DISHWASHER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME

Abstract

A dishwasher may include: a user interface device; communication circuitry; and a controller configured to: receive, through the communication circuitry, external humidity information detected by an appliance in an environment of the appliance, based on the received external humidity information and a washing course of the dishwasher that is input via the user interface device, change setting information related to an operation of at least one of a rinsing process of the washing course or a drying process of the washing course, and based on the changed setting information, control the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process of the washing course or the drying process of the washing course.

Claims

1. A dishwasher, comprising: a user interface device; communication circuitry; and a controller configured to: receive, through the communication circuitry, external humidity information detected by an appliance in an environment of the appliance, based on the received external humidity information and a washing course of the dishwasher that is input via the user interface device, change setting information related to an operation of at least one of a rinsing process of the washing course or a drying process of the washing course, and based on the changed setting information, control the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process of the washing course or the drying process of the washing course.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive the detected external humidity information at at least one of a power-on time of the dishwasher or a drying process start time of the dishwasher.

3. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the appliance is registered with a user account, and the controller is further configured to: receive the detected external humidity information from a server through the communication circuitry.

4. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the appliance is registered with a user account, and the controller is further configured to: receive the detected external humidity information from the appliance through the communication circuitry.

5. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the appliance includes a plurality of appliances and each appliance of the plurality of appliances is in a respectively corresponding environment, and the controller is further configured to: receive identification information for each appliance of the plurality of appliances through the communication circuitry, and determine a target home appliance of the plurality of appliances based on the received identification information for each appliance of the plurality of appliances, and the received external humidity information is external humidity information detected by the determined target home appliance.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5, wherein for each appliance of the plurality of appliances, the identification information includes information about a relative distance between the appliance and the dishwasher.

7. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: based on the received external humidity information, change a temperature of washing water of the dishwasher in the rinsing process of the washing course.

8. The dishwasher of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to: based on an external humidity indicated by the received external humidity information being greater than or equal to a first humidity, increase the temperature of the washing water in the rinsing process of the washing course, and based on the external humidity indicated by the received external humidity information being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity, decrease the temperature of the washing water in the rinsing process of the washing course.

9. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising: a tub; and a drying device configured to heat air in the tub, the drying device including: a fan configured to circulate air in the tub, and a heater configured to heat the air circulated by the fan, wherein the controller is further configured to: based on the received external humidity information, change an operating time of the heater and an operating time of the fan in the drying process of the washing course.

10. The dishwasher of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to: based on an external humidity indicated by the received external humidity information being greater than or equal to a first humidity, increase the operating time of the heater and increase the operating time of the fan in the drying process of the washing course, and based on the external humidity being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity, decrease the operating time of the heater and decrease the operating time of the fan in the drying process of the washing course.

11. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising: a tub; a door configured to open and close to respectively open and close an opening of the tub; and a door operator configured to drive the door to open and close the opening of the tub, wherein the controller is configured to: based on an external humidity indicated by the received external humidity information being greater than or equal to a first humidity, increase an opening time of the door and increase a number of times the door is opened in the drying process of the washing course.

12. The dishwasher of claim 1, further comprising: a tub; and an internal humidity sensor configured to sense an internal humidity of the tub and produce data corresponding to the sensed internal humidity, wherein the controller is further configured to: based on a difference between an external humidity indicated by the received external humidity information and the produced data, perform an additional drying operation or stop a drying operation in the drying process of the washing course.

13. A method for controlling a dishwasher including a user interface device, communication circuitry, and a controller, the method comprising: by the controller, receiving a selection of a washing course of the dishwasher via the user interface device, receiving, through the communication circuitry, external humidity information detected by an appliance in an environment of the appliance, based on the received external humidity information and the received selection of the washing course, changing setting information related to an operation of at least one of a rinsing process of the washing course or a drying process of the washing course, and based on the changed setting information, controlling the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process of the washing course or the drying process of the washing course.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the receiving the external humidity information further includes: receiving the detected external humidity information from a server through the communication circuitry, the appliance being registered with a user account, or receiving the detected external humidity information from the appliance through the communication circuitry, the appliance being registered with the user account.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the receiving the external humidity information further includes: receiving identification information for each appliance of a plurality of appliances through the communication circuitry, each appliance of the plurality of appliances being in a respectively corresponding environment, determining a target home appliance of the plurality of appliances based on the received identification information for each appliance of the plurality of appliances, and receiving the external humidity information as external humidity information detected by the determined target home appliance in the respectively corresponding environment through the communication circuitry.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which a door of a dishwasher is opened according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates the dishwasher of FIG. 3 viewed from another direction.

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a drying device included in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a network of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a washing course of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 9 illustrates a user interface device for receiving a washing course selection in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 10 illustrates that a washing course is selected through FIG. 9.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment in more detail.

[0034] FIG. 13 is a graph illustrating changes in external humidity and internal tub humidity before and after a drying process of a washing course in a case where an external environment of a dishwasher according to an embodiment is highly humid.

[0035] FIG. 14 is a graph illustrating changes in external humidity and internal tub humidity before and after a drying process of a washing course in a case where an external environment of a dishwasher according to an embodiment is dry.

[0036] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a dishwasher according to an embodiment determines a target home appliance to receive external humidity information among other home appliances.

[0037] FIG. 16 is a graph illustrating a relationship between an external humidity and temperatures of rinsing process/drying process of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 17 is a graph illustrating relationships among an external humidity, temperatures of rinsing process/drying process of a dishwasher according to an embodiment, and time.

[0039] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of changing setting values of a rinsing process/drying process based on an external humidity of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 19 illustrates another example of changing setting values of a rinsing process/drying process based on an external humidity of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

MODES OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0041] Various embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

[0042] In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

[0043] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

[0044] In the disclosure, phrases, such as A or B, at least one of A and B, at least one of A or B, at least one of A, or B, A, B or C, at least one of A, B and C, and at least one of A, B, or C may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0045] The term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] Terms such as 1st, 2nd, primary, or secondary may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0047] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being (functionally or communicatively) coupled or connected to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0048] It will be understood that when the terms includes, comprises, including, and/or comprising are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

[0049] When a given element is referred to as being connected to, coupled to, supported by or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

[0050] It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being on another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

[0051] Hereinafter, the principles of operation and embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a dishwasher 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may include a cabinet 12 forming an external appearance, and a door 20. The main body 10 may include a top cover 11 which is provided at an upper side of the cabinet 12 and forms an upper surface of the main body 10. The top cover 11 may be formed integrally with or separately from the cabinet 12. The top cover 11 may be formed as part of the cabinet 12. In a case where the dishwasher 1 is prepared in a built-in form, the cabinet 12 may be omitted.

[0054] The dishwasher 1 may include a tub 13 disposed inside the main body 10. The tub 13 may form a washing chamber 14 inside. The door 20 may be rotatably mounted on the cabinet 12 to open and close the tub 13. The door 20 may be rotatably installed on the cabinet 12. The door 20 may be hingedly coupled to a lower portion of the cabinet 12. The door 20 may be coupled to the cabinet 12 by a hinge device 30.

[0055] In addition, a user interface device 200 may be provided on an outer surface of the main body 10.

[0056] The user interface device 200 may receive a control command from a user and may output an electrical signal corresponding to the received command.

[0057] The user interface device 200 may include at least one of a keyboard, mouse, track-ball, touch screen, touch pad, paddle, lever, handle, joystick, or other various input devices.

[0058] The user interface device 200 may include at least one of a plasma display panel (PDP), a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a seven-segment display to display various information related to operation of the dishwasher 1.

[0059] The user interface device 200 may be implemented as a touch screen.

[0060] The user interface device 200 may receive a washing course selection from a user and display the selected washing course and information related to the washing course. For example, washing courses may include automatic, standard, intensive, glassware, rapid, self-clean, downloadable courses, and the like. In a case where a user selects a standard, the standard washing course and information related to the standard washing course may be displayed.

[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which a door of a dishwasher is opened according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 illustrates the dishwasher of FIG. 3 viewed from another direction.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the cabinet 12 may be provided in a substantially box shape. One side of the cabinet 12 may be open. In other words, the cabinet 12 may have an opening. For example, a front side of the cabinet 12 may be open. The cabinet 12 and the tub 13 may be provided in the shape of a hexahedron in which substantially one surface is opened so as to serve as an opening. The cabinet 12 may include a rear plate 12d, both side plates 12b and 12c extending to one side and the other in front of the rear plate 12d, and a front plate 12f formed to be bent from the both side plates 12b and 12c. The front plate 12f may be provided to form an opening at the front of the cabinet 12. The front plate 12f is shown as being integrally extended from the both side plates 12b and 12c, but is not limited thereto. The door 20 may be arranged to open and close the opening in the front plate 12f.

[0063] Inside the cabinet 12, a sump 40, a plurality of baskets 50, guide racks 60, and a plurality of spray nozzles 71, 72, and 73 may be disposed. Here, the sump 40 may be disposed in a lower portion of the tub 13 to collect water used for washing, the plurality of baskets 50 may be provided to be withdrawable from the inside to the outside of the cabinet 12 to accommodate dishes, the guide racks 60 that support the plurality of baskets 50, and the plurality of spray nozzles 71, 72, and 73 that spray water delivered from the sump 40 toward the dishes accommodated in the plurality of baskets 50. The plurality of spray nozzles 71, 72, and 73 may be referred to as a sprayer 70.

[0064] A plurality of dishes of various volumes and/or sizes may be accommodated in the plurality of baskets 50. The types and sizes of dishes accommodated in the plurality of baskets 50 are not limited. The plurality of baskets 50 may include a first basket 51, a second basket 52, and a third basket 53.

[0065] The first basket 51 may be coupled to the tub 13 at an upper portion of the tub 13 so as to be located above the second basket 52 and the third basket 53. The second basket 52 may be coupled to the tub 13 at a middle portion of the tub 13 so as to be located below the first basket 51 and/or above the third basket 53. The third basket 53 may be coupled to the tub 13 at a lower portion of the tub 13 so as to be located below the first basket 51 and the second basket 52.

[0066] The first basket 51 may be a sub-basket that accommodates relatively small dishes. A small cup such as an espresso cup may be accommodated in the sub-basket. The types of dishes accommodated in the sub-basket are not limited to the above example. In addition, in a case where the plurality of baskets 50 are arranged to be separated in the vertical direction at different heights, the number of baskets is not limited to the examples described above.

[0067] The dishwasher 1 may include the plurality of guide racks 60 to support the plurality of baskets 50 inside the tub 13. The plurality of guide racks 60 may be provided as rails for withdrawing out each of the baskets.

[0068] The guide racks 60 may be installed on inner surfaces of side walls 13a and 13b of the tub 13 of the dishwasher to allow each of the plurality of baskets 50 to slide toward the front surface of the tub 13. For example, the guide racks 60 may be installed on the left wall 13a and right wall 13b of the tub 13. A plurality of guide racks 60 may be provided. Along the guide racks 60, the first basket 51, the second basket 52, and the third basket 53 may slide back and forth within the tub 13.

[0069] The sump 40 may be installed at a center of the lower portion of the cabinet 12 to collect washing water used for washing. The sump 40 may store and supply washing water. The sump 40 may include a washing pump 41 to pump the stored water to the sprayer 70. Washing water pumped by the washing pump 41 may be supplied to each of the first spray nozzle 71, the second spray nozzle 72, and the third spray nozzle 73 through a rear supply pipe. In addition, the sump 40 may include a washing water heater 42 disposed below the cabinet 12 to heat washing water, and a drain pump 43 disposed below the tub 13 to drain the washing water to the outside.

[0070] The dishwasher 1 may include the sprayer 70 to spray washing water. The sprayer 70 may include the plurality of spray nozzles 71, 72, and 73. The sprayer 70 may include the first spray nozzle 71 arranged above the first basket 51, the second spray nozzle 72 arranged above the first basket 51 and the second basket 52 (that is, between the second basket 52 and the third basket 53), and the third spray nozzle 73 arranged below the third basket 53.

[0071] The first spray nozzle 71 may be rotatable. The first spray nozzle 71 may spray washing water toward dishes accommodated in the first basket 51 and/or the second basket 52. The second spray nozzle 72 may be rotatable. The second spray nozzle 72 may spray washing water toward dishes accommodated in the second basket 52 and the third basket 53. The third spray nozzle 73 may be rotatable. The third spray nozzle 73 may spray washing water toward dishes accommodated in the third basket 53.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 3, the dishwasher 1 may include a drying device 100. The drying device 100 may be coupled to an outer side of the tub 13. For example, the drying device 100 may be coupled to one of the side walls 13a and 13b of the tub 13. Although it is illustrated in FIG. 3 that the drying device 100 is coupled to the left wall 13a, the drying device 100 may be coupled to the right wall 13b.

[0073] The drying device 100 may be detachably mounted on the outer side of the tub 13. The drying device 100 may be disposed between the outer side of the tub 13 and the inner side of the cabinet 12. In other words, the drying device 100 may be arranged in a space formed between the cabinet 12 and the tub 13.

[0074] Humid air in the tub 13 (i.e., the washing chamber 14) may flow into the drying device 100 located outside the tub 13 through an inlet cover 81 mounted to an inner side of the tub 13. The air flowing into the drying device 100 may be heated, and the heated, dry air may be discharged back into the tub 13 through an outlet cover 91.

[0075] In addition, the dishwasher 1 may include a height adjuster (not shown) disposed adjacent to the side walls 13a and 13b of the tub 13. The height adjuster may adjust a height at which the second basket 52 is inserted into the washing chamber 14. For example, the height of the second basket 52 may be raised toward the first basket 51 or may be lowered toward the third basket 53. However, even though the height of the second basket 52 is changed, no interference occurs between the inlet cover 81 and the second basket 52.

[0076] The inlet cover 81 and the outlet cover 91 may be mounted to an inner surface of the tub 13 between the plurality of baskets 50 arranged at different heights. In other words, an inlet 170 and an outlet 180 of the drying device 100 may be arranged between the plurality of baskets 50 arranged at different heights. The drying device 100 are described in more detail below.

[0077] In addition, the dishwasher 1 may include a door operator 300 to drive the door 20. The door operator 300 may be disposed at an upper portion of the cabinet 12 inside the cabinet 12. The door operator 300 may be placed above the tub 13. In other words, the door operator 300 may be located between the cabinet 12 and the tub 13. The door operator 300 may be electrically connected to a controller 500 to be described below, and may open or close the door 20 under control of the controller 500. The door operator 300 may also adjust an opening angle of the door 20.

[0078] The door operator 300 may be connected to a locking assembly 21 of the door 20. The door operator 300 may include a motor and a sliding bar. The sliding bar may be moved forward or rearward relative to the dishwasher 1 by operation of the motor. The sliding bar may be connected to the locking assembly 21 of the door operator 300. When the sliding bar protrudes forward from the main body 10, the door 20 may be opened. When the sliding bar moves backward into the main body 10, the door 20 may be pulled into the main body 10 and thus closed. An opening angle of the door 20 may be adjusted based on how far the sliding bar protrudes. The door 20 may be completely opened by separating the sliding bar from the locking assembly 21 of the door 20.

[0079] FIG. 5 illustrates a drying device included in a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 5, the dishwasher 1 may include the drying device 100. The drying device 100 may be coupled to the one side wall 13a of the tub 13. The dishwasher 1 may perform a washing process for washing dishes accommodated in the tub 13, a rinsing process for rinsing the dishes, and a drying process for drying air in the washing chamber 14 after the rinsing process.

[0081] Through the drying process, a relative humidity in the tub 13 may be reduced. The drying device 100 for performing the drying process may include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120. The first housing 110 may be coupled to the tub 13 so as to communicate with the washing chamber 14. The second housing 120 may be disposed on an outer side of the first housing 110 to allow air of the washing chamber 14 to be circulated, and may form a flow path together with the first housing 110. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be coupled facing each other. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may include a plastic material.

[0082] The first housing 110 may include the inlet 170 and the outlet 180. The inlet 170 may be formed on one side of the first housing 110 to allow air of the washing chamber 14 to flow into the drying device 100. The inlet 170 may communicate with an inflow port (not shown) formed on one of the side walls 13a and 13b of the tub 13 on which the drying device 100 is mounted. The outlet 180 may be formed on another side of the first housing 110 to allow air to be discharged into the washing chamber 14. The outlet 180 may communicate with an outflow port (not shown) formed on one of the side walls 13a and 13b of the tub 13 on which the drying device 100 is mounted.

[0083] Because the housing of the drying device 100 is arranged in the front-rear direction of the tub 13, the outlet 180 is located forward of the inlet 170. In other words, air from a rear portion of the washing chamber 14 may flow into the drying device 100 through the inlet 170 formed in the first housing 110, and air heated in the drying device 100 may be discharged to the front of the washing chamber 14 through the outlet 180 formed in the first housing 110.

[0084] The drying device 100 may include a driving fan 130, a heater 150, and a temperature sensor 160 accommodated in the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. In addition, the drying device 100 may include a heater switch 140. The components of the drying device 100 are not limited to the above components, and some of the above-described components may be omitted or other components may be added.

[0085] The driving fan 130 may circulate air in the tub 13. As the driving fan 130 rotates, air may move along the flow path in the drying device 100. The driving fan 130 may be located upstream of the heater switch 140 and the heater 150 along the flow path. A centrifugal fan may be used as the driving fan 130, but the type of the driving fan 130 is not limited thereto.

[0086] The heater 150 may include a sheathed heater. The sheathed heater may be a tubular heater.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the dishwasher 1 may include a sheathed heater with large heat capacity for heating fluid. Accordingly, even in a case where water is present in the tub 13, a function of the heater 150 may not be affected. For example, even in a case where water in the tub 13 flows into the drying device 100 during a washing process or a rinsing process before a drying process, the function of the heater 150 may not be affected.

[0088] The heater 150 may receive power from the outside of the drying device 100. In addition, the heater 150 may be electrically connected to the heater switch 140 at an upper portion of the drying device 100. Accordingly, the heater switch 140 may block power supply to the heater 150.

[0089] In a case where the heater 150 continues operating in a state where air does not flow due to malfunctions of the driving fan 130, the heated air may not be discharged to the outside of the drying device 100. In this case, the inside of the drying device 100 may be overheated. In a case where power supply to the heater 150 is not cut off, the heated air may damage the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 of the drying device 100.

[0090] The heater switch 140 may be provided to prevent the above. The heater switch 140 may include a switching element connected to the heater 150 and a temperature sensor. The heater switch 140 may be disposed upstream of the heater 150 and may detect an internal temperature of the drying device 100.

[0091] The heater switch 140 may be mounted between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. In other words, the heater switch 140 may be mounted between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120, and may be supported together by the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. Because air heated by the heater 150 rises upward, the heater switch 140 may be located above the heater 150 to detect the heated air more sensitively.

[0092] The controller 500 may control the switching element to turn off the heater 150, based on an air temperature detected by the temperature sensor of the heater switch 140 reaching a predetermined overheating temperature. Once the switching element is turned off, power supply to the heater 150 may be blocked. Accordingly, overheating inside the drying device 100 may be prevented.

[0093] In addition, the heater switch 140 may detect a temperature of air introduced into the drying device 100. The temperature of the air introduced into the drying device 100 may be the same as a temperature in the tub. The controller 500 may determine whether to open the door 20 during the drying process based on changes in the temperature in the tub detected by the heater switch 140.

[0094] The temperature sensor 160 may be mounted in the flow path between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The temperature sensor 160 may be disposed downstream of the heater 150. The temperature sensor 160 disposed downstream of the heater 150 may detect a temperature of the air heated by the heater 150 and may transmit a detection signal to the controller 500. The controller 500 may control the heater 150 to adjust the temperature of air supplied into the tub 13.

[0095] Humid air from the rear portion of the washing chamber 14 may flow into the drying device 100 through the inlet 170 of the drying device 100. Air that is dried and heated by the drying device 100 may be discharged to the front of the washing chamber 14 through the outlet 180 of the drying device 100.

[0096] Described is a process in which air from the washing chamber 14 flows into the drying device 100 and the introduced air is discharged back to the washing chamber 14 during a drying process.

[0097] As the drying process starts, the driving fan 130 in the drying device 100 may rotate. The driving fan 130 may draw humid air in the tub 13 into the drying device 100. The drawn air may flow toward the inlet 170 of the drying device 100. The air may move along the flow path formed between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120, and may be supplied into the tub 13 through the outlet 180. The air introduced through the inlet 170 may be heated while passing through the heater 150. The heated air may be supplied into the tub 13 through the outlet 180.

[0098] FIG. 6 illustrates a network of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 6, the dishwasher 1 may include a communication module capable of communicating with another appliance (e.g., such as a home appliance 4), a user device 2, or a server 3, a user interface device that receives a user input or outputs information to a user, at least one processor that controls an operation of the dishwasher 1, and at least one memory that stores a program for controlling the operation of the dishwasher 1.

[0100] The other appliance may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the other home appliance 4 may include a refrigerator 10, an electric range 11, an electric oven 12, an air conditioner 13, a clothes treating apparatus 14, a washing machine 15, a dryer 16, and a microwave oven 17, but is not limited thereto. For example, the other appliance may include various types of appliances not shown in the drawings, such as a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, a television, and the like. Furthermore, the aforementioned home appliances are by way of example only.

[0101] The server 3 may include a communication module communicating with another server, the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4, at least one processor that processes data received from another server, the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4, and at least one memory that stores programs for processing data or processed data. The server 3 may be implemented as a variety of computing devices, such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, a data station, and the like. The server 3 may be implemented as one or more server physically or logically separated based on a function, detailed configuration of function, or data, and may transmit and receive data through communication between servers and process the transmitted and received data.

[0102] The server 3 may perform functions, such as managing a user account, registering the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 in association with the user account, managing or controlling the registered dishwasher 1 and the other home appliance 4. For example, a user may access the server 3 via the user device 2 and may create a user account. The user account may be identified by an identifier (ID) and a password set by the user. The server 3 may register the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 with the user account according to a predetermined procedure. For example, the server 3 may link identification information of the dishwasher 1 (e.g., a serial number or MAC address) to the user account to register, manage, and control the dishwasher 1. Likewise, the server 3 may register the user device 2 and the other home appliance 4 with the user account to control the user device 2 and the other home appliance 4.

[0103] The server 3 may receive various information from the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 registered with the user account.

[0104] The user device 2 may include a communication module capable of communicating with the dishwasher 1, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4, a user interface device that receives a user input or outputs information to a user, at least one processor that controls an operation of the user device 2, and at least one memory that stores a program for controlling the operation of the user device 2.

[0105] The user device 2 may be carried by a user, or placed in a user's home or office, or the like. The user device 2 may include a personal computer (PC), a terminal, a portable telephone, a smartphone, a handheld device, a wearable device, and the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0106] The memory of the user device 2 may store a program for controlling the dishwasher 1, i.e., an application. The application may be sold installed on the user device 2, or may be downloaded from an external server for installation.

[0107] By running the application installed on the user device 2 by a user, the user may access the server 3, create a user account, and communicate with the server 3 based on the login user account to register the dishwasher 1.

[0108] For example, by operating the dishwasher 1 to allow the dishwasher 1 to access the server 3 according to a procedure guided by the application installed on the user device 2, the server 3 may register the dishwasher 1 with the user account by assigning the identification information (e.g., a serial number or a MAC address) of the dishwasher 1 to the corresponding user account. The home appliance 4 may also be registered with a user account in the same manner. The information required to register a device, such as the home appliance 4, with a user account may include other information for identifying the device in addition to the device's serial number or MAC address.

[0109] A user may control the dishwasher 1 using the application installed on the user device 2. For example, by logging into a user account with the application installed on the user device 2, the dishwasher 1 registered in the user account appears, and by inputting a control command for the dishwasher 1, the control command may be delivered to the dishwasher 1 via the server 3.

[0110] A network may include both a wired network and a wireless network. The wired network may include a cable network or a telephone network, and the wireless network may include any networks transmitting and receiving a signal via radio waves. The wired network and the wireless network may be interconnected.

[0111] The network may include a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN) formed around an access point (AP), and a short-range wireless network that does not use an AP. The short-range wireless network may include Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, near field communication (NFC), and Z-Wave, but is not limited thereto.

[0112] The AP may connect the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 to a WAN connected to the server 3. The dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 may be connected to the server 3 via a WAN.

[0113] The AP may communicate with the dishwasher 1 or the user device 2 using wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and the like, and access a WAN using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0114] According to various embodiments, the dishwasher 1 may be directly connected to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 without going through an AP.

[0115] The dishwasher 1 may be connected to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 via a long-range wireless network or a short-range wireless network.

[0116] For example, the dishwasher 1 may be connected to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0117] In another example, the dishwasher 1 may be connected to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 via a WAN using a long-range wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0118] In still another example, the dishwasher 1 may access a WAN using wired communication, and may be connected to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 via a WAN.

[0119] When accessing a WAN using wired communication, the dishwasher 1 may also act as an AP. Accordingly, the dishwasher 1 may connect the other home appliance 4 to a WAN to which the server 3 is connected. In addition, the other home appliance 4 may connect the dishwasher 1 to the WAN to which the server 3 is connected.

[0120] The dishwasher 1 may transmit information about an operation or state to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 via the network. For example, the dishwasher 1 may transmit information about an operation or state to the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 upon receiving a request from the server 3, in response to an event in the dishwasher 1, or periodically or in real time. Upon receiving the information about the operation or state from the dishwasher 1, the server 3 may update the stored information about the operation or state of the dishwasher 1 and transmit the updated information about the operation and state of the dishwasher 1 to the user device 2 via the network. Here, updating the information may include various operations in which existing information is changed, such as adding new information to the existing information, replacing the existing information with new information, and the like.

[0121] The dishwasher 1 may obtain various information from the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4. For example, the dishwasher 1 may obtain information related to a function of the dishwasher 1 (e.g., playback audio information, etc.), various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.), and environmental information of the other home appliance 4 from the server 3.

[0122] The dishwasher 1 may operate in accordance with a control command received from the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4. For example, the dishwasher 1 may operate in accordance with a control command received from the server 3, based on a prior authorization obtained from a user to operate in accordance with the control command of the server 3 even without a user input. Here, the control command received from the server 3 may include a control command input by the user via the user device 2 or a control command based on preset conditions, but is not limited thereto.

[0123] The dishwasher 1, the user device 2, the server 3, and/or the other home appliance 4 may use techniques, such as artificial intelligence (AI) to determine a control command. For example, the server 3 may receive information about an operation, a state, or an environment of the dishwasher 1, information about an operation, a state, or an environment of the user device 2, or information about an operation, a state, or an environment of the other home appliance 4, and may process the received information using techniques, such as AI, and may transmit a processing result or a control command to the dishwasher 1, the user device 2, and/or the other home appliance 4 based on the processing result.

[0124] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 7, the dishwasher 1 may include the controller 500 that performs overall control.

[0126] The controller 500 may be electrically connected to the sump 40, the drying device 100, the door operator 300, a user interface device 200, and communication circuitry 400.

[0127] The controller 500 may include a memory 510 and a processor 520. In addition to the devices mentioned in FIG. 7, the controller 500 may control electrically connected other devices of the dishwasher 1. The components of the dishwasher 1 are not limited to the above-described examples, and some of the aforementioned components may be omitted or other components may be added.

[0128] The controller 500 may be provided in the main body 10, and the user interface device 200 may be provided on the door 20. The positions of the controller 500 and the user interface device 200 are not limited to the above examples and may vary.

[0129] The memory 510 may store or record various information required for operation of the dishwasher 1. The memory 510 may store instructions, applications, data, and/or programs required for operation of the dishwasher 1. The memory 510 may include volatile memory such as static random access memory (S-RAM) or dynamic random access memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. The memory 540 may also include non-volatile memory such as read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), or electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) for long-term data storage.

[0130] The processor 520 may generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the dishwasher 1 based on the instructions, applications, data, and/or programs stored in the memory 510. The processor 520 may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits in hardware. The processor 520 may process data according to the programs and/or instructions provided by the memory 510, and may generate a control signal according to the processing result. The memory 510 and the processor 520 may be implemented as a single control circuit or a plurality of circuits.

[0131] The user interface device 200 may include an output interface and an input interface. The output interface may display information about a state and/or operation of the dishwasher 1. The output interface may display information input by a user or provided to a user in various screens. The output interface may display at least one of an image or text related to operation of the dishwasher 1. In addition, the output interface may display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables controlling the dishwasher 1. In other words, the output interface may display user interface (UI) elements such as icons.

[0132] The output interface may include various types of display panels. For example, the output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, or a micro-LED panel. The output interface may also be implemented as a touch display.

[0133] The input interface may output an electrical signal (voltage or current) corresponding to user input to the processor 520. The input interface may include various buttons, and may include a dial. In a case where the output interface is a touch display, a separate input interface may be omitted. For example, the user interface device may obtain various user inputs, such as turning the dishwasher 1 on or off, or selecting a washing course for the dishwasher 1.

[0134] The communication circuitry 400 may include at least one communication module. A communication module may establish a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channels between external devices, and support the performance of communication via the established channel. According to an embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network such as a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0135] The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an IrDA communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0136] The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include mobile communication circuitry. The mobile communication circuitry may transmit and receive radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server in a mobile communication network.

[0137] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a washing course of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 8, the dishwasher 1 may receive a selection of a washing course from a user (1000). A plurality of washing courses for operating the dishwasher 1 may be provided. For example, various washing courses, such as an automatic washing course, a standard washing course, an intensive washing course, a glassware washing course, a rapid washing course, a self-clean course, a downloadable washing course, and the like, may be provided. Depending on the type of washing course, a washing sequence, water consumption, washing temperature, and/or washing time may vary. The number and/or type of processes included in each washing course may be different. The user may select a washing course using the user interface device 200.

[0139] A washing course may include at least one process. For example, a standard washing course may include a preliminary washing process, a main washing process, a rinsing process, and a drying process. The preliminary washing process, the main washing process, the rinsing process, and the drying process may be performed sequentially. As the standard washing course is selected, the time for each process may be determined automatically. For example, a total drying time of the drying process may be determined automatically. The user may also input an operating time of each process using the user interface device 200.

[0140] In an embodiment, the dishwasher 1 may perform a preliminary washing process 1100.

[0141] In the preliminary washing process, washing water is sprayed onto dishes to first remove foreign substances adhered to the dishes. The preliminary washing process may be a process that sprays washing water without detergent into the washing chamber 14 before the main washing process in order to remove relatively large contaminants on the dishes.

[0142] In an embodiment, after performing the preliminary washing process 1100, the dishwasher 1 may perform a main washing process 1200.

[0143] In the main washing process, heated washing water is sprayed at high pressure onto the dishes. The main washing process may include a washing water supply operation 1210 for supplying washing water used for washing to the sump 40, a washing water spray operation 1220 for spraying washing water with detergent or heated washing water through the sprayer 70, and a washing water drain operation 1230 for draining washing water stored in the sump 40 and/or the sprayer 70.

[0144] In an embodiment, after performing the main washing process 1200, the dishwasher 1 may perform a rinsing process 1300. The rinsing process is a process of spraying heated washing water onto the dishes in order to remove foreign substances remaining on the dishes. The rinsing process 1300 may include a rinsing water supply operation 1310 for supplying rinsing water, which is used for rinsing, to the sump 40, a rinsing water spray operation 1320 for spraying rinsing water stored in the sump 40 or heating and spraying the rinsing water through the sprayer 70, and a rinsing water drain operation 1330 for draining rinsing water stored in the sump 40 and/or the sprayer 70.

[0145] In the rinsing water spray operation 1320, rinsing water may be sprayed into the washing chamber 20 multiple times.

[0146] In a case where a rinsing water temperature is high, the dishes may be heated in the rinsing process 1300, and after the rinsing process 1300 ends, the dishes may be dried efficiently by latent heat of the dishes.

[0147] In an embodiment, a temperature of the rinsing water sprayed into the washing chamber 14 in the rinsing process 1300 may be higher than that of the washing water sprayed into the washing chamber 14 in the main washing process 1200 and/or the preliminary washing process 1100.

[0148] According to various embodiments, the temperature of the rinsing water used in the last rinsing water spray operation of the rinsing water spray operation 1320 may be higher than the temperature of the rinsing water used in the previous rinsing water spray operation.

[0149] In an embodiment, after performing the rinsing process 1300, the dishwasher 1 may perform a drying process 1400.

[0150] In the drying process 1400, heated air may be supplied into the tub 13 to dry the dishes. The drying process 1400 is a process of drying the dishes by circulating air in the washing chamber 14 and supplying hot air into the washing chamber 14 using the drying device 100.

[0151] In an embodiment, after performing the drying process 1400, the dishwasher 1 may perform a cooling process 1500.

[0152] The cooling process 1500 is a process of lowering the temperature inside the washing chamber 14 to prevent safety accidents, and may be performed using the drying device 100.

[0153] According to various embodiments, the cooling process 1500 may be defined as a part of the drying process 1400. The types of processes are not limited to the examples described above.

[0154] The controller 500 may control the sump 40 to allow heated washing water to be supplied into the tub 13 in the rinsing process 1300. When the rinsing process 1300 starts, the controller 500 may operate the washing pump 41, a washing water heater 42, and the drain pump 43 of the sump 40. Once the sump 40 operates, washing water heated by the washing water heater 42 may be pumped to the sprayer 70 by the washing pump 41 and sprayed into the tub 13.

[0155] After completion of the rinsing process 1300, the controller 500 may perform the drying process 1400. The controller 500 may control the drying device 100 to supply air, heated in the drying process 1400, to the tub 13. Once the drying process 1400 starts, the controller 500 may operate the driving fan 130 and the heater 150 of the drying device 100. Once the drying device 100 operates, air in the tub 13 may circulate between the drying device 100 and the tub 13. Air in the tub 13 may flow into the drying device 100 and then be heated, and the heated air may be supplied back into the tub 13. The heated air discharged from the drying device 100 may dry the dishes in the tub 13.

[0156] Meanwhile, a drying performance of the dishwasher is affected by an external humidity of a place where the dishwasher is installed. In a highly humid environment, dishes may remain incompletely dried, while in a dry environment, dishes that are already dry may be unnecessarily dried, causing longer drying time and higher energy consumption.

[0157] To improve a drying performance, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may receive external humidity information detected by another home appliance 4 in a home, may change setting information of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of washing course based on the external humidity information, and may control an operation of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course based on the changed setting information.

[0158] Accordingly, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may maintain a drying performance regardless of an external environment. In a case where an external humidity is high, the dishwasher 1 may intensify a rinsing operation in the rinsing process 1300 and a drying operation in the drying process 1400, compared to a normal operation of each process of the washing course. As a result, more moisture may be removed, thereby improving a drying performance. In a case where an external humidity is low, the dishwasher 1 may weaken the rinsing operation and the drying operation, compared to a normal operation, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0159] In addition, because the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may use a temperature/humidity sensor installed in the other home appliance 4 in the home, an external temperature/humidity sensor is not required to be mounted to the dishwasher 1. Accordingly, structural complexity may be reduced, and material costs may be reduced.

[0160] FIG. 9 illustrates a user interface device for receiving a washing course selection in a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 illustrates that a washing course is selected through FIG. 9.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 9, the user interface device 200 may include a power button 2100 for operating the dishwasher 1, a washing course selection portion 2200 for receiving a washing course selection, an option selection portion 2300 for additional settings, a display 2400 for displaying information related to the dishwasher 1, a reservation button 2500 for scheduling a wash, and a washing start button 2600.

[0162] The display 2400 may display information such as an estimated washing time, a remaining washing time, a washing course, and the like.

[0163] The washing course selection portion 2200 may include a plurality of washing course selection buttons for receiving a washing course selection. The dishwasher 1 may perform dishwashing according to the selected washing course. For example, the dishwasher 1 may determine a washing sequence, water consumption, washing temperature, and/or washing time according to the type of washing course.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 10, the washing course selection portion 2200 may include an automatic washing button 2210 for an automatic washing course in which the dishwasher 1 automatically detects the degree of dish contamination and automatically sets a washing time and temperature, a standard washing button 2220 for inputting a standard washing course used for washing dishes after a general meal, an intensive washing button 2230 for inputting an intensive washing course suitable for washing dishes with dried food particles, heavily soiled dishes and pots, or greasy dishes, a glassware washing button 2240 for inputting a glassware washing course suitable for heat-sensitive plastics or fragile glassware, a rapid washing button 2250 for inputting a rapid washing course suitable for a quick wash after a general meal, a self-clean washing button 2260 for inputting a self-clean course used to clean the inside of the dishwasher 1, and a download washing button 2270 for inputting a downloadable washing course via a smartphone in addition to the default washing courses.

[0165] The downloadable washing courses may include a low-noise/night mode washing course, a pots-and-pans washing course, a plastic container washing course, a baby bottle sanitizing washing course, or a dry-only course.

[0166] In addition, the washing course selection portion 2200 may further include an indicator 2280 to display the selected washing course.

[0167] The indicator 2280 may be formed integrally with washing course selection buttons to display the washing course selected by a user. Also, the indicator 2280 may adopt a light emitting device, such as an LED lamp, and thus when a washing course button is input (selected), the light emitting device may light or blink to indicate the selected washing course.

[0168] A user may input a washing course button included in the washing course selection portion 2200 to select a desired washing course.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 10, the user may input the standard washing button 2220 to select the standard washing course. The dishwasher 1 may illuminate the indicator 2280 of the input standard washing button 2220 to indicate the selected washing course. Thus, the completion of the washing course selection may be indicated.

[0170] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 11, the controller 500 may receive external humidity information detected by another home appliance 4 in a home through the communication circuitry 400 (3000).

[0172] In an embodiment, external humidity information may include a humidity outside the dishwasher 1 or a humidity outside the other home appliance 4 in the home. The external humidity information may include a humidity in the home where the dishwasher 1 and the home appliance 4 are located. In an embodiment, the external humidity information may include an external temperature and an external relative humidity of the dishwasher 1 or the other home appliance 4 in the home. The external humidity information may include a temperature and a relative humidity in the home where the dishwasher 1 and the home appliance 4 are located. The external humidity information may include an absolute humidity. The absolute humidity may be obtained from the temperature and the relative humidity of the home where the dishwasher 1 and the home appliance 4 are located.

[0173] In an embodiment, the controller 500 may communicate with the server 3 through the communication circuitry 400, and receive the external humidity information detected by the other home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3.

[0174] The other home appliance 4 in the home may include home appliances registered with a user account other than the dishwasher 1 of the disclosure.

[0175] When the dishwasher 1 is turned on or a rinsing process or drying process starts, the controller 500 may receive the external humidity information detected by the other home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3. The controller 500 may also periodically receive the external humidity information detected by the other home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3.

[0176] In addition, the controller 500 may cumulatively store the external humidity information received from the server 3, and may request external humidity information from the server 3 based on changes in the external humidity information, and then receive the requested information. For example, in a case where the cumulatively stored external humidity has changed above a predetermined change rate, the controller 500 may request the external humidity information detected by the other home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3.

[0177] In addition, the controller 500 may determine a time to request the external humidity information. For example, the controller 500 may request and receive the external humidity information at a power-on time of the dishwasher 1 or a drying process start time.

[0178] According to various embodiments, the controller 500 may communicate directly with the other home appliance 4 in the home through the communication circuitry 400, and directly receive the external humidity information from the other home appliance 4 in the home.

[0179] The controller 500 may receive the external humidity information from the other home appliance 4 in the home, in a case where the dishwasher 1 is turned on, or the rinsing process 1300 starts, or the drying process 1400 starts.

[0180] The controller 500 may change setting information of a process of the washing course set in the dishwasher 1 based on the external humidity information (3100). In this instance, the controller 500 may determine an average external humidity from the cumulatively stored external humidity and may change the setting information of the process based on the average external humidity. In addition, the controller 500 may change the setting information of the process of the washing course based on an external humidity at a corresponding time.

[0181] The process may include the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course.

[0182] The controller 500 may change a rinsing setting value of the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course based on the external humidity information. For example, the controller 500 may change a temperature of washing water in the rinsing process 1300.

[0183] The controller 500 may change a drying setting value of the drying process 1400 of the washing course. For example, the controller 500 may change a heater operating time, a fan operating time, a door opening time, a door opening frequency, and the like during the drying process 1400.

[0184] The controller 500 may control an operation of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course based on the changed rinsing setting value and/or the changed drying setting value (3200). The controller 500 may control the sump 40 and the drying device 50 to control the operation of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course based on the changed rinsing setting value and/or the changed drying setting value.

[0185] The controller 500 may control the sump 40 based on the changed setting information of the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course set in the dishwasher 1. For example, the controller 500 may adjust a washing water temperature of the rinsing process 1300 to a changed washing water temperature instead of a normal washing water temperature. To this end, the controller 500 may control the washing water heater 42 of the sump 40 in the rinsing process 1300.

[0186] The controller 500 may control the drying device 100 based on the changed setting information of the drying process 1400 of the washing course set in the dishwasher 1. For example, the controller 500 may adjust a heater operating time, a fan operating time, a door opening time, a door opening frequency, etc., of the drying process 1400 to changed values instead of set values.

[0187] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment in more detail.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 12, the controller 500 may receive external humidity information detected by a home appliance 4 in a home (4000).

[0189] The controller 500 may receive the external humidity information of the home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3 via the communication circuitry 400. The home appliance 4 is registered with a user account. The controller 500 may continuously receive the external humidity information until a rinsing process starts.

[0190] As the dishwasher 1 starts operating, the controller 500 may perform the washing processes 1100 and 1200 in the washing course set in the dishwasher 1 (4002).

[0191] The controller 500 may determine whether the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course has started after performing the washing processes 1100 and 1200 of the washing course (4004).

[0192] In a case where the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course has started (Yes in operation 4004), the controller 500 may compare an external humidity with a first humidity to determine whether the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity (4006). For example, the external humidity and the first humidity may be a relative humidity. The first humidity value may be 60% relative humidity.

[0193] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity (Yes in operation 4006), the controller 500 may increase a washing water temperature above a normal washing water temperature in the rinsing process 1300 (4008). In other words, in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a highly humid environment, by increasing the washing water temperature above a normal value (set value) of the washing course, dishes may be dried efficiently by latent heat after the rinsing process 1300 ends. As a result, a drying performance may be maintained.

[0194] In a case where the external humidity is not greater than or equal to the first humidity (No in operation 4006), the controller 500 may compare the external humidity with a second humidity to determine whether the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity (4010). For example, the external humidity and the second humidity may be a relative humidity. The second humidity value may be less than the first humidity value. The second humidity value may be 50% relative humidity.

[0195] In a case where the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity (Yes in operation 4010), the controller 500 may decrease the washing water temperature below the normal washing water temperature (4012). In other words, in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a dry environment, the washing water temperature may be decreased below the normal value to reduce unnecessary rinsing operation. As a result, energy consumption may be reduced.

[0196] In a case where the external humidity exceeds the second humidity (No in operation 4010), the controller 500 may maintain the washing water temperature at the normal value (4014). For example, in a case where the external humidity is greater than 50% but less than 60%, the washing water temperature may remain at the normal value with no change.

[0197] The controller 500 may determine whether the drying process 1400 of the washing course has started after the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course is completed (4016).

[0198] As the drying process 1400 of the washing course starts, the controller 500 may compare the external humidity with the first humidity to determine whether the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity (4018). The controller 500 may receive external humidity information of the home appliance 4 in the home from the server 3 when the drying process 1400 starts. The controller 500 may also continuously receive the external humidity information until the drying process starts. For example, the first humidity value may be 60% relative humidity.

[0199] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity (Yes in operation 4018), the controller 500 may increase a drying operation of the washing course above a normal drying operation of the drying process 1400 (4020), and may increase a door opening time and door opening frequency above a normal value (4022). In this instance, the controller 500 may increase a heater operating time and a fan operating time in the drying process 1400 above a normal value in order to increase the drying operation, and may increase the door opening time and door opening frequency above the normal value. The heater operating time of the drying process 1400 may be an operating time of the heater 150 of the drying device 100. The fan operating time may be an operating time of the driving fan 130 of the drying device 100. The door opening time and door opening frequency may be an opening time and opening frequency of the door 20 operated by the door operator 300. In other words, in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a highly humid environment, the drying operation may be intensified by heating the air supplied into the tub 13 more, causing the air to flow faster, and increasing the volume of air discharged from the tub 13. As a result, a drying performance may be maintained.

[0200] In a case where the external humidity is not greater than or equal to the first humidity (No in operation 4018), the controller 500 may compare the external humidity with the second humidity to determine whether the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity (4024). For example, the second humidity value may be 50% relative humidity.

[0201] In a case where the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity (Yes in operation 4024), the controller 500 may reduce the drying operation of the washing course below the normal drying operation (4026). In this instance, the controller 500 may decrease the heater operating time and the fan operating time in the drying process 1400 below the normal value in order to reduce the drying operation, and may reduce the door opening time and door opening frequency below the normal value. In other words, in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a dry environment, by heating the air supplied into the tub 13 at a lower temperature, causing the air to flow more slowly, and reducing the volume of air discharged from the tub 13, energy consumption may be reduced while maintaining drying performance.

[0202] In a case where the external humidity exceeds the second humidity (No in operation 4024), the controller 500 may maintain the drying operation of the washing course at the normal drying operation (4028).

[0203] The controller 500 may end the drying process 1400 based on a predetermined drying completion condition being satisfied (4030). For example, a predetermined drying completion condition may be determined based on completion of the drying operation, elapse of the door opening time, or the door opening frequency being reached.

[0204] Although applying a relative humidity has been described in the above embodiment, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and an absolute humidity may also be applied.

[0205] Referring again to FIG. 10, the dishwasher 1 may further include an internal humidity sensor 410.

[0206] The internal humidity sensor 410 may be provided in the tub 13 or the door 20 to detect a humidity inside the tub 13.

[0207] The internal humidity sensor 410 may be electrically connected to the controller 500.

[0208] The controller 500 may receive a detection signal detected by the internal humidity sensor 410 and obtain the humidity inside the tub 13.

[0209] FIG. 13 is a graph illustrating changes in external humidity and internal tub humidity before and after a drying process of a washing course in a case where an external environment of a dishwasher according to an embodiment is highly humid.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 13, at a time t1, power may be supplied to the dishwasher 1

[0211] Between t1 and t2, the washing processes 1100 and 1200 and the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course set in the dishwasher 1 may be performed.

[0212] At a time t2, the rinsing process 1300 may be completed, and the drying process 1400 may start.

[0213] When the drying process 1400 of the washing course starts, the controller 500 may determine whether an external humidity detected by a home appliance 4 in a home is greater than or equal to a first humidity. For example, the first humidity value may be 60% relative humidity.

[0214] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity, the controller 500 may perform an intensified drying operation through the drying device 100. The intensified drying operation may include at least one of increasing a heater operating time and a fan operating time of the drying process 1400 above a normal value, or increasing a door opening time and a door opening frequency above a normal value.

[0215] First, the controller 500 may turn on the driving fan 130 and the heater 150 of the drying device 100 for a predetermined time, thereby heating the air and supplying the heated air into the tub 13. Air in the tub 13 may lose some heat while flowing into the drying device 100, and a temperature of the air supplied into the tub 13 from the drying device 100 is lower than a temperature of washing water used in the rinsing process. Accordingly, the temperature of the air circulating between the tub 13 and the drying device 100 may slowly begin to decrease, and humidity in the tub may also begin to decrease slowly.

[0216] In addition, by controlling an opening and closing operation of the door 20 through the door operator 300, the controller 500 may open the door 20 with a predetermined opening time and a predetermined opening frequency. For example, the door 20 may be opened at a time t3. By opening the door 20, steam inside the tub 13 may be discharged to the outside. The opening of the door 20 may reduce humidity in the tub.

[0217] The heater 150 of the drying device 100 may operate continuously during the drying process. However, the controller 500 may stop operation of the heater 150 in a case where the door 20 is opened. The driving fan 130 may continue operating during the drying process 1400.

[0218] Meanwhile, after completing the intensified drying operation, the controller 500 may compare an external humidity and an internal humidity detected by the internal humidity sensor 410 to determine whether the internal humidity is lower than the external humidity by a preset value (RH %, for example 5%). According to various embodiments, in a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity after completion of the intensified drying operation, the controller 500 may determine whether the internal humidity is lower than the external humidity by the preset value (e.g., 5%).

[0219] In a case where the internal humidity is not lower than the external humidity by the preset value (e.g., 5%), the controller 500 may perform an additional drying operation at a time t4. The additional drying operation may include at least one of additionally increasing the operating time of the heater 150 and the operating time of the driving fan 130, or additionally increasing the door opening time and the door opening frequency.

[0220] In a case where the internal humidity becomes lower than the external humidity by the preset value due to the additional drying operation, the controller 500 may end the drying process 1400 at a time t5.

[0221] FIG. 14 is a graph illustrating changes in external humidity and internal tub humidity before and after a drying process of a washing course in a case where an external environment of a dishwasher according to an embodiment is dry.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 14, at a time t1, power may be supplied to the dishwasher 1.

[0223] Between t1 and t2, the washing processes 1100 and 1200 and the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course may be performed.

[0224] At a time t2, the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course may be completed, and the drying process 1400 may start.

[0225] When the drying process 1400 of the washing course starts, the controller 500 may determine whether an external humidity detected by a home appliance 4 in a home is less than or equal to a second humidity. For example, the second humidity value may be 50% relative humidity.

[0226] In a case where the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity, the controller 500 may perform an energy-saving operation through the drying device 100. The energy-saving operation may include at least one of reducing a heater operating time and a fan operating time of the drying process 1400 below a normal value, or reducing a door opening time and a door opening frequency below a normal value.

[0227] At a time t3, steam inside the tub 13 may be discharged to the outside by opening the door 20. The opening of the door 20 may reduce humidity inside the tub.

[0228] Meanwhile, while performing the energy-saving operation, the controller 500 may compare an external humidity and an internal humidity detected by the internal humidity sensor 410 to determine whether the internal humidity is lower than the external humidity by a preset value (RH %, for example 5%).

[0229] In a case where the internal humidity is at least the preset value (e.g., 5%) lower than the external humidity, the controller 500 may stop the remaining energy-saving operation at a time t4 and end the drying process 1400. Accordingly, the process shown by the dotted line may not be performed, reducing energy usage.

[0230] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may periodically receive external humidity information of the home appliance 4 in the home registered with a user account from the server 3 or the home appliance 4, or may request and receive the external humidity information from the server 3 or the home appliance 4 at a specific time (e.g., at a power-on time or a drying process start time). In addition, in a case where a change rate of the detected external humidity is drastic, the home appliance 4 in the home may transmit the external humidity information to the dishwasher 1 directly or via the server 3.

[0231] The external humidity information may include point-in-time information when the home appliance 4 in the home detected the external humidity or point-in-time information when the external humidity information was uploaded, in order to exclude data collected too long ago, i.e., relatively less reliable data.

[0232] Not all the external humidity information from home appliances 4 in the home may have equal importance for changing the process settings of the dishwasher 1. The external humidity information required by the dishwasher 1 for changing the process settings may have different priorities depending on product characteristics of the home appliance 4.

[0233] Only external humidity information of a home appliance 4 in the home that is highly relevant to the dishwasher 1 may be used to change the process settings of the washing course in the dishwasher 1.

[0234] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which a dishwasher according to an embodiment determines a target home appliance to receive external humidity information among other home appliances.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 15, the controller 500 may receive identification information of home appliances 4 in a home registered with a user account through the communication circuitry 400 (5000). For example, the identification information of the home appliance 4 may include product-specific information such as a serial number or a MAC address. In addition, the identification information may include location information in the home. The location information in the home may include distance information indicating a relative distance from the dishwasher 1.

[0236] The controller 500 may determine a target home appliance among the home appliances 4 in the home based on the identification information of the home appliances 4 (5100).

[0237] The controller 500 may determine the home appliance 4 that is highly relevant to the dishwasher 1 as the target home appliance based on the identification information of the home appliances 4 in the home.

[0238] For example, in a case where the home appliances 4 in the home are the refrigerator 10, the air conditioner 13, the washing machine 15, and the dryer 16, the controller 500 may assign higher priority to the refrigerator 10 that is more likely to be located in the same kitchen as the dishwasher 1, compared to the air conditioner 13, the washing machine 15, and the dryer 16, which are relatively likely to be in another space. The controller 500 may then determine the refrigerator 10, which is highly relevant to the dishwasher 1, to be the target home appliance. In addition, the controller 500 may determine the home appliance 4 in the home that is closest in relative position to the dishwasher 1 as the target home appliance.

[0239] The controller 500 may receive external humidity information detected by the target home appliance through the communication circuitry 400 (5200).

[0240] The controller 500 may change setting information of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course set in the dishwasher 1 based on the external humidity information detected by the target home appliance (5300).

[0241] The controller 500 may change a rinsing setting value of the rinsing process 1300 of the washing course based on the external humidity information. For example, a washing water temperature in the rinsing process 1300 may be changed.

[0242] The controller 500 may change a drying setting value of the drying process 1400 of the washing course. For example, the controller 500 may change a heater operating time, a fan operating time, a door opening time, and a door opening frequency, etc., in the drying process 1400.

[0243] The controller 500 may control operation of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course based on the changed setting information of the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 (5400). The controller 500 may control the sump 40 and the drying device 50 to control the rinsing process 1300 and/or the drying process 1400 of the washing course.

[0244] FIG. 16 is a graph illustrating a relationship between an external humidity and temperatures of rinsing process/drying process of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 16, the horizontal axis of the graph indicates an external humidity, and the vertical axis indicates a temperature of the rinsing process or drying process.

[0246] In a case where the external humidity is within a reference humidity range (between a second humidity H2 and a first humidity H1), the temperature of the rinsing process or drying process may be maintained at a reference temperature Tref. The reference temperature Tref may be a set temperature of the rinsing process or a set temperature of the drying process.

[0247] For example, in a case where a second humidity value is 50% and a first humidity value is 60%, and when the external humidity is between 50% and 60%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be maintained at the reference temperature Tref which is the set temperature.

[0248] In a case where the external humidity is less than or equal to the second humidity H2, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be reduced to a second temperature T2 lower than the reference temperature Tref. For example, in a case where the external humidity is less than 50%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be reduced below the set temperature.

[0249] In a case where the external humidity is between the first humidity H1 and a third humidity H3, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased to a first temperature T1 higher than the reference temperature Tref.

[0250] For example, in a case where the third humidity value is 80% and the external humidity is between 60% and 80%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased above the reference temperature Tref.

[0251] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased to the third temperature T3, which is higher than the first temperature T1. For example, in a case where the external humidity is higher than 80%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased above the reference temperature Tref.

[0252] As such, in a case where the external humidity is higher than a reference humidity range, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be gradually increased above the set temperature value as the external humidity becomes higher.

[0253] FIG. 17 is a graph illustrating relationships among an external humidity, temperatures of rinsing process/drying process of a dishwasher according to an embodiment, and time.

[0254] Referring to FIG. 17, the horizontal axis indicates an external humidity, the left vertical axis indicates a temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process, and the right vertical axis indicates a rinsing time of the rinsing process or a drying time of the drying process.

[0255] In a case where an external humidity is between a first humidity H1 and a third humidity H3, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased to a first temperature T1 higher than a reference temperature Tref, and the rinsing time of the rinsing process or the drying time of the drying process may be increased to a first time t1 longer than a reference time tref.

[0256] For example, in a case where the third humidity value is 80% and the external humidity is between 60% and 80%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased above the set reference temperature Tref, and the rinsing time and the drying time may be increased above the reference time tref which is set time.

[0257] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased to a third temperature T3 higher than the first temperature T1, and the rinsing time of the rinsing process or the drying time of the drying process may be increased to a third time t3 longer than the first time t1.

[0258] For example, in a case where the external humidity is higher than 80%, the temperature of the rinsing process or the drying process may be increased more above the reference temperature Tref, and the rinsing time of the rinsing process or the drying time of the drying process may be increased more above the reference time tref.

[0259] As such, in a case where the external humidity is higher than a reference humidity range, the temperature and the time of the rinsing process or the drying process may be gradually increased above the set values as the external humidity becomes higher.

[0260] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of changing setting values of a rinsing process/drying process based on an external humidity of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0261] Referring to FIG. 18, in a case where an external humidity is from a first humidity H1 to a third humidity H3, a washing water temperature in a rinsing process may be increased above a reference temperature Tref which is a set temperature value for the rinsing process.

[0262] In a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3, the washing water temperature in the rinsing process and a rinsing time may increase. In other words, as the external humidity increases, both the washing water temperature and the rinsing time may be increased, and thus even in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a highly humid environment, the dishes may be dried efficiently by latent heat of the more heated dishes after the rinsing process ends. As a result, a drying performance may be maintained. In this instance, a temperature level of washing water in a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3 may be equal to a temperature level of washing water in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 (i.e., level 1).

[0263] In the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3, a drying temperature in a drying process may be increased above the reference temperature Tref set for the drying process.

[0264] In the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3, the drying temperature in the drying process and a drying time may increase. In other words, as the external humidity increases, not only the drying temperature but also the drying time may be increased, and thus even in a case where the dishwasher 1 is installed in a highly humid environment, the air supplied into the tub 13 may be heated more and flow faster. As a result, a drying performance may be maintained. In this instance, a temperature level of the drying temperature in a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3 may be equal to a temperature level of the drying temperature in a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 (i.e., level 1).

[0265] FIG. 19 illustrates another example of changing setting values of a rinsing process/drying process based on an external humidity of a dishwasher according to an embodiment.

[0266] Referring to FIG. 19, a washing water temperature in a rinsing process in a case where an external humidity is greater than or equal to a third humidity H3 may be higher than a washing water temperature of a rinsing process in a case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to a first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3.

[0267] A temperature level of the washing water temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 may be higher than a temperature level of the washing water temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3.

[0268] For example, when the temperature level of the washing water temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3 is level 1, the temperature level of the washing water temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 may be level 2 higher than level 1.

[0269] In addition, a drying temperature in a drying process in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 may be higher than a drying temperature in the drying process in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3.

[0270] A temperature level of the drying temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the third humidity H3 may be higher than a temperature level of the drying temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3.

[0271] For example, when the temperature level of the drying temperature in the case where the external humidity is greater than or equal to the first humidity H1 but less than the third humidity H3 is level 1, a temperature level of the drying temperature may be level 2 higher than level 1.

[0272] The dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may maintain a drying performance regardless of an external environment. In a case where an external humidity is high, by intensifying a rinsing operation of the rinsing process 1300 and a drying operation of the drying process 1400 of the washing course compared to each normal operation, more moisture may be discharged. As a result, a drying performance may be improved. In a case where the external humidity is low, by weakening the rinsing operation of the rinsing process 1300 and the drying operation of the drying process 1400 compared to each normal operation, power consumption may be reduced.

[0273] In addition, the dishwasher 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may use a temperature/humidity sensor installed in another home appliance 4 in the home, and thus an external temperature/humidity sensor is not required to be mounted on the dishwasher 1. Accordingly, structural complexity and material costs may be reduced.

[0274] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a dishwasher may include: a user interface device; communication circuitry; and a controller configured to receive external humidity information detected by a home appliance in a home through the communication circuitry, change setting information related to an operation of at least one of a rinsing process or a drying process of a washing course, based on the external humidity information and the washing course input via the user interface device, and control the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process or the drying process of the washing course based on the changed setting information.

[0275] The controller may be configured to receive the external humidity information at at least one of a power-on time or a drying process start time of the dishwasher.

[0276] The controller may be configured to receive external humidity information detected by a home appliance in the home from a server through the communication circuitry, the home appliance being registered with a user account.

[0277] The controller may be configured to receive external humidity information detected by a home appliance in the home from the home appliance registered with a user account through the communication circuitry.

[0278] The controller may be configured to: receive identification information of a plurality of home appliances in the home through the communication circuitry, determine a target home appliance among the plurality of home appliances in the home based on the identification information of the plurality of home appliances, and receive external humidity information detected by the target home appliance.

[0279] The identification information may include information about a relative distance to the dishwasher.

[0280] The controller may be configured to change a temperature of a washing water based on the external humidity information in the rinsing process of the washing course.

[0281] The controller may be configured to increase the temperature of the washing water based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the rinsing process of the washing course, and decrease the temperature of the washing water based on the external humidity being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity.

[0282] The dishwasher may further include a drying device configured to supply heated air into a tub, wherein the drying device may include: a fan configured to circulate air; and a heater configured to heat air flowing into the drying device, and the controller may be configured to change an operating time of the heater and an operating time of the fan based on the external humidity information in the drying process of the washing course.

[0283] The controller may be configured to increase the operating time of the heater and the operating time of the fan based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the drying process of the washing course, and decrease the operating time of the heater and the operating time of the fan based on the external humidity being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity.

[0284] The dishwasher may further include a door operator configured to drive a door configured to cover an opening of a tub, wherein the controller may be configured to increase an opening time and number of openings of the door based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the drying process of the washing course.

[0285] The dishwasher may further include an internal humidity sensor configured to detect an internal humidity of a tub, wherein the controller may be configured to perform an additional drying operation or stop an ongoing drying operation based on a difference between an external humidity and the internal humidity in the drying process of the washing course.

[0286] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a method for controlling a dishwasher may include: receiving a selection of a washing course via a user interface device; receiving external humidity information detected by a home appliance in a home through communication circuitry; changing setting information related to an operation of at least one of a rinsing process or a drying process of the washing course, based on the external humidity information and the washing course; and controlling the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process or the drying process of the washing course based on the changed setting information.

[0287] The receiving of the external humidity information may include: receiving external humidity information detected by a home appliance in the home from a server through the communication circuitry, the home appliance being registered with a user account, or receiving external humidity information detected by the home appliance in the home from the home appliance registered with the user account through the communication circuitry.

[0288] The receiving of the external humidity information may include: receiving identification information of a plurality of home appliances in the home through the communication circuitry, determining a target home appliance among the plurality of home appliances in the home based on the identification information of the plurality of home appliances, and receiving external humidity information detected by the target home appliance.

[0289] The changing of the setting information may include: increasing the temperature of the washing water based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the rinsing process of the washing course, and decreasing the temperature of the washing water based on the external humidity being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity.

[0290] The dishwasher may further include a drying device configured to supply heated air into a tub, wherein the drying device may include: a fan configured to circulate air; and a heater configured to heat air flowing into the drying device, and the changing of the setting information may include changing an operating time of the heater and an operating time of the fan based on the external humidity information in the drying process of the washing course.

[0291] The changing of the setting information may include increasing the operating time of the heater and the operating time of the fan based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the drying process of the washing course, and decreasing the operating time of the heater and the operating time of the fan based on the external humidity being less than or equal to a second humidity lower than the first humidity.

[0292] The changing of the setting information may include increasing an opening time and number of openings of a door configured to cover an opening of a tub, based on an external humidity being greater than or equal to a first humidity in the drying process of the washing course.

[0293] The dishwasher may further include an internal humidity sensor configured to detect an internal humidity of a tub, wherein the controlling of the operation of the at least one of the rinsing process or the drying process of the washing course may include performing an additional drying operation or stopping an ongoing drying operation based on a difference between an external humidity and the internal humidity in the drying process of the washing course.

[0294] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may create a program module to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0295] The machine-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, when a storage medium is referred to as non-transitory, it may be understood that the storage medium is tangible and does not include a signal (electromagnetic waves), but rather that data is semi-permanently or temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, a non-transitory storage medium may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0296] The methods according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed through an application store (e.g., Play Store) online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be stored at least semi-permanently or may be temporarily generated in a storage medium, such as a memory of a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a relay server.

[0297] Although embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, a person having ordinary skilled in the art will appreciate that other specific modifications may be easily made without departing from the technical spirit or essential features of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting in all aspects.