Refrigerator and noise reduction method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a refrigerator and a noise reduction method thereof. The refrigerator comprises a sensor, an auxiliary sound source and a controller. The sensor is configured to detect the noise value of the refrigerator in the operation process. The auxiliary sound source is configured to emit a masking sound according to a masking characteristic of a sound band. The controller is configured to obtain a first noise value detected by the sensor in the running process of the refrigerator; if the first noise value is greater than a preset decibel threshold value, searching a target frequency band from the frequency bands of the current noise, and calculating the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; according to the noise amplitude, determining a masking sound which is opposite to the target frequency band in phase; and controlling the auxiliary sound source to emit the masking sound.

Description

Refrigerator and noise reduction method thereof

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310334308.9, filed on March 31, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of household appliances, and in particular to a refrigerator and a noise reduction method thereof. Background Art

[0003] As people's quality of life improves, their expectations for refrigerators are also rising. Some refrigerators are not only becoming more and more versatile, with features like vacuum drawers, automatic shelves, and automatic door openings, but also feature improved noise reduction to meet user demands for quieter refrigerators.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] On the one hand, a refrigerator is provided, comprising a cabinet, a door, a sensor, an auxiliary sound source, and a controller. The cabinet has a storage chamber, and the storage chamber includes a refrigerator and a freezer. The door is connected to the cabinet to open or close the storage chamber. The sensor is disposed in the cabinet and is configured to detect the noise level of the refrigerator during operation. The auxiliary sound source is disposed in the cabinet and is configured to emit a masking sound. The controller is configured to: during the operation of the refrigerator, obtain a first noise value detected by the sensor; if the first noise value is greater than a preset decibel threshold, search for a target frequency band from the frequency band of the current noise and calculate the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; determine a masking sound with an antiphase to the target frequency band based on the noise amplitude; and control the auxiliary sound source to emit the masking sound to reduce noise.

[0006] In another aspect, a refrigerator noise reduction method is provided, which is applied to a refrigerator equipped with an auxiliary sound source configured to emit a masking sound. The refrigerator also includes a sensor configured to detect the noise level of the refrigerator during operation. The method comprises: obtaining a first noise level detected by the sensor during operation of the refrigerator; if it is determined that the first noise level is greater than a preset decibel threshold, searching for a target frequency band within the current noise frequency band and calculating the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; based on the noise amplitude, determining a masking sound with an antiphase to the target frequency band; and controlling the auxiliary sound source to emit the masking sound. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG1 is a structural diagram of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0008] FIG2 is a structural diagram of a refrigeration system of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0009] FIG3 is a diagram illustrating noise changes of a refrigerator in a cooling mode and a defrosting mode according to some embodiments;

[0010] FIG4A is a block diagram of a control system of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0011] FIG4B is a system framework diagram of a refrigerator noise reduction process according to some embodiments;

[0012] FIG5 is a flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0013] FIG6 is another flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0014] FIG7 is another flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0015] FIG8 is another flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0016] FIG9 is another flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0017] FIG10 is a diagram illustrating information interaction between a refrigerator and a client according to some embodiments;

[0018] FIG11 is a flow chart of a noise reduction method for a refrigerator according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings to clearly and completely describe some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, rather than all embodiments. Based on the embodiments provided by the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0020] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprise" and its other forms, such as the third person singular form "comprises" and the present participle form "comprising", are to be interpreted as open and inclusive, that is, "including, but not limited to". In the description of the specification, the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "exemplary embodiments", "example", "specific example" or "some examples" are intended to indicate that the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics associated with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. In addition, the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics may be included in any one or more embodiments or examples in any appropriate manner.

[0021] In the following, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0022] When describing some embodiments, the expressions "coupled" and "connected" and their derivatives may be used. The term "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. The term "coupled" indicates that two or more components are in direct physical or electrical contact. The term "coupled" or "communicatively coupled" may also refer to two or more components that are not in direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the contents of this document.

[0023] “At least one of A, B and C” has the same meaning as “at least one of A, B or C” and both include the following combinations of A, B and C: A only, B only, C only, the combination of A and B, the combination of A and C, the combination of B and C, and the combination of A, B and C.

[0024] “A and / or B” includes the following three combinations: A only, B only, and a combination of A and B.

[0025] The use of "adapted to" or "configured to" herein is intended to be open and inclusive language that does not exclude devices adapted or configured to perform additional tasks or steps.

[0026] As used herein, "about," "substantially," or "approximately" includes the stated value and an average value that is within an acceptable range of deviation from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurements in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system).

[0027] As used herein, "parallel", "perpendicular", and "equal" include the situations described and situations similar to the situations described, and the range of the similar situations is within an acceptable deviation range, wherein the acceptable deviation range is as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the specific quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "parallel" includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate parallelism can be, for example, a deviation within 5°; "perpendicular" includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate perpendicularity can also be, for example, a deviation within 5°. "Equal" includes absolute equality and approximate equality, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate equality can be, for example, that the difference between the two equals is less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0028] 1 , a refrigerator 100 includes a housing 10 defining a storage space and a door 20. The door 20 is disposed at an opening of the housing 10 to open or close the housing 10. The door 20 includes a door shell and an insulation layer disposed within the door shell. The insulation layer may be formed by filling with a foam material.

[0029] In some embodiments, the housing 10 and the door 20 define a storage cavity and at least one storage compartment. The storage cavity is configured to house components such as the compressor of the refrigerator 100. The storage compartment is configured to store food, medicine, etc. Depending on their purpose, the storage compartment can be divided into a refrigeration compartment, a freezer compartment, a vacuum chamber, a temperature-changing chamber, etc.

[0030] In some embodiments, each storage chamber has one or more doors 20 corresponding to its opening. For example, the refrigerator 100 includes a refrigerator, a freezer, and a vacuum chamber. The storage chamber at the top of the refrigerator 100 is a refrigerator, and two doors 20 are provided in the refrigerator. The two doors 20 are respectively connected to the housing 10 and rotate open with the side connected to the housing 10 as a pivot axis. The storage chamber at the bottom of the refrigerator 100 is a freezer, and one door 20 is provided in the freezer. The door 20 can be connected to the drawer box of the freezer, and the user can open and close the door 20 by pushing and pulling to store and access food.

[0031] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes a door seal installed at the opening of the storage chamber. The door seal is configured to seal the gap between the door 20 and the housing 10. The refrigerator 100 further includes a vacuum pump 140, which is in communication with the vacuum chamber. The vacuum pump 140 is configured to evacuate the vacuum chamber to reduce the oxygen content therein and maintain a relative vacuum state.

[0032] <First power-on phase and cooling phase>

[0033] 2 , refrigerator 100 further includes a refrigeration system configured to cool the storage compartment within refrigerator body 10. The refrigeration system includes a compressor 1, a condenser 2, and an evaporator 6. The outlet of compressor 1 is connected to the inlet of condenser 2, and the inlet of compressor 1 is connected to the outlet of evaporator 6. Compressor 1 is configured to compress refrigerant and provide power for the refrigerant circulation.

[0034] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a filter 4, a pressure reducer 5, and a gas-liquid separator 7. The inlet of the filter 4 is connected to the outlet of the condenser 2, and the outlet of the filter 4 is connected to the inlet of the evaporator 6. The pressure reducer 5 is provided on the pipeline between the outlet of the filter 4 and the inlet of the evaporator 6. The filter 4 is configured to filter impurities in the refrigerant, such as metal shavings, dust, etc., to prevent the impurities from clogging the pressure reducer 5 or damaging the compressor 1. The filter 4 can be a drying filter. The gas-liquid separator 7 is provided on the pipeline between the inlet of the compressor 1 and the outlet of the evaporator 6.

[0035] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes an anti-condensation pipe 3, which is located at the opening of the storage compartment and communicates with the condenser 2 on both sides of the cabinet 10. The anti-condensation pipe 3 is configured to increase the temperature at the opening to prevent water vapor outside the cabinet 10 from condensing into water droplets when it encounters cold at the opening. A liquid reservoir is also provided between the evaporator 6 and the compressor 1 to store liquid refrigerant.

[0036] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system operates through a compression process, a condensation process, a throttling process, and an evaporation process. First, connect the power cord to the refrigerator 100 to power it on. If the temperature in the storage compartment of the refrigerator 100 is outside a preset temperature range, the thermostat contacts connect, and the compressor 1 begins operating.

[0037] The compression process is as follows: low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is sucked into the compressor 1 , and is compressed into high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas in the cylinder of the compressor 1 , and then discharged into the condenser 2 .

[0038] The condensation process involves high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipating heat through condenser 2, cooling it to a saturated vapor at room temperature and high pressure. It then cools further to a saturated liquid, where it stops cooling. This temperature is called the condensation temperature. The refrigerant pressure remains virtually unchanged throughout the condensation process.

[0039] The throttling process is as follows: the condensed refrigerant saturated liquid is filtered out of water and impurities by the filter 4, and then flows into the pressure reducer 5, and is throttled and depressurized by the pressure reducer 5 to become wet steam at room temperature and low pressure.

[0040] The evaporation process is as follows: the wet steam at room temperature and low pressure begins to absorb heat and vaporize in the evaporator 6, which not only reduces the temperature of the evaporator 6 and the gas around the evaporator 6, but also turns the refrigerant into a low-temperature and low-pressure gas.

[0041] The refrigerant coming out of the evaporator 6 passes through the gas-liquid separator 7 and then returns to the compressor 1. By repeating the above process, the heat in the refrigerator 100 can be transferred to the air outside the box, thereby achieving the purpose of cooling.

[0042] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes a fan 130. The fan 130 is disposed in the housing 10 and is configured to allow air to enter the evaporator 6, exchange heat with the evaporator 6, and deliver the heat-exchanged air into the storage compartment.

[0043] Currently, some multifunctional refrigerators integrate vacuum drawers and automatic door opening and closing functions, bringing convenience to users. However, as refrigerator functions increase, the number of motors required to drive different components also increases accordingly. The noise generated by the operation of multiple motors, combined with the noise from the vacuum pump 140, compressor 1, and fan 130, further increases the noise level of the refrigerator.

[0044] Generally, noise reduction technology involves two approaches. One approach involves installing sound-absorbing and insulating structures or adding sound-absorbing and insulating materials to the refrigerator. However, this approach increases manufacturing costs and reduces the refrigerator's practicality. Another approach involves reducing the rotational speed of key noise-generating components, such as the compressor 1 and fan 130. However, this approach can affect the refrigerator's cooling performance and make it difficult to meet user requirements.

[0045] To address the above issues, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a refrigerator 100, which further includes a sensor 110 and an auxiliary sound source 120. The sensor 110 is configured to detect the noise level of the refrigerator 100 during operation, and the auxiliary sound source 120 is configured to emit a masking sound to reduce the noise when the noise level exceeds a preset noise level.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the auxiliary sound source 120 utilizes the "masking effect" to reduce noise. Masking refers to the phenomenon whereby a sound of one frequency blocks the auditory system's perception of a sound of another frequency. The former is called a masking tone, while the latter is called a masked tone. Specifically, the human ear is only sensitive to the most noticeable sounds, and is less sensitive to less noticeable sounds.

[0047] For example, when people listen to a sound in a quiet environment, they can hear it even if the sound pressure level (measured in dB and related to frequency) is very low. However, if another sound (the masking sound) is present while listening to a sound, it will affect the human ear's ability to hear the sound. In this case, the human ear's hearing threshold (the lowest audible sound pressure level) will also increase, and noise with a sound pressure level lower than the masking sound will be masked, thereby achieving the effect of reducing noise.

[0048] Thus, auxiliary sound source 120 releases masking sounds (such as "white noise" or "pink noise") into the environment to mask unwanted noise. Relying on the auditory masking effect, masking sounds reduce or eliminate the human ear's perception of noise, improving concentration and work efficiency.

[0049] White noise refers to noise whose power spectral density is uniformly distributed across the entire frequency domain. Random noise with the same energy density at all frequencies is called white noise. Pink noise has the same or similar energy within a certain range (octave).

[0050] It is understandable that as the sound pressure level of the masking sound increases, the frequency range of the noise that the masking sound can mask also increases. However, because excessively high masking sound can also cause user discomfort, the sound pressure level of the masking sound should be within a predetermined range, such as a fixed value (such as the preset loudness threshold used in some embodiments of the present disclosure).

[0051] <Defrosting stage>

[0052] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes a freezer liner. The evaporator 6 is fixed to the freezer liner. Refrigeration of the refrigerator 100 causes frost to form on the fins of the evaporator 6. When the defrost time of the refrigerator 100 is reached, the refrigerator 100 starts to defrost the evaporator 6.

[0053] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes a heating wire and a water collection tray. The heating wire is provided on the evaporator 6, and the water collection tray is configured to receive melted defrost water. The defrosting principle of the refrigerator 100 is as follows: the refrigerator 100 heats the evaporator 6 via the heating wire, melting the frost on the evaporator 6. The melted defrost water drips into the water collection tray below. Under the influence of gravity, the defrost water flows through a drain pipe into the evaporating dish. The evaporating dish is connected to the exterior of the housing 10, and the piping in the evaporating dish heats the defrost water to accelerate its evaporation.

[0054] <Defrosting recovery phase>

[0055] During the defrosting process, the heat of the heating wire is transferred to the storage compartment, thereby increasing the temperature of the storage compartment. Therefore, after the defrosting process is completed, the refrigerator 100 enters the defrosting recovery phase.

[0056] During the defrost recovery stage, the compressor 1 and the fan 130 usually run at the maximum speed. After the defrost is completed, the temperature in the storage room needs to be lowered as soon as possible to reduce the impact on the fresh-keeping performance of the refrigerator 100. In this case, the compressor 1 and the fan 130 will also generate a lot of noise. If the vacuum pump 140 also starts running at this time, the noise of the refrigerator 100 will be even louder at this time. Therefore, some embodiments of the present disclosure also adjust the speed of the vacuum pump 140, the compressor 1 and the fan 130 respectively during the refrigeration stage and the defrost recovery stage of the refrigerator 100 to reduce the noise at the root.

[0057] 3 , the noise of the refrigerator 100 during the defrost recovery phase is significantly greater than that during the stable refrigeration phase and the defrost phase. The refrigerator 100 of some embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce the noise of the refrigerator 100 during the defrost recovery phase and the noise of the refrigerator during normal refrigeration by controlling the auxiliary sound source 120 to start when high noise (exceeding a preset threshold) is detected. Furthermore, in the process of using the auxiliary sound source 120 to reduce noise, the speed of the vacuum pump 140, the compressor 1, and the fan 130 are also controlled in combination with the operating status of the refrigerator 100, thereby achieving a double noise reduction effect.

[0058] 4A , the refrigerator 100 further includes a controller 500 , which includes a processor and a memory. The processor 601 , for example, a central processing unit (CPU), can be configured to execute program instructions stored in the memory to implement corresponding operations of the controller.

[0059] In some embodiments, the controller 500 is coupled to the sensor 110, the auxiliary sound source 120, the compressor 1, the fan 130, and the vacuum pump 140. The controller 500 is configured to: during operation of the refrigerator 100, obtain a first noise value detected by the sensor 110; if it is determined that the first noise value is greater than a preset decibel threshold, search for a target frequency band within the frequency band of the current noise and calculate the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; determine a masking sound with an antiphase to the target frequency band based on the noise amplitude; and control the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit the masking sound.

[0060] When the operation of the refrigerator 100 is detected, regardless of whether the refrigerator 100 is in the initial power-on stage, the defrost stage, the defrost recovery stage, or the refrigeration stage, the sensor 110 is activated and detects a first noise level in the environment of the refrigerator 100. If the first noise level is greater than the preset decibel threshold, it indicates that the noise caused by the operation of the refrigerator 100 is too loud and causes discomfort to the human ear, and therefore noise reduction is required.

[0061] It is understandable that the preset decibel threshold can be set by the user or pre-set before the refrigerator 100 leaves the factory.

[0062] 1 , the refrigerator 100 further includes a display screen, which is configured to display a control interface and food information, etc. In the case where the preset decibel threshold is set by the user, the refrigerator 100 may display a decibel value adjustment interface on the display screen when it is powered on for the first time. For example, a slidable volume adjustment button is provided in the interface. When the user slides the button, the controller 500 receives the user's noise adjustment instruction and controls the voice playback device in the refrigerator 100 to play fitting noise, allowing the user to select the preset decibel threshold. The fitting noise may be the pre-recorded operating noise of the compressor 1, fan 130, vacuum pump 140, etc.

[0063] It should be noted that the preset decibel threshold can be set to a different value based on the specifications and technical parameters of the refrigerator. For example, the preset decibel threshold is set between 20dB and 28dB. If it is determined that the first noise value is greater than the preset decibel threshold, the controller 500 locates the target frequency band for the current noise and calculates the noise amplitude in the target frequency band. Based on the noise amplitude, a masking sound with an antiphase to the target frequency band is then determined. The auxiliary sound source 120 is then activated and controlled to emit the masking sound.

[0064] It should be noted that the amplitude of the masking sound must be greater than or equal to the amplitude of the noise in the target frequency band to offset the uncomfortable noise. The masking sound can have the same amplitude as the original noise but opposite phase. This way, the two sound waves superimpose on each other, canceling out the vibrations of the original noise, thereby eliminating and reducing the noise.

[0065] 4B , the controller 500 can use a reference microphone to sample ambient noise, and after data processing, emit a sound wave with a phase opposite to the noise to cancel out the noise. After receiving the noise radiation, the controller 500 outputs a first signal (i.e., the original noise signal) through transmission path 1. In addition, a second signal (i.e., a noise reduction signal with an opposite phase) is output through an adaptive filtering algorithm in transmission path 3. At this time, the first signal and the second signal are superimposed. The controller 500 also obtains a superimposed error signal through the error microphone, and then adaptively updates the new signal through the least mean square algorithm (LMS) based on the error signal and the signal received by the reference microphone in transmission path 2, and inputs it into transmission path 3 again. The entire process is continuously iterated. During this process, the LMS continuously updates the filter coefficients to minimize the error between the first signal and the second signal, so as to offset the first signal and the second signal to the greatest extent, thereby improving the noise reduction effect.

[0066] It can be understood that the auxiliary sound source 120 emits the masking sound according to the second signal in the transmission path 3 .

[0067] In some embodiments, the controller 500 is further configured to: after controlling the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit a masking sound, continue to obtain a second noise value detected by the sensor 110; if the second noise value is less than a preset loudness threshold, control the current power of the auxiliary sound source 120 to remain unchanged; if the second noise value is greater than or equal to the preset loudness threshold, adjust the power of the auxiliary sound source 120 until the second noise value is less than the preset loudness threshold, and then control the current power of the auxiliary sound source 120 to remain unchanged.

[0068] It should be noted that the noise value of the refrigerator 100 during operation includes the first noise value and the second noise value.

[0069] After controlling the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit the masking sound, the controller 500 continues to obtain the second noise value detected by the sensor 110. Because the second noise value is the original noise with the masking sound superimposed on it, another threshold is required for comparison with the second noise value. For example, a preset loudness threshold can be used to determine whether the current second noise value has achieved a masking effect. The preset loudness threshold can be set between 30 phon and 40 phon, where phon is a unit of loudness level.

[0070] If the second noise value is less than the preset loudness threshold, it indicates that the second noise value at this time will not cause discomfort to the human ear, and the masking sound has a masking effect. The controller 500 controls the auxiliary sound source 120 to maintain the current power; if the second noise value is greater than the preset loudness threshold, it indicates that the second noise value at this time is too large, the masking effect of the masking sound is not obvious, and the noise at this time will still cause discomfort to the human ear. Therefore, the controller 500 controls the auxiliary sound source 120 to increase the power.

[0071] It can be understood that the noise of the refrigerator 100 is mainly generated by the operation of the compressor 1, the fan 130, and the vacuum pump 140. Therefore, after the auxiliary sound source 120 is started, the controller 500 is also configured to detect the operating status of the compressor 1, the fan 130 and the vacuum pump 140.

[0072] If the controller 500 determines that the speed of at least one of the compressor 1, fan 130, and vacuum pump 140 has decreased and the speed adjustment has reached a preset speed adjustment threshold, the auxiliary sound source 120 is deactivated and the first noise level during operation of the refrigerator 100 is re-tested. For example, if at least one of the compressor 1, fan 130, and vacuum pump 140 is shut down or has its gear adjusted, the noise level of the refrigerator 100 during operation may be reduced or even eliminated. If the first noise level at this time is determined to be less than the preset decibel threshold, the auxiliary sound source 120 does not need to be activated again.

[0073] In some embodiments, in addition to reducing noise by emitting masking sound from the auxiliary sound source 120, the refrigerator 100 also reduces noise by controlling the speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 based on the operating status of the vacuum pump 140. The controller 500 is further configured to: if it is determined that the vacuum pump 140 is in operation, control the compressor 1 to operate within a first preset speed range and control the fan 130 to operate within a second preset speed range; if it is determined that the vacuum level of the vacuum chamber has reached a preset vacuum threshold, control the vacuum pump 140 to stop operating, increase the speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130, control the compressor 1 to operate within a third preset speed range, and control the fan 130 to operate within a fourth preset speed range; and if it is determined that the temperature of the storage chamber has reached a set temperature, reduce the speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130, and control the compressor 1 and the fan 130 to stop operating after the speed reduction has lasted for a preset time.

[0074] It can be understood that the maximum value of the first preset speed range is smaller than the minimum value of the third preset speed range, and the maximum value of the second preset speed range is smaller than the minimum value of the fourth preset speed range.

[0075] Since the noise generated by the vacuum pump 140 when in operation is relatively obvious, if the vacuum pump 140 is working, the speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 can be reduced at this time. If the vacuum pump 140 stops working, the speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 can be increased at this time. After the temperature of the storage chamber reaches the set temperature (or the temperature corresponding to the set gear), the speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 is reduced. After reducing the speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 for a preset time, the compressor 1 and the fan 130 are shut down. For example, the preset time is 1 minute. In this way, shutting down after 1 minute can avoid direct shutdown of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 at high speeds, which may cause damage to the motor.

[0076] In some embodiments, the controller 500 can control the speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 not only according to the operating state of the vacuum pump 140, but also according to the operating state of the refrigerator 100. For example, the operating states of the refrigerator 100 include an initial power-on stage, a cooling stage, a defrosting stage, and a defrosting recovery stage.

[0077] It should be noted that, since the compressor 1 and the fan 130 are in a stopped state during the defrosting stage, it is not necessary to determine whether the refrigerator 100 is in a defrosting state. Therefore, the controller 500 is further configured to:

[0078] If it is determined that the refrigerator 100 is powered on for the first time or is in the cooling stage, the compressor 1 is controlled to operate at a first preset speed, the fan 130 is controlled to operate at a second preset speed, and after the speed is increased, the compressor 1 is controlled to operate at a third preset speed, and the fan 130 is controlled to operate at a fourth preset speed;

[0079] If it is determined that the refrigerator 100 is in the defrost recovery stage, the compressor 1 is controlled to run at the fifth preset speed, and the fan 130 is controlled to run at the sixth preset speed. After the speed is increased, the compressor 1 is controlled to run at the seventh preset speed, and the fan 130 is controlled to run at the eighth preset speed.

[0080] It is understood that the first preset speed is less than the fifth preset speed, the second preset speed is less than the sixth preset speed, the third preset speed is less than the seventh preset speed, and the fourth preset speed is less than the eighth preset speed.

[0081] It should be noted that the first preset speed and the fifth preset speed are within the first preset speed range, the second preset speed and the sixth preset speed are within the second preset speed range, the third preset speed and the seventh preset speed are within the third preset speed range, and the fourth preset speed and the eighth preset speed are within the fourth preset speed range.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the controller 500 controls the speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 according to the operating stage of the refrigerator 100 and the operating status of the vacuum pump 140. When the refrigerator 100 is powered on for the first time or is in the cooling stage, and the vacuum pump 140 is working, the compressor 1 runs at a first preset speed and the fan 130 runs at a second preset speed. For example, the speed of the compressor 1 is 1200-1500 rpm, and the speed of the fan 130 is 800-900 rpm. After the vacuum pump 140 stops working, the speed of the compressor 1 increases to a third preset speed, and the speed of the fan 130 increases to a fourth preset speed. For example, the speed of the compressor 1 is 3000-3900 rpm, and the speed of the fan 130 is 1200-1400 rpm.

[0083] When the refrigerator 100 is in the defrost recovery phase and the vacuum pump 140 is operating, the compressor 1 operates at the fifth preset speed and the fan 130 operates at the sixth preset speed. For example, the speed of the compressor 1 is 1800-2000 rpm and the speed of the fan 130 is 1000-1100 rpm. After the vacuum pump 140 stops operating, the speed of the compressor 1 is increased to the seventh preset speed and the speed of the fan 130 is increased to the eighth preset speed. For example, the speed of the compressor 1 is 3900-4200 rpm and the speed of the fan 130 is 1400-1500 rpm.

[0084] It is understandable that, because the temperature of the storage compartment of the refrigerator 100 needs to be quickly raised to the set temperature during the defrost recovery phase, even if the vacuum pump is operating at this time, the rotational speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 should be higher than during the refrigeration phase when the vacuum pump 140 is also operating. Thus, while reducing noise, the refrigeration and freshness preservation effects of the refrigerator 100 can still be ensured.

[0085] In some embodiments, the controller 500 further controls the speed of the vacuum pump 140 in conjunction with the operating stage of the refrigerator 100. The controller 500 is further configured to: if it is determined that the refrigerator 100 is powered on for the first time or is in the cooling stage, control the speed of the vacuum pump 140 in the operating state to a ninth preset speed; if it is determined that the refrigerator 100 is in the defrost recovery stage, control the speed of the vacuum pump 140 in the operating state to a tenth preset speed. The tenth preset speed is less than the ninth preset speed.

[0086] During the defrost recovery phase, the temperature of the refrigerator 100's storage compartment must be quickly raised to the set temperature. The speeds of the compressor 1 and fan 130 are both relatively high. Therefore, controlling the speed of the vacuum pump 140 to a lower level during this phase prevents the compressor 1, fan 130, and vacuum pump 140 from all running at high speeds and causing excessive noise. When the refrigerator 100 is initially powered on or in the cooling phase, the speeds of the compressor 1 and fan 130 are both relatively low. The vacuum pump 140 can then operate at a higher speed, achieving a rapid vacuuming effect.

[0087] 10 , the refrigerator 100 can establish a connection with the client 200 via either the router 300 or the cloud server 400. If the refrigerator 100 and the client 200 communicate via the router 300, this indicates that the refrigerator 100 and the client 200 are relatively close together. The user can check the operating status of the refrigerator 100 or the food storage status in the kitchen from the living room or bedroom. If the refrigerator 100 and the client 200 communicate via the cloud server 400, this indicates that the refrigerator 100 and the client 200 are relatively far apart. The user can interact with the refrigerator 100 through an app installed on the client 200, thereby enabling remote control of the refrigerator 100.

[0088] Referring to Figure 11 , some embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a refrigerator noise reduction method, which is implemented by a controller 500 in a refrigerator 100. This refrigerator noise reduction method is applicable to refrigerators equipped with an auxiliary sound source 120 configured to emit a masking sound to reduce noise. The refrigerator 100 also includes a sensor 110 configured to detect noise levels during operation. This refrigerator noise reduction method includes steps S1 to S4.

[0089] Step S1: During the operation of the refrigerator 100, a first noise value detected by the sensor 110 is obtained.

[0090] Step S2: If it is determined that the first noise value is greater than the preset decibel threshold, a target frequency band is searched from the frequency band of the current noise, and the noise amplitude of the target frequency band is calculated.

[0091] Step S3: determining a masking sound with a phase opposite to that of the target frequency band according to the noise amplitude.

[0092] Step S4: Control the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit the masking sound to reduce noise.

[0093] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 5 , the method includes steps S11 to S16 .

[0094] Step S11, determining whether the refrigerator 100 is running. If so, executing step S12; if not, executing step S11 again.

[0095] Step S12: Acquire a first noise value detected by the sensor 110.

[0096] Step S13, determining whether the first noise value is greater than a preset decibel threshold; if so, executing step S14; if not, the process ends.

[0097] Step S14: searching for a target frequency band from the current noise frequency band, and calculating the noise amplitude of the target frequency band.

[0098] Step S15: determining a masking sound with a phase opposite to that of the target frequency band according to the noise amplitude.

[0099] Step S16: Control the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit the masking sound to reduce noise.

[0100] 6 , after controlling the auxiliary sound source 120 to emit the masking sound (ie, step S16 ), the noise reduction method for the refrigerator further includes steps S17 to S20 .

[0101] Step S17: Acquire a second noise value detected by the sensor 110.

[0102] Step S18, determining whether the second noise value is less than a preset loudness threshold; if so, executing step S19; if not, executing step S20.

[0103] Step S19: Control the current power of the auxiliary sound source 120 to remain unchanged.

[0104] Step S20: Adjust the power of the auxiliary sound source 120. Then continue to step S18.

[0105] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 , in step S13 , when it is determined that the first noise value is greater than the preset decibel threshold, the method further includes steps S21 to S29 .

[0106] In step S21 , it is determined whether the vacuum pump 140 is working; if so, step S22 is executed; if not, step S25 is executed.

[0107] Step S22: Control the compressor 1 to operate within a first preset speed range, and control the fan 130 to operate within a second preset speed range.

[0108] Step S23, determining whether the vacuum degree of the vacuum chamber reaches a preset vacuum degree threshold; if so, executing step S24; if not, continuing to execute step S23.

[0109] In step S24 , the vacuum pump 140 is controlled to stop working, and the rotation speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130 are increased.

[0110] Step S25 , controlling the compressor 1 to operate within a third preset speed range, and controlling the fan 130 to operate within a fourth preset speed range.

[0111] Step S26, determining whether the temperature of the storage chamber reaches a preset temperature; if so, executing step S27; if not, continuing to execute step S26.

[0112] Step S27: reducing the rotation speeds of the compressor 1 and the fan 130.

[0113] Step S28, determining whether the duration of the speed reduction reaches a preset time; if so, executing step S29; if not, continuing to execute step S28.

[0114] Step S29: Control the compressor 1 and the fan 130 to stop working.

[0115] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 8 , the noise reduction method for a refrigerator includes steps S31 to S37 .

[0116] Step S31, determining whether the refrigerator is in the defrost recovery stage; if so, executing steps S35 to S37; if not, executing steps S32 to S34.

[0117] Step S32: Control the compressor 1 to operate at a first preset speed, and control the fan 130 to operate at a second preset speed.

[0118] Step S33, determining whether to increase the rotational speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130; if so, executing step S34; if not, executing step S32.

[0119] Step S34 , controlling the compressor 1 to operate at a third preset speed, and controlling the fan 130 to operate at a fourth preset speed.

[0120] Step S35 , controlling the compressor 1 to operate at a fifth preset speed, and controlling the fan 130 to operate at a sixth preset speed.

[0121] Step S36, determining whether to increase the rotational speed of the compressor 1 and the fan 130; if so, executing step S37; if not, executing step S35.

[0122] Step S37 , controlling the compressor 1 to operate at the seventh preset speed, and controlling the fan 130 to operate at the eighth preset speed.

[0123] 6 and 9 , in step S13 , when it is determined that the first noise value is greater than the preset decibel threshold, the method further includes steps S41 to S43 .

[0124] Step S41, determining whether the refrigerator 100 is in the defrost recovery stage; if so, executing step S43; if not, executing step S42.

[0125] In step S42 , the rotation speed of the vacuum pump 140 in the operating state is a ninth preset rotation speed.

[0126] In step S43 , the rotation speed of the vacuum pump 140 in the operating state is set to a tenth preset rotation speed.

[0127] Those skilled in the art will understand that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above specific embodiments, and that certain elements of the embodiments may be modified and replaced without departing from the spirit of the present application. The scope of the present application is limited by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: A box body, wherein the box body has a storage chamber, and the storage chamber includes a refrigerating chamber and a freezing chamber; A door body, the door body is connected to the box body to open or close the storage chamber; A sensor is disposed in the box and is configured to detect a noise value of the refrigerator during operation; an auxiliary sound source, disposed in the box and configured to emit a masking sound; as well as A controller, the controller being configured to: During the operation of the refrigerator, obtaining a first noise value detected by the sensor; If the first noise value is greater than a preset decibel threshold, searching for a target frequency band from the frequency band of the current noise, and calculating the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; Determining a masking sound having an anti-phase with the target frequency band according to the noise amplitude; The auxiliary sound source is controlled to emit the masking sound to reduce noise.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is also configured to: After controlling the auxiliary sound source to emit the masking sound, continuing to obtain a second noise value detected by the sensor; If it is determined that the second noise value is less than a preset loudness threshold, controlling the current power of the auxiliary sound source to remain unchanged; If it is determined that the second noise value is greater than or equal to the preset loudness threshold, the power of the auxiliary sound source is adjusted until it is determined that the second noise value is less than the preset loudness threshold, and then the current power of the auxiliary sound source is controlled to remain unchanged.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The storage chamber includes a vacuum chamber, and the refrigerator further includes: A vacuum pump is disposed in the housing, and the vacuum pump is configured to keep the vacuum chamber in a vacuum state; A compressor is disposed in the housing and is configured to compress the refrigerant and provide power for the refrigerant circulation; and a fan, disposed in the box body and configured to allow air to enter the evaporator, exchange heat with the evaporator, and deliver the heat-exchanged air into the storage room; The controller is also configured to: If it is determined that the vacuum pump is in operation, the compressor is controlled to operate within a first preset speed range, and the fan is controlled to operate within a second preset speed range.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein: The step of controlling the compressor to operate within a first preset speed range, and controlling the fan to operate within a second preset speed range, comprises: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a first preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a second preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a fifth preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a sixth preset speed; The first preset speed is smaller than the fifth preset speed, and the second preset speed is smaller than the sixth preset speed.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The controller is also configured to: If it is determined that the vacuum degree of the vacuum chamber is within the preset vacuum threshold range, the vacuum pump is controlled to stop working, the compressor is controlled to operate within a third preset speed range, and the fan is controlled to operate within a fourth preset speed range; The minimum value of the third preset speed range is greater than the maximum value of the first preset speed range, and the minimum value of the fourth preset speed range is greater than the maximum value of the second preset speed range.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein: The step of controlling the compressor to operate within a third preset speed range and controlling the fan to operate within a fourth preset speed range comprises: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a third preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a fourth preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a seventh preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at an eighth preset speed; Among them, the third preset speed is smaller than the seventh preset speed, and the fourth preset speed is smaller than the eighth preset speed.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The controller is also configured to: If it is determined that the temperature of the storage chamber is within a preset temperature threshold range, the rotation speeds of the compressor and the fan are reduced, and after the rotation speeds are reduced for a preset time, the compressor and the fan are controlled to stop working.

8. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the speed of the vacuum pump in the running state to be a ninth preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the speed of the vacuum pump in the running state to be a tenth preset speed; Wherein, the tenth preset speed is less than the ninth preset speed.

9. A method for reducing noise in a refrigerator, applied to a refrigerator equipped with an auxiliary sound source, wherein the auxiliary sound source is configured to emit a masking sound; The refrigerator further comprises a sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a noise value of the refrigerator during operation; wherein, The method comprises: During the operation of the refrigerator, obtaining a first noise value detected by the sensor; If it is determined that the first noise value is greater than the preset decibel threshold, searching for a target frequency band from the frequency band of the current noise, and calculating the noise amplitude of the target frequency band; Determining a masking sound having an anti-phase with the target frequency band according to the noise amplitude; The auxiliary sound source is controlled to emit the masking sound to reduce noise.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: After controlling the auxiliary sound source to emit the masking sound, continuing to obtain a second noise value detected by the sensor; If it is determined that the second noise value is less than a preset loudness threshold, controlling the current power of the auxiliary sound source to remain unchanged; If it is determined that the second noise value is greater than or equal to the preset loudness threshold, the power of the auxiliary sound source is adjusted until it is determined that the second noise value is less than the preset loudness threshold, and then the current power of the auxiliary sound source is controlled to remain unchanged.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the refrigerator further comprises: A box body, wherein the box body has a storage chamber, and the storage chamber includes a refrigeration chamber, a freezing chamber and a vacuum chamber; A vacuum pump is disposed in the housing, and the vacuum pump is configured to keep the vacuum chamber in a vacuum state; A compressor, disposed in the housing and configured to compress the refrigerant and provide power for the refrigerant circulation; as well as a fan, disposed in the box body and configured to allow air to enter the evaporator, exchange heat with the evaporator, and deliver the heat-exchanged air into the storage room; The method further comprises: If it is determined that the vacuum pump is in operation, the compressor is controlled to operate within a first preset speed range. And control the fan to operate within a second preset speed range.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein: The step of controlling the compressor to operate within a first preset speed range, and controlling the fan to operate within a second preset speed range, comprises: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a first preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a second preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a fifth preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a sixth preset speed; The first preset speed is smaller than the fifth preset speed, and the second preset speed is smaller than the sixth preset speed.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising: If it is determined that the vacuum degree of the vacuum chamber is within the preset vacuum threshold range, the vacuum pump is controlled to stop working, the compressor is controlled to operate within a third preset speed range, and the fan is controlled to operate within a fourth preset speed range; The minimum value of the third preset speed range is greater than the maximum value of the first preset speed range, and the minimum value of the fourth preset speed range is greater than the maximum value of the second preset speed range.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The step of controlling the compressor to operate within a third preset speed range and controlling the fan to operate within a fourth preset speed range comprises: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a third preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at a fourth preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the compressor to operate at a seventh preset speed, and controlling the fan to operate at an eighth preset speed; Among them, the third preset speed is smaller than the seventh preset speed, and the fourth preset speed is smaller than the eighth preset speed.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising: If it is determined that the temperature of the storage chamber is within a preset temperature threshold range, the rotation speeds of the compressor and the fan are reduced, and after the rotation speeds are reduced for a preset time, the compressor and the fan are controlled to stop working.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein: If it is determined that the refrigerator is powered on for the first time or is in a refrigeration stage, controlling the speed of the vacuum pump in the running state to be a ninth preset speed; If it is determined that the refrigerator is in the defrosting recovery stage, controlling the speed of the vacuum pump in the running state to be a tenth preset speed; Wherein, the tenth preset speed is less than the ninth preset speed.

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