U.S. patent application number 14/621962 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-11 for demand response system.
This patent application is currently assigned to SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Young Jin BAEK, Sung Ho CHO, Seong Wook JEONG, Sun Il JIN, Hyeng Kyun KIM, Hyun Ki KIM, Jae Min LIM, Jung Won PARK, Seong Uk PYUNG, Jae Yu SEO, Chang Ho SON, Jang Beom YANG.
Application Number | 20150160675 14/621962 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44325051 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150160675 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KIM; Hyun Ki ; et
al. |
June 11, 2015 |
DEMAND RESPONSE SYSTEM
Abstract
A demand response (DR) system includes a DR control unit to
generate different DR levels having different power rates for each
power unit, and transmit a current DR level, and a household
appliance to receive the DR level from the DR control unit, and
differentially control energy output of a product in response to
the received DR level so as to reduce power consumption of the
product. As a result, the DR system reduces power consumption when
power rates are high so as to reduce electricity bills.
Inventors: |
KIM; Hyun Ki; (Seoul,
KR) ; LIM; Jae Min; (Anyang-si, KR) ; PYUNG;
Seong Uk; (Suwon-si, KR) ; JIN; Sun Il;
(Yongin-si, KR) ; KIM; Hyeng Kyun; (Yongin-si,
KR) ; SEO; Jae Yu; (Suwon-si, KR) ; JEONG;
Seong Wook; (Gwangju-si, KR) ; CHO; Sung Ho;
(Gwangju-si, KR) ; PARK; Jung Won; (Gwangju-si,
KR) ; YANG; Jang Beom; (Gwangju-si, KR) ; SON;
Chang Ho; (Hwaseong-si, KR) ; BAEK; Young Jin;
(Changwon-si, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD. |
Suwon-si |
|
KR |
|
|
Assignee: |
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO.,
LTD.
Suwon-si
KR
|
Family ID: |
44325051 |
Appl. No.: |
14/621962 |
Filed: |
February 13, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12929873 |
Feb 22, 2011 |
8983672 |
|
|
14621962 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
700/276 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 12/2803 20130101;
G05B 15/02 20130101; F24F 11/30 20180101; G05F 1/66 20130101; F24F
11/58 20180101; F24F 11/62 20180101; H02J 3/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G05F 1/66 20060101
G05F001/66; G05B 15/02 20060101 G05B015/02; H04L 12/28 20060101
H04L012/28; F24F 11/00 20060101 F24F011/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 2, 2010 |
KR |
10-2010-0018627 |
Claims
1. An air conditioner comprising: a compressor configured to
compress refrigerant; and a controller configured to control an
operation of the compressor based on a difference between a set
temperature input from a user and stored therein and a current room
temperature, receive information about a current power rate through
a network, and store a table including initial set temperatures
matched to respective power rates, wherein when the air conditioner
is turned on, the controller controls the operation of the
compressor based on the difference between the initial set
temperature and the current room temperature, if the set
temperature input and stored is lower than the initial set
temperature corresponding to received current power rate.
2. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein the table defines a
plurality of levels corresponding to respective power rate range,
and stores a plurality of initial set temperatures matched to the
respective level.
3. The air conditioner of claim 2, wherein a first difference
between an initial set temperature of the table matched to an N
level and an initial set temperature of the table matched to an N+1
level is equal to a second difference between an initial set
temperature of the table matched to an N-1 level and the initial
set temperature matched to the N level.
4. The air conditioner of claim 3, wherein the difference is a unit
temperature.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation Application of U.S. Ser.
No. 12/929,873 filed Feb. 22, 2011, and claims the benefit of
Korean Patent Application No. 10-2010-0018627, filed on Mar. 2,
2010 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] Embodiments relate to a demand response system for reducing
power consumption during peak power rates so as to reduce
electricity bills.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Generally, it is necessary for a power system to balance
demand and supply. This requirement of the power system is of
importance to rational utilization of limited energy resources.
[0006] For the aforementioned reasons, demand management is a focus
of attention, and a number of studies are underway into demand
response (DR) systems for advanced demand management.
[0007] Demand response (DR) can be defined as variation in
consumption format depending on variation in power rates. In
addition, demand response (DR) may be defined as incentive payment
to restrict electricity consumption when power rates are high.
[0008] Demand response (DR) may further include a procedure for
changing consumption behavior in the same manner as in the
aforementioned incentive payment. By means of the aforementioned
two methods, the demand response (DR) of consumers may be derived.
Consumers can reduce power consumption during a specific time
interval of high power rates even if such reduction in power
consumption during the specific interval causes inconvenience. For
example, the consumer may temporarily stop an air-conditioner in
midsummer so as to reduce power consumption when power rates are
high.
[0009] However, a conventional DR system has proposed an easy and
simple control scheme dependent upon cost or price information.
That is, the conventional DR system has been designed to limit the
operation of household appliances in response to power rates, which
may cause user inconvenience.
SUMMARY
[0010] Therefore, it is an aspect to provide a demand response
system to change energy output of a product in response to a demand
response (DR) level having power rate information per power unit,
thereby reducing peak power rates when power rates are high so as
to reduce electricity bills.
[0011] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the
description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the
description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.
[0012] In accordance with one aspect, a demand response system
includes a demand response (DR) control unit to generate different
DR levels having different power rates for each power unit, and
transmit a current DR level; and a household appliance to receive
the DR level from the DR control unit, and differentially control
energy output of a product in response to the received DR level so
as to reduce power consumption of the product.
[0013] The household appliance may include a storage unit to store
information associated with the energy output for each DR level of
the household appliance, a receiving unit to receive a DR level
from the DR control unit, a controller to change the energy output
of the household appliance to an output value corresponding to the
received DR level according to the DR level received through the
receiving unit so as to reduce power consumption of the household
appliance, and a load driving unit to drive a variety of loads of
the household appliance in response to a control signal of the
controller.
[0014] The controller may reduce energy output as the received DR
level increases.
[0015] The household appliance may be an induction heating cooker
including a working coil heating a container, and the controller
may change an initial output level of the working coil to a level
corresponding to the received DR level in response to the received
DR level.
[0016] The household appliance may be an air-conditioner, and the
controller may change an initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner to a temperature value corresponding to the
received DR level in response to the received DR level.
[0017] The household appliance may be a refrigerator, and the
controller may change an initial freezing-chamber temperature of
the refrigerator to a temperature value corresponding to the
received DR level in response to the received DR level.
[0018] The household appliance may be a refrigerator, and the
controller may change an initial compressor operation rate of the
refrigerator to an operation rate corresponding to the received DR
level in response to the received DR level.
[0019] The household appliance may include an input unit to receive
a command from a user; and the controller may disable or enable
energy output control in response to the DR level upon receiving
the user command from the input unit.
[0020] The input unit may include a first button to establish a
time zone and a second button to establish the DR level, and the
controller may maintain a DR level entered through the second
button during a time zone entered through the first button.
[0021] The input unit may include a first button to establish a
time and a second button to establish the DR level, and the
controller may maintain a DR level entered through the second
button during a time entered through the first button.
[0022] The household appliance may include a display unit, and the
controller may display a currently operating DR level on the
display unit.
[0023] The controller may display information associated with power
rates reduced by energy output control in response to the DR level
on the display unit.
[0024] The DR control unit may receive power rate information,
accumulate the received power rate information in units of a
predetermined time, i.e., one day, one week, one month, one year,
or the like, and establish the plurality of DR levels using the
accumulated power rate information.
[0025] In accordance with another aspect, an induction heating
cooking apparatus includes a load driving unit to drive a working
coil heating a container, a receiving unit to receive a demand
response (DR) level related to power rate information for each
power unit, a storage unit to store output levels of individual DR
levels, and a controller to confirm an output level corresponding
to the DR level received through the receiving unit, change the
output level established in the working coil to the confirmed
output level, and control an operation of the load driving unit in
such a manner that the working coil is operated at the changed
output level.
[0026] Information stored in the storage unit may be stored in a
manner that the output level is reduced in proportion to the
increasing DR level.
[0027] In accordance with another aspect, an air-conditioner
includes a load driving unit to drive a compressor, a receiving
unit to receive a demand response (DR) level related to power rate
information for each power unit; a storage unit to store
temperature values of individual DR levels, and a controller to
confirm a temperature value corresponding to the DR level received
through the receiver, change a set temperature established in the
air-conditioner to the confirmed temperature value, and control an
operation of the load driving unit so that the set temperature
value of the air-conditioner reaches the changed temperature
value.
[0028] Information stored in the storage unit may be stored in a
manner that the temperature value increases in proportion to the
increasing DR level.
[0029] In accordance with another aspect, a refrigerator may
include a load driving unit to drive a compressor, a receiving unit
to receive a demand response (DR) level related to power rate
information for each power unit, a storage unit to store
freezing-chamber temperature values of individual DR levels, and a
controller to confirm a freezing-chamber temperature value
corresponding to the DR level received through the receiver, change
a set freezing-chamber temperature established in the refrigerator
to the confirmed freezing-chamber temperature value, and control an
operation of the load driving unit so that the freezing-chamber
temperature value of the refrigerator reaches the changed
freezing-chamber temperature value.
[0030] Information stored in the storage unit may be stored in a
manner that the freezing-chamber temperature value increases in
proportion to the increasing DR level.
[0031] In accordance with another aspect, a refrigerator includes a
load driving unit to drive a compressor, a receiving unit to
receive a demand response (DR) level related to power rate
information for each power unit, a storage unit to store compressor
operation rates of individual DR levels, and a controller to
confirm a compressor operation rate corresponding to the DR level
received through the receiver, change a compressor operation rate
established in the refrigerator to the confirmed compressor
operation rate, and control an operation of the load driving unit
so that the refrigerator is operated at the changed compressor
operation rate.
[0032] Information stored in the storage unit may be stored in a
manner that the compressor operate rate is reduced in proportion to
the increasing DR level.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] These and/or other aspects of the invention will become
apparent and more readily appreciated from the following
description of the embodiments, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings of which:
[0034] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a demand
response (DR) system according to an embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram illustrating a household
appliance for use in a DR system according to an embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a table illustrating initial output levels in
response to DR levels of an induction heating cooker of a DR system
according to an embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling
an induction heating cooker using a DR system according to an
embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a table illustrating temperature levels in
response to DR levels of an air-conditioner for use in a DR system
according to an embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling
an air-conditioner using a DR system according to an
embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling
a refrigerator using a DR system according to an embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 8 shows an induction heating cooker for use in a DR
system according to an embodiment.
[0042] FIG. 9 shows a message indicating a DR level operation and a
message indicating reduced power rates that are displayed on a
display panel of an induction heating cooker for use in a DR system
according to an embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 10 shows an operation panel for manually establishing a
DR level of a household appliance for use in a DR system according
to an embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 11 shows another operation panel for manually
establishing a DR level of a household appliance for use in a DR
system according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments,
examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings,
wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements
throughout.
[0046] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a demand
response (DR) system according to an embodiment.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, the DR system includes a smartmeter 10
installed in a home to transmit and receive information to and from
a power company; a DR control unit 20 for receiving information
about electric charges from the smartmeter 10; and respective
household appliances 30 connected to the DR control unit 20 over a
network.
[0048] Each household appliance 30 performs a desired function
using power received through a power line.
[0049] The household appliance 30 may include all kinds of electric
household appliances, for example, an induction heating cooker, an
air-conditioner, a refrigerator, a washing machine, etc.
[0050] The DR control unit 20 receives power rate information from
the power company through the smartmeter 10, and establishes
different DR levels of individual power units using the received
power rate information. The established DR level information is
transmitted to each household appliance 30.
[0051] The DR control unit 20 records power rate information
received from the smartmeter 10 at intervals of a unit time. For
example, assuming that the unit time is set to one hour, the power
rate information is recorded 24 times each day. The DR control unit
20 establishes a plurality of DR levels representing different
power rates of individual power units on the basis of the highest
power rate and the lowest power rate using the power rate
information. In this case, each DR level may be represented by
power rates for every power unit.
[0052] Using the power rate information, the DR level can be more
accurately obtained by an average of power rate information
accumulated in units of a predetermined time, for example, one day,
one week, one month, one year, etc.
[0053] FIG. 2 is a control block diagram illustrating a household
appliance for use in a DR system according to an embodiment.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 2, the household appliance 30 includes an
input unit 31, a receiving unit 32, a sensing unit 33, a power
metering unit 34, a load driving unit 35, a transmitting unit 36, a
display unit 37, a storage unit 38, and a controller 39.
[0055] The input unit 31, for example, a keypad, a keyboard, a
joystick, a touchpad, a button, etc., is used as an interface unit
allowing a user to enter a desired command. Specifically, the input
unit 31 may be integrated with the display unit 37, and may be
configured in the form of a touchscreen.
[0056] The receiving unit 32 receives DR level information from the
DR control unit 20.
[0057] The sensing unit 33 detects various states of a household
appliance. If the household appliance is an induction heating
cooker, the sensing unit 33 includes a variety of sensors for
sensing various states of the induction heating cooker, for
example, a temperature sensor, a voltage sensor, etc. If the
household appliance is an air-conditioner, the sensing unit 33
includes a variety of sensors for sensing various states of the
air-conditioner, for example, an indoor temperature sensor, an
outdoor temperature sensor, an evaporator temperature sensor, etc.
If the household appliance is a refrigerator, the sensing unit 33
includes a variety of sensors, for example, an in-chamber
temperature sensor, an evaporator temperature sensor, a discharge
temperature sensor, etc.
[0058] The power metering unit 34 measures an amount of power
consumed in a household appliance at intervals of a predetermined
time, i.e., one day, one week, one month, one year, or the
like.
[0059] The load driving unit 35 drives a variety of loads of the
household appliance.
[0060] The transmitting unit 36 transmits a variety of information
of the household appliance to the DR control unit 20. For example,
the transmitting unit 36 transmits an amount of household-appliance
power consumption measured by the power metering unit 34 to the DR
control unit 20.
[0061] The display unit 37 displays an operation status of the
household appliance 20, and displays messages associated with both
the DR level operation and the power saving.
[0062] The storage unit 38 stores not only information related to
an initial output level for each household appliance but also
information related to a changed value of an initial output level
for each DR level.
[0063] The controller 39 controls individual elements constructing
each household appliance.
[0064] The controller 39 changes an initial output value
established in a household appliance to another output value
capable of reducing power consumption according to a DR level
received from the DR control unit 20. In this case, the controller
39 reduces the initial output value in proportion to a current DR
level, such that power consumption is reduced as the current DR
level increases.
[0065] In this case, if the household appliance is an induction
heating cooker, the controller 39 changes an initial output level
value established in a working coil for heating a container of the
induction heating cooker to another output level value capable of
reducing power consumption according to the DR level received from
the DR control unit 20. In this case, the controller 39 reduces the
initial output value in proportion to a current DR level, such that
power consumption is reduced as the current DR level increases.
[0066] In addition, if the household appliance is an
air-conditioner, the controller 39 changes an initial set
temperature value established in the air-conditioner to another
output set temperature value capable of reducing power consumption
according to the DR level received from the DR control unit 20. In
this case, the controller 39 increases the initial set temperature
value in proportion to a current DR level, such that power
consumption is reduced as the current DR level increases.
[0067] Further, if the household appliance is a refrigerator, the
controller 39 changes an initial freezing temperature value
established in the refrigerator to another freezing temperature
value capable of reducing power consumption according to a DR level
received from the DR control unit 20. In this case, the controller
39 increases the initial freezing temperature value in proportion
to a current DR level, such that power consumption is reduced as
the current DR level increases. In this case, the initial
refrigerating temperature value may be used instead of the initial
freezing temperature value.
[0068] In addition, the controller 39 establishes an associated
command in such a manner that an initial output in response to a DR
level can be manually changed in response to a user command without
being automatically changed. That is, the controller 39 confirms a
user command when an initial output is changed in response to a DR
level, such that the initial output may be immediately changed or
be changed from a reserved time or an output value to be changed
may be changed to a user-input output value.
[0069] In addition, the controller 39 displays current DR level
information so as to allow the user to recognize a current DR
level. Also, the controller 39 is operated at a current DR level so
as to allow the user to recognize the power saving effect obtained
by the DR level operation, such that it can display information
indicating how much power rates are reduced as compared to another
case in which the controller 39 is not operated at the DR
level.
[0070] Detailed operations of the controller 39 for each household
appliance will hereinafter be described in detail.
[0071] Hereinafter, operations of the controller 39 on the
assumption that the household appliance is an induction heating
cooker will be given below.
[0072] FIG. 3 is a table illustrating initial output levels in
response to DR levels of an induction heating cooker of a DR system
according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a
method for controlling an induction heating cooker using a DR
system according to an embodiment.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the controller 39 receives a DR
level from the DR control unit 20 through the receiving unit 32 at
operation 100.
[0074] After receiving the DR level from the DR control unit 20,
the controller 39 determines whether the received DR level is a
fourth DR level at operation 102.
[0075] If the received DR level is the fourth DR level at operation
102, the controller 39 confirms the initial output level of the
working coil installed in the induction heating cooker at operation
104.
[0076] After confirming the initial output level of the working
coil, the controller 39 changes the initial output level to another
output level corresponding to the fourth DR level, which is less
than the initial output level, at operation 106.
[0077] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, if the confirmed initial
output level is equal to or higher than the fourth DR level (i.e.,
PL.gtoreq.4), the controller 39 changes a new output level (NEW) to
a value of (PL-3) indicating that a third DR level is deducted from
the initial output level. If the confirmed initial output level is
a third level (PL=3), the controller 39 changes a new output level
(NEW) to a value of (PL-2) indicating that a second DR level is
deducted from the initial output level. In addition, if the
confirmed initial output level is a second DR level (PL=2), the
controller 39 changes a new output level (NEW) to a value of (PL-1)
indicating that a first level is deducted from the initial output
level.
[0078] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
fourth DR level at operation 102, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is a third DR level at operation
108.
[0079] If the received DR level is not identical to the third DR
level at operation 108, the controller 39 confirms an initial
output level of the working coil installed in the induction heating
cooker at operation 110.
[0080] After confirming the initial output level of the working
coil the controller 39 changes the initial output level to another
output level corresponding to a third DR level, which is less than
the initial output level, at operation 112.
[0081] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, if the confirmed initial
output level is equal to or higher than the third DR level (i.e.,
PL.gtoreq.3), the controller 39 changes a new output level (NEW) to
a value of (PL-2) indicating that a second DR level is deducted
from the initial output level. If the confirmed initial output
level is a second level (PL=2), the controller 39 changes a new
output level (NEW) to a value of (PL-1) indicating that a first DR
level is deducted from the initial output level.
[0082] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
third DR level at operation 108, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is a second DR level at operation
114.
[0083] If the received DR level is identical to the second DR level
at operation 114, the controller 39 confirms an initial output
level of the working coil installed in the induction heating cooker
at operation 116.
[0084] After confirming the initial output level of the working
coil the controller 39 changes the initial output level to another
output level corresponding to a second DR level, which is less than
the initial output level, at operation 118.
[0085] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, if the confirmed initial
output level is equal to or higher than the second DR level
(PL.gtoreq.2), the new output level (NEW) is changed to a value of
(PL-1) indicating that a first DR level is deducted from the
initial output level.
[0086] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
second DR level at operation 114, the controller 39 determines that
the received DR level is the first DR level, and confirms an
initial output level of the working coil installed in the induction
heating cooker at operation 120.
[0087] After confirming the initial output level, the controller 39
maintains the initial output level at operation 122.
[0088] As described above, the controller 39 changes the initial
output level to an output level corresponding to a DR level. The
output level is determined according to a duty ratio of a PWM
(Pulse Width Modulation) signal provided to the working coil. As
the DR level is changed from the first DR level to the fourth DR
level, the controller 39 gradually reduces the duty ratio. As a
result, power consumption of the working coil is reduced so that
the peak demand is also reduced.
[0089] When receiving a new DR level at the same level during a
predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds), the controller 39 recognizes
the received DR level as a valid or effective value.
[0090] An override function indicates that an initial output level
is maintained without changing the initial output level,
irrespective of the received DR level. The controller 39 maintains
the initial output level irrespective of a DR level when a user
enters this override function.
[0091] The relationship between the DR level and the initial output
level is shown in FIG. 3. For example, provided that the user sets
an initial output level to `4`, if the DR level is set to 1, level
4 is maintained without change. However, if the DR level of 2 is
used, the initial output level is changed from 4 to 3. In addition,
if the DR level of 3 is used, the initial output level is changed
from 4 to 2. If the DR level of 4 is used, the initial output level
is changed from 4 to 1.
[0092] As described above, the higher the DR level, the lower the
initial output level. As a result, the DR system according to the
embodiments can reduce power consumption during the high-DR-level
interval, resulting in reduction in electricity bills.
[0093] Operations of the DR system when the household appliance is
an air-conditioner will hereinafter be described in detail.
[0094] FIG. 5 is a table illustrating temperature levels in
response to DR levels of an air-conditioner for use in a DR system
according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a
method for controlling an air-conditioner using a DR system
according to an embodiment.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the controller 39 receives a DR
level from the DR control unit 20 through the receiving unit 32 at
operation 200.
[0096] After receiving the DR level from the DR control unit 20,
the controller 39 determines whether the received DR level is a
fourth DR level at operation 202.
[0097] If the received DR level is the fourth DR level at operation
202, the controller 39 confirms the initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner at operation 204.
[0098] After confirming the initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner, the controller 39 changes the initial set
temperature to another set temperature corresponding to the fourth
DR level less than the initial set temperature at operation
206.
[0099] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, if the confirmed initial
set temperature is equal to or higher than 25.degree. C. (i.e.,
TL.ltoreq.25.degree. C.), the controller 39 changes a new set
temperature (NEW) to a temperature value of (TL+3.degree. C.)
indicating that a temperature of 3.degree. C. is added to the
initial set temperature. If the confirmed initial set temperature
is a temperature of 26.degree. C. (i.e., TL=26.degree. C.), the
controller 39 changes a new set temperature (NEW) to a temperature
value of (TL+2.degree. C.) indicating that 2.degree. C. is added to
the initial set temperature. In addition, if the confirmed initial
set temperature is a temperature of 27.degree. C. (i.e.,
TL=27.degree. C.), the controller 39 changes a new set temperature
(NEW) to a temperature value of (TL+1.degree. C.) indicating that
1.degree. C. is added to the initial set temperature.
[0100] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
fourth DR level at operation 202, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is a third DR level at operation
208.
[0101] If the received DR level is identical to the third DR level
at operation 208, the controller 39 confirms an initial set
temperature of the air-conditioner at operation 210.
[0102] After confirming the initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner, the controller 39 changes the initial set
temperature to another set temperature corresponding to a third DR
level less than the initial set temperature at operation 212.
[0103] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, if the confirmed initial
set temperature is equal to or higher than 26.degree. C. (i.e.,
TL.ltoreq.26.degree. C.), the controller 39 changes a new set
temperature (NEW) to a temperature value of (TL+2.degree. C.)
indicating that 2.degree. C. is added to the initial set
temperature. If the confirmed initial set temperature is 27.degree.
C. (i.e., TL=27.degree. C.), the controller 39 changes a new set
temperature (NEW) to a temperature value of (TL+1.degree. C.)
indicating that 1.degree. C. is added to the initial set
temperature.
[0104] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
third DR level at operation 208, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is a second DR level at operation
214.
[0105] If the received DR level is identical to the second DR level
at operation 214, the controller 39 confirms an initial set
temperature of the air-conditioner at operation 216.
[0106] After confirming the initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner, the controller 39 changes the initial set
temperature to another set temperature corresponding to a second DR
level less than the initial set temperature at operation 218.
[0107] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, if the confirmed initial
set temperature is equal to or higher than 27.degree. C. (i.e.,
TL.ltoreq.27.degree. C.), the controller 39 changes a new set
temperature (NEW) to a temperature value of (TL+1.degree. C.)
indicating that 1.degree. C. is added to the initial set
temperature.
[0108] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
second DR level at operation 214, the controller 39 determines that
the received DR level is a first DR level, such that it confirms
the initial set temperature of the air-conditioner at operation
220.
[0109] After confirming the initial set temperature of the
air-conditioner, the controller 39 maintains this initial setup
temperature at operation 222.
[0110] As described above, the DR level is sub-divided into several
steps, such that power consumption corresponding to each level is
controlled. If a compressor is operated at a user-desired
temperature, power consumption is maximized. If the DR level is
increased, a user-desired temperature is gradually increased to
reduce the operation time of the air-conditioner, resulting in
reduced power consumption and reduced peak load.
[0111] When the new DR level is received at the same level during a
predetermined time, the DR level is changed. Upon receiving a new
level during the predetermined time, the DR level is maintained at
a previous level.
[0112] In the same manner as in the induction heating cooker, the
air-conditioner has an override function for maintaining the
initial set temperature. If the user enters the override function,
the controller 39 continuously maintains the initial set
temperature irrespective of a DR level.
[0113] The controller 39 can display the corresponding DR level on
the display unit 37 when a DR level is changed, and can display the
reduced power rates caused by the corresponding DR level
operation.
[0114] If the user does not want to control the operation of the
air-conditioner in response to the DR level, the controller 39 may
release the operation control of the air-conditioner in response to
the DR level upon receiving a command from the user.
[0115] The relationship between the DR level and the initial set
temperature is shown in FIG. 5. For example, in an ordinary case,
the user sets an initial set temperature to 18.degree. C. If the DR
level is changed during the operation of the air-conditioner, the
initial set temperature is compulsorily increased by +2.degree. C.
Thereafter, if the DR level of 1 is used, the initial user setup
information is maintained. However, as the DR level is increased,
the initial set temperature is increased in increments of
+2.degree. C.
[0116] Instead of changing the initial set temperature, the DR
system according to the present invention compulsorily adjusts the
compressor operation rate in proportion to the increasing DR level,
resulting in reduction of power consumption. That is, the DR system
gradually reduces the air-conditioner operation time in proportion
to the increasing DR level. For example, if the DR level of 1 is
used, the compressor operation of the air-conditioner is 50-minutes
operation mode.fwdarw.10-minutes stop mode. If the DR level of 2 is
used, the compressor operation of the air-conditioner is 40-minutes
operation mode.fwdarw.20-minutes stop mode. If the DR level of 3 is
used, the compressor operation of the air-conditioner is 30-minutes
operation mode.fwdarw.30-minutes stop mode. If the DR level of 4 is
used, the compressor operation of the air-conditioner is 20-minutes
operation mode.fwdarw.40-minutes stop mode.
[0117] Through the above-mentioned scheme, the higher the DR level,
the lower the initial set temperature. Alternatively, the higher
the DR level, the lower the compressor operation rate. As a result,
power consumption can be reduced during a high-DR-level interval,
resulting in reduction of power rates.
[0118] Operations of the DR system when the household appliance is
a refrigerator will hereinafter be described in detail.
[0119] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling
a refrigerator using a DR system according to an embodiment.
[0120] Referring to FIG. 7, the controller 39 receives a DR level
from the DR control unit 20 through the receiving unit 32 at
operation 300.
[0121] After receiving the DR level from the DR control unit 20,
the controller 39 determines whether the received DR level is a
fourth DR level at operation 302.
[0122] If the received DR level is the fourth DR level at operation
302, the controller 39 confirms the initial freezing-chamber
temperature of the refrigerator at operation 304.
[0123] After confirming the initial freezing-chamber temperature of
the refrigerator, the controller 39 changes the initial
freezing-chamber temperature to a freezing-chamber temperature
corresponding to the fourth DR level, which is less than the
initial freezing-chamber temperature at operation 306.
[0124] For example, the controller 39 changes a new
freezing-chamber temperature (NEW) to a temperature of
(TL+6.degree. C.) indicating that 6.degree. C. is added to the
initial freezing-chamber temperature.
[0125] In addition, the controller 39 powers off a defrosting
heater to defrost an evaporator, and at the same time displays a
current DR level (fourth DR level) at operation 308.
[0126] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
fourth DR level at operation 302, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is a third DR level at operation
310.
[0127] If the received DR level is identical to the third DR level
at operation 310, the controller 39 confirms an initial
freezing-chamber temperature of the refrigerator at operation
312.
[0128] After confirming the initial freezing-chamber temperature of
the refrigerator, the controller 39 changes the initial
freezing-chamber temperature to another freezing-chamber
temperature corresponding to the third DR level, which is less than
the initial freezing-chamber temperature at operation 314.
[0129] For example, the controller 39 changes a new
freezing-chamber set temperature (NEW) to a temperature value of
(TL+4.degree. C.) indicating that 4.degree. C. is added to the
initial freezing-chamber temperature.
[0130] The defrosting heater is powered off and at the same time
the current DR level (third DR level) is displayed at operation
316.
[0131] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
third DR level at operation 310, the controller 39 determines
whether the received DR level is identical to the second DR level
at operation 318.
[0132] If the received DR level is identical to the second DR level
at operation 318, the controller 39 confirms the initial
freezing-chamber temperature of the refrigerator at operation
320.
[0133] After confirming the initial freezing-chamber temperature of
the refrigerator, the controller 39 changes the initial
freezing-chamber temperature to another freezing-chamber
temperature corresponding to the second DR level indicating a low
freezing-chamber temperature less than the initial freezing-chamber
temperature at operation 322.
[0134] For example, the controller 39 changes a new
freezing-chamber temperature (NEW) to a temperature of
(TL+2.degree. C.) indicating that 2.degree. C. is added to the
initial freezing-chamber temperature.
[0135] Meanwhile, if the received DR level is not identical to the
second DR level at operation 318, the controller 39 determines that
the received DR level is a first DR level and confirms the initial
freezing-chamber temperature of the refrigerator at operation
326.
[0136] After confirming the initial freezing-chamber temperature of
the refrigerator, the controller 39 maintains this initial
freezing-chamber temperature at operation 328.
[0137] In addition, the current DR level (first DR level) is
displayed at operation 330.
[0138] As described above, as the DR level is increased, the
initial freezing-chamber temperature decided by the user is also
gradually increased to reduce the compressor operation time of the
refrigerator, such that power consumption is reduced and peak load
is also reduced.
[0139] Upon receiving a new DR level at the same level during a
predetermined time, the DR level is changed. Otherwise, upon
receiving a different level instead of the same level during a
predetermined time, the DR level is maintained at a previous
level.
[0140] In the same manner as in the induction heating cooker and
the air-conditioner, the refrigerator also has an override function
capable of maintaining the initial freezing-chamber temperature
irrespective of the DR level. If the user enters the override
function, the controller 39 maintains the initial freezing-chamber
temperature irrespective of the DR level.
[0141] If the DR level displayed on the display unit 37 is changed,
the controller 39 displays the corresponding DR level on the
display unit 37, and can display power consumption corresponding to
the new DR level.
[0142] In addition, if the user does not want to control the
operation of the refrigerator in response to the DR level, the
controller 39 may release the operation control of the refrigerator
in response to the DR level upon receiving a command from the
user.
[0143] If the DR level of 2 is used, the controller 39 increases
the initial freezing-chamber temperature by 2.degree. C. For
example, if the initial freezing-chamber temperature is set to
-20.degree. C., the initial freezing-chamber temperature is changed
to -18.degree. C., resulting in reduction in compressor operation
time. In this case, the defrosting heater is normally operated.
[0144] If the DR level of 3 is used, the controller 39 increases
the initial freezing-chamber temperature by 4.degree. C. For
example, if the initial freezing-chamber temperature is set to
-20.degree. C., the initial freezing-chamber temperature is changed
to -16.degree. C., resulting in reduction in compressor operation
time. In this case, the defrosting heater is not operated.
[0145] In addition, if the DR level of 4 is used, the controller 39
increases the initial freezing-chamber temperature by 6.degree. C.
For example, if the initial freezing-chamber temperature is set to
-20.degree. C., the initial freezing-chamber temperature is changed
to -14.degree. C., resulting in reduction in compressor operation
time. In this case, the defrosting heater is not operated.
[0146] Through the above-mentioned scheme, the higher the DR level,
the higher the initial freezing-chamber temperature, such that the
operation time of the compressor of the refrigerator is reduced. As
a result, power consumption can be reduced during a high-DR-level
interval, reducing power consumption.
[0147] FIG. 8 shows an induction heating cooker for use in a DR
system according to an embodiment.
[0148] Referring to FIG. 8, the induction heating cooker 30 for use
in the DR system according to the embodiment includes two heating
coils L1 and L2 that are installed under a cooking board on which a
container is put so as to provide heat to the cooking board.
[0149] In order to operate individual heating coils L1 and L2, one
side of the main body of the induction heating cooker 30 includes
not only a plurality of operation panels 50 for entering
corresponding commands but also a display panel 40 for displaying
information.
[0150] Therefore, the user puts the container on the cooking board,
confirms the positions of the heating coils L1 and L2 used to heat
the container through the display panel 40, and presses the
operation panel 50 to enter initial output levels of individual
heating coils L1 and L2, such that high-frequency power source is
provided to the heating coils L1 and L2 on which the container is
placed, thereby heating the container.
[0151] The operation panel 50 includes a first button 51 and a
second button 52. The first button 51 is a `Start Now` button, and
the second button 52 is a `Start on DR` button. The `Start Now`
button is adapted to establish an override function, and the `Start
on DR` button is adapted to release the function (i.e., override
function) for automatically executing the energy output control in
response to the DR level.
[0152] If the user operates the induction heating cooker when the
DR level is high and power rates are high, this operation of the
induction heating cooker is considered to be inefficient.
Therefore, in this case, the user may immediately operate the
induction heating cooker as needed, or may also optionally operate
the induction heating cooker at the power saving mode as needed.
For reference, these buttons can be applied to all household
appliances, for example, induction heating cookers,
air-conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, etc.
[0153] FIG. 9 shows a message indicating a DR level operation and a
message indicating reduced power rates that are displayed on a
display panel of an induction heating cooker for use in a DR system
according to an embodiment.
[0154] Referring to FIG. 9, the controller 39 displays the
currently-operating DR level information so as to allow the user to
recognize a current DR level through the display unit 37. In
addition, the controller 39 is operated at a current DR level so as
to allow the user to recognize the power saving effect obtained by
the DR level operation, such that it can display information
indicating how much power rates are reduced as compared to another
case in which the controller 39 is not operated at the DR
level.
[0155] FIG. 10 shows an operation panel for manually establishing a
DR level of a household appliance for use in a DR system according
to an embodiment. FIG. 11 shows another operation panel for
manually establishing a DR level of a household appliance for use
in a DR system according to an embodiment.
[0156] The operation panels 60 and 70 through which the user can
freely change a DR level or the like are mounted to the household
appliance, such that the user can adjust the operation panels 60
and 70 as necessary.
[0157] For example, the user may enable or disable the energy
output control in response to the DR level using the ON/OFF button
62 contained in the operation panel 60 or 70 having the DR level
set button 63. In this case, the input DR level is maintained
through the DR level set button 62 during the time zone entered
using the time-zone set button 61.
[0158] In addition, if the user enters a desired time through the
time set button 61 contained in the operation panel 70 and enters a
DR level through the DR level set button 72, the DR level entered
through the DR level set button 72 is maintained during the input
time entered through the time set button 71. If the input time has
elapsed after the expiration of a timer, the manual DR level
control is ended and energy output may be controlled in response to
the DR level received from the DR control unit 20.
[0159] Through the above-mentioned scheme, the common DR control
shortcoming in which the household appliance is unable to perform
its own performance of 100% can be eliminated, such that the DR
level can be more reasonably controlled.
[0160] As is apparent from the above description, the DR system
according to the embodiment changes an initial output level of a
household appliance in response to different DR levels having
different power rates per power unit, thereby reducing power
consumption when power rates are high so as to reduce electricity
bills.
[0161] Although a few embodiments have been shown and described, it
would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may
be made in these embodiments without departing from the principles
and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined in the
claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *