Sterilization and preservation devices and refrigerators

Abstract

This application provides a sterilization and preservation device and a refrigerator, comprising: a circulating air duct; a fan configured to drive air to flow within the circulating air duct; an inner liner having a storage cavity, an air inlet communicating with the storage cavity, and an air outlet; the circulating air duct communicating with the air inlet and the air outlet; wherein, when the fan is started, airflow enters the circulating air duct from the air inlet and enters the storage cavity from the air outlet; an infrared sterilization module disposed within the circulating air duct; and a magnetic field generating module disposed on the inner liner; the magnetic field generating module is configured to generate a pulsed magnetic field; wherein, in a high-efficiency sterilization mode, when the fan is started, the infrared sterilization module is turned on first, and the magnetic field generating module is turned on later or simultaneously with the infrared sterilization module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to a sterilization and preservation device and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Refrigerator preservation technology has evolved from low-temperature sterilization to sterilization. Low-temperature sterilization has limitations, so sterilization technology has gradually replaced it. Sterilization and preservation typically employ technologies such as ultraviolet (UV) light, ozone, photocatalysis, and plasma. However, existing sterilization and preservation technologies still have limitations and poor sterilization effects. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a sterilization and preservation device, which aims to solve the technical problem of poor sterilization effect in the prior art.

[0004] This application provides a sterilization and preservation device, including: Circulating air duct, A fan configured to drive air to flow within the circulating air duct; The inner liner has a storage cavity, an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the storage cavity; the circulating air duct is communicating with the air inlet and the air outlet; wherein, when the fan is started, the airflow enters the circulating air duct from the air inlet and enters the storage cavity from the air outlet; An infrared sterilization module is provided inside a circulating air duct. A magnetic field generating module is disposed on the inner liner; the magnetic field generating module is configured to generate a pulsed magnetic field; In the high-efficiency sterilization mode, when the fan starts, the infrared sterilization module is turned on first, and the magnetic field generating module is turned on later or simultaneously with the infrared sterilization module.

[0005] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes an ultraviolet sterilization module, which is located within the circulating air duct.

[0006] Optionally, the powerful sterilization mode includes a first powerful sterilization mode; In the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the infrared sterilization module runs for a first preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module and the magnetic field generating module jointly run for a second preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module and the magnetic field generating module are turned off and the ultraviolet sterilization module runs for a third preset duration, and then the ultraviolet sterilization module is turned off.

[0007] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the first high-efficiency sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: First instruction; The door of the sterilization and preservation device has been opened a preset number of times since the first powerful sterilization mode was last triggered. The humidity inside the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset humidity and remains at the first preset humidity for a certain period of time; The odor concentration in the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset concentration or the increase in odor concentration exceeds the preset increase value; The sterilization and preservation device has been running for a second set duration since it last exited the first high-efficiency sterilization mode.

[0008] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration air duct, wherein a damper is provided between the refrigeration air duct and the storage cavity, or between the refrigeration air duct and the circulation air duct; when the damper is open, the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity through the circulation air duct; when the damper is closed, the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the circulation air duct. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module is turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper opens.

[0009] Optionally, the powerful sterilization mode includes a second powerful sterilization mode; In the second powerful sterilization mode, the ultraviolet sterilization module, the infrared sterilization module, and the ultraviolet sterilization module all run simultaneously for a fourth preset time before shutting down.

[0010] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the second high-efficiency sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: Second instruction; The door of the sterilization and preservation device reaches a third set duration after the second running time following its closing. The sterilization and preservation device reaches a fourth set duration after the third running time since it last exited the second high-efficiency sterilization mode.

[0011] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration air duct, wherein a damper is provided between the refrigeration air duct and the storage cavity, or between the refrigeration air duct and the circulation air duct; when the damper is open, the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity through the circulation air duct; when the damper is closed, the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the circulation air duct. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module, the magnetic field generating module, and the infrared sterilization module are turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper opens.

[0012] Optionally, the sterilization and preservation device further includes an adsorption module, which is located in the circulating air duct and upstream of the infrared sterilization module in the airflow direction; or the adsorption module is located in the air inlet.

[0013] This application also proposes a refrigerator, which includes the sterilization and preservation device as described above; wherein the storage cavity is at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment, or variable temperature compartment of the refrigerator, or the sterilization and preservation device is installed in at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment, or variable temperature compartment of the refrigerator.

[0014] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the sterilization and preservation device includes an inner liner with a storage cavity for storing items that need to be preserved. The inner liner has an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the storage cavity, which are respectively connected to a circulating air duct; a fan is used to drive air to flow inside the circulating air duct, so that the air in the storage cavity can circulate through the circulating air duct. An infrared sterilization module is installed inside the circulating air duct, and a magnetic field generating module is installed on the inner liner. In the high-efficiency sterilization mode, the fan starts, and the infrared sterilization module and the magnetic field generating module start sequentially or simultaneously. This allows the air in the storage cavity to be treated by the infrared sterilization module and then further sterilized by the magnetic field. After passing through the infrared sterilization module in the circulating air duct, the air is heated by infrared radiation, which helps to increase the metabolic activity of microorganisms and thus their sensitivity to the magnetic field. Furthermore, it causes micro-convection in some of the condensate film adhering to the food or inner liner surface, exposing hidden microorganisms. When the air re-enters the storage cavity, the cell membranes of the microorganisms "activated" by the infrared radiation are more easily perforated irreversibly under the Lorentz force of the magnetic field (electroporation effect), leading to their death. Compared to existing technologies, the technical solution provided in this application more easily causes microbial death, thereby improving the sterilization effect.

[0015] Furthermore, in the technical solution of this application, the air inside the storage cavity is flowing during sterilization, allowing microorganisms in some dead corners to flow with the air, thereby solving the problem of difficult sterilization in dead corners in the prior art. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a first structural schematic diagram of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the third structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the inner liner and the circulating air duct provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 Another structural schematic diagram of the inner liner and circulating air duct provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the operation process of the sterilization and preservation device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0018] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 100, Fan; 200, Circulating air duct; 300, Inner liner; 310, Storage cavity; 400, Infrared sterilization module; 500, Magnetic field generating module; 600, Ultraviolet sterilization module; 700, Adsorption module; 800, Air damper; 900, Cooling air duct. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0021] In this application, the term "exemplary" is used to mean "serving as an example, illustration, or description." Any embodiment described as "exemplary" in this application is not necessarily to be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments. The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Details are set forth in the following description for purposes of explanation. It should be understood that those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be made without using these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and processes will not be described in detail to avoid obscuring the description of the invention with unnecessary detail. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is consistent with the broadest scope of the principles and features disclosed in this application.

[0022] Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a sterilization and preservation device, including: 200 circulating air duct Fan 100, the fan 100 being configured to drive air to flow within the circulating air duct 200; The inner liner 300 has a storage cavity 310, an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the storage cavity 310; the circulating air duct 200 is connected to the air inlet and the air outlet; wherein, when the fan 100 is started, the airflow enters the circulating air duct 200 from the air inlet and enters the storage cavity 310 from the air outlet; Infrared sterilization module 400, wherein the infrared sterilization module 400 is disposed within the circulating air duct 200; A magnetic field generating module 500 is disposed on the inner liner 300; the magnetic field generating module 500 is configured to generate a pulsed magnetic field. In the high-efficiency sterilization mode, the fan 100 is started, the infrared sterilization module 400 is turned on first, and the magnetic field generating module 500 is turned on later or simultaneously with the infrared sterilization module 400.

[0023] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the sterilization and preservation device includes an inner liner 300, which forms a storage cavity 310 for storing items that need to be preserved. The inner liner 300 has an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the storage cavity 310, which are respectively connected to a circulation duct 200; a fan 100 is used to drive air to flow inside the circulation duct 200, so that the air in the storage cavity 310 can be circulated through the circulation duct 200. An infrared sterilization module 400 is installed inside the circulation duct 200, and a magnetic field generating module 500 is installed on the inner liner 300. In the high-efficiency sterilization mode, the fan 100 starts, and the infrared sterilization module 400 and the magnetic field generating module 500 start sequentially or simultaneously. This allows the air in the storage cavity 310 to be treated by the infrared sterilization module 400 and then further sterilized by the magnetic field. After passing through the infrared sterilization module 400 in the circulating air duct 200, the air experiences a temperature rise due to infrared radiation, which helps increase the metabolic activity of microorganisms and enhance their sensitivity to the magnetic field. Furthermore, it causes micro-convection in some of the condensate film adhering to the food or the inner liner 300 surface, exposing hidden microorganisms. When the air re-enters the storage cavity 310, the cell membranes of the infrared-activated microorganisms are more easily perforated (electroporation effect) under the Lorentz force of the magnetic field, leading to their death. Compared to existing technologies, the technical solution provided in this application more easily causes microbial death, thus improving the sterilization effect.

[0024] Furthermore, in the technical solution of this application, the air inside the storage cavity 310 is flowing during sterilization, allowing microorganisms in some dead corners to flow with the air, thereby solving the problem of difficult sterilization in dead corners in the prior art.

[0025] The sterilization and preservation device of this application can also operate in a normal sterilization mode, such as the infrared sterilization module 400 operating independently or the magnetic field generating module 500 operating independently, to provide a single temperature field or magnetic field for sterilization. The normal sterilization mode operates more frequently than the high-efficiency sterilization mode. For example, the normal sterilization mode can be used once a week, while the high-efficiency sterilization mode can be used once every two weeks.

[0026] In some embodiments, the infrared sterilization module 400 includes an infrared radiating plate. The infrared radiating plate employs a low-power or thick-film printed ceramic infrared heating element, with a far-infrared emitting coating on its surface. The infrared radiating plate is mounted on the wall of the circulating air duct 200. The operating voltage of the infrared radiating plate is DC24V, and the power is controlled at 10-20W or even lower, such as 5W. The infrared sterilization module 400 refers to an element capable of emitting electromagnetic waves with wavelengths of 4μm-1000μm. Further, in this embodiment, the infrared sterilization module 400 uses a ceramic heating element or semiconductor element that emits 3-14μm far-infrared rays. This wavelength band can be selectively absorbed by water molecules and organic matter, generating a resonant thermal effect.

[0027] In some embodiments, the magnetic field generating module 500 includes a coil encapsulated in the inner liner 300, for example, the coil may be embedded behind the plastic lining of the side walls of the inner liner 300 or the storage door (to avoid direct contact with food). The coil may be a hollow coil wound with Litz wire. The magnetic field generating module 500 includes a pulsed magnetic field generating module 500. The pulsed magnetic field generating module 500 includes a high-voltage capacitor, a fast-switching element (such as an IGBT), and a hollow coil. The capacitor charging voltage is DC100-300V (obtained by an internal boost circuit), the single pulse energy is in the Joule range, and the average power consumption is extremely low. When the pulsed magnetic field generating module 500 is activated, it generates an instantaneous strong magnetic field with an intensity of 0.5T-2T, a pulse width in the microsecond to millisecond range, and an adjustable repetition frequency (e.g., 10-50Hz). Through the Lorentz force and magnetic torque effect, it can disrupt the cell membrane structure and internal bioelectrical activity of microorganisms.

[0028] In some embodiments, the circulating air duct 200 is fixedly installed on the inner liner 300. In some embodiments, when the sterilization and preservation device is used in a refrigerator, the inner liner 300 is one of the compartments of the refrigerator. In this case, the circulating air duct 200 can be an air flow channel formed by the inner liner 300, the cabinet, the insulation layer, etc.

[0029] In some embodiments, the fan 100 can be an axial flow fan 100 or a vortex flow fan 100. The fan 100 is installed on the air duct to drive airflow. The speed of the fan 100 can be controlled, for example, the fan 100 can be set to one speed (high speed), two speeds (medium speed), or three speeds (low speed).

[0030] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the sterilization and preservation device further includes an ultraviolet sterilization module 600, which is disposed within the circulating air duct 200. The ultraviolet sterilization module 600 is used to generate ultraviolet light within the circulating air duct 200 for sterilization. In the technical solution of this application embodiment, during sterilization, microorganisms undergo sterilization pretreatment through the ultraviolet sterilization module 600, which can kill some ultraviolet-sensitive microorganisms; furthermore, microorganisms damaged by ultraviolet light are more likely to undergo irreversible perforation (electroporation effect) under the Lorentz force of the pulsed magnetic field.

[0031] In some embodiments of this application, ultraviolet light is strictly confined within a sealed metal duct and will not leak out. Infrared light is gentle thermal radiation without open flame. The magnetic field is an instantaneous pulse, without producing any static magnetic field residue. In terms of power consumption, both the ultraviolet LED and the infrared panel operate in pulsed mode, resulting in extremely low actual average power (approximately 3-5W in total). The magnetic field coil consumes power instantaneously, with an average power consumption of less than 2W.

[0032] In this embodiment, the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 includes multiple low-power UVC-LEDs (wavelength 200-280nm) arranged in a preset dot matrix within the circulating air duct 200, such as on the top air duct outlet grille and the rear air supply panel of the refrigerator / variable temperature compartment, ensuring comprehensive radiation coverage. The LED driving circuit operates at DC 12V or 24V, supplied by the refrigerator's internal switching power supply, with extremely low power consumption (0.1-0.5W per LED).

[0033] In some embodiments, the UV sterilization module 600 can also operate independently for routine sterilization. For example, when strong sterilization is not required, the UV sterilization module 600 operates in a low duty cycle (e.g., 5 seconds on, 55 seconds off) pulsed mode when the refrigerator door is closed, continuously disinfecting the circulating air and inhibiting microbial activity. In this mode, the far-infrared and pulsed magnetic field units are not activated.

[0034] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the powerful sterilization mode includes a first powerful sterilization mode; In the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the infrared sterilization module 400 runs for a first preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module 400 and the magnetic field generating module 500 run together for a second preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module 400 and the magnetic field generating module 500 are turned off and the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 runs for a third preset duration, and then the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 is turned off.

[0035] In the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, synergistic phase 1: infrared activation (3-5 minutes): The far-infrared unit is activated, gently heating the air in the room (temperature rises by approximately 3-5°C to 10-12°C). This temperature increase is brief and has no impact on food quality, but it significantly enhances the metabolic activity of microorganisms, making them more sensitive to subsequent physical shocks. Simultaneously, far-infrared radiation can slightly vibrate water molecules, aiding in subsequent magnetic field effects.

[0036] Synergistic Phase 2: Pulsed Magnetic Blast (1-2 minutes): Under continuous infrared irradiation, the pulsed magnetic field unit is activated, emitting a high-intensity pulsed magnetic field at a frequency of 10-50Hz. In the rapidly changing, strong magnetic field, the activated microbial cells experience disordered cell membrane potentials, and their internal organelles are subjected to intense magnetic impacts, resulting in structural damage.

[0037] Collaborative Phase 3: Ultraviolet Purification (3-5 minutes): The infrared and magnetic field units are turned off, and the ultraviolet unit is started at full power. At this time, free DNA / RNA fragments and residual bacteria released from cell rupture in the air are completely inactivated by high-intensity ultraviolet light. Air convection (maintained by the existing fan 100) ensures that all air passes through the ultraviolet radiation zone.

[0038] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the first powerful sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: a first instruction; the number of times the door of the sterilization and preservation device has been opened since the last triggering of the first powerful sterilization mode has reached a preset number; the humidity inside the sterilization and preservation device exceeds a preset humidity and remains at a first set duration; the odor concentration inside the sterilization and preservation device exceeds a preset concentration or the increase in odor concentration exceeds a preset increase value; the first running time of the sterilization and preservation device since the last exit from the first powerful sterilization mode has reached a second set duration.

[0039] In this embodiment, the user can trigger the first powerful sterilization mode through commands such as the control panel, the APP, or voice commands.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first powerful sterilization mode begins to accumulate the number of times the refrigerator door has been opened since the last time it ended. Once a preset number of times is reached, the first powerful sterilization mode will be triggered once. For example, the preset number of times is 100, 150, 200, etc.

[0041] In one embodiment, when the humidity inside the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset humidity and is maintained for a first set duration (e.g., one day), the microbial reproduction rate accelerates under this environment, which will trigger a first strong sterilization mode.

[0042] In the embodiment, if the odor concentration in the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset concentration or the increase in odor concentration exceeds the preset increase value, it indicates that the amount of microbial growth is large, and the first strong sterilization mode will be triggered.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first powerful sterilization mode can also be implemented periodically. For example, the sterilization and preservation device can be automatically activated every two weeks, every week, or every three days.

[0044] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration duct 900, wherein a damper 800 is provided between the refrigeration duct 900 and the storage cavity 310, or between the refrigeration duct 900 and the circulation duct 200; when the damper 800 is open, the refrigeration duct 900 is connected to the storage cavity 310, or the refrigeration duct 900 is connected to the storage cavity 310 through the circulation duct 200; when the damper 800 is closed, the refrigeration duct 900 is not connected to the storage cavity 310, or the refrigeration duct 900 is not connected to the circulation duct 200. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper 800 closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 is turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper 800 is opened.

[0045] In the embodiments, combined with Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the sterilization and preservation device includes a refrigeration duct 900, used to maintain a low-temperature environment inside the storage chamber 310. When the damper 800 is open, cold air enters the storage chamber 310, cooling the internal environment. When the first high-efficiency sterilization mode is activated, the damper 800 is closed, temporarily preventing cold air from entering the sterilization and preservation device, allowing the air irradiated by the infrared sterilization module 400 to briefly warm up; infrared radiation provides non-contact, instantaneous (millisecond-level) gentle heating to tiny water vapor particles and microorganisms in the air, increasing the microorganisms' sensitivity to the magnetic field. After the first high-efficiency sterilization mode ends, the damper 800 is opened, allowing cold air to re-enter the storage chamber 310, causing its internal temperature to drop.

[0046] In this embodiment, the cooling duct 900 and the circulating duct 200 can be independently configured, such as... Figure 4 As shown.

[0047] In this embodiment, the cooling duct 900 and the circulating duct 200 may be connected, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0048] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 and the infrared sterilization module 400 are sequentially arranged within the circulating air duct 200 in the airflow direction, and the powerful sterilization mode includes a second powerful sterilization mode. In the second powerful sterilization mode, the ultraviolet sterilization module 600, the infrared sterilization module 400, and the ultraviolet sterilization module 600 simultaneously operate for a fourth preset time and then shut down.

[0049] Primary irradiation: When the fan starts, air is drawn into the duct. It first passes through the pulsed ultraviolet LED array. Airborne microorganisms and some bacteria "blown" to the surface of the duct by the airflow are directly irradiated by UVC, which kills some microorganisms and damages or activates others (increasing magnetic field sensitivity) after primary irradiation. Gentle Heating and Sensitization: Air then flows through the mid- and far-infrared radiation plates. Infrared radiation provides non-contact, instantaneous (millisecond-level) gentle heating to tiny water vapor particles and microorganisms in the air (aiming for an air mass temperature rise of ≤3°C). This process produces two key effects: first, it slightly enhances the metabolic activity of microorganisms, making them more sensitive to subsequent physical fields; second, it causes micro-convection in some of the condensate film adhering to the food or the inner liner 300 surface, exposing hidden microorganisms.

[0050] Core Killing and Penetration: Air / microorganisms, after being gently heated and pretreated with ultraviolet light, flow through the area affected by the pulsed magnetic field coil. The high-frequency pulsed magnetic field (e.g., pulse frequency 1-10Hz, magnetic field strength 0.5-2T, pulse width on the order of microseconds) generates a strong induced electromagnetic force. At this time, microbial cells that have been "activated" by infrared / ultraviolet light and may be damaged by ultraviolet light are more susceptible to irreversible perforation of their cell membranes under the Lorentz force of the pulsed magnetic field (electroporation effect), leading to leakage of contents and death.

[0051] In this embodiment, the fourth preset duration can be 5-10 minutes.

[0052] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the second powerful sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: a second instruction; the door of the sterilization and preservation device reaches a third set time after being closed for a second running period; the sterilization and preservation device reaches a fourth set time after being exited from the second powerful sterilization mode for a third running period.

[0053] In this embodiment, the second enhanced sterilization mode begins to accumulate the number of times the refrigerator door has been opened since the last time it ended. Once a preset number of times has been reached, the second enhanced sterilization mode will be triggered once. For example, the preset number of times is 100, 150, 200, etc.

[0054] In this embodiment, the user can trigger the second powerful sterilization mode through commands such as the control panel, the APP, or voice commands.

[0055] In this embodiment, when the user opens the refrigerator door and closes it for 5 minutes, a second, more powerful sterilization mode can be run.

[0056] In this embodiment, the second powerful sterilization mode can also be implemented periodically. For example, the sterilization and preservation device can be automatically activated every two weeks, every week, or every three days.

[0057] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, the sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration duct 900, wherein a damper 800 is provided between the refrigeration duct 900 and the storage cavity 310, or between the refrigeration duct 900 and the circulation duct 200; when the damper 800 is open, the refrigeration duct 900 is connected to the storage cavity 310, or the refrigeration duct 900 is connected to the storage cavity 310 through the circulation duct 200; when the damper 800 is closed, the refrigeration duct 900 is not connected to the storage cavity 310, or the refrigeration duct 900 is not connected to the circulation duct 200. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper 800 closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module 600, the magnetic field generating module 500, and the infrared sterilization module 400 are turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper 800 opens.

[0058] In the embodiments, combined with Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the sterilization and preservation device includes a refrigeration duct 900, used to maintain a low-temperature environment inside the storage chamber 310. When the damper 800 is open, cold air enters the storage chamber 310, cooling the internal environment. When the second powerful sterilization mode is activated, the damper 800 is closed, temporarily preventing cold air from entering the sterilization and preservation device, allowing the air irradiated by the infrared sterilization module 400 to briefly warm up; infrared radiation provides non-contact, instantaneous (millisecond-level) gentle heating to tiny water vapor particles and microorganisms in the air, increasing the microorganisms' sensitivity to the magnetic field. After the first powerful sterilization mode ends, the damper 800 is opened, allowing cold air to re-enter the storage chamber 310, causing its internal temperature to drop.

[0059] In this embodiment, the cooling duct 900 and the circulating duct 200 can be independently configured, such as... Figure 4 As shown.

[0060] In this embodiment, the cooling duct 900 and the circulating duct 200 may be connected, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0061] Reference Figure 6 As shown, when the sterilization and preservation device of this application embodiment enters the sterilization mode, it needs to determine whether the storage door (such as the refrigerator door) is closed. If it is not closed, the sterilization mode will not be entered to prevent leakage of ultraviolet rays, etc. At the same time, the damper 800 is closed, so that the storage cavity 310 forms a sealed chamber. After the sterilization mode operation ends, the damper 800 is opened to immediately cool the storage cavity 310. When the sterilization mode is running, the door can be self-locking; or if the storage door is opened while the sterilization mode is running, the sterilization mode will be exited; after the door is closed again, sterilization will then proceed.

[0062] As an optional implementation of the above embodiments, Figure 3 As shown, the sterilization and preservation device further includes an adsorption module 700, which is located within the circulating air duct 200 and upstream of the infrared sterilization module 400 in the airflow direction; or the adsorption module 700 is located within the air inlet. In embodiments, the adsorption module 700 can be an activated carbon adsorption module 700 or a molecular sieve adsorption module 700. The activated carbon adsorption module 700 and the molecular sieve adsorption module 700 have a deodorizing effect and can adsorb odors (such as ethylene, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, etc., and ripening gases), which is beneficial for regulating the odor within the sterilization and preservation device. In some embodiments, the molecular sieve adsorption module 700 is internally provided with a man-made adsorption material with a uniform microporous structure (such as zeolite) (e.g., 3A-4A molecular sieve for ethylene), and a small amount of activated carbon and potassium permanganate can also be added as auxiliary materials.

[0063] In this embodiment, the adsorption module 700 can be detachably disposed within the circulating air duct for easy replacement. For example, the adsorption module 700 can be constructed as a drawer and installed in the circulating air duct by pulling it out.

[0064] The sterilization and preservation device provided in this application has at least the following features or advantages: (1) High efficiency and comprehensiveness, excellent sterilization effect, no dead angles: 100% air circulation by the fan, sterilization without dead angles. Infrared preheating improves the physiological vulnerability of microorganisms. Pulsed magnetic field can penetrate plastic and glass packaging, and carry out "non-contact physical attack" on microorganisms on the surface of food and in all locations in the space, which helps to solve the problem of dead angles of ultraviolet irradiation. Ultraviolet light performs final purification of air and exposed surfaces. The three work together to realize a complete chain from "activation" to "killing" to "cleaning", and the sterilization rate (such as against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) can reach more than 99.9%. Synergistic effect, significantly improved sterilization rate: The triple effect of infrared "sensitization" + ultraviolet "damage" + magnetic field "membrane breaking" forms a physical synergistic killing effect. The killing rate of bacteria, mold and virus (especially against spores that are difficult to kill) is expected to far exceed that of single technology, and can achieve a sterilization rate of >99.9%; (2) Safe and environmentally friendly, food-friendly: The entire process does not produce ozone, reactive oxygen species or other strong oxidizing byproducts, avoiding chemical pollution and oxidative damage to food. Physical sterilization leaves no chemical residue. Molecular sieves selectively adsorb odors rather than mask them, preserving the original flavor of the food.

[0065] (3) Low energy consumption and high adaptability: Voltage adaptation: The operating voltage of all units is taken from the existing power system inside the refrigerator (12V / 24V DC and boost), without the need for external high voltage access, which is safe and easy to integrate. Extremely low energy consumption: The increase in power consumption in daily mode is negligible. The high-efficiency mode is only activated when necessary, and the energy consumption per cycle is equivalent to the refrigerator defrosting cycle, with a minimal impact on the overall energy efficiency (estimated <1%). Low temperature resistance design: The selected UVC-LEDs, pulse capacitors and other components are all of low temperature resistance specifications to ensure stable operation in the low temperature environment of the refrigerator.

[0066] (4) Long-lasting freshness preservation, enhancing user experience: Inhibits microorganisms and ripening gases at the source, significantly extending the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other foods. Completely eliminates refrigerator odors, keeping the internal air fresh. Modular design (especially the replaceable molecular sieve box) makes maintenance convenient and reduces lifecycle costs; (5) Intelligent and controllable, cost controllable: Intelligent triggering based on sensors avoids energy waste. The main components (UVC-LED, ceramic infrared sheet, pulse capacitor, molecular sieve) are all mature industrial products with moderate cost, suitable for large-scale mass production.

[0067] (6) Intelligent and adaptive: It can be linked with the refrigerator's intelligent system to automatically adjust the sterilization cycle and intensity according to the frequency of door opening and closing, compartment humidity and operating mode, so as to realize intelligent management.

[0068] This application also proposes a refrigerator, which includes the sterilization and preservation device as described above; wherein, the storage cavity 310 is at least one of the refrigerator's refrigeration cavity, freezing cavity, or variable temperature cavity, or the sterilization and preservation device is installed in at least one of the refrigerator's refrigeration cavity, freezing cavity, or variable temperature cavity.

[0069] In one embodiment, the sterilization and preservation device can be used as an accessory to the refrigerator and can be installed in at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment, or variable temperature compartment of the refrigerator.

[0070] In some embodiments, the sterilization and preservation device can also be part of the refrigerator structure, wherein the storage cavity 310 is at least one of the refrigerator's refrigeration cavity, freezing cavity, or variable temperature cavity, and the circulating air duct 200 is part of the refrigerator's cooling air duct 900 or an air duct connected to the cooling air duct 900 or a part formed by the inner liner 300, the refrigerator's cabinet, and the insulation layer.

[0071] In this embodiment, the control logic of the sterilization and preservation device can be configured in the refrigerator's intelligent control system. It can automatically adjust the sterilization cycle and intensity (such as adjusting the infrared frequency, ultraviolet frequency, magnetic field frequency, fan speed of 100) based on the door opening and closing frequency, compartment humidity, and humidity / odor inside the compartment, to achieve intelligent management.

[0072] The above provides a detailed description of a sterilization and preservation device and a refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of the present invention. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of the present invention. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sterilization and preservation device, characterized by comprising: include: Circulating air duct, A fan configured to drive air to flow within the circulating air duct; The inner liner has a storage cavity, an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the storage cavity; the circulating air duct is communicating with the air inlet and the air outlet; wherein, when the fan is started, the airflow enters the circulating air duct from the air inlet and enters the storage cavity from the air outlet; An infrared sterilization module is provided inside a circulating air duct. A magnetic field generating module is disposed on the inner liner; the magnetic field generating module is configured to generate a pulsed magnetic field; In the high-efficiency sterilization mode, when the fan starts, the infrared sterilization module is turned on first, and the magnetic field generating module is turned on later or simultaneously with the infrared sterilization module.

2. The sterilizing and preserving device according to claim 1, wherein The sterilization and preservation device also includes an ultraviolet sterilization module, which is located inside the circulating air duct.

3. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The powerful sterilization mode includes a first powerful sterilization mode; In the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the infrared sterilization module runs for a first preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module and the magnetic field generating module jointly run for a second preset duration, then the infrared sterilization module and the magnetic field generating module are turned off and the ultraviolet sterilization module runs for a third preset duration, and then the ultraviolet sterilization module is turned off.

4. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the first high-efficiency sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: First instruction; The door of the sterilization and preservation device has been opened a preset number of times since the first powerful sterilization mode was last triggered. The humidity inside the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset humidity and remains at the first preset humidity for a certain period of time; The odor concentration in the sterilization and preservation device exceeds the preset concentration or the increase in odor concentration exceeds the preset increase value; The sterilization and preservation device has been running for a second set duration since it last exited the first high-efficiency sterilization mode.

5. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration air duct, and a damper is provided between the refrigeration air duct and the storage cavity, or between the refrigeration air duct and the circulation air duct; when the damper is open, the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity through the circulation air duct; when the damper is closed, the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the circulation air duct. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module is turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the first high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper opens.

6. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The powerful sterilization mode includes a second powerful sterilization mode; In the second powerful sterilization mode, the ultraviolet sterilization module, the infrared sterilization module, and the ultraviolet sterilization module all run simultaneously for a fourth preset time before shutting down.

7. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The sterilization and preservation device further includes a control module; the sterilization and preservation device enters the second high-efficiency sterilization mode when the control module obtains one of the following information: Second instruction; The door of the sterilization and preservation device reaches a third set duration after the second running time following its closing. The sterilization and preservation device reaches a fourth set duration after the third running time since it last exited the second high-efficiency sterilization mode.

8. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The sterilization and preservation device further includes a refrigeration air duct, and a damper is provided between the refrigeration air duct and the storage cavity, or between the refrigeration air duct and the circulation air duct; when the damper is open, the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is connected to the storage cavity through the circulation air duct; when the damper is closed, the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the storage cavity, or the refrigeration air duct is not connected to the circulation air duct. When the sterilization and preservation device enters the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, the damper closes; When the ultraviolet sterilization module, the magnetic field generating module, and the infrared sterilization module are turned off, the sterilization and preservation device exits the second high-efficiency sterilization mode, and the damper opens.

9. The sterilization and preservation device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sterilization and preservation device further includes an adsorption module, which is located in the circulating air duct and upstream of the infrared sterilization module in the airflow direction; or the adsorption module is located in the air inlet.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes the sterilization and preservation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; wherein the storage cavity is at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment or variable temperature compartment of the refrigerator, or the sterilization and preservation device is installed in at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment or variable temperature compartment of the refrigerator.

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