ES2675304T3 - Electronic temperature control device and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic temperature control apparatus comprising: a thermoelectric module (100) that includes a first metallic element (110), which has an end to be in contact with an object and a second metallic element (120), which has an end joined with the other end of the first metallic element (110); a voltage supply unit (200) for supplying a first voltage (V1) or a variable voltage having a range from a second voltage (V2) to a third voltage (V3) to the thermoelectric module (100), the voltage being applied to one end connected to the other end of the first metallic element (110); and a controller (300) configured to control a voltage that is supplied to the thermoelectric module (100) by the voltage supply unit (200) in accordance with a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and a target temperature; wherein when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, the controller (300) is configured to control the voltage supply unit (200) to provide the first voltage to the thermoelectric module (100) until the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) reaches the target temperature, where the first voltage (V1) is a fixed voltage, characterized in that when the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) has reached the target temperature, the controller (300) is configured to control the voltage supply unit (200) to supply the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100), where the first voltage (V1) is higher than the second voltage (V2).

Description

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DESCRIPTION

ELECTRONIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL DEVICE AND TECHNICAL FIELD CONTROL METHOD

The present invention relates to an electronic temperature control apparatus for controlling the temperature of an object using a thermoelectric module and a method of controlling it.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A thermoelectric effect refers to the conversion of energy between heat and electricity, in particular, a phenomenon in which the carriers within a device move to generate electromotive force when there is a temperature difference between both ends of a conversion device.

The investigation of the thermoelectric phenomenon began in the early 1900s and advanced sufficiently to allow the loffe Institute of the former Soviet Union to obtain a conversion efficiency of approximately 4% and, at present, the conversion efficiency It stands at approximately 10%. The thermoelectricity can be divided into the Seebeck effect, in which the electromotive force is obtained using temperature differences between two parts, the Peltier effect in which cooling and heating are carried out with electromotive force and the Thomson effect in which the Electromotive force is caused by a temperature difference of a conductive cable or conductive band, and a core technology in terms of a field of materials or a system technology for a manufacturing process has come to the forefront.

Thermoelectric materials can be divided into a material at room temperature, a medium temperature material and a high temperature material, in accordance with temperature ranges based on thermoelectric characteristics. A solid solution alloy based on BizTer having a composition of (Bi, Te) 2 Te3 and Biz (Te, Se) 3, has excellent thermoelectric characteristics. A thermoelectric refrigeration and generation module, which uses said thermoelectric materials, has a structure in which the n-type thermoelectric devices and the p-type thermoelectric devices are electrically connected in series, and thermally connected in parallel.

In a thermoelectric module, when heat is transferred from a high temperature part to a low temperature part due to a temperature difference between them, electrons and holes are transferred from the high temperature part to the low temperature part in a thermoelectric device of type n and a thermoelectric device of type p, respectively, generating electricity, and in the thermoelectric module, when an electric current is flowing, cooling occurs on one side thereof, while heating occurs on the other , due to a displacement of the carrier, thus allowing cooling and heating.

The efficiency of a thermoelectric module is determined by thermoelectric characteristics such as thermo-electromotive force, thermal conductivity or resistivity of thermoelectric materials of type n and type p, and a number of coupled thermoelectric devices.

In addition, a cooling scheme using a thermoelectric module has a high sensitivity of thermal response, allows selective local cooling, and has a simple structure without moving parts, and therefore has been marketed for partial cooling of electronic components such as a high output power transistor, a laser diode and the like, and can also be used for general purposes, such as for an ice box for vehicles, for domestic refrigerators and air conditioners, and the like.

In addition, as the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in vehicles, air conditioners and domestic refrigerators, and the like has been regulated, the development of air conditioning systems using thermoelectric materials, which can be used for cooling without the use of a refrigerant, has become a promising field.

A thermoelectric module uses the fact that heat is transferred from a low temperature zone to a high temperature zone due to the Peltier effect, when a current flows to a circuit that includes a junction between different materials. Based on this concept, a thermoelectric cooler can be obtained by connecting a plurality of series connections.

US 5371665 discloses a voltage supply unit (32) that provides DC voltage DC. to an energy control circuit (50). Figure 3 of this document shows a variable voltage. The variable voltage is generated by a pulse positioning circuit (92), and is not generated by the power supply unit (32). In addition, the variable voltage is provided, at the output, to a high current current transistor (80), through a comparator (90) in order to control the PWM signal. This document does not suggest the supply to a thermoelectric module of:

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• a constant voltage, when the difference between an object temperature, or a first metallic element, and an objective temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset, and

• a variable voltage, when the temperature of the object, or the first metallic element, has reached the target temperature.

US20080022696 discloses an electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with the preamble of claim 1, and a method of an electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with the preamble of claim 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

An aspect of the present invention discloses an electronic temperature control apparatus for controlling the temperature of an object using a thermoelectric module and a method of controlling it.

SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1 is disclosed.

When the difference between an object temperature, or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, the controller is configured to control the voltage supply unit, so that the first voltage is provided to the thermoelectric module, and when the difference between an object temperature, or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, the controller can be configured to control the voltage supply unit to supply the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module

When the difference between an object temperature, or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is within a preset range, the controller may be configured to adjust the voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module, in proportion to the difference between the target temperature and the temperature of the object or the first metallic element.

The controller can be configured to compare the target temperature with the temperature of the object, or the first metallic element, and if the maximum values of the temperatures are reversed, the controller can be configured to change a connection state between one end of the first element metallic and the other end of the second metallic element, in order to reverse the maximum potential values of one end of the first metallic element and the other end of the second metallic element.

When the controller can be configured to compare, in addition, the temperature of the second metallic element, or an ambient temperature, with the target temperature, and the voltage supply unit provides the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module, the controller can be configured to correct the magnitude of the variable voltage supplied.

When the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, the controller is configured to control the voltage supply unit, to supply the first voltage to the thermoelectric module When the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, the controller can be configured to control the voltage supply unit in order to supply the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module , and when the difference between the temperature of the second metallic element or the ambient temperature, and the target temperature exceeds a second preset value, the controller can be configured to reduce the preset range.

The electronic temperature control apparatus may also include a fan arranged on the other side of the second metal element of the thermoelectric module.

When the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element, and the target temperature is outside the preset range, the controller can be configured to rotate the fan at a first speed, and when the difference between an object or temperature First metallic element, and the target temperature are within a preset range, the controller may be configured to rotate the fan at a second speed, where the first speed may be faster than the second speed.

The controller may be configured to detect a voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module, by the voltage supply unit, and to control, by feedback, the voltage supplied by the voltage supply unit to the thermoelectric module.

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In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a control method according to claim 10 is disclosed.

ADVANTAGE EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

As stated previously, in the case of the electronic temperature control apparatus and the method of control thereof, in accordance with the embodiments of the invention, the temperature of an object can be controlled by controlling the thermoelectric module at a low power level and with low noise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a view illustrating a temperature control method of a refrigerator or general heater;

Figure 2 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and the voltage supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage that is supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage that is supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 7 and 8 are flow charts illustrating a control method of an electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, respectively;

Figures 9 to 11 are detailed flow charts illustrating a process for determining a voltage mode, in the control method of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, respectively;

Figure 12 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a voltage supply unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Y

Figure 13 is a timing diagram illustrating an operation of the voltage supply unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR PRACTICE OF THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily practice them.

In order to clarify the present invention, non-important parts of the description will be omitted, and similar reference numbers are used for similar parts throughout the specification.

Unless explicitly described otherwise, the term "comprises" and variations such as "comprise" or "comprising" should be understood to imply the inclusion of indicated elements, but not the exclusion of any other element.

Figure 1 is a view illustrating a temperature control method of a refrigerator or general heater.

A refrigerator or general heater includes a cooling unit and a heating unit, and upon receipt of energy, the cooling unit and the heating unit absorb ambient heat or radiate heat. In this case, the degree of cooling or heating is, in the long run, proportional to the energy supplied to the cooling unit or the heating unit. Therefore, the temperature control of a refrigerator or general heater can be achieved by controlling the magnitude of a voltage or current supplied to a refrigeration unit or a heating unit.

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Referring to Figure 1 (a), in order to control the temperature, a voltage can be applied to a refrigeration unit or a heating unit in a pulse width modulation (PWM) manner.

Referring to Figure 1 (b), it can be seen that a voltage is applied to a refrigeration unit or a heating unit, in a phase control mode and, referring to Figure 1 (c), it can be see that a voltage is applied to a refrigeration unit or a heating unit in a zero crossing mode.

The schemes illustrated in Figures 1 (b) and 1 (c) are used when AC power is used c.a., and Figure 1 (a) is used when DC power is used c.c. In all the control methods illustrated in Figure 1, the temperature is controlled by adjusting a duration in which a voltage is applied.

In the case of setting a voltage application time duration, a switching is required to apply, discontinuously, a voltage. However, a considerable switching loss can happen in a switching operation, thereby wasting energy. In addition, a large potential amount of switching loss can cause a considerable load for a voltage application circuit, causing damage to the circuit.

However, in many cases, a heating unit or a cooling unit generally requires a remarkably high level of energy, and a voltage or current supplied is required to have a small amount of undulations. For this reason, the equipment, such as a switching power supply (SMPS), or the like, which provides, in a stable manner, high energy, is used in temperature control devices.

However, in general, the SMPS provides a constant voltage (i.e. a regular, uniform fixed voltage) in order to provide high energy in a stable manner, and a SMPS that emits a variable voltage can be considerably costly. Therefore, a method for controlling the degree of heating or cooling, of a heating unit or a cooling unit, employs a scheme to control a connection between an SMPS and a heating unit or a cooling unit. That is, in numerous cases, the degree of heating or cooling of a heating unit or a cooling unit is controlled by the use of the PWM control.

However, as mentioned earlier, the use of a PWM control leads to a large amount of loss, based on a switching operation, which drastically degrades the energy-saving capacity that is weighted with small appliances, and the like

Therefore, an electronic temperature control apparatus, a cooler that uses it, a heater that uses it, and a method of controlling it in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention, save energy by varying an application voltage in accordance with a temperature section in order to reduce a switching loss.

Figure 2 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 2, an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, may include a thermoelectric module 100, a voltage supply unit 200 and a controller 300. The electronic apparatus of Temperature control, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, may further include a fan 400 as necessary.

The thermoelectric module 100 includes a first metallic element 110, and a second metallic element 120. The first metallic element 110 and the second metallic element 120 are connected so that a current can flow between them and heat can be transferred between them. In this case, it is considered that the other end of the first metallic element 110, and one end of the second metallic element 120, are joined. One end of the first metallic element 110 is in contact with an object that requires temperature control (or whose temperature is required to be controlled). When a voltage is applied between one end of the first metallic element 110 and the other end of the second metallic element 120, a current flows between the first metallic element 110 and the second metallic element 120 and heat transmission can occur. Here, a first terminal and a second terminal can be installed at one end of the first metallic element 110 and the other end of the second metallic element 120, respectively. In the thermoelectric module 100, a heat transmission direction can be determined in accordance with a sign of a voltage applied between one end of the first metallic element 110 and the other end of the second metallic element 120. That is, the direction of transmission of heat can be determined in accordance with a height of a potential of one end of the first metallic element 110 and the other end of the second metallic element 120.

The voltage supply unit 200 can supply a first voltage (V1) or a voltage within a range from a second voltage (V2) to a third voltage (V3). That is, the voltage supply unit 200 can supply the first voltage (V1) as a constant voltage, or it can supply a variable voltage having a range from the second voltage (V2) to the third voltage (V3). In this case, the third tension

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(V3) has a smaller value than the second voltage (V2), and the first voltage (V1) is higher than the second voltage (V1), a maximum variable value of a variable voltage. That is, the voltage supply unit 200 can supply a high voltage as a constant voltage, and a low voltage as a variable voltage. When it is considered difficult to design the voltage supply unit 200 and the unit manufacturing costs of the voltage supply unit 200 increase as a variable voltage range and a voltage band of the variable voltage are higher Preferably, a high voltage is supplied as a constant voltage and a low voltage is supplied as a variable voltage.

The controller 300 is configured to control a voltage supplied from the voltage supply unit 200 to the thermoelectric module 100, in accordance with a difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110, and a target temperature. That is, in accordance with an object temperature as a target for temperature control, the controller 300 is configured to control the object temperature by varying a supply voltage from the voltage supply unit 200. In this case, if it is difficult to directly measure the temperature of the object, the controller 300 is configured to control the temperature of the first metallic element 110, equilibrated in temperature with the object, by varying a supply voltage from the supply unit of tension 200, in accordance with the temperature of the first metallic element 110.

In particular, an aspect of an output voltage from the voltage supply unit 200 may vary depending on whether a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110, and the target temperature exceeds, or not, a preset value, and when the voltage supply unit 200 provides a variable voltage, the controller 300 can adjust the magnitude (or amplitude) of the voltage in accordance with a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature.

In addition, the controller 300 may be configured to control a voltage that is provided by the voltage supply unit 200 to the thermoelectric module 100, further comparing a temperature of the second metallic element 120 or an ambient temperature around the second metallic element 120 with target temperature

That is, the controller 300 can be configured to control an operation of the thermoelectric module 100, additionally reflecting the temperature of the second metallic element 120 that radiates heat transmitted from the object, or absorbs heat to be transmitted to the object, and the temperature of a peripheral part of the second metallic element 120.

In addition, the controller 300 may be configured to control a rotation speed of the fan 400, disposed at the other end of the second metallic element 120, in accordance with the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110, and the target temperature . The foregoing is due to the fact that the circulation speed of the ambient air around the second metallic element 120 differs depending on a rotation speed of the fan 400.

Next, a process for carrying out the control of a temperature of the object by the controller 300 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, controlling a voltage provided from the power supply unit voltage 200 to the thermoelectric module 100. However, only the object temperature will be described, but it can also be applied to the temperature control scheme of the first metallic element 110.

Figure 3 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage that is supplied to the thermoelectric module of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 3, a relationship between the temperature of an object and a supply voltage, in the cooling embodiment, can be checked using the electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

When a temperature of the object is greater than the target temperature Ts, a voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 can be controlled in accordance with the temperature of the target, and be supplied. When the temperature of the object is lower than the target temperature Ts, the voltage supply to the thermoelectric module 100 is interrupted in order to save energy and reduce noise.

Referring to Figure 3, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, in the case (a) in which a difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts is equal or greater than a first preset value AT, a first voltage V1, as a constant voltage, is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100, and in cases (b, c, d) where the difference is less than the first preset value T , a variable voltage, ranging from a third voltage V3 to a second voltage V2, is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 so that the object is cooled.

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Referring to section b, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts is less than the first preset value AT, The magnitude of the voltage can be adjusted in proportion to the difference between the temperature of the object and the target temperature Ts and supplied to the thermoelectric module 100.

With reference to section c, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts reaches the target temperature Ts, the electronic device of temperature control is not operational until the object temperature is changed by a certain value from the target temperature Ts, and when the object temperature is changed to a certain value, the electronic temperature control apparatus can apply a voltage on proportion to a difference between the temperature of the object and the target temperature Ts. The foregoing serves to reduce the loss of energy and the generation of noise due to a frequency operation of the voltage supply unit 200.

Referring to section d, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when the temperature of the object is different from the target temperature Ts, a voltage is applied in proportion to the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts, and when the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts is equal to or greater than the first preset value AT, the first voltage V1, as a constant voltage, can be supplied to the 100 thermoelectric module.

In this case, the first preset value AT may be a temperature by which the object temperature can reach the target temperature Ts within a certain period of time when the second voltage V2 is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100. That is, the first Preset value AT can be set taking into account the second voltage V2 and the heat transfer capacity of the thermoelectric module 100.

Although not illustrated, the controller 300 may be configured to detect a voltage that is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 from the voltage supply unit 200, to control by feedback the voltage supplied by the voltage supply unit 200 to the thermoelectric module 100 That is, although a signal is sent to control a voltage output from the voltage supply unit 200, the voltage provided from the voltage supply unit 200, to the thermoelectric module 100, may vary due to various factors, of so that the controller 300 can apply a predicted voltage to the thermoelectric module 100 through the feedback control.

When the above control methods are combined, the controller 300 can analyze the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts, in order to determine whether to rapidly cool the object by supplying a constant high voltage, or whether to slowly cool the object supplying a variable voltage that has a low voltage band. In addition, in the case of supplying a variable voltage, the magnitude of the variable voltage can be established using the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts.

Figure 4 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage that is provided to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 4, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with the present embodiment, in the case (a) in which a difference between the temperature of an object and an objective temperature Ts is equal or greater than a first preset value AT, a first voltage V1 can be applied as a constant voltage to the thermoelectric module 100, and when the temperature of the object reaches the target temperature Ts, a variable voltage having a range from a third voltage V3 to a second voltage V2, can be provided to the thermoelectric module 100, to cool the object. That is, the constant voltage can be continuously supplied to the object until the temperature of the object reaches the target voltage Ts in order to rapidly cool the object, and when the temperature of the object reaches the target temperature Ts, the variable voltage is Can supply to maintain a cooling state.

Referring to a section b, since the temperature of the object is within the range of the target temperature Ts, and the first preset value At, the variable voltage can be supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 to maintain the temperature of the object within the range of the first preset value AT. In this case, the magnitude of the variable voltage can be adjusted to be proportional to the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts in order to be supplied to the thermoelectric module 100.

As discussed above, the first preset value AT may be a temperature by which the object temperature may be able to reach the target temperature Ts within a certain period of time when the second voltage V2 is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 That is, the first preset value AT can be set taking into account the second voltage V2 and the capacity of

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heat transmission of the thermoelectric module 100.

When the above control methods are combined, the controller 300 can analyze the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts and a cooling record (or cooling history), in order to determine whether to rapidly cool the object by supply a constant high voltage, or if the object is slowly cooled by providing a variable voltage having a low voltage band, and the magnitude of the variable voltage can be established using the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts.

Figure 5 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 5, a relationship between the temperature of an object and a supply voltage in the cooling embodiment can be checked by using the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention . As for a voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when a temperature of the object is greater than an objective temperature Ts, a constant voltage is supplied, and when the temperature of the object is lower than the target temperature Ts, a variable voltage can be supplied. Furthermore, as regards the voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module 100 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, after the object temperature reaches the target temperature Ts, if the object temperature increases to be greater than the target temperature Ts by a first preset value AT or higher, the constant voltage is supplied again.

That is, when the temperature of the object is greater than the target temperature Ts, the constant voltage V1 as a high voltage is supplied for rapid cooling. When the object temperature reaches the target temperature Ts, the second voltage V2 is supplied to maintain the cooling state. When the object temperature is lower than the target temperature Ts, a variable voltage can be supplied that has a range from the third voltage V3 to the second voltage V2, in order to prevent overcooling. In this case, the magnitude of the variable voltage can be selected in proportion to a difference between the temperature of the object and the target temperature Ts. When the temperature of the object is increased to be higher in the first preset value AT than the target temperature Ts, it can be determined that the cooling state cannot be maintained by providing only the second voltage V2, and the constant voltage is supplied V1, again.

Figure 6 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a temperature of an object and a voltage supplied to a thermoelectric module of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 6, a relationship between the temperature of an object and a supply voltage in the heating embodiment can be checked by using the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention . When a temperature of an object is lower than the target temperature Ts, a voltage provided to the thermoelectric module 100 can be controlled in relation to the temperature of the object. On the contrary, when the temperature of the object is higher than the target temperature Ts, a voltage is not applied to it, in order to save energy and reduce noise.

Referring to Figure 6, in the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, when a difference between an object temperature and the target temperature Ts is equal to or greater than a first preset value AT, the first voltage V1, as a constant, can be supplied to the thermoelectric module 100, and when the object temperature reaches the target temperature Ts, a variable voltage is supplied having a range from a third voltage V3 to a second voltage V2 to the thermoelectric module 100, so that the object is heated. That is, the constant voltage is supplied, continuously, until the object temperature reaches the target voltage Ts to rapidly heat the object, and when the object temperature reaches the target temperature Ts, the variable voltage is supplied to maintain a warm state. .

When the above control methods are combined, the controller 300 can be configured to analyze the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts and a heating record (or heating history), in order to determine if it heats up quickly. the object providing a constant high voltage or if the object is slowly heated by supplying a variable voltage having a low voltage band, and the magnitude of the variable voltage can be derived using the difference between the object temperature and the target temperature Ts.

In accordance with the heating and cooling method as described above, providing the constant high voltage, and the tension having a variable band having a relatively low maximum value in accordance with the temperature of the object or the temperature of the first metallic element 110 , can be promoted

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Energy saving while increasing the temperature control speed.

In the case of the related technique, since the switching operation is carried out in the vicinity of a target temperature to maintain a temperature, a great loss of switching can occur due to frequent voltage application and voltage interruption, and in In particular, during said switching operation, a large amount of heat can be generated from the voltage supply unit 200, which implies a fire hazard.

However, in the present embodiment, as described above, after heating or cooling is performed to a target temperature with a constant voltage, the target temperature is controlled for maintenance with a variable voltage. Therefore, since a switching operation is not carried out, a loss of power due to a switching operation and a risk of a fire start due to heating can be significantly reduced.

In addition, unlike the cases illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, when it is controlled that the temperature of the object is maintained within a preset range above and below the target temperature, both cooling and heating must be performed in the object. In detail, since the direction of heat transfer is determined by a potential difference between both ends of the thermoelectric module 100, the cooling and heating can be exchanged by changing a connection of a positive (+) and a negative (-) pole. of the voltage supply unit 200, which is connected to one end of the first metallic element 110 and to the other end of the second metallic element 120.

The respective embodiments of the cooling method can be applied to a heating method by modifying the design.

Furthermore, although it is not illustrated, when a temperature of the second metallic element 120, or an air temperature in contact with the other end of the second metallic element 120, causes an important difference with respect to the target temperature, a control capability is required. high temperature Therefore, in this case, it is required to correct a voltage value that is provided from the voltage supply unit 200 to the thermoelectric module 100 in the electronic temperature control apparatus. That is, the value of the supply voltage can be raised by a certain amount or rate, or the section in which the constant high voltage is applied can be raised.

In order to increase the section in which the constant voltage is applied, the first preset value can be reduced. In other words, when the difference between the temperature of the second metallic element 120, or the ambient temperature, and the target temperature exceeds a second preset voltage, the first preset value can be reduced.

In addition, when the difference between the temperature of the second metallic element 120, or the ambient temperature, and the target temperature is small, the first preset value can be increased.

Next, a control method of the electronic temperature control apparatus using the above temperature control scheme will be described.

Figures 7 and 8 are flow charts illustrating a control method of an electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, respectively.

The electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, can include the thermoelectric module 100, and the control method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can be performed by adjusting an applied voltage to thermoelectric module 100.

Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the control method of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, includes a temperature adjustment operation 10, a temperature detection operation 20, a voltage mode determination operation 30 and a voltage selection operation 40.

In the temperature setting operation 10, a previously memorized temperature, or inlet temperature, is set as a target temperature. That is, a preset target temperature or a target temperature desired by the user is set.

In the temperature detection operation 20, a temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 can be detected. The temperature detection can be implemented using a temperature sensor.

In the operation of determining the voltage mode 30, the fact whether a first voltage is supplied to the thermoelectric module 100, or if a variable voltage is supplied having a range from a second voltage

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at a third voltage, the thermoelectric module 100 is determined by the use of a difference between the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature. The first voltage is higher than the second voltage and has a constant voltage value. When a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, the constant high voltage is applied in order to adjust the temperature of the object to the target temperature at a speed fast, and when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, a variable voltage is applied to maintain the temperature of the object at the target temperature without causing a loss of switching .

In the voltage selection operation 40, when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110, and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, a variable voltage value that can be applied to the thermoelectric module 100 is You can select within a range from the second voltage to the third voltage, using the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature.

Figures 9 to 11 are detailed flow charts illustrating a process for determining a voltage mode in the control method of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, respectively.

Referring to Figure 9, in a voltage mode determination operation 30, of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a voltage mode can be determined as a function of whether difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and a target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, or it is not.

In detail, the voltage mode determination operation 30 may include a determination operation 31 in order to determine whether the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first value preset, or it is not; a constant voltage mode operation 33 providing a first voltage as a constant voltage, when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value, and an operation variable voltage mode 35 for setting any voltage within a range from the second voltage to the third voltage, and apply the same, when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is less than the first preset.

In accordance with the operation of determining the voltage mode 30 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in Figure 7, the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 can be Quickly adjust to the target temperature and be within the first preset value.

Referring to Figure 9, in the operation of determining the voltage mode 30 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a voltage mode can be determined as a function of whether the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value or depending on a current voltage mode.

In detail, the voltage mode determination operation 30 includes a determination operation 31 to determine whether the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value, or not that is, a constant voltage mode operation 33 of emitting a first voltage as a constant voltage until such time as the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 reaches the target temperature, when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value, an operation 34 to determine whether the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 has reached the target temperature or not, and a variable voltage mode operation 35 of setting any voltage within a range from the second voltage to the third voltage and applied n thereof, when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is less than the first preset value. In accordance with the operation 30 of voltage mode determination of the electronic temperature control apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the object or of the first metal element 110 is quickly adjusted to the target temperature and is within the first preset value.

In accordance with the operation of determining the voltage mode 30 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, which is illustrated in Figure 9, the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 Quickly adjusts to target temperature.

Referring to Figure 11, in the voltage mode determination operation 30 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a

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voltage mode depending on whether the temperature of the object or the first metal element 110 is equal, or not, to the target temperature, a current voltage mode, and depending on whether the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metal element 110 and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value.

In detail, the voltage mode determination operation 30 includes an operation 31 to determine whether the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110, and the target temperature are the same or not, a first constant voltage mode operation 33 to emit a first voltage as a constant voltage when the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 is not equal to the target temperature, an operation 34 to determine whether the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature are equal or not, a first variable voltage mode operation 35 for the voltage supply unit, any voltage within the range from the second voltage to the third voltage, and the supply thereof, when the temperature of the object or the first element metallic 110 reached the target temperature and the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 is equal to or lower than the tem objective operation, an operation 36 for detecting whether a difference between the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 and the objective temperature exceeds, or not, the first preset value, a second constant voltage mode operation 37 of supplying, by the voltage supply unit, the first voltage to the thermoelectric module 100, when the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 has reached the target temperature and the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 exceeds the first preset value, and a operation 38 to determine whether or not the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 has reached the target temperature through a second constant voltage mode operation. Although not illustrated, the voltage mode determination operation 30 may further include a second variable voltage mode operation, of providing, by the voltage supply unit, the third voltage to the thermoelectric module 100, when the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 reached the target temperature and the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element 110 exceeds the target temperature and is equal to or less than the first preset value unlike the first variable voltage mode. The voltage mode determination operation 30, illustrated in Figure 11, can only be used for a heating operation or a cooling operation.

Although not illustrated in Figure 9 to 11, the control method of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, may further include a fan 400, a fan drive operation 400 disposed at the other end of the second metallic element 120 at a first speed when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is outside the preset range, and the rotation of the fan 400 at a second speed when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element 110 and the target temperature is within the preset range. In this case, preferably, the first speed is faster than the second speed.

Next, a method for providing cold water will be described in the case of configuring a water purifier that supplies cold water, using the electronic temperature control apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

A purified water tank of the water purifier may include a main tank body made of a synthetic resin and having an inlet and an outlet, and a thermoelectric module, in which one end of the first metallic element 110 is hermetically connected to a Open side of the main tank body. The other end of the second metallic element 120, of the thermoelectric module 100, is exposed to the outside, to which the fan 400 can be attached.

When it is assumed that a cold water target temperature is controlled to be 5.5 ° C, a first preset value is set to be 2 ° C, a first voltage is set to be 21 V, it is established that a third voltage to be 8.5 V, and a second voltage is set to be 12 V. The target cold water temperature can be set for any value between temperature ranges ranging from 0 ° C to 7 ° C. In addition , it can be set to be any value between temperature ranges ranging from 0 ° C to 2 ° C. In this case, however, preferably, the cold water temperature does not exceed 10 ° C.

A temperature of the purified water inside the purified water tank, when a cooling operation is started is equal to the ambient temperature. Therefore, since it is different from the target temperature, the purified water can be cooled rapidly by applying the first voltage to the thermoelectric module 100. When a certain period of time has elapsed and the temperature of the purified water has reached the target temperature, You can apply the third voltage to the thermoelectric module 100 in order to maintain the cold water temperature.

However, the cold water temperature can be changed by various factors, such as an ambient temperature, or the like, and in this case, when the cold water temperature is reduced to 2 ° C, below the target temperature, the feed Voltage can be interrupted. When the cold water temperature varies from 5 ° C to 7 ° C, the second voltage can still be applied.

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However, when the cold water temperature reaches 7 ° C, the first voltage can be applied as a constant voltage to cool the cold water.

In addition, the second voltage can be adjusted to reduce to 5 V, as necessary.

The feedback control can be performed so that the voltage provided to the thermoelectric module 100 is an objective voltage, and a consumed current can be measured and the feedback control can be performed so that the heat transfer capacity of the module is exercised thermoelectric 100 at a target level, as required.

In addition, the configuration and operation of the voltage supply unit 200 of the electronic temperature control apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 12 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of the voltage supply unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 12, the voltage supply unit 200 may include a constant voltage generator 210, a variable voltage generator 220 and a voltage controller 230. The voltage supply unit 200 may further include any of between a switching unit 240 and a current address controller 250.

The constant voltage generator 210 generates a first voltage output that receives power from a voltage source. The first voltage output generated and emitted by the constant voltage generator 210 has a small amount of undulations and the constant voltage generator 210 can provide high power. That is, the constant voltage generator 210 is a component to provide a high quality constant voltage. Constant voltage generator 210 can be implemented using an SMPS, as necessary.

The variable voltage generator 220 generates a variable voltage output out2 having a margin of a second voltage to a third voltage in accordance with a second control signal ctrl2, when the first voltage output generated by the constant voltage generator is received 210. That is, the variable voltage generator 220 can convert the first voltage output at any voltage out2 corresponding to the second control signal ctrl2 and, in this case, the converted voltage output out2 can be included within a range of from the second voltage to the third voltage. As necessary, the variable voltage generator 220 may be implemented using a direct current to DC converter, DCDC, and the second control signal ctrl2 may be a signal to control a voltage conversion ratio of the DCDC converter. In this case, the first voltage may be a higher voltage than the third voltage and may be a constant voltage. Accordingly, the voltage supply unit 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can provide a constant voltage such as a high voltage to the thermoelectric module 100, or provide a variable voltage having a relatively low voltage band.

When necessary, the output terminals of the constant voltage generator 210, and the variable voltage generator 220, can be connected to form an annular shape, and a voltage can be emitted from the node to which the two terminals are connected, to the thermoelectric module 100. That is, from the node in which the two output terminals are connected, one of the first voltage output out1 or the variable voltage output out2 can be provided at the output, which has a range from the second tension to the third tension.

The switching unit 240 is arranged between the output terminal of the constant voltage generator 210 and the node to which the two output terminals are connected, and controls a transfer of the first output voltage output, from the constant voltage generator 210, to the node in which the two terminals are connected. In particular, when the two output terminals are connected, the first output voltage out1 is relatively high, so that, if the first output voltage out1 is transferred, simultaneously, together with the variable voltage, only the first output voltage out1, a voltage greater than the variable voltage, can be transferred, so control of the transfer of the first output voltage out1 is required. In order to control the supply of the first output voltage out1, a high voltage and a high power, the switching unit 240 can be implemented as a power transistor, or a PET power supply. The foregoing is to prevent the switching unit 240 from being damaged or short-circuited due to a high energy signal.

The current direction controller 250 may be disposed between the variable voltage generator 220 and the node to which the two output terminals are connected, and controls a current so that it is generated from the variable voltage generator 220 only to the node in which the two output terminals are connected. That is, the current address controller 250 can be implemented as an element to form a unidirectional current path. Examples of an element to form a unidirectional current path may include a diode, a transistor and the like, and such elements may be used.

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In particular, when the first voltage from the constant voltage generator 210 is transferred to the node in which the two output terminals are connected, the output terminal or an internal circuit of the variable voltage generator 220 is required to be protected against the First output voltage out1, as a high voltage. In addition, since the first voltage is a high voltage, an element that has high voltage and high power tolerance characteristics, it can be used as the current direction controller 250.

The voltage controller 230 can generate and emit the first control signal ctrl1 to control whether the first output voltage out1 from the switching unit 240 is interrupted or it can generate and emit the second control signal ctrl2, to control a generated voltage by the variable voltage generator 220. As necessary, the voltage controller 230 can control a magnitude of the voltage that will be generated by the variable voltage generator 220 using a voltage level of the second control signal ctrl2. In addition, the second control signal ctrl2 may be output as a data signal comprising a plurality of bits to provide information regarding a voltage level to be generated by the variable voltage generator 220.

In accordance with the voltage supply unit 200 having the previous configuration, the constant voltage, such as a high voltage, and the variable voltage having a relatively low voltage band, can be selectively provided to the thermoelectric module 100.

Figure 13 is a timing diagram illustrating an operation of the voltage supply unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 13, the voltage supply unit 200 can control a voltage oscillator VO of the node to which the two output terminals are connected, in accordance with the first control voltage ctrl1 and the second control voltage ctrl2.

The constant output voltage out1 is emitted as the first voltage V1 regardless of the first control voltage ctrl1, and the second control voltage ctrl2. The variable voltage out2 is emitted in a variable form as one of the second voltage V2 and the third voltage V3, in accordance with the second control signal ctrl2.

As for the voltage VO of the node to which the two output terminals are connected, when the first control signal ctrl1 is applied, the first voltage V1 can exit the node, and when the second control signal ctrl2 is applied instead If the first control signal ctrl1 is applied, a variable voltage having a range from the second voltage V2 to the third voltage V3, can be provided at its output.

Claims (10)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 Four. Five fifty 55 60 65 1. An electronic temperature control apparatus comprising: a thermoelectric module (100) that includes a first metallic element (110), which has one end to be in contact with an object and a second metallic element (120), which has one end connected to the other end of the first metallic element ( 110); a voltage supply unit (200) for supplying a first voltage (V1) or a variable voltage having a range from a second voltage (V2) to a third voltage (V3) to the thermoelectric module (100), the voltage being applied to one end connected to the other end of the first metallic element (110); Y a controller (300) configured to control a voltage that is supplied to the thermoelectric module (100) by the voltage supply unit (200) in accordance with a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and a temperature objective; wherein when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is equal to or greater than a first preset value, the controller (300) is configured to control the voltage supply unit (200) to provide the first voltage to the thermoelectric module (100) until the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) reaches the target temperature, where the first voltage (V1) is a fixed voltage, characterized in that when the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) has reached the target temperature, the controller (300) is configured to control the voltage supply unit (200) to supply the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100), in where the first voltage (V1) is higher than the second voltage (V2). 2. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, the controller (300) It is configured to control the voltage supply unit (200) to supply the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100). 3. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is within a preset range, the controller (300) is configured to adjust the voltage supplied to the thermoelectric module (100), in proportion to the difference between the target temperature and the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110). 4. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller (300) is configured to compare the target temperature with the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110), and if the maximum temperature values are reversed, the controller (300) is configured to switch a connection state between one end of the first metallic element (110) and the other end of the second metallic element, in order to reverse the maximum potential values of one end of the first metallic element (110) and the other end of the second metallic element (120). 5. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the controller (300) is configured to further compare the temperature of the second metallic element (120), or an ambient temperature with the target temperature, and the voltage supply unit (200), provides the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100), the controller (300) is configured to correct the magnitude of the provided variable voltage. 6. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 5, wherein when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is less than the first preset value, the controller (300) controls the voltage supply unit (200) to supply the voltage variable to the thermoelectric module (100), and when the difference between the temperature of the second metallic element (120) or the ambient temperature and the target temperature exceeds a second preset value, the controller (300) is configured to reduce the preset range. 7. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a fan (400) disposed on the other side of the second metal element (120) of the thermoelectric module (100). 8. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the difference between 5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 Four. Five a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is outside the preset range, the controller (300) is configured to rotate the fan (400) at a first speed, and when the difference between a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is within a preset range, the controller (300) is configured to rotate the fan (400) at a second speed, where the First speed is faster than the second speed. 9. The electronic temperature control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller (300) is configured to detect a voltage provided to the thermoelectric module (100) by the voltage supply unit (200) and controls the voltage by feedback provided to the thermoelectric module (100) by the voltage supply unit. 10. A control method of an electronic temperature control apparatus that includes a thermoelectric module (100) comprising a first metallic element (110) having an end in contact with an object, and a second metallic element (120) which It has one end connected to the other end of the first metallic element (110), a tension applied to one end of the first metallic element (110) and the other end of the second metallic element (120), the method comprising: a temperature adjustment operation to set a previously memorized temperature or an input temperature as the target temperature; a temperature detection operation to detect a temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110); a voltage mode determination operation to determine whether a first voltage (V1) must be supplied to the thermoelectric module (100), or if a variable voltage must be supplied, which has a range from a second voltage (V2) to a third (V3) to the thermoelectric module (100) using a difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature; Y a voltage selection operation to select a variable voltage magnitude using the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature when it is determined that it supplies the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100), wherein the voltage mode determination operation comprises: a constant voltage mode operation of supplying, by a voltage supply unit, the first voltage (V1) to the thermoelectric module (100) until such time as the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) reaches the temperature target when the difference between the temperature of the object or the first metallic element (110) and the target temperature is equal to or greater than the first preset value, where the first voltage (V1) is a fixed voltage; characterized in that the voltage mode determination operation further comprises: an operation in variable voltage mode to supply, by the voltage supply unit, the variable voltage to the thermoelectric module (100) when the temperature of the object or of the first metallic element (110) has reached the target temperature, where the first voltage (V1) is higher than the second voltage (V2).