WO2015076595A1

WO2015076595A1 - Device control system and refrigerator using same

Info

Publication number: WO2015076595A1
Application number: PCT/KR2014/011217
Authority: WO
Inventors: 이마호리요지; 다나카마사나가; 야스시소다; 스즈키도시아키
Original assignee: 삼성전자주식회사
Priority date: 2013-11-22
Filing date: 2014-11-20
Publication date: 2015-05-28

Abstract

The present invention continuously operates remaining slave devices except for abnormal slave devices and easily detects the abnormal slave devices, and comprises: a plurality of slave devices; a master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; a transmission line including a main transmission line connected to the master device, and a plurality of sub-transmission lines branched from the main transmission line and connecting the plurality of slave devices in series, so as to enable data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device and to enable mutual data communication between the plurality of slave devices; and a blocking unit interposed between the main transmission line and each of the plurality of sub-transmission lines so as be enable the separation of the sub-transmission lines from the main transmission line.

Description

Device control system and refrigerator using the same

The present invention relates to a device control system having a plurality of slave devices and a master device, and a refrigerator using the same.

Recently, a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as a CPU) and a communication circuit are applied to a slave device that performs predetermined functions such as a refrigeration cycle related to cooling, an internal lighting of a refrigerator, a fan, an internal or external sensor of a refrigerator, a door switch, and the like. There are a lot of refrigerators having. That is, it has a structure (refer patent document 1) which mounts several CPU and communication circuit in one refrigerator, For example, it is equipped with the master apparatus which controls each slave apparatus, and controls each slave apparatus individually. It is the so-called centralized control method that makes it possible.

In the conventional refrigerator having the control method as described above, when an abnormality occurs in any one slave device, the power supply to all slave devices is stopped.

However, in such a refrigerator, even if the function of the abnormal slave device is not related to the basic function of cooling in the refrigerator such as a refrigeration cycle, the function of the refrigerator itself may be exhibited until the abnormal slave device becomes normal. There is a problem that all the functions of the refrigerator are stopped and the inside of the refrigerator cannot be cooled.

[Preceding technical literature]

[Patent Documents]

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-61104

Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and the main device is not only to continuously operate the slave device except the slave device including the abnormal slave device or the minimum slave device including the abnormal slave device, but also to easily detect the abnormal slave device. It is a task.

One side of the refrigerator includes a plurality of storage compartments; A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage rooms to perform a refrigerator function; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; Data transmission between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, including a main transmission path connected to the master device and a plurality of sub transmission paths branched from the main transmission path to connect the plurality of slave devices in series. A transmission path for enabling the data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And a blocking unit interposed between the main transmission path and each of the plurality of sub transmission paths, the blocking unit enabling separation of the sub transmission path from the main transmission path. It may be connected in series with the plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage rooms.

According to the refrigerator configured as described above, since the plurality of sub transmission paths connecting the plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage rooms in series are configured to be separated from the main transmission path by the cut-off unit, the storage room in which the abnormal slave devices are installed is provided. The rest of the storage room can be operated continuously. In this state, it is also possible to specify an abnormal slave device among the slave devices installed in the sub transmission path separated from the main transmission path, so that the abnormal slave device can be easily specified. Moreover, since the sub transmission path is provided for each storage chamber, manufacture of the refrigerator, such as wiring of a transmission path, can be made easy. In addition, the terminal connector can be made unnecessary. In addition, by adopting the master slave system in the refrigerator, it is possible to minimize the bundle diameter of the harness wiring constituting the main transmission path and the sub transmission path, and to reduce the foaming failure of the foam insulation (such as urethane foam). The thickness of a foam heat insulating material and a wall can be made thin, without causing troubles, such as dew condensation.

It is preferable that the said interruption part is provided in the inner wall of the said storage chamber.

As a result, the work for separating the sub transmission paths can be facilitated.

The master device may continue to operate using a slave device connected to the remaining sub transmission paths while one of the plurality of sub transmission paths is separated from the main transmission path by the blocking unit.

The blocking unit may include a connector to which an additional slave device or an external device can be connected.

The blocking unit may include a first connector installed in a state where one end of the main transmission line constituting the main transmission path and one end of the sub transmission line constituting the sub transmission path are separated from each other, and detachably installed in the first connector. It may have a second connector provided with a connection line for connecting one end of the main transmission line and one end of the sub transmission line. Accordingly, the sub transmission path can be separated from the main transmission path only by detaching the second connector element from the first connector element, thereby facilitating the operation when separating the sub transmission paths.

The plurality of sub transmission paths may be provided with connection connectors that individually detach a plurality of slave devices connected to each of the plurality of sub transmission paths.

Another side of the refrigerator includes a plurality of storage compartments; A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage chambers, each of which includes a central processing unit, a communication circuit, an operation unit for exerting a specific function, and a switch for switching on / off power supply of the operation unit; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; A transmission path enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, and enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And a current detector installed on the transmission path and detecting a current flowing in the transmission path, wherein the master device does not power the operation unit by the switch and does not operate a function of the slave device. A mode and a power supply to the operation unit to switch to a normal mode for operating the function of the slave device, and when one of the slave devices is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, the threshold is detected through the current detector. If it is determined whether a current value greater than or equal to a value is detected, and if a current value equal to or greater than the threshold value is detected, the slave device may be determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode. have.

The master device switches the plurality of slave devices from the initial mode to the normal mode, and when the abnormal slave device is detected, switches all of the plurality of slave devices to the initial mode, and then, except for the abnormal slave device. The normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode.

Another aspect of the refrigerator comprises a plurality of storage compartments; A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage compartments, each of which includes a central processing unit, a communication circuit, and an operation unit for exerting a specific function; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And a transmission path for enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device and data communication between the plurality of slave devices, wherein the master device includes an initial mode in which the slave device only receives data. And when the slave device switches to a normal mode in which data is transmitted and received, and any one slave device is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, when data communication with the slave device is disabled, the slave device The device may be determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode.

Any one of the plurality of slave devices is set as a spare master device, and when an abnormality occurs in the master device, the spare master device may maintain operation with the normal slave device and continue operation.

In addition, the device control system according to one aspect, a plurality of slave devices; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; Data transmission between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, including a main transmission path connected to the master device and a plurality of sub transmission paths branched from the main transmission path to connect the plurality of slave devices in series. A transmission path for enabling the data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And a blocking unit disposed between each of the main transmission path and the plurality of sub transmission paths, and configured to separate the sub transmission path from the main transmission path.

According to such a device control system, since a plurality of sub transmission paths for connecting a plurality of slave devices in series are configured to be separated from the main transmission path by a disconnecting unit, it is necessary to include an abnormal slave device or the abnormal slave device. The remaining slave devices can be operated continuously except the minimum slave device. In this state, it is also possible to specify an abnormal slave device among the slave devices installed in the sub transmission path separated from the main transmission path, so that the abnormal slave device can be easily specified.

The master device may continue to operate using a slave device connected to the remaining sub transmission paths while one of the plurality of sub transmission paths is separated from the main transmission path by the blocking unit. At this time, the master device specifies the sub transmission path separated by the blocking unit, switches to a control sequence only by the sub transmission paths in the connected state other than the separated sub transmission path, and thereby the sub transmission path in the connected state. Continue to operate using the slave device installed in.

The blocking unit may include a connector to which an additional slave device or an external device can be connected. As a result, it is possible to easily connect additional slave devices or to connect external devices such as a diagnostic device.

The plurality of sub transmission paths may be provided with connection connectors that individually detach a plurality of slave devices connected to each of the plurality of sub transmission paths. Accordingly, it is possible to easily detach each of a plurality of slave devices installed in each sub transmission path, and to facilitate replacement of an abnormal slave device.

In the conventional refrigerator, even if the operation unit of any one of the slave devices is short-circuited, the CPU of each slave device cannot detect the short circuit of the operation unit to turn off the power supply. Overcurrent flows through the path. Then, the overcurrent protection circuit of the power supply unit stops power supply to all slave devices including the slave device other than the abnormal slave device. In addition, even if the function of the abnormal slave device is not related to the basic function of cooling in the refrigerator such as a refrigeration cycle, the basic function of the refrigerator itself may be exerted, until the abnormal slave device becomes normal. There is a problem that all the functions are stopped and the inside of the refrigerator cannot be cooled.

Another aspect of the device control system for solving this problem includes a plurality of slave devices each including a central processing unit, a communication circuit, an operation unit for exerting a specific function, and a switch for switching on and off power supply of the operation unit; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And a transmission path enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, and enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices. An initial mode provided on the transmission path and detecting a current flowing in the transmission path, wherein the master device does not power the operation unit by the switch and does not operate a function of the slave device. And switching to a normal mode for supplying the operation unit to the normal mode to operate the slave device by the switch, and switching any one slave device from the initial mode to the normal mode, through the current detector. It is possible to determine whether or not the above current value is detected, and when the current value equal to or greater than the threshold value is detected, the slave device may be determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode. .

According to the device control system configured as described above, even when an abnormality such as over current occurs in some slave devices of the plurality of slave devices constituting the refrigerator, the slave device is determined as the abnormal slave device, and the other normal slave devices. Since the function of the slave device is exerted by switching to the normal mode, the function of the normal slave device other than the abnormal slave device is exerted, thereby preventing the inside of the refrigerator from becoming incapable of cooling.

Another aspect of the device control system includes a plurality of slave devices each having a central processing unit, a communication circuit, and an operation unit for exerting a specific function; A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And a transmission path for enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device and data communication between the plurality of slave devices, wherein the master device includes an initial mode in which the slave device only receives data. And when the slave device switches to a normal mode in which data is transmitted and received, and any one slave device is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, when data communication with the slave device is disabled, the slave device The device may be determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode.

According to the device control system configured as described above, even when an abnormality such as a communication failure or a failure of a communication circuit occurs in some slave devices of the plurality of slave devices constituting the refrigerator, the slave device is determined as the abnormal slave device. Since the other normal slave device is switched to the normal mode to exhibit the function of the slave device, the function of the normal slave device other than the abnormal slave device can be exhibited, and the inside of the refrigerator can be prevented from becoming uncoolable. . In addition, since there is no need to provide the current detection unit or the like, the components can be minimized and the refrigerator can be simplified.

The master device switches the plurality of slave devices from the initial mode to the normal mode, and when the abnormal slave device is detected, switches all of the plurality of slave devices to the initial mode, and then, except for the abnormal slave device. The normal slave device may be switched to the normal mode. Accordingly, even when the master device and the plurality of slave devices are connected in a loop shape by one of the transmission paths, the abnormal slave device is certainly detected, and only the other normal slave device is in the normal mode. It is possible to switch, and it is possible to prevent the inside of the refrigerator from becoming incapable of cooling even when an abnormality occurs in some slave devices of the plurality of slave devices constituting the refrigerator.

After the master device switches the normal slave device to the normal mode, the master device alternately switches the abnormal slave device to the initial mode and the normal mode at a predetermined cycle to determine whether the abnormality is solved. Accordingly, if the abnormal slave device is temporary, the functions of all the slave devices can be exhibited after the abnormality is resolved.

Any one of the plurality of slave devices is set as a spare master device, and when an abnormality occurs in the master device, the spare master device may maintain operation with the normal slave device and continue operation. According to the device control system configured as described above, even when an abnormality such as a communication failure or a failure of a communication circuit occurs in the master device, the spare master device replaces the master device, thereby maintaining communication with the normal slave device. Therefore, it is possible to exert the function of the normal slave device, and to prevent the inside of the refrigerator from becoming incapable of cooling.

According to the present invention configured as described above, since a plurality of sub transmission paths for connecting a plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage chambers in series are configured to be separated from the main transmission path by the disconnecting unit, abnormal slave devices are installed. The remaining storage rooms other than the storage room can be continuously operated, and an abnormal slave device can be easily specified.

1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator in the present embodiment.

2 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the blocking mechanism of the present embodiment.

3 is a schematic view showing a modification of the blocking mechanism.

4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a refrigerator of a modified embodiment.

5 is a schematic view showing the configuration of a refrigerator in the present embodiment.

6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a slave device according to the present embodiment.

7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration and processing contents of the slave device according to the present embodiment.

8 is a diagram illustrating an operation flow of a slave device according to the present embodiment.

9 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a master device according to the present embodiment.

10 is a diagram illustrating an operation flow of the master device according to the present embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the control contents of the refrigerator in the present embodiment.

It is a figure which shows the control content of the refrigerator in a modified embodiment.

First Embodiment

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Below, 1st Embodiment of the refrigerator using the apparatus control system which concerns on this invention is described with reference to drawings.

As shown in FIG. 1, the refrigerator 100 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of storage chambers (in this embodiment, a refrigerating chamber R1, a temperature changing chamber R2, and a freezing chamber R3). Transmission connecting a plurality of slave devices 1 installed in R1 to R3, a master device 2 controlling the plurality of slave devices 1, and a plurality of slave devices 1 and the master device 2; It is a so-called independent dispersion control system including the furnace 3.

In addition, the transmission path 3 has a power supply line and a bus line that enables data communication between the plurality of slave devices 1 together with data communication between the plurality of slave devices 1 and the master device 2. . In this embodiment, the power supply line consists of two power supply lines, the bus line consists of one communication line, and the transmission path 3 consists of three wire harnesses in total. Thereby, the bundle diameter of the transmission path 3 can be 3 mm-4 mm, and the diameter of the transmission path 3 can be made small. As a result, while the wall of the refrigerator 100 is made thin and the internal volume of the refrigerator 100 is enlarged, the foaming failure of the foam heat insulating material (urethane foam, etc.) installed in the wall can be reduced. In addition, the thickness of the foamed heat insulating material filled in the wall of the refrigerator 100 may be reduced to, for example, 20 mm to 30 mm.

The plurality of slave devices 1 individually have a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as a 'CPU') and a communication circuit, and are devices that perform part of a function as the refrigerator 100. The slave device 1 installed in the refrigerator compartment R1 is, for example, a refrigerator compartment door switch 1a, a refrigerator compartment temperature sensor (refrigerator internal temperature sensor) 1b, a refrigerator compartment illuminator (LED) 1c, a fan (refrigerator fan). 1d). The slave device 1 installed in the temperature changing room R2 is a temperature changing room temperature sensor (refrigerator internal temperature sensor) 1e, a damper 1f, and the like. The slave device 1 installed in the freezer compartment R3 is, for example, a defrost switch 1g, a freezer compartment temperature sensor (refrigerator internal temperature sensor) 1h, a fan (freezer compartment fan) 1i, and the like. In addition, an inverter, a condenser fan, an evaporator inlet temperature sensor, a defrosting sensor, a defrosting heater, a refrigerator external temperature sensor, a refrigerator external humidity sensor, an operation display panel, and the like are also slave devices 1. Here, in the control board of the slave device 1, since the DC-based control board through which the direct current flows is small in explosion-proof energy, the control board of the slave device 1 is disposed inside the refrigerator, and the AC-based control board through which the alternating current flows (for example, The control board) is disposed outside the refrigerator because of its explosion-proof energy.

As shown in FIG. 2, the master device 2 performs data communication with each slave device 1 by LIN (Local Interconnect Network) communication. The master apparatus 2 of this embodiment is comprised by the control board provided in the upper surface or the rear surface of the refrigerator 100. In addition, the master device 2 may be provided on the control board provided in the slave device 1 (for example, an inverter).

In addition, the master device 2 is a computer circuit including a CPU 201, an internal memory, an AD converter, an input / output interface, and the like, based on a predetermined program stored in the internal memory. To control the slave device 1 of the controller.

In the data communication between the plurality of slave devices 1 and the master device 2 of the present embodiment, a data transmission request (polling) is performed from the master device 2 to the slave device 1 at predetermined intervals, and the data The slave device 1 responds to the transmission request (ACK: acknowledge). In addition, data communication is also performed between a plurality of slave devices 1 via a bus line. Specifically, each slave device 1 outputs data at a predetermined cycle, and the other slave device 1 acquires necessary data from the output data.

In the refrigerator 100 of the present embodiment, the transmission path 3 branches off from the main transmission path 31 and the main transmission path 31 connected to the master device 2, and stores a plurality of storage chambers (refrigeration chambers ( And a plurality of sub transmission paths 32 for daisy chaining a plurality of slave devices 1 respectively installed in the R1), the temperature changing room R2 and the freezing chamber R3). In addition, the plurality of sub transmission paths 32 are daisy chained to the main transmission path 31.

Specifically, the plurality of sub transmission paths 32 include a plurality of slave devices 1 (for example, a door switch 1a, a temperature sensor 1b, an LED 1c, and a fan) provided in the refrigerating chamber R1. 1d), etc.) in series and a slave device 1 (e.g., a temperature sensor 1e, a damper 1f, etc.) installed in the temperature changing room R2 are connected in series. The sub transmission path 32b connected in series with a plurality of slave devices 1 (defrost switch 1g, temperature sensor 1h, fan 1i, etc.) installed in the freezer compartment R3. (32c).

Further, between the main transmission path 31 and each of the plurality of sub transmission paths 32a to 32c, the blocking parts 4a to 4c that allow the sub transmission paths 32a to 32c to be separated from the main transmission path 31. It is installed via.

These cut-off portions 4a to 4c are provided at the connection portions of the respective sub transmission paths 32a to 32c and the main transmission path 31 to separate the sub transmission paths 32a to 32c independently of each other. .

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the blocking units 4a to 4c include one end of the

main power lines

31x and 31y and the main communication line 31z and the sub transmission paths 32a to 32c as shown in FIG. 2. The first power supply (32x, 32y) and one end of the sub communication line (32z) constituting the space between the first connector 41 and the first connector (41) detachably installed, the main power supply A second connector provided with connecting

lines

42x, 42y, and 42z for connecting one end of the

lines

31x, 31y and the main communication line 31z, and one end of the sub

power supply lines

32x, 32y and the sub communication line 32z. 42).

In these interruption | blocking parts 4a-4c, the main

power supply line

31x, 31y and the main communication line 31z of the 1st connector 41 in the state which the 2nd connector 42 was attached to the 1st connector 41 are attached. One end of the sub

power supply line

32x, 32y and the sub communication line 32z are connected and connected by the

connection lines

42x, 42y, 42z of the second connector 42, and the first connector 41 is connected. ), One end of the

main power lines

31x and 31y and the main communication line 31z of the first connector 41 and the

sub power lines

32x and 32y and the sub communication line One end of 32z) is cut off and separated.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the spare parts 4a-4c, specifically, the 2nd connector 42 are previously provided with the spare connection port Px, and are extended so that the additional slave apparatus 1 can be connected. You can have sex.

In addition, the blocking portions 4a to 4c are provided on the inner wall (for example, the inner wall or the upper wall) of the storage chambers R1 to R3, and the user opens the doors of the storage chambers R1 to R3, and the user opens the blocking portion ( 4a-4c) is comprised so that operation is possible. Specifically, the first connectors 41 of the blocking portions 4a to 4c are fixed to the inner walls of the storage chambers R1 to R3, and the user opens the doors of the storage chambers R1 to R3, and the user opens the blocking portion ( The 2nd connector 42 of 4a-4c can be attached or detached. In addition, the blocking portions 4a to 4c of the present embodiment minimize the number of portions (perforated portions of the inner case) connected to the connector through the inner case of the refrigerator 100 and foam insulation (such as urethane foam). ) Can prevent missing insulation.

Moreover, in each sub transmission path 32a-32c, the connection connector 5 which makes it possible to detach | separate the some slave apparatus 1 connected to the sub transmission paths 32a-32c separately is provided. The connecting connector 5 is provided on the inner wall (for example, an inner wall or an upper wall) of the storage chambers R1 to R3 similarly to the blocking portions 4a to 4c, and has a first connector 51 fixed to the inner wall, It consists of a 2nd connector 52 detachably attached to the said 1st connector 51. FIG. Each slave device 1 is connected to the second connector 52. In addition, although FIG. 1 etc. showed that the specific slave device 1 was connected one-to-one to each connection connector 5, it is also possible that arbitrary slave device 1 is connected to each connection connector 5, respectively. Will do.

In the master device 2, any one of the plurality of sub transmission paths 32a to 32c is separated from the main transmission path 31 by the blocking units 4a to 4c, and the remaining sub transmission paths 32a to 32c are separated. Operation continues using the slave device 1 connected to 32c). Specifically, the master device 2 specifies the sub transmission paths separated by the blocking units 4a to 4c (for example, the sub transmission paths 32a of the refrigerating chamber R1), and the separated sub transmission paths ( Control sequence only by sub transmission paths (for example,

sub transmission paths

32b and 32c of the temperature-cooling chamber R2 and the freezing chamber R3) in the connected state other than 32a) (control sequences except the refrigerator compartment R1) It switches to, and continues to operate using the slave device 1 provided in the sub transmission path of the said connected state (for example, the

sub transmission paths

32b and 32c of the temperature change room R2 and the freezing chamber R3).

According to the refrigerator 100 comprised in this way, several sub transmission paths 32a-32c which connect the several slave apparatus 1 installed in each of several storage room R1-R3 in series are cut-off parts 4a-. Since it is comprised so that it may be isolate | separated from the main transmission path 31 by 4c), the remaining storage room (for example, the temperature change room R2) other than the storage room (for example, the refrigerating room R1) in which the abnormal slave apparatus 1 was installed. And freezer compartment R3) can continue to operate. In this state, the abnormal slave device 1 can be specified among the slave devices 1 installed in the sub transmission path 32a separated from the main transmission path 31, so that the abnormal slave device can be easily detected. have. In addition, since the sub transmission paths 32a to 32c are provided for each of the storage chambers R1 to R3, the manufacture of the refrigerator 100, such as wiring of the transmission path 3, can be facilitated. In addition, the terminal connector can be made unnecessary.

In addition, in this embodiment, since each slave device 1 has a CPU, even if it is connected to any connector without selecting a connector to be connected, data can be transmitted / received with the master device 2 and the operation can be performed. .

In addition, this invention is not limited to the said 1st Embodiment.

For example, the interrupters 4a to 4c may have connection ports to which additional slave devices or external devices can be connected. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, when the humidity sensor 1j and the gas sensor 1k are added to the refrigerating chamber R1 by changing the design specification, for example, the first of the blocking portions 4a to 4c. Considering the connector 41 as a connection port. That is, it is considered to set it as the structure which replaces the 2nd connector 42 of the interruption | blocking part 4a-4c, and adds the humidity sensor 1j and the gas sensor 1k. In detail, it is considered that the additional humidity sensor 1j and the gas sensor 1k can be connected to the port of the first connector 41 into which the second connector 42 is inserted. As a result, it is possible to replace only the second connector 42 of the disconnecting portions 4a to 4c without changing other transmission paths (wire harnesses), the connecting connector 5, or the like. The device can be handled very easily and at low cost.

In addition, in the said embodiment, independence dispersion control was performed in all the slave devices 1, but it is also possible to centrally control some slave devices 1 with the master device 2. As shown in FIG. For example, it may be configured to centrally control slave devices such as refrigerator compartment illuminators (LEDs) and water dispensers that require immediate response.

Second Embodiment

Next, a second embodiment of a refrigerator using the device control system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

The refrigerator 100 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of slave devices 10, a master device 2 for controlling the plurality of slave devices 10, a power supply line 3A connected to the AC power source 4, And a transmission path 3 having a bus line 3B which enables data communication between the plurality of slave devices 10 together with data communication between the plurality of slave devices 10 and the master device 2. And a current detection unit 5 provided on the transmission path 3 and detecting a current flowing through the transmission path 3.

The plurality of slave devices 10 are devices that perform part of the function as the refrigerator 100. As shown in FIG. 5, the plurality of slave devices 10 of the present embodiment are connected in series by one transmission path 3 (BUS line 3B). In addition, as the slave device 10 of the present embodiment, the inverter 10a, the condenser fan 10b, the evaporator fan 10c, the evaporator inlet temperature sensor 10d, in the order of being connected to the transmission path 3, Defrosting sensor 10e, Defrosting heater 10f, Door switch 10g, Refrigerator internal temperature sensor 10h, Refrigerator internal lighting 10k, Refrigerator external temperature sensor 10m, Refrigerator external humidity sensor 10n And the operation display panel 10p.

As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, each slave device 10 is individually provided with a communication circuit 10A, an operation unit 10C for exerting a specific function with the CPU 10B, and an operation unit 10C. It includes the switch 10D which switches ON / OFF of the power supply of the (). In this case, the specific function exerted by the operating unit 10C means a function of the operating unit 10C required by the refrigerator such as a switch, a fan, a sensor, and the like described later.

A refrigerator internal lighting 10k will be described as an example, and includes a communication circuit 10kA, a CPU 10kB, an LED 10kC serving as an operation unit, and a switch 10kD. Here, also about the structure of each slave apparatus 10 other than the refrigerator internal light 10k, the basic structure except the operation part 10C is the same as that of the refrigerator internal light 10k. For example, if the door switch 10g, the operating unit 10gC is a switch, and if the condenser fan 10b, the operating unit 10bC is a fan, and if the refrigerator internal temperature sensor 10h, the operating unit 10hC is Sensor.

In this embodiment, in the initial mode in which the power is not supplied to the operating unit 10C as the state of each slave device 10, that is, the switch 10D is OFF, and in the operating unit 10C. There is a normal mode in which power is supplied, that is, the switch 10D is ON.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, in the initial mode, the reception function of the communication circuit 10A is ON, the CPU 10B is ON, and the transmission function of the communication circuit 10A is OFF. ), The operating portion 10C is off (the switch 10D is off). The normal mode is a state in which the transmission / reception function of the communication circuit 10A is ON, the CPU 10B is ON, and the operating unit 10C is ON (the switch 10D is ON). .

5 and 9, the master device 2 performs data communication with each slave device 10 by LIN (Local Interconnect Network) communication, and each slave device 10 is in an initial mode and a normal mode. To switch to.

The master device 2 of this embodiment is provided on the control board provided in the slave device 10, and more specifically, it is provided on the control board of the inverter 10a. As the state of the master device 2, as shown in FIG. 10, the initial mode is a state immediately after the power is turned ON and the slave device 10 is switched from the OFF state to the initial mode. And a normal mode in which each slave device 10 is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode.

Specifically, the master device 2 is a computer circuit including a CPU, an internal memory, an AD converter, an input / output interface, and the like, and based on a predetermined program stored in the internal memory, the CPU and the peripheral device cooperate so that the slave device controller ( 2A), the overcurrent detection unit 2B, the power supply cutout unit 2C, and the like.

The slave device control unit 2A transmits a control signal to each slave device 10 to switch each slave device 10 to the initial mode and the normal mode. The other functions of the slave device control unit 2A will be described later.

The overcurrent detection unit 2B acquires a current detection signal from the current detection unit 5 provided in the power supply line 3A, and determines that an overcurrent has occurred when the current value indicated by the current detection signal is higher than a predetermined threshold. The overcurrent detection signal is input to the slave device control section 2A and the power cut section 2C. Here, the current detection part 5 is provided in the AC control board provided in the cooling chamber or the refrigerating chamber exterior, and is provided in the control board of the inverter 10a in this embodiment.

The power supply cutout unit 2C supplies the power supply of all the slave devices 10 when the overcurrent detection signal is obtained from the overcurrent detection unit 2B, or in order for the slave device control unit 2A to reset the CPUs of all the slave devices 10. It is a temporary cut.

Hereinafter, an example of the operation | movement of the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment is demonstrated with reference to FIG.

First, immediately after the power is turned on, both of the slave device 10 and the master device 2 start up in the initial mode (step 1). Thereafter, only the master device 2 shifts to the normal mode (step 2).

Next, the slave device control unit 2A of the master device 2 transmits a control signal to each slave device 10, and switches each slave device 10 from the initial mode to the normal mode in a preset order. Goes. Specifically, the slave device control unit 2A switches the first slave device 10 (for example, the inverter 10a) to the normal mode (step 3), and then the second slave device 10 (for example, The condenser fan 10b) is switched to the normal mode (step 4). In this way, when the slave device 10 is sequentially switched to the normal mode, and the overcurrent detection unit 2B does not detect the overcurrent, the slave device control unit 2A switches all the slave devices 10 to the normal mode.

Here, a case where the overcurrent detecting unit 2B detects the overcurrent will be described. As an example, the case where overcurrent occurs immediately after switching the 2nd slave device 10 (for example, condenser fan 10b) to normal mode in step 4 of FIG. 12 is demonstrated.

Immediately after the second slave device 10 (for example, the condenser fan 10b) is switched to the normal mode in step 4, for example, the current value flowing through the transmission path 3 is transferred to the transmission path 3. Exceeds the preset threshold value (1.25 A when the voltage of the transmission path 3 is 12 V) such that the sum of power consumption of all the slave devices 10 powered by In this case, the overcurrent detecting unit 2B inputs the overcurrent detecting signal to the slave device control unit 2A and the power supply cutting unit 2C. Then, the power cut off portion 2C having obtained the overcurrent detection signal temporarily cuts off the power supply to the power supply line 3A. In addition, the slave device control unit 2A determines the second slave device 10 (for example, the condenser fan 10b) that has switched to the normal mode immediately before the overcurrent detection signal is acquired as an abnormal slave device, and stores the data. Record (step 5).

Thereafter, the slave device control unit 2A resumes power supply and resets all the slave devices 10 to the initial mode (step 6). Here, the master device 10 may also be reset to the initial mode.

Then, the slave device control unit 2A switches the normal slave device 10 other than the abnormal slave device determined in step 5 from the initial mode to the normal mode again in the set order. Specifically, the slave device control unit 2A switches the first slave device 10 (for example, the inverter 10a) to the normal mode (step 7), and then sets the abnormal slave device to the initial mode. The third slave device 10 (for example, the operation display panel 10p) is switched to the normal mode (step 8). In this way, while the abnormal slave device is switched to the initial mode, other normal slave devices 10 are sequentially switched to the normal mode.

Accordingly, all slave devices 10 other than the abnormal slave device 10f can each exhibit a part of the function as the refrigerator 100.

According to the refrigerator 100 configured as described above, when an abnormality such as an overcurrent occurs in some of the slave devices 10 of the plurality of slave devices 10 constituting the refrigerator 100, the slave device 10 is an abnormal slave. It is determined that the device, and the other normal slave device 10 is switched to the normal mode to exhibit the function of the slave device 10, it is possible to prevent the inside of the refrigerator 100 from cooling.

In addition, even when the master device 2 and the plurality of slave devices 10 are connected in a loop shape by one transmission path 3, the slave device 10 certainly detects an abnormal slave device and other normal slave devices 10. ) Can be switched to the normal mode, and since the normal slave device 10 is switched to the normal mode to exhibit the function of the slave device 10, the master device 2 and the plurality of devices are connected by one transmission path 3. It is possible to prevent the inside of the refrigerator 100 from becoming uncoolable while connecting the slave device 10 to reduce wiring.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the said 2nd Embodiment.

For example, when the data communication between the slave device control unit 2A of the master device 2 and the communication circuit 10A of any slave device 10 is disabled without providing the current detection unit 5. For example, the slave device 10 may be determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device 10 may be switched to the normal mode in a predetermined order. The control contents in this case will be described below. In addition, since the control content up to step 4 and the control content after step 6 are the same as that of the said embodiment, description is abbreviate | omitted.

As shown in Fig. 12, immediately after the second slave device 10 (for example, the condenser fan 10b) is switched to the normal mode in step 4, there is a communication error between the master device 2 and the slave device 10b. When (communication failure) has occurred, the slave device control unit 2A determines the slave device 10b as an abnormal slave device, and records the data (step 5).

Accordingly, even when a communication error occurs in some of the slave devices 10 of the plurality of slave devices 10 constituting the refrigerator 100, the slave device 10 is determined to be an abnormal slave device, and other Since the slave device 10 is switched to the normal mode to perform the function of the slave device 10, the inside of the refrigerator 100 can be prevented from becoming incapable of cooling.

In addition, when the master device 2 determines any one slave device 10 as an abnormal slave device, only the normal slave device 10 is switched to the normal mode, and the abnormal slave device is initialized at a predetermined cycle. It is also possible to alternately switch between the normal mode and the control to confirm whether the abnormality has been solved.

Accordingly, in the case where the abnormality of the abnormal slave device is temporary, after the problem is solved, the functions of all the slave devices 10 can be exerted, thereby exerting all the functions of the refrigerator 100.

In the above configuration, any one of the plurality of slave devices 10 is determined as a spare master device to replace the master device 2, and although the abnormality occurs in the master device 2 and the communication is not possible, If the spare master device detects that no abnormal slave device is determined, the spare master device replaces the master device 2, and it is preferable that the spare master device and the normal slave device maintain communication and continue operation. Do. For example, as shown in Fig. 13A, the refrigerator 100 includes a master device 2 and a slave device 10, the inverter 10a and the condenser fan 10b installed on the control board of the inverter 10a. ), An evaporator fan 10c, an evaporator inlet temperature sensor 10d, and the like. The control board itself of the inverter 10a is determined as a spare master device. In addition, the control board (CPU) of the slave device 10 other than the inverter 10a may be defined as a spare master device. In the refrigerator configured as described above, the master device 2 controls each slave device 10 at the time of normal operation. On the other hand, when the master device 2 has failed, the control board of the inverter 10a which is a preliminary master device set in advance detects the failure of the master device 2 (FIG. 13 (B)). And the control board of the inverter 10a which is a preliminary master device functions as a master device 2, and controls other normal slave devices 10 (FIG. 13C).

Accordingly, when an abnormality such as a communication failure or a failure of a communication circuit occurs in the master device 2, the spare master device replaces the master device 2, and maintains communication with a normal slave device, thereby maintaining a normal slave device. Since the function of, the inside of the refrigerator 100 can be prevented from becoming incapable of cooling.

In each of the embodiments described above, the refrigerator equipped with the device control system has been described. In addition, the refrigerator may be applied as an on-vehicle device control system for controlling the on-vehicle device. You may apply as an equipment control system. In addition, the device control system may be mounted in a home appliance other than a refrigerator, or may be applied as part of a home network or the like.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, Needless to say that various deformation | transformation is possible in the range which does not deviate from the meaning.

Claims

A plurality of storage rooms;

A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage rooms to perform a refrigerator function;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices;

Data transmission between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, including a main transmission path connected to the master device and a plurality of sub transmission paths branched from the main transmission path to connect the plurality of slave devices in series. A transmission path for enabling the data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And

And a blocking unit interposed between the main transmission path and each of the plurality of sub transmission paths, and configured to separate the sub transmission path from the main transmission path.

And the plurality of sub transmission paths are connected in series with the plurality of slave devices provided in each of the plurality of storage rooms.
The method of claim 1,

The master device,

And a slave device connected to the remaining sub transmission paths while the one of the plurality of sub transmission paths is separated from the main transmission path by the blocking unit.
The method of claim 1,

The blocking unit, a refrigerator comprising a connector that can be connected to an additional slave device or an external device.
The method of claim 1.

The blocking unit,

One end of the main transmission line constituting the main transmission path and one end of the sub transmission line constituting the sub transmission path, and a first connector detachably installed on the first connector, and one end of the main transmission line. And a second connector provided with a connection line for connecting one end of the sub transmission line.
The method of claim 1,

The plurality of sub transmission paths,

And a connecting connector for separately detaching a plurality of slave devices connected to each of the plurality of sub transmission paths.
A plurality of storage rooms;

A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage chambers, each of which includes a central processing unit, a communication circuit, an operation unit for exerting a specific function, and a switch for switching on / off power supply of the operation unit;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices;

A transmission path enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, and enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And

A current detector installed on the transmission path and detecting a current flowing in the transmission path,

The master device is in an initial mode in which the switch does not power the operating unit and does not operate the slave device, and in the normal mode in which the switch feeds the operating unit to operate the slave device. When the one or more slave devices are switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, the controller detects whether a current value greater than or equal to a threshold value is detected through the current detector, and when the current value equal to or greater than the threshold value is detected. And determining the slave device as an abnormal slave device, and converting only the other normal slave device to the normal mode.
The method of claim 6,

The master device,

When the plurality of slave devices are switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, and when the abnormal slave device is detected, after switching all of the plurality of slave devices to the initial mode, the normal slave device other than the abnormal slave device is changed. Refrigerator for switching to the normal mode.
A plurality of storage rooms;

A plurality of slave devices installed in each of the plurality of storage compartments, each of which includes a central processing unit, a communication circuit, and an operation unit for exerting a specific function;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And

And a transmission path for enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device and data communication between the plurality of slave devices.

The master device switches to an initial mode in which the slave device only receives data, a normal mode in which the slave device transmits and receives data, and any one slave device is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode. After that, when data communication with the slave device is disabled, the slave device is determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device is switched to the normal mode.
The method of claim 8.

One of the plurality of slave devices is set as a spare master device,

The preliminary master device, when an error occurs in the master device, the refrigerator maintains communication with the normal slave device to continue operation.
A plurality of slave devices;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices;

Data transmission between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, including a main transmission path connected to the master device and a plurality of sub transmission paths branched from the main transmission path to connect the plurality of slave devices in series. A transmission path for enabling the data communication between the plurality of slave devices; And

A blocking unit disposed between each of the main transmission path and the plurality of sub transmission paths, and configured to separate the sub transmission path from the main transmission path;

Device control system comprising a.
The method of claim 10,

The master device,

And a slave device connected to the remaining sub transmission paths while the one of the plurality of sub transmission paths is separated from the main transmission path by the blocking unit.
The method of claim 10,

The cutoff unit includes a connector to which an additional slave device or an external device can be connected.
The method of claim 10,

The plurality of sub transmission paths,

And a connection connector for separately detaching a plurality of slave devices connected to the plurality of sub transmission paths, respectively.
A plurality of slave devices each having a central processing unit, a communication circuit, an operation unit for exerting a specific function, and a switch for switching on and off power supply of the operation unit;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And

A transmission path enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device, and enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices;

A current detector installed on the transmission path and detecting a current flowing in the transmission path,

The master device is in an initial mode in which the switch does not power the operating unit and does not operate the slave device, and in the normal mode in which the switch feeds the operating unit to operate the slave device. When the one or more slave devices are switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, the controller detects whether a current value greater than or equal to a threshold value is detected through the current detector, and when the current value equal to or greater than the threshold value is detected. And determine the slave device as an abnormal slave device, and switch only the other normal slave device to the normal mode.
The method of claim 14,

The master device,

When the plurality of slave devices are switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, and when the abnormal slave device is detected, after switching all of the plurality of slave devices to the initial mode, the normal slave device other than the abnormal slave device is changed. Device control system for switching to the normal mode.
The method of claim 14.

One of the plurality of slave devices is set as a spare master device,

And the preliminary master device maintains communication with the normal slave device and continues operation when an error occurs in the master device.
A plurality of slave devices each having a central processing unit, a communication circuit, and an operation unit for exerting a specific function;

A master device for controlling the plurality of slave devices; And

And a transmission path for enabling data communication between the plurality of slave devices and the master device and data communication between the plurality of slave devices.

The master device switches to an initial mode in which the slave device only receives data, a normal mode in which the slave device transmits and receives data, and any one slave device is switched from the initial mode to the normal mode. After that, when data communication with the slave device is disabled, the slave device is determined to be an abnormal slave device, and only the other normal slave device is switched to the normal mode.
The method of claim 17,

The master device,

When the plurality of slave devices are switched from the initial mode to the normal mode, and when the abnormal slave device is detected, after switching all of the plurality of slave devices to the initial mode, the normal slave device other than the abnormal slave device is changed. Device control system for switching to the normal mode.
The method of claim 17,

The master device,

And after the normal slave device is switched to the normal mode, the abnormal slave device is alternately switched to the initial mode and the normal mode at a predetermined cycle to check whether the abnormality is solved.
18. The method of claim 17.

One of the plurality of slave devices is set as a spare master device,

And the preliminary master device maintains communication with the normal slave device and continues operation when an error occurs in the master device.