Door control methods, systems, refrigerators and storage media

By incorporating the push rod device of the automatic door-opening refrigerator into the door-locking device, and combining it with command recognition and status detection, the problem of poor coordination between the automatic door-opening device and the door lock is solved, achieving door control that is simple in structure, low in cost, and highly secure.

CN117967150BActive Publication Date: 2026-06-30NINGBO FOTILE KITCHEN WARE CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
NINGBO FOTILE KITCHEN WARE CO LTD
Filing Date
2024-03-12
Publication Date
2026-06-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing automatic door opening device and door lock of refrigerators do not have a high degree of compatibility, and the structure is cumbersome and the cost is high.

Method used

The push rod device of the automatic door refrigerator is incorporated into the door locking mechanism. A locking part is set to lock the push rod, and the locking part and the push rod are respectively set in the door body and the refrigerator body. Locking and unlocking are achieved by moving the push rod and the locking part. Combining command recognition and status detection improves the coordination and security.

Benefits of technology

It achieves a simple and low-cost door control system, improves the compatibility between the automatic door opening device and the push-rod refrigerator, and enhances safety and user experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention discloses a door control method, system, refrigerator, and storage medium for controlling the refrigerator door. The method uses a locking device comprising a push rod and a locking part. The locking part locks the push rod, and the locking part and push rod are respectively disposed on the door and the refrigerator body to achieve door locking. This locking device has high compatibility with push-rod type automatic door refrigerators, utilizes the existing push rod structure, and can be housed inside the refrigerator body together with the push rod device, making it more concealed and aesthetically pleasing. The method includes a locking step and an unlocking step. The locking step includes: after receiving a locking command, the push rod moves to a first preset position to be locked; the locking part moves to a preset locking position to lock the push rod. The push rod and locking part are fixed relative to the connected door or refrigerator body. The unlocking step includes: after receiving an unlocking command, the locking part moves and leaves the locking position to unlock the push rod. The control process is simple, the device is concise, and the cost is low.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerators, and particularly to a door control method, system, refrigerator, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional refrigerators use a manual sliding door, which is difficult to open in daily use and can be accidentally opened by children or other reasons.

[0003] To address the issue of difficulty in opening refrigerator doors, some refrigerators on the market have introduced automatic door opening mechanisms. These mechanisms involve opening a hole near the refrigerator door, with a push rod extending and engaging with the opening. When the user needs to open the door, a command is given, causing the push rod to extend and open the refrigerator door.

[0004] To address the issue of accidental opening, refrigerators with built-in door locks have emerged. However, refrigerator door locks are usually independent devices, typically located within the refrigerator itself, resulting in a cumbersome overall structure.

[0005] Based on this, this case aims to solve the two problems mentioned above in the refrigerator, improve the overall coordination between the two devices, and design a door control method that uses a simpler and lower-cost device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, such as the low degree of coordination between the automatic door opening device and the door lock, the complicated refrigerator structure, and the high manufacturing cost, and to provide a door control method, system, refrigerator and storage medium.

[0007] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0008] This invention provides a door control method for controlling the door of a refrigerator. The method uses a locking device, which includes a push rod connected to one of the door and the refrigerator body, and a locking part connected to the other of the door and the refrigerator body. The method includes a locking step and an unlocking step, wherein the locking step includes:

[0009] Upon receiving the door lock command, the push rod moves to the first preset position and is fixed relative to the connected door or cabinet. At the first preset position, the door is closed and the push rod can be locked by the locking part.

[0010] The locking part moves to a preset locking position and is fixed relative to the connected door or box. In the locking position, the locking part locks the push rod.

[0011] The unlocking process includes: upon receiving an unlocking command, the locking part moves and leaves the locked position to unlock the push rod.

[0012] In this solution, the push rod device of the automatic door-opening refrigerator is used as part of the refrigerator's door locking device. A locking part is provided to lock the push rod, and the locking part and the push rod are respectively located on the door body and the refrigerator body, thereby restricting the opening of the refrigerator door. This door locking device has a high degree of compatibility with push rod-type automatic door-opening refrigerators, utilizes the original push rod structure, has a simple structure, low cost, and can be installed inside the refrigerator body together with the push rod device, making it more concealed and aesthetically pleasing. Locking and unlocking are achieved by moving the push rod to or away from a preset position and moving the locking part to or away from a preset locking position. The control principle is simple and easy to install and maintain.

[0013] Preferably, the method includes the following input instruction steps:

[0014] The user inputs commands to the refrigerator;

[0015] Following the input instruction step, the method also includes the following judgment step:

[0016] The system identifies whether the input command is a preset command. If the identification result is no, the process terminates.

[0017] This solution utilizes instruction recognition to receive and evaluate user commands, automatically terminating the process if the command is not a preset one. This approach effectively identifies user input to the refrigerator, preventing inconvenience caused by user error; it also prevents unauthorized users from accessing items in multi-user scenarios, enhancing security; and by promptly terminating steps based on whether the command is not a preset one, it avoids unnecessary process steps and simplifies control.

[0018] Preferably, if the identification result is yes, the judgment step further includes:

[0019] Check if the locking part is in the locked position.

[0020] If the input command is to unlock, and the detection result is yes, then the unlock command is issued;

[0021] If the input command is to lock the door, and the detection result is negative, then the lock command is issued.

[0022] If the input command is to unlock and the detection result is no, or if the input command is to lock and the detection result is yes, then the process terminates.

[0023] In this solution, the refrigerator door's status is detected—whether it's locked or unlocked—and different steps are executed based on the correspondence between the input command and the detection result: when the input command is "unlock" and the detection result is "locked," the door is unlocked; when the input command is "lock" and the detection result is "unlocked," the door is locked; if neither of these correspondences is met, the process terminates. This solution, building upon the aforementioned command recognition functionality, adds refrigerator door status monitoring. This not only prevents inconvenience caused by user error and prevents unauthorized users from accessing items in the refrigerator, improving security, but also allows for timely termination of the process when the refrigerator is already in the desired state after a user inputs a command, avoiding unnecessary steps and simplifying control.

[0024] Preferably, the input command includes inputting a fingerprint, and the preset command includes a preset fingerprint;

[0025] And / or, input commands include input voice, and preset commands include preset voice.

[0026] In this solution, by combining fingerprint recognition and voice recognition with the aforementioned steps, the refrigerator can determine the effectiveness of user input commands based on both fingerprint and voice input. In practical implementation, when the preset command only includes a preset fingerprint, the refrigerator can identify the user's identity and purpose based on the fingerprint, offering high security. When the preset command only includes a preset voice, the refrigerator can identify the user's identity and purpose without contact, enabling remote control and greater convenience. Furthermore, when the preset command includes both a preset fingerprint and a preset voice, both of these effects can be achieved simultaneously, allowing users to choose their preferred control method, significantly enhancing the user experience.

[0027] Preferably, when the input instruction includes the input fingerprint, if the recognition result is yes, the determination step further includes:

[0028] Determine whether the input command meets the state transition conditions. If the determination result is no, terminate the step.

[0029] Preferably, the state switching condition is set according to the odd or even number of times the input fingerprint is entered, wherein if the number of input fingerprints is odd, the determination result is yes, if the number of input fingerprints is even, the determination result is no, and vice versa.

[0030] In this solution, when the input command includes fingerprint input, the method further includes a judgment step. This solution provides a judgment based on the number of input attempts (odd or even). Combining this with the aforementioned solution, the judgment result is: if the number of fingerprint inputs is odd, the judgment result is yes; if it is even, the judgment result is no, and vice versa. The process ends when the state switching condition is not met. This solution allows users to switch the refrigerator state using odd or even clicks, which is simple and easy to operate. Furthermore, the state switching operation corresponding to odd and even clicks can be replaced as needed during implementation. In addition, this solution can promptly terminate the step when the input command does not meet the state switching condition, avoiding unnecessary subsequent processes and simplifying the process.

[0031] Preferably, if the determination result is yes, the determination step further includes: detecting whether the locking part is in the locked position.

[0032] If the detection result is yes, then an unlock command is issued;

[0033] If the detection result is negative, a door lock command will be issued.

[0034] In this solution, when the aforementioned determination result is yes, a step of detecting the position of the locking part is added, that is, detecting the locked / unlocked state of the refrigerator door, and then issuing an unlock / lock command accordingly, realizing the function of automatically detecting the refrigerator door state and switching the state. Based on meeting the aforementioned state switching conditions, this solution further improves the process, that is, when performing state switching, it detects and identifies the original state of the refrigerator, and issues different commands according to different original states, making the refrigerator more intelligent.

[0035] Preferably, the method further includes a door-opening step, which is located after the unlocking step:

[0036] The door opening steps include:

[0037] The push rod moves to the second preset position to push open the door.

[0038] In this solution, after unlocking the door from the locked state, an additional door-opening step is added to enable the refrigerator to open automatically. Specifically, the push rod is moved to the second preset position to enable the refrigerator to open automatically, so that the user does not need to open the refrigerator manually, which is more convenient and effortless.

[0039] A door control system is provided for implementing any of the door control methods described above. The door control system includes a lock command receiving module, a first control module, an unlock command receiving module, and a second control module. The lock command receiving module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the unlock command receiving module is electrically connected to the second control module.

[0040] In the door locking step:

[0041] The door lock command receiving module is used to receive the door lock command and send a first receiving signal after receiving the door lock command;

[0042] The first control module is used to control the push rod to move to the first preset position and fix it relative to the connected door or box after receiving the first receiving signal, and to control the locking part to move to the locking position and fix it relative to the connected door or box.

[0043] In the unlocking step:

[0044] The unlock command receiving module is used to receive the unlock command and send a second receiving signal after receiving the unlock command;

[0045] The second control module is used to control the locking part to move away from the locking position after receiving the second receiving signal.

[0046] In this solution, the aforementioned locking and unlocking commands, the movement of the push rod, and the movement of the locking part are executed by the aforementioned method steps. The receiving module realizes the function of receiving commands and sending signals, and the control module realizes the function of receiving signals and controlling the movement of each device. The system can realize all the control method steps in the above solution with fewer execution entities, reducing the complexity of the device and reducing the overall cost.

[0047] Another aspect of the present invention provides a refrigerator, including a storage unit, a processor, and a computer program stored in the storage unit and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the door control method described in any of the foregoing solutions.

[0048] Another aspect of the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the gate control method described in any of the foregoing solutions.

[0049] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows: The push rod device of an automatic door-opening refrigerator is incorporated as part of the refrigerator's door-locking device. A locking part is provided to lock the push rod, and the locking part and the push rod are respectively located on the door body and the refrigerator body, thereby restricting the opening of the refrigerator door. This door-locking device has a high degree of compatibility with push rod-type automatic door-opening refrigerators, utilizes the original push rod structure, has a simpler structure, lower manufacturing cost, and can be housed inside the refrigerator body along with the push rod device, making it more concealed and aesthetically pleasing. Locking and unlocking are achieved by moving the push rod to or away from a preset position and moving the locking part to or away from a preset locking position. The control principle is simple and easy to install and maintain. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the locking part of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention cooperating with a push rod.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the push rod of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the right front side of the mechanism near the locking part of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the left rear side of the mechanism near the locking part of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locked state of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the door locking process of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the unlocking process of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the automatic door opening process of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0059] Claw 11

[0060] Transmission assembly 12

[0061] Input terminal 121

[0062] Output terminal 122

[0063] First connecting shaft 123

[0064] Rotary wheel 124

[0065] Second connecting shaft 125

[0066] First link 126

[0067] Second link 127

[0068] Limiting component 13

[0069] Limit plate 131

[0070] Putter 2

[0071] Groove 21 Detailed Implementation

[0072] The present invention will be further illustrated by way of embodiments below, but the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0073] Figure 1-5 This preferred embodiment of the door locking device was selected to better illustrate the door control method claimed in this invention. It is merely an example of a specific implementation of the door control method, and its specific structure is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention.

[0074] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the locking part of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention cooperating with the push rod 2. Figure 1 As shown, the door locking device of the present invention includes a push rod 2 device, which includes a push rod 2 and a locking part. The push rod 2 is connected to one of the door body and the refrigerator body, and the locking part is connected to the other of the door body and the refrigerator body. Therefore, when the locking part locks the push rod 2, the refrigerator door body and the refrigerator body are also indirectly locked, thus achieving the door locking effect.

[0075] The push rod 2 can be moved to a first preset position for being locked, a second preset position for opening the door, and a third preset position for closing the door; correspondingly, the locking part can be moved to or away from the preset locking position to lock or unlock the push rod 2.

[0076] In this invention, the push rod 2 can move to three positions, corresponding to the three states of pushing the door, locking the door, and not working. This adds a locking function to the existing push rod 2 while maintaining its original door-pushing function, resulting in a high degree of compatibility between the locking device and the push rod 2-type automatic door refrigerator. Furthermore, adjusting the position of the push rod 2 achieves its engagement with the locking mechanism, resulting in a simple structure and low manufacturing cost.

[0077] Those skilled in the art will understand that the push rod 2 device used here is a common automatic door opening device in refrigerators, and in this embodiment, a device such as... Figure 1 The push rod 2 with a screw shown is applicable to other types of refrigerator push rods 2 in actual implementation. Furthermore,

[0078] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the push rod 2 of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the push rod 2 in this embodiment also includes a groove 21, which is used to cooperate with the locking part. Figure 1 As shown, the locking part in this embodiment includes a pawl 11. The pawl 11 engages with the groove 21, thereby achieving the locking effect of the locking part on the push rod 2. This structure is simple and does not require additional mating parts to the push rod 2. The pawl 11 has a good fit with the shape of the rod.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment uses two opposing claws 11 engaged within the groove 21. In actual implementation, using one or more claws 11 can achieve the main locking effect. Furthermore, the locking part and the push rod 2 structure that cooperates with the locking part can be adjusted as needed. For example, by replacing the claws 11 with a locking pin structure, the groove 21 can be replaced with a radial hole passing through the axis of the push rod 2. When the locking part locks the push rod 2, the locking pin moves towards the axis of the push rod 2 and passes into the radial hole, thereby restricting the axial extension and retraction of the push rod 2. This adjustment method also has a similar locking effect to this embodiment and can be used as a reference for the implementation of this invention.

[0080] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the right front side of the mechanism near the locking part of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The door locking device in this embodiment also includes a driving device connected to the pawl 11. The driving device is used to drive the pawl 11 to move to or away from a preset locking position by rotation or linear motion. The specific structure and driving form of the driving device should also be adjusted according to the usage scenario. The specific structure of the driving device described in detail below is a preferred embodiment and is only used as an example to illustrate the present invention. For example, the driving device selected in this embodiment is used to move the pawl 11 to or away from the locking position by linear motion, but in actual implementation, it can also be adjusted to allow the pawl 11 to move by rotation or other forms. The specific adjustment method will be further detailed below.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown, the drive device includes a transmission assembly 12 and a power source (not shown). The power source can be a standard motor or another power source adapted to the corresponding transmission assembly 12. The power source is connected to the input end 121 of the transmission assembly 12 and drives its rotation, while the output end 122 of the transmission assembly 12 is connected to the chuck 11 and drives the chuck 11 to move linearly. This transmits the force from the power source to the chuck 11. This allows the chuck 11 to be positioned away from the power source, reducing the limitations imposed by the size or position of the power source on the size or movement of the chuck 11. Furthermore, the transmission assembly 12 can change the mode of action of the power source, such as converting circular rotation into horizontal movement, thereby adjusting the motion according to different locking requirements, resulting in a more complete and adaptable structure.

[0082] During implementation, those skilled in the art can also adjust the movement mode of the output end 122 by adjusting the transmission component 12 to adapt to the actual situation.

[0083] Depend on Figure 3 , Figure 4As can be seen, the transmission assembly 12 includes a first connecting shaft 123, a rotating wheel 124, a second connecting shaft 125, a first connecting rod 126, and a second connecting rod 127. The first connecting shaft 123 and the second connecting shaft 125 are located at opposite ends of the rotating wheel 124. The first connecting shaft 123 is positioned at the center of the rotating wheel 124 and serves as the input end 121 connected to the power source. The second connecting shaft 125 is offset from the center of the rotating wheel 124. Through this connection method, when the power source drives the first connecting shaft 123 to rotate, it causes the entire rotating wheel 124 to rotate around its center, thereby causing the eccentric second connecting shaft 125 to rotate, thus indirectly realizing the change in motion of the connecting rod assembly-claw 11.

[0084] The first link 126 connects between the second connecting shaft 125 and the second link 127. The rotating wheel 124 drives the first link 126 to rotate via the second connecting shaft 125. The second link 127, as the output end 122, drives the claw 11 to perform linear motion. This connection method increases the degree of freedom of movement of the claw 11. The claw 11 can perform linear reciprocating motion under the drive of the second link 127. In actual implementation, those skilled in the art can change the movement distance and form of the claw 11 by adjusting the number and connection method of the links to meet actual blocking requirements.

[0085] like Figure 4 As shown, the transmission assembly 12 in this embodiment also includes a limiting member 13. The limiting member 13 acts on the second connecting rod 127 to restrict the rotation of the second connecting rod 127 relative to the first connecting rod 126 and to allow the second connecting rod 127 to move linearly along its extension direction. In this embodiment, the limiting member 13 sets a preset track for the second connecting rod 127, causing the second connecting rod 127 to move in a desired direction, indirectly limiting the movement direction of the chuck 11, thereby avoiding restrictions on the size or movement of the chuck 11 imposed by the limiting part. Figure 3 As shown, the limiting member 13 includes two limiting plates 131 arranged opposite to each other. The two limiting plates 131 are used to form a limiting channel. The second connecting rod 127 is inserted through the limiting channel, and the two limiting plates 131 are located on the upper and lower sides of the second connecting rod 127 along the thickness direction.

[0086] In actual implementation, the structure or position of the limiting member 13 can be changed. For example, the limiting member 13 can be set as a hinge block close to the side of the second limiting rod in the thickness direction. Then, the second connecting rod 127 can rotate / swing around the hinge block under the drive of the first connecting rod 126, so as to drive the pawl 11 to move back and forth along the arc path. At the same time, those skilled in the art should understand that when the number and connection method of the connecting rods are adjusted as above, the limiting member 13 should also be adjusted accordingly to cooperate with the connecting rods to guide the pawl 11 to make the expected movement.

[0087] Similarly, a structurally matched drive device can be provided for push rod 2 to achieve automatic control of push rod 2.

[0088] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking state of a door locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the two claws 11 use two separate drive devices, but in actual implementation, the two transmission components 12 can be connected to the same power source to further simplify the structure.

[0089] The present invention also discloses a refrigerator, which includes a door locking device as described in any of the above embodiments. The refrigerator in this embodiment further includes a baffle connected to the door or cabinet connected to the locking part and disposed in the axial extension direction of the push rod 2. The baffle can move to or away from the blocking position. The baffle opens when the push rod 2 is used to push the door, and moves to the blocking position when the door is closed or when the push rod 2 is used to lock the door. The main purpose of setting this baffle is to allow the push rod 2 to move to a preset locked position without contacting the door, preventing the door from being accidentally pushed open; when the push rod 2 needs to push the door open, or when the push rod 2 retracts, the baffle moves to the blocking position to act as the pushed part of the door; in addition, the baffle can also be used to cover the locking part, that is, when the locking part does not need to work, the baffle covers the axial movement path of the push rod 2, which can be used to seal and protect the locking part, or to conceal the locking part to improve aesthetics.

[0090] Similar to the aforementioned claw 11, the baffle can be connected to a similar drive device, and its main effect is the same as before.

[0091] The door control method described below is applicable to the aforementioned locking device and other alternative locking devices that can achieve the same effect. These devices are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. One aspect of this invention discloses a door control method for controlling the door of a refrigerator. This method uses a locking device, which includes a push rod connected to one of the door and the refrigerator body, and a locking part connected to the other of the door and the refrigerator body. By incorporating the push rod device of an automatic door-opening refrigerator as part of the refrigerator's locking device, a locking part is provided to lock the push rod. The locking part and the push rod are respectively located on the door and the refrigerator body, thereby restricting the opening of the refrigerator door. This locking device has a high degree of compatibility with push rod-type automatic door-opening refrigerators, utilizes the existing push rod structure, has a simpler structure, lower manufacturing cost, and can be housed inside the refrigerator body along with the push rod device, making it more concealed and aesthetically pleasing.

[0092] The method includes a locking step and an unlocking step. The locking step includes:

[0093] Upon receiving the door lock command, the push rod moves to the first preset position and is fixed relative to the connected door or cabinet. At the first preset position, the door is closed and the push rod can be locked by the locking part.

[0094] The locking part moves to a preset locking position and is fixed relative to the connected door or box. In the locking position, the locking part locks the push rod.

[0095] The unlocking process includes: upon receiving an unlocking command, the locking part moves and leaves the locked position to unlock the push rod. Locking and unlocking are achieved by moving the push rod to or away from a preset position, and by moving the locking part to or away from a preset locking position. The control principle is simple and easy to install and maintain.

[0096] In this embodiment, the method includes the following input instruction steps:

[0097] The user inputs commands to the refrigerator;

[0098] Following the input instruction step, the method also includes the following judgment step:

[0099] The system identifies whether the input command is a preset command. If the identification result is no, the process terminates.

[0100] By setting up command recognition, the system can receive and judge user commands, and automatically terminate the process if the command is not a preset command. This solution is beneficial for recognizing user commands input to the refrigerator, preventing inconvenience caused by user errors; or, in the case of multiple users, it can prevent unauthorized users from accessing items in the refrigerator, improving security; and, by promptly terminating the step if the command does not conform to the preset command, it avoids unnecessary process steps and simplifies control. In this embodiment, if the recognition result is yes, the judgment step further includes:

[0101] Check if the locking part is in the locked position.

[0102] If the input command is to unlock, and the detection result is yes, then the unlock command is issued;

[0103] If the input command is to lock the door, and the detection result is negative, then the lock command is issued.

[0104] If the input command is to unlock and the detection result is negative, or if the input command is to lock and the detection result is positive, the process terminates. In this solution, the refrigerator door's state is detected—whether it's locked or unlocked—and different steps are executed based on the correspondence between the input command and the detection result: when the input command is to unlock and the detection result is locked, unlocking is performed; when the input command is to lock and the detection result is unlocked, locking is performed; if neither of these correspondences is met, the process terminates. This solution, building upon the aforementioned command recognition functionality, adds refrigerator door status monitoring. This not only helps prevent inconvenience caused by user error and prevents unauthorized users from accessing items in the refrigerator, improving security, but also allows for timely termination of the process when the refrigerator is already in the desired state after the user inputs a command, avoiding unnecessary steps and simplifying control.

[0105] In actual implementation, the detection steps can be set or removed according to actual needs. For example, each time the user enters a valid command, the refrigerator will generate a corresponding indicator light to indicate the refrigerator's status. The user can then actively determine whether to enter an unlock command or a lock command based on the indicator light, such as by clicking an unlock button. This kind of adjustment does not affect the key technical effect of the refrigerator generating different commands based on the lock / unlock status.

[0106] In this embodiment, the input command includes inputting a fingerprint, and the preset command includes a preset fingerprint;

[0107] And / or, input commands include input voice, and preset commands include preset voice.

[0108] In this solution, by combining fingerprint recognition and voice recognition with the aforementioned steps, the refrigerator can determine the effectiveness of user input commands based on both fingerprint and voice input. In practical implementation, when the preset command only includes a preset fingerprint, the refrigerator can identify the user's identity and purpose based on the fingerprint, offering high security. When the preset command only includes a preset voice, the refrigerator can identify the user's identity and purpose without contact, enabling remote control and greater convenience. Furthermore, when the preset command includes both a preset fingerprint and a preset voice, both of these effects can be achieved simultaneously, allowing users to choose their preferred control method, significantly enhancing the user experience.

[0109] Preferably, when the input instruction includes the input fingerprint, if the recognition result is yes, the determination step further includes:

[0110] Determine whether the input command meets the state transition conditions. If the determination result is no, terminate the step.

[0111] Preferably, the state switching condition is set according to the odd or even number of times the input fingerprint is entered, wherein if the number of input fingerprints is odd, the determination result is yes, if the number of input fingerprints is even, the determination result is no, and vice versa.

[0112] In this solution, when the input command includes fingerprint input, the method further includes a judgment step. This solution provides a judgment based on the number of input attempts (odd or even). Combined with the aforementioned solution, the judgment result is: if the number of fingerprint inputs is odd, the judgment result is yes; if it is even, the judgment result is no, and vice versa. The process ends when the state switching condition is not met. This solution allows users to switch the refrigerator state via odd or even clicks, which is simple and easy to operate. Furthermore, the state switching operation corresponding to odd and even clicks can be replaced as needed during implementation. In addition, this solution can terminate the step promptly when the input command does not meet the state switching condition, avoiding unnecessary subsequent processes and simplifying the process. Preferably, if the judgment result is yes, the judgment step further includes: detecting whether the locking part is in the locked position.

[0113] If the detection result is yes, then an unlock command is issued;

[0114] If the detection result is negative, a door lock command will be issued.

[0115] In this solution, when the aforementioned determination result is yes, a step of detecting the position of the locking part is added, that is, detecting the locked / unlocked state of the refrigerator door, and then issuing an unlock / lock command accordingly, realizing the function of automatically detecting the refrigerator door state and switching the state. Based on meeting the aforementioned state switching conditions, this solution further improves the process, that is, when performing state switching, it detects and identifies the original state of the refrigerator, and issues different commands according to different original states, making the refrigerator more intelligent.

[0116] In this embodiment, the method further includes a door-opening step, which is located after the unlocking step:

[0117] The door opening steps include:

[0118] The push rod moves to the second preset position to open the door. In this solution, after unlocking the door from the locked state, an additional door-opening step is added to enable the refrigerator to open automatically, i.e., the push rod moves to the second preset position to enable the refrigerator to open automatically, so that the user does not need to manually open the refrigerator, making it more convenient and effortless.

[0119] The following example uses controlling the left refrigerator door. A valid fingerprint is selected as the aforementioned preset command, and an odd number of clicks is selected as the condition for the aforementioned state switching adjustment. Combined with... Figure 6-8 The above-mentioned door control method is explained in detail.

[0120] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating the door locking process of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the diagram, "Start" corresponds to the input command, and "Lock part moves to preset position" and "Push rod moves to first preset position" correspond to the respective steps in the above-mentioned door locking process. In this diagram, the two steps are performed sequentially, but in actual implementation, the two steps can also be performed simultaneously.

[0121] Figure 6 In the process, prior to these two unlocking steps, the procedure also includes three judgment steps: "Is it a valid fingerprint?", "Does the left refrigerator door lock itself?", and "Has the left refrigerator door module been clicked an odd number of times?", corresponding to the above method, namely, "Identifying whether the input command is a preset command", "Detecting whether the locking part is in the locked position", and "Determining whether the input command meets the state switching conditions" in the above method.

[0122] The method can only execute the above door-locking steps and enable the refrigerator to unlock when the results of the three judgment steps are "yes", "no", and "yes" respectively, that is, the fingerprint matches, the refrigerator door is not locked, and the number of clicks is odd. Otherwise, the process terminates, that is, "end", and the refrigerator cannot lock the door.

[0123] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the unlocking process of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the diagram, "Start" corresponds to the input command, and "Locked part moves away from preset position" and "Push rod moves away from first preset position" correspond to the respective steps in the unlocking process described above. The two steps are performed sequentially.

[0124] Figure 7 In the process, prior to these two unlocking steps, the procedure also includes three judgment steps: "Is it a valid fingerprint?", "Does the left refrigerator door lock itself?", and "Has the left refrigerator door module been clicked an odd number of times?", corresponding to the above method, namely, "Identifying whether the input command is a preset command", "Detecting whether the locking part is in the locked position", and "Determining whether the input command meets the state switching conditions" in the above method.

[0125] The method can only execute the above door-locking steps and enable the refrigerator to lock when the results of the three judgment steps are all "yes" (i.e., the fingerprint matches, the refrigerator door is locked, and the number of clicks is odd). Otherwise, the process terminates, corresponding to "end", and the refrigerator cannot be unlocked.

[0126] Figure 8 This is an automatic door opening flowchart of a door control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the diagram, "Start" corresponds to the input command, "Move the locking part away from the preset position" and "Move the push rod away from the first preset position" correspond to the corresponding steps in the unlocking step, and "Move the push rod to the second preset position" corresponds to the corresponding step in the opening step. The three steps are performed sequentially.

[0127] Figure 7In the process, prior to these three steps, the procedure also includes three judgment steps: "Does the left refrigerator door lock automatically?", "Is it a valid fingerprint?", and "Has the left refrigerator door module been clicked an odd number of times?", corresponding to the above method, namely, "Identifying whether the input command is a preset command", "Detecting whether the locking part is in the locked position", and "Determining whether the input command meets the state switching conditions" in the above method.

[0128] The method can only execute the above unlocking steps and open the door when the results of the three judgment steps are all "yes", that is, the fingerprint matches, the refrigerator door is locked, and the number of clicks is odd. Otherwise, the process terminates, that is, it ends, and the refrigerator cannot be unlocked.

[0129] exist Figure 6-8 In the process, the three judgment steps "Does the left refrigerator door lock itself?", "Is it a valid fingerprint?", and "Has the left refrigerator door module been clicked an odd number of times?" are all performed sequentially. However, in actual implementation, the order of the three judgment steps can be arbitrarily interchanged without affecting the main technical effect.

[0130] In these three flowcharts, the result of the judgment "Is this a valid fingerprint?" must be positive for the subsequent steps to be executed. That is, the user input command must at least conform to the preset command for at least one process to be executed. This embodiment realizes the function of locking the refrigerator door based on the user's fingerprint information. In actual implementation, the fingerprint input can be replaced with voice, password, or other input commands, all of which can achieve the same technical effect.

[0131] The step of determining whether the left refrigerator door is self-locking is for embodiments where the refrigerator has multiple doors and the user only wants to unlock / lock that specific door. In actual implementation, this can be replaced with the self-locking status of other doors or all doors as needed. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, the detection device for detecting self-locking can be set or removed according to actual needs. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the position and number of controlled refrigerator doors can be adjusted as needed.

[0132] The judgment step, such as "Is the left refrigerator door module clicked an odd number of times?", can be adjusted according to the actual functional needs of the refrigerator. For example, the condition for the aforementioned state switching adjustment can be set by requiring an even number of clicks or inputting a specific statement. Furthermore, this judgment step can be removed as needed during actual implementation.

[0133] Any combination of any one or more of the above three judgment steps falls within the scope of protection claimed by this invention. The combination and order of the above three judgment steps listed in this embodiment are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention.

[0134] In another aspect, the present invention discloses a door control system for implementing any of the door control methods described above. The door control system includes a lock command receiving module, a first control module, an unlock command receiving module, and a second control module. The lock command receiving module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the unlock command receiving module is electrically connected to the second control module.

[0135] In the door locking step:

[0136] The door lock command receiving module is used to receive the door lock command and send a first receiving signal after receiving the door lock command;

[0137] The first control module is used to control the push rod to move to the first preset position and fix it relative to the connected door or box after receiving the first receiving signal, and to control the locking part to move to the locking position and fix it relative to the connected door or box.

[0138] In the unlocking step:

[0139] The unlock command receiving module is used to receive the unlock command and send a second receiving signal after receiving the unlock command;

[0140] The second control module is used to control the locking part to move away from the locking position after receiving the second receiving signal.

[0141] Another aspect of the present invention discloses a refrigerator, including a storage unit, a processor, and a computer program stored in the storage unit and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the door control method described in any of the foregoing solutions.

[0142] In another aspect, the present invention discloses a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the gate control method described in any of the foregoing schemes.

[0143] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A door control method for controlling the door of a refrigerator, characterized in that, The method uses a door locking device, which includes a push rod connected to one of the door and the refrigerator body, and a locking part connected to the other of the door and the refrigerator body. The locking part and the push rod are both located inside the refrigerator. The push rod can be moved to a first preset position for being locked, a second preset position for opening the door, and a third preset position for closing the door. The method includes a locking step and an unlocking step, wherein... The door locking process includes: Upon receiving a door-locking command, the push rod moves to the first preset position and is fixed relative to the connected door or box. At the first preset position, the door is in a closed state, and the push rod can be locked by the locking part. The locking part moves to a preset locking position and is fixed relative to the connected door or box, wherein, at the locking position, the locking part locks the push rod; The unlocking steps include: Upon receiving an unlock command, the locking part moves and leaves the locking position to unlock the push rod.

2. The door control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method includes the following input instruction steps: The user inputs commands to the refrigerator; Following the input instruction step, the method further includes the following determination step: The system identifies whether the input command is a preset command. If the identification result is no, the process terminates.

3. The door control method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, If the identification result is yes, then the judgment step further includes: Detect whether the locking part is in the locking position; If the input command is to unlock, and the detection result is yes, then the unlock command is issued; If the input command is to lock the door, and the detection result is negative, then the lock command is issued. If the input command is to unlock and the detection result is no, or if the input command is to lock and the detection result is yes, then the process terminates.

4. The door control method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The input instruction includes inputting a fingerprint, and the preset instruction includes a preset fingerprint; And / or, the input instruction includes input voice, and the preset instruction includes preset voice.

5. The door control method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, When the input instruction includes the input fingerprint, if the recognition result is yes, the determination step further includes: Determine whether the input command meets the state switching conditions. If the determination result is no, terminate the step.

6. The door control method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The state switching condition is set according to the odd or even number of times the fingerprint is input. If the number of times the fingerprint is input is odd, the determination result is yes; if the number of times the fingerprint is input is even, the determination result is no, and vice versa.

7. The door control method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, If the determination result is yes, the determination step further includes: detecting whether the locking part is in the locking position. If the detection result is yes, then the unlock command is issued; If the detection result is negative, then the door locking command is issued.

8. The door control method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method further includes a door-opening step, which is located after the unlocking step; The door opening steps include: The push rod moves to the second preset position to push open the door.

9. A door control system, characterized in that, It is used to implement the door control method according to any one of claims 1-8. The door control system includes a lock command receiving module, a first control module, an unlock command receiving module, and a second control module. The lock command receiving module is electrically connected to the first control module, and the unlock command receiving module is electrically connected to the second control module. In the door locking step: The door lock command receiving module is used to receive the door lock command and send a first receiving signal after receiving the door lock command; The first control module is used to control the push rod to move to the first preset position and fix it relative to the connected door or box after receiving the first receiving signal, and to control the locking part to move to the locking position and fix it relative to the connected door or box. In the unlocking step: The unlock command receiving module is used to receive the unlock command and send a second receiving signal after receiving the unlock command; The second control module is used to control the locking part to move away from the locking position after receiving the second receiving signal.

10. A refrigerator, comprising a storage unit, a processor, and a computer program stored in the storage unit and executable on the processor, characterized in that, When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the door control method according to any one of claims 1-8.

11. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the door control method as described in any one of claims 1-8.