WO2024043474A1

WO2024043474A1 - Refrigerators, home appliances, and control method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2024043474A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/008666
Authority: WO
Inventors: 공현우; 강대종
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-08-22
Filing date: 2023-06-22
Publication date: 2024-02-29
Also published as: KR20240026746A

Abstract

The present invention relates to refrigerators and home appliances comprising: a cabinet forming a storage space; a door provided to open and close the storage space; and a control unit, wherein the door includes a door body and a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and including a lighting device, and the control unit controls the lighting device to glow in a color mapped to a region selected by a user.

Description

Refrigerators, home appliances and their control methods

The present invention relates to refrigerators, home appliances, and their control methods.

Home appliances refer to devices that are mainly installed in the user's home to help the user with housework, and include refrigerators, air conditioners, air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, cooking devices, dishwashers, clothes care machines, and washing machines.

Recently, home appliances with changeable exterior panels have emerged so that the exterior design of home appliances can be easily changed, and users can change the exterior design of home appliances by changing the exterior panel.

Chinese Patent No. 103250018 discloses a refrigerator in which a reflective layer and a transparent panel are provided on the front of the door of the refrigerator, and colored light-emitting members are mounted on both ends of the reflective layer to enable the transparent panel to shine in a set color.

In this prior art, as the light-emitting member passes through the reflective layer or transparent panel, the color that the light-emitting member is intended to express may be distorted, or the color that can be expressed may be limited. Therefore, when the user selects a desired color, there is a problem that the color selected by the user may be different from the color actually expressed on the front of the door.

In addition, this prior art may be inconvenient because in order to check the status information of a home appliance installed in the home, one must directly move to the home appliance to be checked.

We provide refrigerators and home appliances that allow users to set the color displayed on the door directly through a remote device, so that the color displayed on the door matches the color desired by the user.

In addition, refrigerators and home appliances are provided that can display on the door status information of home appliances installed in the home or alarm information set by the user.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; a door provided to open and close the storage space; and a control unit, wherein the door includes a door body and a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and including a lighting device, wherein the control unit sets the lighting device to a color mapped to an area selected by the user. It is characterized by controlling it to shine.

The refrigerator further includes a communication unit, wherein the control unit changes the color based on the color information when receiving spatial coordinate values and mapped color information based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit. It is possible to control the lighting device.

The refrigerator further includes a communication unit, wherein the control unit, when receiving spatial coordinate values based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit, calculates color information matched with the spatial coordinate value, and calculates the color. It is possible to control the lighting device to change color based on information.

The refrigerator may further include a memory unit storing color information mapped to the spatial coordinate values.

The refrigerator is synchronized with the user terminal, and when the area selected by the user changes, the controller can control the lighting device to shine in a color mapped to the changed area.

The panel assembly includes a front plate formed of a light-transmitting material and forming the front of the door; a light device provided behind the front plate; and a support member provided between the front plate and the light device.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a cabinet forming a storage space and is provided to open and close the storage space, and includes a door body; and a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and equipped with a lighting device. , control unit; and Ministry of Communications; It includes, and when the control unit receives a status information notification command from the user terminal through the communication unit, it is characterized in that it controls the lighting device to change the color based on the status information notification command.

The status information may be status information of the other home appliance.

The status information is plant growth information of the plant cultivator, and the control unit is capable of controlling the lighting device to change color based on the plant growth information received through the communication unit.

The status information is operation progress information of the washing machine, and the control unit can control the lighting device to change color based on the operation progress information of the washing machine received through the communication unit.

The status information is external weather information, and the controller is capable of controlling the lighting device to change color based on the external weather information received through the communication unit.

The status information is the user's location information, and the control unit can control the lighting device to change the color based on the user's location information received through the communication unit.

The status information is the user's schedule information stored in the user terminal, and the control unit can control the lighting device to change the color based on the user's location information received through the communication unit.

A home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; a door provided to open and close the storage space; and a control unit, wherein the door includes a door body and a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and including a lighting device, wherein the control unit sets the lighting device to a color mapped to an area selected by the user. It is characterized by controlling it to shine.

The home appliance further includes a communication unit, wherein the control unit changes the color based on the color information when receiving spatial coordinate values and mapped color information based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit. It is possible to control the lighting device to do so.

Refrigerators and home appliances according to one embodiment allow a user to directly check the color displayed on the door and set the color displayed on the door through a remote device. Therefore, there is an advantage that the user's desired color can match the color expressed on the door.

Refrigerators and home appliances according to one embodiment can display status information of other home appliances installed in the home or alarm information desired by the user on the front of the door through a lighting device. Therefore, there is an advantage that user convenience is improved.

1 is a diagram illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing the refrigerator with the door open.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing a door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing the door of the refrigerator separated into a panel assembly and a door body.

Figure 5 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the lower bracket and the lighting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are separated.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a lighting device mounted on a lower bracket, which is a component of the panel assembly.

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the light emitting state of the panel assembly.

Figure 9 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the panel assembly according to the fourth embodiment.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the fifth embodiment.

Figure 14 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a flowchart of controlling the color of a panel assembly through a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 16 is a diagram showing a case where the color of a panel assembly is controlled through a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17 is a diagram showing a case where the color of a panel assembly is controlled through a user terminal according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing a flow chart for controlling a home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing a case where the plant cultivator changes the color of the refrigerator panel assembly based on the progress of the operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a diagram showing a case where the washing machine changes the color of the refrigerator panel assembly based on the progress of the operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 21 is a diagram showing a case of changing the color of a refrigerator panel assembly based on weather information according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 22 is a diagram showing a case of changing the color of a refrigerator panel assembly based on user approach detection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating a case of changing the color of a refrigerator panel assembly based on a user's input according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 24 is a diagram showing an example of adjusting the color of home appliances to which the panel assembly is applied using a remote device.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail along with the drawings. However, the present invention cannot be said to be limited to the embodiments in which the idea of the present invention is presented, and other inventions that are regressive or other embodiments included within the scope of the present invention can be easily developed by adding, changing, or deleting other components. can be suggested.

The home appliance of the present invention is equipped with a panel assembly equipped with a lighting device on the outer surface, and can change the design or color of the exterior based on user input.

In addition, the home appliance of the present invention allows the user to directly set the color implemented in the panel assembly through the terminal.

Home appliances of the present invention may include refrigerators, air conditioners, air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, cooking appliances, dishwashers, clothes care machines, washing machines, etc. However, the type of home appliance is not limited to the above example, and may be included without limitation as long as it is provided in the user's home and helps the user with housework.

First, the refrigerator is described as a type of home appliance, and the description of the refrigerator can also be applied to other types of home appliances.

1 is a diagram illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 2 is a diagram showing the refrigerator with the door open.

The embodiment of the present invention is forward in the direction toward the door based on the cabinet shown in FIG. 1, backward in the direction toward the cabinet relative to the door, downward in the direction toward the floor where the refrigerator is installed, and downward in the direction toward the floor surface where the refrigerator is installed. The direction can be defined as upward.

The home appliance according to one embodiment may correspond to a refrigerator 1.

The exterior of the refrigerator 1 may be formed by a cabinet 10 that forms a storage space, and a door 20 that opens and closes the storage space of the cabinet 10.

For example, the cabinet 10 may form a storage space divided into upper and lower sections, and a refrigerating compartment 11 may be formed at the top and a freezer compartment 12 may be formed at the bottom. The refrigerating compartment 11 may be referred to as an upper storage space, and the freezer compartment 12 may be referred to as a lower storage space.

The door 20 may be configured to open and close the refrigerating compartment 11 and the freezing compartment 12, respectively. The door 20 may include a refrigerating compartment door 201 that opens and closes the refrigerating compartment 11 and a freezer compartment door 202 that opens and closes the freezing compartment 12. In addition, a pair of the refrigerating compartment doors 201 may be arranged side by side on both left and right sides, and each refrigerating compartment door 201 can partially open and close the refrigerating compartment 11. Additionally, a pair of the freezer compartment doors 202 may be arranged side by side on both left and right sides, and the freezer compartment 12 divided into the left and right sides can be opened and closed, respectively. The refrigerating compartment door 201 is provided at the top of the cabinet 10, so it can be called an upper door, and the freezer door 202 is provided at the bottom of the cabinet 10, so it can be called a lower door.

The door 20 is connected by

hinge devices

204, 205, and 206 and can be rotatably mounted on the cabinet 10. By rotating the door 20, the refrigerating chamber 11 and the freezing chamber 12 can be opened and closed, respectively.

In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation and understanding, a refrigerator with a structure in which the refrigerating compartment 11 is disposed at the top and the freezer compartment 12 is disposed at the bottom is described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to the form of the refrigerator. It can be applied to all types of refrigerators equipped with doors.

Meanwhile, the door 20 forms the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 in a closed state, and can form the exterior of the refrigerator 1 seen from the front when the refrigerator 1 is installed.

The door 20 may have a structure that allows the front surface to selectively emit light, and may be configured to illuminate with a set color or brightness. Accordingly, the user can manipulate the front color or brightness of the door 20 to change without removing or disassembling the door 20 and change the overall appearance of the refrigerator 1.

Hereinafter, the structure of the door 20 will be examined in detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing a door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the door of the refrigerator is separated into a panel assembly and a door body.

The door 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a panel assembly 30 mounted on the front of the door.

The door 20 may include a door body 40 that forms the overall shape of the door 20, and a panel assembly 30 that forms the front exterior of the door 20.

The door 20 may be configured so that the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the front of the door body 40.

The door body 40 may include a body plate 41 on which the panel assembly 30 is mounted, and a door liner 42 that forms the rear of the door 20. The door body 40 may include side decorations 44 forming both left and right sides.

The door body 40 may include an upper cap deco 43 and a lower cap deco 45 that form the upper and lower surfaces of the door body 40, respectively.

The door body 40 may be formed by the body plate 41, the door liner 42, the side decor 44, the upper cap decor 43, and the lower cap decor 45.

The space inside the door body 40 may be filled with an insulating material 400, and may have an insulating structure to prevent heat transfer through the door 20.

A space 410 that opens forward and accommodates the panel assembly 30 may be formed on the front of the door body 40.

The panel assembly 30 may be inserted into the panel accommodation space 410 .

When the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the front of the door body 40, the panel assembly 30 shields the front of the door body 40. Additionally, the panel assembly 30 may form the front exterior of the door 20 .

The panel assembly 30 according to the present invention may be configured to have a lighting device 36 therein so that the entire front of the panel assembly 30 emits light.

Hereinafter, the panel assembly 30 will be described in detail.

Figure 5 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the lower bracket and the lighting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are separated. And, Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a lighting device mounted on a lower bracket, which is a component of the panel assembly. And, Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the light emitting state of the panel assembly.

The panel assembly 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a front plate 31 that forms the front exterior, a lighting device 36 that radiates light so that the front plate 31 shines, and a lighting device 36. It may include a light guide plate 33 that guides the light emitted from. And, it may further include a support member 32.

The panel assembly 30 may further include an upper bracket 34 forming the upper surface of the panel assembly 30 and a lower bracket 35 forming the lower surface of the panel assembly 30.

The lighting device 36 may be mounted on the lower bracket 35. Additionally, the panel assembly 30 may further include a back cover 39 forming a rear surface.

The front plate 31 may be transparent so that light reflected by the light guide plate 33 can be transmitted.

The front plate 31 can prevent the internal components of the panel assembly 30 from being visible to the outside through the front plate 31 due to the color of the front plate 31 itself when the lighting device 36 is turned off. there is.

The lighting device 36 may include a substrate 361 and a plurality of light sources 362 arranged on the substrate 361. The light source 362 is composed of an RGB LED (Red Green Blue light emitting diode) and can emit light of various colors.

The light guide plate 33 may be located at the rear, spaced apart from the front plate 31, and may be configured to guide the light emitted from the lighting device 36 disposed below the light guide plate 33 to the front.

The light guide plate 33 may be supported at the rear by the back cover 39. At this time, it can be fixed by the support member 32 to maintain a certain distance from the front plate 31.

The top and bottom of the back cover 39 may be in contact with the upper bracket 34 and the lower bracket 35, respectively.

The support member 32 may have a structure in which the light guide plate 33 and the front plate 31 can be fixed. The support member 32 can maintain a certain distance between the light guide plate 33 and the front plate 31.

The lighting device 36 emits light to determine the front color and brightness of the panel assembly.

The lighting device 36 is configured to irradiate light toward the light guide plate 33. The lighting device 36 may be provided inside the lower bracket 35, and may be assembled and installed together with the lower bracket 35 while being mounted on the lower bracket 35.

For example, the lower bracket 35 may have a structure that supports the front plate 31 and the bottom of the light guide plate 33 when the lighting device 36 is mounted.

The lower bracket front portion 351 may support a portion of the front plate 31. A portion of the rear portion 352 of the lower bracket may be opened to form a receiving space 350 in which the lighting device 36 is mounted.

A light guide plate support portion 355 protruding rearward may be formed on the lower bracket front portion 351. The upper surface of the light guide plate supporter 355 may protrude to support the lower end of the light guide plate 33.

The light guide plate support portion 355 and the lower bracket lower surface portion 354 may restrain the writing device 36 from above and below.

A light supporter 37 may be provided inside the lower bracket 35. The light supporter 37 may support the lighting device 36 inside the lower bracket 35. The light supporter 37 can dissipate heat generated by the lighting device 36 through conduction.

The light supporter 37 may include a first supporting part 372 that supports the lighting device 36 and a second supporting part 371 in contact with the back cover 39.

The back cover 39 forms the rear of the panel assembly 30 and can be combined with the upper bracket 34 and the lower bracket 35. The back cover 39 may form the entire rear shape of the panel assembly 30.

In this way, the panel assembly 30 is provided with a lighting device 36, and the light emitted from the lighting device 36 passes through the front plate 31 through the light guide plate, so that the front of the door can shine brightly.

The panel assembly according to the second embodiment includes a lighting device 36 that irradiates light to the front and a back cover 39 that supports the lighting device 36 from the rear, and the panel assembly 30 forms the rear exterior. It can be included.

The panel assembly 30 may further include an upper bracket 34 forming the upper surface and a lower bracket 35 forming the lower surface.

The lighting device 36 may include a plate-shaped substrate 361 and a plurality of LEDs 364 disposed on the front surface of the substrate 361.

As another example, the lighting device 36 may be composed of a base 363 and a plurality of LEDs 364 mounted on the base 363. The base 363 may be formed of one or more sheets and may be configured in a film-like form.

The panel assembly according to the third embodiment further includes a lighting device 36, a back cover 39, and a front plate 31 provided in front of the lighting device 36. The front plate 31 uses the description of the front plate 31 described above.

Additionally, in order to mount the lighting device 36 to the back cover 39,

coupling portions

384 and 395 may be further included.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing a separated state of the panel assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the panel assembly according to the fourth embodiment.

The panel assembly 30 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention includes a front plate 31, a lighting device 360, and a back cover 39.

The panel assembly 30 may include an upper bracket 34 that forms the upper surface of the panel assembly 30. The panel assembly 30 may further include a lower bracket 35 that forms the lower surface of the panel assembly 30.

The panel assembly 30 according to the fourth embodiment may further include a spacer 320 provided between the front plate 31 and the lighting device 360.

The spacer 320 may be fixedly mounted on the rear of the panel assembly 30.

The spaced portion 320 may include a plate-shaped front portion 321 and a side portion 322 protruding rearward from both left and right side ends of the front portion 321.

In this way, an air gap 320a may be formed between the panel 30 and the lighting device 36 by the spacer 320.

This spaced portion 320 may also be called a support member in that it supports the front plate from the rear.

By forming an air gap between the lighting device 360 and the panel 30, the diffusion of light emitted from the light source can be expanded. Accordingly, there is an advantage in being able to express more natural colors and images on the front of the door.

This panel assembly 30 allows the front of the door to shine brightly in a set color.

The panel assembly according to the fifth embodiment includes an electrophoresis panel 370 and a front plate 31. And, if necessary, a lighting device 36 may be further included.

This electrophoresis panel may be prepared including an activation film (front plane laminate, FPL) on which an ink capsule is provided.

The panel body 370a may include an upper electrode layer provided on top of the activation film and a lower electrode layer provided on the bottom of the activation film. Each of the upper electrode layer and the lower electrode layer may be electrically connected to the panel connector 370b.

The rear of the front plate 31 may include a lighting device 36 and a light guide plate 33 that guides the light emitted from the lighting device 36.

If necessary, side brackets 331 may be provided on both sides of the light guide plate 33 so that both ends of the light guide plate 33 are inserted.

If necessary, a reflective layer 365 may be further provided behind the light guide plate 33. The reflective layer 365 can improve the efficiency of the lighting device 36 by reflecting the light emitted from the LED 362.

The user can set the

lighting devices

36 and 360 through the remote device 2.

The remote device 2 may be a variety of devices capable of communication, such as a dedicated terminal, mobile phone, tablet, portable PC, desktop PC, remote control, or Bluetooth speaker. This remote device 2 may also be called a user terminal.

The user can generally manipulate and set the operating state of the

lighting devices

36 and 360 through the remote device 2 or the control panel.

The refrigerator 1 and the remote device 2 may be connected to the server in a network state. Accordingly, the refrigerator 1 door color or image may be input through the server.

The control unit 38 can control the

lighting devices

36 and 360 to output output in a state set by the user.

Among the plurality of doors 20 forming the front exterior of the refrigerator 1, the panel assemblies 30 constituting some of the doors 20 emit light, or the panel assemblies 30 constituting the plurality of doors 20 emit light. They may emit light independently in different colors to form the front exterior of the refrigerator 1.

Additionally, the

lighting devices

36 and 360 may be turned on at a designated time or set time interval input from the timer 385 to change the color of the front of the door 20.

The

lighting devices

36 and 360 may be operated depending on the operating state of the refrigerator 1.

Depending on the operation mode or state of the refrigerator 1, the

lighting devices

36 and 360 are operated in a preset state, so that the color of the front of the door 20 can be changed.

For example, when the door 20 is open for a long time and no signal is input from the door switch 381 for more than a set time, the lighting device illuminates the front of the door 20 in a different color to notify that the door 20 is open. You can do it.

The lighting device 36 may be operated according to the operation of the driving unit 382 for operating the refrigerator 1. For example, if the control unit 38 determines that the compressor is abnormally operating or malfunctioning, the lighting device 36 may be operated in response. That is, when determining a problem with the compressor, the front of the door 20 can be illuminated with a set color, or the user can be informed of the problem by turning it on and off repeatedly.

The driving unit 382 may be configured in various ways, such as a defrost heater, deodorizing device, ice maker, and water purification device, and the lighting device 36 may be operated in conjunction with the operation of the driving unit 382.

Additionally, the lighting device 36 may be operated according to the temperature inside the refrigerator detected by the temperature sensor 383. As an example, the lighting device 36 can make the front of the door 20 shine in a set color according to a set temperature range so that the temperature status can be intuitively known.

Additionally, the lighting device 36 may be operated according to the detection sensor 384. As an example, the detection sensor 384 may be a proximity sensor. In detail, when the proximity sensor detects the user's proximity, the brightness of the door 20 can be made darker by lowering the output of the lighting device 36 to prevent dazzling the user.

When the user's proximity is detected by a detection sensor, the lighting device 36 can shorten the change cycle of the door color or start the change, and perform a set operation at the user's proximity, such as changing the color continuously. You can.

The lighting device 36 may be operated depending on the status of not only the refrigerator but also other devices that are networked or capable of communicating with the refrigerator 1.

For example, when washing in the washing machine or dryer is completed, the door may illuminate in a color set by the operation of the lighting device 36 to inform the user of the status of the washing machine or dryer.

Users can update new features of the refrigerator through a remote device. The refrigerator can add new functions through updates with the server.

Meanwhile, as the light emitted from the lighting device 36 passes through the light guide plate 33 and the front plate 31, saturation may decrease or color may be distorted due to reflection. In this case, the panel assembly 30 may shine in a color different from the color set by the user.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the color of the panel assembly 30 illuminated through the lighting device 36 can be directly set by the user through the user terminal. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the color desired by the user can be matched with the color expressed in the panel assembly 30.

Hereinafter, a method for setting the color implemented in the panel assembly 30 will be described in detail.

Figure 15 is a flowchart of controlling the color of a panel assembly through a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 16 is a diagram showing a case where the color of the panel assembly is controlled through a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The user can select the color of the panel assembly 30 using an application installed on the terminal 2.

For example, the application may list a list of colors frequently set by the user or preset colors.

Additionally, the application may be displayed in a color palette or color picker format that lists colors that can be implemented.

When the control unit 38 receives color information selected by the user from the terminal 2, the control unit 38 can control the lighting device 36 to make the panel assembly 30 shine with the set color.

Meanwhile, the front plate 31 may have its own unique color. That is, when the lighting device 36 is turned off, the front door of the refrigerator can be formed in the color of the front plate 31 itself.

When the lighting device 36 is turned on, the light emitted from the lighting device 36 passes through the front plate 31, and the color of the light emitted from the lighting device 36 is the color of the front plate 31. can be mixed with Accordingly, there may be a difference between the color desired by the user and the color implemented in the panel assembly 30.

In other words, even if the user selects the desired color on the screen displayed using the Color Palette or COLOR PICKER method, the color displayed on the front of the door may look different from the color desired by the user.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 38 may control the color of light emitted from the lighting device 36 so that the color of the panel assembly 30 is realized in a color set by the user.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, when specifying the color implemented in the panel assembly 30 by controlling the lighting device, the color may not be specified directly, but may be specified only with relative space coordinates using the touch screen of the remote device. there is.

If the user only specifies coordinates in relative space rather than using the touch screen of the remote device to specify a color, the controller can control the lighting device to directly irradiate the virtually mapped color. When the lighting device examines the virtually mapped color and creates the coordinates (color) of the relative space desired by the user, the user can save the coordinate value of the relative space and reuse it.

In other words, when specifying the color of the product door surface using LED, the color is not directly specified, and the color is not specified using the touch screen of an external device, but is virtually mapped by specifying only the coordinates of the relative space. When the coordinates (color) desired by the customer are created by examining the color directly on the product, the value can be saved and selected for reuse.

The word virtual can be defined as relative space coordinates.

In detail, the control unit 38 may be synchronized with the terminal 2. When a user sets a color implemented in the panel assembly 30 through the terminal 2, the control unit 38 can control the lighting device 36 by reflecting the color. Through this, the color of the panel assembly 30 can be implemented in a color that matches the color desired by the user.

For example, referring to FIGS. 15 and 16 , a color variable area 2a may be displayed on at least a portion of the screen of the terminal 2. The user can change the color of the panel assembly 30 by touching the color variable area 2a with his or her finger and moving it in the up, down, left, and right directions (S10).

Icons that induce a user's touch may be displayed in the color variable area 2a. Color information may not appear in the color variable area.

When the user touches the color variable area 2a, the terminal 2 can calculate the spatial coordinates of the touched area. And, the spatial coordinate value may be mapped to the preset color area 100. (S11)

The color area mapped to the spatial coordinate value may be composed of a color palette. In detail, the color variable area 2a may be divided into a plurality of areas corresponding to spatial coordinate values. Each of the plurality of areas may be mapped to a preset color.

As another example, spatial coordinate values may each be mapped to RGB values of color.

At this time, the spatial coordinate value may be preset within the color variable area 2a.

When the user moves in the up, down, left, and right directions while touching the color variable area 2a, the spatial coordinate value of the touched area changes. The control unit 38 may receive changed spatial coordinate values and mapped color information. The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light in the received color based on the received color information. (S12)

To this end, the refrigerator 1 may include a memory unit that stores conversion information for converting the color variable area 2a into the color area 100.

In this way, the user can directly check the color implemented in the panel assembly in real time by touching an arbitrary area within the color variable area 2a without directly specifying a color through the terminal 2. When a user touches an arbitrary area within the color variable area 2a, the spatial coordinates of the touched area can be calculated. Additionally, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light using spatial coordinate values and a mapped color.

When the lighting device 36 radiates light in the mapped color, the user can directly check the color of the panel assembly 30 transmitted through the front plate 31.

If the color of the panel assembly 30 is not the desired color, the user can change the touched spatial coordinate value by moving his or her finger within the color variable area 2a.

Additionally, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light with the changed spatial coordinate value and the mapped color.

Additionally, when the desired color is implemented in the panel assembly 30, the user can select the coordinate value of the color variable region 2a. The controller 38 can control the lighting device 36 to shine with a color mapped to the selected relative space coordinate value.

In this way, the user can check the color change of the panel assembly 30 in real time by moving his or her finger in the up, down, left, and right directions on the color variable area 2a of the terminal 2. Also, when the panel assembly 30 is changed to a desired color, the user can select it to shine in the set color through the terminal 2.

Additionally, when a desired color is implemented in the panel assembly 30, the user can store the relative space coordinates through the terminal 2. The user's desired color can be re-implemented in the panel assembly 30 through the stored coordinate values of the color variable area 2a.

In a refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention, a user can correct the color implemented in the panel assembly 30 through the terminal 2.

Referring to FIG. 17, the user can change the color, brightness, or saturation through the terminal 2.

The user terminal 2 may list a list of colors frequently set by the user or preset colors.

Additionally, the user terminal 2 may be displayed in a color palette or color picker format that lists colors that can be implemented.

When the control unit 38 receives color information selected by the user from the terminal 2, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light in the selected color.

The user can correct the color, brightness, or saturation through the user terminal 2 while checking the color implemented in the panel assembly 30.

For example, when the user moves the color button 2c left or right in the terminal 2, the position coordinate value of the color button 2c can be calculated. The control unit 38 may receive the calculated position coordinate values and mapped color information. The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light in the received color.

For example, when the user moves the brightness button 2d left or right in the terminal 2, the position coordinate value of the brightness button can be calculated. The control unit 38 may receive the calculated position coordinate values and mapped color information. The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light in the received color.

For example, when the user moves the saturation button 2e left or right in the terminal 2, the position coordinate value of the saturation button can be calculated. The control unit 38 may receive the calculated position coordinate values and mapped color information. The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to emit light in the received color.

Accordingly, the user can change the color of the panel assembly 30 while checking the color implemented in the panel assembly 30 in real time.

The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention can change the color of the panel assembly 30 based on the operating status of different types of home appliances.

Additionally, the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention can change the color of the panel assembly 30 based on information provided from a server or user terminal.

The control unit 38 may receive a selection command for color change conditions of the panel assembly 30. That is, the user can command a status information notification to display status information such as other home appliances, external weather, and schedules on the panel assembly 30 through the refrigerator 1 or the user terminal 2.

And, the control unit 38 can receive a status information notification command from the user (S20).

In detail, the user can input color setting information of the panel assembly 30 directly into the refrigerator 1.

For example, the refrigerator 1 may be equipped with a microphone 386 through which the user's voice is input. The user can input color setting information for the panel assembly 30 using voice. The control unit 38 can control the color of the panel assembly 30 to change according to the user's voice command received through the microphone 386.

Additionally, the user can set color change information for the panel assembly 30 through the input unit 387 provided in the refrigerator 1.

Additionally, the user can set the color change information of the panel assembly 30 through the user terminal 2.

The user can set the refrigerator 1 to display the operating status of other types of home appliances other than the refrigerator.

For example, the user can set the growth level of the plants growing in the plant grower to be displayed on the front of the refrigerator (1) door, or the progress of the washing machine's operation can be displayed on the front of the refrigerator (1).

Additionally, the user can set external weather information or a schedule stored in the user terminal 2 to be displayed on the front of the door of the refrigerator 1.

Additionally, the control unit 38 may receive status information about user notification settings from other types of home appliances, servers, or user terminals. (S21)

The refrigerator 1 can be connected to other types of home appliances through wireless communication through the communication unit 388. For example, the refrigerator 1 and other types of home appliances may be wirelessly connected to each other through Bluetooth.

The refrigerator 1 may be connected to the server 3 through the communication unit 388. Additionally, the refrigerator 1 may be connected to the user terminal 2 through the communication unit 388.

Through this, the control unit 38 can receive information about the operating status of different types of home appliances. Additionally, the control unit 38 may receive weather information, user location information, or user schedule information through the server or user terminal 2.

And, the control unit 38 can control the lighting device 36 according to the received status information. (S23)

In detail, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to change the color based on user setting information when a color change condition is met.

For example, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to display the growth level of plants growing in the plant grower on the panel assembly 30.

For example, the control unit 38 can control the lighting device 36 to display the progress of the washing machine's operation on the panel assembly 30.

For example, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to display external weather information received through the server on the panel assembly 30.

For example, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the panel assembly 30 lights up with a set color when the user arrives home.

For example, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to display the schedule stored in the user terminal 2 on the panel assembly 30.

Referring to FIG. 19, based on plant growth information in the plant cultivator, the degree to which the cultivated plant has grown can be displayed on the refrigerator panel assembly.

For example, the plant cultivator 60 may include a cabinet 600 that forms a cultivation space, and a door 601 that opens and closes the cabinet 600 from the front. In addition, a plurality of beds on which pods containing plant seeds are placed may be arranged in the cultivation space.

The control unit of the plant cultivator 60 can check the extent to which the plant has grown, that is, growth information, based on the time elapsed from the time the pod was seated on the bed.

The control unit 38 of the refrigerator 1 controls the lighting device 36 based on the growth information of the plant cultivator 60 according to the user's input to determine the degree to which the plants have grown in the refrigerator panel assembly 30. It can be displayed.

The user input may be performed directly by the user through a voice command such as “How much has Ttun-woon grown?” through the microphone 386 of the refrigerator 1, or through the input unit 387 provided on the refrigerator 1.

Alternatively, the user input may be performed to display growth information of the plant cultivator 60 on the refrigerator 1 through an application on the user terminal.

The plant cultivator 60 and the refrigerator 1 may be connected directly through wireless communication such as Bluetooth, or indirectly through the user terminal 2 or server 3.

The refrigerator 1 can check the growth information of the plant cultivation through the communication unit 388.

Based on Figure 19, the length of the left and right widths of the upper left door 201a and the upper right door 201b can be defined as 100%. In addition, it can be confirmed that the plant has grown as it approaches from the left end of the left door 201a to the right end of the right door 201b, based on 0% growth of the plant at the left end of the left door 201a. In other words, the standard can be set to the right end of the right door 201b where plant growth is 100%.

For example, when the plants in the plant cultivator 60 have grown to about 70%, the control unit 38 of the refrigerator, as shown in FIG. 19, grows a portion of the area (a) at a position that is 70% from the left end of the left door 201a to the right. ) can be controlled to light or blink in a set color.

Referring to FIG. 20, the color of the refrigerator panel assembly 30 may be changed based on the user's input and the progress of the washing machine operation. Accordingly, the user can check the progress of the washing machine's operation using only the color of the refrigerator panel assembly 30 without directly checking the washing machine.

User input may be performed directly by the user through a voice command such as “How much is left in the washing machine?” through the microphone 386 of the refrigerator 1, or through the input unit 387 provided in the refrigerator 1.

Alternatively, user input may be performed to display operation information of the washing machine 8 on the refrigerator 1 through an application on the user terminal.

Depending on the user input, the washing machine 8 can transmit operation progress information to the refrigerator 1 through wireless communication.

To this end, the washing machine 8 and the refrigerator 1 may be directly connected to each other through wireless communication such as Bluetooth, or may be indirectly connected to each other through a user terminal or server.

Depending on the user input, the total time required for the washing machine to operate can be divided into set sections, and the doors matching each section can be made to glow in a set color.

For example, status information set by the user may be displayed through a single door, or status information set by the user may be displayed by setting a pair of adjacent doors as one screen.

The control unit 38 divides the washing into 1 to 4 sections according to the operation progress time, and controls the lighting device 36, so that section 1 is the upper left door, section 2 is the upper right door, and section 3 is the lower left door. , In section 4, the lower right door can be made to glow in a set color.

Alternatively, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the refrigerator panel assembly 30 blinks in a set color when the entire operation of the washing machine is completed.

Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating a case of changing the color of a refrigerator panel assembly based on weather information according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 21, the control unit 38 can receive weather information from an external server through the communication unit 388. Additionally, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to display colors in response to the received external weather information. Through this, the refrigerator 1 can convey the outside weather to the user more intuitively.

User input may be performed directly by the user through a voice command such as “How is the weather today?” through the microphone 386 of the refrigerator 1, or through the input unit 387 provided on the refrigerator 1.

Alternatively, user input may be performed to display weather information on the refrigerator 1 through an application on the user terminal.

Additionally, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 to display external weather information over time according to the user's input.

For example, as time passes toward the right from 0 o'clock at the left end of the upper left door (201a), the right end of the upper right door (201b) may become 12 o'clock. In addition, as time passes toward the right from 12 o'clock on the left end of the lower left door 202a, the right end of the lower right door 202b may become 24 o'clock.

That is, the upper door 201 may indicate morning time and the lower door 202 may indicate afternoon time.

Based on this, weather information according to time changes can be displayed on the refrigerator 1.

For example, the control unit 38 may indicate that the received external weather information indicates that fine dust is generated between 7:00 AM and 12:00 PM, and that it is clear weather after 12:00 PM. The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the color of the upper right door 201b corresponding to the period between 7:00 AM and 12:00 AM is displayed in red. Additionally, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the lower left door 202a and lower right door 202b are displayed in blue after 12 p.m.

Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating a case where the color of a refrigerator panel assembly is changed based on user approach detection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 22, when the user arrives home after work, the control unit 38 can control the panel assembly 30 to shine brightly in a set color. Through this, user convenience can be increased.

The user terminal 2 and the refrigerator 1 may be connected to each other through wireless communication, and the user terminal 2 may be equipped with a GPS device.

When the location of the user terminal 2 reaches the location set by the user, the control unit 38 can receive user arrival information transmitted by the user terminal 2 through the communication unit 388.

When the control unit 38 receives user arrival information, it can control the lighting device 36 to emit a color set by the panel assembly 30.

Additionally, upon receiving user arrival information, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the panel assembly 30 lights up with a set image.

Referring to FIG. 23, the control unit 38 can change the color of the panel assembly 30 based on the user's schedule information.

In detail, the user can save the user's schedule through the user terminal 2 and set it to display an alarm on the refrigerator 1. At this time, the user may set the color of the panel assembly 30 for each schedule.

The user terminal 2 can transmit the user's schedule information through a wireless connection with the refrigerator 1.

The control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that a color set at a position corresponding to the received user's schedule information shines.

For example, the upper left door 201a may be defined as within 3 hours from the current time, and the upper right door 201b may be defined as more than 3 hours to within 6 hours from the current time.

The lower left door 202a may be defined as more than 6 hours to less than 9 hours from the current time.

The lower right door 202b may be defined as more than 9 hours to less than 12 hours from the current time.

That is, the time elapsed from the current time can be expressed in the following order: upper right door 201b, upper left door 201a, lower left door 202a, and lower right door 202b.

Based on this, the controller 38 can control the lighting device 36 so that the location corresponding to the user's schedule is brightly lit.

For example, if there is a family schedule within 3 hours from the current time, the controller 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that the upper left door 201a lights up with a set color (b).

At this time, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that only a portion of the upper left door 201a lights up in a set color or in a specific shape.

Additionally, if there is a company schedule within 6 hours from the current time, the control unit 38 can control the lighting device 36 so that the upper right door 201b lights up with a set color. Of course, the control unit 38 may control the lighting device 36 so that only a portion of the upper right door 201b lights up in a set color (c) or in a specific shape.

In this way, the user can check through the refrigerator 1 that there is an important schedule within a few hours from the current time.

As shown in the drawing, the home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an appearance formed by the panel assembly 30, and the appearance may change to a color set by the user according to the operation of the lighting device 36. It can be.

The panel assembly 30 can be displayed in various colors by the light of the lighting device 36 emitted from the rear of the panel 31, and can also display pictures, text, images, and videos on the screen. .

The home appliance may be one of a refrigerator (1), an air conditioner (5), a dishwasher (6), a clothes care machine (7), a washing machine (8), a cooking appliance (9), or a vacuum cleaner (50), each of which By applying the same structure as the panel assemblies 30, 30a, 30b, and 30c of the embodiments of the present invention, the exterior color of the front can be freely changed.

The air conditioner (5) indoor unit may have a space provided with a heat exchange device, a fan, etc. inside the case (51, or cabinet) that forms the exterior. Additionally, the front of the case 51 may be formed by a panel assembly 511. The panel assembly 511 has the same structure as the panel assembly 30 of the refrigerator 1 described above and may emit light.

Accordingly, according to user settings, the panel assembly 511 shines in a set color, and the front exterior color of the indoor unit of the air conditioner 5 can be changed to the set color.

As another example, the dishwasher 6 may have a space for washing dishes inside the case 61 (or cabinet) that forms the exterior. Additionally, the front of the case 61 can be opened and closed by the door 62, and the front of the door 62 can be formed by the panel assembly 621. The panel assembly 621 has the same structure as the panel assembly 30 of the refrigerator 1 described above and may emit light.

As another example, the clothing manager 7 may have a space in which clothing is stored inside the case 71 (or cabinet) that forms the exterior. Additionally, the front of the case 71 can be opened and closed by the door 72, and the front of the door 72 can be formed by the panel assembly 721. The panel assembly 721 has the same structure as the panel assembly 30 of the refrigerator 1 described above and may emit light.

As another example, a washing machine 8 or dryer may have a space for washing or drying inside the case 81 (or cabinet) that forms the exterior. Also, the front of the case 81 can be opened and closed by the door 82. Meanwhile, the front of the case 81 may be formed by a panel assembly 811. The panel assembly 811 has the same structure as the panel assembly 30 of the refrigerator 1 described above and may emit light.

As another example, the cooking appliance 9 may have a space for cooking food inside the case 91 (or cabinet) that forms the exterior. Additionally, the front of the case 91 can be opened and closed by a door 92, and the front of the door 92 can be formed by a panel assembly 921. The panel assembly 921 has the same structure as the panel assembly 30 of the refrigerator 1 described above and may emit light.

Refrigerators and home appliances according to one embodiment allow a user to directly check the color displayed on the door and set the color displayed on the door through a remote device. Therefore, there is an advantage that the color desired by the user can match the color expressed on the door, so there is industrial applicability.

Refrigerators and home appliances according to one embodiment can display status information of other home appliances installed in the home or alarm information desired by the user on the front of the door through a lighting device. Therefore, there is an advantage that user convenience is improved, so there is industrial applicability.

Claims

cabinets forming storage space;

a door provided to open and close the storage space; and

Includes a control unit;

The door is

Comprising a door body, a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and including a lighting device,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to glow in a color mapped to an area selected by the user.
According to paragraph 1,

The refrigerator,

It further includes a communication department;

The control unit,

When receiving spatial coordinate values and mapped color information based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change color based on the color information.
According to paragraph 1,

The refrigerator,

It further includes a communication department;

The control unit,

When receiving spatial coordinate values based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit,

Calculate color information matched with the spatial coordinate value,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change color based on the color information.
According to paragraph 3,

The refrigerator,

A refrigerator further comprising a memory unit storing color information mapped to the spatial coordinate values.
According to paragraph 2,

The refrigerator,

synchronized with the user terminal,

The control unit,

When the area selected by the user changes,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to illuminate with a color mapped to the changed area.
According to paragraph 1,

The panel assembly is,

a front plate formed of a light-transmittable material and forming the front of the door;

a light device provided behind the front plate; and

A refrigerator including a support member provided between the front plate and the light device.
cabinets forming storage space and

A door provided to open and close the storage space, including a door body; and a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and equipped with a lighting device,

control unit; and

Ministry of Communications; Including,

The control unit,

When receiving a status information notification command from the user terminal through the communication unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change color based on the status information notification command.
In clause 7,

The status information is

Refrigerator, which is status information of the other home appliances.
According to clause 8,

The status information is,

This is plant growth information during the plant cultivation period,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change color based on plant growth information received through the communication unit.
According to clause 8,

The status information is,

Information on the operation progress of the washing machine,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change colors based on operation progress information of the washing machine received through the communication unit.
In clause 7,

The status information is,

External weather information,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change colors based on external weather information received through the communication unit.
In clause 7,

The status information is,

The user's location information,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change colors based on user location information received through the communication unit.
In clause 7,

The status information is,

This is the user's schedule information stored in the user terminal,

The control unit,

A refrigerator that controls the lighting device to change colors based on user location information received through the communication unit.
cabinets forming storage space;

a door provided to open and close the storage space; and

Includes a control unit;

The door is

Comprising a door body, a panel assembly provided in front of the door body and including a lighting device,

The control unit,

A home appliance device that controls the lighting device to shine in a color mapped to an area selected by the user.
According to clause 14,

The home appliances are,

It further includes a communication department;

The control unit,

When receiving spatial coordinate values and mapped color information based on the area selected by the user through the communication unit,

A home appliance that controls the lighting device to change color based on the color information.