WO2024210697A1 - Dehumidifier and method for controlling same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dehumidifier for saving power and a method for controlling the dehumidifier. The dehumidifier sets a target humidity value on the basis of an input humidity value received through an input interface during a power-saving mode, acquires an indication frequency of a compressor on the basis of the target humidity value and a humidity value that is detected by a humidity sensor, and reduces the acquired indication frequency of the compressor at a pre-set rate so as to control the operation of the compressor.

Description

Dehumidifier and its control method

The disclosed invention relates to a dehumidifier for power saving and a method for controlling the same.

In general, with regard to humidity in the air, when humidity is high, decay, corrosion, condensation occur, and bad smells and bacteria also occur. For this reason, dehumidifiers that remove moisture are required for electrical, communication, and various electronic equipment that are vulnerable to moisture, and for spaces where people live.

Dehumidifiers are divided into refrigeration-type dehumidifiers that use a compressor in a refrigeration cycle to lower the temperature of the refrigerant and then condense the moisture contained in the refrigerant to dehumidify, and adsorption-type dehumidifiers that use an adsorbent (or dehumidifier, moisture absorbent) to adsorb moisture contained in the air to dehumidify.

Existing refrigerated dehumidifiers had problems such as heat exchanger failure in low-temperature and low-humidity environments, and the compressor rotation speed could not be reduced even when humidity was low, resulting in low efficiency.

In the case of refrigerated dehumidifiers currently on the market, there is no power-saving mode, or even if there is a power-saving mode, the effect of the power-saving function is minimal, as it only turns off the display in response to the power-saving mode.

One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a dehumidifier and a control method thereof that automatically sets a target humidity value and a frequency of a compressor while taking comfort into consideration when performing a power-saving mode.

Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides a dehumidifier and a control method thereof, which learns an input humidity value input by a user when performing a normal mode to obtain a preferred humidity value and sets a target humidity value to be used in a power-saving mode based on the obtained preferred humidity value and comfort level.

A dehumidifier according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a compressor; an input interface for receiving user input; and a processor for reducing a command frequency of the compressor at a preset rate in response to a power saving mode received through the input interface.

The dehumidifier according to one aspect further includes a humidity sensor for detecting humidity. The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect sets a target humidity value based on an input humidity value received through an input interface, and determines an instruction frequency of the compressor based on the target humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect obtains an input humidity value through an input interface in a normal mode, learns the obtained input humidity value to obtain a preferred humidity value, and sets a target humidity value based on the obtained preferred humidity value.

A processor of a dehumidifier according to one aspect obtains an input humidity value of a current driving cycle received through the input interface before the power-off command is received when a power-off command is received through the input interface in a normal mode, obtains a first average value of input humidity values of pre-stored driving cycles, obtains a second average value between the first average value and the input humidity value of the confirmed current driving cycle, and obtains the obtained second average value as a preferred humidity value.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect obtains a preferred humidity value by rounding down the unit of work of the second average value to a preset unit.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect sets a target humidity value by adding the preferred humidity value and the preset humidity value if the preferred humidity value is within the reference humidity range, and sets the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value if the preferred humidity value is outside the reference humidity range.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect releases the power-saving mode if the change in the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is equal to or lower than a first preset value after a first period of time has elapsed from the time the operation in the power-saving mode began, and if the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is equal to or higher than a second preset value after a second period of time different from the first period of time has elapsed from the time the operation in the power-saving mode began.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect controls the operation of the compressor at the compressor instruction frequency determined when the power saving mode is released.

The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect re-executes the power saving mode when the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is lower than a preset third set value in response to the release of the power saving mode, or when the detected humidity value exceeds a value obtained by subtracting a preset fourth set value from the input humidity value.

A dehumidifier according to one aspect further includes a first heat exchanger connected to a compressor; a second heat exchanger connected to the first heat exchanger; and a fan for moving air heat-exchanged in the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The compressor, the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the fan of the dehumidifier according to one aspect are integrally provided inside a housing. An air passage of the first heat exchanger of the dehumidifier according to one aspect, an air passage of the second heat exchanger, and an air passage of the fan are the same passage.

The dehumidifier according to one aspect further includes a communication unit for receiving a power price. The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect further reduces a preset ratio as the received power price is higher.

The dehumidifier according to one aspect further includes a display. The processor of the dehumidifier according to one aspect controls the display to display a level of the power saving mode corresponding to the received power price in the power saving mode.

A control method of a dehumidifier according to another aspect is a control method of a dehumidifier including a compressor, wherein a target humidity value is set based on an input humidity value received through an input interface during execution of a power-saving mode, an instruction frequency of the compressor is determined based on the target humidity value and a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor, and the operation of the compressor is controlled by reducing the determined instruction frequency of the compressor at a preset rate.

Setting a target humidity value includes acquiring an input humidity value received at an input interface during execution of a normal mode, learning the confirmed input humidity value to acquire a preferred humidity value, and setting a target humidity value based on the acquired preferred humidity value.

Obtaining a preferred humidity value includes: when a power-off command is received through the input interface during execution of a normal mode, acquiring an input humidity value received through the input interface before the power-off command is received; acquiring a first average value of input humidity values of driving cycles stored in a memory; acquiring a second average value between the acquired first average value and the acquired input humidity value; and rounding down a unit of work of the acquired second average value to a preset unit to acquire a preferred humidity value.

Setting the target humidity value includes setting the target humidity value based on the preferred humidity value and the preset humidity value if the preferred humidity value is less than the reference humidity value, and setting the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value if the preferred humidity value is greater than or equal to the reference humidity value.

A method for controlling a dehumidifier according to another aspect further includes releasing the power-saving mode if a change in a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor is equal to or lower than a first preset setting value after a first time period has elapsed from the time of starting the power-saving mode, and if a humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is equal to or higher than a second preset setting value after a second time period has elapsed from the time of starting the power-saving mode, and controlling the operation of the compressor at an instruction frequency of the compressor determined in response to the release of the power-saving mode.

A method of controlling a dehumidifier according to another aspect further includes re-executing the power-saving mode when a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor is lower than a preset third set value in response to the release of the power-saving mode, or when the detected humidity value exceeds a value obtained by subtracting a preset fourth set value from an input humidity value.

A method for controlling a dehumidifier according to another aspect further includes receiving a power price through a communication unit, confirming a preset ratio corresponding to the received power price, and reducing the command frequency of a compressor based on the confirmed preset ratio.

The preset ratio corresponding to the received electricity price is higher the higher the received electricity price is.

According to embodiments of the disclosed invention, the present invention can save energy (i.e., power) without significantly damaging the comfort level by automatically setting the target humidity value and the frequency of the compressor while considering the comfort level when performing the power-saving mode. Accordingly, the present invention can improve the user satisfaction and enhance the marketability of the product.

In addition, the present invention can help prevent respiratory disorders and diseases and create a pleasant indoor atmosphere by maintaining indoor air at an appropriate humidity (e.g., 40% to 60%).

Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 2 is a control configuration diagram of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 3 is an exemplary diagram of a display of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 4 is an example diagram for setting a target humidity value of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 5 is a graph of power consumption corresponding to the frequency of the compressor of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 6 is a drawing showing the power consumption and dehumidification amount according to the operation mode of the dehumidifier according to the embodiment.

Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the power amount, dehumidification amount, and energy-saving rate according to control conditions for each operation mode of the dehumidifier.

Figure 9 is a drawing showing the timing of releasing and re-enabling the power-saving mode of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

Figure 10 is a control flow chart of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d are drawings showing the energy-saving effect of a dehumidifier according to the size of indoor space according to an embodiment.

It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations of them.

The term "and/or" includes any combination of multiple related described elements or any one of multiple related described elements.

Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, level, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in this document, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, levels, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “contacted” with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

A dehumidifier according to various embodiments refers to a device that performs functions such as humidity control in a dehumidification space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”).

According to one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the dehumidifier (1) includes a refrigeration cycle for dehumidification. The refrigeration cycle includes a compressor (10), a first heat exchanger (20), and a second heat exchanger (30) through which a refrigerant is circulated, and may further include an expansion device, and may further include a refrigerant pipe connecting the compressor, the first heat exchanger (20), the expansion device, and the second heat exchanger (30). All components of the refrigeration cycle may be built into a single housing forming the exterior of the dehumidifier.

The first heat exchanger (20) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and air by utilizing a phase change (e.g., condensation) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is condensed in the first heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the surrounding air.

Likewise, the second heat exchanger (30) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the surrounding air by utilizing a phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation). For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the second heat exchanger (30), the refrigerant can absorb heat from the surrounding air.

That is, the dehumidifier (1) performs a dehumidifying function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating through the first heat exchanger (20) and the second heat exchanger (30). For this circulation of the refrigerant, the dehumidifier (1) may include a compressor (10) that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor (10) can suck in refrigerant gas through an intake portion and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor (10) can discharge high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas through an exhaust portion.

The refrigerant can circulate in the order of a compressor (10), a first heat exchanger (20), an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger (30) through a refrigerant pipe.

The dehumidifier (1) may include an expansion device to lower the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger (30).

The expansion device can lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant by, for example, using the throttling effect. The expansion device can include an orifice that can reduce the cross-sectional area of the passage. The refrigerant passing through the orifice can have its temperature and pressure lowered.

The expansion device can be implemented as an electronic expansion valve, for example, which can control the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the valve's flow path in a partially open state to the cross-sectional area of the valve's flow path in a fully open state). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

The dehumidifier (1) may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor (10). Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant evaporated in the second heat exchanger (30) may be introduced into the accumulator.

The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when the refrigerant, which is a mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas, is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor (10).

A fan (40) may be provided near the first heat exchanger (20). The fan (40) may blow air that has passed through the first heat exchanger (20). The fan (40) may also cause air to flow into the interior of the housing of the dehumidifier.

The dehumidifier (1) may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the dehumidifier may be provided as an environmental sensor.

The sensor of the dehumidifier may be placed at any location inside or outside the dehumidifier. For example, the sensor of the dehumidifier may include a temperature sensor for detecting air temperature around the dehumidifier, a humidity sensor for detecting air humidity around the dehumidifier, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting refrigerant temperature of the refrigerant pipe passing through the first heat exchanger (20), or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting refrigerant pressure of the refrigerant pipe passing through the first heat exchanger (20).

The sensors of the dehumidifier may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors that detect the inlet, middle, and/or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant lines passing through the second heat exchanger (30).

For example, each environmental information detected by the sensor of the dehumidifier may be transmitted to the processor described below or transmitted externally through the communication unit described below.

The dehumidifier (1) may further include a filter provided to filter foreign substances in the air flowing into the housing through the intake port.

The dehumidifier may include an exhaust port for discharging air flowing inside the housing to the outside.

The dehumidifier may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include a blade positioned on the exhaust port.

The air flow paths passing through the first heat exchanger (20), the second heat exchanger (30), and the fan (40) arranged between the intake and exhaust ports of the housing of the dehumidifier (1) may be the same.

That is, the air flow path passing through the second heat exchanger (30), the air flow path passing through the first heat exchanger (20), and the air flow path blown through the fan (40) may be the same.

Briefly explaining the dehumidification process, moist air sucked into the housing through the inlet of the dehumidifier passes through the second heat exchanger (30). The moisture in the air passing through the second heat exchanger changes into dew when it comes into contact with the cold surface of the second heat exchanger (30) below the dew point temperature. At this time, the moisture in the air can be removed and the temperature can be lowered.

And the air that has passed through the second heat exchanger (30) has its temperature increased and becomes dry as it passes through the first heat exchanger (20). The dry air that has passed through the second heat exchanger can be discharged to the outside of the housing through the exhaust port by the blowing force of the fan (40).

The dehumidifier (1) may include a drain tray (50) disposed below the second heat exchanger (30) to collect dew changed in the second heat exchanger (30). The dew (i.e. water) collected in the drain tray (50) may be drained to the outside through a drain hose.

The dehumidifier (1) may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and/or a touch pad. The user may directly input setting data (e.g., indoor humidity and/or normal/power-saving mode) through the input interface.

The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in the room, such as a portion of a wall.

A user can input setting data regarding the operation of the dehumidifier by operating a wired remote controller. An electrical signal corresponding to the setting data acquired through the wired remote controller can be transmitted to the input interface.

Additionally, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. The user may input setting data regarding the operation of the dehumidifier remotely using a wireless remote controller. Setting data input via the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to the processor.

The input interface may include hardware devices such as various buttons, switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various levers, handles, or sticks.

In addition, the input interface (110) may include a GUI (Graphical User Interface), i.e., a software device, such as a touch pad. The touch pad may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) and may form a mutual layer structure with the display.

It can be composed of a touch screen panel (TSP) that forms an interconnected layer structure with a touch pad.

The processor can control the configurations of the dehumidifier to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. The setting data (e.g., indoor humidity and/or normal/power saving mode) obtained through the input interface can be transmitted to the processor described below. In one example, the setting data obtained through the input interface can be transmitted to the outside, i.e., to a server, through the communication unit described below.

The dehumidifier (1) may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to components of the dehumidifier.

The dehumidifier (1) may include a communication unit. The communication unit may be arranged to receive a control signal from a processor of the dehumidifier, which will be described later. The dehumidifier may control the operation of a compressor, an expansion device, an accumulator, or a fan based on the control signal received through the communication unit. A sensing value detected from a sensor of the dehumidifier may be transmitted to the processor through the communication unit.

The communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module. The communication unit may include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with another device.

The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a Near Field Communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, a UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

The communication unit can communicate with external devices such as a server, a mobile device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the dehumidifier or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The dehumidifier or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The dehumidifier can be electrically connected to components of the dehumidifier and can include a processor that controls the operation of each component.

The processor can control the frequency of the compressor and the rotation speed of the fan. In addition, the processor can generate a control signal for controlling the opening of the expansion valve. Under the control of the processor, the refrigerant can be circulated along the refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor (1), the first heat exchanger (20), the expansion valve, and the second heat exchanger (30).

The various temperature sensors included in the dehumidifier can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the processor. In addition, the humidity sensors included in the dehumidifier can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the processor.

The processor can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, through a communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through an input interface or through a remote controller.

When the processor receives a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operating mode, such as a normal mode and a power-saving mode, the processor can control each component so that an operation of the dehumidifier corresponding to the selected operating mode is performed.

A processor may include at least one processor and at least one memory.

The memory can store/remember various information necessary for the operation of the dehumidifier. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and/or programs necessary for the operation of the dehumidifier. For example, the memory can store various programs for the normal mode and/or power-saving mode of the dehumidifier. The memory can include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) for long-term storage of data.

The processor can generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the dehumidifier based on instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in the memory. The processor, as hardware, can include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to the program and/or instructions provided from the memory, and generate a control signal according to the processing result. The memory and the processor can be implemented as one control circuit or implemented as multiple circuits.

The dehumidifier (1) may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the processor and may output information related to the operation of the dehumidifier under the control of the processor. For example, information such as an operating mode and humidity selected by a user input may be output. In addition, the output interface may output sensing information acquired from sensors and warning/error messages.

The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker may be an acoustic device that outputs various sounds. The display may display information input by a user or information provided to the user as various graphic elements. For example, operation information of the dehumidifier may be displayed as at least one of an image or text. In addition, the display may include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include an LCD panel (Liquid Crystal Display Panel), an LED panel (Light Emitting Diode Panel), an OLED panel (Organic Light Emitting Diode Panel), a micro LED panel, and/or a plurality of LEDs.

The display may be, but is not limited to, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a digital light processing (DLP) panel, a plasma display panel, an electroluminescence (EL) panel, an electrophoretic display (EPD) panel, or an electrochromic display (ECD) panel.

Hereinafter, dehumidifiers according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

Figure 2 is a control configuration diagram of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

The dehumidifier (1) includes an input interface (110), an output interface (120), a humidity sensor (130), a communication unit (140), a processor (150), and a memory (160).

The input interface (110) receives user input and transmits the received user input to the processor (150).

The user input includes a normal mode and a power saving mode, and includes a humidity value desired by the user. Here, the humidity value is a value input by the user, and is hereinafter referred to as the input humidity value.

User input may further include a power on command and a power off command.

The input interface (110) may include a microphone for receiving user input as a voice or a camera for receiving user input as a video.

The microphone can transmit voice information about the received user's voice to the processor (150). The camera can transmit image information about the received user's motion to the processor (150).

The output interface (120) can output information corresponding to a control command of the processor (150).

The output interface (120) can output user input in response to a control command of the processor (150).

The output interface (120) can display the input humidity value.

The output interface (120) can output the driving mode selected by the user.

The output interface (120) can output information on releasing the power-saving mode and information on re-executing the power-saving mode while the power-saving mode is being performed.

The output interface (120) can display the preferred humidity value and the target humidity value during the performance of the power saving mode.

The output interface (120) can output the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130). The humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) can be an indoor humidity value.

The output interface (120) can output information about the DR (Demand Response) level.

The output interface (120) can output information about the level of power saving mode.

The level of the power saving mode may include a first power saving level corresponding to the first DR level, a second power saving level corresponding to the second DR level, and a third power saving level corresponding to the third DR level, as levels corresponding to the DR levels.

The first DR level may be a mode in which the value of power supplied from the power source is the cheapest, and the third DR level may be a mode in which the value of power supplied from the power source is the most expensive.

The output interface (120) may include a display that outputs image information and a speaker that outputs sound information.

The display can indicate power saving mode by displaying text, displaying a video, or lighting up a light-emitting diode.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the display may include a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to indicate a power saving mode, and may indicate the level of the power saving mode by lighting up some or all of the LEDs corresponding to the level of the power saving mode.

For example, the display lights up one light-emitting diode when the power-saving mode is at the first power-saving level, lights up two light-emitting diodes when the power-saving mode is at the second power-saving level, and lights up three light-emitting diodes when the power-saving mode is at the third power-saving level.

The display can display one power saving emoticon when the power saving mode is at power saving level 1, two power saving emoticons when the power saving mode is at power saving level 2, and three power saving emoticons when the power saving mode is at power saving level 3.

The humidity sensor (130) can detect the humidity in the room where the dehumidifier is placed and transmit the humidity value for the detected humidity to the processor (150).

The humidity sensor (130) may be provided inside the housing of the dehumidifier (1) or may be provided outside the housing of the dehumidifier.

The humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) may be a relative humidity value.

The humidity sensor (130) may be an electrical resistance humidity sensor or a capacitive humidity sensor.

The humidity sensor (130) may be a ceramic humidity sensor, a polymer humidity sensor, an electrolyte humidity sensor, a microwave humidity sensor, an ultrasonic humidity sensor, a radiation humidity sensor, or a heat transfer humidity sensor.

The humidity sensor (130) may be a temperature and humidity sensor that detects both temperature and humidity.

The communication unit (140) may include one or more components that enable communication between components within the dehumidifier.

The communication unit (140) may include one or more components that enable communication with an external device, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module. Here, the external device may include a remote controller (not shown), a user device (not shown), and a server (not shown).

The short-range communication module may include various short-range communication modules that transmit and receive signals using a wireless communication network at a short range, such as a Bluetooth module, an infrared (infra-red) communication module, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) communication module, a WLAN (Wireless Local Access Network) communication module, an NFC communication module, and a Zigbee communication module.

The processor (150) controls the operation of the dehumidifier (1). The number of processors (150) provided in the dehumidifier (1) may be one or two or more. That is, the number of processors (150) may be at least one.

The processor (150) performs control related to the operation of the dehumidifier (1) using data stored in the memory (160).

The operation of this processor (150) will be described in more detail.

The processor (150) determines the driving mode based on user input received from the input interface (110). The user input may include a button signal, a key signal, a touch signal, and may include a voice signal or a video signal.

The processor (150) can identify a voice based on a voice signal if the user input is a voice signal, and can also detect the user's motion through image processing and image analysis if the user input is a video signal.

The processor (150) determines an input humidity value based on user input received from the input interface (110).

The processor (150) can also determine the driving mode and input humidity value based on a communication signal received through the communication unit (140).

The communication signal received through the communication unit (140) may be a signal corresponding to a user input, and may be a communication signal received from at least one of a remote controller, a user device, and a server.

When the processor (150) determines that the driving mode is the normal mode, it identifies the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) and controls the operation of the compressor (10) and the fan (40) based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) and the confirmed input humidity value.

The processor (150) determines whether the detected humidity value is less than the input humidity value, and if it is determined that the detected humidity value is less than the input humidity value, it controls the compressor (10) and the fan (40) to stop, and can periodically check the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) during the stop control of the compressor (10) and the fan (40).

The processor (150) can control the operation of the compressor (10) and the fan (40) when the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) is higher than the input humidity value while the compressor (10) and the fan (40) are stopped.

When controlling the operation of the compressor (10), the processor (150) determines whether the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, and if it is determined that the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the confirmed input humidity value, it determines the difference value between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, determines the instruction frequency of the compressor corresponding to the determined difference value, and controls the operation of the compressor (10) based on the determined instruction frequency of the compressor.

Here, the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference value between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value may be information acquired through a test as information stored in advance.

The smaller the difference between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, the lower the compressor's command frequency can be.

When controlling the operation of the fan (40), the processor (150) determines whether the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, and if it is determined that the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, it checks the difference between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, checks the rotation speed of the fan corresponding to the checked difference value, and can control the operation of the fan (40) based on the checked rotation speed of the fan.

Here, the rotation speed of the fan corresponding to the difference between the detected humidity value and the confirmed input humidity value may be information acquired through a test as information stored in advance.

The processor (150) can control the operation of the compressor (10) and the fan (40) by changing or maintaining the command frequency of the compressor and the rotation speed of the fan based on the humidity value detected during the performance of the normal mode until the detected humidity value reaches the input humidity value.

The processor (150) can perform a power saving mode using an artificial intelligence (AI) function. The processor (150) can collect various data and information while performing a normal mode in order to perform a power saving mode using an artificial intelligence function.

If the processor (150) determines that the driving mode is the normal mode, it can check the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) and determine the checked input humidity value as the humidity value for learning.

More specifically, when a power off command is received, the processor (150) can check the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) between the time the power on command is received and the time the power off command is received, and determine the checked input humidity value as the input humidity value for learning.

When a power off command is received, the processor (150) checks the time between the time the power on command is received and the time the power off command is received, and if it is determined that the checked time is longer than the reference time, it is also possible to check the input humidity value received through the input interface (110).

When there are multiple input humidity values received through the input interface (110) between the time when the power-on command is received and the time when the power-off command is received, the processor (150) can determine the last received input humidity value as the input humidity value for learning.

When the time from when a power-on command is received to when a power-off command is received is referred to as one driving cycle, the processor (150) can determine the last input humidity value received among the input humidity values received during one driving cycle as the input humidity value for learning.

For example, if a first input humidity value is received at the time when a power-on command is received, a second input humidity value is received at the time when a first predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power-on command is received, and a third input humidity value is received at the time when a second predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power-on command is received, the processor (150) may determine only the third input humidity value among the first input humidity value, the second input humidity value, and the third input humidity value as the input humidity value for learning.

The processor (150) determines an input humidity value for learning each time a driving cycle ends and stores the recognized input humidity value.

The processor (150) obtains a preferred humidity value based on the stored input humidity value.

The processor (150) obtains a preferred humidity value based on input humidity values stored during multiple driving cycles.

For example, the processor (150) obtains an average value of a plurality of stored input humidity values and obtains a preferred humidity value based on the obtained average value.

As another example, the processor (150) may assign a first weight to an input humidity value determined in the last driving cycle among a plurality of driving cycles, assign a second weight to each of the remaining driving cycles, obtain an average value of the input humidity value to which the first weight is assigned and the input humidity values to which the second weight is assigned, and obtain a preferred humidity value based on the obtained average value.

Here, the first weight can be a larger weight than the second weight.

The last drive cycle may be the most recent drive cycle.

As another example, the processor (150) can check the times at which multiple driving cycles are performed, check the execution order of the multiple driving cycles based on the checked times, differentially assign weights to input humidity values based on the execution order of the multiple driving cycles checked, obtain an average value of the differentially weighted input humidity values, and obtain a preferred humidity value based on the obtained average value.

The processor (150) can assign a greater weight to the more recent the order in which the driving cycle was performed.

The processor (150) can obtain a preferred humidity value by rounding down the obtained average value to a preset unit. The preset unit can be 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10%.

Rounding down to a preset unit means processing the digits in the ones place as multiples of the preset unit.

For example, if the preset unit is 5%, the processor (150) can obtain a preferred humidity value of 35% by rounding down in units of 5% when the acquired average value is 38.5%, and can obtain a preferred humidity value of 40% by rounding down in units of 5% when the acquired average value is 40.5%. In this case, the preferred humidity values can be obtained as 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, and 60% in units of 5%.

The processor (150) can acquire a preferred humidity value and store the acquired preferred humidity value whenever the driving cycle changes.

The processor (150) may perform the power saving mode based on a preset initial preferred humidity value when the power saving mode is first performed. Here, the initial preferred humidity value may be 55%.

When the processor (150) determines that the driving mode is a power saving mode, it checks the preferred humidity value and sets the target humidity value based on the checked preferred humidity value.

The processor (150) can set different target humidity values depending on whether the acquired preferred humidity value is within the reference humidity range or whether the confirmed preferred humidity value is outside the reference humidity range.

If the processor (150) determines that the preferred humidity value is within the reference humidity range, it can set a target humidity value by adding a preset humidity value to the preferred humidity value, and if it determines that the preferred humidity value is outside the reference humidity range, it can set the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value.

If the processor (150) determines that the preferred humidity value is lower than the reference humidity value, it can set the target humidity value by adding the preset humidity value to the preferred humidity value, and if the preferred humidity value is higher than the reference humidity value, it can also set the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value.

An example of obtaining a preferred humidity value and setting a target humidity value is described with reference to Fig. 4.

Preferred humidity value = (((input humidity value of 1st round + input humidity value of 2nd round + input humidity value of 쪋+(n-1) round)/(n-1)) + input humidity value of nth round)/2, (rounded down to 5%, n is a natural number)

If the driving cycle is 10 times in total, the preferred humidity value = (((input humidity value of 1st cycle + input humidity value of 2nd cycle + 쪋 + input humidity value of 9th cycle)/9) + input humidity value of 10th cycle)/2, (rounded down to 5% units)

If the preferred humidity value is within the reference humidity range, the target humidity value = preferred humidity value + 5%

If the preferred humidity value is outside the reference humidity range, the target humidity value = preferred humidity value

When the processor (150) determines that the operating mode is a power saving mode, it checks the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), obtains a difference value between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value, checks the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the obtained difference value, sets the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked command frequency of the compressor and a preset ratio, and controls the operation of the compressor (10) based on the set operating frequency of the compressor.

The preset ratio here could be approximately 27%.

For example, if the compressor's commanded frequency is 47 Hz, the compressor's operating frequency may be 34 Hz, which is 27% of 47 Hz.

If the processor (150) determines that the operating mode is a power saving mode, it can control the operation of the fan (40) based on a preset rotation speed.

The processor (150) can also control the operation of the fan (40) based on the difference between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value when it is determined that the operating mode is a power saving mode.

The processor (150) can check the DR level received through the communication unit (140) and determine a ratio for adjusting the command frequency of the compressor based on the checked DR level.

The processor (150) can check a ratio corresponding to the DR level and set the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked ratio and the command frequency of the compressor.

The ratios corresponding to the DR levels may include a first ratio corresponding to a first DR level, a second ratio corresponding to a second DR level, and a third ratio corresponding to a third DR level.

For example, the first ratio may be 27%, the second ratio may be 45%, and the third ratio may be 63%, which may be information obtained and stored through testing.

If the DR level is the first DR level and the commanded frequency of the compressor is 47 Hz, the processor (150) can set the operating frequency of the compressor to 34 Hz, which is a 27% decrease from 47 Hz.

If the DR level is the second DR level and the commanded frequency of the compressor is 47 Hz, the processor (150) can set the operating frequency of the compressor to 25.85 Hz, which is a 45% decrease from 47 Hz.

If the DR level is the second DR level and the commanded frequency of the compressor is 47 Hz, the processor (150) can set the operating frequency of the compressor to 17.4 Hz, which is a 63% decrease from 47 Hz.

The processor (150) checks the command frequency of the compressor (10) corresponding to the difference between the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) and the target humidity value while performing the power saving mode, and controls dehumidification by changing the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked command frequency and the preset ratio, but can control dehumidification until the detected humidity value reaches the target humidity value.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the present embodiment can reduce power consumption by approximately 34% by operating the compressor by reducing the instruction frequency of the compressor in power-saving mode.

As shown in Fig. 6, when the power saving mode is performed and the command frequency of the compressor is reduced to perform dehumidification, the dehumidification capacity also decreases. However, this decrease is only at a level of approximately 18%, and the decrease in the dehumidification capacity is only minimal.

That is, the present embodiment can increase the power-saving efficiency while slightly reducing the dehumidifying capacity by reducing the command frequency of the compressor in power-saving mode.

When the processor (150) determines that the preferred humidity value is included in the reference humidity range, the processor (150) sets a target humidity value by adding a preset humidity value to the preferred humidity value, obtains a difference value between the set target humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), checks the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the obtained difference value, sets the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked command frequency of the compressor and the preset ratio, and controls the operation of the compressor based on the set operating frequency of the compressor.

When the processor (150) determines that the preferred humidity value is out of the reference humidity range, the processor sets the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value, obtains a difference value between the set target humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), checks the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the obtained difference value, sets the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked command frequency of the compressor and a preset ratio, and controls the operation of the compressor based on the set operating frequency of the compressor.

The reference humidity range is a range corresponding to comfort and can be between 40% relative humidity and 60% relative humidity.

The test results for the power saving effect according to the setting of the target humidity value are explained as follows with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

As shown in Fig. 7, when the preferred humidity value is 30% to 40%, the power saving rate when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the preferred humidity value is set to the target humidity value, and then the power saving mode is performed is performed, and the power saving rate when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the preferred humidity value is added to 10%, the target humidity value is set, and then the power saving mode is performed is performed, and is almost similar.

In addition, when the preferred humidity value is 60%, the power saving rate when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the preferred humidity value is set to the target humidity value, and then the power saving mode is performed is almost the same as the power saving rate when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the preferred humidity value is added to 10%, the target humidity value is set, and then the power saving mode is performed.

Power saving rate = ((power in normal mode - power in power saving mode) / power in normal mode) * 100%

However, when the preferred humidity value is 50%, it can be seen that there is a large difference in the power saving rate when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the preferred humidity value is set as the target humidity value, and then the power saving mode is performed, and when the compressor's command frequency is reduced, the target humidity value is set by adding 10% to the preferred humidity value, and then the power saving mode is performed. In other words, when the preferred humidity value is 50%, it can be seen that the power saving efficiency can be increased by setting the target humidity value by increasing the preferred humidity value when performing the power saving mode.

As shown in Fig. 8, when the indoor environment is a low-humidity environment, the power consumption when performing the normal mode is compared with the power consumption when performing the power-saving mode after reducing the compressor's command frequency and setting the target humidity value by adding 5% to the preferred humidity value, and then performing the power-saving mode. It can be seen that the power-saving rate can be improved by reducing the compressor's command frequency, setting the target humidity value by adding 5% to the preferred humidity value, and then performing the power-saving mode.

Additionally, it can be seen that the energy saving rate is improved more when the indoor area is large than when it is small.

The processor (150) can control the release of the power saving mode or the re-execution of the power saving mode based on the execution time of the power saving mode and the amount of humidity change during the execution of the power saving mode.

The processor (150) checks the first humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) at the time of starting the power saving mode while performing the power saving mode, counts the time from the time of starting the power saving mode, and if the counted time is the first time, checks the second humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130).

The point in time when the power-saving mode is started may be the point in time when the power-saving mode on command is received.

The processor (150) checks the third humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) if the counted time is the second time.

The first hour could be about 20 minutes, the second hour could be about 30 minutes.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the processor (150) obtains a difference value between the first humidity value (h1) and the second humidity value (h2), and if the obtained difference value (hc=h1-h2) is less than or equal to the first set value (s1) (hc<=s1) and the third humidity value (h3) is greater than or equal to the second set value (s2) (h3>=s2) (point b1), the power saving mode is released (point b2). Here, the first set value may be a relative humidity value of 5%, and the second set value may be a relative humidity value of 60%.

Here, the difference value (hc) between the first humidity value and the second humidity value means the change value of the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130).

The processor (150) obtains a difference value between a first humidity value (h1) and a second humidity value (h2), and if the obtained difference value (hc=h1-h2) is less than or equal to a first set value (s1) (hc<=s1), the processor checks the maintenance time for which the obtained difference value is maintained less than or equal to the first set value, and if the checked maintenance time is the third time, the power saving mode can be released.

The processor (150) can check the maintenance time for which the third humidity value (h3) is maintained at or above the second set value (s2) if the third humidity value (h3) is higher than or equal to the second set value (s2) (h3>=s2), and can release the power saving mode if the checked maintenance time is the fourth hour.

The processor (150) can check the time for which the detected humidity value is maintained as the target humidity value if the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is the target humidity value, and can release the power saving mode if the checked time is the fifth hour.

The 3rd, 4th and 5th hours may be the same or different.

The third, fourth and fifth hours can be approximately 30 minutes.

Wake up from sleep mode involves changing the driving mode to normal mode.

Deactivating the power saving mode includes acquiring a difference value between an input humidity value and a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor (130), checking an instruction frequency of the compressor corresponding to the acquired difference value, and controlling the operation of the compressor (10) based on the identified instruction frequency of the compressor.

The processor (150) performs normal mode after waking up from power saving mode.

The processor (150) checks the humidity value (hd) detected by the humidity sensor (130) while performing normal mode while the power saving mode is turned off, and if the detected humidity value is less than the third set value (s3) (hd<s3), the power saving mode is re-performed.

Here, the third setting value could be a relative humidity value of 55%.

The processor (150) checks the humidity value (hd) detected by the humidity sensor (130) while performing normal mode while the power saving mode is turned off, obtains a value (a = hi-s4) obtained by subtracting the fourth set value (s4) from the input humidity value (hi), and if the detected humidity value (hd) exceeds the subtracted value (a) (hd>a), the power saving mode is performed again.

Here, the fourth setting value can be a relative humidity value of approximately 5%.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the processor (150) checks the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) while performing normal mode while the power saving mode is released, and if the detected humidity value is less than the third set value (hd<s3) or the detected humidity value (hd) exceeds the value (a=hi-s4) obtained by subtracting the fourth set value (s4) from the input humidity value (hi) (hd>a), the power saving mode is performed again (point b3).

The processor (150) checks the time for which the detected humidity value (hd) exceeds the value (a=hi-s4) obtained by subtracting the fourth set value (s4) from the input humidity value (hi) (hd>a), and if the checked time is the sixth hour, the power saving mode can be re-executed.

Here, the 6th hour could be approximately 5 minutes.

Re-executing the power saving mode may include setting a target humidity value based on a preferred humidity value, obtaining a command frequency of the compressor based on a difference between the target humidity value and a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor, setting an operating frequency of the compressor based on a preset ratio with the command frequency of the compressor, and controlling operation of the compressor based on the set operating frequency of the compressor and the target humidity value.

Another example of setting the target humidity value configuration is described.

When the processor (150) determines that the operating mode is a power saving mode, it is possible to check the input humidity value received through the input interface (110), set a target humidity value based on the checked input humidity value, and control the operation of the compressor and fan based on the set target humidity value.

When a power off command is received, the processor (150) checks the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) between the time the power on command is received and the time the power off command is received, and stores the checked input humidity value.

When there are multiple input humidity values received through the input interface (110) between the time when the power-on command is received and the time when the power-off command is received, the processor (150) can store the input humidity values received before entering the power-saving mode.

The processor (150) can set a target humidity value depending on whether the input humidity value is within the reference humidity range or outside the reference humidity range.

If the processor (150) determines that the input humidity value is within the reference humidity range, it can set a target humidity value by adding a preset humidity value to the input humidity value, and if it determines that the input humidity value is outside the reference humidity range, it can set the acquired input humidity value as the target humidity value.

The memory (160) can store input humidity values for each driving cycle and store preferred humidity values for each driving cycle.

The memory (160) can store information about settings and times for deactivating and re-activating power-saving operation.

The setpoints can include the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th setpoints, and the time can include the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th hours.

The memory (160) can store information on the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference value between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, and can store information on the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference value between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value.

The memory (160) can store a preset ratio for reducing the command frequency of the compressor.

The memory (160) can also store a ratio for reducing the compressor's instruction frequency for each DR level. The higher the power price corresponding to the DR level, the higher the ratio can be.

The memory (160) can store information on a reference humidity value, a preset humidity value, and a reference humidity range for controlling the power saving mode.

The memory (160) and the processor (150) may be implemented as separate chips. Alternatively, the memory (160) and the processor (150) may be implemented as a single chip.

The function related to artificial intelligence according to the present disclosure is operated through a processor and a memory. The processor may be composed of one or more processors. In this case, one or more processors may be a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, an AP, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a graphics-only processor such as a GPU, a VPU (Vision Processing Unit), or an artificial intelligence-only processor such as an NPU.

One or more processors are controlled to process input data according to predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models stored in memory. Alternatively, if one or more processors are artificial intelligence-dedicated processors, the artificial intelligence-dedicated processors may be designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing a specific artificial intelligence model.

The predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models are characterized by being created through learning. Here, being created through learning means that the basic artificial intelligence model is learned by using a plurality of learning data by a learning algorithm, thereby creating a predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence model set to perform a desired characteristic (or purpose). Such learning may be performed in the device itself on which the artificial intelligence according to the present disclosure is performed, or may be performed through a separate server and/or system. Examples of the learning algorithm include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but are not limited to the examples described above.

The artificial intelligence model may be composed of a plurality of neural network layers. Each of the plurality of neural network layers has a plurality of weight values, and performs a neural network operation through an operation between the operation result of the previous layer and the plurality of weights. The plurality of weights of the plurality of neural network layers may be optimized by the learning result of the artificial intelligence model. For example, the plurality of weights may be updated so that a loss value or a cost value obtained from the artificial intelligence model is reduced or minimized during the learning process. The artificial neural network may include a deep neural network (DNN), and examples thereof include, but are not limited to, a convolutional neural network (CNN), a deep neural network (DNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), or a deep Q-network.

At least one component may be added or deleted in accordance with the performance of the components of the dehumidifier illustrated in Fig. 2. In addition, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the mutual positions of the components may be changed in accordance with the performance or structure of the dehumidifier.

Meanwhile, each component illustrated in FIG. 2 represents software and/or hardware components such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

Figure 10 is a control flow chart of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment.

The dehumidifier determines the operating mode based on user input received from the input interface (110).

The dehumidifier determines whether the operation mode selected by the user is the normal mode (201), and if it is determined that the operation mode is the normal mode, it checks the input humidity value received from the input interface (110).

If the dehumidifier determines that an input humidity value has not been received from the input interface (110) after a power-on command is received, the dehumidifier can check the operation information of the dehumidifier before the current power-on command is received and check the input humidity value when the normal mode is performed among the confirmed operation information of the dehumidifier.

If the dehumidifier determines that an input humidity value has not been received from the input interface (110) after the normal mode is selected, the dehumidifier can check the operation information of the dehumidifier before the normal mode is selected and check the input humidity value when the normal mode is performed among the confirmed operation information of the dehumidifier.

The dehumidifier can also check the operation mode and input humidity value based on the communication signal received through the communication unit (140).

The dehumidifier checks (202) the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) while performing the normal mode, and controls the operation of the compressor (10) and the fan (40) based on the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) and the checked input humidity value.

More specifically, when controlling the operation of the compressor (10), the dehumidifier determines whether the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, and if it determines that the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the confirmed input humidity value, it determines the difference value between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, determines the instruction frequency of the compressor corresponding to the determined difference value, and controls the operation of the compressor (10) based on the determined instruction frequency of the compressor (203).

Here, the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference value between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value may be information acquired through a test as information stored in advance.

The smaller the difference between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, the lower the compressor's command frequency can be.

When controlling the operation of the fan (40), the dehumidifier determines whether the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, and if it determines that the detected humidity value is greater than or equal to the input humidity value, it checks the difference between the detected humidity value and the input humidity value, checks the rotation speed of the fan corresponding to the checked difference value, and can control the operation of the fan (40) based on the checked rotation speed of the fan.

Here, the rotation speed of the fan corresponding to the difference between the detected humidity value and the confirmed input humidity value may be information acquired through a test as information stored in advance.

The dehumidifier can control the operation of the compressor (10) and the fan (40) by changing or maintaining the command frequency of the compressor and the rotation speed of the fan based on the humidity value detected during the performance of the normal mode until the detected humidity value reaches the input humidity value.

When the dehumidifier is in normal mode, it determines whether the detected humidity value is less than the input humidity value and, if it determines that the detected humidity value is less than the input humidity value, it stops the compressor (10) and the fan (40).

The dehumidifier can periodically check the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) during the stop control of the compressor (10) and fan (40).

The dehumidifier can control the operation of the compressor (10) and fan (40) again when the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) is higher than the input humidity value while the compressor (10) and fan (40) are stopped.

The dehumidifier can check the input humidity value received through the input interface (110) while performing normal mode, and determine the checked input humidity value as the humidity value for learning.

More specifically, when a power-off command is received while the dehumidifier is performing in the normal mode, the dehumidifier checks the time between the time the power-on command is received and the time the power-off command is received, and if it is determined that the checked time is longer than the reference time, the dehumidifier checks the input humidity values received through the input interface (110) between the time the power-on command is received and the time the power-off command is received, and checks the input humidity value received last among the checked input humidity values, and determines the checked input humidity value as the input humidity value for learning.

When the time from when a power-on command is received to when a power-off command is received is called one driving cycle, the dehumidifier can determine the last input humidity value received among the input humidity values received during one driving cycle as the input humidity value for learning.

The dehumidifier determines the input humidity value for learning at the end of each driving cycle and stores the determined input humidity value.

The dehumidifier learns the stored input humidity values and obtains the preferred humidity value.

The dehumidifier can assign a first weight to an input humidity value determined in a last driving cycle among a plurality of driving cycles, assign a second weight to the remaining driving cycles, obtain a first average value of the remaining input humidity values to which the second weights are assigned, obtain a second average value of the obtained first average value and the input humidity values to which the first weights are assigned, and obtain a preferred humidity value based on the obtained second average value.

The dehumidifier can obtain a preferred humidity value by rounding down the acquired second average value in preset units. For example, the dehumidifier can obtain a preferred humidity value by rounding down the acquired second average value in 5% units. That is, the preferred humidity values can be obtained as 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, and 60% in 5% units.

The dehumidifier can acquire a preferred humidity value and then store the acquired preferred humidity value each time an operating cycle is added (204).

When the dehumidifier determines that the operation mode is power saving mode, it checks the preferred humidity value (205) and sets the target humidity value based on the checked preferred humidity value.

More specifically, it is determined whether the confirmed preferred humidity value is greater than or equal to the reference humidity value, and if it is determined that the confirmed preferred humidity value is greater than or equal to the reference humidity value, the preferred humidity value is set as the target humidity value (207), and if it is determined that the preferred humidity value is less than the reference humidity value, the target humidity value is set based on the preferred humidity value and the preset humidity value (208). That is, if the dehumidifier determines that the preferred humidity value is less than the reference humidity value, it can set the target humidity value by adding the preset humidity value to the preferred humidity value.

When the dehumidifier is in power saving mode, it checks the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) and obtains the command frequency of the compressor based on the detected humidity value and the target humidity value (209).

More specifically, the dehumidifier can check the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), obtain a difference value between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value, and obtain an instruction frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference value obtained from information stored in the memory.

The dehumidifier can set the operating frequency of the compressor based on the confirmed instruction frequency of the compressor and the preset ratio (210) and control the operation of the compressor (10) based on the set operating frequency of the compressor (211).

That is, the dehumidifier can operate the compressor at an operating frequency that is reduced by a preset ratio from the command frequency of the confirmed compressor. Here, the preset ratio can be approximately 27%. For example, if the command frequency of the compressor is 47 Hz, the operating frequency of the compressor can be 34 Hz, which is reduced by 27% of 47 Hz.

The dehumidifier can control the operation of the fan (40) based on a preset rotation speed while in power-saving mode, and can also control the operation of the fan (40) based on the difference between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value.

The dehumidifier can operate the compressor by checking the instruction frequency of the compressor (10) corresponding to the difference between the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) and the target humidity value while performing the power-saving mode and changing the operating frequency of the compressor based on the checked instruction frequency and the preset ratio. The dehumidifier can perform dehumidification until the detected humidity value reaches the target humidity value.

As shown in Fig. 11a, when performing normal mode and power saving mode in an indoor space of 13 pyeong, it can be seen that the power saving rate is 39% when performing power saving mode compared to normal mode.

Power saving rate = ((power in normal mode - power in power saving mode) / power in normal mode) * 100%

As shown in FIG. 11b, FIG. 11c and FIG. 11d, it can be seen that there is a difference in the humidity value when performing the normal mode and the power consumption when performing the power-saving mode in an indoor space of 13 pyeong, and it can be seen that there is also a difference in the amount of power saved accordingly. However, it can be seen that the difference between the humidity value when performing the normal mode and the humidity value when performing the power-saving mode is minimal.

As shown in Fig. 12a, when performing normal mode and power saving mode in an indoor space of 8 pyeong, it can be seen that the power saving rate is 51% when performing power saving mode compared to normal mode.

As shown in FIG. 12b, FIG. 12c and FIG. 12d, it can be seen that there is a difference in the humidity value when performing the normal mode and the power consumption when performing the power-saving mode in an indoor space of 8 pyeong, and it can be seen that there is also a difference in the amount of power saved accordingly. However, it can be seen that the difference between the humidity value when performing the normal mode and the humidity value when performing the power-saving mode is minimal.

This embodiment can increase power saving efficiency while slightly reducing the dehumidifying ability in power saving mode.

The dehumidifier can control the release from the power-saving mode or the re-entry into the power-saving mode based on the duration of the power-saving mode and the amount of humidity change during the power-saving mode.

The dehumidifier can determine whether the dehumidification state satisfies the dehumidification mode release conditions while performing the power-saving mode (212).

Conditions for releasing the power-saving mode may include a condition in which a detected humidity change value at a point in time when a first hour has elapsed from the time when the power-saving mode is started is less than or equal to a first set value, and a condition in which a detected humidity value at a point in time when a second hour has elapsed from the time when the power-saving mode is started is greater than or equal to a second set value.

More specifically, the dehumidifier checks the first humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130) at the time of starting the power saving mode, counts the time from the time of starting the power saving mode, and if the counted time is the first hour, checks the second humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), and if the counted time is the second hour, checks the third humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130).

The dehumidifier obtains the difference value between the first humidity value (h1) and the second humidity value (h2), and if the obtained difference value (hc=h1-h2) is less than or equal to the first set value (s1) (hc<=s1) and the third humidity value (h3) is greater than or equal to the second set value (s2) (h3>=s2) (point b1), it determines that the deactivation condition of the power-saving mode is satisfied.

If the dehumidifier determines that the deactivation conditions of the power-saving mode are not satisfied, it maintains the power-saving mode (213), and if it determines that the deactivation conditions of the power-saving mode are satisfied, it deactivates the power-saving mode (214).

Maintaining the power saving mode includes periodically checking the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor while performing the power saving mode, checking the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the difference between the detected humidity value and the target humidity value, and operating the compressor by reducing the checked command frequency of the compressor by a preset ratio.

Waking up from sleep mode involves performing normal mode.

Performing the normal mode in response to the release of the power saving mode includes obtaining a difference value between the input humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor (130), checking the command frequency of the compressor corresponding to the obtained difference value, and controlling the operation of the compressor (10) based on the checked command frequency of the compressor.

The dehumidifier determines whether the dehumidification state satisfies the conditions for re-execution of the power-saving mode while the dehumidifier is in normal mode with the power-saving mode disabled (215).

Conditions for re-execution of the power saving mode may include a condition in which the humidity value (hd) detected by the humidity sensor (130) is less than the third set value (s3) (hd<s3) and a condition in which the detected humidity value (hd) exceeds the value obtained by subtracting the fourth set value (s4) from the input humidity value (hi) (hd>a).

The dehumidifier checks the humidity value (hd) detected by the humidity sensor (130) while performing normal mode with the power saving mode disabled, and if the detected humidity value is less than the third set value (s3) (hd<s3), the power saving mode is performed again.

The dehumidifier checks the humidity value (hd) detected by the humidity sensor (130) while performing normal mode with the power saving mode disabled, obtains a value (a = hi-s4) obtained by subtracting the fourth set value (s4) from the input humidity value (hi), and if the detected humidity value (hd) exceeds the subtracted value (a) (hd>a), the power saving mode is performed again.

Re-executing the power saving mode may include setting a target humidity value based on a preferred humidity value, obtaining a command frequency of the compressor based on a difference between the target humidity value and a humidity value detected by a humidity sensor, setting an operating frequency of the compressor based on a preset ratio with the command frequency of the compressor, and controlling operation of the compressor based on the set operating frequency of the compressor and the target humidity value.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical idea or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims (15)

compressor; an input interface for receiving user input; and A dehumidifier comprising a processor for reducing the command frequency of the compressor at a preset rate in response to a power saving mode received through the input interface. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a humidity sensor for detecting humidity, A dehumidifier in which the processor sets a target humidity value based on an input humidity value received through the input interface, and determines an instruction frequency of the compressor based on the target humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor. In the second paragraph, the processor, In normal mode, the input humidity value is obtained through the above input interface, By learning the input humidity value obtained above, the preferred humidity value is obtained, A dehumidifier that sets the target humidity value based on the preferred humidity value obtained above. In the third paragraph, the processor, When a power off command is received through the input interface in normal mode, the input humidity value of the current driving cycle received through the input interface before the power off command is received is acquired, Obtain a first average value of input humidity values of pre-stored driving cycles and obtain a second average value between the first average value and the input humidity value of the confirmed current driving cycle, A dehumidifier that obtains the second average value obtained above as the preferred humidity value, and obtains the preferred humidity value by rounding down the unit of work of the second average value to a preset unit. In the third paragraph, the processor, If the above preferred humidity value is within the standard humidity range, the target humidity value is set by adding the above preferred humidity value and the preset humidity value. A dehumidifier that sets the preferred humidity value to the target humidity value when the preferred humidity value is out of the reference humidity range. In the second paragraph, the processor, A dehumidifier that releases the power-saving mode and controls the operation of the compressor at the determined compressor instruction frequency when the power-saving mode is released, if the change in the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is equal to or lower than a first preset setting value after a first period of time has elapsed from the time of starting operation in the power-saving mode, and if the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is equal to or higher than a second preset setting value after a second period of time different from the first period of time has elapsed from the time of starting operation in the power-saving mode. In the sixth paragraph, the processor, A dehumidifier that re-executes the power saving mode when the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is lower than a preset third set value in response to the release of the power saving mode, or when the detected humidity value exceeds a value obtained by subtracting a preset fourth set value from the input humidity value. In paragraph 1, A first heat exchanger connected to the above compressor; a second heat exchanger connected to the first heat exchanger; and Further comprising a fan for moving the air heat-exchanged in the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, The above compressor, first heat exchanger, second heat exchanger and fan are provided integrally inside the housing, A dehumidifier in which the air path of the first heat exchanger, the air path of the second heat exchanger, and the air path of the fan are the same. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a communication unit for receiving power prices, The above processor is a dehumidifier that reduces the preset ratio further as the received power price increases. In Article 9, Including more displays, A dehumidifier in which the processor controls the display to display a level of the power saving mode corresponding to the received power price in the power saving mode. A method for controlling a dehumidifier including a compressor, Set the target humidity value based on the input humidity value received through the input interface during the execution of the power saving mode, The command frequency of the compressor is determined based on the target humidity value and the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor, A control method for a dehumidifier, which controls the operation of the compressor by reducing the command frequency of the compressor determined above at a preset rate. In the 11th paragraph, setting the target humidity value comprises: Obtain the input humidity value received at the input interface during execution of the normal mode, By learning the input humidity value confirmed above, the preferred humidity value is obtained, A control method for a dehumidifier, comprising setting the target humidity value based on the obtained preferred humidity value. In the 12th paragraph, obtaining the preferred humidity value comprises: When a power off command is received through the input interface during the execution of the above general mode, the input humidity value received through the input interface before the power off command is received is acquired, Obtain the first average value of the input humidity values of the driving cycles stored in the memory, Obtain a second average value between the first average value obtained above and the input humidity value obtained above, Including obtaining the preferred humidity value by rounding down the unit of work of the second average value obtained above to a preset unit, A method for controlling a dehumidifier, wherein setting the target humidity value comprises setting the target humidity value based on the preferred humidity value and a preset humidity value if the preferred humidity value is lower than the reference humidity value, and setting the preferred humidity value as the target humidity value if the preferred humidity value is higher than the reference humidity value. In Article 11, If the change in the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is less than or equal to the first preset value after a first period of time has elapsed from the time the power saving mode is started, and if the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is greater than or equal to the second preset value after a second period of time has elapsed from the time the power saving mode is started, the power saving mode is released. In response to the release of the above power saving mode, the operation of the compressor is controlled at the determined compressor instruction frequency, A control method for a dehumidifier further comprising re-executing the power saving mode when the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is less than a preset third set value in response to the release of the power saving mode, or when the detected humidity value exceeds a value obtained by subtracting a preset fourth set value from the input humidity value. In Article 11, Receive electricity prices through the Ministry of Communications, Check the preset rate corresponding to the above received power price, Reduce the command frequency of the compressor based on the preset ratio confirmed above, A control method for a dehumidifier, wherein the preset ratio corresponding to the received power price is higher the higher the received power price is.

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