A refrigerator and its odor purification method

Abstract

This invention discloses a refrigerator and its odor purification method. An additional first air duct, equipped with dampers at both ends, is installed within the air duct leading to the refrigerator compartment. A gas sensor and a photocatalytic module are installed within the first air duct, and an ion generator is installed inside the refrigerator compartment. Both the photocatalytic module and the ion generator are used to purify odor gases. When the gas sensor is working normally, the photocatalytic module is turned off, and the dampers in the first air duct and the ion generator are opened, purifying the refrigerator compartment through the ion generator. When the gas sensor is at risk of passivation, the dampers in the first air duct close, and the photocatalytic module activates to purify the odor gases in the first air duct, restoring the gas sensor's sensitivity. During this period, the ion generator continues to operate to purify the odor gases in the refrigerator compartment. This invention can restore the sensitivity of the gas sensor in a timely manner according to the degree of odor influence on the gas sensor, without affecting the refrigerator's odor purification effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to a refrigerator and a method for purifying its odors. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of living standards, the variety of food stored in refrigerators is increasing, and food emits various odors. Currently, odor problems inside refrigerators have become one of the main pain points for refrigerator users. Many refrigerator manufacturers on the market now equip their refrigerators with gas sensors and deodorization modules. These sensors monitor odors in real time and then use ozone or ionization devices to remove them, achieving intelligent odor removal. However, if the gas sensor is exposed to a high concentration of odors for a long time, it will become desensitized, its sensitivity will decrease, leading to misjudgments of the odor situation and an inability to correctly control the deodorization module. This results in increased odors inside the refrigerator, affecting the user experience. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to high concentrations of odors will reduce the lifespan of the gas sensor. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator and its odor purification method, which can restore the sensitivity of the gas sensor in a timely manner according to the degree of influence of odor on the gas sensor, without affecting the odor purification effect of the refrigerator.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of the present invention provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0005] A box, in which a storage room is formed, the storage room including at least a cold storage room;

[0006] The first air duct is located in the air duct that communicates with the refrigerator compartment, and the first air duct is provided with a first air door and a second air door;

[0007] A gas sensor is installed between the first damper and the second damper to detect the concentration of odorous gases flowing into the storage chamber;

[0008] A photocatalytic module is located between the first air damper and the second air damper, and is used to purify odorous gases in the first air duct through photocatalysis.

[0009] An ion generator, located in the storage room, is used to generate ozone to purify odorous gases in the storage room;

[0010] The controller is configured as follows:

[0011] The cumulative operating time of the gas sensor when it operates in an odor concentration environment is obtained; wherein, the odor concentration environment is when the odor gas concentration in the storage room is greater than a set concentration threshold.

[0012] When the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold, the first air damper, the second air damper and the ion generator are kept open, and the photocatalyst module is kept closed, so that the ion generator can purify the odor gas in the storage room.

[0013] When the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, the first and second air dampers are closed, and the photocatalyst module is activated to purify the odor gas in the first air duct.

[0014] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is further configured to:

[0015] After the photocatalyst module is started, the photocatalytic duration of the photocatalyst module after this start is obtained;

[0016] When the photocatalytic duration exceeds a preset catalytic duration threshold, the first damper and the second damper are opened, and the photocatalytic module is turned off.

[0017] As an improvement to the above solution, the refrigerator further includes:

[0018] A purification fan is located in the first air duct and installed between the first air damper and the second air damper to allow gas to flow in the first air duct.

[0019] Then, the controller is further configured to: control the purification fan to remain off when the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold; control the purification fan to turn on when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold; and control the purification fan to turn off when the photocatalysis time exceeds the preset catalysis time threshold.

[0020] As an improvement to the above solution, the refrigerator further includes:

[0021] A heating wire is disposed in the first air duct and installed between the first air damper and the second air damper, and is used to generate heat to accelerate the catalytic effect of the photocatalytic module;

[0022] Then, the controller is further configured to: control the heating wire to remain off when the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold; control the heating wire to turn on when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold; and control the heating wire to turn off when the photocatalysis time exceeds the preset catalysis time threshold.

[0023] As an improvement to the above solution, the refrigerator further includes:

[0024] The second air duct is connected to the refrigerator compartment;

[0025] The main air duct is connected to the first air duct and the second air duct;

[0026] The main fan is located in the main air duct and is positioned close to the first air duct and the second air duct. It is used to transmit the cold air after heat exchange from the evaporator to the first air duct and / or the second air duct so that the cold air can reach the refrigerator compartment through the first air duct and / or the second air duct.

[0027] The controller is further configured to keep the main fan on when the refrigerator is in the cooling operation phase.

[0028] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is further configured to: acquire the real-time odor gas concentration detected by the gas sensor; search for the corresponding target odor level among a number of preset odor levels based on the real-time odor gas concentration, and acquire the target operating mode of the ion generator based on the target odor level; wherein each odor level corresponds to an operating mode of the ion generator; and control the ion generator to operate according to the target operating mode.

[0029] As an improvement to the above scheme, the set concentration threshold is the lower limit of the lowest odor level among several odor levels, the set duration threshold corresponds one-to-one with the odor level, and the set duration threshold is inversely proportional to the odor level.

[0030] As an improvement to the above scheme, the odor level is divided into low odor level, medium odor level, and high odor level according to the concentration from low to high. The set duration threshold includes a first set duration threshold, a second set duration threshold, and a third set duration threshold. The high odor level corresponds to the first set duration threshold, the medium odor level corresponds to the second set duration threshold, and the low odor level corresponds to the third set duration threshold; wherein, the first set duration threshold < the second set duration threshold < the third set duration threshold; then, the controller is further configured to:

[0031] When the cumulative running time of the gas sensor at a high odor level reaches the first set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to run at the third intensity.

[0032] When the cumulative running time of the gas sensor at the medium odor level reaches the second set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to run at the second intensity.

[0033] When the cumulative running time of the gas sensor at the low odor level reaches the third set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the first intensity; the first intensity < the second intensity < the third intensity.

[0034] To achieve the above objectives, this invention also provides a refrigerator odor purification method. The refrigerator has a first air duct communicating with the refrigerator compartment, and the first air duct has a first air damper and a second air damper. A gas sensor and a photocatalyst module are disposed between the first and second air dampers. The gas sensor is used to detect the concentration of odor gas flowing into the refrigerator compartment, and the photocatalyst module is used to purify the odor gas in the first air duct through photocatalysis. An ion generator is disposed in the refrigerator compartment to generate ozone to purify the odor gas in the compartment. Therefore, the refrigerator odor purification method includes:

[0035] The cumulative operating time of the gas sensor when it operates in an odor concentration environment is obtained; wherein, the odor concentration environment is when the odor gas concentration in the storage room is greater than a set concentration threshold.

[0036] When the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold, the first air damper, the second air damper and the ion generator are kept open, and the photocatalyst module is kept closed, so that the ion generator can purify the odor gas in the storage room.

[0037] When the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, the first and second air dampers are closed, and the photocatalyst module is activated to purify the odor gas in the first air duct.

[0038] As an improvement to the above solution, the method further includes:

[0039] After the photocatalyst module is started, the photocatalytic duration of the photocatalyst module after this start is obtained;

[0040] When the photocatalytic duration exceeds a preset catalytic duration threshold, the first damper and the second damper are opened, and the photocatalytic module is turned off.

[0041] As an improvement to the above solution, the method further includes:

[0042] Obtain the real-time concentration of odorous gas detected by the gas sensor;

[0043] The target odor level is found among several preset odor levels based on the real-time odor gas concentration, and the target operating mode of the ion generator is obtained based on the target odor level; wherein, each odor level corresponds to an operating mode of the ion generator.

[0044] The ion generator is controlled to operate according to the target operating mode.

[0045] Compared to existing technologies, the refrigerator and its odor purification method disclosed in this invention include an additional first air duct with dampers at both ends within the air duct leading to the refrigerator compartment. A gas sensor and a photocatalytic module are installed within this first air duct, and an ion generator is installed inside the refrigerator compartment. Both the photocatalytic module and the ion generator are used to purify odor gases. When the gas sensor is working normally, the photocatalytic module is turned off, and the dampers in the first air duct and the ion generator are opened, purifying the refrigerator compartment through the ion generator. When the gas sensor is at risk of passivation, the dampers in the first air duct close, and the photocatalytic module activates to purify the odor gases within the first air duct, restoring the sensitivity of the gas sensor. During this period, the ion generator continues to operate to purify the odor gases in the refrigerator compartment. This invention can restore the sensitivity of the gas sensor in a timely manner according to the degree of odor influence on the gas sensor, without affecting the refrigerator's odor purification effect. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigeration system in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct of the refrigerator compartment provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a first working flowchart of the controller in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first type of airflow direction in the refrigerator compartment provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second airflow direction in the refrigerator compartment provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a second working flowchart of the controller in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 8 This is a third workflow diagram of the controller in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 9 This is the fourth workflow diagram of the controller in the refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0055] Figure 10 This is the fifth workflow diagram of the controller in the refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0056] Figure 11This is a flowchart of a refrigerator odor purification method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Among them, 100 is the refrigerator; 10 is the cold storage compartment; 1 is the compressor; 2 is the condenser; 3 is the anti-condensation pipe; 4 is the dryer filter; 5 is the capillary tube; 6 is the evaporator; 7 is the gas-liquid separator; 11 is the first air duct; 12 is the second air duct; 13 is the main air duct; 101 is the first air damper; 102 is the second air damper; 103 is the gas sensor; 104 is the photocatalyst module; 105 is the ion generator; 106 is the purification fan; and 107 is the heating wire. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention 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.

[0059] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application 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 this application.

[0060] 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 technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0061] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0062] See Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator 100 of this embodiment has an approximately rectangular shape. The refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a storage space and multiple doors located at the opening of the cabinet. Each door includes a door shell located on the outside of the cabinet, a door inner liner located on the inside of the cabinet, an upper cover, a lower cover, and an insulation layer located between the door shell, door inner liner, upper cover, and lower cover; typically, the insulation layer is filled with foam material. The cabinet has chambers, including a compressor compartment for placing refrigerator components, such as storing the compressor, and storage space for storing food, etc. The storage space can be divided into multiple storage compartments, which can be configured as refrigerator compartments, freezer compartments, vacuum compartments, etc., depending on their purpose. Each storage compartment corresponds to one or more doors; for example, the upper storage compartment has double doors. The doors can be pivotally mounted at the opening of the cabinet or can be drawer-type openings to achieve drawer-type storage. The opening of the storage compartment is equipped with a door seal, which is used to ensure that the door and the opening of the storage compartment are in close contact when the door is closed.

[0063] See Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration system in the refrigerator 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigeration system includes a compressor 1, a condenser 2, an anti-condensation pipe 3, a dryer filter 4, a capillary tube 5, an evaporator 6, and a gas-liquid separator 7. The working process of the refrigeration system includes a compression process, a condensation process, a throttling process, and an evaporation process.

[0064] The compression process is as follows: When the refrigerator power cord is plugged in and the thermostat contacts are closed, compressor 1 starts working. Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into compressor 1 and compressed into high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas within the compressor 1 cylinder before being discharged into condenser 2. The condensation process is as follows: The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipates heat through condenser 2, its temperature continuously decreasing until it is gradually cooled into room-temperature, high-pressure saturated vapor, and further cooled into saturated liquid. The temperature at this point no longer decreases; this temperature is called the condensation temperature. The pressure of the refrigerant remains almost constant throughout the entire condensation process. (Throttling) The process is as follows: After condensation, the saturated liquid refrigerant flows into the capillary tube 5 after the moisture and impurities are removed by the dryer filter 4. The capillary tube 5 then throttles and reduces the pressure, turning the refrigerant into a room-temperature, low-pressure wet vapor. The evaporation process is as follows: The room-temperature, low-pressure wet vapor begins to absorb heat and vaporize in the evaporator 6, which not only lowers the temperature of the evaporator and its surroundings but also turns the refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. The refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 6 passes through the gas-liquid separator 7 and returns to the compressor 1. The above process is repeated to transfer the heat inside the refrigerator to the outside air, thus achieving the purpose of refrigeration.

[0065] See Figure 3 , Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the air duct of the refrigerator compartment 10 in the refrigerator 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The air duct connecting the refrigerator compartment includes a first air duct 11, a second air duct 12, and a main air duct 13. The first air duct 11 has a first air damper 101 and a second air damper 102 at its left and right ends. When the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are closed, the first air duct 11 is not connected to the refrigerator compartment 10. When the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are open, the first air duct 11 is connected to the refrigerator compartment 10. The second air duct 12 does not have any dampers and remains connected to the refrigerator compartment 10. The main air duct 13 connects to the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. Cold air passes through the main air duct 10 and is then transferred to the first air duct and the second air duct 12 before entering the refrigerator compartment 10.

[0066] A gas sensor 103 is disposed in the first air duct 11 and installed between the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102, for detecting the concentration of odorous gas flowing into the storage room.

[0067] A photocatalytic module 104 is disposed within the first air duct 11 and installed between the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102. It is used to purify odorous gases within the first air duct 11 through photocatalysis. Under light irradiation, the photocatalytic module 104 generates a photocatalytic reaction similar to photosynthesis, producing highly oxidizing free hydroxyl radicals and reactive oxygen species. It possesses strong photo-oxidation and reduction capabilities, capable of oxidizing and decomposing various organic compounds and some inorganic substances. It can destroy bacterial cell membranes and solidify viral proteins, killing bacteria and decomposing organic pollutants into harmless water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Therefore, it has extremely strong bactericidal, deodorizing, mildew-proof, stain-resistant, self-cleaning, and air-purifying functions.

[0068] An ion generator 105, located in the storage chamber, is used to generate ozone to purify odorous gases within the storage chamber. The ion generator 105 is a common air purification device that purifies the air by generating negative and positive ions. Since a large number of ions exist in the natural atmosphere, the ion generator 105 generates ionized gas through electrostatic interaction, adding a large number of negative and positive ions to the air, thus purifying it.

[0069] A purification fan 106 is disposed in the first air duct 11 and installed between the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102, for allowing gas to flow in the first air duct.

[0070] A heating wire 107 is disposed in the first air duct 11 and installed between the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102, and is used to generate heat to accelerate the catalytic effect of the photocatalyst module 104.

[0071] The main fan 108 is located in the main air duct 13 and is positioned close to the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. It is used to transmit cold air after heat exchange from the evaporator to the first air duct 11 and / or the second air duct 12, so that the cold air can reach the refrigerator compartment 10 through the first air duct 11 and / or the second air duct 12.

[0072] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is configured to: acquire the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor 103 when it operates in an odor concentration environment; wherein, the odor concentration environment is defined as the odor gas concentration in the storage compartment being greater than a set concentration threshold; when the cumulative operating time does not reach the preset set time threshold, control the first air damper 101, the second air damper 102, and the ion generator 105 to remain open, and control the photocatalyst module 104 to remain closed, so that the ion generator 105 purifies the odor gas in the storage compartment; when the cumulative operating time reaches the set time threshold, control the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 to close, and activate the photocatalyst module 104, so that the photocatalyst module 104 purifies the odor gas in the first air duct 11.

[0073] For example, see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a first working flowchart of the controller in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The controller is configured to execute steps S11 to S13. During the operation of the gas sensor 103, the ion generator 105 purifies the gas in the refrigerator compartment 10. If the gas sensor 103 is exposed to a high concentration of odor for a long time, it will affect the sensitivity of the gas sensor 103 and lead to passivation risk. Therefore, the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor 103 in the odor concentration environment is monitored. This cumulative operating time is the operating time accumulated since the gas sensor 103 was last relieved of passivation risk. The passivation risk of the gas sensor 103 is determined based on this cumulative operating time.

[0074] See Figure 5 , Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the first airflow direction in the refrigerator compartment provided in this embodiment of the invention. When the cumulative running time has not reached the set time threshold, it indicates that the gas sensor 103 is not at risk of passivation and its sensitivity is still high. Therefore, the first air damper 101, the second air damper 102, and the ion generator are kept open, the photocatalyst module 104 is closed, and the ion generator 105 remains open, so that the ion generator continues to perform odor purification operation on the refrigerator compartment 10. At this time, the cold air passes through the main air duct 13. Since the main fan 108 remains on when the refrigerator is in the cooling operation stage, the cold air is split into two parts under the action of the main fan 108. One part of the cold air enters the refrigerator compartment 10 through the first air duct 11. At this time, the cold air will flow through the gas sensor 103, which detects the odor concentration. The other part of the cold air enters the refrigerator compartment 10 through the second air duct 12. Then, they converge and circulate in the refrigerator compartment 10. The ion generator 105 purifies the cold air. After passing through the return air of the refrigerator compartment 10, the purified cold air will return to the main air duct 13 and continue to circulate.

[0075] See Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second airflow direction in the refrigerator compartment provided in this embodiment of the invention. When the cumulative running time reaches a set time threshold, it indicates that the gas sensor 103 has been working in an environment with a high odor concentration for a long time and is at risk of passivation. It is necessary to restore the sensitivity of the gas sensor 103. Therefore, at this time, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are closed, so that the first air duct 11 is disconnected from the main air duct 13 and the refrigerator compartment 10, and the photocatalyst module 104 is activated to purify the odor gas in the first air duct 11. The ion generator 105 remains on, so that the ion generator 105 continues to perform odor purification operation on the refrigerator compartment 10. At this time, the cold air passes through the main air duct 13. Under the action of the main fan 108, since the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are closed, the cold air directly enters the refrigerator compartment 10 through the second air duct 12. Then it circulates in the refrigerator compartment 10. The ion generator 105 purifies the cold air. After passing through the return air of the refrigerator compartment 10, the purified cold air will return to the main air duct 13 and continue to circulate.

[0076] In this embodiment of the invention, when the gas sensor is at risk of passivation, the damper in the first air duct 11 is closed, and the photocatalyst module 104 is activated to purify the odor gas in the first air duct 11, so that the sensitivity of the gas sensor 103 is restored. During this period, the ion generator 105 continues to work to purify the odor gas in the refrigerator compartment.

[0077] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is further configured to: after the photocatalytic module 104 is started, acquire the photocatalytic duration of the photocatalytic module 104 after this start; when the photocatalytic duration is greater than a preset catalytic duration threshold, control the first damper 101 and the second damper to open 102, and shut down the photocatalytic module 104.

[0078] For example, see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a second working flowchart of the controller in the refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention. After executing step S14, the controller is also used to execute steps S15 to S17. When the photocatalytic duration is greater than the preset catalytic duration threshold, it indicates that the odor gas in the first air duct 11 has been purified. At this time, the passivation risk of the gas sensor 103 is eliminated. Therefore, it is necessary to open the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 and close the photocatalytic module 104 so that the first air duct 11 continues to transmit cold air.

[0079] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is further configured to: control the purification fan to remain off when the cumulative running time does not reach a preset set time threshold; control the purification fan to turn on when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold; and control the purification fan to turn off when the photocatalysis time exceeds a preset catalysis time threshold.

[0080] For example, see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a third working flowchart of the controller in the refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention. The controller is configured to execute steps S21 to S27. Steps S21 to S27 are the working process of the purification fan 106. During the period when the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are closed, in order to circulate the gas in the first air duct 11, the purification fan 106 is started so that the photocatalyst module 104 can fully purify the gas in the first air duct 11, thereby achieving the effect of quickly restoring the sensitivity of the gas sensor 103.

[0081] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is further configured to: control the heating wire to remain off when the cumulative running time does not reach a preset set time threshold; control the heating wire 107 to turn on when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold; and control the heating wire 107 to turn off when the photocatalytic duration exceeds a preset catalytic duration threshold.

[0082] For example, see Figure 9 , Figure 9This is a fourth working flowchart of the controller in the refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention. The controller is configured to execute steps S31 to S37. Steps S31 to S37 are the working process of the heating wire 107. During the period when the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are closed, in order to enhance the purification effect of the photocatalyst module 104, the heating wire 107 is activated, so that the photocatalyst module 104 enhances the purification effect of the gas in the first air duct 11 in a high-temperature environment.

[0083] Specifically, the controller in the refrigerator is further configured to: acquire the real-time odor gas concentration detected by the gas sensor 103; search for the corresponding target odor level among a number of preset odor levels based on the real-time odor gas concentration, and acquire the target operating mode of the ion generator 105 based on the target odor level; wherein each odor level corresponds to an operating mode of the ion generator; and control the ion generator 105 to operate according to the target operating mode.

[0084] For example, see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is the fifth workflow diagram of the controller in the refrigerator provided in the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller is configured to execute steps S41 to S44.

[0085] Specifically, the set concentration threshold is the lower limit of the lowest odor level among several odor levels. The odor levels are divided into low odor level, medium odor level, and high odor level as the concentration increases. Through research on the response of gas sensors to the odors of different foods and human sensory studies, the odors are divided into three different odor levels according to the output signal of the gas sensors. For example, X1 (set concentration threshold) to X1 is a low odor level, represented by odor level A; X1 to X2 is a medium odor level, represented by odor level B; and X2 to X3 is a high odor level, represented by odor level C. Among them, level A is basically odorless, level B is slightly odorous, and level C is obviously odorous. When the air in the refrigerator compartment is evenly distributed to the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12 by the main fan 108, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are in the open state. The air flows through the gas sensor 103, which senses the odor situation in the refrigerator in real time. The controller controls the ion generator 105 to work according to the mode in Table 1 below based on the odor level sensed by the gas sensor 103 (the ion generator easily produces ozone, which has a good deodorizing effect, but ozone is harmful to the human body, so control rules are needed to control it). That is, when the sensor judges the odor level to be A, the ion device is controlled to operate according to the rules of operating mode a. After the T1 cycle is completed, it enters idle mode. If the sensor senses the odor to be B or C during the period, the ion device is immediately controlled to operate according to the rules of operating mode b or operating mode c. The three processes corresponding to operating modes a to c share the same cycle count. When there is a change in odor level, as long as the cumulative cycle count is greater than or equal to the cycle count requirement in the process corresponding to the current odor level, it will immediately enter the idle state corresponding to the current odor level, and the cumulative total cycle count will be cleared to zero.

[0086] Table 1. Operating modes of the ion generator

[0087]

[0088] In the first embodiment, there is only one set duration threshold. That is, the gas sensor 103 will determine that there is a risk of passivation when the cumulative running time of the gas sensor 103 exceeds the set concentration threshold. At this time, the photocatalyst module 104 will operate at its fixed working intensity to purify the odor gas in the first air duct 11.

[0089] For example, when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor 103 in an environment with a concentration greater than the set threshold exceeds the set time threshold, it indicates that the gas sensor 103 is at risk of passivation. In this case, the gas sensor 103 needs clean air to recover. At this time, the first damper 101 and the second damper 102 are closed; the photocatalyst module 104 operates at its fixed working intensity to purify the odorous air in the first air duct 11; simultaneously, the heating wire 107 is turned on, and the purification fan 106 starts running, circulating the purified clean air in the first air duct 11, allowing the gas sensor 103 to quickly regain its sensitivity. During the recovery period of the gas sensor 103, the ion generator 105 operates according to corresponding rules, and air is delivered to the ion generator 105 through the second air duct 12 for odor removal. Therefore, the odor removal function of the refrigerator is not affected during the recovery period of the gas sensor 103. When the catalytic time of the photocatalyst module 104 reaches the preset time, the heating wire 107 and the photocatalyst module 104 stop working, the purification fan 106 is turned off, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are opened, and the air from the main fan 108 passes evenly through the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. The gas sensor 103 senses the odor level and then controls the ion generator 105 to operate according to the corresponding rules.

[0090] In the second embodiment, there are multiple set duration thresholds, each corresponding to one of the odor levels, and the set duration thresholds are inversely proportional to the odor levels. The set duration thresholds include a first set duration threshold, a second set duration threshold, and a third set duration threshold. The high odor level corresponds to the first set duration threshold, the medium odor level corresponds to the second set duration threshold, and the low odor level corresponds to the third set duration threshold; wherein the first set duration threshold < the second set duration threshold < the third set duration threshold. The controller is further configured to: when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at the high odor level reaches the first set duration threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at a third intensity; when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at the medium odor level reaches the second set duration threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at a second intensity; when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at the low odor level reaches the third set duration threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at a first intensity; the first intensity < the second intensity < the third intensity.

[0091] For example, depending on the odor level, the photocatalyst module also has its corresponding operating intensity. If the odor level is low, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the first intensity Y1; if the odor level is medium, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the second intensity Y2; if the odor level is high C, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the third intensity Y3, where Y1 < Y2 < Y3.

[0092] Specifically, the second implementation method will be illustrated with a concrete example:

[0093] The gas sensor 103 will become deactivated when the cumulative time reaches the third preset time threshold Zmaxa under Class A odor conditions, requiring a period of time (Zta, catalytic time threshold) in clean air to recover; it will become deactivated when the cumulative time reaches the second preset time threshold Zmaxb under Class B odor conditions, requiring a period of time (Ztb, catalytic time threshold) in clean air to recover; and it will become deactivated when the cumulative time reaches the first preset time threshold Zmaxc under Class C odor conditions, requiring a period of time (Ztc, catalytic time threshold) in clean air to recover. The first preset time threshold Zmaxc < the second preset time threshold Zmaxb < the third preset time threshold Zmaxa. The values ​​of the catalytic time thresholds Zta, Ztb, and Ztc can be equal or unequal; these settings can be obtained through laboratory testing and are not specifically limited here. While the gas sensor 103 monitors the odor inside the refrigerator in real time, the system records the time (Za) for Class A odor, the time (Zb) for Class B odor, and the time (Zc) for Class C odor, with the following four scenarios:

[0094] ① If the gas sensor 103 remains in a Class C environment for an extended period exceeding the first preset time threshold Zmaxc (i.e., Zc ≥ Zmaxc), it indicates a risk of passivation for the gas sensor 103. In this case, the gas sensor 103 requires clean air for recovery. At this time, the first damper 101 and the second damper 102 are closed; the photocatalyst module 104 operates at intensity Y3 to purify the odorous air in the first air duct 11; simultaneously, the heating wire 107 is turned on, controlling the temperature at W3 (higher temperature is beneficial for sensor recovery); the purification fan 106 starts running, circulating the purified clean air in the first air duct 11, allowing the gas sensor 103 to quickly regain sensitivity. During the recovery period of the gas sensor 103, the ion generator 105 continues to operate according to Class C rules. Air is delivered to the ion generator 105 via the second air duct 12 for odor removal. Therefore, the odor removal function of the refrigerator is not affected during the recovery period of the gas sensor 103. When the catalytic time of the photocatalyst module 104 reaches Ztc, the heating wire 107 and the photocatalyst module 104 stop working, the purification fan 106 is turned off, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are opened, and the air from the main fan 108 passes evenly through the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. The gas sensor 103 detects the odor level and then controls the ion generator 105 to operate according to the corresponding rules.

[0095] ② If the gas sensor 103 remains in a Class B environment for an extended period exceeding the second preset time threshold Zmaxb (i.e., Zb ≥ Zmaxb), it indicates a risk of passivation for the gas sensor 103. In this case, the gas sensor 103 requires clean air for recovery. At this time, the first damper 101 and the second damper 102 are closed; the photocatalyst module 104 operates at intensity Y2 to purify the odorous air in the first air duct 11; simultaneously, the heating wire 107 is turned on, controlling the temperature at W2 (W2 is less than or equal to W1); the purification fan 106 starts running, circulating the purified clean air in the first air duct 11, allowing the gas sensor 103 to quickly regain its sensitivity. During the recovery period of the gas sensor 103, the ion generator 105 continues to operate according to Class C rules. Air is delivered to the ion generator 105 via the second air duct 12 for odor removal. Therefore, the odor removal function of the refrigerator is not affected during the recovery period of the gas sensor 103. When the catalytic time of the photocatalyst module 104 reaches Ztb, the heating wire 107 and the photocatalyst module 104 stop working, the purification fan 106 is turned off, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are opened, and the air from the main fan 108 passes evenly through the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. The gas sensor 103 detects the odor level and then controls the ion generator 105 to operate according to the corresponding rules.

[0096] ③ If the gas sensor 103 remains in a Class A environment for an extended period exceeding the first set time threshold Zmaxa (i.e., Za ≥ Zmaxa), it indicates a risk of passivation for the gas sensor 103. In this case, the gas sensor 103 requires clean air for recovery. At this time, the first damper 101 and the second damper 102 are closed; the photocatalyst module 104 operates at intensity Y1 to purify the odorous air in the first air duct 11; simultaneously, the heating wire 107 is turned on, controlling the temperature at W1 (W1 < or equal to W2); the purification fan 106 starts running, circulating the purified clean air in the first air duct 11, allowing the gas sensor 103 to quickly regain its sensitivity. During the recovery period of the gas sensor 103, the ion generator 105 continues to operate according to Class C rules. Air is delivered to the ion generator 105 via the second air duct 12 for odor removal. Therefore, the odor removal function of the refrigerator is not affected during the recovery period of the gas sensor 103. When the catalytic time of the photocatalyst module 104 reaches Zta, the heating wire 107 and the photocatalyst module 104 stop working, the purification fan 106 is turned off, the first air damper 101 and the second air damper 102 are opened, and the air from the main fan 108 passes evenly through the first air duct 11 and the second air duct 12. The gas sensor 103 detects the odor level and then controls the ion generator 105 to operate according to the corresponding rules.

[0097] ④ If the odor level switches between C, B, and A, the system determines whether the sensor enters recovery mode according to the following rules: When (Za / 3 + Zb / 2 + Zc) ≥ Zmaxc, the system determines that it should recover using the recovery method if the gas sensor is always at level C. The system will also operate according to the corresponding level rule based on the odor level at the moment the sensor enters recovery mode. If the odor level switches between B and A, the system determines whether the sensor enters recovery mode according to the following rules: When (Za / 2 + Zb) ≥ Zmaxb, the system determines that it should recover using the recovery method if the gas sensor is always at level B. The system will also operate according to the corresponding level rule based on the odor level at the moment the sensor enters recovery mode.

[0098] After the gas sensor 103 is restored as described above, the system records that the time Za for the sensor is at odor level A, the time Zb for level B, and the time Zc for level C are all reset to zero, and the timing starts again.

[0099] Compared to existing technologies, the refrigerator disclosed in this invention features an additional first air duct with dampers at both ends within the air duct leading to the refrigerator compartment. A gas sensor and a photocatalytic module are installed within this first air duct, and an ion generator is installed within the refrigerator compartment. Both the photocatalytic module and the ion generator are used to purify odor gases. When the gas sensor is operating normally, the photocatalytic module is off, and the dampers in the first air duct and the ion generator are on, purifying the refrigerator compartment through the ion generator. When the gas sensor is at risk of passivation, the dampers in the first air duct close, and the photocatalytic module activates to purify the odor gases within the first air duct, restoring the gas sensor's sensitivity. During this period, the ion generator continues to operate to purify the odor gases in the refrigerator compartment. This invention can restore the gas sensor's sensitivity in a timely manner based on the degree of odor impact on the gas sensor, without affecting the refrigerator's odor-removing effect.

[0100] See Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a refrigerator odor purification method provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator has a first air duct communicating with the refrigerator compartment, and the first air duct has a first air damper and a second air damper. A gas sensor and a photocatalyst module are disposed between the first air damper and the second air damper. The gas sensor is used to detect the concentration of odor gas flowing into the refrigerator compartment, and the photocatalyst module is used to purify the odor gas in the first air duct through photocatalysis. An ion generator is disposed in the refrigerator compartment to generate ozone to purify the odor gas in the refrigerator compartment. Therefore, the refrigerator odor purification method includes:

[0101] The cumulative operating time of the gas sensor when it operates in an odor concentration environment is obtained; wherein, the odor concentration environment is when the odor gas concentration in the storage room is greater than a set concentration threshold.

[0102] When the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold, the first air damper, the second air damper and the ion generator are kept open, and the photocatalyst module is kept closed, so that the ion generator can purify the odor gas in the storage room.

[0103] When the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, the first and second air dampers are closed, and the photocatalyst module is activated to purify the odor gas in the first air duct.

[0104] Specifically, the method further includes: after the photocatalyst module is started, obtaining the photocatalytic duration of the photocatalyst module after this start; when the photocatalytic duration is greater than a preset catalytic duration threshold, controlling the first damper and the second damper to open, and shutting down the photocatalyst module.

[0105] Specifically, the refrigerator further includes: a purification fan, disposed within the first air duct and installed between the first air damper and the second air damper, for causing gas to flow within the first air duct; therefore, the method further includes:

[0106] When the cumulative running time does not reach the preset set time threshold, the purification fan is controlled to remain off; when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, the purification fan is controlled to turn on; when the photocatalysis time exceeds the preset catalysis time threshold, the purification fan is controlled to turn off.

[0107] Specifically, the refrigerator further includes: a heating wire disposed within the first air duct and installed between the first air damper and the second air damper, used to generate heat to accelerate the catalytic effect of the photocatalyst module; therefore, the method further includes:

[0108] When the cumulative running time does not reach the preset time threshold, the heating wire is kept off; when the cumulative running time reaches the preset time threshold, the heating wire is turned on; when the photocatalysis time exceeds the preset catalysis time threshold, the heating wire is turned off.

[0109] Specifically, the refrigerator also includes:

[0110] The second air duct is connected to the refrigerator compartment;

[0111] The main air duct is connected to the first air duct and the second air duct;

[0112] A main fan, located within the main air duct and close to the first and second air ducts, is used to transmit cold air after heat exchange from the evaporator to the first and / or second air ducts, so that the cold air reaches the refrigerator compartment through the first and / or second air ducts; then, the method further includes: controlling the main fan to remain on when the refrigerator is in the cooling operation phase.

[0113] Specifically, the method further includes: acquiring the real-time odor gas concentration detected by the gas sensor; searching for a corresponding target odor level among a preset number of odor levels based on the real-time odor gas concentration, and acquiring a target operating mode of the ion generator based on the target odor level; wherein each odor level corresponds to an operating mode of the ion generator; and controlling the ion generator to operate according to the target operating mode.

[0114] Specifically, the set concentration threshold is the lower limit of the lowest odor level among several odor levels, the set duration threshold corresponds one-to-one with the odor level, and the set duration threshold is inversely proportional to the odor level.

[0115] Specifically, the odor levels are divided into low odor level, medium odor level, and high odor level according to the concentration from low to high. The set duration thresholds include a first set duration threshold, a second set duration threshold, and a third set duration threshold. The high odor level corresponds to the first set duration threshold, the medium odor level corresponds to the second set duration threshold, and the low odor level corresponds to the third set duration threshold; wherein the first set duration threshold < the second set duration threshold < the third set duration threshold; then, the method further includes:

[0116] When the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at a high odor level reaches the first set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the third intensity; when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at a medium odor level reaches the second set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the second intensity; when the cumulative operating time of the gas sensor at a low odor level reaches the third set time threshold, the photocatalyst module is controlled to operate at the first intensity; the first intensity < the second intensity < the third intensity.

[0117] It is worth noting that the specific working process of the refrigerator odor purification method described in the embodiments of the present invention can refer to the working process of the controller in the refrigerator described in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0118] Compared to existing technologies, the refrigerator odor purification method disclosed in this invention includes an additional first air duct with dampers at both ends, located within the air duct leading to the refrigerator compartment. A gas sensor and a photocatalytic module are installed within this first air duct, and an ion generator is installed inside the refrigerator compartment. Both the photocatalytic module and the ion generator are used to purify odor gases. When the gas sensor is operating normally, the photocatalytic module is off, and the dampers in the first air duct and the ion generator are on, purifying the refrigerator compartment through the ion generator. When the gas sensor is at risk of passivation, the dampers in the first air duct close, and the photocatalytic module activates to purify the odor gases within the first air duct, restoring the gas sensor's sensitivity. During this period, the ion generator continues to operate to purify the odor gases in the refrigerator compartment. This invention can restore the sensitivity of the gas sensor in a timely manner according to the degree of odor impact on the gas sensor, without affecting the refrigerator's odor purification effect.

[0119] The above description represents the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A refrigerator characterized by comprising: The refrigerator comprises: a cabinet in which a storage compartment is formed, the storage compartment including at least a refrigeration compartment; a first air duct provided in an air duct communicating with the refrigeration compartment, the first air duct being provided with a first air door and a second air door; a gas sensor provided between the first air door and the second air door for detecting the concentration of odor gas flowing into the storage compartment; a photocatalyst module provided between the first air door and the second air door for purifying odor gas in the first air duct through photocatalysis; an ion generator provided in the storage compartment for generating ozone to purify odor gas in the storage compartment; a controller configured to: obtain the cumulative running time when the gas sensor operates in an odor concentration environment, wherein the odor concentration environment is an environment in which the concentration of odor gas in the storage compartment is greater than a set concentration threshold; when the cumulative running time does not reach a preset set time threshold, control the first air door, the second air door and the ion generator to remain in an open state, and control the photocatalyst module to remain in a closed state, so that the ion generator purifies the odor gas in the storage compartment; when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, control the first air door and the second air door to be closed, and start the photocatalyst module, so that the photocatalyst module purifies the odor gas in the first air duct.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is further configured to: after the photocatalyst module is started, obtain the photocatalytic time of the photocatalyst module after this start; when the photocatalytic time is greater than a preset catalytic time threshold, control the first air door and the second air door to be opened, and control the photocatalyst module to be closed.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein The refrigerator further comprises: a purification fan provided in the first air duct and installed between the first air door and the second air door for flowing gas in the first air duct; then, the controller is further configured to: when the cumulative running time does not reach a preset set time threshold, control the purification fan to remain in a closed state; when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, control the purification fan to be opened; when the photocatalytic time is greater than a preset catalytic time threshold, control the purification fan to be closed.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein The refrigerator further comprises: a heating wire provided in the first air duct and installed between the first air door and the second air door for heating to accelerate the catalytic action of the photocatalyst module; then, the controller is further configured to: when the cumulative running time does not reach a preset set time threshold, control the heating wire to remain in a closed state; when the cumulative running time reaches the set time threshold, control the heating wire to be opened; when the photocatalytic time is greater than a preset catalytic time threshold, control the heating wire to be closed.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The refrigerator further comprises: a second air duct communicating with the refrigeration compartment; a main air duct communicating with the first air duct and the second air duct; A main air fan is arranged in the main air duct and close to the first air duct and the second air duct, and is used to transmit the cold air after heat exchange in the evaporator to the first air duct and / or the second air duct, so that the cold air reaches the refrigerating chamber through the first air duct and / or the second air duct; The controller is further configured to: control the main air fan to keep open state when the refrigerator is in the refrigeration operation stage.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The controller is further configured to: acquire the real-time odor gas concentration detected by the gas sensor; find the corresponding target odor level from a plurality of preset odor levels according to the real-time odor gas concentration, and acquire the target operation mode of the ion generator according to the target odor level; each odor level corresponds to an operation mode of the ion generator; control the ion generator to operate according to the target operation mode.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, wherein The set concentration threshold is the lower limit value of the lowest odor level in the plurality of odor levels, the set time length threshold corresponds to the odor level one by one, and the set time length threshold and the odor level are in inverse proportion.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein The odor levels are divided into low odor level, medium odor level and high odor level from low to high, the set time length threshold includes first set time length threshold, second set time length threshold and third set time length threshold, the high odor level corresponds to the first set time length threshold, the medium odor level corresponds to the second set time length threshold, and the low odor level corresponds to the third set time length threshold; first set time length threshold < second set time length threshold < third set time length threshold; the controller is further configured to: when the cumulative operation time length of the gas sensor operating in the high odor level reaches the first set time length threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at the third intensity; when the cumulative operation time length of the gas sensor operating in the medium odor level reaches the second set time length threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at the second intensity; when the cumulative operation time length of the gas sensor operating in the low odor level reaches the third set time length threshold, control the photocatalyst module to operate at the first intensity; first intensity < second intensity < third intensity.

9. A method for purifying odor of a refrigerator, characterized by, The refrigerator is provided with a first air duct communicating with the refrigerating chamber, and the first air duct is provided with a first air door and a second air door; the gas sensor and the photocatalyst module are arranged between the first air door and the second air door, the gas sensor is used to detect the concentration of odor gas flowing into the refrigerating chamber, and the photocatalyst module is used to purify the odor gas in the first air duct through photocatalysis; the ion generator is arranged in the refrigerating chamber and is used to generate ozone to purify the odor gas in the refrigerating chamber; the refrigerator odor purification method comprises: acquire the cumulative operation time length of the gas sensor operating in the odor concentration environment; wherein the odor concentration environment is that the odor gas concentration in the refrigerating chamber is greater than the set concentration threshold; When the accumulated running time length does not reach the preset setting time length threshold, the first air door, the second air door and the ion generator are controlled to remain in the open state, and the photocatalyst module is controlled to remain in the closed state, so that the ion generator purifies the odor gas in the storage chamber; When the accumulated running time length reaches the setting time length threshold, the first air door and the second air door are controlled to be closed, and the photocatalyst module is started, so that the photocatalyst module purifies the odor gas in the first air duct.

10. The malodor scavenging method of claim 9, wherein, The method further comprises: After the photocatalyst module is started, the photocatalytic time length of the photocatalyst module after this start is obtained; When the photocatalytic time length is greater than a preset catalytic time length threshold, the first air door and the second air door are controlled to be opened, and the photocatalyst module is closed.

Images