Methods, control systems, and refrigerators for moisturizing and micro-freezing meat.

By precisely controlling the temperature and humidity of the refrigerator's designated area, and employing micro-freezing preservation methods and evaporator humidification technology, the problems of short meat preservation time and low humidity in refrigerators have been solved, achieving efficient meat preservation and a user-friendly experience.

CN118149543BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-14CHANGHONG MEILING CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202410366867.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-03-28
Publication Date
2025-11-14
Estimated Expiration
2044-03-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing refrigerators have problems with inaccurate temperature control when preserving meat, resulting in incomplete or excessive freezing, short preservation time, low humidity causing the surface of meat to dry out, and the humidification device requires frequent manual water replenishment, which is inconvenient.

Method used

By precisely controlling the temperature and humidity of the refrigerator compartment, a micro-freezing preservation method is adopted, combined with temperature sensors and evaporator humidification technology, to achieve the preservation of meat products in a supercooled state. Solenoid valves and fans are used to regulate the cooling and humidification operation of the refrigerator compartment.

Benefits of technology

It extends the shelf life of meat to four weeks, maintains surface moisture, reduces ice crystals, improves nutrient retention and user experience, reduces frost accumulation, and enhances system reliability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This application provides a method, control system, and refrigerator for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat. The method includes: acquiring the current temperature within a designated refrigerator compartment; determining whether the current temperature of the designated refrigerator compartment is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold; if so, controlling the refrigerator compartment to cool down; when the temperature of the designated refrigerator compartment drops to less than or equal to a second temperature threshold and the refrigerator compartment reaches its stop point, switching the solenoid valve to other compartments of the refrigerator and stopping cooling the refrigerator compartment; acquiring the current temperature of the evaporator; determining whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to a third temperature threshold; if so, turning on the refrigerator compartment fan to humidify the refrigerator compartment. This application extends the preservation time through moisturizing and micro-freezing. High humidity in the designated compartment reduces the drying effect on the meat surface, and fewer ice crystals on the meat surface improve the meat's taste and nutrient retention rate. The humidification process also reduces frost accumulation, preventing frost buildup and improving the reliability of the system operation.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household refrigerator technology, and more specifically to a method, control system and refrigerator for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing of meat. Background Technology

[0002] Common methods for storing meat in refrigerators include freezing, variable temperature storage, and refrigeration. When frozen, the meat becomes too hard and requires a long thawing time before cutting and cooking; thawing also results in significant blood loss and nutrient loss. With variable temperature storage, temperature control is not precise, and the meat may freeze too hard or fail to freeze completely, leading to a short shelf life. While refrigerated storage makes it easy to cut, the meat spoils within one or two days, also resulting in a short shelf life.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for preservation technology that allows for longer preservation time (generally more than 2 weeks), meat that does not need to be thawed, can be easily cut with one cut, and has minimal nutrient loss. However, current refrigerators still have problems such as high and fluctuating temperature control, meat that cannot be frozen, and relatively short preservation time. Furthermore, the humidity in frost-free refrigerators is low, and the surface of meat is prone to drying out. If a humidification device is used, there are also problems such as the need to frequently add purified water manually, and the operation and cleaning are relatively troublesome. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the issues of current refrigerators having high and fluctuating temperatures, preventing meat from freezing, and resulting in relatively short preservation times; and the low humidity in air-cooled refrigerators causing meat surfaces to dry out easily, requiring frequent manual replenishment of purified water and cumbersome cleaning processes when using humidification devices, this application provides a method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat, comprising the following steps:

[0005] Obtain the current temperature within the refrigerator zone, which is the variable temperature drawer in the refrigerator compartment, or a portion of the variable temperature drawer that is isolated from the refrigerator.

[0006] Determine whether the current temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold T0. If so, start timing and control the refrigerator compartment to run in a cooling mode. The first temperature threshold T0 is the highest temperature value at which the meat food is kept in a supercooled state.

[0007] When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and the refrigerator compartment reaches the shutdown point, the solenoid valve is switched to the other compartments of the refrigerator, and the cooling supply to the refrigerator compartment is stopped.

[0008] The current temperature of the evaporator is obtained, and it is determined whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2. If so, the fan of the refrigerator compartment is turned on, and the refrigerator compartment is put into humidification operation. The third temperature threshold T2 is the temperature value at which the water collected in the evaporator changes from solid to gas.

[0009] When the accumulated time reaches the preset time, the refrigerator compressor will be stopped, and the cooling supply to all compartments of the refrigerator will be stopped.

[0010] The natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment is started, and the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. It is determined whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3. If so, the refrigerator compartment fan is turned on, and the refrigerator compartment is put into humidification operation. The fourth temperature threshold T3 is the temperature value that controls the air humidity on the surface of the meat to be close to saturation.

[0011] In one feasible implementation, the refrigerator compartment is controlled to operate in a cooling mode. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to the second temperature threshold T1, but the temperature of the compartment does not reach the first temperature threshold T0, the fan of the refrigerator compartment is turned off, the refrigeration system of other compartments of the refrigerator is turned on, or the entire refrigerator is shut down.

[0012] In one feasible implementation, at least one temperature sensor is provided in the refrigerator compartment to collect the temperature of the refrigerator compartment. When there are multiple temperature sensors, the average value of the temperature sensors is taken as the current temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0013] In one feasible implementation, the first temperature threshold T0 has a value range of -3℃ to -1℃; the second temperature threshold T1 has a value range of -12℃ to -3℃.

[0014] In one feasible implementation, the third temperature threshold T2 ranges from 0°C to 8°C; and the fourth temperature threshold T3 ranges from 5°C to 12°C.

[0015] In one feasible implementation, the cooling operation is performed by fully opening the air vent of the refrigerator compartment and by partially opening the air vent of the refrigerator zone.

[0016] In one feasible implementation, the humidification operation is performed by fully opening the air vent of the refrigerator compartment and by partially opening the air vent of the refrigerator zone.

[0017] The second aspect of this application provides a meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system for implementing any of the above-mentioned meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control methods, including: a first temperature acquisition module, a first judgment module, a first control module, a timing module, a second temperature acquisition module, a second judgment module, and a second control module.

[0018] The first temperature acquisition module, the first judgment module, the first control module, the timing module, the second temperature acquisition module, the second judgment module, and the second control module are all connected by communication.

[0019] The first temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature in the refrigerator zone and send the current temperature in the refrigerator zone to the first judgment module and the second judgment module;

[0020] The first judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, and determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold T0, obtain a first judgment result, and send the first judgment result to the first control module and the timing module.

[0021] The first control module is used to receive the first judgment result, and when the first judgment result is yes, control the cold storage compartment to perform cooling operation;

[0022] The timing module is used to receive the first judgment result, start timing when the judgment result is yes, and send a timing signal to the second judgment module and the second control module when the timing reaches a preset time.

[0023] The second temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature of the evaporator and send the current temperature of the evaporator to the second judgment module;

[0024] The second judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, and determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and whether the temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the shutdown point, to obtain the second judgment result, and send the second judgment result to the second control module;

[0025] It is also used to receive the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2, obtain the third determination result, and send the third determination result to the second control module;

[0026] It is also used to receive the timing signal, and based on the timing signal, obtain the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3, obtain the fourth determination result, and send the fourth determination result to the second control module;

[0027] The second control module is used to receive the second judgment result. When the second judgment result is yes, it controls the solenoid valve to switch to other compartments for cooling and controls the refrigerator compartment to stop cooling.

[0028] It is also used to receive a third judgment result, and when the third judgment result is yes, to turn on the fan of the refrigerator compartment to humidify the refrigerator compartment;

[0029] It is also used to receive the fourth judgment result and the timing signal, control the refrigerator compressor to stop according to the timing signal, stop the cooling of all compartments of the refrigerator, start the natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment, and when the fourth judgment result is yes, turn on the fan of the refrigerator compartment to humidify the refrigerator compartment.

[0030] A third aspect of this application provides a refrigerator equipped with the aforementioned meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system.

[0031] As can be seen from the above, this application provides a method, control system, and refrigerator for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat. The method includes the following steps: obtaining the current temperature in a dedicated area of ​​the refrigerator, wherein the dedicated area is a variable temperature drawer in the refrigerator compartment, or a portion of the area isolated in the variable temperature drawer; determining whether the current temperature of the dedicated area is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold T0, and if so, controlling the refrigerator compartment to perform cooling operation; wherein, the first temperature threshold T0 is the highest temperature value at which the meat food is kept in a supercooled state; when the temperature of the dedicated area of ​​the refrigerator drops to less than or equal to a second temperature threshold T1, and the refrigerator compartment reaches the stop point, turning the solenoid valve to other compartments of the refrigerator and stopping the cooling supply to the refrigerator compartment; obtaining the current temperature of the evaporator, determining whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to a third temperature threshold T2, and if so, turning on the refrigerator compartment fan, and the refrigerator compartment to perform humidification operation, wherein the third temperature threshold T2 is the temperature value at which the water collected in the evaporator changes from a solid to a gaseous state. This application extends the shelf life from one week to four weeks through a moisturizing micro-freezing method. The high humidity in the designated area reduces ice crystals on the meat surface, minimizing surface drying and improving the meat's texture and nutrient retention, resulting in a better user experience. The humidification process in the evaporator also reduces frost buildup, preventing ice accumulation and improving system reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the implementation of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the invention. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator structure shown in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the embodiments of the invention will be more comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a full understanding of how embodiments of the invention are carried out.

[0037] While meat is easy to cut when stored in a refrigerator, it spoils within a day or two, resulting in a short shelf life. Therefore, a preservation technology is needed that allows for longer shelf life (generally over two weeks), eliminates the need for thawing, enables easy cutting, and minimizes nutrient loss. However, current refrigerators suffer from issues such as high and fluctuating temperatures, the inability to freeze meat, and relatively short shelf life. Furthermore, frost-free refrigerators have low humidity, causing meat surfaces to dry out easily. If humidification devices are used, frequent manual replenishment of purified water is required, making cleaning and maintenance cumbersome.

[0038] To address the aforementioned problems, the first aspect of this application provides a method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat, referring to... Figure 1 As shown, the steps include:

[0039] S100: Obtain the current temperature within a designated area of ​​the refrigerator, which is either a temperature-controlled drawer in the refrigerator compartment or a portion of the temperature-controlled drawer that is isolated from the temperature-controlled drawer.

[0040] The refrigerator compartment, as described in this application, is specifically designed for storing meat products. It can be a temperature-controlled drawer within the refrigerator compartment, or a designated area within that drawer. By obtaining the real-time temperature of this refrigerator compartment, the environmental conditions of the meat products can be accurately understood.

[0041] S200: Determine whether the current temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold T0. If so, control the refrigerator compartment to run in cooling mode.

[0042] The first temperature threshold T0 is the highest temperature at which meat products are kept in a supercooled state. This value ensures that the meat products are kept fresh without freezing, thus preserving their original taste and nutritional value. Therefore, at temperatures above the first temperature threshold T0, the meat may thaw.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the first temperature threshold T0 ranges from -3°C to -1°C; this range is designed to ensure that the meat is in a supercooled state without freezing. Supercooling helps inhibit bacterial growth and extends the shelf life of the food. Simultaneously, preventing freezing preserves the texture and nutritional value of the meat, preventing damage to its quality caused by freezing.

[0044] S300: When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and the refrigerator compartment reaches the shutdown point, the solenoid valve will be switched to other compartments of the refrigerator and the cooling supply to the refrigerator compartment will be stopped.

[0045] The purpose of this step is to prevent the meat from thawing by lowering the temperature to the second temperature threshold T1, keeping the meat in a slightly frozen state. This also prevents overcooling of the refrigerator compartment, ensuring that the temperature of other compartments in the refrigerator is properly controlled. This ensures both the preservation of meat and improved energy efficiency of the refrigerator.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, the second temperature threshold T1 is set within the range of -12°C to -3°C. This temperature range allows meat products to reach an ideal state of micro-freezing and preservation, while controlling the temperature of the refrigerator compartment prevents over-cooling. Over-cooling not only increases the refrigerator's energy consumption but may also cause unnecessary freezing damage to the meat products. Therefore, setting this temperature range helps to improve the refrigerator's energy efficiency while ensuring preservation.

[0047] S400: Obtain the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2, and if so, turn on the refrigerator compartment fan to start the humidification operation of the refrigerator compartment.

[0048] The third temperature threshold T2 is the temperature at which the water collected in the evaporator changes from a solid to a gaseous state. Setting the third temperature threshold T2 ensures the accuracy of the humidification operation. Humidification effectively prevents meat products from losing moisture and flavor due to dryness during preservation.

[0049] In some embodiments of this application, the third temperature threshold T2 ranges from 0°C to 8°C. This temperature range ensures that the moisture in the evaporator can smoothly change from a solid to a gaseous state, thereby achieving humidification operation of the refrigerator compartment. Humidification helps maintain the moisture of meat products, preventing them from losing their texture and nutritional value due to drying during preservation. Simultaneously, this temperature range also avoids increased energy consumption and reduced preservation effect caused by excessively high evaporator temperatures.

[0050] The meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation method provided in this application achieves efficient preservation of meat products by precisely controlling the temperature and humidity of a dedicated refrigerator compartment. This method not only improves the efficiency of refrigerator use but also provides users with a better user experience.

[0051] Continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, it also includes the following steps:

[0052] S210: Determine whether the current temperature of the refrigerator zone is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold T0. If so, start timing.

[0053] This step involves monitoring the temperature of the refrigerator's designated area in real time and determining whether cooling of meat products is necessary based on a first temperature threshold T0. When the temperature reaches or exceeds the set first temperature threshold T0, it indicates that the temperature in the designated area is already too high, which is detrimental to the preservation of meat products. At this point, the system starts timing to prepare for the subsequent compressor shutdown operation.

[0054] S220: When the timer reaches the preset time, the refrigerator compressor will be stopped and the cooling supply to all compartments of the refrigerator will be stopped.

[0055] After a certain cooling time, in order to avoid excessive energy consumption and mechanical wear caused by prolonged compressor operation, and to maintain the current temperature, the system will control the compressor to stop and stop cooling all compartments of the refrigerator.

[0056] S230: Start the natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment, and obtain the current temperature of the evaporator. Determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3. If so, turn on the refrigerator compartment fan and start the humidification operation of the refrigerator compartment.

[0057] After the compressor stops, the humidity inside the refrigerator compartment is regulated by activating the natural defrosting and humidification program. The natural defrosting process helps remove frost accumulated on the evaporator and increases the humidity inside the refrigerator compartment. In this embodiment, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained and compared with a set fourth temperature threshold T3 to determine whether the refrigerator compartment fan needs to be turned on for humidification. When the evaporator temperature reaches or falls below T3, it indicates that the humidity inside the refrigerator compartment has reached a level suitable for meat preservation. At this time, turning on the fan can further promote the even distribution of humidity and improve the preservation effect.

[0058] Furthermore, the fourth temperature threshold T3 is set to a temperature value that controls the humidity of the air above the meat to near saturation. This means that when the evaporator temperature reaches this threshold, the humidity inside the refrigerator will be close to saturation, providing a moist preservation environment for meat products. This humidity condition helps maintain the moisture and texture of the meat, preventing nutrient loss and quality degradation caused by dryness.

[0059] In some embodiments of this application, the fourth temperature threshold T3 ranges from 5°C to 12°C, which is based on a comprehensive consideration of the operating characteristics of the cold storage compartment and the needs of meat preservation. This range ensures that the humidity in the cold storage compartment is neither too high, causing condensation on the surface of the meat, nor too low, causing the meat to dry out. Within this range, the humidity can be effectively regulated, which can both meet the needs of meat preservation and prevent unnecessary energy consumption and frost problems in the cold storage compartment.

[0060] In this embodiment, by precisely controlling the compressor's running time, the natural defrosting and humidification process of the refrigerator compartment, and the timing of the fan's activation, the temperature and humidity of the refrigerator's designated area are effectively regulated, thereby ensuring that meat products can maintain optimal freshness and taste in the refrigerator.

[0061] In some embodiments of this application, in step S300, the refrigerator zone is controlled to run in a cooling mode. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to the second temperature threshold T1, but the temperature of the zone does not reach the first temperature threshold T0, the fan of the refrigerator compartment is turned off, and the refrigeration system of other compartments of the refrigerator is turned on or the entire refrigerator is shut down.

[0062] Specifically, when the refrigerator compartment temperature drops to the second temperature threshold T1, it indicates that the temperature has reached a relatively low level, which is conducive to the preservation of meat. However, if the temperature in the refrigerator compartment has not yet reached the first temperature threshold T0, meaning the ambient temperature of the meat is still relatively high, this will affect its preservation effect. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the refrigerator's operating status at this time to better meet the preservation needs of meat.

[0063] Secondly, turning off the refrigerator's fan reduces airflow within the refrigerator, thus slowing the rate at which the temperature drops. This prevents meat from freezing due to excessively low refrigerator temperatures and also helps save energy.

[0064] Next, turning on the cooling systems of other compartments or shutting down the entire refrigerator is to optimize the refrigerator's operating efficiency based on the current internal temperature distribution and cooling needs. If the temperature in other compartments also needs to be lowered, turning on their cooling systems ensures that the entire refrigerator reaches the ideal preservation temperature. If the overall refrigerator temperature is already low enough, shutting down the entire refrigerator saves energy and avoids over-cooling.

[0065] In some embodiments of this application, at least one temperature sensor is provided in the refrigerator compartment to collect the temperature of the refrigerator compartment. When there are multiple temperature sensors, the average value of the temperature sensors is taken as the current temperature in the refrigerator compartment.

[0066] By collecting real-time temperature data from a dedicated temperature zone within the refrigerator, the system accurately assesses the ambient temperature of meat products. Based on this temperature reading, it determines whether to initiate cooling programs, control the refrigerator's operation, and adjust humidity levels—key operations that require adjustment. Through precise temperature monitoring, the system ensures that meat products are always kept in an ideal preservation environment.

[0067] Furthermore, when multiple temperature sensors are installed within the refrigerator compartment, the accuracy and reliability of the temperature data can be further improved by taking the average value of these sensors as the current temperature. Since the temperature distribution inside a refrigerator may be uneven, a single sensor may not be able to fully reflect the temperature conditions of the entire area. The average value of multiple sensors, however, can more accurately reflect the overall temperature of the refrigerator compartment, thus ensuring the precision and effectiveness of the control method.

[0068] In some embodiments of this application, the air vents of the refrigerator compartment are fully opened for cooling operation, and the air vents of the refrigerator zone are partially opened for cooling operation.

[0069] The primary function of the refrigerator compartment's air damper is to regulate airflow and temperature distribution within the refrigerator. During cooling operation, by controlling the refrigerator compartment damper to be fully open, cold air can be ensured to circulate fully within the refrigerator, rapidly lowering the temperature and thus meeting the preservation requirements of meat products. The design of the refrigerator's dedicated zone dampers focuses more on precise control of temperature and humidity in specific areas. During cooling operation, by controlling the refrigerator's dedicated zone damper to be partially open, the flow rate of cold air can be limited, allowing the temperature within that zone to decrease gradually rather than abruptly. This helps prevent meat products from being affected by rapid temperature changes and also helps save energy.

[0070] In some embodiments of this application, the vent of the refrigerator compartment is fully opened for humidification, and the vent of the refrigerator zone is partially opened for humidification.

[0071] During humidification operation, keeping the refrigerator compartment air vents fully open helps distribute humid air evenly, increasing the humidity level inside the refrigerator and maintaining the moisture and texture of meat products. Meanwhile, keeping the refrigerator compartment air vents partially open helps maintain stable humidity within the refrigerator compartment, preventing excessively high or low humidity levels from negatively impacting meat products.

[0072] In this embodiment, the design of the air dampers in the refrigerator compartment and refrigerator zone aims to create an ideal preservation environment for meat products through precise control of airflow and temperature and humidity. This design not only improves the refrigerator's preservation effect and extends the food's storage period but also saves energy by optimizing operation. In practical applications, this damper design can be flexibly adjusted according to different preservation needs and refrigerator operating conditions to meet diverse user requirements.

[0073] The second aspect of this application provides a meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system for implementing any of the above-mentioned meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control methods, referring to... Figure 2 As shown, it includes: a first temperature acquisition module, a first judgment module, a first control module, a timing module, a second temperature acquisition module, a second judgment module, and a second control module; the first temperature acquisition module, the first judgment module, the first control module, the timing module, the second temperature acquisition module, the second judgment module, and the second control module are all connected in communication.

[0074] The first temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature within the refrigerator zone and send this current temperature to the first and second judgment modules; real-time acquisition of the current temperature within the refrigerator zone is fundamental to achieving precise control. Temperature data for the zone can be collected using devices such as temperature sensors.

[0075] The first judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold T0, obtain the first judgment result, and send the first judgment result to the first control module and the timing module.

[0076] The first control module is used to receive the first judgment result. When the first judgment result is yes, it controls the refrigerator compartment to run in a cooling mode. The first control module adjusts the refrigeration system of the refrigerator compartment to make the temperature of the refrigerator zone drop rapidly in order to meet the needs of meat preservation.

[0077] The timing module receives the first judgment result. When the judgment result is yes, it starts timing. When the timing reaches the preset time, it sends a timing signal to the second judgment module and the second control module. This is to ensure that subsequent operations can be performed in a timely manner after the temperature in the refrigerator zone drops to a certain level.

[0078] The second temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature of the evaporator and send it to the second judgment module. The compressor temperature is a crucial parameter for determining the refrigerator's operating status and cooling effect, providing data support for subsequent judgments and control.

[0079] The second judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and whether the refrigerator compartment temperature has reached the shutdown point, obtain the second judgment result, and send the second judgment result to the second control module.

[0080] It is also used to receive the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2, obtain the third judgment result, and send the third judgment result to the second control module.

[0081] It is also used to receive timing signals, obtain the current temperature of the evaporator based on the timing signals, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3, obtain the fourth judgment result, and send the fourth judgment result to the second control module.

[0082] The second control module is used to receive the second judgment result. When the second judgment result is yes, it controls the solenoid valve to switch to other compartments for cooling and controls the cold storage compartment to stop cooling.

[0083] It is also used to receive the third judgment result. When the third judgment result is yes, the fan in the refrigerator compartment is turned on to humidify the refrigerator compartment.

[0084] It is also used to receive the fourth judgment result and timing signal, control the refrigerator compressor to stop according to the timing signal, stop the cooling of all compartments of the refrigerator, start the natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment, and when the fourth judgment result is yes, turn on the fan of the refrigerator compartment to humidify the refrigerator compartment.

[0085] In this embodiment, the modules work together to form a complete meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system. Through precise temperature control and humidity adjustment, the system can ensure that meat products maintain optimal freshness and taste in the refrigerator, thereby extending their shelf life.

[0086] A third aspect of the embodiments of this application provides a refrigerator, referring to... Figure 3 As shown, the refrigerator is equipped with a meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system as described above.

[0087] As can be seen from the above, this application provides a method, control system, and refrigerator for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat. The method includes the following steps: obtaining the current temperature in a dedicated area of ​​the refrigerator, where the dedicated area is a variable temperature drawer in the refrigerator compartment or a portion of the area isolated within the variable temperature drawer; determining whether the current temperature of the dedicated area is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold T0, and if so, controlling the refrigerator compartment to perform cooling operation; wherein, the first temperature threshold T0 is the highest temperature value at which meat is kept in a supercooled state; when the temperature of the dedicated area of ​​the refrigerator drops to less than or equal to a second temperature threshold T1, and the refrigerator compartment reaches the stop point, turning the solenoid valve to other compartments of the refrigerator and stopping the cooling supply to the refrigerator compartment; obtaining the current temperature of the evaporator, determining whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to a third temperature threshold T2, and if so, turning on the refrigerator compartment fan, and the refrigerator compartment to perform humidification operation, wherein the third temperature threshold T2 is the temperature value at which the water collected in the evaporator changes from a solid state to a gaseous state. This application extends the shelf life from one week to four weeks through a moisturizing micro-freezing method. The high humidity in the designated area reduces ice crystals on the meat surface, minimizing surface drying and improving the meat's texture and nutrient retention, resulting in a better user experience. The humidification process in the evaporator also reduces frost buildup, preventing ice accumulation and improving system reliability.

[0088] It should be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a structure, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a structure, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the structure, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0089] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat, characterized in that, Including the following steps: Obtain the current temperature within a designated area of ​​the refrigerator, where the designated area is a temperature-controlled drawer in the refrigerator compartment, or a portion of the temperature-controlled drawer that is isolated from the temperature-controlled drawer. Determine whether the current temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold T0. If so, start timing and control the refrigerator compartment to run in a cooling mode. The first temperature threshold T0 is the highest temperature value at which the meat food is kept in a supercooled state. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and the refrigerator compartment reaches the shutdown point, the solenoid valve is switched to the other compartments of the refrigerator, and the cooling supply to the refrigerator compartment is stopped. The current temperature of the evaporator is obtained, and it is determined whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2. If so, the fan of the refrigerator compartment is turned on, and the refrigerator compartment is put into humidification operation. The third temperature threshold T2 is the temperature value at which the water collected in the evaporator changes from solid to gas. When the accumulated time reaches the preset time, the refrigerator compressor will be stopped, and the cooling supply to all compartments of the refrigerator will be stopped. The natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment is started, and the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. It is determined whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3. If so, the refrigerator compartment fan is turned on, and the refrigerator compartment is put into humidification operation. The fourth temperature threshold T3 is the temperature value that controls the air humidity on the surface of the meat to be close to saturation.

2. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerator compartment is controlled to operate in a cooling mode. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment drops to the second temperature threshold T1, but the temperature of the compartment does not reach the first temperature threshold T0, the fan of the refrigerator compartment is turned off, the cooling system of other compartments of the refrigerator is turned on, or the entire refrigerator is shut down.

3. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerator compartment is equipped with at least one temperature sensor to collect the temperature of the refrigerator compartment. When there are multiple temperature sensors, the average value of the temperature sensors is taken as the current temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

4. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first temperature threshold T0 has a value range of -3℃ to -1℃; the second temperature threshold T1 has a value range of -12℃ to -3℃.

5. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third temperature threshold T2 has a value range of 0℃ to 8℃, and the fourth temperature threshold T3 has a value range of 5℃ to 12℃.

6. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerator compartment's air vents are fully opened for cooling operation, while the refrigerator zone's air vents are partially opened for cooling operation.

7. The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The humidification operation is performed by fully opening the air vent of the refrigerator compartment and by partially opening the air vent of the refrigerator zone.

8. A meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system, characterized in that, The method for controlling the moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation of meat according to any one of claims 1-7 includes: a first temperature acquisition module, a first judgment module, a first control module, a timing module, a second temperature acquisition module, a second judgment module, and a second control module; The first temperature acquisition module, the first judgment module, the first control module, the timing module, the second temperature acquisition module, the second judgment module, and the second control module are all connected by communication. The first temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature in the refrigerator zone and send the current temperature in the refrigerator zone to the first judgment module and the second judgment module; The first judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, and determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is greater than or equal to a first temperature threshold T0, obtain a first judgment result, and send the first judgment result to the first control module and the timing module. The first control module is used to receive the first judgment result, and when the first judgment result is yes, control the cold storage compartment to perform cooling operation; The timing module is used to receive the first judgment result, start timing when the judgment result is yes, and send a timing signal to the second judgment module and the second control module when the timing reaches a preset time. The second temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the current temperature of the evaporator and send the current temperature of the evaporator to the second judgment module; The second judgment module is used to receive the current temperature in the refrigerator zone, and determine whether the current temperature in the refrigerator zone is less than or equal to the second temperature threshold T1, and whether the temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the shutdown point, to obtain the second judgment result, and send the second judgment result to the second control module; It is also used to receive the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the third temperature threshold T2, obtain the third determination result, and send the third determination result to the second control module; It is also used to receive the timing signal, and based on the timing signal, obtain the current temperature of the evaporator, determine whether the current temperature of the evaporator is less than or equal to the fourth temperature threshold T3, obtain the fourth determination result, and send the fourth determination result to the second control module; The second control module is used to receive the second judgment result. When the second judgment result is yes, it controls the solenoid valve to switch to other compartments for cooling and controls the refrigerator compartment to stop cooling. It is also used to receive a third judgment result, and when the third judgment result is yes, to turn on the fan of the refrigerator compartment to humidify the refrigerator compartment; It is also used to receive the fourth judgment result and the timing signal, control the refrigerator compressor to stop according to the timing signal, stop the cooling of all compartments of the refrigerator, start the natural defrosting and humidification program of the refrigerator compartment, and when the fourth judgment result is yes, turn on the fan of the refrigerator compartment to humidify the refrigerator compartment.

9. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator is equipped with a meat moisturizing and micro-freezing preservation control system as described in claim 8.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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