A method for preventing ice blockage of a water inlet of a refrigerator and ice making system

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of ice maker and ice system's ice blocking control method of water injection port.The refrigerator is equipped with ice making system, and ice making system includes ice making mechanism and water injection mechanism;Water injection port of water injection pipe in water injection mechanism is equipped with first metal electrode and second metal electrode with interval preset distance.Heater is arranged on the surface of the water injection port, for executing heating operation when starting operation.When there is ice making demand, in response to preset ice making control instruction, the heater is controlled to start operation;The resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is detected;According to the comparison relationship between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted or the heater is controlled to stop running.By using the application, the difference in insulation characteristics between water and air can be used to accurately determine whether water remains in the water injection port of the ice making system, and timely measures can be taken when water remains in the water injection port to prevent ice blocking in the water injection port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ice-making control technology, and in particular to a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of a refrigerator and ice-making system. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of technology, refrigerator functions have become more diversified, and the demand for refrigerators with ice-making functions has gradually increased. The refrigerator is equipped with an ice-making system, which introduces water from the water storage box into the ice-making box through a water inlet pipe, and then the water is cooled by the refrigeration system to produce ice.

[0003] However, the inventors discovered that the existing technology has at least the following problems: the temperature of the ice-making system is low during the ice-making process. When water is poured in, if water remains at the water inlet, it will freeze into ice after being cooled by the refrigeration system. After repeated water pouring, this ice will gradually accumulate and grow, eventually blocking the water inlet. Ice blockage at the water inlet will prevent successful water pouring, thus hindering continuous ice making and affecting the normal operation of the ice maker. Therefore, inspecting the water inlet of the ice-making system and promptly implementing appropriate solutions when ice blockage is detected or the possibility of ice blockage is found is crucial for the normal operation of the ice-making process. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of a refrigerator and ice-making system. This method can accurately determine whether there is residual water at the water inlet of the ice-making system by utilizing the difference in insulation properties between water and air, and take timely measures when there is residual water at the water inlet to avoid ice blockage.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of the present invention provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0006] Box;

[0007] An ice-making system is located inside the box. The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism and a water injection mechanism. In the water injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a predetermined distance from the water injection port of the water injection pipe.

[0008] A heater is provided on the surface of the water inlet for performing a heating operation during startup.

[0009] Controller, used for:

[0010] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation;

[0011] The resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is detected;

[0012] Based on the comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold, the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted or the heater is controlled to stop operating.

[0013] As an improvement to the above solution, the operating parameters of the heater are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater are the on-time of the heater in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time. Alternatively, the operating parameters of the heater are the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power.

[0014] Then, the step of controlling the heater to start operation in response to a preset ice-making control command specifically involves:

[0015] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level;

[0016] Then, adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes:

[0017] When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold.

[0018] When the cumulative runtime exceeds the preset runtime threshold, it is determined whether the heater is in the last operating position.

[0019] If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater.

[0020] If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level;

[0021] When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

[0022] As an improvement to the above solution, the step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold further includes:

[0023] When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period.

[0024] After the heater is stopped, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, then control the heater to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating level is greater than the preset running time threshold.

[0025] As an improvement to the above solution, the water injection mechanism further includes a water supply pump and a water storage tank, and the controller is also used for:

[0026] When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0027] After a second preset time period, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained and used as the second resistance value;

[0028] When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time.

[0029] After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are repeated: the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0030] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is also used for:

[0031] The number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism is counted;

[0032] When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm message is pushed out.

[0033] This invention also provides a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system. The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism, a water injection mechanism, and a heater. In the water injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a predetermined distance from the water inlet of the water injection pipe. The heater is disposed on the surface of the water inlet and is used to perform a heating operation during startup.

[0034] The method includes:

[0035] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation;

[0036] The resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is detected;

[0037] Based on the comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold, the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted or the heater is controlled to stop operating.

[0038] As an improvement to the above solution, the operating parameters of the heater are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater are the on-time of the heater in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time. Alternatively, the operating parameters of the heater are the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power.

[0039] Then, the step of controlling the heater to start operation in response to a preset ice-making control command specifically involves:

[0040] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level;

[0041] Then, adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes:

[0042] When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold.

[0043] When the cumulative runtime exceeds the preset runtime threshold, it is determined whether the heater is in the last operating position.

[0044] If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater.

[0045] If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level;

[0046] When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

[0047] As an improvement to the above solution, the step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold further includes:

[0048] When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period.

[0049] After the heater is stopped, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, then control the heater to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating level is greater than the preset running time threshold.

[0050] As an improvement to the above solution, the water injection mechanism further includes a water supply pump and a water storage box, and the method further includes:

[0051] When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0052] After a second preset time period, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained and used as the second resistance value;

[0053] When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time.

[0054] After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are repeated: the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0055] As an improvement to the above solution, the method further includes:

[0056] The number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism is counted;

[0057] When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm message is pushed out.

[0058] Compared with existing technologies, the present invention discloses a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of a refrigerator and ice-making system. The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism and a water-injection mechanism. In the water-injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a preset distance from the water inlet of the water inlet pipe. A heater is provided on the surface of the water inlet for performing heating operations during startup. When ice-making is required, in response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is started; the resistance value between the first and second metal electrodes is detected; and the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted or the heater is stopped based on a comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold. By using the technical means of this invention, the resistance value between the two metal electrodes is detected, and the difference in the insulating properties of water, ice, and air is utilized to accurately determine whether there is residual water or ice blockage at the water inlet of the ice-making system. When residual water or ice blockage occurs at the water inlet, measures are taken to heat the water inlet to evaporate the water and melt the ice blockage, thus preventing ice blockage and ensuring the normal operation of the ice-making function. Furthermore, the present invention can control the operating parameters of the heater according to the detected resistance value, thereby achieving on-demand heating. This not only effectively eliminates residual water and ice near the water inlet and improves the efficiency of eliminating residual water and ice, but also reduces the consumption of excessive heat sources to a certain extent. Attached Figure Description

[0059] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making system in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the work performed by the controller in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the work performed by the controller in the second implementation of this invention.

[0064] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making system in the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the work performed by the controller in the third implementation of this invention.

[0066] Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system according to an embodiment of the present invention, under a first implementation.

[0067] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system under a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a third embodiment of an ice-making system's water inlet anti-ice-blocking control method provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0069] 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.

[0070] See Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The present invention provides a refrigerator 10, including a cabinet 11, wherein the cabinet 11 is provided with at least one storage compartment, such as a refrigerator compartment and / or a freezer compartment, for storing items requiring preservation or freezing. The refrigerator also includes a refrigeration system for performing the refrigeration operation.

[0071] It should be noted that the refrigerator operates through the refrigeration system, providing cooling capacity to the storage compartment to maintain it at a constant low temperature. Specifically, the refrigeration system of the refrigerator in this embodiment consists of a compressor, a condenser, a dryer filter, a capillary tube, and an evaporator. The operation of the refrigeration system includes a compression process, a condensation process, a throttling process, and an evaporation process.

[0072] The compression process is as follows: When the refrigerator is plugged in and there is a need for cooling, the compressor starts working. Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into the compressor and compressed into high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas in the compressor cylinder before being discharged into the condenser. The condensation process is as follows: The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipates heat through the condenser, and its temperature continuously decreases until it is gradually cooled into room-temperature, high-pressure saturated vapor, and further cooled into saturated liquid. The temperature at this point is no longer decreasing; this temperature is called the condensation temperature. The pressure of the refrigerant remains almost constant throughout the entire condensation process. The throttling process is as follows: After condensation, the saturated refrigerant liquid is filtered through a dryer to remove moisture and impurities before flowing into a capillary tube. Through this tube, it undergoes throttling and pressure reduction, turning the refrigerant into room-temperature, low-pressure wet vapor. The evaporation process is as follows: Subsequently, the refrigerant begins to absorb heat and vaporize in the evaporator, 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 exiting the evaporator returns to the compressor, repeating the above process to transfer heat from inside the refrigerator to the outside air, thus achieving the purpose of cooling.

[0073] In this embodiment of the invention, the refrigerator 10 further includes an ice-making system 12, which is disposed inside the refrigerator body 11. See also Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making system in a first embodiment of the present invention. The ice-making system 12 includes an ice-making mechanism 13 and a water-injection mechanism 14. The water-injection mechanism 14 includes a water-injection pipe 141, which can be connected to an external water source or to a water storage box inside the refrigerator, for introducing water into the ice-making mechanism 13. The ice-making mechanism 13 is used to perform a preset ice-making operation, thereby turning the water introduced by the water-injection mechanism 14 into ice cubes.

[0074] It should be noted that the ice-making mechanism 13 also includes an ice maker sensor 131, an ice container 132, an ice probe 133, an ice-turning motor 134, and an ice storage box 135. The ice maker sensor 131 detects the temperature of the ice container, allowing the controller to determine whether ice making is complete based on the temperature of the ice container 132. The ice container 132 holds the water introduced by the water injection mechanism 14 and temporarily holds the ice formed during the refrigeration operation of the ice-making system 12. The ice probe 133 detects whether the ice storage box 135 is full. The ice-turning motor 134 controls the ice container to turn over when the ice storage box 135 is not full, allowing the ice in the ice container to fall into the ice storage box 135.

[0075] The ice-making system 12 also includes a refrigeration system for cooling and providing cold energy to the ice-making container to freeze the water in the container into ice. It should be noted that the refrigeration system of the ice-making system 12 includes components such as a compressor, a dryer filter, a condenser, a capillary tube, an evaporator, a one-way valve, and a solenoid valve. The compressor provides power to the refrigeration system; in this embodiment, the compressor of the ice-making system can be shared with the compressor in the refrigerator's refrigeration system. The dryer filter filters out water and residue from the refrigeration system, ensuring stable ice-making operation; in this embodiment, the dryer filter of the ice-making system can be shared with the dryer filter in the refrigerator's refrigeration system. The condenser can be either air-cooled or water-cooled, mainly relying on a fan to remove excess heat and cool the high-temperature vaporous refrigerant into a liquid state, providing the necessary temperature for evaporation in the refrigeration system. In this embodiment, the condenser of the ice-making system can be shared with the condenser in the refrigerator's refrigeration system. The capillary tube throttles the liquid refrigerant to form vaporous refrigerant, providing conditions for evaporation in the refrigeration system, and can regulate the flow rate of the refrigerant in the refrigeration system. The main function of the evaporator is to absorb heat from the water and quickly freeze it into ice. Other components, such as check valves, are used to prevent refrigerant backflow and leakage; solenoid valves are used to control the refrigerant flow rate, speed, and pressure in the refrigeration system.

[0076] Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention, see... Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet structure in an embodiment of the present invention. A metal electrode 15 is installed at the water inlet of the water pipe 141 near the ice maker. The metal electrode 15 includes a first metal electrode 151 and a second metal electrode 152, with a preset distance between the two metal electrodes. The first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 can come into contact with air, water, or ice in the water inlet.

[0077] See Figure 2 The ice-making system 12 also includes a heater 16, which is disposed on the surface of the water inlet and is used to perform a heating operation during startup to heat the water inlet to evaporate residual water or melt ice blockages formed inside the water inlet. Optionally, the heater 16 is a heating wire attached to the outer surface of the water inlet, with a heating power range of 4~6W.

[0078] Understandably, different ice-making systems have slightly different structures and may have more accessories and fittings, but this does not constitute a limitation of the present invention.

[0079] Furthermore, the refrigerator 10 also includes a controller 17, which is connected to the ice-making mechanism 13, the water-filling mechanism 14, the metal electrode 15, and the heater 16. The first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 are connected to the controller 17 via wires. The controller 17 controls the water-filling mechanism 14 to perform water-filling operations, controls the ice-making mechanism 13 to perform ice-making operations, and controls the heater 16 to perform heating operations. The controller 17 also integrates a resistance detection module for real-time detection of the resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 installed near the water inlet.

[0080] See Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation performed by the controller in the first embodiment of the present invention. The controller 17 is used to execute steps S11 to S13:

[0081] S11. In response to a preset ice-making control command, control the heater to start operation;

[0082] S12. Detect the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode;

[0083] S13. Based on the comparison between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, adjust the operating parameters of the heater or control the heater to stop operating.

[0084] In this embodiment of the invention, when a user has an ice-making need, they send an ice-making control command to the controller 17 through a preset human-computer interaction system, such as a touch screen or voice module. The controller 17 responds to the ice-making control command and controls the ice-making system 12 to perform the corresponding ice-making operation. The ice-making program of the ice-making system 12 follows a cycle as follows: ice detection, ice probe, ice turning, and water injection. Simultaneously, the controller 17 also controls the heater 16 to start operating when the ice-making function begins, heating the water inlet.

[0085] Next, the built-in resistance detection module of the controller 17 detects the resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 in real time. Due to the difference in insulation properties between air and water / ice, when there is no residual water or ice at the inlet of the water injection pipe 141, or the residual water and ice are minimal, it can be assumed that the water injection pipe is filled with air. In this case, the measured resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 is relatively high. Conversely, when there is residual water or ice at the inlet of the water injection pipe 141, the measured resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 is relatively low. Therefore, by comparing the detected resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 with a preset resistance threshold, it can be determined whether there is significant residual water at the water injection port.

[0086] It should be noted that the resistance threshold can be set based on the resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 measured under dry conditions at the water inlet. The resistance threshold can be a single resistance value or a range of resistance values, neither of which constitutes a limitation on this solution.

[0087] Furthermore, based on the relationship between the detected resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 and the preset resistance threshold, the residual moisture at the water inlet is determined, and the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted accordingly, such as extending or shortening the heating time of the heater, increasing or decreasing the heating power of the heater, expanding or shrinking the heating range, etc., or controlling the heater to stop heating.

[0088] This invention provides a refrigerator with an ice-making system, comprising an ice-making mechanism and a water-filling mechanism. In the water-filling mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a predetermined distance from the water inlet of the water inlet pipe. A heater is provided on the surface of the water inlet for performing a heating operation during startup. When ice-making is required, in response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is started; the resistance value between the first and second metal electrodes is detected; and the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted or the heater is stopped based on a comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold. By using the technical means of this invention, by detecting the resistance value between the two metal electrodes and utilizing the difference in insulation properties between water, ice, and air, it accurately determines whether there is residual water or ice blockage at the water inlet of the ice-making system. When residual water or ice blockage occurs at the water inlet, measures are taken to heat the water inlet to evaporate the water or melt the ice blockage, thus avoiding the occurrence of ice blockage and ensuring the normal operation of the ice-making function. Furthermore, the present invention can control the operating parameters of the heater according to the detected resistance value, thereby achieving on-demand heating. This not only effectively eliminates residual water and ice near the water inlet and improves the efficiency of eliminating residual water and ice, but also reduces the consumption of excessive heat sources to a certain extent.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the operating parameters of the heater 16 are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater 16 are the on-time of the heater 16 in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time. Alternatively, the operating parameters of the heater 16 are the heating power of the heater 16, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power.

[0090] As an example, the operating parameter range of heater 16 is pre-divided into three operating levels.

[0091] In the first implementation, the operating parameter of heater 16 is the on-time of heater within each preset start-stop cycle. The duration of the start-stop cycle is pre-set, for example, 10 minutes per cycle. Within 10 minutes, the heater completes the preset start-up time and stops for the remaining time. The operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time. Therefore, in the first operating level, heater 16 operates for 6 minutes and stops for 4 minutes within each 10-minute start-stop cycle; in the second operating level, heater 16 operates for 7 minutes and stops for 3 minutes within each 10-minute start-stop cycle; in the third operating level, heater 16 operates for 8 minutes and stops for 2 minutes within each 10-minute start-stop cycle, and so on, until heater 16 is de-energized.

[0092] In the second embodiment, the operating parameter of heater 16 is the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power. Therefore, in the first operating level, the heating power of heater 16 is 4W; in the second operating level, the heating power of heater 16 is 5W; and in the third operating level, the heating power of heater 16 is 6W.

[0093] Understandably, the above division of the heater's operating levels and the setting of operating parameter types are only for reference. In practical applications, the operating levels of the heater can be divided more finely according to requirements, and the operating parameter types can also include the heater's heating range, etc., which do not constitute a limitation on this solution.

[0094] Then, see Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation performed by the controller in the second implementation of this invention. This embodiment further implements the previous embodiment. Step S11, namely, responding to a preset ice-making control command and controlling the heater to start operation, specifically involves:

[0095] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level.

[0096] Step S13, namely adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, specifically includes steps S131 to S135:

[0097] S131. When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold.

[0098] S132. When the cumulative running time exceeds the preset running time threshold, determine whether the heater is in the last operating position;

[0099] S133. If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater.

[0100] S134. If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level;

[0101] S135. When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

[0102] In this embodiment of the invention, the controller 17 responds to the ice-making control command and controls the ice-making system 12 to perform ice-making operations. Typically, the controller controls the heater 16 to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level. Furthermore, the controller calculates and updates the cumulative running time t of the heater 16 at the current operating level in real time.

[0103] Next, the controller 17 continuously monitors the resistance value R between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 at the water inlet and compares it with a preset resistance threshold Rs. If R < Rs, it indicates that there is significant residual moisture at the water inlet. Then, it further determines whether the cumulative running time of the heater 16 at the current operating level is greater than a preset running time threshold ts. If t > ts, it indicates that the heater 16, operating according to the current parameters, cannot effectively eliminate the residual moisture at the water inlet. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the operating level of the heater 16, controlling it to operate with the parameters corresponding to the second operating level. This increases the on-time of the heater 16 in each start-stop cycle or increases the heating power of the heater 16 to more efficiently eliminate residual moisture. This process continues until the heater 16 is currently at the last operating level, at which point the heater 16 is kept at the current operating level. If t ≤ ts, the heater 16 is kept at the current operating level until the residual moisture is eliminated, or the cumulative running time t > ts, at which point it switches to the next operating level as needed.

[0104] Preferably, step S13, namely adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, further includes steps S136 to S137:

[0105] S136. When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period.

[0106] S137. After controlling the heater to stop running, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, control the heater to start running with the running parameters corresponding to the first running position, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current running position is greater than the preset running time threshold.

[0107] Furthermore, if R ≥ Rs, indicating that there is no obvious water residue at the water inlet, the heater 16 is controlled to continue heating for a first preset time t1 before stopping operation. The controller 17 continues to monitor the resistance value R in real time until R < Rs is detected again. Then, the heater 16 is controlled to start operating at the first operating level, and the process jumps to step S131, adjusting its operating level according to the cumulative operating time of the heater 16, and repeating this cycle.

[0108] It should be noted that the controller 17 can detect the resistance value R between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 in real time, and adjust the operating parameters of the heater in real time according to the resistance value. Alternatively, a detection cycle can be preset, and the resistance value R can be detected at regular intervals, and the operating parameters of the heater can be adjusted according to the resistance value, without affecting the beneficial effects of the present invention.

[0109] By employing the technical means of this invention, the operating level of the heater is adjusted by combining the resistance value and the cumulative running time of the heater, thereby achieving on-demand heating. This not only effectively eliminates residual water and ice near the water inlet, improving the efficiency of eliminating residual water and ice and avoiding the occurrence of ice blockage at the water inlet, but also reduces the consumption of excessive heat sources to a certain extent.

[0110] For a preferred embodiment, see Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the ice-making system in a second embodiment of the present invention. Based on the structure of the ice-making system 12 proposed in the above embodiment, the water injection mechanism 14 further includes a water supply pump 142 and a water storage box 143. One end of the water supply pump 142 is connected to the outlet of the water storage box 143, and the other end of the water supply pump 142 is connected to the inlet of the water injection pipe 141. The outlet of the water injection pipe 141, i.e., the water inlet, is located above the ice-making box 132. The water storage box 143 is used to store water. When there is a need for water injection, the water supply pump 142 is turned on, and the water in the water storage box 143 is introduced into the water injection pipe 141, and then into the ice-making box 132 through the water injection pipe 141, completing the water injection operation.

[0111] See Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the work performed by the controller in a third implementation of the present invention. The controller 17 is also used to execute steps S21 to S24:

[0112] S21. When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0113] S22. After a second preset time period, obtain the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode, and use it as the second resistance value;

[0114] S23. When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time.

[0115] S24. After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are executed again: the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0116] In this embodiment of the invention, during the ice-making process of the ice-making system 12, when a water injection operation is required, the controller responds to the water injection control command. Before injecting water, it first obtains the resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 at the current moment, as the first resistance value R1. At this time, the water injection port is filled with air. Then, it controls the water injection mechanism 14 to perform the preset water injection operation. After water injection has been performed for a second preset time t2, the resistance value between the first metal electrode 151 and the second metal electrode 152 at the previous moment is obtained again, as the second resistance value R2. The relationship between the first resistance value R1 and the second resistance value R2 is compared. If R2 is less than R1, it indicates that after a period of water injection, the water injection port is filled with water, indicating successful water injection. If R2 ≥ R1, it indicates that after a period of water injection, the water injection port is still filled with air, indicating failed water injection.

[0117] When the water injection mechanism fails to inject water, the water supply pump 142 is controlled to rotate continuously for a third preset time t3, such as 6-10 seconds, and then stopped for 2-3 seconds. This operation can expel any residual air in the water supply pump 142 or the water injection pipe 141, reducing the internal pressure of the water supply pump 142 and preventing it from failing to pump water normally due to excessive internal pressure. Afterwards, the water supply pump 142 is controlled to rotate forward, and the current first resistance value R1 is reacquired. The water injection mechanism 14 is then controlled to re-execute the water injection operation, and the success of the water injection is further determined.

[0118] By employing the technical means of this invention, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode set on the water inlet before and after water injection is detected to determine whether water injection is successful. In the event of water injection failure, the water supply pump is promptly reversed to expel residual air, thus preventing the water supply pump from failing to pump water normally due to excessive internal pressure. This improves the working stability of the ice-making system and avoids abnormalities in the ice-making process.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, the controller is further configured to perform steps S25 to S26:

[0120] S25. Count the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism;

[0121] S26. When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm information push operation is executed.

[0122] In this embodiment of the invention, when the first water injection failure is detected, the number of consecutive water injection failures is set to one. If the next water injection failure is also detected, the number of consecutive water injection failures is incremented by one. When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, it indicates that the water storage box 143 may be in a water shortage state, or that the water injection mechanism 14 has malfunctioned. In either case, a preset alarm message push operation needs to be executed to remind the user to add water to the water storage box 143 or to check whether the water injection mechanism 14 has malfunctioned.

[0123] Understandably, by installing an alarm device on the refrigerator 10, preset alarm information can be pushed through the alarm device. For example, the alarm device can be a display panel installed on the refrigerator body, displaying preset alarm text information; the alarm device can also be an LED light panel installed on the refrigerator body, displaying preset light information; the alarm device can also be a sound module installed on the refrigerator body, playing preset voice prompts or alarm horns, etc., all without affecting the beneficial effects achieved by the present invention.

[0124] By employing the technical means of this invention, alarm information is promptly pushed out when water injection fails continuously, so as to remind users to add water or perform maintenance, effectively ensuring the normal operation of the ice-making system.

[0125] See Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system according to an embodiment of the present invention, under a first implementation. The present invention provides a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system, which can be applied to refrigerators, ice makers, and other equipment. The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism, a water injection mechanism, and a heater; in the water injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a predetermined distance from the water inlet of the water injection pipe; the heater is disposed on the surface of the water inlet and is used to perform a heating operation during startup.

[0126] The method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet is implemented through the following steps S31 to S33:

[0127] S31. In response to a preset ice-making control command, control the heater to start operation;

[0128] S32. Detect the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode;

[0129] S33. Based on the comparison between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, adjust the operating parameters of the heater or control the heater to stop operating.

[0130] By employing the technical means of this invention, the resistance value between two metal electrodes is detected. Utilizing the difference in insulation properties between water, ice, and air, the system accurately determines whether there is residual water or ice blockage at the water inlet of the ice-making system. When residual water or ice blockage occurs at the water inlet, measures are taken to heat the inlet to evaporate the water and melt the ice, preventing ice blockage and ensuring the normal operation of the ice-making function. Furthermore, this invention can control the operating parameters of the heater based on the detected resistance value, achieving on-demand heating. This not only effectively eliminates residual water and ice near the water inlet, improving the efficiency of eliminating residual water and ice, but also reduces excessive heat consumption to a certain extent.

[0131] In a preferred embodiment, the operating parameters of the heater are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater are the on-time of the heater in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time. Alternatively, the operating parameters of the heater are the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power.

[0132] Then, see Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Step S31, namely, responding to a preset ice-making control command and controlling the heater to start operation, specifically involves:

[0133] In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level;

[0134] Then, step S33, which is to adjust the operating parameters of the heater or control the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and the preset resistance threshold, specifically includes:

[0135] When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold.

[0136] When the cumulative runtime exceeds the preset runtime threshold, it is determined whether the heater is in the last operating position.

[0137] If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater.

[0138] If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level;

[0139] When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment, step S33, namely adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold, further includes:

[0141] When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period.

[0142] After the heater is stopped, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, then control the heater to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating level is greater than the preset running time threshold.

[0143] By employing the technical means of this invention, the operating level of the heater is adjusted by combining the resistance value and the cumulative running time of the heater, thereby achieving on-demand heating. This not only effectively eliminates residual water and ice near the water inlet, improving the efficiency of eliminating residual water and ice and avoiding the occurrence of ice blockage at the water inlet, but also reduces the consumption of excessive heat sources to a certain extent.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment, the water injection mechanism further includes a water supply pump and a water storage box, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10This is a schematic flowchart of a method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system, provided in an embodiment of the present invention, under a third implementation. The method further includes steps S41 to S44:

[0145] S41. When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0146] S42. After a second preset time period, obtain the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode, and use it as the second resistance value;

[0147] S43. When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time.

[0148] S44. After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are repeated: obtain the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode as the first resistance value, and control the water injection mechanism to perform a preset water injection operation.

[0149] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes steps S45 and S46:

[0150] S45. Count the number of times the water injection mechanism fails to inject water consecutively;

[0151] S46. When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm information push operation is executed.

[0152] By employing the technical means of this invention, the resistance value between the first and second metal electrodes set on the water inlet before and after water injection is detected to determine whether water injection is successful. Furthermore, in the event of water injection failure, the water supply pump is promptly reversed to expel residual air, preventing the pump from failing to pump water normally due to excessive internal pressure. This improves the operational stability of the ice-making system and avoids abnormalities in the ice-making process. Moreover, in the event of consecutive water injection failures, an alarm message is promptly sent to remind the user to add water or perform maintenance, effectively ensuring the normal operation of the ice-making system.

[0153] It should be noted that the ice-blocking control method for the water inlet of an ice-making system provided in this embodiment of the invention has the same process steps as the controller of a refrigerator in the above embodiment. The working principles and beneficial effects of the two are one-to-one, so they will not be described again.

[0154] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0155] 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 in that, include: Box; An ice-making system is located inside the box. The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism and a water injection mechanism. In the water injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a predetermined distance from the water injection port of the water injection pipe. A heater is provided on the surface of the water inlet for performing a heating operation during startup. Controller, used for: In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation; The resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is detected; Based on the comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold, adjust the operating parameters of the heater or control the heater to stop operating; The step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes: When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted according to the cumulative running time of the heater; when the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating. The water injection mechanism also includes a water supply pump and a water storage tank, and the controller is further used for: When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation. After a second preset time period, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained and used as the second resistance value; When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time. After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are repeated: the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The operating parameters of the heater are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater are the on-time of the heater in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time; or, the operating parameters of the heater are the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power. Then, the step of controlling the heater to start operation in response to a preset ice-making control command specifically involves: In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level; Then, adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes: When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold. When the cumulative runtime exceeds the preset runtime threshold, it is determined whether the heater is in the last operating position. If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater. If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level; When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold further includes: When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period. After the heater is stopped, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, then control the heater to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating level is greater than the preset running time threshold.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also used for: The number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism is counted; When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm message is pushed out.

5. A method for controlling ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system, characterized in that, The ice-making system includes an ice-making mechanism, a water injection mechanism, and a heater; in the water injection mechanism, a first metal electrode and a second metal electrode are provided at a preset distance from the water injection port of the water injection pipe; the heater is disposed on the surface of the water injection port and is used to perform a heating operation during startup. The method includes: In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation; The resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is detected; Based on the comparison between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold, adjust the operating parameters of the heater or control the heater to stop operating; The step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes: When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, the operating parameters of the heater are adjusted; when the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating. The water injection mechanism further includes a water supply pump and a water storage box, and the method further includes: When a preset water injection control command is received, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation. After a second preset time period, the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained and used as the second resistance value; When the second resistance value is greater than or equal to the first resistance value, it is determined that the water injection mechanism has failed to inject water, and the water supply pump is controlled to reverse and continue for a third preset time. After the water supply pump is controlled to reverse for a third preset time, the water supply pump is controlled to rotate forward, and the following steps are repeated: the resistance value between the first metal electrode and the second metal electrode is obtained as the first resistance value, and the water injection mechanism is controlled to perform a preset water injection operation.

6. The method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The operating parameters of the heater are pre-divided into several operating levels. The operating parameters of the heater are the on-time of the heater in each start-stop cycle, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding on-time; or, the operating parameters of the heater are the heating power of the heater, and the operating level is positively correlated with its corresponding heating power. Then, the step of controlling the heater to start operation in response to a preset ice-making control command specifically involves: In response to a preset ice-making control command, the heater is controlled to start operation with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level; Then, adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold specifically includes: When the resistance value is less than a preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating position is greater than a preset running time threshold. When the cumulative runtime exceeds the preset runtime threshold, it is determined whether the heater is in the last operating position. If so, maintain the current operating level of the heater. If not, control the heater to operate with the operating parameters corresponding to the next operating level; When the cumulative running time is less than or equal to the preset running time threshold, the current operating level of the heater remains unchanged.

7. The method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the operating parameters of the heater or controlling the heater to stop operating based on the comparison relationship between the resistance value and a preset resistance threshold further includes: When the resistance value is greater than or equal to the preset resistance threshold, the heater is controlled to stop operating after a first preset time period. After the heater is stopped, wait until the current resistance value is detected to be less than the preset resistance threshold, then control the heater to start running with the operating parameters corresponding to the first operating level, and re-execute the following steps: when the resistance value is less than the preset resistance threshold, determine whether the cumulative running time of the heater in the current operating level is greater than the preset running time threshold.

8. The method for preventing ice blockage at the water inlet of an ice-making system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: The number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism is counted; When the number of consecutive water injection failures of the water injection mechanism reaches a preset threshold, a preset alarm message is pushed out.

Images