Refrigerator

Abstract

The application provides a refrigerator, which comprises a cabinet, a door closing detection assembly and a sterilization and odor removal device. The sterilization and odor removal device comprises a shell, a light source input device, a light source through hole, a photocatalyst catalysis module and a photocatalyst driving part. The photocatalyst driving part drives the photocatalyst catalysis module to move, so as to change the relative position between the photocatalyst catalysis module and the light source input device. When a first signal is received, the power supply connected with the light source input device is turned on, the photocatalyst driving part drives the photocatalyst catalysis module to move, so that the center of the photocatalyst catalysis module coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device, and the photocatalyst catalysis module generates ion groups under the action of the light source of the light source input device, so as to purify the corresponding storage space. When a second signal is received, the power supply connected with the light source input device is turned on, the photocatalyst driving part drives the photocatalyst catalysis module to move away from the light source input device, so that the light source of the light source input device can irradiate the storage space through the light source through hole, so as to sterilize the storage space and / or food materials.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more particularly to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, users have increasingly higher requirements for the sterilization and purification capabilities of refrigerators. The main sterilization and purification technologies currently used in refrigerators include ion technology, ultraviolet light, and photocatalysis. Ion technology can achieve both sterilization and purification, but its sterilization and purification functions rely on the generated ozone. High ozone concentrations have both sterilization and purification effects, but low ozone concentrations (below human safety limits or sensory thresholds) have poor sterilization and purification effects. Ultraviolet light sterilization and photocatalytic purification technologies are more commonly used in refrigerators due to their lower cost. Ultraviolet light sterilization technology has a high effect on removing surface bacteria but no purification effect; photocatalytic technology has a purification effect but no surface bacteria sterilization effect.

[0003] In summary, the commonly used sterilization and purification technologies for refrigerators all have certain shortcomings in terms of overall sterilization and purification effects.

[0004] In view of the above, this application is hereby submitted. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a refrigerator in which the sterilization and purification device sets the photocatalytic module to a movable design, changing the relative position between the photocatalytic module and the light source input device. This solves the problems of ordinary light sterilization technology having no purification effect and ordinary photocatalytic purification having no surface bacteria removal function. It can take into account both sterilization (surface attached bacteria) and compartment purification at a lower cost.

[0006] Therefore, this application aims to provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0007] The box has at least one storage space inside;

[0008] The cabinet door is used to open or close the cabinet.

[0009] A door closure detection component, which is installed on the door or body of the cabinet, is used to detect the status of the storage space;

[0010] A sterilization and purification device, used to sterilize or purify the storage space it is in;

[0011] The controller is electrically connected to the door closing detection component and the sterilization and purification device.

[0012] The sterilization and purification device includes:

[0013] A housing located within a storage space, the housing including an air inlet and an air outlet arranged along its length;

[0014] A light source input device, which is located inside the housing, is used to output light sources of different wavelengths;

[0015] The light source port is an open opening positioned opposite the light source input device;

[0016] The photocatalytic module is movably disposed within the housing. The photocatalytic module is located on the side of the light source input device near the light source port. The photocatalytic module can be moved to block the light source port. The photocatalytic module can react and generate ion clusters under the action of the light source.

[0017] A photocatalytic drive component, which is connected to the photocatalytic module, is used to drive the photocatalytic module to move along the length of the housing to adjust the function of the sterilization and purification device;

[0018] The controller is configured such that, upon receiving the first signal, the power photocatalytic drive component connected to the light source input device moves the photocatalytic catalytic module so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. Under the action of the light source of the light source input device, the photocatalytic catalytic module generates ion clusters to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0019] When the second signal is received, the power supply of the light source input device is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component moves the photocatalyst catalytic module away from the light source input device, so that the light source of the light source input device can irradiate the storage space through the light source port to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the controller is configured such that when a third signal is received, the photocatalyst driving component drives the photocatalyst catalytic module to move, so that the photocatalyst catalytic module can generate ion clusters under the action of the light source input device to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0021] Meanwhile, part of the light source of the light source input device can illuminate the storage space through the light source port to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, a sliding space is provided on one side of the housing, and the sliding space is provided along the length direction of the housing;

[0023] The photocatalyst driving component further includes

[0024] The motor is housed within the casing;

[0025] The motor rod is located at the drive end of the motor and electrically drives the electrode rod to rotate.

[0026] The gear is connected to the motor rod and can rotate with the motor rod.

[0027] The rack is connected to the gear in a meshing connection, and the rack is also connected to the photocatalytic module.

[0028] The controller is configured to turn on the motor, which drives the gear to rotate, and the rack drives the photocatalytic module to move along the length of the housing, thereby switching the position of the photocatalytic module to change the relative position of the photocatalytic module and the light source input device.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the photocatalytic module includes:

[0030] The substrate plate is movably disposed within the housing and is connected to the rack;

[0031] The photocatalyst layer is wrapped around the outer surface of the substrate. Air in the storage space enters the housing through the air inlet, flows through the photocatalyst layer, and then flows back to the storage space through the air outlet.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, it also includes:

[0033] A built-in fan is located within the storage space and on one side of the sterilization and purification device to accelerate airflow within the storage space.

[0034] The controller is configured to turn on the built-in fan when the photocatalytic module generates ion clusters under the light source of the light source input device.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, the controller is configured to cut off the power supply to the light source input device when the door closing detection component detects that the cabinet is open during the generation of ion clusters by the photocatalytic module or during sterilization using a light source.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, the storage space may be configured as a refrigerator, drawer, or variable temperature compartment.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the light source input device can output ultraviolet light of 220nm-280nm and / or short-wavelength blue light of 400nm-420nm.

[0038] In some embodiments of this application, the housing is fixedly mounted on top of the storage space by snap-fit ​​or screws.

[0039] This application also proposes a refrigerator, comprising:

[0040] The box has at least one storage space inside;

[0041] The cabinet door is used to open or close the cabinet.

[0042] A door closure detection component, which is installed on the door or body of the cabinet, is used to detect the status of the storage space;

[0043] A sterilization and purification device, used to sterilize or purify the storage space it is in;

[0044] The controller is electrically connected to the door closing detection component and the sterilization and purification device.

[0045] The sterilization and purification device includes:

[0046] The housing is located within the storage space, and the interior of the housing forms a housing and an air inlet and an air outlet that communicate with the housing;

[0047] A sliding space is provided along the length of the housing.

[0048] A light source input device, which is located inside the housing, is used to output light sources of different wavelengths;

[0049] The light source port is an open opening positioned opposite the light source input device;

[0050] The photocatalytic module is actively disposed within the housing. The photocatalytic module can react and generate ion clusters under the action of a light source.

[0051] The operation unit, which is connected to the photocatalytic module, is used to control whether the photocatalytic module blocks the light source output device from illuminating the corresponding storage space.

[0052] The controller is configured to connect the power supply of the light source input device upon receiving a first signal or a second signal.

[0053] When the operating unit moves the photocatalytic module so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device, the photocatalytic module generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0054] When the operating unit moves the photocatalytic module away from the light source input device, the light source of the light source input device can illuminate the storage space through the light source port to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0055] In the above embodiments, the refrigerator includes a cabinet, a door for opening or closing the cabinet, a door closing detection component for detecting the open / closed state of the cabinet, a sterilization and purification device for sterilizing or purifying the cabinet, and a controller. The sterilization and purification device further includes: a housing with an air inlet and an air outlet, a light source input device, a light source outlet, a photocatalytic module, and a photocatalytic driving component. The photocatalytic driving component drives the photocatalytic module to move, thereby changing the relative position between the photocatalytic module and the light source input device. The controller is configured such that, when receiving a first signal, the power supply photocatalytic driving component connected to the light source input device drives the photocatalytic module to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. The photocatalytic module generates ion clusters under the action of the light source of the light source input device to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0056] Upon receiving the second signal, the power supply to the light source input device is activated, and the photocatalyst driving component moves the photocatalyst catalytic module away from the light source input device, allowing the light source from the light source input device to illuminate the storage space through the light source port.

[0057] Disinfect the storage space and / or food ingredients.

[0058] By driving the photocatalytic module with a photocatalytic drive component, the relative position between the photocatalytic module and the light source input device is changed, thereby adjusting the cleaning type of the sterilization and purification device. This allows for simultaneous sterilization and purification, providing comprehensive sterilization and purification functions for home appliances such as refrigerators. Attached Figure Description

[0059] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0061] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the refrigerator sterilization and purification device according to an exemplary embodiment, when the substrate plate is porous ceramic.

[0062] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sterilization and purification device for a refrigerator according to an exemplary embodiment, when the substrate board is made of cloth.

[0063] Figure 4 This is another structural schematic diagram of the refrigerator sterilization and purification device according to the exemplary embodiment, when the substrate board is made of cloth;

[0064] Figure 5 An exploded view of the refrigerator sterilization and purification device according to the exemplary embodiment, when the substrate board is made of cloth;

[0065] Figure 6 An exploded view of the substrate of the refrigerator sterilization and purification device according to the exemplary embodiment, when the substrate is porous ceramic.

[0066] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure in which the center of the photocatalytic module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment coincides with the vertical projection of the light source input device;

[0067] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photocatalytic module located away from the light source input device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0068] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another photocatalytic module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0069] Figure 10 This is another schematic diagram of a photocatalytic module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0070] Figure 11 Explosion of another photocatalytic module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 ;

[0071] Figure 12 Explosion of another photocatalytic module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 2 ;

[0072] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another photocatalytic catalysis module proposed according to an exemplary embodiment, in which the center of the photocatalytic catalysis module coincides with the vertical projection of the light source input device;

[0073] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another photocatalytic catalytic module according to an exemplary embodiment, located away from the light source input device.

[0074] Figure 15 This is a hardware configuration block diagram of a controller proposed according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0075] Figure 16 A hardware configuration block diagram of a refrigerator provided according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0076] Figure 17 The control logic for sterilization and deodorization of a refrigerator is proposed according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0077] Figure 18This is another control logic for sterilization and deodorization of a refrigerator according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0078] Figure 19 This is a control logic for intelligent odor removal in a refrigerator based on an odor detection device, as proposed in an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] Figure 20 This is another control logic for sterilization and deodorization of a refrigerator according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0080] In the above figures:

[0081] Bus 81; Memory 82; Processor 83; Communication interface 84; Controller 6;

[0082] Refrigeration compartment 1; Inner liner 12; Outer shell 11; Door 2; Door inner liner 22; Door outer shell 21;

[0083] Sterilization and purification device 3; housing 31; air inlet 32; air outlet 33; refrigerator drawer 5;

[0084] Photocatalytic module 34; Light source input device 35; Light source port 36;

[0085] Photocatalyst driving component 37; door closing detection component 9; air duct fan 10; built-in fan 7;

[0086] Motor 371; Motor rod 372; Gear 373; Rack 374; Odor detection device 4;

[0087] Sliding space 38; frame 341; substrate plate 342; operating part 344. Detailed Implementation

[0088] The present invention will now be described in detail through exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that, without further description, elements, structures, and features in one embodiment may be advantageously incorporated into other embodiments.

[0089] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this 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.

[0090] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0091] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0092] This application provides a refrigerator, as shown in the reference. Figure 1 The refrigerator includes a cabinet, and the interior of the cabinet forms at least one storage space, which includes at least a refrigerator compartment 11, a freezer compartment, and drawers. The drawers can be configured as refrigerator drawers 5, fresh food drawers, and variable temperature drawers, etc.

[0093] In some implementations, the storage space may also include vacuum chambers and variable temperature chambers to meet different user storage needs.

[0094] The refrigerator of this application also includes a door 2, which includes a door liner 22 and a door shell 21. The door 2 is used to open and close the storage space. The door 2 can be used to form a closed space in the refrigerator to facilitate the sterilization and deodorization of the inside of the refrigerator, prevent the introduction of new bacteria, and prevent the air outside the refrigerator from polluting the air inside the refrigerator.

[0095] The refrigerator body includes an inner liner 12 that defines a storage space, an outer shell 11 that is attached to the outside of the inner liner 12 to form the appearance of the refrigerator, and a heat insulation layer disposed between the inner liner 12 and the outer shell 11 to insulate the storage space.

[0096] A main air duct is formed between the inner liner 12 and the outer shell 11. The main air duct is connected to the storage space inside the box. A refrigeration system is installed in the main air duct. The cold air generated by the refrigeration system enters the box through the main air duct to cool the food inside the box.

[0097] A duct fan 10 is installed in the main air duct to accelerate the airflow speed of the entire main air duct and the box, speed up heat exchange, and further promote the sterilization and deodorization efficiency.

[0098] In this application, the refrigeration system for supplying cold air to the storage space includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The refrigerant circulates among the components of this refrigeration system to achieve a cooling effect. The main flow process of the refrigerant among the components is as follows: the refrigerant passes through the compressor and then enters the condenser; after passing through the condenser, it enters the expansion valve; after passing through the expansion valve, it enters the evaporator; and after passing through the evaporator, it flows back to the compressor.

[0099] Specifically, the compressor compresses the refrigerant gas at high temperature and pressure and then discharges the compressed refrigerant gas. The discharged refrigerant gas flows into the condenser. The condenser condenses the compressed refrigerant into a liquid phase, and heat is released to the surrounding environment through the condensation process. The expansion valve causes the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the condenser to expand into a low-pressure liquid refrigerant. The evaporator evaporates the refrigerant that has expanded in the expansion valve and returns the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas to the compressor. The evaporator achieves a cooling effect by utilizing the latent heat of refrigerant evaporation or heat exchange with the material to be cooled.

[0100] Reference Figure 1 The refrigerator in this application includes a sterilization and purification device 3 disposed inside the refrigerator drawer 5. Exemplarily, the sterilization and purification device 3 may be disposed at the top of the refrigerator drawer 5. It is understood that the sterilization and purification device 3 may also be placed at the bottom, back wall, or side wall of the refrigerator drawer 5.

[0101] It is known that the sterilization and purification device 3 can also be installed in the fresh food drawer or the variable temperature compartment to sterilize and deodorize the fresh food drawer or the variable temperature compartment.

[0102] It should be noted that the following explanation uses the sterilization and purification device 3 to sterilize and purify the refrigerator drawer 5 as an example. Of course, the sterilization and purification device 3 can be installed in other storage spaces of the refrigerator.

[0103] Reference Figure 2-6 The sterilization and purification device 3 further includes a housing 31 installed inside the refrigerator drawer 5 and a sterilization and purification device 3 disposed within the housing 31. The housing 31 forms the shape of the sterilization and purification device 3 and has an internal air duct inside it. An air inlet 32 ​​and an air outlet 33 are formed on both sides of the internal air duct. The internal air duct can be used for airflow and to provide installation space for internal components. The air inlet 32, the internal air duct, and the air outlet 33 are connected to facilitate the entry of air from inside the cabinet into the internal air duct to react with the ion clusters generated by the sterilization and purification device 3.

[0104] In some embodiments of this example, the sterilization and purification device 3 includes a light source input device 35 and a photocatalytic module 34, both housed within the housing 31. The light source input device 35 can output light sources of different wavelengths, and the photocatalytic module 34 can utilize the light source to generate ion clusters to remove bacteria and odors from the chamber.

[0105] For example, the light source input device 35 is configured as an LED lamp post, which can be equipped with LED beads of different colors and wavelengths to improve the efficiency of sterilization and ion generation.

[0106] In this embodiment, the light source input device 35 can output ultraviolet light of 220nm-280nm and / or short-wavelength blue light of 400nm-420nm. The light source input device 35 may include various LED chips.

[0107] The above structure can only remove odors by using photocatalysis and cannot solve the problem of sterilization. In this application, the above sterilization and purification device 3 is further modified.

[0108] In some embodiments, the positions of the light source input device 35 and the photocatalytic module 34 are arranged to be staggered along the length of the housing 31 so as to allow for sufficient space for the photocatalytic module 34 to move.

[0109] In some implementations, refer to Figure 2-4 The sterilization and purification module also includes a light source port 36, which is an open port opposite to the light source input device 35. The light source of the light source input device 35 can shine into the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space.

[0110] Of course, it is known that the light source of the light source input device 35 also shines on the storage space through the air inlet 32 ​​and the air outlet 33.

[0111] In some implementations of this embodiment, reference is made to Figure 2 The sterilization and purification device 3 also includes a photocatalyst driving component 37, which is connected to the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 and is used to drive the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move along the length of the housing 31 to adjust the function of the sterilization and purification device 3. Specifically, it controls whether the sterilization and purification module performs sterilization or purification.

[0112] The photocatalytic module 34 is movably installed on the side of the light source input device 35 near the light source port 36. The photocatalytic module 34 can be moved to block the light source port 36. The photocatalytic module 34 can also react and generate ion clusters under the action of the light source.

[0113] In this application, the refrigerator's mode selection or switching can be based on the user-output electrical signal, or it can be activated based on certain parameters. In some embodiments of this application, refer to... Figure 16 The refrigerator also includes an odor detection device 4, which is installed in the main air duct. The odor detection device 4 is used to detect the odor concentration inside the refrigerator, so as to serve as the basis for driving the photocatalytic module 34 to operate.

[0114] In some embodiments of this example, when the odor concentration detected by the odor detection device 4 reaches the first set range condition, it is determined that the odor concentration inside the box is high and needs to be removed. At this time, the light source input device 35 is turned on to make the photocatalytic module 34 generate ions. When the odor concentration detected by the odor detection device 4 reaches the end working condition, it is determined that the odor concentration inside the box is within the normal range and the power input terminal of the light source input device 35 is turned off.

[0115] In some embodiments, the photocatalytic module 34 utilizes photodischarge to couple the photocatalyst, thereby achieving low-temperature plasma discharge synergistic photocatalytic / metal oxide catalytic function and thus achieving a rapid and efficient odor removal effect.

[0116] In the technical solution of this application, the main function of the photocatalytic module 34 is to deodorize. It generates electrons and holes by exciting the photocatalyst with a light source. The electrons migrate from the valence band to the conduction band and react with O2. The reaction formula is as follows:

[0117]

[0118] The valence band hole reacts with H2O in the air, and the reaction equation is as follows:

[0119] h + +H₂O→.OH

[0120] . Both .OH and .OH have strong oxidizing properties. By drawing in air from the chamber through the built-in fan 734 or circulating the airflow within the chamber, odor molecules in the air are oxidized and decomposed at the photocatalytic module 34, resulting in a powerful and rapid odor removal effect.

[0121] Reference Figure 5-6 11-12, The photocatalytic module 34 includes a substrate plate 342 and a photocatalytic layer (not shown in the figure) wrapped around the outer surface of the substrate plate 342. The substrate plate 342 and the photocatalytic layer can be mounted on the frame 341 to facilitate the installation and removal of the photocatalytic module 34.

[0122] In some embodiments, the built-in fan 7 is disposed inside the housing 31, and the substrate plate 342 is disposed on the side of the built-in fan 7 near the air outlet 33. The substrate plate 342 has multiple through holes along the airflow direction or perpendicular to the airflow direction, which increases the airflow throughput and the surface area of ​​the photocatalyst layer, thereby improving the odor removal efficiency. The air inside the box flows out from the air outlet 33 of the built-in fan 7 under the action of the built-in fan 7, flows through the photocatalyst layer, and then flows back to the box through the air outlet 33.

[0123] The photocatalytic module 34 uses the light source output from the light source input device 35 to excite the photocatalytic layer to generate strong oxidizing molecules to decompose odor molecules inside the box.

[0124] In some implementations, refer to Figure 6 The substrate 342 is configured as a porous ceramic block, and a photocatalyst is coated or impregnated on the surface of the porous ceramic to achieve a low-temperature plasma discharge synergistic photocatalytic / metal oxide catalytic function. It should be noted that the photocatalyst here can be TiO2 doped with Cu or Mn oxides.

[0125] In some implementations, refer to Figure 5 The photocatalytic module 34 is configured as a cloth and its surface is coated with a photocatalyst. The photocatalyst semiconductor oxide composite coating contains one or more components selected from titanium oxide, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, and silicon oxide, and may also contain one or more active components selected from manganese oxide, copper oxide, cerium oxide, lanthanum oxide, zirconium oxide, silver oxide, cobalt oxide, nickel oxide, iron oxide, or precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

[0126] The photocatalyst driving component 37 includes a motor 371, a motor rod 372, a gear 373, and a rack 374. The motor 371 can be mounted on a motor 371 frame (not shown in the figure), the motor rod 372 is mounted on the driving end of the motor 371, the gear 373 is mounted on the end of the motor rod 372 away from the motor 371, the gear 373 and the rack 374 are meshed together, and the rack 374 is connected to the frame 341.

[0127] When the motor 371 starts, the electrode drives the gear 373 to rotate via the electrode rod. The gear 373 drives the photocatalytic module 34 to move relative to the housing 31 along the length direction via the frame 341, thereby changing the position of the photocatalytic module 34 and altering the relative positional relationship between the photocatalytic module 34 and the light source input device 35.

[0128] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 As shown, the motor 371 can be configured as a dual-axis motor 371, with two motor rods 372, two gears 373 and two racks 374. The motor 371 can drive the corresponding gears 373 to rotate via the motor rods 372. The gears 373 and racks 374 mesh, thereby driving the racks 374 and the photocatalytic module 34 to move left and right.

[0129] It is understood that the photocatalyst driving component 37 can also be configured as other components that can drive the photocatalyst catalysis module 34 to move. For example, a lead screw or other driving component.

[0130] Reference Figure 7The photocatalyst driving component 37 can move the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. Under the action of the light source of the light source input device 35, the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0131] Reference Figure 8 The photocatalyst driving component 37 can drive the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35, so that the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space and / or food.

[0132] In some embodiments of this example, the refrigerator also includes a built-in fan 7, which can be installed in the storage space and located on one side of the sterilization and purification device 3. The built-in fan 7 is used to accelerate the airflow in the storage space, accelerate the diffusion of ions and strong oxidizing active substances, improve the contact efficiency between air and ion clusters in the refrigerator, accelerate deodorization and sterilization, and improve deodorization efficiency.

[0133] Air inside the enclosure enters the housing 31 through the air inlet 32, flows through the sterilization and purification device 3 under the action of the built-in fan 7, and comes into contact with the ion clusters generated by it before flowing back into the enclosure through the air outlet 33. During the contact between the air and the ion clusters, the ions can adsorb and decompose odor molecules and bacteria in the air, and at the same time, the ions will flow into the enclosure with the airflow to remove bacteria inside the enclosure.

[0134] In some embodiments of this example, the built-in fan 7 may also be disposed inside the housing 31 to accelerate the diffusion of the generated ion clusters into the storage space, thereby improving the purification efficiency.

[0135] In some embodiments of this example, the built-in fan 7 is turned on when the photocatalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the light source of the light source input device 35.

[0136] Reference Figure 15 The refrigerator in this embodiment also includes a controller 6. The controller 6 acquires various operating parameters of the refrigerator through various control programs stored in the memory, and uses these parameters to control the operation of various parts of the refrigerator and respond to user operations. The controller 6 can control the working state of the sterilization and purification device 336 according to the detected state of the refrigerator, so as to realize the sterilization and deodorization function of the refrigerator.

[0137] The controller 6 controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. For example, in response to a sterilization and deodorization command issued by the user, the controller 6 can perform operations related to the object selected by the sterilization and deodorization command.

[0138] In some embodiments, controller 6 includes at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a video processor, an audio processor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), RAM (random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), a first to an nth interface for input / output, a communication bus, etc.

[0139] In the embodiments shown in this application, controller 6 refers to a device that can generate operation control signals according to instruction opcodes and timing signals to instruct the refrigerator to execute control commands.

[0140] This application embodiment also provides a hardware structure diagram of the controller 6, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the controller 6 includes a processor 83, and optionally, a memory 82 and a communication interface 84 connected to the processor 83. The processor 83, memory 82, and communication interface 84 are connected via a bus 81.

[0141] Processor 83 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor (NP), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor (MCU), a microcontroller (MCU), a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. Processor 83 can also be any other device with processing capabilities, such as a circuit, device, or software module. Processor 83 can also include multiple CPUs, and processor 83 can be a single-core (single-CPU) processor or a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor. Here, processor 83 can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used for processing data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0142] The memory 82 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), a magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The memory 82 can exist independently or be integrated with the processor 83. The memory 82 may contain computer program code. The processor 83 is used to execute the computer program code stored in the memory 82, thereby implementing the control method of the multi-unit refrigerator 100 system provided in this application embodiment.

[0143] The communication interface 84 can be used to communicate with other devices or communication networks (such as Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area networks (WLAN), etc.). The communication interface 84 can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of communication.

[0144] Bus 81 can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus 81 or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus 81, etc. Bus 81 can be divided into address bus 81, data bus 81, control bus 81, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 11 The bus is represented by only one thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus 81 or one type of bus 81.

[0145] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is mounted on the door of the enclosure. Of course, for layout purposes, the controller 6 can also be mounted on the enclosure itself.

[0146] In some implementations of this embodiment, reference is made to Figure 1The refrigerator also includes a door closing detection component 9, which is installed on the door or the refrigerator body. The door closing detection component 9 is used to detect the status of the door and send an open or closed signal to the controller 6. For example, the door closing detection component 9 is set as a door closing detection sensor to detect whether the refrigerator body is in a closed state, and can determine whether airborne bacteria need to be removed.

[0147] In some implementations of this embodiment, reference is made to Figure 1 The refrigerator includes an odor detection device 4 for detecting the odor concentration inside the refrigerator and sending the odor concentration signal to the controller 6. For example, the odor detection device 4 is configured as an odor detection sensor, which detects the odor concentration inside the refrigerator and sends the odor concentration signal to the controller 6 so that the controller 6 can control the corresponding odor-removing component to remove the odor.

[0148] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is configured to determine that the odor concentration inside the box is high and needs to be removed when the odor detection device 4 detects an odor concentration that reaches a first preset range condition, and at this time the photocatalytic module 34 is turned on; when the odor detection device 4 detects an odor concentration that reaches a second preset concentration condition, it is determined that the odor concentration inside the box is within the normal range, and the photocatalytic module 34 is turned off.

[0149] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is configured to connect the power supply of the light source input device 35 when receiving the first signal, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. The photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source of the light source input device 35 to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0150] When the second signal is received, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35, so that the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0151] In some embodiments, a circuit is provided between the light source input device 35 and the power supply to control whether the light source input device 35 is powered.

[0152] Reference Figure 17 This application explains the control logic for sterilization and deodorization of the refrigerator.

[0153] Determine whether the first signal is received (step S1701);

[0154] In step S1701, if the first signal is received, then step S1702 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state;

[0155] In step S1702, if the enclosure is in a closed state, then step S1704 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device; at this time, the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to achieve purification of the storage space.

[0156] In step S1702, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S1705 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0157] In step S1701, if the first signal is not received, then step S1703 is executed to determine whether the second signal is received;

[0158] In step S1703, if a second signal is received, then step S1706 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state.

[0159] In step S1706, if the cabinet is in a closed state, then step S1708 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35; at this time, the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36, which can sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0160] In step S1706, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S1709 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0161] If the second signal is not received in step S1703, then step S1707 is executed and no action is taken.

[0162] In some embodiments of this example, the sterilization and deodorization device 3 can be installed in a compartment of the refrigerator compartment 1, such as a fresh food drawer. The sterilization mode sterilizes the drawer and the surface of the food. A built-in fan 7 can be installed at the air inlet 32 ​​or air outlet 33 on one side of the sterilization and deodorization device 3 to enhance the purification effect by strengthening air circulation when performing the purification function.

[0163] The sterilization and deodorization device 3 can also be installed in the main refrigerator compartment. The sterilization mode sterilizes the refrigerator compartment 1 and the surface of the food. The purification effect is enhanced by increasing the air circulation in the refrigerator compartment 1 caused by the operation of the air duct fan 10 when the refrigerator is refrigerating. To further improve the purification effect, a fan can be installed independently on one side of the air vent of the sterilization and deodorization device 3.

[0164] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is further configured such that when a third signal is received, the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move, so that the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 can generate ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0165] Meanwhile, part of the light source from the light source input device 35 can illuminate the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0166] Reference Figure 18 This explains another control logic for refrigerator sterilization and deodorization in this application.

[0167] Determine whether the first signal has been received (step S1801);

[0168] In step S1801, if the first signal is received, then step S1802 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state;

[0169] In step S1802, if the enclosure is in a closed state, then step S1804 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device; at this time, the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to achieve purification of the storage space.

[0170] In step S1802, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S1805 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0171] In step S1801, if the first signal is not received, then step S1803 is executed to determine whether the second signal is received;

[0172] In step S1803, if a second signal is received, then step S1806 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state;

[0173] In step S1806, if the cabinet is in a closed state, then step S1808 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35; at this time, the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36, which can sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0174] In step S1806, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S1809 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0175] In step S1803, if the second signal is not received, then step S1807 is executed to determine whether the third signal is received;

[0176] In step S1807, if a third signal is received, then step S1812 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state.

[0177] In step S1812, if the enclosure is in a closed state, then step S1810 is executed, the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move, and part of the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36.

[0178] In step S1812, if the enclosure is in the closed state, then step S1813 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0179] If no third signal is received in step S1807, then step S1811 is executed and no action is taken.

[0180] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is configured to cut off the power supply to the light source input device 35 when the door closing detection component 9 detects that the cabinet is open during the generation of ion clusters by the photocatalytic catalysis module 34 or during sterilization using the light source. This prevents the light source in the sterilization band from escaping and causing safety hazards to the user.

[0181] Reference Figure 16 The controller 6 is electrically connected to the door closing detection component 9, the odor detection device 4, the light source input device 35, the motor 371, the built-in fan 7, and the duct fan 10. It receives the detected odor concentration and the door opening and closing signals to control the operation of the light source input device 35, the motor 371, the built-in fan 7, and the duct fan 10.

[0182] In some embodiments of this example, when the refrigerator is in deodorizing mode, the working state of the photocatalytic module 34 can be controlled according to the odor concentration inside the refrigerator.

[0183] During the operation of the photocatalytic module 34, the airflow inside the chamber, driven by the built-in fan 7, passes over the surface of the photocatalytic module 34 to remove odor molecules from the airflow. In this process, the airflow passes through through-holes in the substrate plate 342, which increases the contact area between the airflow and the photocatalyst layer.

[0184] Reference Figure 19 This indicates that the refrigerator uses intelligent odor removal control logic based on the odor detection device 4 installed in the refrigerator.

[0185] Determine whether the odor detection device detects whether the odor concentration has reached the preset range (step S1901);

[0186] In step S1901, if the odor detection device detects that the odor concentration has reached a preset range, then step S1902 is executed to determine whether the box is in a closed state.

[0187] In step S1902, if the enclosure is in a closed state, then step S1904 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device; at this time, the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source of the light source input device 35, so as to purify the storage space.

[0188] In step S1902, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S1905 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0189] In step S1901, if the odor detection device detects that the odor concentration does not reach the preset range, then step S1903 is executed, connecting the power supply of the light source input device 35, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35; at this time, the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36, which can sterilize the storage space and / or food, or step S1906 is executed, and no action is taken.

[0190] In the above steps, the working mode can also be controlled according to the odor concentration. It can be seen that by dividing the odor concentration, the different working states of the built-in fan 7, the duct fan 10 and the sterilization and purification device 3 can be controlled step by step. The different working states include the on and off status and speed of the built-in fan 7 and the duct fan 10, and the parameter settings of the sterilization and purification device 3 that affect the amount of ions generated.

[0191] The above control methods can achieve linkage between the odor sensor and the odor-eliminating component, enabling intelligent on-demand odor elimination with fast and efficient odor elimination, while also taking into account user perception, user interaction, and energy saving.

[0192] In some embodiments of this example, the housing 31 is fixedly mounted on top of the storage space by snap-fit ​​or screws.

[0193] In the above embodiments, the refrigerator includes a cabinet, a door for opening or closing the cabinet, a door closing detection component 9 for detecting the open / closed state of the cabinet, a sterilization and purification device 3 for sterilizing or purifying the cabinet, and a controller 6.

[0194] The sterilization and purification device 3 further includes: a housing 31 having an air inlet 32 ​​and an air outlet 33, a light source input device 35, a light source port 36, a photocatalytic module 34, and a photocatalytic driving component 37.

[0195] The photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalysis module 34 to move, thereby changing the relative position between the photocatalyst catalysis module 34 and the light source input device 35.

[0196] The controller 6 is configured such that, when it receives the first signal, the power photocatalyst driving component 37 connected to the light source input device 35 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. The photocatalyst catalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0197] When the second signal is received, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component 37 drives the photocatalyst catalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35, so that the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0198] The photocatalytic module 34 is moved by the photocatalytic driving component 37 to change the relative position between the photocatalytic module 34 and the light source input device 35, thereby adjusting the cleaning type of the sterilization and purification device 3. It can simultaneously carry out sterilization and purification, and provide comprehensive sterilization and purification functions for home appliances such as refrigerators.

[0199] In some embodiments of this example, in order to better coordinate with the movement of the photocatalytic module 34, refer to Figure 9-12 A sliding space 38 is provided within the operating stroke range of the photocatalytic module 34, and the sliding space 38 is provided along the length direction of the housing 31.

[0200] For example, the sliding space 38 can be configured as an elongated through hole, and the specific shape of the elongated through hole can be set according to the connection position of the frame 341 and the photocatalyst driving component 37 located in the sliding space 38.

[0201] It is known that frame 341 may need to be made of insulating material.

[0202] In some embodiments of this application, compared to other embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 10 The sterilization and deodorization device also includes a frame 341, which can move the photocatalytic module 34 on it to change the positional relationship between the photocatalytic module 34 and the light source input device 35 to achieve functional adjustment.

[0203] In some embodiments of this example, the sliding space 38 is configured as a through hole penetrating the inside and outside of the housing 31, and the sliding space 38 is configured as including an elongated through hole arranged from left to right.

[0204] Since the hole is designed to be horizontal, the vertical position fixation issue does not need to be considered in this application. When the sliding space 38 is a top-to-bottom through hole, a certain structure is required to fix the position of the component.

[0205] In some embodiments of this example, the controller 6 is configured to connect the power supply of the light source input device 35 after receiving the first signal or the second signal;

[0206] Reference Figure 14 When the operating unit 344 moves the photocatalytic module 34 so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device, the photocatalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to purify the corresponding storage space.

[0207] Reference Figure 13 When the operating unit 344 moves the photocatalytic module 34 away from the light source input device 35, the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36 to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0208] Reference Figure 20 This describes the sterilization control logic of the refrigerator in the embodiments of this application.

[0209] Determine whether the first signal is received (step S2001);

[0210] In step S2001, if the first signal is received, then step S2002 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state;

[0211] In step S2002, if the enclosure is in a closed state, step S2004 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalytic module 34 is moved by the operation unit 344 so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device; at this time, the photocatalytic module 34 generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device 35 to purify the storage space.

[0212] In step S2002, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S2005 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0213] In step S2001, if the first signal is not received, then step S2003 is executed to determine whether the second signal is received;

[0214] In step S2003, if a second signal is received, then step S2006 is executed to determine whether the enclosure is in a closed state;

[0215] In step S2006, if the cabinet is in a closed state, then step S2008 is executed, the power supply of the light source input device 35 is connected, and the photocatalytic module 34 is moved away from the light source input device 35 through the operation unit 344; at this time, the light source of the light source input device 35 can irradiate the storage space through the light source port 36, which can sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

[0216] In step S2006, if the enclosure is not in the closed state, then step S2009 is executed, either triggering an alarm or not taking any action;

[0217] If the second signal is not received in step S2003, then step S2007 is executed and no action is taken.

[0218] In the above steps, the position of the photocatalytic module 34 is changed by the manual fluctuation operation unit 344. When the photocatalytic module 34 is moved to the side away from the light source input device 35, ultraviolet light or low-wave blue light is mainly used for sterilization. When the photocatalytic module 34 is moved to the point where its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source input device 35, the photocatalytic module 34 mainly generates ion clusters for purification.

[0219] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The box has at least one storage space inside; A door, used to open or close the enclosure; A door closure detection component, which is disposed on the door or the body of the container, is used to detect the state of the storage space; A sterilization and purification device, used to sterilize or purify the storage space it is in; The controller is electrically connected to the door closing detection component and the sterilization and purification device; The sterilization and purification device includes: A housing disposed within the storage space, the housing including an air inlet and an air outlet disposed along its length; A light source input device, which is disposed inside the housing, is used to output light sources of different wavelengths; The light source port is an open opening positioned opposite the light source input device; A photocatalytic module is movably disposed within the housing. The photocatalytic module is located on the side of the light source input device near the light source opening. The photocatalytic module can be moved to block the light source opening. Under the action of the light source, the photocatalytic module can react to generate ion clusters. The photocatalytic module has multiple through holes along or perpendicular to the airflow direction. The positions of the light source input device and the photocatalytic module are staggered along the length of the housing. A photocatalytic driving component, connected to the photocatalytic module, is used to drive the photocatalytic module to move along the length of the housing to adjust the function of the sterilization and purification device; an odor detection device is used to detect the odor concentration inside the box and send the odor concentration signal to the controller. The controller is configured to determine whether the enclosure is closed when it receives the first signal. If the enclosure is closed, the power supply of the light source input device is connected to the photocatalytic driving component, which drives the photocatalytic catalytic module to move so that its center coincides with the vertical projection of the light source output device. The photocatalytic catalytic module generates ion clusters under the action of the light source input device to purify the corresponding storage space. When the second signal is received, it is determined whether the cabinet is in a closed state. If the cabinet is in a closed state, the power supply of the light source input device is connected, and the photocatalyst driving component drives the photocatalyst catalytic module away from the light source input device, so that the light source of the light source input device can irradiate the storage space through the light source port to sterilize the storage space and / or the food. When a third signal is received, it is determined whether the enclosure is in a closed state. If the enclosure is in a closed state, the photocatalyst driving component drives the photocatalyst catalytic module to move, so that the photocatalyst catalytic module can generate ion clusters under the light source of the light source input device to purify the corresponding storage space. Meanwhile, a portion of the light source from the light source input device can illuminate the storage space through the light source port to sterilize the storage space and / or the food.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The photocatalyst driving component further includes An electric motor is disposed within the housing; A motor rod is located at the drive end of the motor, and the motor drives the motor rod to rotate; A gear, which is connected to the motor rod, and the gear can rotate with the motor rod; A rack, which meshes with the gear, and is also connected to the photocatalytic module; The controller is configured to control the motor to turn on, the motor to drive the gear to rotate, and the rack to drive the photocatalytic module to move along the length of the housing, thereby switching the position of the photocatalytic module to change the relative position of the photocatalytic module and the light source input device.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The photocatalytic module includes: A substrate plate, which is movably disposed within the housing and connected to the rack; A photocatalytic layer is wrapped around the outer surface of the substrate. Air in the storage space enters the housing through the air inlet, flows through the photocatalytic layer, and then flows back to the storage space through the air outlet.

4. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Also includes: A built-in fan is located within the storage space and on one side of the sterilization and purification device to accelerate airflow within the storage space. The controller is configured to turn on the built-in fan when the photocatalytic module generates ion clusters under the light source of the light source input device.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is configured to cut off the power supply to the light source input device when the door closing detection component detects that the cabinet is open during the generation of ion clusters by the photocatalytic module or during sterilization using a light source.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The storage space can be configured as a refrigerator, drawer, or variable temperature compartment.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light source input device can output ultraviolet light of 220nm-280nm and / or short-wavelength blue light of 400nm-420nm.

8. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The housing is fixedly installed on top of the storage space by snap-fit ​​or screws.

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