Preservation control method, device, and refrigerator
By setting up independent storage containers in the refrigerator and adjusting the air duct according to the environment and the information of the refrigerator compartment, the problem of low temperature control accuracy of the refrigerator is solved, and professional storage of fish and meat is achieved to maintain the quality and taste of the food.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HEFEI HUALING CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-12-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
When storing different types of food in the same compartment, existing refrigerators have low temperature control accuracy and cannot effectively take into account the impact of the environment and the temperature of the refrigerator compartment on the ice-temperature compartment, resulting in a decline in food quality.
By setting up independent first and second storage containers in the refrigerator to store different types of food, and by dynamically adjusting the opening and closing of the air duct damper in combination with ambient temperature and refrigerator compartment settings, precise temperature control can be achieved.
It improves the temperature control precision of different foods in the refrigerator, reduces the impact of cross-contamination of odors, and maintains the quality and taste of the food, especially the professional storage effect of fish and meat.
Smart Images
Figure CN118208888B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and particularly to preservation control methods, devices, and refrigerators. Background Technology
[0002] With the rise of fresh food e-commerce in recent years, people's demand for meat and fresh ingredients has gradually shifted from long-term storage to short-term storage. From the perspective of current refrigerator technology, 0℃ preservation and micro-freezing technologies are well-suited for the short-term storage needs of fresh meat. Refrigerator temperature control technology effectively inhibits the action of microorganisms and enzymes during the storage of meat, thus extending its shelf life. In related technologies, different types of food are placed in two different containers within the same compartment, such as separating fish from other meats. However, when controlling the temperature of the two containers, only the temperature detected by a single sensor is used as a reference, without considering other influencing factors, resulting in low temperature control accuracy. Summary of the Invention
[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a preservation control method that can improve temperature control accuracy.
[0004] The present invention also proposes an ice-temperature preservation control device, a refrigerator, and a storage medium that apply the above-mentioned preservation control method.
[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a preservation control method is applied to a refrigerator, the refrigerator including a cabinet, a first storage container, and a second storage container. The cabinet has a refrigerator compartment, an ice-temperature compartment, and an air supply duct. The ice-temperature compartment is connected to the air supply duct, the air supply duct is used to supply air to the ice-temperature compartment, and the air supply duct is provided with an air damper. The first storage container and the second storage container are located in the ice-temperature compartment. The first storage container has a first storage space, and the second storage container has a second storage space. The control method includes: Acquire target information, a first storage temperature of the first storage space and a second storage temperature of the second storage space, wherein the target information includes at least one of the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigerator compartment; Based on the target information and the second storage temperature, a first temperature parameter value and a second temperature parameter value are obtained, wherein the first temperature parameter value is greater than the second temperature parameter value; When the temperature of the first storage item is greater than the first temperature parameter value, the damper is opened; When the temperature of the first storage item is lower than the second temperature parameter value, the damper is closed.
[0006] The preservation control method according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: by comprehensively considering the ambient temperature of the refrigerator, the refrigeration setting of the refrigerator compartment, and the temperature of the second storage container, these factors are converted into temperature parameter values for temperature control. These values serve as the basis for opening or closing the air damper, and different temperature parameter values are called according to different temperatures, thereby improving the accuracy of temperature control. Furthermore, the temperature of the first storage space is also adjusted according to the temperature of the second storage space, so that the first and second storage containers are maintained in a balanced relationship.
[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the refrigerator stores multiple sets of parameter configuration information, each set of parameter configuration information including multiple target information, a first temperature parameter value, and a second temperature parameter value. The target information includes the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigerator compartment. Obtaining the first temperature parameter value and the second temperature parameter value based on the target information and the second storage temperature includes: The corresponding parameter configuration information set is called according to the second storage temperature, and the corresponding first temperature parameter value and second temperature parameter value are selected from the called parameter configuration information set according to the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigeration compartment.
[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the parameter configuration information set includes multiple consecutively set temperature ranges corresponding to the ambient temperature of the refrigerator, and each temperature range and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigerator compartment correspond to a set of first temperature parameter values and second temperature parameter values.
[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the refrigerator stores a first temperature range value, a second temperature range value, and a third temperature range value, which are continuously set from large to small, corresponding to the second storage temperature. The number of parameter configuration information sets is three, and each of the three parameter configuration information sets corresponds one-to-one with the first temperature range value, the second temperature range value, and the third temperature range value. The control method includes: When the second storage temperature is within the first temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is the first upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is the first lower limit value. When the second storage temperature is within the second temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is the second upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is the second lower limit value. When the second storage temperature is within the third temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is a third upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is a third lower limit value, wherein the first upper limit value is greater than the second upper limit value, and the second upper limit value is greater than the third upper limit value; the first lower limit value is greater than the second lower limit value, and the second lower limit value is greater than the third lower limit value.
[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first temperature range value is: the second storage temperature is greater than 0°C.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second temperature range is: the second storage temperature is greater than or equal to -2°C and less than or equal to 0°C.
[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the third temperature range value is: the second storage temperature is less than -2°C.
[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the air outlet of the air supply duct includes a first air outlet and a second air outlet, the cross-sectional area of the first air outlet is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the second air outlet, and the damper controls the opening and closing of the first air outlet and the second air outlet simultaneously; the first air outlet is used to supply air to the first storage space of the first storage container, and the second air outlet is used to supply air to the second storage space of the second storage container.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first storage container is placed on top of the second storage container, a first temperature sensor is provided on the top of the first storage container, and a second temperature sensor is provided on the second storage container, the second temperature sensor contacting the bottom of the second storage container; the acquisition of target information, the first storage temperature of the first storage space, and the second storage temperature of the second storage space includes: Obtain the temperature of the first storage item as measured by the first temperature sensor; The temperature of the second storage container is obtained from the second temperature sensor.
[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the control method includes: Obtain the start signal for the two-tiered storage mode; When the refrigerator door is closed, the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor are activated.
[0016] A refrigerator control device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes: a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the preservation control method of the first aspect of the present invention.
[0017] A refrigerator according to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention includes a control device according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform a preservation control method as described in the first aspect of the present invention.
[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0020] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the cold storage compartment and the ice-temperature compartment; Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the first and second storage containers in the withdrawn state. Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a preservation control method according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a system architecture diagram of a control device according to certain embodiments of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a system architecture diagram of a refrigerator according to certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] Figure label: 100. Refrigerator; 101. Cabinet; 102. Refrigerator compartment; 103. Ice-temperature compartment; 104. Freezer compartment; 105. Air duct; 106. First temperature sensor; 107. Second temperature sensor; 108. First air outlet; 109. Second air outlet; 110. First storage space; 111. Second storage space; 301. First storage container; 302. Second storage container; 303. First opening; 304. Second opening; 305. Handle; 306. Drawer front panel; 1000, Control device; 1001, Processor; 1002, Memory; 1003, Bus. Detailed Implementation
[0022] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
[0023] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.
[0024] In the description of this invention, "several" means one or more, "more than" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.
[0025] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "set up," "install," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.
[0026] Temperature is an essential condition for food preservation. Food preservation requires a constant temperature and a suitable low temperature, ensuring that the temperature fluctuates within a minimal range, which is more conducive to food preservation. To ensure a constant temperature and a suitable low temperature, existing refrigerators are designed with an ice-temperature compartment, which is usually located between the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment.
[0027] With the rise of fresh food e-commerce in recent years, people's demand for meat and fresh food has gradually shifted from long-term storage to short-term storage. From the perspective of current refrigerator technology, ice temperature technologies such as 0℃ preservation and micro-freezing preservation are more suitable for the short-term storage needs of meat and fresh food.
[0028] Conventional freezing processes typically involve temperatures as low as -18°C or even lower, freezing most of the water in food. During freezing, ice crystals first form in the extracellular solution. Under osmotic pressure, water flows out of the cells, eventually crystallizing both inside and outside the cells. As water crystals crystallize, their volume increases, and the surface of the ice crystals develops spikes, which can damage the cell membrane. Conventionally frozen foods, being in a hard, frozen state, are difficult to process directly and generally require a lengthy thawing process. During thawing, the damaged cell solution leaks out, producing blood and leading to a significant loss of nutrients. In contrast, microfreezing technology lightly freezes food at temperatures near its freezing point, causing only partial freezing and effectively reducing cell damage from ice crystals. Furthermore, it allows for processing without thawing. Compared to ordinary low-temperature refrigeration, microfreezing significantly extends shelf life. Therefore, for foods like fish and meat that require only short-term (1-2 weeks) storage, microfreezing is more effective than conventional freezing.
[0029] However, the core freezing point of meat is around -1.5 to -2.5℃, while that of fish is around -0.5 to -1℃. Due to the significant difference in muscle composition between fish and meat, when fish and meat are stored together in a slightly frozen environment, the temperature may be higher than the core freezing point of the meat, causing the meat to spoil easily. Alternatively, if the temperature is lower than the core freezing point of the fish, the recrystallization of ice crystals in the fish cells accelerates cell membrane rupture, leading to the release of proteases and accelerating the fish's adverse reactions. On the other hand, ice crystals cause protein denaturation, reducing water retention and resulting in a deterioration in both the color and texture of the fish during storage.
[0030] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment includes a cabinet 101, and the cabinet 101 is provided with a refrigerator compartment 102, an ice-temperature compartment 103, and a freezer compartment 104. The ice-temperature compartment 103 is located between the refrigerator compartment 102 and the freezer compartment 104, and the ice-temperature compartment 103 is a variable temperature compartment. (Ref.) Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the refrigerator 100 also includes a first storage container 301 and a second storage container 302, both of which are located in the ice-temperature compartment 103.
[0031] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, it can be understood that the first storage container 301 is configured as an upper sliding tray, that is, the top of the first storage container 301 has a first opening 303, and the second storage container 302 is configured as a lower drawer, that is, the top of the second storage container 302 has a second opening 304. In other words, the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302 can be combined to form a temperature-controlled fresh-keeping drawer. The temperature-controlled fresh-keeping drawer includes two parts: an upper sliding tray and a lower drawer. The upper sliding tray is located on the upper part of the lower drawer, and a handle 305 is provided at the front of the upper sliding tray. After the lower drawer is pulled out, the user can pull out or push in the upper sliding tray through the handle 305 to slide it back and forth, and can choose to take out food from the upper sliding tray or the lower drawer. When the upper sliding tray is completely attached to the upper part of the lower drawer, the lower drawer forms a relatively sealed space, which has a good moisturizing effect for exposed food.
[0032] Understandably, the handle 305 is located at the front end of the first storage container 301. Specifically, the left and right sides of the handle 305 are connected to the front end of the first storage container 301, and the front side of the handle 305 protrudes forward, forming a space between the handle 305 and the first storage container 301, making it convenient for the user to put their hand into this space, grab the handle 305, and pull the handle 305 to move the first storage container 301.
[0033] Understandably, the second storage container 302 is equipped with a drawer front panel 306. The drawer front panel 306 is located at the front end of the second storage container 302 and extends upward to the front side of the first storage container 301. This allows the drawer front panel 306 to seal the entrance to the ice-temperature compartment 103 when both the first and second storage containers 301 are in the closed position. Compared to using the front end of the first storage container 301 to seal the upper half of the entrance to the ice-temperature compartment 103, and using the front end of the second storage container 302 to seal the lower half of the entrance to the ice-temperature compartment 103, the drawer front panel 306 of the second storage container 302 seals the entire entrance to the ice-temperature compartment 103. This reduces the gap between the first and second storage containers 301, improves sealing, and reduces cold air leakage.
[0034] Understandably, the housing 101 is provided with a first air outlet 108 and a second air outlet 109. The first air outlet 108 corresponds to the first storage container 301 and is used to supply air to the first storage space 110 of the first storage container 301. The second air outlet 109 corresponds to the second storage container 302 and is used to supply air to the second storage space 111 of the second storage container 302.
[0035] Understandably, the cold air generated by the heat exchange of the refrigerator 100's refrigeration system flows along the air duct and is blown out from the first air outlet 108 and the second air outlet 109. It then enters the first storage space 110 of the first storage container 301 and the second storage space 111 of the second storage container 302, respectively. Since the air temperature is low and the food temperature is high, they directly exchange heat, causing the air temperature to rise and the food temperature to drop. The air after heat exchange returns to the air duct through the return air outlet and exchanges heat with the evaporator of the refrigeration system again. Through this continuous circulation, the temperature of the food is reduced.
[0036] Since the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302 are independent of each other, the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302 can store different kinds of food respectively, reducing the influence of cross-contamination of different kinds of food and making it easier to control the temperature of different kinds of food.
[0037] Understandably, the refrigerator 100 includes a fan and an evaporator. The cabinet 101 is equipped with a cooling air duct, a refrigerator air duct, and a supply air duct 105. The fan and evaporator are located in the cooling air duct. Both the refrigerator air duct and the supply air duct 105 are connected to the cooling air duct. The refrigerator air duct supplies air to the refrigerator compartment 102, and the supply air duct 105 supplies air to the ice-temperature compartment 103. The first air outlet 108 and the second air outlet 109 serve as the air outlets of the supply air duct 105. The supply air duct 105 is equipped with a damper, which simultaneously controls the opening and closing of the first air outlet 108 and the second air outlet 109, that is, the damper controls the opening and closing of the supply air duct 105.
[0038] The different cross-sectional areas of the first air outlet 108 and the second air outlet 109 allow for different temperatures in the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302. For example, the upper first storage container 301 maintains a slightly frozen temperature of -2°C to -3°C, keeping the center of the meat at a freezing point of -1.5°C, ensuring the meat is easy to cut and does not freeze. The lower second storage container 302 maintains a temperature of 0 to -1°C, ensuring the center of the fish meat is never lower than its freezing point, reducing the impact of ice crystals on the texture of the fish meat, and maintaining good taste, color, and nutrition. Compared to existing technologies, this method achieves better separate storage of fish and meat.
[0039] It should be noted that the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302 can also be placed in layers along the left and right directions, which can also achieve separate storage at different temperatures. No specific limitations are made here.
[0040] It should be noted that in some other embodiments, only one air outlet may be provided. The air outlet is used to supply air to the ice-temperature chamber 103, that is, to cool down the food in the first storage container 301 and the second storage container 302 by air being supplied through the air outlet.
[0041] Understandably, the first storage container 301 has a first temperature sensor 106 on its top, which is used to detect the temperature of the first storage space 110. The second storage container 302 has a second temperature sensor 107, which contacts the bottom of the second storage container 302. The second temperature sensor 107 is used to detect the surface temperature of the food placed inside the second storage container 302. Detecting the surface temperature of the food using the second temperature sensor 107 can more accurately reflect the temperature changes of the food and accurately infer the core temperature of the food based on the surface temperature. After the temperature of the ice-temperature chamber 103 has stabilized for a period of time, the temperature of the space will generally change to some extent when new food is placed in it. The second temperature sensor 107 located at the bottom of the second storage container 302 cannot accurately sense the temperature change. At this time, the first temperature sensor 106 located at the top of the first storage container 301 can more accurately detect the temperature change and thus feed it back to the control system to achieve more precise temperature control.
[0042] Understandably, the refrigerator 100 can also be equipped with a third temperature sensor to detect the ambient temperature. The ambient temperature also affects the temperature inside the refrigerator 100, especially when the refrigerator door is opened to take out or put in food, as there is a large-scale heat exchange between the inside and outside of the refrigerator 100, making the ambient temperature significantly impact the internal temperature. By incorporating a third temperature sensor to feed back the ambient temperature to the control system, more precise temperature control can be achieved.
[0043] This invention provides a preservation control method applied to the refrigerator described in the above embodiments. The structure or components of the refrigerator have been described in detail in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. (Refer to...) Figure 4 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S410, S420, S430 and S440.
[0044] Step S410: Obtain the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator.
[0045] In one embodiment, the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator can be obtained by a temperature sensor installed on the refrigerator, or by an external detection device and input into the refrigerator.
[0046] Step S420: Based on the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator, call the temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk is greater than Trt.
[0047] In one embodiment, the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator together correspond to multiple different temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk and Trt are different values, with Trk being greater than Trt. Based on the obtained ambient temperature T3 and second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator, the matching Trk and Trt are retrieved for use in the next step.
[0048] Step S430: When the first storage temperature T1 is greater than Trk, open the damper.
[0049] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trk. When T1 is greater than Trk, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is higher than the target temperature. The damper is then opened to allow cold air to enter the ice-temperature chamber, thereby reducing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0050] Step S440: When the first storage temperature T1 is less than Trt, close the damper.
[0051] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trt. When T1 is less than Trt, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is lower than the target temperature. The damper is then closed to prevent cold air from entering the ice-temperature chamber, thereby increasing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0052] Understandably, compared to a method that simply detects the temperature of the refrigerator compartment and then controls heating or cooling based on a comparison with a target temperature, the control method of this embodiment detects both the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2, thus more accurately reflecting the two different storage temperatures and making it easier to detect changes in one of the storage temperatures. Furthermore, the control method of this embodiment also considers the influence of the refrigerator's ambient temperature on its cooling effect, ensuring that both the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 correspond to multiple different temperature parameter values Trk and Trt. Trk and Trt serve as the critical values for opening and closing the damper. The first storage temperature T1 is compared with these two temperature parameter values to determine whether to open or close the damper, achieving precise temperature control.
[0053] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a refrigerator, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S510, S520, S530 and S540.
[0054] Step S510: Obtain the refrigeration setting P of the cold storage compartment and the second storage temperature T2.
[0055] In one embodiment, the refrigeration setting P of the refrigerator compartment can be obtained based on the information received after the user rotates the knob, and the second storage temperature T2 can be obtained by a temperature sensor installed on the refrigerator, or by an external detection device and input into the refrigerator.
[0056] Step S520: Based on the refrigeration setting P of the refrigeration compartment and the second storage temperature T2, call the temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk is greater than Trt.
[0057] In one embodiment, the refrigeration setting P of the refrigerator compartment and the second storage temperature T2 together correspond to multiple different temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk and Trt are different values, with Trk being greater than Trt. Based on the obtained refrigeration setting P and second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator compartment, the matching Trk and Trt are retrieved for use in the next step.
[0058] Step S530: When the first storage temperature T1 is greater than Trk, open the damper.
[0059] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trk. When T1 is greater than Trk, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is higher than the target temperature. The damper is then opened to allow cold air to enter the ice-temperature chamber, thereby reducing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0060] Step S540: When the first storage temperature T1 is less than Trt, close the damper.
[0061] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trt. When T1 is less than Trt, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is lower than the target temperature. The damper is then closed to prevent cold air from entering the ice-temperature chamber, thereby increasing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0062] Understandably, compared to a method that simply detects the temperature of the ice-temperature compartment and then controls heating or cooling based on a comparison with the target temperature, the control method of this embodiment detects both the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2, thus more accurately reflecting the two different storage temperatures and making it easier to detect changes in one of the storage temperatures. Furthermore, the control method of this embodiment also considers the impact of the refrigeration setting of the refrigerator compartment on its cooling effect. Since the ice-temperature compartment and the refrigerator compartment are connected through refrigeration and air supply ducts, the temperature of the refrigerator compartment also affects the temperature of the ice-temperature compartment. The temperature of the refrigerator compartment is controlled by its refrigeration setting P, therefore, the refrigeration setting P is also one of the influencing factors on the temperature of the ice-temperature compartment. The refrigeration setting P of the cold storage compartment and the second storage temperature T2 together correspond to multiple different temperature parameter values Trk and Trt. Trk and Trt serve as the critical values for opening and closing the damper. The first storage temperature T1 is compared with the magnitude of these two temperature parameter values, which serves as the basis for opening or closing the damper, thus achieving precise temperature control.
[0063] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a refrigerator, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S610, S620, S630 and S640.
[0064] Step S610: Obtain the ambient temperature T3 of the refrigerator, the refrigeration setting P of the refrigerator compartment, and the second storage temperature T2.
[0065] In one embodiment, the ambient temperature T3 and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator can be obtained by a temperature sensor installed on the refrigerator, or by an external detection device that detects and inputs the temperature into the refrigerator. The refrigerator compartment's cooling setting P can be obtained based on information received after the user rotates the knob. Step S620: Based on the ambient temperature T3 of the refrigerator, the refrigeration setting P of the refrigerator compartment, and the second storage temperature T2, call the temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk is greater than Trt.
[0066] In one embodiment, the ambient temperature T3, the refrigerator compartment's refrigeration setting P, and the second storage temperature T2 of the refrigerator collectively correspond to multiple different temperature parameter values Trk and Trt, where Trk and Trt are numerical values of different magnitudes, with Trk being greater than Trt. Based on the obtained ambient temperature T3, refrigerator compartment's refrigeration setting P, and second storage temperature T2, the matching Trk and Trt are retrieved for use in the next step.
[0067] Step S630: When the first storage temperature T1 is greater than Trk, open the damper.
[0068] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trk. When T1 is greater than Trk, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is higher than the target temperature. The damper is then opened to allow cold air to enter the ice-temperature chamber, thereby reducing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0069] Step S640: When the first storage temperature T1 is less than Trt, close the damper.
[0070] In one embodiment, the first storage temperature T1 is compared with the temperature parameter value Trt. When T1 is less than Trt, it indicates that the first storage temperature T1 is lower than the target temperature. The damper is then closed to prevent cold air from entering the ice-temperature chamber, thereby increasing the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0071] It should be noted that, based on the obtained ambient temperature T3, refrigerator compartment setting P, and second storage temperature T2, the matching Trk and Trt can be retrieved in various ways. For example, after extensive thermodynamic calculations, simulations, empirical models, and prototype measurements, the correspondence between the ambient temperature T3, refrigerator compartment setting P, and second storage temperature T2 and the temperature parameter values Trk and Trt can be obtained, and each value can be recorded and stored. This allows the retrieval of the matching Trk and Trt after obtaining the ambient temperature T3, refrigerator compartment setting P, and second storage temperature T2. Alternatively, a relational function can be fitted to the recorded values. After obtaining the ambient temperature T3, refrigerator compartment setting P, and second storage temperature T2, the fitted relational function can be called to obtain the corresponding Trk and Trt.
[0072] In one embodiment, the refrigerator stores multiple sets of parameter configuration information. Each set of parameter configuration information includes multiple T3, P, Trk, and Trt. Trk and Trt can be selected according to T3 and P. Each set of parameter configuration information corresponds to the second storage temperature T2.
[0073] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a refrigerator, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, step S710.
[0074] Step S710: Call the corresponding parameter configuration information set according to T2, and select the corresponding Trk and Trt from the called parameter configuration information set according to T3 and P.
[0075] Understandably, by setting a parameter configuration information set that includes four parameters: T3, P, Trk, and Trt, and then calling the corresponding parameter configuration information set through T2, the refrigerator achieves coordinated calls between multiple parameters. This allows the refrigerator to comprehensively consider the ambient temperature, the refrigeration setting of the refrigerator compartment, and the temperature of the second storage container, converting these factors into temperature parameter values for temperature control. These values then serve as the basis for opening or closing the damper, thereby improving the accuracy of temperature control.
[0076] In one embodiment, the parameter configuration information set includes multiple consecutively set temperature ranges corresponding to the ambient temperature T3 of the refrigerator. Each temperature range and P correspond to a Trk and a Trt. In other words, the information about T3 in the parameter configuration information set is no longer a single value, but is transformed into ranges. Any T3 value in each temperature range has a similar impact on the temperature, thereby reducing the amount of information stored in the parameter configuration information set and improving the efficiency of retrieval while ensuring temperature control accuracy.
[0077] In one embodiment, the refrigerator stores three consecutively set first, second, and third temperature range values corresponding to temperature level T2 (T2). This divides multiple T2 temperature values into three temperature ranges: the first, second, and third temperature ranges. Correspondingly, there are also three sets of parameter configuration information, each corresponding one-to-one with the first, second, and third temperature range values. The first, second, and third temperature range values correspond to three stages of the food's temperature range: the first temperature range corresponds to a temperature range higher than the target temperature, the second temperature range is within the target temperature range, and the third temperature range is lower than the target temperature range. This allows for corresponding control steps, simplifying information processing and improving efficiency.
[0078] The following explanation is provided in three tables.
[0079] Table 1: Set of parameter configuration information for T2 within the first temperature range.
[0080] Table 2: Set of parameter configuration information for T2 within the second temperature range.
[0081] Table 3. Set of parameter configuration information for T2 within the third temperature range.
[0082] As shown in Tables 1 to 3, the three parameter configuration information sets correspond one-to-one with the first temperature range value, the second temperature range value, and the third temperature range value. Within each parameter configuration information set, the ambient temperature T3 is divided into multiple rows, with each row containing a range of ambient temperatures T3. The refrigeration setting P is divided into multiple columns, with each column containing a setting. Trk and Trt correspond to a range and a setting, respectively, thus yielding the corresponding values.
[0083] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a refrigerator, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S810, S820, and S830.
[0084] In step S810, when T2 is within the first temperature range, the value of Trk is Trk1 and the value of Trt is Trt1.
[0085] In one embodiment, based on the obtained second storage temperature T2 and other parameters, when T2 falls within the first temperature range, the matching Trk1 and Trt1 are invoked.
[0086] In step S820, when T2 is within the second temperature range, the value of Trk is Trk2 and the value of Trt is Trt2.
[0087] In one embodiment, based on the obtained second storage temperature T2 and other parameters, when T2 falls within the second temperature range, the matching Trk2 and Trt2 are invoked.
[0088] Step S830: When T2 is within the third temperature range, Trk is Trk3 and Trt is Trt3, where Trk1≥Trk2≥Trk3 and Trt1≥Trt2≥Trt3.
[0089] In one embodiment, based on the obtained second storage temperature T2 and other parameters, when T2 falls within the third temperature range, the matching Trk3 and Trt3 are invoked, and the following size relationship exists: Trk1≥Trk2≥Trk3, Trt1≥Trt2≥Trt3.
[0090] In one embodiment, the first temperature range is T2 > 0°C. Because the temperature of food generally drops below 0°C after being stored in the ice-temperature room for a period of time, a first temperature range of T2 > 0°C allows for more accurate detection of whether meat has been added, enabling the ice-temperature room to enter the rapid cooling phase.
[0091] In one embodiment, the second temperature range is -2℃≤T2≤0℃. At this time, the ice-temperature chamber enters the low-temperature zone, maintaining the meat temperature within the freezing point range of 0℃ to -2℃.
[0092] In one embodiment, the third temperature range is T2 < -2°C. At this time, the temperature of the meat is sensed to be lower than the predetermined temperature, and the ice-temperature chamber enters the warming phase, causing the meat temperature to rise back to the freezing point temperature range.
[0093] For example, in one embodiment, a first temperature sensor is located at the top of the first storage container to detect the space temperature of the first storage space. A second temperature sensor is in contact with the bottom of the second storage container to detect the surface temperature of the food placed inside the second storage container. That is, T1 is the ice-temperature chamber temperature measured by the first temperature sensor, and T2 is the meat temperature measured by the second temperature sensor. The second temperature sensor detects the temperature in real time. When it senses that meat has been placed inside, i.e., T2 is within the first temperature range, the ice-temperature chamber enters a rapid cooling phase, with T1 controlled within the range of -2°C to -5°C, i.e., Trk1 is -2°C and Trt1 is -5°C. When it is determined that the meat has cooled to -0.5°C, i.e., T2 is within the second temperature range, the ice-temperature chamber enters a low-temperature phase, with T1 controlled within the range of 1°C to -2°C, i.e., Trk2 is 1°C and Trt2 is -2°C, maintaining the meat temperature within the freezing point range of 0°C to -2°C. When the meat temperature is below -2℃, i.e., T2 is in the third temperature range, the ice-temperature chamber enters the warming phase. T1 controls the ice-temperature chamber temperature within the range of 2℃ to -1℃, i.e., Trk3 is 2℃ and Trt3 is -1℃. When the meat temperature is determined to reach -1℃, it immediately enters the low-temperature phase and repeats the above process.
[0094] It should be noted that the first temperature range value, the second temperature range value, and the third temperature range value can also be other values, and are not limited to the examples mentioned above.
[0095] Different storage temperatures significantly affect the texture and color of meat products. For example, fish has a higher water content and lower fat content, so its freezing point is higher than that of other meat products. Because the muscle composition of fish differs greatly from that of meat, when fish is stored in a slightly frozen environment, the recrystallization of ice crystals in the cells accelerates cell membrane rupture, leading to the release of proteases and accelerating adverse reactions in the fish. Furthermore, ice crystals cause protein denaturation, reducing water-holding capacity, resulting in a deterioration in both the color and texture of the fish during storage.
[0096] In one embodiment, an air supply duct is used to supply air to the ice-temperature chamber. A first air outlet and a second air outlet serve as the outlets of the air supply duct. The air supply duct is equipped with a damper, which simultaneously controls the opening and closing of both the first and second air outlets; that is, the damper controls the opening and closing of the air supply duct. The first and second air outlets have different cross-sectional areas, thus allowing the first and second storage containers to have different temperatures. For example, the upper first storage container maintains a slightly frozen temperature of -2°C to -3°C, maintaining the meat's center at a freezing point of -1.5°C, ensuring the meat is easy to cut and does not freeze. The lower second storage container maintains a temperature of 0 to -1°C, ensuring the fish's center temperature never falls below its freezing point, reducing the impact of ice crystals on the fish's texture, and maintaining good fish taste, color, and nutrition. Compared to existing technologies, this method better achieves separate storage of fish and meat.
[0097] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a refrigerator, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S910 and S920.
[0098] Step S910: Obtain the start signal for the dual-layer storage mode.
[0099] It is understandable that the start signal can be sent via a button or via a mobile terminal.
[0100] Step S920: When the refrigerator door is closed, the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor are activated.
[0101] In one embodiment, the refrigerator also includes a door opening / closing detection component, positioned between the refrigerator body and the door panel. This component detects the opening and closing of the door panel. When a door opening / closing trigger signal is detected by the detection component, it activates the first and second temperature sensors. It should be noted that the door opening / closing trigger signal here refers to the signal generated by the detection component when it detects the refrigerator door panel changing from an open to a closed state; that is, a door opening / closing trigger signal is generated when the door panel changes from an open to a closed state. The controller can trigger the first and second temperature sensors to start operating based on the door opening / closing trigger signal, thereby precisely controlling the start time of temperature control and reducing misjudgments or erroneous operations.
[0102] See Figure 10 As shown, the following is combined Figure 10 The flowchart shown illustrates the working process of the refrigerator before and after entering the ice-temperature preservation stage, as well as an example of a usage scenario.
[0103] The user long-presses the button to start the double-layer storage mode and put the food ingredients. The order of these two steps is not specified. Then, when the controller senses that the refrigerated door is closed, the first sensor and the second sensor are activated to detect the first storage temperature T1 and the second storage temperature T2.
[0104] When T2 > 0°C, read the current refrigerator ambient temperature T, match the interval N according to the current ambient temperature T, and read the refrigeration gear P. According to the interval N and the refrigeration gear P, match Trk1 and Trt1. When T1 > Trk1, the air damper is activated; when T1 < Trt1, the air damper is closed.
[0105] When -2°C ≤ T2 ≤ 0°C, read the current refrigerator ambient temperature T, match the interval N according to the current ambient temperature T, and read the refrigeration gear P. According to the interval N and the refrigeration gear P, match Trk1 and Trt1. When T1 > Trk2, the air damper is activated; when T¬1 < Trt2, the air damper is closed.
[0106] When T2 < -2°C, read the current refrigerator ambient temperature T, match the interval N according to the current ambient temperature T, and read the refrigeration gear P. According to the interval N and the refrigeration gear P, match Trk1 and Trt1. When T1 > Trk3, the air damper is activated; when T¬1 < Trt3, the air damper is closed.
[0107] The user long-presses again to turn off the double-layer storage mode, and the double-layer storage mode ends.
[0108] Refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the control device 1000 provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The control device 1000 of the embodiment of the present invention is built into the refrigerator 100 and includes one or more control processors 1001 and a memory 1002. Figure 11 In
[0109] The control processor 1001 and the memory 1002 can be connected through a bus 1003 or other means. In the figure, the connection through the bus 1003 is taken as an example.
[0110] The memory 1002, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, the memory 1002 may include high-speed random access memory 1002, and may also include non-transitory memory 1002, such as at least one disk storage device 1002, a flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state memory 1002. In some embodiments, the memory 1002 may optionally include memory 1002 remotely located relative to the control processor 1001, and these remote memories 1002 can be connected to the control device 1000 via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, corporate intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.
[0111] Those skilled in the art will understand that the device structure shown in the figure does not constitute a limitation on the control device 1000, and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.
[0112] The non-transient software program and instructions required to implement the control method applied to the control device 1000 in the above embodiments are stored in the memory 1002. When the controlled processor 1001 executes, the control method applied to the control device 1000 in the above embodiments is executed, for example, the control method described above is executed. Figure 4 Method steps S410 to S440 Figure 5 Method steps S510 to S540 Figure 6 Method steps S610 to S640 Figure 7 Method steps S710, Figure 8 Method steps S810 to S830 Figure 9 The method steps are from S910 to S920.
[0113] Reference Figure 12 , Figure 12 The refrigerator 100 provided in one embodiment of the present invention includes the control device 1000 of the above embodiment.
[0114] Since the refrigerator 100 in this embodiment has the control device 1000 as in any of the above embodiments, the ice in this embodiment has the hardware structure of the control device 1000 in the above embodiments, and the control processor 1001 in the control device 1000 can call the control program of the refrigerator 100 stored in the memory 1002 to realize the control of the control device 1000. The specific implementation of the refrigerator 100 in this embodiment can refer to the above embodiments. To avoid redundancy, it will not be described again here.
[0115] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.
[0116] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that are executed by one or more control processors 1001, for example, by... Figure 10 One or more control processors 1001 execute the control method described in the above method embodiments, for example, the control method described above. Figure 4 Method steps S410 to S440 Figure 5 Method steps S510 to S540 Figure 6 Method steps S610 to S640 Figure 7 Method steps S710, Figure 8 Method steps S810 to S830 Figure 9 The method steps are from S910 to S920.
[0117] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps and systems in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, and suitable combinations thereof. Some or all of the physical components can be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software can be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically contain computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.
[0118] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
Claims
1. A method for controlling freshness, characterized in that, The invention relates to a refrigerator, comprising a cabinet, a first storage container, and a second storage container. The cabinet has a refrigerator compartment, an ice-temperature compartment, and an air supply duct. The ice-temperature compartment is connected to the air supply duct, which supplies air to the ice-temperature compartment. The air supply duct has a damper. The first and second storage containers are located within the ice-temperature compartment, and their temperatures are different. The first storage container has a first storage space, and the second storage container has a second storage space. A first temperature sensor is located on the top of the first storage container, and a second temperature sensor is located on the second storage container, with the second temperature sensor contacting the bottom of the second storage container. The control method includes: The system acquires target information, a first storage temperature of the first storage space, and a second storage temperature of the second storage space. The target information includes at least one of the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigerator compartment. The first storage temperature is measured by the first temperature sensor, and the second storage temperature is measured by the second temperature sensor. Based on the target information and the second storage temperature, a first temperature parameter value and a second temperature parameter value are obtained, wherein the first temperature parameter value is greater than the second temperature parameter value; When the temperature of the first storage item is greater than the first temperature parameter value, the damper is opened; When the temperature of the first storage item is lower than the second temperature parameter value, the damper is closed.
2. The preservation control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerator stores multiple sets of parameter configuration information. Each set of parameter configuration information includes multiple target information, a first temperature parameter value, and a second temperature parameter value. The target information includes the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigerator compartment. Obtaining the first temperature parameter value and the second temperature parameter value based on the target information and the second storage temperature includes: The corresponding parameter configuration information set is called according to the second storage temperature, and the corresponding first temperature parameter value and second temperature parameter value are selected from the called parameter configuration information set according to the ambient temperature of the refrigerator and the refrigeration setting information of the refrigeration compartment.
3. The preservation control method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The parameter configuration information set includes multiple consecutively set temperature ranges corresponding to the ambient temperature of the refrigerator. Each temperature range and the refrigerator compartment's refrigeration setting information correspond to a set of first temperature parameter values and second temperature parameter values.
4. The preservation control method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The refrigerator stores a first temperature range, a second temperature range, and a third temperature range, which are set continuously from largest to smallest, corresponding to the second storage temperature. The number of parameter configuration information sets is three, and each of the three parameter configuration information sets corresponds one-to-one with the first temperature range, the second temperature range, and the third temperature range. The control method includes: When the second storage temperature is within the first temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is the first upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is the first lower limit value. When the second storage temperature is within the second temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is the second upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is the second lower limit value. When the second storage temperature is within the third temperature range, the first temperature parameter value is a third upper limit value, and the second temperature parameter value is a third lower limit value, wherein the first upper limit value is greater than the second upper limit value, and the second upper limit value is greater than the third upper limit value; the first lower limit value is greater than the second lower limit value, and the second lower limit value is greater than the third lower limit value.
5. The preservation control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first temperature range is defined as follows: the second storage temperature is greater than 0°C.
6. The preservation control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second temperature range is defined as follows: the second storage temperature is greater than or equal to -2℃ and less than or equal to 0℃.
7. The preservation control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The third temperature range value is: the second storage temperature is less than -2℃.
8. The preservation control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air outlet of the air supply duct includes a first air outlet and a second air outlet. The cross-sectional area of the first air outlet is smaller than that of the second air outlet. The damper controls the opening and closing of both the first and second air outlets. The first air outlet is used to supply air to the first storage space of the first storage container, and the second air outlet is used to supply air to the second storage space of the second storage container.
9. The preservation control method according to claim 1 or 8, characterized in that, The first storage container is placed on top of the second storage container.
10. The preservation control method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The control method includes: Obtain the start signal for the two-tiered storage mode; When the refrigerator door is closed, the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor are activated.
11. A control device for a refrigerator, comprising: A memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, characterized in that the processor, when executing the computer program, implements the control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.
12. A refrigerator, characterized in that, Includes the control device as described in claim 11.
13. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform the control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.