Home appliance and method for driving panel for home appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a home appliance and a method for driving a panel for the home appliance. The home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a panel assembly that forms the exterior and includes an electrophoretic panel for outputting a set color; and a control unit that provides a voltage input waveform for outputting the set color. The electrophoretic panel includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other; and a microcapsule that is arranged between the electrodes and includes three or more color pigment particles charged to have a positive or negative charge, wherein the control unit is characterized in that the set color is output by a combination of a plurality of pulses that cause voltages of a different magnitude than a previous voltage to be continuously and repeatedly input at intervals of a constant input time (t) within a range between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2).

Description

Driving method for home appliances and panels for home appliances

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for driving a home appliance and a panel for a home appliance.

[0002] Generally, home appliances are electronic devices used in the home and may include refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, dishwashers, garment care systems, cooking appliances, vacuum cleaners, etc.

[0003] Such home appliances can have exteriors in various colors to harmonize with the usage environment and satisfy user preferences. Furthermore, home appliances with exteriors composed of displays capable of screen output are being developed recently.

[0004] For example, a refrigerator is being developed that allows for various color changes on the front of the refrigerator by equipping the door with a color-changing panel to form the front exterior of the refrigerator and enabling it to change to a color set by the user.

[0005] However, such refrigerators have the problem of increased costs due to the complex configuration of the panels, and the increased weight of the panels makes opening and closing the door inconvenient and reduces durability.

[0006] To solve this problem, Korean published patent No. 10-2022-0073626 discloses a refrigerator in which an electrophoretic panel is placed on the refrigerator door to change the front color of the refrigerator door.

[0007] However, due to the characteristics of electrophoretic panels, not only is it difficult to implement a wide range of colors, but there is also a problem with the difficulty of achieving accurate colors.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a home appliance equipped with a dynamic panel capable of realizing an appearance of various colors set by a user, and a method for driving the panel for the home appliance.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a home appliance equipped with a chromatic panel capable of fine color adjustment and a method for driving the panel for the home appliance.

[0010] A home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a panel assembly including an electrophoretic panel that forms an exterior and outputs a set color; and a control unit that provides a voltage input waveform for outputting the set color. The electrophoretic panel includes a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other and a microcapsule containing three or more color pigment particles disposed between the electrodes and charged to have a positive or negative charge. The control unit can output the set color by a combination of multiple pulses such that a voltage of a different magnitude from the previous voltage is continuously and repeatedly input at the same input time (t) interval in a range between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2).

[0011] The above microcapsules can be formed by accommodating the pigment particles in an elastic spherical capsule.

[0012] The electrophoretic panel described above comprises a pair of films spaced apart from each other, with electrodes disposed on surfaces facing each other, and the space between the pair of films may be filled with a plurality of microcapsules together with a binder.

[0013] The above microcapsules can be pressed by a pair of films so that at least a portion can be formed into a planar shape.

[0014] The above capsule can be formed from an elastically deformable material.

[0015] Among the above pigment particles, pigment particles of different colors having the same polarity can be formed in different sizes.

[0016] The above plurality of pulses may consist of 5 to 40.

[0017] The above panel assembly may be detachably provided on the front of the door body of a refrigerator that opens and closes the storage space.

[0018] The above panel assembly includes a cover plate formed of glass material to form the front surface, and the electrophoretic panel can be adhered to the back surface of the cover plate.

[0019] The above panel assembly can form the exterior of any one of a refrigerator, air conditioner, air purifier, vacuum cleaner, cooking appliance, dishwasher, clothing care machine, washing machine, or vacuum cleaner.

[0020] A driving method for a home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a color input step in which a desired output color is input; a waveform input step in which a voltage waveform corresponding to a position change of the pigment particles of the input color is input; and a color output step in which the set color is output by the position change of the pigment particles according to the input waveform, wherein the waveform may be composed of a combination of multiple pulses such that a voltage of a different magnitude from the previous voltage is continuously and repeatedly input at the same input time (t) interval in a range between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2).

[0021] The above waveform may be formed by repeating the above pulse 5 to 40 times.

[0022] The above high voltage is 40V, and the above low voltage may be -40V.

[0023] The setting time for the above waveform input may be 20 to 25 seconds.

[0024] The above waveform may include an initialization waveform for arranging the pigment particles into a reference state, and a color waveform for moving the pigment particles to output the set color after the termination of the initialization waveform.

[0025] The input time (t) of each pulse constituting the initialization waveform and the color waveform above can all be the same.

[0026] The above initial waveform can be input for a period of time equal to or longer than the above color waveform.

[0027] When the above initialization waveform ends, the pulse constituting the color waveform can start at a voltage of 0V.

[0028] In the waveform input step above, outputtable color waveforms can be obtained by repeatedly inputting arbitrary pulses and then repeatedly capturing and comparing actual colors through a vision camera.

[0029] The pulses constituting the above color waveform can be formed by repeatedly inputting and combining different arbitrary input voltages at the same input time (t) interval.

[0030] The following effects can be expected from the driving method of a home appliance and a panel for a home appliance according to the proposed embodiment.

[0031] In the electrophoretic panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, microcapsules filled with pigment particles can be formed in a spherical shape. Accordingly, it can have excellent structural durability even against repeated moving impacts of a large number of pigment particles and impacts of pigment particles caused by high voltage.

[0032] Accordingly, the electrophoretic panel can increase the high voltage and low voltage to +40V and -40V, and can input a waveform that repeats the voltage change up to 40 times for color change. Therefore, it is possible to output a wider variety of colors, which has the advantage of allowing the exterior color of the home appliance to be more diverse.

[0033] In addition, there is an advantage in that various outputtable color waveforms can be obtained by repeatedly inputting arbitrary pulses and then capturing and comparing the actual color through a vision camera. Furthermore, through repeated learning, it is possible to provide accurate waveforms and waveforms with low error required for outputting a set color by using pigments having three or more colors inside the microcapsule, thereby providing the advantage of accurate appearance color expression and fine appearance color adjustment.

[0034] Even when various colors can be output in this way, there is an advantage in that accurate color output can be guaranteed by configuring the zero position of the initialization waveform to reach a position where the standard deviation from the outputtable colors is minimized.

[0035] In addition, the same initialization waveform can be applied to the entire output color, ensuring that the pigment particles are repositioned to a state where they can move easily, and there is an advantage in that the color output quality can be improved by facilitating the movement of the pigment particles by the color waveform performed thereafter.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the door open.

[0038] FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing the door body and panel assembly constituting the door separated.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the flow of control signals for the operation of the refrigerator.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the front plate and electrophoretic panel constituting the panel assembly.

[0041] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the microcapsules constituting the electrophoretic display.

[0042] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram of a device for deriving waveforms of the electrophoretic panel.

[0043] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the zero point position and the output color in color coordinates according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 10 is a diagram showing examples of the output color and waveform of the electrophoretic panel.

[0046] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the color arrangement distribution by a color waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention in color coordinates with the L value fixed.

[0047] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the color arrangement distribution by color waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention in color coordinates according to L value ranges.

[0048] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing examples of home appliances equipped with an electrophoretic panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments presented, and other inventions that are inferior or other embodiments included within the scope of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, changing, or deleting other components.

[0050] Furthermore, for the convenience of explanation and understanding, the embodiments of the present invention are described using an example applied to a refrigerator among home appliances, and may be applicable to other home appliances as well.

[0051] Before the explanation, directions are defined. In the embodiment of the present invention, the direction in which the front of the door shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 faces can be defined as the front, the direction in which the cabinet faces relative to the front of the door can be defined as the rear, the direction in which the refrigerator is installed facing the floor surface can be defined as the downward direction, and the direction away from the floor surface can be defined as the upward direction.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the door open.

[0053] As described, the refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an external shape formed by a cabinet (10) that forms a storage space and a door (20) that opens and closes the storage space of the cabinet (10).

[0054] For example, the cabinet (10) may form a storage space divided vertically, with a refrigerator room (11) formed in the upper part and a freezer room (12) formed in the lower part. The refrigerator room (11) may be called the upper storage space, and the freezer room (12) may be called the lower storage space.

[0055] The above door (20) may be configured to open and close the refrigerator room (11) and the freezer room (12), respectively. The above door (20) may include a refrigerator room door (21) for opening and closing the refrigerator room (11) and a freezer room door (22) for opening and closing the freezer room (12).

[0056] The above refrigerator door (21) may be composed of a pair of refrigerator doors (21) positioned on both the left and right sides. And, the above freezer door (22) may be composed of a pair of freezer doors (22) positioned on both the left and right sides.

[0057] The above door (20) can be connected by hinge devices (131, 132, 133) and rotatably mounted on the cabinet (10), and the refrigerator room (11) and freezer room (12) can be opened and closed by rotation.

[0058] In this embodiment, for the convenience of explanation and understanding, a refrigerator structure in which the refrigerator compartment (11) is positioned at the top and the freezer compartment (12) is positioned at the bottom is described as an example; however, the present invention is not limited to the shape of the refrigerator and can be applied to any type of refrigerator equipped with a door.

[0059] Meanwhile, the door (20) forms the front exterior of the refrigerator (1) when closed, and can form the exterior of the refrigerator (1) that is visible forward when the refrigerator (1) is installed.

[0060] The door (20) may be displayed in a color selected or set by the user. Specifically, the front of the door (20) may display a set color by the operation of an electrophoretic panel (32 in FIG. 5) provided on the door (20). Thus, the user can change the front color of the door (20) by the operation of the electrophoretic panel (32) without separating or disassembling the door (20).

[0061] FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing the door body and panel assembly constituting the door separated.

[0062] As described above, the door (20) may include a door body (40) that forms the overall shape of the door (20) and opens and closes the storage space, and a panel assembly (30) that forms the front exterior of the door (20).

[0063] The door body (40) may include a body plate (41) forming the front and a door liner (42) forming the rear. Additionally, the door body (40) may include side decos (44) forming the left and right sides of the door body (21). The side decos (44) may extend in the vertical direction, and the upper end may be combined with an upper cap deco (43) and the lower end may be combined with a lower cap deco (45). The space inside the door body (40) may be filled with insulation material.

[0064] A structure for mounting the panel assembly (30) may be provided on the front of the door body (40). The panel assembly (30) may be attached to the door body (40) in various ways, such as by a protrusion structure or a magnet.

[0065] The door body (40) may be provided with a door body terminal (46) that is electrically connected to a power line that supplies power within the panel assembly (30) and a signal line that transmits a signal. For example, the body terminal (46) may be formed on the lower front side of the door body (40), that is, on the front side of the lower cap deco (45).

[0066] The above panel assembly (30) is formed in a plate shape and forms the front exterior of the door (20) while mounted on the front of the door body (40). The above panel assembly (30) may also be called a door panel or an exterior panel.

[0067] Additionally, the panel assembly (30) may be equipped with the electrophoretic panel (32). The panel assembly (30) may include the electrophoretic panel (32) to display various designs or colors based on user input or the operating status of the refrigerator.

[0068] Through this, the user can change the exterior of the refrigerator to a desired design or color without physically replacing the panel assembly (30). Additionally, the user can display selected pictures, text, images, videos, pictograms, etc. on the refrigerator door. Furthermore, by changing the design or color of the exterior based on the operating status of the refrigerator, the operating status can be conveyed to the user more intuitively.

[0069] Additionally, when the panel assembly (30) is mounted on the door body (40), the panel terminal (327) of the electrophoretic panel (32) can be connected to the body terminal. Accordingly, the electrophoretic panel (32) can be operated through power supply and signal transmission via the connection between the body terminal (46) and the panel terminal (327). For example, the body terminal (46) and the panel terminal (327) may be configured in the form of a connector to facilitate connection and disconnection.

[0070] FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the flow of control signals for the operation of the refrigerator.

[0071] As described above, the control unit (38) can cool the storage space by controlling the operation of the drive unit (382), which includes a refrigeration cycle. Additionally, a temperature sensor (383) for detecting the internal temperature may be provided, and the control unit (38) can control the drive unit (382) according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (383) to maintain the storage space at a set temperature. Furthermore, the control unit (38) may output a corresponding color from the electrophoretic panel (32) according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (383).

[0072] Additionally, the control unit (38) may be connected to a door switch (381) that detects the opening and closing of the door (20). Thus, the electrophoretic panel (32) may be configured to output a set color only when the door (20) is closed. Furthermore, when the door (20) is open, the brightness of the electrophoretic panel (32) may be lowered or turned off.

[0073] Additionally, the control unit (38) may be connected to a detection sensor (384) that detects user operation or proximity. The control unit (38) may also adjust the output state of the electrophoretic panel (32) depending on whether the user is detected through the detection sensor (384).

[0074] Additionally, the control unit (38) may be connected to a timer (385). The control unit (38) may cause the electrophoretic panel (32) to output a set color during a set time counted by the timer (385). Additionally, the color of the electrophoretic panel (32) may be automatically changed after the set time has elapsed.

[0075] Additionally, the panel assembly (30) may include a lighting device (36). The lighting device (36) may perform a backlight function for the electrophoretic panel (32) to enable the panel assembly (30) to display vivid colors with brighter brightness. Of course, if the brightness of the electrophoretic panel (32) is sufficient, the lighting device (36) may be omitted. Additionally, although not illustrated, a light guide plate may be further provided to guide the light from the lighting device (36) to the electrophoretic panel (32).

[0076] The control unit (38) is connected to the electrophoretic panel (32) to enable the electrophoretic panel (32) to operate in a selected color. At this time, in order for the electrophoretic panel (32) to display accurate and various colors, the control unit (38) may store an optimal color waveform according to the selected color. Accordingly, the control unit (38) can provide voltage with a waveform suitable for the color set by the user, thereby enabling the electrophoretic panel (32) to output an accurate color.

[0077] Below, the structure of the above electrophoretic panel (32) will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0078] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the front plate and the electrophoretic panel constituting the panel. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the microcapsules constituting the electrophoretic panel.

[0079] As illustrated, the front surface of the panel assembly (30) may be formed by a cover plate (31). The cover plate (31) may be formed as a transparent plate. For example, the cover plate (31) may be formed of a reinforced glass material. The cover plate (31) may form the entire front surface of the door (20).

[0080] An electrophoretic panel (32) may be provided on the rear surface of the cover plate (31). The electrophoretic panel (32) may be attached to the back surface of the cover plate (31) by an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The electrophoretic panel (32) may be formed in the shape of a plate or a sheet and may have a size corresponding to that of the cover plate (31). Therefore, when the electrophoretic panel (32) outputs a set color, the entire cover plate (31) may be visible in the set color. The electrophoretic panel (32, EPD: ElectroPhoretic Display) may also be referred to as a phoretic panel, an electrophoretic display, an electrophoretic film, an electrophoretic sheet, etc.

[0081] The electrophoretic panel (32) above may be formed by applying a binder (324) containing microcapsules (33) between a pair of films (321). For example, the film (321) may be a PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) film. Also, the film (321) may be formed transparently.

[0082] In each of the above pair of films (321), electrodes (322, 323) may be disposed to arrange pigment particles (hereinafter referred to as pigment) inside the microcapsule (33) in a position where a desired color output is possible. For example, the electrodes (322, 323) may be composed of transparent electrodes. As another example, among the electrodes (322, 323), the electrode (322) disposed on the front film (321) may be formed as a transparent electrode, and the electrode (322) disposed on the rear film (321) may be formed of an aluminum material. That is, the front side through which the color of the pigment is transmitted is composed of a transparent electrode, while the rear electrode (323), which is not related to color transmission, is formed of an aluminum material, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and increasing durability, making it suitable for home appliances.

[0083] Additionally, a panel terminal (327) may be connected to the electrode (322, 323), and the panel terminal (327) may extend outwardly to the electrophoretic panel (32). For example, the panel terminal (327) may be connected to the electrode (322, 323) and may extend outwardly through the sealing resin (326) and moisture-proof film (325) described below. Furthermore, the panel terminal (327) may be formed of a flexible material and may be bent backward to be connected to the body electrode (46). Additionally, the panel terminal (327) may be formed integrally with the electrode (322, 323).

[0084] The total thickness including the pair of films (321), electrodes (322, 323), and microcapsules (33) can be approximately 0.2 to 0.3 mm. The size of the microcapsules (33) can be formed to be tens to hundreds of micrometers.

[0085] Meanwhile, the microcapsule (33) can be filled by charging a plurality of pigments (P) into a spherical capsule (331) so that each has a positive or negative charge state, and then mixing them with an electrolyte (332). At this time, the pigments (P) can be formed to have different colors and sizes, and can be composed of multiple individual pigments. Accordingly, the pigments (P) can be arranged so that they move to a set height inside the capsule (331) according to the voltage supplied through the electrodes (322, 323), and the set color appears on the front of the electrophoretic panel (32). At this time, the plurality of pigments (P) can form layers at different heights inside the microcapsule (33).

[0086] The pigment (P) may have three or more colors. Even if the number of colors of the pigment (P) increases, the initial waveform and color waveform can be analyzed and obtained by machine learning, and it may be possible to derive a waveform for optimal color output.

[0087] For example, as illustrated, the pigments (P) may be configured to have four colors. Specifically, the pigments (P) may be composed of a first pigment (P1) having a cyan (C) color, a second pigment (P2) having a magenta (M) color, a third pigment (P3) having a yellow (Y) color, and a fourth pigment (P4) having a white (W) color.

[0088] At this time, the first pigment (P1) and the second pigment (P2) can be formed to have a positive charge. The first pigment (P1) can have a larger size than the second pigment (P2). Also, the third pigment (P3) and the fourth pigment (P4) can be formed to have a negative charge. The third pigment (P3) can have a larger size than the fourth pigment (P4). That is, the four color pigments (P) can have a positive or negative charge and can be provided in different sizes.

[0089] Accordingly, a layer of pigments (P) can be formed based on the behavior of the pigments (P) that move up and down according to the voltage supplied from above and below, and a waveform representing a set color can be derived through this. That is, the pigments (P) move up and down within the microcapsule (33) according to the voltage change corresponding to the pulses constituting the waveform, and finally form an arrangement corresponding to the set color, so that the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the set color.

[0090] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, when a user wants to output a set color (C) through an electrophoretic panel (32), if a voltage of +30V is supplied by a waveform (W), the first pigment (P1), which has a positive charge and is relatively large in size among the pigments inside the microcapsule (33), moves rapidly toward the negative electrode and is positioned at the top, and the second pigment (P2), which has a positive charge and is relatively small in size, can be placed below it. Then, the third pigment (P3), which has a negative charge and is relatively large in size, moves rapidly toward the positive electrode and is positioned at the bottom, and the fourth pigment (P4), which has a negative charge and is relatively small in size, can be placed above it.

[0091] By arranging such pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33), the electrophoretic panel (32) can output a set color. This example is a very simplified explanation of the waveform (W) for voltage supply. In the present invention, the difference between the high voltage (V1), which is the upper limit of the supplied voltage, and the low voltage (V2), which is the lower limit, is large, and multiple different waveforms (W) can be repeatedly provided, making it possible to output various colors.

[0092] Meanwhile, the microcapsule (33) can be placed between a pair of films (321) by a laminating method. Also, the capsule (331) can be formed from an elastic material. Accordingly, the microcapsule (33) can be pressed in the vertical direction by the pair of films (321) during the manufacturing process of the electrophoretic panel (32). Also, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, at least a portion of the microcapsule (33) may have a flat upper surface and a lower surface (front and rear on the electrophoretic panel). Also, a plurality of microcapsules (33) can come into contact with each other. Therefore, the color output to the front of the electrophoretic panel (32) can be output accurately without distortion.

[0093] In addition, since the microcapsule (33) is formed in a spherical shape, it has excellent structural durability even if the pigment (P) inside moves and applies strong and repeated impacts to the inner wall of the capsule (331). That is, in the case of existing pigment receiving structures having a rectangular or cup structure, the wall of the capsule may be damaged or broken due to strong impacts when the pigment moves repeatedly or when the pigment moves due to high voltage, and there is a limitation in color output as a result.

[0094] However, the microcapsule (33) according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured in a spherical shape and is structurally resistant to impact and very resistant to fatigue failure. Therefore, the microcapsule (33) can maintain a stable state even when a high voltage is supplied to implement various colors and multiple pulses are repeatedly combined. In this way, by applying a high voltage and repeatedly combining multiple pulses, it becomes possible to derive a color waveform (W1) capable of outputting a wider variety of colors. That is, the output color of the electrophoretic panel (32) can be made more diverse.

[0095] The electrophoretic panel (32) may include a moisture-proof film (325). The moisture-proof film (325) may form the front and rear surfaces of the electrophoretic panel (32). The moisture-proof film (325) may be formed to surround the internal structure of the electrophoretic panel (32) and prevent moisture from penetrating into the interior of the electrophoretic panel (32).

[0096] Additionally, a sealing resin (326) may be filled between the pair of the above moisture-proof films (325). Furthermore, the film (321) positioned above and below the microcapsule (33) is placed inside the sealing resin (326), thereby preventing moisture from penetrating into the interior of the electrophoretic panel. Of course, if necessary, the front moisture-proof film (325) in contact with the cover plate (31) may be omitted.

[0097] The multilayers constituting the electrophoretic panel (32) can be laminated and bonded by continuous roll processing. Therefore, the electrophoretic panel (32) can have very high productivity and reduced manufacturing costs. In addition, the electrophoretic panel (32) can be easily processed into a size suitable for use in home appliances.

[0098] For accurate color output of the electrophoretic panel (32) according to an embodiment of the present invention, various color outputs may be possible by repeatedly performing arbitrary color outputs and repeatedly storing the waveform (W) obtained therefrom. For example, the waveform (W) can be obtained in a number sufficient for various color outputs through iterative learning using machine learning.

[0099] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram of a device for deriving waveforms of the electrophoretic panel.

[0100] As described, the waveform (W) for the color output of the electrophoretic panel (32) of the present invention can be obtained by repeatedly measuring and comparing the deviation between the color output repeatedly and the reference color by machine learning, and storing the value.

[0101] In detail, a dome light (53) and a vision camera (52) may be positioned above the electrophoretic panel (32). Thus, when the electrophoretic panel (32) outputs a set color while the dome light (53) is illuminating the electrophoretic panel (32), this can be captured through the vision camera.

[0102] Additionally, the vision camera (52) is connected to an agent PC (51) to transmit and analyze an image captured from the output screen of the electrophoretic panel (32). The agent PC (51) can analyze this based on color coordinates, store the coordinate values ​​of the image, and compare and review them with the color coordinates of a reference color.

[0103] In addition, the agent fish (51) can generate a waveform (W) for arbitrary color output. The waveform (W) can be generated regularly by a preset program. For example, the waveform (W) can be obtained by repeatedly generating similar waveforms to converge to accurate color coordinates in order to minimize the deviation between the output result of the set color and the set color. As another example, the waveform (W) can expand the range of outputtable colors by repeatedly forming different waveforms irregularly to obtain various color waveforms.

[0104] Meanwhile, the agent fish (51) and the electrophoretic panel (32) may be connected to a power supply (54). The power supply (54) may be configured to supply power to the electrophoretic panel (32) according to the waveform (W) transmitted from the agent fish (51). For example, the power supply (54) may be a bipolar power supply.

[0105] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, approximately 30,000 types of color-specific waveforms can be derived by the device for deriving waveforms of the electrophoretic panel (32) as described above. That is, the user can input and select a desired color within the range of 30,000 types of colors, and the electrophoretic panel (32) can provide an accurate waveform according to the user's selection and output the selected set color. At least some of the derived waveforms (W) can be mounted on the control unit (38) of the refrigerator (1), and it is possible to output the front color of the door (20) in a diverse and accurate manner.

[0106] In particular, during the mass production process of the electrophoretic panel (32), a color variation may occur in each electrophoretic panel (32) depending on the amount of pigment (P). However, a device for deriving the waveform of such electrophoretic panel (32) may be used to provide the corrected waveform (W) corresponding to the color variation of each electrophoretic panel (32). That is, the waveform (W) tailored to each electrophoretic panel (32) is installed in the control unit (38) of each refrigerator (1) to ensure the same color output quality in different refrigerators (1).

[0107] Meanwhile, the waveform (W) may be configured such that an initialization waveform (WI in FIG. 9) is first performed to make the pigment (P) a reference arrangement state regardless of the set color, and a color waveform (Wc in FIG. 9) for moving the pigment (P) to output the set color is subsequently performed.

[0108] In addition, the color waveform (Wc) and the initialization waveform (WI) can both be obtained through a device for deriving waveforms of the electrophoretic panel shown in FIG. 7. In addition, the initialization waveform (WI) can be configured identically regardless of the set color.

[0109] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the zero point position and the output color in color coordinates according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] As described above, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output various colors in the color coordinate region (A) through the waveform (W) obtained through the aforementioned process.

[0111] Additionally, the electrophoretic panel (32) can be moved to a zero position (L0) by the initialization waveform (WI) to output another color after outputting one color. The initialization waveform (WI) can move multiple pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) to a stabilized arrangement state. That is, the pigments (P) can be aligned by the initialization waveform (WI) to an arrangement state that is easy to move by the color waveform (Wc).

[0112] At this time, the initialization waveform (WI) can be formed identically regardless of the color output by the color waveform (Wc). That is, as soon as the voltage from the initialization waveform (WI) is input, it moves to the zero position (L0) on the color coordinates, and then reaches the position of the set color by the color waveform (Wc), so the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the set color.

[0113] And, the zero point position (L0) can be set to the position with the smallest standard deviation from any position (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) on the color coordinates that can be output through the electrophoretic panel (32). In the drawing, only five of the arbitrary positions are described by drawing symbols, but the number is not limited and can be set to a sufficient number to satisfy the set standard deviation.

[0114] In detail, to derive the zero position (L0), arbitrary color positions (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) are repeatedly specified and pulses are input and compared until a zero position (L0) is derived from arbitrary color positions (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) on the color coordinates that can be output from the color coordinates, such that the standard deviation is less than or equal to a set value.

[0115] At this time, the selected arbitrary color positions (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) may be edge regions of the area (A) on the color coordinates. Therefore, when a point is selected where the standard deviation of the zero position (P0) is minimized, it may be possible to select the point that is easiest to reach arbitrary color positions (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5) within the area (A) of the color coordinates.

[0116] Meanwhile, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output a set color based on the initialization waveform (WI) and color waveform (Wc) obtained in this way.

[0117] For example, in order to output a set color through the electrophoretic panel (32), the desired set color can first be input. The input of the set color can be made by direct operation input by the user. Alternatively, the input of the set color may be made automatically by the control unit (38) itself upon the satisfaction of specific conditions. [Color Input Step]

[0118] In addition, the control unit (38) stores a plurality of inputtable set colors and corresponding waveforms (W), and when the set color is input, the waveform (W) for the movement of the corresponding pigment particle (P) is input to provide a voltage for the movement of the pigment particle (P). At this time, the waveform (Wc) can be configured so that the color waveform (Wc) is executed after the initialization waveform (WI) is executed. [Waveform Input Step]

[0119] A corresponding voltage is input to the electrophoretic panel (32) according to the input of the waveform (W), and the position of the pigment particle (P) is moved according to the change in the voltage according to the waveform (W) so that a set color can be output. [Color output step]

[0120] Below, the waveform (W, waveform) for the color output of the electrophoretic panel (32) is described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0121] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing examples of the output color and waveform of the electrophoretic panel.

[0122] As described, the waveform (W) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an initialization waveform (WI) and a color waveform (Wc). The initialization waveform (WI) is a waveform for outputting a reference color that is zero-shifted to output a set color.

[0123] That is, the initialization waveform (WI) is intended to arrange the pigment (P) inside the microcapsule (33) in a state that facilitates movement before the output of the user-specified set color. Through the initialization waveform (WI), the pigment (P) can be arranged in a reference state that facilitates movement to other colors. Therefore, even if the previous output colors are different, the pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) can be aligned in a stable arrangement state that facilitates movement through the initialization waveform (WI).

[0124] Additionally, a color waveform (Wc) may be input after the termination of the initialization waveform (WI). The color waveform (Wc) is intended for outputting a user-specified set color.

[0125] The above initialization waveform (WI) is performed for a set time (TI) and may be composed of a combination of multiple pulses that change between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2). For example, the set time (TI) may be 10 seconds, the high voltage (V1) may be +30V, and the low voltage (V2) may be -30V.

[0126] The above color waveform (Wc) may also be performed for a set time (Tc) and may be composed of a combination of multiple pulses that change between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2). For example, the set time (Tc) may be 10 seconds, and the high voltage (V2) may be +30V and the low voltage (V2) may be -30V.

[0127] At this time, the color waveform (Wc) can divide the voltage level into 20 intervals within a set time (Tc) and set the change of pulses based on 1-second intervals. Therefore, it is possible to implement a waveform with appropriate precision while relatively reducing the load for computation.

[0128] Meanwhile, although FIG. 9 illustrates that the high voltage (V1) and low voltage (V2) are +30V and -30V respectively, the microcapsule (33) according to the embodiment of the present invention can have high voltage (V1) and low voltage (V2) up to +40V and -40V respectively, depending on the color output from the electrophoretic panel (32).

[0129] Next, with reference to Fig. 10, the waveform for each color is explained as an example.

[0130] As described above, for the output of a set color set by the user, an initialization waveform (WI) is first input for a set time (TI), and after the initialization waveform (WI) ends, color waveforms (Wc::W1~W4) for outputting the target color may be input for a set time. The set time (TI) of the initialization waveform (WI) may be called the first set time, and may be, for example, 10 seconds. Also, the set time (Tc) of the color waveform (Wc) may be called the second set time, and may be, for example, 10 seconds. Therefore, the set time (TI) of the initialization waveform (WI) and the set time (Tc) of the color waveform (Wc) may be the same, and the input time of the entire waveform (W) for outputting the set color may be 20 seconds.

[0131] Additionally, the initialization waveform (WI) may be composed of the same waveform directed toward a point with minimal deviation from the color achievable in the electrophoretic panel (32). That is, regardless of the color output by the color waveforms (W1~W4), the initialization waveform (WI) can always be fixed as the same waveform.

[0132] The above color waveforms (W1~W4) may be composed of a combination of pulses optimized for outputting a set color. Specifically, the above color waveforms (W1~W4) may be composed of a combination of multiple pulses formed between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2), and the voltage of each continuously repeated pulse may have a relatively high or low value, thereby allowing the arrangement of the pigments (P), which have different magnitudes and positive and negative values, to change continuously. At this time, the waveforms (WI, Wc) can be composed by combining the pulses while keeping the input time (t) for each of the multiple pulses fixed at the same level, and only changing the input voltage. For example, the high voltage (V1) and the low voltage (V2) may each be between +40 and -40, and the input time (t) may be 1 second.

[0133] Below, the above color waveform is explained in more detail using a specific color as an example.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 10 (a), an initialization waveform (WI) for outputting a first color (C1) is performed for a set time (TI), and then a first color waveform (W1) can be performed for a set time (T1). For example, the first color (C1) may be Fenix ​​Botanic.

[0135] The first color waveform (W1) can be formed by combining pulses having input voltages of -22v, 14v, -22v, 14v, 34v, 2v, -8v, 6v, and -6v sequentially from 0V after the termination of the initialization waveform (WI). Each pulse can be input for 1 second. That is, the first color waveform (W1) can be configured to have 10 pulses for 10 seconds between -22v and 34v. The pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) are moved and arranged by the repeatedly changing voltages in this way, and finally, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the first color (C1).

[0136] Referring to FIG. 10(b), an initialization waveform (WI) for outputting a second color (C2) is performed for a set time (TI), and then a second color waveform (W2) can be performed for a set time (T2). For example, the second color (C2) may be purple.

[0137] The second color waveform (W2) can be formed by combining pulses having input voltages of -32v, 14v, -10v, 30v, -6v, 20v, -6v, 30v, and -6v sequentially from 0v after the termination of the initialization waveform (WI). Each pulse can be input for 1 second. That is, the second color waveform (W2) can be configured to have 10 pulses for 10 seconds between -32v and 30v. The pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) are moved and arranged by the repeatedly changing voltages in this way, and finally, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the second color (C2).

[0138] Referring to FIG. 10 (c), an initialization waveform (WI) for outputting a third color (C3) is performed for a set time (TI), and then a third color waveform (W3) can be performed for a set time (T3). For example, the third color (C3) may be clay brown.

[0139] The third color waveform (W3) can be formed by combining pulses having input voltages of -22v, 28v, -4v, 22v, -24v, 24v, -28v, 28v, and -14v in sequence from 0V after the termination of the initialization waveform (WI). Each pulse can be input for 1 second. That is, the third color waveform (W3) can be configured to have 10 pulses for 10 seconds between -28v and 28v. The pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) are moved and arranged by the repeatedly changing voltages in this way, and finally, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the third color (C3).

[0140] Referring to FIG. 10 (d), an initialization waveform (WI) for outputting a fourth color (C4) is performed for a set time (TI), and then a fourth color waveform (W4) can be performed for a set time (T4). For example, the fourth color (C4) may be Fenix ​​sand.

[0141] The above fourth color waveform (W4) can be formed by combining pulses having input voltages of -22v, 2v, -8v, 32v, -2v, 20v, -28v, 12v, and -4v sequentially from 0V after the termination of the initialization waveform (WI). Each pulse can be input for 1 second. That is, the above fourth color waveform (W4) can be configured to have 10 pulses for 10 seconds between -28v and 32v. The pigments (P) inside the microcapsule (33) are moved and arranged by the repeatedly changing voltages in this way, and finally, the electrophoretic panel (32) can output the fourth color (C4).

[0142] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the color arrangement distribution by a color waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention in color coordinates with the L value fixed. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the color arrangement distribution by a color waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention in color coordinates according to L value ranges.

[0143] As described, the electrophoretic panel (32) according to the embodiment of the present invention, based on the excellent durability of the microcapsule (33), has a wide range between the high voltage (V1) and the low voltage (V2) of approximately -40V to 40V, and the pulses constituting the waveform (W) can be combined in a large number of 5 to 40, so that approximately 30,000 types of colors can be output.

[0144] In detail, FIG. 11 shows the distribution of the overall output colors with the L (Lightness) value fixed, which is the outputtable color of the electrophoretic panel (32) according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the illustrated area of ​​FIG. 11 is divided into four parts, the outputtable colors are mainly distributed relatively in the second and fourth quadrants. The outputtable colors can be distributed in the area between -5 and 5 based on the a-axis and between -10 and -2.5 based on the b-axis, and in the area between -12 and -2.5 based on the a-axis and between -2.5 and 7 based on the b-axis.

[0145] That is, the above electrophoretic panel (32) can output a relatively large number of green colors compared to red colors based on the a-axis, and can output a relatively large number of blue colors compared to yellow colors based on the b-axis.

[0146] And, referring to Fig. 12 (a), when the L value is 25-40, the outputtable colors are distributed relatively densely in the area between -2 and 7 on the a-axis and between -17 and 7 on the b-axis, and are distributed relatively widely in the area between -7 and 27 on the a-axis and between -35 and -17 on the b-axis.

[0147] And, referring to Fig. 12 (b), when the L value is 40-50, the outputtable colors are concentrated in the area between -5 and 7 on the a-axis and between -15 and 10 on the b-axis.

[0148] And, referring to (c) of Fig. 12, when the L value is 50-60, the outputtable colors are concentrated in the area between -10 and 3 on the a-axis and between 0 and 40 on the b-axis.

[0149] And, referring to (d) of Fig. 12, when the L value is 60-78, the outputtable colors are concentrated in the area between -15 and -5 on the a-axis and between 05 and 60 on the b-axis.

[0150] As such, it can be seen through the color coordinates of FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12 that the electrophoretic panel (32) according to an embodiment of the present invention can output various colors.

[0151] Meanwhile, the electrophoretic panel (32) according to the embodiment of the present invention can be applied to various other home appliances in addition to refrigerators.

[0152] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing examples of home appliances equipped with a phoretic panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] As illustrated in the drawing, the home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an exterior formed by a panel assembly (30) including the electrophoretic panel (32), and the exterior may be changed to a color set by the user according to the operation of the electrophoretic panel (32). The exterior of the panel assembly (30) may be expressed in various colors by the electrophoretic panel (32), and may also be capable of displaying pictures, text, images, and videos on the screen.

[0154] The above-mentioned home appliance may be any one of a refrigerator (1), an air conditioner (200), a dishwasher (300), a garment care device (400), a washing machine (500), a cooking appliance (600), or a vacuum cleaner (700), and each of these may have a structure similar to the panel assembly (30) of the embodiments of the present invention so that the exterior color of the front surface may be freely changed.

[0155] For example, as in the embodiments described above, the panel assembly (30) may be provided on the front of the door (20) that opens and closes the cabinet (10) in the refrigerator (1). Then, the panel assembly (30) may light up in a set color according to user settings, and the front exterior color of the refrigerator (1) may be changed.

[0156] As another example, the indoor unit of the air conditioner (200) may have a space formed inside a case (201, or cabinet) that forms the exterior, in which a heat exchanger and a fan are provided. In addition, the front of the case (201) may be formed by a panel assembly (202). The panel assembly (202) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), similar to the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0157] Accordingly, the panel assembly (202) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the indoor unit of the air conditioner (200) can be changed to a set color.

[0158] As another example, the dishwasher (300) may have a space for washing dishes formed inside a case (301, or cabinet) that forms the exterior. The front of the case (301) may be opened and closed by a door (302), and the front of the door (302) may be formed by a panel assembly (303). The panel assembly (303) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), as with the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0159] Accordingly, the panel assembly (303) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the dishwasher (300) can be changed to a set color.

[0160] As another example, the above-described garment care device (400) may have a space for storing clothes formed inside a case (401, or cabinet) that forms the exterior. The front of the case (401) may be opened and closed by a door (402), and the front of the door (402) may be formed by a panel assembly (403). The panel assembly (403) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), as with the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0161] Accordingly, the panel assembly (403) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the garment care device (400) can be changed to a set color.

[0162] As another example, the washing machine (500) and / or dryer (500) may have a space for washing or drying formed inside a case (501, or cabinet) that forms the exterior. And, the front of the case (501) may be opened and closed by a door (502). Meanwhile, the front of the case (501) may be formed by a panel assembly (503). The panel assembly (503) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), as with the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0163] Accordingly, the panel assembly (30) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the washing machine (500) or dryer can be changed to a set color.

[0164] As another example, the above cooking device (600) may have a space for cooking food formed inside a case (601, or cabinet) that forms the exterior. The front of the case (601) may be opened and closed by a door (602), and the front of the door (602) may be formed by a panel assembly (603). The panel assembly (603) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), as with the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0165] Accordingly, the panel assembly (603) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the cooking device (600) can be changed to a set color.

[0166] As another example, the vacuum cleaner (700) may be provided with a dust container on one side of the main body (701) for collecting dust and a nozzle for sucking dust. Additionally, a panel assembly (702) having a shape corresponding to the main body (701) or the dust container may be provided on the outer surface of the main body (701) or the dust container. The panel assembly (702) may be visible in a color set by the electrophoretic panel (32), similar to the panel assembly (30) described above.

[0167] Accordingly, the panel assembly (702) is illuminated with a set color by user settings, and the front exterior color of the vacuum cleaner (700) can be changed to a set color.

[0168] In this way, the home appliance of the present invention has an electrophoretic display (EPD) panel attached to a component forming the exterior, so that the design or color of the exterior can be changed based on user input or operating status.

[0169] The home appliances of the present invention may include refrigerators, air conditioners, air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, cooking appliances, dishwashers, garment care appliances, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, etc. However, the types of home appliances are not limited to the above examples, and any device provided in the user's home that assists with the user's household chores may be included without limitation.

[0170] The driving method of the home appliance and the panel for the home appliance according to the embodiment of the present invention has high industrial applicability because it enables accurate expression of exterior color and fine adjustment of exterior color.

Claims

1. A panel assembly including an electrophoretic panel that forms an exterior and outputs a set color; and A control unit that provides a voltage input waveform for outputting the above-mentioned set color; is included, The electrophoretic panel comprises a pair of electrodes spaced apart from each other and a microcapsule containing three or more color pigment particles disposed between the electrodes and charged to have a positive or negative charge. The above control unit is, A home appliance that outputs the set color by a combination of multiple pulses such that voltages of different magnitudes from the previous voltage are continuously and repeatedly input at equal input time intervals (t) in the range between high voltage (V1) and low voltage (V2).

2. In Paragraph 1, The above microcapsule is a home appliance formed by accommodating pigment particles in a spherical capsule having elasticity.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above electrophoresis panel is, It includes a pair of films spaced apart from each other, with electrodes disposed on surfaces facing each other, A home appliance in which the space between the above pair of films is filled with a plurality of microcapsules together with a binder.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above microcapsule is a home appliance in which at least a portion is formed into a planar shape by being pressed by a pair of films.

5. In Paragraph 3, The above capsule is a home appliance formed from an elastically deformable material.

6. In Paragraph 1, A home appliance in which pigment particles of different colors having the same polarity among the above pigment particles are formed in different sizes.

7. In Paragraph 1, A home appliance comprising 5 to 40 of the above multiple pulses.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above panel assembly is, A home appliance that is detachably provided on the front of the door body of a refrigerator that opens and closes the storage space.

9. In Paragraph 9, The above panel assembly includes a cover plate formed of glass material to form the front surface, and The above electrophoretic panel is a home appliance that is adhered to the back surface of the above cover plate.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above panel assembly is a home appliance that forms the exterior of any one of a refrigerator, air conditioner, air purifier, vacuum cleaner, cooking appliance, dishwasher, clothing care appliance, washing machine, or vacuum cleaner.

11. In a home appliance equipped with an electrophoretic panel comprising a film having a pair of spaced-apart electrodes, and a spherical microcapsule containing three or more colored pigment particles disposed together with a binder between the films and charged to have a positive or negative charge, Color input step where the desired output setting color is input; A waveform input step in which a voltage waveform corresponding to the positional change of pigment particles of the input color is input; and It includes a color output step in which the set color is output by the positional movement of pigment particles according to the input waveform, and The above waveform is, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, comprising a combination of multiple pulses such that a voltage of a different magnitude from the previous voltage is continuously and repeatedly input at the same input time (t) interval in the range between a high voltage (V1) and a low voltage (V2).

12. In Paragraph 11, The above waveform is a driving method for a panel for a home appliance, wherein the above pulse is repeated 5 to 40 times.

13. In Paragraph 11, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, wherein the above high voltage is 40V and the above low voltage is -40V.

14. In Paragraph 11, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, wherein the setting time for inputting the above waveform is 20 to 25 seconds.

15. In Paragraph 11, The above waveform is, An initialization waveform for arranging the pigment particles into a reference state, and A driving method for a panel for a home appliance comprising a color waveform that moves the pigment particles to output the set color after the termination of the initialization waveform.

16. In Paragraph 15, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance in which the input time (t) of each pulse constituting the initialization waveform and the color waveform is the same.

17. In Paragraph 15, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance in which the above initial waveform is input for a period of time equal to or longer than the above color waveform.

18. In Paragraph 15, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, wherein when the above initialization waveform is terminated, a pulse constituting the color waveform starts at a voltage of 0V.

19. In Paragraph 15, In the waveform input step above, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, which acquires outputtable color waveforms by repeatedly inputting arbitrary pulses and then capturing and comparing actual colors through a vision camera.

20. In Paragraph 19, A driving method for a panel for a home appliance, wherein pulses constituting the above color waveform are formed by repeatedly inputting and combining different arbitrary input voltages at the same input time (t) interval.

Images