Refrigerator and water taking control method of water dispenser thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a refrigerator and a water taking control method of a water dispenser of the refrigerator. The refrigerator comprises a cabinet, a water dispenser arranged on the cabinet, a water storage container, a water outlet valve and a first water outlet switch, and a controller. If an opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the controller controls the water outlet valve to open, and the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is calculated by increasing according to the time length of this time opening of the water outlet valve until the cumulative running time reaches a preset maximum opening time or a closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected. When the water outlet valve is in a closed state, the cumulative running time is calculated by decreasing according to a preset coefficient and the time length of this time closing of the water outlet valve. By adopting the embodiment of the application, the water valve can be prevented from running for a long time, the service life of the water valve is prolonged, and the stable operation of the refrigerator water taking system is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to a water dispensing control method for a refrigerator and its water dispenser. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, prolonged operation of water valves can easily lead to carbonization of the valve spool or damage and deformation of the flange support. Therefore, in existing technology, when the water dispenser's outlet valve continuously draws water for more than the specified time, it will forcibly close, requiring the user to release the water dispenser switch before drawing water again. While this method can reduce the failure rate of the outlet valve to some extent, the inventors discovered during implementation that in existing technology, when the water dispenser switch is released, the continuous operating time of the outlet valve is reset to zero. Even if the user releases the switch for a very short time, the outlet valve is still essentially operating continuously for an extended period, which can still damage the outlet valve and reduce its lifespan. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a water dispensing control method for a refrigerator and its water dispenser, which can avoid the water outlet valve from running for a long time, extend the service life of the water outlet valve, and ensure the stable operation of the refrigerator's water dispensing system.

[0004] The refrigerator provided in the first embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0005] Box;

[0006] The water dispenser mounted on the housing includes a water storage container, a water outlet valve, and a first water outlet switch.

[0007] Controller, used for:

[0008] If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the water outlet valve is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is incremented according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected.

[0009] When the outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the outlet valve being closed this time.

[0010] In the refrigerator provided in the first embodiment of the present invention, when the water outlet valve is in the closed state, the controller decreases the cumulative running time according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the water outlet valve being closed, rather than directly resetting it to zero when the water outlet valve is closed. Therefore, whether the water outlet valve is closed briefly or for a long time, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve can match the actual operating condition of the water outlet valve. Furthermore, during the opening process of the water outlet valve, the controller increases the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve according to the duration of the water outlet valve being open, and forces the water outlet valve to close when the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time. Therefore, for scenarios of continuous water dispensing or short-term release and re-pressing to dispense water, the water outlet valve can be prevented from running for a long time, thereby effectively extending the service life of the water outlet valve and ensuring the stable operation of the water dispenser.

[0011] The refrigerator provided in the second embodiment of the present invention further includes a second water outlet switch; the second water outlet switch is used to issue an opening signal containing a preset water dispensing amount when triggered;

[0012] Then, the controller is further configured to:

[0013] If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration.

[0014] If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration;

[0015] If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed.

[0016] In the refrigerator provided in the second embodiment of the present invention, when the controller detects the opening signal of the second water outlet switch, it needs to determine that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water dispensing time before it can open the water outlet valve. Therefore, the sum of the quantitative water dispensing time and the cumulative running time can be controlled within the preset maximum opening time, thereby avoiding the water outlet valve from running for too long.

[0017] In the third embodiment of the present invention, if the refrigerator determines that the difference is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, after controlling the water outlet valve to remain closed, the controller is further configured to:

[0018] The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

[0019] In the refrigerator provided in the third embodiment of the present invention, when the controller detects the opening signal of the second water outlet switch and determines that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, it needs to control the water outlet valve to remain closed until the difference reaches the quantitative water dispensing time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again, then the controller controls the water outlet valve to open for the quantitative water dispensing time. Therefore, the water outlet valve can be prevented from being damaged while meeting the user's quantitative water dispensing needs.

[0020] In the fourth embodiment of the refrigerator provided by the present invention, the controller is further configured to:

[0021] When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

[0022] In the refrigerator provided in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, since the controller controls the water outlet valve to remain closed within the preset protection time when it detects that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time, it can ensure that the water outlet valve can get enough cooling time and avoid the water outlet valve from burning out due to excessively high operating temperature when water is taken out next time.

[0023] The refrigerator provided in the fifth embodiment of the present invention further includes a prompting device;

[0024] When the cumulative runtime is detected to have reached the preset maximum on-time, the controller is further configured to:

[0025] The prompting device is controlled to issue a preset prompt.

[0026] In the refrigerator provided in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, when the controller detects that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time, it controls the prompting device to issue a preset prompt. Therefore, it can prompt the user that the current cumulative water dispensing time of the water dispenser is too long and that a waiting period is required, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0027] The sixth embodiment of the present invention provides a water dispensing control method for a water dispenser, the water dispenser including a water storage container, a water outlet valve, and a first water outlet switch, the method comprising:

[0028] If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the water outlet valve is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is incremented according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected.

[0029] When the outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the outlet valve being closed this time.

[0030] In the water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, when the water outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is decreased according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the water outlet valve being closed, rather than being directly reset to zero when the water outlet valve is closed. Therefore, whether the water outlet valve is closed briefly or for a long time, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve can match the actual operating condition of the water outlet valve. Furthermore, during the opening process of the water outlet valve, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is increased according to the duration of the water outlet valve being open, and the water outlet valve is forcibly closed when the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time. Therefore, for scenarios of continuous water dispensing or short-term release and re-pressing to dispense water, the water outlet valve can be prevented from running for a long time, thereby effectively extending the service life of the water outlet valve and ensuring the stable operation of the water dispenser.

[0031] The seventh embodiment of the present invention provides a water dispensing control method for a water dispenser, wherein the water dispenser further includes a second water dispensing switch; the second water dispensing switch is used to issue an opening signal containing a preset water dispensing volume when triggered; the method further includes:

[0032] If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration.

[0033] If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration;

[0034] If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed.

[0035] In the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in the seventh embodiment of the present invention, since when the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, it is necessary to determine that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water dispensing time before the water outlet valve can be opened, the sum of the quantitative water dispensing time and the cumulative running time can be controlled within the preset maximum opening time, thereby avoiding the water outlet valve from running for too long.

[0036] The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the eighth embodiment of the present invention further includes the following steps after controlling the water outlet valve to remain closed: If it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, the method further includes the following steps:

[0037] The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

[0038] In the water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the eighth embodiment of the present invention, when the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, and it is determined that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, the water outlet valve needs to be kept closed until the difference reaches the quantitative water dispensing time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water dispensing time. Therefore, the water outlet valve can be prevented from being damaged while meeting the user's quantitative water dispensing needs.

[0039] The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the ninth embodiment of the present invention further includes:

[0040] When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

[0041] In the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in the ninth embodiment of the present invention, since the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed within the preset protection time when the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, it can ensure that the water outlet valve can get enough cooling time and avoid the water outlet valve operating temperature being too high during the next water dispensing, thus preventing the water outlet valve from burning out.

[0042] The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the tenth embodiment of the present invention further includes, when it is detected that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum operating time, controlling the prompting device corresponding to the water dispenser to issue a preset prompt.

[0043] In the water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in the tenth embodiment of the present invention, when the cumulative running time is detected to have reached the preset maximum operating time, the corresponding prompting device of the water dispenser is controlled to issue a preset prompt. Therefore, the user is alerted that the current cumulative water dispensing time of the water dispenser is too long and a waiting period is required, thereby enhancing the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another refrigerator provided in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration system of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water dispenser for a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a timing signal diagram of a water dispenser continuously dispensing water, based on existing technology.

[0050] Figure 7 This is a timing signal diagram for the first type of water dispenser water dispensing control provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of water intake control using a first type of controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 9 This is a timing signal diagram for the second type of water dispenser water dispensing control provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of water intake control using a second type of controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit structure of another refrigerator provided in one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0056] 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. They 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0057] 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, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0058] 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.

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

[0060] The refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a cabinet 10. The cabinet 10 has at least one compartment. Specifically, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerator in this embodiment has an approximately rectangular shape. The refrigerator includes a cabinet 10 defining a storage space. The cabinet 10 has at least one compartment, and each compartment has one or more doors 200 at its opening. For example, in... Figure 2The upper compartment is a refrigerator compartment with a double door. The door 200 includes a door outer shell 210 on the outside of the cabinet 10, a door inner liner 220 on the inside of the cabinet 10, an upper end cover 230, a lower end cover 240, and an insulation layer between the door outer shell 210, door inner liner 220, upper end cover 230, and lower end cover 240. Typically, the insulation layer is filled with foam material. The compartments can be configured as refrigerator compartments, freezer compartments, or variable temperature compartments, depending on their purpose. The refrigerator also includes a refrigeration system for cooling the compartments within the cabinet 10. In an optional embodiment, see [link to optional embodiment]. Figure 3 The refrigeration system includes a compressor 1, a condenser 2, an anti-condensation tube 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. The compression process is as follows: Compressor 1 starts working, and low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into compressor 1. It is compressed into high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas in the cylinder of compressor 1 and then discharged into condenser 2. The condensation process is as follows: The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipates heat through condenser 2, and its temperature continuously decreases, gradually cooling into room-temperature, high-pressure saturated vapor, and further cooling 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 condensation process. The throttling process is as follows: The saturated liquid refrigerant after condensation flows into capillary tube 5 after being filtered by dryer filter 4 to remove moisture and impurities. Through capillary tube 5, it undergoes throttling and pressure reduction, turning the refrigerant into 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 evaporator 6, not only lowering the temperature of evaporator 6 and its surroundings but also turning the refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. The refrigerant exiting evaporator 6 passes through gas-liquid separator 7 and returns to compressor 1, repeating the above process to transfer heat from inside the refrigerator to the outside air, thus achieving the purpose of refrigeration.

[0061] The refrigerator also includes a water dispenser mounted on the refrigerator body. The water dispenser is generally located in the refrigerator compartment, either inside the compartment or on the door. Specifically, the water dispenser 20 includes a water storage container 11, a water outlet valve 12, and a first water outlet switch 13. See also... Figure 4The refrigerator also includes a filter element 17 and a water pipe 18. The filter element 17 is connected to an external water source through the water pipe 18. Water from the water source flows through the water pipe 18 and is filtered through the filter element 17 to remove impurities. Then, the filtered water is passed into the water storage container 11 for storage. When the water outlet valve 12 is opened, the water pressure from the water source draws water from the storage container 11 to the water outlet of the water dispenser 20, allowing the user to obtain water. Furthermore, a first water outlet switch 13 is located on the door housing 210. The first water outlet switch 13 is used to send a signal to control the opening or closing of the water outlet valve, causing the controller 14 to control the opening and closing of the water outlet valve 12. For example, when a user needs to take water, they press the first water outlet switch 13. The controller 14 receives the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 and controls the water outlet valve 12 to open, thus taking water. When the user finishes taking water, they press the first water outlet switch 13 again. The controller 14 receives the closing signal of the first water outlet switch 13 and controls the water outlet valve 12 to close, thus completing the water taking process.

[0062] The refrigerator provided in this embodiment of the invention also includes a controller 14. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the controller 14 is connected to the first water outlet switch 13 to receive the open and close signals from the first water outlet switch 13. Specifically, the controller 14 is used for:

[0063] If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 is detected, the water outlet valve 12 is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 is incremented according to the opening time of the water outlet valve 12 this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch 13 is detected.

[0064] When the outlet valve 12 is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the current closure of the outlet valve 12.

[0065] For example, the first water outlet switch 13 can be pre-configured as a water outlet switch capable of continuous water dispensing. Taking the first water outlet switch 13 as a push-button switch as an example, when the first water outlet switch 13 is pressed, an open signal is emitted; when the first water outlet switch 13 is released, a close signal is emitted. If the controller 14 detects the open signal of the first water outlet switch 13, the controller 14 controls the water outlet valve 12 to open, and the water in the water storage container 11 is led to the water outlet of the water dispenser 20 under the water pressure of the external water source. Until the controller 14 detects that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time or the close signal of the first water outlet switch 13, it controls the water outlet valve 12 to close, stopping water dispensing, and completing one continuous water dispensing cycle.

[0066] In the refrigerator provided in this embodiment, when the water outlet valve 12 is in the closed state, the controller 14 decreases the cumulative running time according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the water outlet valve 12 being closed, rather than directly resetting it to zero when the water outlet valve 12 is closed. Therefore, whether the water outlet valve 12 is closed briefly or for a long time, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 can match the actual operating condition of the water outlet valve 12. Furthermore, during the opening process of the water outlet valve 12, the controller 14 increases the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve 12, and forces the water outlet valve 12 to close when the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time. Therefore, for scenarios of continuous water dispensing or short-term release and re-pressing to dispense water, the water outlet valve 12 can be prevented from running for a long time, thereby effectively extending the service life of the water outlet valve 12 and ensuring the stable operation of the water dispenser 20.

[0067] It should be noted that in the existing technology, when the water outlet valve 12 of the refrigerator water dispenser 20 continuously dispenses water for more than the preset water dispensing limit, it will be forcibly closed. Although this protection mechanism has reduced the failure rate of the water outlet valve 12 in water dispensers 20 on the market, after the water outlet valve 12 is forcibly closed, as long as the user releases the water dispensing switch, the continuous running time of the water outlet valve 12 will be reset to zero, and the user can press the water dispensing switch again to open the water outlet valve 12 for water dispensing. This makes the condition of the water outlet valve 12 in this state similar to that of the water outlet valve 12 under long-term continuous operation. See also Figure 6 A high level indicates the water dispensing switch is released, and a low level indicates the water dispensing switch is pressed. Taking the case where pressing the water dispensing switch opens the water outlet valve 12 and releasing the water dispensing switch closes the water outlet valve 12 as an example, with the upper limit of water dispensing time set to 2 minutes, assuming that at time B, the water dispensing switch is pressed for the upper limit of water dispensing time, the water outlet valve 12 is controlled to close, and the user releases the water dispensing switch (i.e., low level C). If the user releases the water dispensing switch for a short time, such as 1-2 seconds, and then presses the water dispensing switch again to open the water outlet valve 12 for water dispensing, although the continuous water dispensing time is limited in this state, the water outlet valve 12 still operates continuously for a long time because it does not have enough time to cool down. This can easily cause the water outlet valve 12 to overheat, leading to carbonization of the water valve spool or damage and deformation of the flange support.

[0068] For example, in this embodiment, to avoid damage caused by prolonged operation of the outlet valve 12, during the opening process of the outlet valve 12, the cumulative operating time of the outlet valve 12 is incrementally calculated based on the duration of its opening, and the outlet valve 12 is forcibly closed when the cumulative operating time reaches a preset maximum opening time. Therefore, this effectively avoids prolonged operation of the outlet valve 12 and reduces its failure rate. Furthermore, see... Figure 7 Considering that in actual operation, the time a user presses and releases the water dispensing switch varies, there may be situations where the release time is sufficient for the operating temperature of the water outlet valve 12 to drop to its normal operating temperature. In such cases, simply judging whether the water outlet valve 12 has been running for an extended period based on the accumulated opening time could easily lead to the valve being closed for a long time, only to be forcibly closed again when the water dispensing switch is pressed again, due to the accumulated opening time reaching the preset maximum opening time, thus affecting the user experience. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the water outlet valve 12 is in the closed state, the accumulated running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the current closing time of the water outlet valve 12. This embodiment effectively avoids the water outlet valve 12 from running for an extended period while also fully considering the heat dissipation of the water outlet valve 12 in the closed state, making the calculation of the accumulated running time more consistent with the user's actual usage and enhancing the user experience.

[0069] For example, see Figure 7 Assuming that at time A, the cumulative running time of the outlet valve 12 is zero, and at time B, the opening signal of the first outlet switch 13 is detected, the outlet valve 12 opens for t seconds. B The duration is the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 when water intake by B ends. v =t B At time C, a closing signal is detected from the first water outlet switch 13, and the water outlet valve closes. C The duration is calculated as follows: when C ends, the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 is... v =t B -n*t C Where n is the preset coefficient; at time D, the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 is detected, and the water outlet valve 12 opens t. D The duration is the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 when water intake by D ends. v =t B -n*t C +t DThis process is repeated until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time. It should be noted that since the coil temperature of the outlet valve 12 decreases as the closing time increases when the outlet valve 12 is closed, n is not a fixed value; the value of n is linearly related to the closing time of the outlet valve 12. Preferably, the preset coefficient is equal to 0.03 times the closing time of the outlet valve 12.

[0070] For example, combined Figure 8 The diagram shows the workflow of the first controller for water intake control provided in this embodiment of the invention. The water intake control process of the controller 14 is as follows: Detecting the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 (step S11); if the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 is detected, proceed to step S12; if the opening signal of the first water outlet switch 13 is not detected, proceed to step S16; Controlling the water outlet valve 12 to open (step S12); Incrementing the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 according to the duration of its current opening (step S13); Determining whether the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time or whether the closing signal of the first water outlet switch 13 has been detected (step S14); If yes, proceed to step S15; if no, continue monitoring; Controlling the water outlet valve 12 to close (step S15); Decrementing the cumulative running time according to the preset coefficient and the duration of the current closing of the water outlet valve 12 (step S16).

[0071] As one of the alternative embodiments, refer to Figure 5 The refrigerator also includes a second water outlet switch 15; the second water outlet switch 15 is used to send an opening signal containing a preset water dispensing amount when triggered; the controller 14 is connected to the second water outlet switch 15 to receive the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15.

[0072] Then, the controller 14 is further configured to:

[0073] If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration.

[0074] If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, the water outlet valve 12 is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration;

[0075] If it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water intake time, then the water outlet valve 12 is controlled to remain closed.

[0076] In the refrigerator provided in this embodiment, when the controller 14 detects the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15, it needs to determine that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water dispensing time before it can open the water outlet valve 12. Therefore, the sum of the quantitative water dispensing time and the cumulative running time can be controlled within the preset maximum opening time, thereby avoiding the water outlet valve 12 from running for too long.

[0077] For example, the second water outlet switch 15 can be pre-configured to dispense a specific amount of water, such as 500ml. When the second water outlet switch 15 is triggered, it sends an opening signal for dispensing 500ml of water. If the controller 14 detects the opening signal for dispensing 500ml of water from the second water outlet switch 15, the controller 14 obtains the quantitative dispensing time corresponding to the 500ml dispensing time. When the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative dispensing time, the controller controls the water outlet valve 12 to open for the quantitative dispensing time, thus completing one 500ml quantitative dispensing.

[0078] As an example, suppose a user chooses to collect 500ml of water, and each time 500ml of water is collected, the time required is t1. See [reference needed]. Figure 9 Assuming that at time A, the cumulative running time of the outlet valve 12 is zero, and at time B, the opening signal of the first outlet switch 13 is detected, the outlet valve 12 opens for t seconds. B The duration is the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 when water intake by B ends. v =t B At time C, a closing signal is detected from the first water outlet switch 13, and the water outlet valve 12 closes. C The duration is calculated as follows: when C ends, the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 is... v =t B -n*t C At time D, the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 is detected, and a quantitative water dispensing of 500ml is performed. Then, when water dispensing at time D ends, the cumulative operating time t of the water outlet valve 12 is... v =t B -n*t C +t1; At time E, a single quantitative water intake is completed, and the outlet valve 12 is closed. E The duration is the cumulative operating time t of the outlet valve 12 when E ends. v =t B -n*t C +t1-n*t E It should be noted that the preset maximum opening time is assumed to be t.max Therefore, before each quantitative water draw (e.g., 500ml), it is necessary to determine the remaining water draw time t. p =t max -t v If the value is greater than or equal to t1, then the outlet valve 12 is controlled to open for t1 duration; otherwise, the outlet valve 12 is controlled to remain closed.

[0079] For example, combined Figure 10 The diagram shows the workflow of the second type of controller for water intake control provided in this embodiment of the invention. The other water intake control process of the controller 14 is as follows: Detecting the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 (step S21); if the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 is detected, proceeding to step S22; if the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 is not detected, the detection continues; obtaining the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount (step S22); determining whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration (step S23); if yes, proceeding to step S24; if no, proceeding to step S25; controlling the water outlet valve 12 to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and correcting the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve 12 to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration (step S24); controlling the water outlet valve 12 to remain closed (step S25).

[0080] Furthermore, if it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water intake time, then after controlling the water outlet valve to remain closed, the controller 14 is further configured to:

[0081] The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve 12 is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

[0082] In the refrigerator provided in this embodiment, when the controller 14 detects the opening signal of the second water outlet switch 15 and determines that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, it needs to control the water outlet valve 12 to remain closed until the difference reaches the quantitative water dispensing time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the controller controls the water outlet valve 12 to open for the quantitative water dispensing time. Therefore, the water outlet valve 12 can be prevented from being damaged while meeting the user's quantitative water dispensing needs.

[0083] As one optional embodiment, the controller 14 is further configured to:

[0084] When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve 12 is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

[0085] In the refrigerator provided in this embodiment, when the controller 14 detects that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time, it controls the water outlet valve 12 to remain closed within the preset protection time. Therefore, it can ensure that the water outlet valve 12 can get enough cooling time, and avoid the water outlet valve 12 from being burned out due to excessively high operating temperature when water is taken out next time.

[0086] Preferably, the preset protection duration is 2 minutes.

[0087] See Figure 11 Furthermore, the refrigerator also includes a notification device 16;

[0088] When the cumulative runtime is detected to have reached the preset maximum on-time, the controller 14 is further configured to:

[0089] The prompting device 16 is controlled to issue a preset prompt.

[0090] For example, the prompting device 16 is a display panel. When the cumulative running time is detected to have reached the preset maximum opening time, the display panel prompts the user to wait for the preset protection time by using special characters or flashing.

[0091] In the refrigerator provided in this embodiment, when the controller 14 detects that the cumulative running time has reached the preset maximum opening time, it controls the prompting device 16 to issue a preset prompt. Therefore, it can prompt the user that the current cumulative water dispensing time of the water dispenser is too long and that they need to wait for a period of time, thus enhancing the user experience.

[0092] Optionally, when the controller 14 controls the water outlet valve 12 to remain closed if it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water intake time, the controller 14 is also used to control the prompting device 16 to issue a preset prompt.

[0093] The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser provided in this embodiment includes a water storage container, a water outlet valve, and a first water outlet switch. The method includes:

[0094] If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the water outlet valve is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is incremented according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected.

[0095] When the outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the outlet valve being closed this time.

[0096] In the water dispensing control method for the water dispenser provided in this embodiment, when the water outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is decreased according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the water outlet valve's closure, rather than being directly reset to zero when the water outlet valve is closed. Therefore, whether the water outlet valve is closed briefly or for a long time, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve can match the actual operating condition of the water outlet valve. Furthermore, during the opening process of the water outlet valve, the cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is increased according to the duration of the water outlet valve's opening, and the water outlet valve is forcibly closed when the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time. Therefore, for scenarios of continuous water dispensing or short-term release and re-pressing to dispense water, the water outlet valve can be prevented from running for a long time, thereby effectively extending the service life of the water outlet valve and ensuring the stable operation of the water dispenser.

[0097] As one optional embodiment, the water dispenser further includes a second water dispensing switch; the second water dispensing switch is used to issue an activation signal containing a preset water dispensing volume when triggered; the method further includes:

[0098] If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration.

[0099] If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration;

[0100] If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed.

[0101] In the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in this embodiment, when the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, it is necessary to determine that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water dispensing time before the water outlet valve can be opened. Therefore, the sum of the quantitative water dispensing time and the cumulative running time can be controlled within the preset maximum opening time, thereby avoiding the water outlet valve from running for too long.

[0102] Furthermore, if it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water intake time, then after controlling the water outlet valve to remain closed, the method further includes:

[0103] The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

[0104] In the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in this embodiment, when the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, and it is determined that the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time is less than the quantitative water dispensing time, the water outlet valve needs to be kept closed until the difference reaches the quantitative water dispensing time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water dispensing time. Therefore, the water outlet valve can be prevented from being damaged while meeting the user's quantitative water dispensing needs.

[0105] As one optional embodiment, the method further includes:

[0106] When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

[0107] In the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in this embodiment, since the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed within the preset protection time when the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, it can ensure that the water outlet valve can get enough cooling time and avoid the water outlet valve from burning out due to excessively high operating temperature when dispensing water next time.

[0108] Preferably, when the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum operating time, the method further includes: controlling the prompting device corresponding to the water dispenser to issue a preset prompt.

[0109] In the water dispenser dispensing control method provided in this embodiment, when the cumulative running time is detected to have reached the preset maximum operating time, the corresponding prompting device of the water dispenser issues a preset prompt. Therefore, it can prompt the user that the current cumulative water dispensing time of the water dispenser is too long and that a waiting period is required, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0110] The specific description of the water dispensing control method of the water dispenser provided in this embodiment can be found in the specific descriptions of the various embodiments of the refrigerator described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0111] It should be noted that the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings of the device embodiments provided by this invention, the connection relationships between modules indicate that they have communication connections, which can be specifically implemented as one or more communication buses or signal lines. Those skilled in the art can understand and implement this without any creative effort.

[0112] 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; The water dispenser mounted on the housing includes a water storage container, a water outlet valve, and a first water outlet switch. Controller, used for: If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the water outlet valve is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is incremented according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected. When the outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the outlet valve being closed this time.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water dispenser also includes a second water outlet switch; the second water outlet switch is used to send an activation signal containing a preset water dispensing volume when triggered; Then, the controller is further configured to: If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration. If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration; If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, then after controlling the outlet valve to remain closed, the controller is further configured to: The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also used for: When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

5. The refrigerator as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The refrigerator also includes a notification device; When the cumulative runtime is detected to have reached the preset maximum on-time, the controller is further configured to: The prompting device is controlled to issue a preset prompt.

6. A water dispensing control method for a water dispenser, characterized in that, The water dispenser includes a water storage container, a water outlet valve, and a first water outlet switch; the method includes: If the opening signal of the first water outlet switch is detected, the water outlet valve is controlled to open. The cumulative running time of the water outlet valve is incremented according to the duration of the opening of the water outlet valve this time, until the cumulative running time reaches the preset maximum opening time or the closing signal of the first water outlet switch is detected. When the outlet valve is in the closed state, the cumulative running time is reduced according to a preset coefficient and the duration of the outlet valve being closed this time.

7. The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The water dispenser further includes a second water dispensing switch; the second water dispensing switch is used to issue an activation signal containing a preset water dispensing volume when triggered; the method further includes: If the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected, the quantitative water intake duration corresponding to the preset water intake amount is obtained, and it is determined whether the difference between the preset maximum opening duration and the cumulative running time is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration. If it is determined that the difference is greater than or equal to the quantitative water intake duration, then the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake duration, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake duration; If the difference is determined to be less than the quantitative water intake time, the water outlet valve is controlled to remain closed.

8. The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser as described in claim 7, characterized in that, If it is determined that the difference is less than the quantitative water intake time, then after controlling the outlet valve to remain closed, the method further includes: The relationship between the difference between the preset maximum opening time and the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time is recalculated until the difference reaches the quantitative water intake time and the opening signal of the second water outlet switch is detected again. Then, the water outlet valve is controlled to open for the quantitative water intake time, and the cumulative running time is corrected to the sum of the cumulative running time and the quantitative water intake time.

9. The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum opening time, the outlet valve is controlled to remain closed for a preset protection time.

10. The water dispensing control method for a water dispenser as described in claim 9, characterized in that, When the cumulative running time is detected to reach the preset maximum operating time, the method further includes: controlling the prompting device corresponding to the water dispenser to issue a preset prompt.

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