZO (In-ZnO), GZO (Ga-ZnO), AZO (Al-ZnO), AGZO (Al-GaZnO), IGZO (In-Ga ZnO), IrOx, RuOx, RuOx / ITO, Ni / IrOx / Au, and Ni / IrOx / Au / ITO, but are not limited thereto.

[0102] The above active layer (211) may be composed of a prepolymer (212), which is a polymer matrix in which a liquid crystal (214) is dispersed. The active layer (211) may be formed by mixing raw materials of a polymer material that is cured by ultraviolet rays or heat with a liquid crystal (214), injecting the mixture into a liquid crystal specimen, and then exposing the mixture to ultraviolet rays or heat. That is, when the raw materials of the polymer material are exposed to ultraviolet rays or heat to form a polymer, phase separation occurs with the liquid crystal, and thus a liquid crystal may be formed between the polymer meshes. The liquid crystal (214) may be a nematic liquid crystal, a cholesteric liquid crystal, a smectic liquid crystal, a ferroelectric liquid crystal, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] The above active layer (211) can form a transmittance variable layer (210) together with the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B). The first cover layer (230A) and the second cover layer (230B) can be laminated on both sides of the transmittance variable layer (210), respectively. In this way, a film structure composed of the transmittance variable layer (210), the first cover layer (230A), and the second cover layer (230B) can form the transmittance variable portion (200).

[0104] The active layer (211) is a portion whose transmittance varies depending on whether power is applied. In the present embodiment, the transmittance variable layer (210) is composed of a PDLC film, but as another example, the transmittance variable layer (210) may be composed of a PNLC film (Polymer Network Liquid Crystal, PNLC) or an electrochromic film including an electrochromic element. The PNLC film has a three-dimensional network-like structure in which the liquid crystal is a continuous phase and the polymer is cross-linked. Alternatively, the transmittance variable layer (210) may be a reverse mode PDLC film. The reverse mode PDLC film has the characteristic of becoming opaque when power is applied, and conversely, becoming transparent when power is applied.

[0105] Meanwhile, as shown in Fig. 7(a), when driving power is not applied to the transmittance variable portion (200), the liquid crystals (214) in the active layer (211) are arranged in a random direction, so that a difference occurs between the effective refractive index of the liquid crystals (214) and the refractive index of the polymer, and thus the incident light may be scattered opaquely. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 7(b), the object (F) arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga) cannot be observed from the outside.

[0106] On the other hand, when driving power is applied to the transmittance variable part (200) as shown in Fig. 8(a), the liquid crystals (214) in the active layer (211) are aligned in one direction so that the refractive indices of the liquid crystals (214) and the polymer matrix (212) become the same, and the incident light can transmit through the active layer (211). Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 8(b), the object (F) arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga) can be observed from the outside.

[0107] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the structure of the transmittance variable portion (200) of the present embodiment. As can be seen therein, the first cover layer (230A) and the second cover layer (230B) may be arranged on both sides of the transmittance variable layer (210) arranged in the center. The first cover layer (230A) and the second cover layer (230B) may each be in the form of a thin plate, and may be considered to form the framework of the transmittance variable portion (200).

[0108] The first surface of the above-described transmittance variable portion (200) may be in close contact with the surface of the front panel (Ga) among the plurality of panels. At this time, the first surface may be the surface of the first cover layer (230A). An adhesive layer (250) may be laminated on the surface of the first cover layer (230A). The adhesive layer (250) may be disposed between the first cover layer (230A) and the front panel (Ga), and may adhere the first cover layer (230A) to the surface of the front panel (Ga). The adhesive layer (250) may have a thin film structure in which an adhesive material is formed on each of both surfaces. As another example, the adhesive layer (250) may be formed by directly applying an adhesive material to the surface of the first cover layer (230A).

[0109] The above adhesive layer (250) is made of a transparent material and can transmit visible light. The adhesive layer (250) may contain a dye to express a specific color, but even in this case, the adhesive layer (250) is made transparent. The dye may be one or two or more selected from azo dyes, anthraquinone dyes, phenylene dyes, melocyanine dyes, azomethine dyes, phthaloperylene dyes, indigo dyes, azulene dyes, dioxazine dyes, and polythiophene dyes, and may be combined.

[0110] The adhesive layer (250) may be formed over the entire first surface, or the adhesive layer (250) may be formed around the edge of the first surface. When the adhesive layer (250) is formed over the entire first surface of the transmittance variable portion (200), the transmittance variable portion (200) may be more strongly fixed to the surface of the front panel (Ga). When the adhesive layer (250) is formed around the edge of the first surface of the transmittance variable portion (200), the transmittance variable portion (200) may reduce a decrease in transmittance caused by the adhesive layer (250).

[0111] As shown in Fig. 10, when the transmittance variable portion (200) is in the transmission mode, external visible light can pass through the transmittance variable portion (200). More specifically, external visible light that has passed through the transmission portion (V) of the front panel (Ga) can sequentially pass through the adhesive layer (250), the first cover layer (230A), the transmittance variable layer (210), and the second cover layer (230B) and then pass through the rear panel (IP) of the door (60).

[0112] Fig. 11 conceptually illustrates the circuit structure of the transmittance variable layer (210) constituting the present embodiment. As can be seen therein, the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B) are arranged on both sides of the central active layer (211). Here, the active layer (211), the first electrode layer (220A), and the second electrode layer (220B) can form a type of capacitor structure. When power is supplied to the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B), the liquid crystals (214) of the active layer (211) arranged therebetween are aligned, and the transmittance variable layer (210) can be switched to a transmission mode.

[0113] In Fig. 11, the reference numeral P represents a power supply unit (P), which may be disposed inside the door (60) or may be disposed in the main body of the home appliance. A first electrode (260A) and a second electrode (260B) may be connected to the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B), respectively, so as to receive power from the power supply unit (P). The power supply unit (P) may form a power supply structure together with a wire harness. This structure will be described again below.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 11, the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode layer (220B) can form a circuit equipped with a kind of resistor (225). And the inside of the active layer (211) can be a kind of capacitor (215) having a predetermined capacity. In the drawing, the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode (260B) each include three resistors, and the first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode (260B) are connected in parallel to each other through the capacitor (215) of the active layer (211). However, this is a simplified representation to help understanding. The first electrode layer (220A) and the second electrode (260B) can have numerous parallel connection structures through the active layer (211). In this way, the transmittance variable portion (200) including the active layer (211) can have a uniform transmittance from the top to the bottom.

[0115] Referring to Fig. 12, a front view of the door (60) of the present embodiment is illustrated. As can be seen therein, a front panel (Ga) is arranged at the center of the door (60), and the front panel (Ga) includes a panel periphery (PA) surrounding the transparent portion. At this time, the transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged at the rear of the transparent portion (V). Since the transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged at the rear of the transparent portion (V), it can be observed from the outside of the door (60) only through the transparent portion (V). If the blocking mode is entered, the transmittance variable portion (200) becomes dark overall, so that not only the transmittance variable portion (200) but also the transparent portion (V) can be shielded.

[0116] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an example of a structure in which a transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged on a front panel (Ga) constituting a door (60) of the present embodiment. Reference drawing FIG. 13 is a view of the front panel (Ga) as viewed from the rear, i.e., from the storage space (41) side. Drawing symbol K indicates a boundary portion (K) between the transmittance portion (V) and the panel perimeter portion (PA). The transmittance portion (V) and the panel perimeter portion (PA) can be divided based on the boundary portion (K). The boundary portion (K) has a rectangular shape along the edge of the transmittance portion (V). As another example, the boundary portion (K) may have a polygonal or circular shape.

[0117] Drawing symbols T1 and T2 indicate the first arrangement area (T1) and the second arrangement area (T2), respectively, where the electronic component unit (100) and the harness guide (160) are arranged. The harness guide (160) is a portion where the wire harness, which will be described below, is stored, and the harness guide (160) can fix the wire harness and guide its extension direction.

[0118] In this embodiment, some of the edges of the transmittance variable portion (200) may be positioned outside the transmission portion (V). The edges of the transmittance variable portion (200) are positioned outside the boundary portion (K). Here, the outside refers to a direction closer to the outer edge of the door (60) than the center of the door (60). In this way, the transmittance variable portion (200) may have a larger area than the transmission portion (V) while covering the entire boundary portion (K).

[0119] In other words, it can be seen that some of the edges of the transmittance variable portion (200) are arranged at a position outside the transmittance portion (V), and some of the edges of the transmittance variable portion (200) are arranged to overlap the transmittance portion (V). More specifically, among the peripheral surfaces formed around the edges of the transmittance variable portion (200), the first peripheral surface (201) at the top is arranged outside the upper edge of the transmittance portion (V). Among the peripheral surfaces of the transmittance variable portion (200), the second peripheral surfaces (202) and the third peripheral surfaces (203) at both ends are arranged outside the edges of both sides of the transmittance portion (V). Among the peripheral surfaces of the transmittance variable portion (200), the fourth peripheral surface (204) at the bottom is arranged outside the lower edge of the transmittance portion (V). Based on the drawing, the first circumferential surface (201) can be said to be the upper circumferential surface, and the fourth circumferential surface (204) can be said to be the lower circumferential surface.

[0120] At this time, among the peripheral surfaces formed around the edge of the transmittance variable portion (200), the first peripheral surface (201) facing the surface (T1A) of the image acquisition device (120) may be arranged in a direction parallel to the surface of the image acquisition device (120). Referring to Fig. 12, the first peripheral surface (201) extends in a direction parallel to the lower surface (T1A) of the electronic component unit (100) including the image acquisition device (120). This appearance can also be confirmed in Fig. 13, and as shown in Fig. 13, the first peripheral surface (201) extends in a direction parallel to the first arrangement area (T1) where the electronic component unit (100) including the image acquisition device (120) is arranged.

[0121] In this case, the first peripheral surface (201) can be arranged adjacent to the electronic component unit (100). If the first electrode (260A), the second electrode (260B), and the wire harness extend from the first peripheral surface (201) adjacent to the electronic component unit (100), (i) the first electrode (260A), the second electrode (260B), and the wire harness can be accommodated in the electronic component unit (100), and / or (ii) the first electrode (260A) and the second electrode (260B) can protrude toward the electronic component unit (100) and be directly connected to the electronic component unit (100).

[0122] Among the peripheral surfaces formed around the edge of the transmittance variable portion (200), the second peripheral surface (202) or the third peripheral surface (203) forming the side surface may be arranged in a direction parallel to the harness guide (160). Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the third peripheral surface (203) forming the side surface among the peripheral surfaces of the transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged parallel to the harness guide (160). The third peripheral surface (203) may be parallel to the surface (T2A) of the harness guide (160). As another example, the second peripheral surface (202) forming the side surface among the peripheral surfaces of the transmittance variable portion (200) may also be arranged parallel to the harness guide (160). Since Fig. 13 is a view of the door (60) viewed from the opposite direction from Fig. 12, unlike Fig. 12, the second arrangement area (T2) where the harness guide (160) is arranged is provided on the right side.

[0123] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a structure in which a transmittance variable portion (200) is arranged on a front panel (Ga) constituting a door (60) for a home appliance according to the present invention. A structure different from the previous embodiment will be described in that a fixed film (270) may be laminated on the edge of the second surface of the transmittance variable portion (200), which is opposite the first surface. That is, the first surface of the transmittance variable portion (200) is in close contact with the surface of the front panel (Ga) among the plurality of panels, and the fixed film (270) is laminated on the edge of the second surface of the transmittance variable portion (200), which is opposite the first surface.

[0124] A portion of the fixed film (270) may be laminated on the edge of the first surface, and the remaining portion of the fixed film (270) may be laminated on the surface of the front panel (Ga). Through this, the fixed film (270) may adhere the edge of the first surface to the surface of the front panel (Ga). That is, the fixed film (270) may ensure that the edge of the transmittance variable portion (200) is firmly fixed without being lifted from the surface of the front panel (Ga).

[0125] The above-mentioned fixed film (270) may be a thin film structure with adhesive applied to only one surface. The surface of the fixed film (270) to which the adhesive is applied may be adhered to the edge of the transmittance variable portion (200) and the surface of the front panel (Ga).

[0126] The above-mentioned fixed film (270) may be made of a transparent / semitransparent material, or may be made of an opaque material. If the above-mentioned fixed film (270) is placed on the outside of the transmission portion (V), the fixed film (270) is placed at the rear of the panel perimeter (PA), and therefore does not need to be made of a transparent material. As another example, if all or part of the above-mentioned fixed film (270) is placed on the inside of the transmission portion (V), i.e., at the rear of the transmission portion (V), the above-mentioned fixed film (270) is preferably made of a transparent / semitransparent material so that visible light passing through the transmission portion (V) can pass through.

[0127] FIGS. 15(a) to 15(c) illustrate graphs showing voltages applied to a transmittance variable part (200) constituting a door (60) for a home appliance according to the present invention, and changes in transparency accordingly. First, as shown in FIG. 15(a), the power supplied to the transmittance variable part (200) is an AC power source, and the phase can be changed at regular intervals. Although a pulse wave is illustrated in FIG. 15(a), various waveforms such as a sine wave, a triangular wave, a step wave, and a rectangular wave can be applied to the power source.

[0128] In this embodiment, the transmittance variable portion (200) may be supplied with an AC power source or a switching power source by a switching device. The AC power source may be formed by an AC voltage of 10 V to 150 V.

[0129] At this time, the pulse duty ratio formed by the waveform of the current applied to the transmittance variable part (200) can be varied by the main control part, so that the light transmittance of the transmittance variable part (200) can be adjusted. In this way, in this embodiment, when applying a pulse wave to the power source, the transmittance of the transmittance variable part (200) can be adjusted by applying various duty ratios.

[0130] Table 1 below summarizes the values ​​obtained by applying various duty ratios to the pulse wave of the driving power source and testing the transmittance of the transmittance variable portion (200) accordingly. For reference, the duty ratio refers to the ratio of the pulse wave width to one cycle of the pulse wave. In other words, the duty ratio is the ratio of the portion of the pulse wave in which the pulse rises to a high level during one cycle of the pulse wave.

[0131] Duty cycle (%) Voltage (V) Light transmittance (%) 11033242204741330585944071715507978660827977091808809681990103811010011082

[0132] As shown in the table above, if the duty ratio is changed, the light transmittance of the transmittance variable part (200) changes. In the present embodiment, the main control unit (not shown) can control the light transmittance of the transmittance variable part (200) by controlling the duty ratio of the power applied to the transmittance variable part (200). Through this, the transmittance variable part (200) can implement various light transmittances and can provide different aesthetics to the door (60). Fig. 15(b) shows the transparency (light transmittance) of the transmittance variable part (200) according to the change in the voltage applied through the duty ratio control. The main control unit can also control the transparency (light transmittance) of the transmittance variable part (200) by varying the duty ratio of the current supplied to the transmittance variable part (200) and / or by varying the DC link voltage input to the inverter. The graph of Fig. 15(c) shows the change in light transmittance of the transmittance variable part (200) when the duty ratio of the current supplied to the transmittance variable part (200) is varied and when the DC link voltage is varied.

[0133] As can be seen, when the voltage exceeds a certain level (approximately 80 V), the light transmittance becomes similar when the duty ratio of the current is varied and when the DC link voltage is varied. Accordingly, the main control unit can adjust the transparency of the transmittance variable unit (200) by varying the duty ratio or varying the DC link voltage.

[0134] Fig. 16 illustrates a detection module (300) positioned on a door for a home appliance according to the present invention. The detection module (300) may include a sensor device (300) that detects vibrations generated by a user. Here, the vibration may be generated by a user applying an external force, such as a knock, to the surface of the door (60).

[0135] The above detection module (300) can detect a knock input applied to the door (60). Specifically, the detection module (300) can be a sensor that detects vibrations transmitted through a medium. The detection module (300) can detect vibrations generated by a knock when they are transmitted through the medium. For example, the detection module (300) can be configured to include a 3-axis sensor module and a sensor microcomputer. As another example, the detection module (300) may further include a filter unit and an amplifier unit. As yet another example, the detection module (300) can be configured to include a microphone device that detects a knock input as a sound wave and a sensor microcomputer.

[0136] At this time, since the temperature and pressure of the home appliance may affect the vibration detection performance of the detection module (300), it is preferable to install the detection module (300) in a location where the vibration detection performance is not affected by temperature and pressure. In the present embodiment, the detection module (300) may be placed between a plurality of panels constituting the door panel (G). When the detection module (300) is placed between the plurality of panels, the heat of the storage space (41) transmitted to the detection module (300) is reduced.

[0137] The above detection module (300) may be arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga). Referring to Fig. 16, the detection module (300) is arranged at the rear of the front panel (Ga) constituting the door panel (G), but is arranged at a position outside the edge of the transparent portion (V). At this time, the detection module (300) may be arranged at the panel periphery (PA). Accordingly, the detection module (300) may be covered without being exposed to the front.

[0138] As another example, the detection module (300) may be positioned outside the edge of the door panel (G). The detection module (300) may be positioned outside the door panel (G) and on the door body (70, 80, 90). In this way, the detection module (300) is positioned away from the storage space (41), and the door body (70, 80, 90) may function as a kind of heat dissipation function to cool the detection module (300). This may improve the heat resistance of the detection module (300).

[0139] The above detection module (300) may be positioned closer to the front panel (Ga) than the insulation panel (IP). In this way, the detection module (300) is positioned closer to the front of the door (60), so that the sensitivity to the knock-on signal, which is a user input signal, can be improved. In addition, since the detection module (300) is spaced apart from the insulation panel (IP), the heat transmitted to the detection module (300) can also be reduced.

[0140] Fig. 17 illustrates another embodiment of a structure in which the detection module (300) is arranged. As seen therein, the detection module (300) can be arranged in the electronic component unit (100). When the detection module (300) is arranged in the electronic component unit (100), the distance between the detection module (300) and the control unit (20) can be reduced. In addition, when the detection module (300) is arranged inside the electronic component unit (100), the detection module (300) can be shielded by the housing of the electronic component unit (100), thereby improving durability.

[0141] The above control unit (20, see FIG. 18) can control the transmittance variable unit (200) with a signal detected by the detection module (300). Here, the control unit (20) can be the main control unit or a sub-control unit (not shown) independent of the main control unit. The sub-control unit can be placed inside the electronic component unit (100). The control unit (20) can be placed inside the main body (10) or the operation unit (15). Alternatively, the control unit (20) can be placed inside the door (60).

[0142] Referring to Fig. 18, the control unit (20) can receive a signal from a sensor device including the detection module (300). The sensor device may include not only the detection module (300) but also a temperature / humidity sensor. The control unit (20) can also receive a signal from the operation unit (15). The control unit (20) can also exchange signals with a user's terminal (RT). The control unit (20) can be connected wirelessly to the user's terminal (RT).

[0143] The control unit (20) can control at least one of the image acquisition device (120), the lighting device (130), and the transmittance variable unit (200). The control unit (20) can cause the image acquisition device (120), the lighting device (130), and the transmittance variable unit (200) to operate in conjunction with each other or individually, depending on the operating states of the image acquisition device (120), the lighting device (130), and the transmittance variable unit (200).

[0144] The control unit (20) can control the on / off of the transmittance variable unit (200). That is, the control unit (20) can switch the transmittance variable unit (200) between a transmission mode and a blocking mode. For example, the control unit (20) can switch the transmittance variable unit (200) to a blocking mode when the image acquisition device (120) is in operation.

[0145] Figure 19 illustrates a flowchart of a door control method according to this embodiment. As shown, when a knock signal is input by a user (S10), the door (60) vibrates (S11). When this vibration occurs, the detection module (300) can detect it. Of course, as previously explained, the detection module (300) can also detect the knock input as a sound wave rather than vibration.

[0146] At this time, the control unit (20) can determine whether the image acquisition device (120) is in operation (ON) (S12). If the image acquisition device (120) is in operation, the control unit (20) can notify (warn) the user that the image acquisition device (120) is taking pictures (S20). Here, the notification can be displayed on the display unit (16), made audibly by a speaker (not shown), or made through the user's terminal (RT).

[0147] In this way, when the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module (300), the control unit (20) can determine the operating state of the image acquisition device (120) and selectively operate the transmittance variable unit (200) to activate the transmission mode.

[0148] Meanwhile, if the image acquisition device (120) is not in operation, the delay count is initialized (S13). The delay count is used to calculate the time difference between the knock input and another knock input. For example, the delay count can be performed for 10 seconds.

[0149] Next, the control unit (20) can turn on the transmittance variable unit (200) and the lighting device (130), respectively (S14). Since the transmittance variable unit (200) is switched to the transmission mode, the user can observe the inside of the storage space (41). In this way, when the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module (300), the control unit (20) can determine the operating state of the lighting device (130), activate the transmission mode of the transmittance variable unit (200), and operate the lighting device (130).

[0150] At the same time, the control unit (20) can start the delay count to determine whether the delay time is shorter than the set time N1 (S15). If the delay time is shorter than N1, the control unit (20) can determine whether an additional knock signal is input again within a time shorter than N1 seconds (S16). If the knock signal is input again, the control unit (20) can determine that the user has stopped directly observing the storage space (41) through the transmittance variable unit (200), and can turn off the transmittance variable unit (200) and the lighting device (130), respectively. Then, if the knock signal is not input again, the control unit (20) can count the delay time again.

[0151] As a result, when the user inputs multiple knock signals with a time difference shorter than the set time (N1), the transmittance variable part (200) and the lighting device (130) are switched to the ON state and then switched back to the OFF state. During this time difference, the user can observe the interior of the storage space (41).

[0152] FIG. 20 illustrates a process subsequent to the notification (S20) by the control unit (20). As seen therein, after the control unit (20) notifies the photographing status of the image acquisition device (120), the control unit (20) can start a delay count to determine whether the delay time is shorter than the set time N2 (S21). In addition, the control unit (20) can determine whether the knock signal is re-input within a time shorter than N2 (S22).

[0153] If a knock signal is repeatedly input with a time difference shorter than N2 time, the control unit (20) can determine that the user recognizes the shooting status of the image acquisition device (120) and wishes to stop it. Accordingly, the control unit (20) can turn off the shooting status of the image acquisition device (120) (S23). Next, the control unit (20) can turn on the lighting device (130) and the transmittance variable unit (200), respectively, so that the user can directly observe the storage space (41) (S24). As another example, the control unit (20) can turn off both the lighting device (130) and the transmittance variable unit (200) without turning them on. Meanwhile, if a knock signal is not repeatedly input with a time difference shorter than N2 time, the control unit (20) can maintain the shooting status of the image acquisition device (120).

[0154] Fig. 21 illustrates a flowchart of a control method when a user inputs a shooting signal of an image acquisition device (120). The user can input a shooting signal of the image acquisition device (120) through the operation unit (21), the display unit (16), the terminal (RT), or the detection module (300) (S30). Here, the input through the detection module (300) can be performed by inputting a knock-on signal multiple times with a time difference shorter than a set time. For example, if the user inputs a knock-on signal three or more times in total within three seconds, the image acquisition device (120) can perform shooting.

[0155] At this time, the control unit (20) can determine whether the transmittance variable unit (200) is in the ON state, i.e., the transmittance mode (S31). If the transmittance variable unit (200) is in the transmittance mode, an external object may be reflected inside the door and captured by the image acquisition device (120), so it is necessary to switch the transmittance variable unit (200) to the blocking mode. Accordingly, the control unit (20) switches the transmittance variable unit (200) to the OFF state, i.e., the blocking mode (S32). In other words, if multiple vibrations caused by the knock are detected by the detection module (300) with a time difference and the time difference is shorter than the set time, a step of the control unit (20) activating the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit (200) can be performed.

[0156] If the above transmittance variable part (200) is already in blocking mode, the control part (20) may not control the transmittance variable part (200) and may only switch the lighting device (130) to the ON state to assist the image acquisition device (120) in taking pictures (S33). Subsequently, the image acquisition device (120) may start taking pictures by the control part (20) (S34).

[0157] Meanwhile, Fig. 22 illustrates a process of ending the shooting inside the storage space (41). A signal to stop shooting of the image acquisition device (120) can be input by the user. As before, the user can input a signal to stop shooting of the image acquisition device (120) through the operation unit (21), the display unit (16), the terminal (RT), or the detection module (300) (S40).

[0158] When a signal to stop shooting of the image acquisition device (120) is input, the control unit (20) can turn off the transmittance variable unit (200) and the lighting device (130) (S41). The transmittance variable unit (200) is already in an OFF state when the image acquisition device (120) is shooting, but the control unit (20) can terminate the transmission mode of the transmittance variable unit (200) due to an error by turning the transmittance variable unit (200) off once again. Finally, the control unit (20) can stop shooting of the image acquisition device (120) (S42).

[0159] Fig. 23 illustrates a second embodiment of a home appliance to which a door (60) for home appliances according to the present invention is applied. As shown therein, the home appliance may be equipped with two doors (60A, 60B). Transmittance variable parts (200A, 200B) may be arranged on each of the two doors (60A, 60B). The two transmittance variable parts (200A, 200B) may be independently controlled, thereby varying the light transmittance.

[0160] Meanwhile, although not shown, the image acquisition device (120) may be placed on the handle (75) rather than inside the door (60). As another example, the image acquisition device (120) may be placed on the surface of the insulation panel (IP) rather than between the front panel (Ga) and the insulation panel (IP).

[0161] The above description is merely an illustrative illustration of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended to illustrate, rather than limit, the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. Door body placed in front of the storage space of the home appliance; A door panel coupled to the above door body, comprising a plurality of panels, and having a transparent portion formed in the center; A transmittance variable portion arranged between the plurality of panels so as to overlap at least a portion of the above-described transmitting portion, the transmittance being variable when power is applied; A detection module that detects vibration caused by a knock input to the door body or the door panel; and A door for a home appliance, comprising a control unit that controls the on / off of the transmittance variable unit using a signal detected by the detection module.

2. In claim 1, the door body is provided with an image acquisition device that photographs the storage space, When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit determines the operating status of the image acquisition device, A door for home appliances in which the control unit activates the transmission mode or blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit according to the operating state of the image acquisition device.

3. In claim 1, the door body is provided with a lighting device that irradiates light into the storage space, When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the above detection module, the control unit determines the operating status of the lighting device, A door for home appliances in which the control unit activates the transmission mode of the transmittance variable unit and turns on the lighting device.

4. A door for a home appliance according to claim 1, wherein, when a plurality of vibrations caused by the knock are detected by the detection module with a time difference and the time difference is shorter than a set time, the control unit activates the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit.

5. In claim 1, the door body is provided with an operating unit, When a signal for operating the image acquisition device is input through the above operation unit, the control unit determines the operating state of the transmittance variable unit, A door for home appliances in which, if the above-mentioned transmittance variable part is a transmittance mode, the control part activates the blocking mode of the above-mentioned transmittance variable part and then operates the image acquisition device.

6. In claim 1, the door body is provided with an image acquisition device that photographs the storage space, When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit determines the operating status of the image acquisition device. A door for home appliances in which, when the image acquisition device is in operation, the control unit notifies the user that the image acquisition device is in operation.

7. In claim 1, an electronic component including an image acquisition device for photographing the storage space is disposed in the door body, The above detection module is a door for home appliances placed inside the electronic component.

8. A door for a home appliance according to claim 1, wherein the detection module is disposed outside the edge of the variable transmittance portion.

9. A door for a home appliance according to claim 1, wherein the detection module is disposed between the plurality of panels, or the detection module is disposed at a position outside the edge of the door panel.

10. In claim 1, the plurality of panels Front panel and, Including an insulating panel spaced apart from the front panel and positioned closer to the storage space than the front panel, A door for a home appliance, wherein the above detection module is positioned closer to the front panel than the above insulation panel.

11. In claim 1, the door panel is provided with a panel perimeter that surrounds the edge of the transparent portion and has a lower light transmittance than the transparent portion. The above detection module is a door for home appliances arranged around the panel.

12. A method for controlling a door for a home appliance having a variable transmittance unit that changes the transmittance of the door, A step in which a knock applied to the door is detected by a detection module disposed on the door; When a knock signal is detected by the above detection module, the control unit determines the blocking mode / transmitting mode status of the transmittance variable unit; and A method for controlling a door for a home appliance, comprising: when the knock signal is detected while the transmittance variable part is in blocking mode, the control part switches the transmittance variable part to the transmittance mode; 13. In claim 12, the door is provided with an image acquisition device that photographs the storage space of the home appliance, When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit determines the operating status of the image acquisition device. A control method for a door for a home appliance, wherein the control unit includes a step of activating the transmission mode or blocking mode of the transmission variable unit according to the operating state of the image acquisition device.

14. In claim 12, the door is provided with a lighting device that irradiates light into the storage space, A method for controlling a door for a home appliance, comprising a step of: when vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit determines the operating state of the lighting device, and activates the transmission mode of the transmittance variable unit and operates the lighting device.

15. A method for controlling a door for a home appliance, comprising the step of: in claim 12, when a plurality of vibrations caused by the knock are detected by the detection module with a time difference and the time difference is shorter than a set time, the control unit activates the blocking mode of the transmittance variable unit.

16. In claim 12, the door is provided with an operating unit, When a signal for operating the image acquisition device is input through the above operation unit, the control unit determines the operating state of the transmittance variable unit, A control method for a door for a home appliance, wherein if the above-mentioned transmittance variable part is a transmission mode, the control part includes a step of activating the blocking mode of the above-mentioned transmittance variable part and then operating the image acquisition device.

17. In claim 12, the door is provided with an image acquisition device that photographs the storage space, When the vibration caused by the knock is detected by the detection module, the control unit determines the operating status of the image acquisition device; A method for controlling a door for a home appliance, wherein the control unit further includes a step of notifying a user that the image acquisition device is in operation when the image acquisition device is in operation.

Images