Refrigerator and control method thereof

Abstract

A refrigerator and a control method thereof, the refrigerator (100) comprising an image acquisition device (5), a first sensor (9), a first ion generation assembly (361), a second ion generation assembly (362) and a controller (6), the controller (6) being configured to: after receiving a door closing signal sent by the first sensor (9), receive an image acquired by the image acquisition device (5), and send the image to the first ion generation assembly (361) and the second ion generation assembly (362); determining whether food materials are added in the food material storage area according to the image; if it is determined that food materials are added in the food material storage area, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box body (1) at the moment is attachment bacteria, and a second ion generation assembly (362) is started; if it is determined that the food materials in the food material storage area are not changed or the food materials are reduced, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box body (1) at the moment is planktonic bacteria, and a first ion generation assembly (361) is started.

Description

Refrigerator and control method thereof

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310692805.6 filed on June 9, 2023, priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310692973.5 filed on June 9, 2023, priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310692963.1 filed on June 9, 2023, and priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310692827.2 filed on June 9, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] Refrigerators lower the temperature of their compartments to extend the shelf life of food. However, even with this lowered temperature, harmful microorganisms can still thrive within them. These harmful microorganisms not only reduce the freshness of food but also affect its taste. Therefore, refrigerator sterilization is essential.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] On the one hand, a refrigerator is provided, which includes a cabinet, a door, an image acquisition device, a first sensor, a cleaning device and a controller. The door is configured to open or close the cabinet. The image acquisition device is arranged inside the cabinet, and the image acquisition device is configured to capture images to identify whether the amount of food in the cabinet has changed. The first sensor is arranged in one of the cabinet and the door, and is configured to detect the switch state of the door. The cleaning device is arranged in the cabinet, and the cleaning device includes a first ion generating component and a second ion generating component. The first ion generating component is configured to use the positive and negative ion groups generated by itself to remove floating bacteria in the air in the cabinet. The second ion generating component is configured to use the strong oxidizing ion group generated by itself to remove attached bacteria on the inner wall of the cabinet and the surface of the food. The controller is configured to: after receiving the door closing signal sent by the first sensor, receive the image captured by the image acquisition device, and determine whether food is added to the food storage area based on the image; if it is determined that food is added to the food storage area, determine that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box at this time is attached bacteria, and turn on the second ion generating component; if it is determined that the food storage area does not change or the food is reduced, determine that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box at this time is floating bacteria, and turn on the first ion generating component.

[0006] In another aspect, a method for controlling a refrigerator is provided, wherein the refrigerator includes a cabinet, a door, an image acquisition device, a first sensor, a second sensor, and a cleaning device. The door is configured to open or close the cabinet. The image acquisition device is disposed within the cabinet and is configured to capture images to identify changes in the amount of food inside the cabinet. The first sensor is disposed within one of the cabinet or the door and is configured to detect the open or closed state of the door. The second sensor is disposed within the cabinet and is configured to detect the concentration of odor within the cabinet. The cleaning device is disposed within the cabinet and includes a first ion generating assembly, a second ion generating assembly, and a first catalytic assembly. The first ion generating assembly is configured to remove airborne bacteria in the cabinet using the positive and negative ion groups it generates. The second ion generating assembly is configured to remove bacteria attached to the inner walls of the cabinet and the surfaces of food using the strong oxidizing ion groups it generates. The first catalytic assembly is configured to remove odor molecules within the cabinet using the ion groups it generates. The method includes: after receiving a door closing signal from the first sensor, receiving an image captured by the image acquisition device, and determining whether food has been added to the food storage area based on the image; if it is determined that food has been added to the food storage area, determining that the newly introduced bacteria in the box are attached bacteria, and activating the second ion generating component; if it is determined that the food storage area has not changed or has decreased, determining that the newly introduced bacteria in the box are floating bacteria, and activating the first ion generating component. The method also includes: obtaining an odor concentration detected by the second sensor; if the odor concentration is greater than the lower limit of a first preset concentration range, activating the first catalytic component to remove odor molecules in the box. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0008] FIG2 is a block diagram of a controller of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0009] FIG3 is a structural diagram of a cleaning device for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0010] FIG4 is an exploded view of a cleaning device for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0011] FIG5 is another exploded view of a cleaning device for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0012] FIG6 is a partial structural diagram of a cleaning device for a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0013] FIG7 is a partial enlarged view of the circle A in FIG5 ;

[0014] FIG8A is a partial enlarged view of circle B in FIG6 (excluding the needle tip structure);

[0015] FIG8B is a structural diagram of a second ion generating device including a needle tip structure in FIG8A;

[0016] FIG9 is a structural diagram of a first catalytic assembly according to some embodiments;

[0017] FIG10A is an exploded view of a first catalytic assembly according to some embodiments;

[0018] 10B is an exploded view of another first catalytic assembly according to some embodiments;

[0019] FIG11A is a voltage diagram of a first catalytic assembly according to some embodiments;

[0020] FIG11B is a voltage diagram of another first catalytic assembly according to some embodiments;

[0021] FIG12 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration of a controller according to some embodiments;

[0022] FIG13 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0023] FIG14 is a flow chart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0024] FIG15 is another flow chart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0025] FIG16 is another flow chart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0026] FIG17 is a flow chart of sterilizing food according to food type according to some embodiments;

[0027] FIG18 is a flow chart of sterilizing food according to the quantity of food according to some embodiments;

[0028] FIG19 is another flow chart of a method for controlling a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0029] FIG20 is a flow chart illustrating a refrigerator adjusting a first fan speed according to an odor concentration according to some embodiments;

[0030] FIG21 is a flow chart illustrating how a refrigerator adjusts the speeds of a first fan and a second fan according to odor concentration according to some embodiments;

[0031] FIG22 is a flow chart of a control method for a refrigerator in a defrost mode according to some embodiments;

[0032] FIG23 is another flow chart of a control method of a refrigerator in a defrost mode according to some embodiments; and

[0033] FIG. 24 is another flow chart of a method for controlling a refrigerator in a defrost mode according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] 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, not 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] “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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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.

[0042] Storing food in the refrigerator for extended periods of time can easily breed bacteria and produce odors. Common bacteria found in refrigerators include Salmonella, Shigella, Listeria, and E. coli. Most refrigerator odors come from odor molecules produced by bacterial metabolism, such as hydrogen sulfide and methylamine.

[0043] Traditional refrigerator sterilization technologies include photocatalytic sterilization, plasma sterilization, negative ion sterilization, ultraviolet sterilization, sampling sterilization, and silver ion sterilization. During the sterilization process, the refrigerator's sterilization components can destroy the structure of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, etc.) and odor molecules by generating strong oxidizing active substances, negative ions, ultraviolet light, silver ions, etc., to achieve the effect of sterilization, disinfection, and odor removal.

[0044] For example, a refrigerator's sterilization system includes a plasma generator, which uses positive and negative high voltages to ionize air (primarily oxygen), producing a large number of positive and negative ions (the number of negative ions is approximately 1.5 times the number of positive ions). The moment the positive and negative ions neutralize each other in the air, they release a tremendous amount of energy, causing structural changes in surrounding bacteria or viruses, ultimately killing them and achieving the desired sterilization and disinfection effect. Because the number of negative ions is greater than the number of positive ions, the excess negative ions remain in the air, removing dust, eliminating odors (i.e., purifying), and improving air quality.

[0045] For example, refrigerators' sterilization components include strong oxidizing ion generators. Strong oxidizing substances, such as ozone, can act on bacterial cell membranes or viral genetic material, rapidly sterilizing and disinfecting them. However, ozone sterilization and disinfection must be performed in an unoccupied space, as otherwise it could cause harm to the human body or even poisoning.

[0046] Currently, refrigerators have a relatively single sterilization mode. In this single sterilization mode, the refrigerator typically activates all installed sterilization components for sterilization. However, because different sterilization components have varying effectiveness against different types or forms of harmful microorganisms, this method not only fails to eliminate all harmful microorganisms, but also wastes energy and may produce excessive amounts of strong oxidizing ions, affecting food quality.

[0047] Therefore, it is possible to first distinguish the different types or forms of harmful microorganisms in the refrigerator, and then use targeted sterilization technologies to effectively remove them. For example, effective sterilization technologies for bacteria attached to food surfaces include ultraviolet irradiation or strong oxidizing ion sterilization.

[0048] Due to the immaturity of current refrigerator microbial sensor technology, it is unable to accurately detect common microorganisms such as Salmonella and E. coli in refrigerators. Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution: if the refrigerator door is opened and then closed and the amount of food does not increase, it is determined that floating bacteria have been introduced into the refrigerator. If the refrigerator door is opened and then closed and the amount of food increases, it is determined that bacteria attached to the food surfaces have been introduced into the refrigerator.

[0049] In order to solve the above problems, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a refrigerator 100. The refrigerator 100 includes a first sensor, an image acquisition device, a first ion generating component and a second ion generating component. After receiving the door opening signal sent by the first sensor, the refrigerator 100 obtains the image information acquired by the image acquisition device, and determines whether the amount of food in the box has changed based on the image information. If the food in the box increases, it is determined that the type of bacteria in the box is mainly attached bacteria, and the first ion generating component is turned on to remove the attached bacteria. If the food in the box remains unchanged or decreases, it is determined that the type of bacteria in the box is mainly floating bacteria, and the second ion generating component is turned on to remove the floating bacteria.

[0050] In this way, the bacteria in the cabinet 1 are divided into planktonic bacteria in the air in the cabinet 1 and attached bacteria attached to the inner wall of the cabinet 1 and on the food. The refrigerator 100 removes the planktonic bacteria and attached bacteria separately, which is beneficial to reduce energy consumption and improve sterilization efficiency.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1, refrigerator 100 includes a housing 1. Housing 1 defines compartments for storing food. These compartments include a refrigerator and a freezer. These compartments may also include a vacuum chamber and a temperature-controlled chamber to meet different storage needs.

[0052] Refrigerator 100 also includes a door 2. Door 2 comprises an inner door liner 22 and an outer door shell 21. Door 2 is configured to open and close the compartment. When closed, door 2 forms a sealed space within refrigerator 1, facilitating sterilization and odor removal within refrigerator 1. Door 2 also prevents the introduction of new bacteria and prevents contamination of the air inside refrigerator 1 by air outside refrigerator 1.

[0053] In some embodiments, the refrigerator body 1 includes an inner liner 12, a second shell 11, and an insulation layer. The inner liner 12 defines the compartment. The second shell 11 is attached to the exterior of the inner liner 12 to form the exterior appearance of the refrigerator 100. The insulation layer is disposed between the inner liner 12 and the second shell 11 to thermally insulate the compartment. A second air duct 13 is formed between the inner liner 12 and the second shell 11 and communicates with the compartment within the refrigerator body 1.

[0054] In some embodiments, refrigerator 100 further includes a refrigeration system disposed within second air duct 13. Cold air generated by the refrigeration system enters the compartment through second air duct 13 to cool the food inside. The refrigeration system includes a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator interconnected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation circuit. Refrigerant circulates within the refrigerant circulation circuit to achieve a cooling effect.

[0055] The refrigerant flow process is as follows: First, the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is compressed by the compressor into a high-temperature, high-pressure vapor refrigerant, which is then discharged to the condenser. In the condenser, the high-temperature, high-pressure vapor refrigerant is condensed into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. During the condensation process, the refrigerant releases heat into the surrounding environment of the condenser.

[0056] The high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant discharged from the condenser is expanded into a low-pressure liquid refrigerant after passing through the expansion valve. The low-pressure liquid refrigerant then evaporates in the evaporator, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. During the evaporation process, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air surrounding the evaporator, lowering the temperature of the gas around the evaporator. The low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant then returns to the compressor. This cycle continues, achieving the cooling effect of refrigerator 100.

[0057] Referring to Figure 1 , in some embodiments, refrigerator 100 further includes a cleaning device 3 . This cleaning device 3 is configured to generate strong oxidizing substances, positive and negative ions, and other substances to sterilize and deodorize the air and food within the compartment. The cleaning device 3 is disposed within the housing 1 . For example, the cleaning device 3 may be disposed on the top of the housing 1 . This facilitates the release of strong oxidizing substances, positive and negative ions, and other substances into the compartment, thereby removing harmful microorganisms and odor molecules within the compartment.

[0058] 3 to 5 , the cleaning device 3 includes a first housing 31, a first fan 34, and an ion generator 36. The first housing 31 includes a first sub-housing 311 and a second sub-housing 312. For example, the first sub-housing 311 is arranged above as shown in FIG3 . The first sub-housing 311 and the second sub-housing 312 can be connected by a snap-fit ​​or other method. During installation, the first sub-housing 311 can be oriented toward the compartment, and the second sub-housing 312 can be connected to the inner wall of the housing 1.

[0059] The first sub-housing 311 also has an air inlet 32 ​​and an air outlet 33. For example, the air inlet 32 ​​is provided on the first sub-housing 311. This allows the cleaning device 3 to be installed in the housing 1, with the air inlet 32 ​​facing the compartment, allowing air in the compartment to enter the cleaning device 3. The air outlet 33 is provided on one side of the first housing 31. For example, the air outlet 33 is provided on the right side of the first housing 31 as shown in FIG3 .

[0060] A first fan 34 is disposed within the first housing 31. The first fan 34 is configured to accelerate the flow of air within the chamber into the cleaning device 3. For example, the first fan 34 is disposed opposite the air inlet 32. This improves the contact efficiency between the air within the chamber and the ion clusters within the cleaning device 3, thereby enhancing the efficiency of sterilization and odor removal.

[0061] An ion generator 36 is disposed within the first housing 31. The ion generator 36 is configured to generate a cluster of ions to remove bacteria within the housing 1. The ions in the cluster can include strong oxidizing ions, positive ions, and negative ions. For example, the ion generator 36 is located near the air outlet 33 to facilitate the diffusion of positive and negative ions and strong oxidizing active substances.

[0062] In some embodiments, a first air duct 35 is formed inside the first housing 31 to allow airflow to pass through and provide installation space for components such as a first fan 34 and an ion generator 36. The first air duct 35 is connected to the air inlet 32 ​​and the air outlet 33 respectively.

[0063] In this way, the air in the cabinet 1 enters the first air duct 35 through the air inlet 32, flows through the ion generator 36 under the action of the first fan 34, and comes into contact with the ion clusters produced by the ion generator 36. Then, it flows back into the cabinet 1 through the air outlet 33. During this process of contact between the air and the ion clusters, the ions in the ion clusters can absorb and decompose odor molecules and floating bacteria in the air. The ions then flow into the cabinet 1 with the airflow, removing bacteria attached to the inner wall of the cabinet 1 or the surface of the food.

[0064] In some embodiments, the cleaning device 3 further includes a power supply 37. The power supply 37 is configured to provide voltage to the ion generator 36, causing the ion generator 36 to discharge to form ion clusters, thereby sterilizing the interior of the refrigerator 100. The power supply 37 is coupled to the ion generator 36, and the refrigerator 100 can control the ion concentration by using the discharge rule of the power supply 37. For example, the power supply 37 is a high-voltage power supply. The voltage range of the high-voltage power supply can be -9 kV to 9 kV. The discharge rule can be a relationship between voltage and ion concentration, or a relationship between discharge time and ion concentration.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ion generating device 36 includes a first ion generating assembly 361, which is configured to generate positive and negative ions to efficiently and quickly remove airborne bacteria in the air within the refrigerator 100. The first ion generating assembly 361 is disposed on a side of the first fan 34 near the air outlet 33. For example, the first ion generating assembly 361 is a positive and negative ion generating assembly (i.e., a plasma generating assembly).

[0066] In some embodiments, the first housing 31 further has a first opening 3111 . The first opening 3111 is provided in the first sub-housing 311 and corresponds to the first ion generating assembly 361 to release the positive and negative ions generated by the first ion generating assembly 361 .

[0067] 5 and 7 , the first ion generating assembly 361 includes a first electrode 3611 and a second electrode 3612. The first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 are arranged along the length direction of the first housing 31 (the left-right direction as shown in FIG3 ). A power supply 37 is coupled to the first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612. The first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 can generate positive ion groups and negative ion groups using the voltage provided by the power supply.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first ion generator assembly 361 utilizes carbon brushes as discharge electrodes. Specifically, the first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 serve as carbon brush electrodes. One of the first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 is connected to a positive high voltage, serving as a positive high-voltage carbon brush electrode. The other of the first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 is connected to a negative high voltage, serving as a negative high-voltage carbon brush electrode. For example, the negative high-voltage DC range of the negative high-voltage carbon brush electrode is -2 to -9 kV, while the positive high-voltage DC range of the positive high-voltage carbon brush electrode is 2 to 9 kV.

[0069] It is understood that the purpose of the carbon brush electrode's discharge into the air is to generate a large number of positive and negative ions. The voltage of the carbon brush electrode depends on the curvature of the brush tip. The greater the curvature of the brush tip, the lower the critical voltage for generating positive and negative ions. Some embodiments of the present disclosure utilize a carbon brush with a negative DC high voltage range of -2 to -9 kV and a positive DC high voltage range of 2 to 9 kV, effectively generating a large number of positive and negative ions.

[0070] It should be noted that the discharge electrode of the first ion generating assembly 361 is not limited to a carbon brush electrode, and may also be a needle-shaped discharge electrode, etc. The positions of the positive high-voltage electrode and the negative high-voltage electrode are not limited in the figure, and the positions of the positive and negative high-voltage electrodes can be interchanged.

[0071] In some embodiments, the ion generating device 36 further includes a second ion generating assembly 362, which is configured to generate strong oxidizing ions using the corona discharge phenomenon and further generate strong oxidizing active substances. The second ion generating assembly 362 is arranged on the side of the first fan 34 close to the air outlet 33. For example, the second ion generating assembly 362 is a strong oxidizing ion generating assembly. Strong oxidizing active substances include hydroxyl radicals (.OH), ozone (O3), atomic oxygen (O), ground state oxygen (O*), nitrogen oxides (NOx), etc. Strong oxidizing active substances can diffuse to the inner wall of the refrigerator 100 and the surface of the food, effectively killing and removing attached bacteria.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first shell 31 further has a second opening 3112 . The second opening 3112 is disposed on the first sub-shell 311 and corresponds to the second ion generating assembly 362 to release the strong oxidizing active substance generated by the second ion generating assembly 362 .

[0073] 5 to 8B , the second ion generating assembly 362 includes an emitter electrode assembly 3622, a mounting plate 3623, and a needle tip 3621. The needle tip 3621 is disposed on the mounting plate 3623, which is disposed on a side of the emitter electrode assembly 3622 adjacent to the first sub-housing 311. A power supply 37 is coupled to the emitter electrode assembly 3622. The emitter electrode assembly 3622 is configured to utilize a voltage provided by the power supply 37 to cause the needle tip assembly 3621 to generate a corona discharge, thereby forming a strong oxidizing ion cluster. The second ion generating assembly 362 may include a plurality of needle tips 3621.

[0074] In some embodiments, referring to FIG8A , the emitter electrode assembly 3622 includes a counter electrode 36221 and a bracket 36222. The bracket 36222 is detachably secured within the first housing 31. The counter electrode 36221 includes a first sub-electrode 36221A and a second sub-electrode 36221B. The first sub-electrode 36221A and the second sub-electrode 36221B are spaced apart and secured to the bracket 36222. For example, the first sub-electrode 36221A is a high-voltage electrode, and the second sub-electrode 36221B is a collecting electrode.

[0075] In some embodiments, the needle tip 3621 is disposed between the first sub-electrode and the second sub-electrode. This allows the counter electrode 36221 to utilize the needle tip 3621 for discharge. For example, the first sub-electrode 36221A is connected to a negative high voltage, and discharge at the needle tip 3621 generates a large amount of negative ions. The generated negative ions come into contact with bacteria and dust in the air, thereby sterilizing and purifying the air. The second sub-electrode 36221B is grounded, or the relative voltage of the second sub-electrode 36221B relative to the first sub-electrode 36221A is 0. The DC negative high voltage between the first sub-electrode 36221A and the second sub-electrode 36221B ranges from -2.5 to -5 kV.

[0076] It is understood that the level of the negative DC high voltage at the first sub-electrode 36221A during the needle tip corona discharge depends on the curvature of the needle tip 3621 and the distance between the needle tip 3621 and the counter electrode 36221. The greater the curvature H / R of the needle tip 3621 (H is the needle tip height, R is the radius of the needle tip base), and the smaller the distance between the needle tip 36221A and the counter electrode 36221, the lower the critical voltage at which the needle tip 3621 initiates corona discharge.

[0077] That is, at the same voltage, the greater the curvature of needle tip 3621 and the smaller the distance between needle tip 3621 and counter electrode 36221, the more intense the discharge, generating more strong oxidizing ions. Furthermore, the electrode is more susceptible to breakdown by the discharge. Some embodiments of the present disclosure employ voltages between -2.5 and -5 kV, effectively generating strong oxidizing ions.

[0078] In some embodiments, the ion generating device 36 further includes a first catalytic component 363 , which is disposed in the first shell 31 and configured to remove odors in the housing 1 using the ion group generated by itself. For example, the first catalytic component 363 is a photocatalytic component.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first catalytic component 363 is disposed on a side of the first fan 34 near the air outlet 33. The first catalytic component 363 is configured to utilize dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) coupled with a photocatalyst to achieve low-temperature plasma discharge and synergistic photocatalytic / metal oxide catalyst catalytic functions, thereby achieving a rapid and efficient odor removal effect.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the primary function of the first catalytic component 363 is to remove odors. A power source 37 is coupled to the first catalytic component 363. The power source 37 provides a high-voltage electric field to the first catalytic component 363 to excite the photocatalyst to generate electrons and holes. The electrons migrate from the valence band to the conduction band, where they react with O2. The reaction equation is:

[0081] The valence band holes react with H2O in the air, and the reaction formula is: + +H2O→.OH

[0082] At this time, the air in the housing 1 is sucked in by the first fan 34, and the odor molecules in the air are oxidized and decomposed in the first catalytic component 363, playing a strong and rapid odor removal role.

[0083] 9 , the first catalytic assembly 363 includes a substrate 3631, a first electrode plate 3632, a second electrode plate 3633, and a photocatalyst layer 3634. The photocatalyst layer 3634 is wrapped around the outer surface of the substrate 3631, which serves as a carrier for the photocatalyst. The first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 are disposed opposite each other and are located on either side of the substrate 3631. The first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 are coupled to a power source 37. The first catalytic assembly 363 utilizes the electric field generated by the first and second electrode plates 3632, 3633 to excite the photocatalyst layer 3634 to produce strong oxidizing molecules to decompose odor molecules within the housing 10.

[0084] The base plate 3631 is positioned on the side of the first fan 34 near the air outlet 33. Multiple through-holes are provided on the base plate 3631 along the direction of the airflow to improve airflow efficiency. The provision of these through-holes also increases the surface area of ​​the photocatalyst layer 3634, improving odor removal efficiency. In other words, the surface of each through-hole is also provided with a photocatalyst layer 3634. Under the action of the first fan 34, air within the housing 1 flows from the air inlet 32 ​​into the interior of the cleaning device 3, then flows through the photocatalyst layer 3634 and finally returns to the housing 1 through the air outlet 33.

[0085] In some embodiments, substrate 3631 is configured as a porous ceramic, and a photocatalyst is coated or impregnated on the surface of the porous ceramic, thereby achieving a low-temperature plasma discharge synergistic with the photocatalyst / metal oxide catalyst catalytic function. It should be noted that the photocatalyst here can be TiO2 doped with Cu, Mn oxide, etc.

[0086] 9 , the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 are plate-type linear opposing electrodes, which can effectively excite the photocatalyst and reduce wind resistance.

[0087] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 10A , both the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 may be configured as plate-type mesh opposing electrodes.

[0088] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 10B , the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 may be respectively configured as plate-type mesh and plate-type linear opposing electrodes.

[0089] It should be noted that the present disclosure does not limit the placement positions of the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 . The first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 can be placed opposite each other left to right or up to down.

[0090] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, on the basis of setting the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 as left and right opposing electrodes, plate electrodes or line electrodes can be set at the upper and lower positions of the substrate 3631 to increase the efficiency of the photocatalyst layer 3624 in generating strong oxidizing ions.

[0091] It is understandable that the purpose of designing the electrodes into plate-type mesh or plate-type linear shapes is to apply a uniform high-voltage electric field to the substrate 3631 provided with the photocatalyst layer 3634 without affecting the wind speed and wind circulation effect.

[0092] It should be noted, referring to Figures 10A and 10B, that the difference between plate-type mesh and plate-type linear electrodes is that plate-type mesh electrodes provide a more uniform electric field, but plate-type mesh electrode pairs increase wind resistance, significantly impacting gas flow and reducing purification effectiveness. Therefore, the choice between plate-type mesh electrodes and plate-type linear electrodes should be based on a comprehensive consideration of the requirements for high-voltage electric field uniformity and gas flow.

[0093] In some embodiments, the discharge parameters of the power supply 37 to the first catalytic assembly 363 are as follows: the voltage between the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 is a cosine pulse with the same frequency, amplitude, and opposite phases, with a positive high voltage and a negative high voltage. The peak value of the positive high voltage cosine pulse ranges from 1.5 to 2.8 kV, and the corresponding peak value of the negative high voltage cosine pulse ranges from -1.5 to -2.8 kV. For example, referring to FIG. 11A , the peak value of the positive high voltage cosine pulse ranges from 2.1 to 2.5 kV, and the corresponding peak value of the negative high voltage cosine pulse ranges from -2.1 to -2.5 kV.

[0094] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, according to the voltages of the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 , the distance between the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 can be set to 20 mm.

[0095] In other embodiments, the discharge parameters of the power supply 37 to the first catalytic assembly 363 are as follows: the voltage of one of the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 can be a cosine pulse negative high voltage (cosine negative high voltage peak range: -2.5 to -4.5 kV) or a cosine pulse positive high voltage (cosine positive high voltage peak range: 2.5 to 4.5 kV). In this case, the voltage of the counter electrode, i.e., the other of the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633, relative to the high voltage electrode is "0". For example, referring to FIG. 11B , the cosine negative high voltage peak range is: -3.0 to -4.5 kV.

[0096] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, according to the voltages of the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 , the distance between the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 can be set to 20 mm.

[0097] It is understood that both voltage application conditions can effectively excite the photocatalyst layer 3634 through the electric field to produce strong oxidizing ions. In addition, in both cases, the DBD discharge voltage is relatively low, which can also prevent the generation of ozone and odor caused by high-voltage discharge between the two electrodes.

[0098] In the above two embodiments, the distance between the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 is adjusted based on their voltages, further preventing the generation of ozone. Therefore, the first catalytic component 363 does not need to adjust the voltage or discharge time according to the discharge rules to control the amount of ozone generated, thus ensuring efficient odor removal.

[0099] 9 , a first distance between the first electrode plate 3632 and the substrate 3631 is 0.1 mm-5 mm, and a second distance between the second electrode plate 3633 and the substrate 3631 is 0.1 mm-5 mm, so as to excite the photocatalyst layer 3634 at a close distance.

[0100] In this way, the first catalytic component 363 using DBD coupled photocatalyst does not need to control the ozone concentration by reducing the discharge time and the opening frequency, and can operate continuously to accelerate the deodorization speed and improve the deodorization efficiency.

[0101] In some embodiments, the second distance can be greater than the first distance, for example, twice the first distance. This increases the distance between the second electrode plate 3633 and the substrate 3631, thereby avoiding interference with ion release or airflow, thereby improving odor removal efficiency.

[0102] It should be noted that photocatalysts are often excited by ultraviolet light or utilize photoelectrocatalysis. However, ultraviolet light excitation only excites the photocatalyst on the illuminated surface of substrate 3631. The photoelectric conversion efficiency of ultraviolet light is also low, and there is also the problem of low energy utilization. Although photoelectrocatalysis uses an external bias field to delay the recombination of electrons and holes, thereby improving catalytic efficiency, it also suffers from low energy utilization and high costs.

[0103] It can be understood that, compared with the above-mentioned implementation, the use of dielectric barrier discharge coupled with photocatalyst in some embodiments of the present disclosure can improve energy utilization, reduce costs, and increase the deodorization speed.

[0104] In some embodiments, refrigerator 100 further includes a third sensor 8. Third sensor 8 is disposed outside of refrigerator housing 1 and is configured to detect the ambient temperature of refrigerator housing 1 during operation. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ambient temperature is used to assist in determining whether to initiate sterilization and odor removal during defrosting.

[0105] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4 , the ion generating device 36 further includes a second catalytic component 364, which is disposed on a side of the first air duct 35 near the air outlet 33. For example, the second catalytic component 364 is disposed on a side of the first catalytic component 363 near the air outlet 33 and is configured to further adsorb and decompose odor molecules in the air and degrade ozone generated by the high-voltage discharge of the second ion generating component 362. For example, the second catalytic component 364 is a cold catalyst component.

[0106] The second catalytic component 364 includes a cold catalyst substrate having a plurality of through holes. The outer surface of the cold catalyst substrate is coated with a cold catalyst layer. The airflow in the first shell 31 flows through the cold catalyst layer and then flows back into the interior of the housing 1 through the air outlet 33. Within the first shell 31, the airflow that has reacted with strong oxidizing ions, positive ions, and negative ions passes through the cold catalyst layer and is further cleaned, thereby ensuring the cleaning effect. The cold catalyst substrate can be configured as a porous ceramic, the surface of which is coated with a cold catalyst.

[0107] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes an ethylene removal assembly configured to remove ethylene from the interior of the refrigerator body 1. It is understood that since ethylene is an endogenous, physiologically active factor that promotes ripening, released by climacteric fruits and vegetables during postharvest ripening, reducing the ethylene content in the storage environment can effectively extend the freshness of fruits and vegetables.

[0108] 2 and 12 , refrigerator 100 further includes a controller 6 . Controller 6 includes a processor 63 , a memory 62 , a communication interface 64 , and a bus 61 . Processor 63 , memory 62 , and communication interface 64 are connected via bus 61 . Memory 62 is configured to store a control program, and processor 63 is configured to execute the control program to implement the sterilization and odor removal functions of refrigerator 100 .

[0109] The controller 6 can be a chip or a processor. For example, the processor can be a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Alternatively, the controller 6 can be a programmable device, including a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), an erasable programmable logic device (EPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The chip can be an integrated circuit (IC).

[0110] Referring to Figure 2 , the controller 6 is coupled to the first ion generating assembly 361, the second ion generating assembly 362, and the first catalytic assembly 363 to control the refrigerator 100 to perform sterilization and odor removal operations in response to user operations. For example, in response to a sterilization and odor removal instruction received from the user, the controller 6 controls the first ion generating assembly 361, the second ion generating assembly 362, and the first catalytic assembly 363 to perform sterilization and odor removal. Referring to Figure 1 , the controller 6 can be mounted on the door 2 or the cabinet 1.

[0111] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is coupled to the power supply 37. The first ion generating assembly 361 also includes a first ion circuit. The power supply 37 provides voltage to the first electrode 3611 and the second electrode 3612 through the first ion circuit. The controller 6 controls the voltage of the power supply 37 according to a first discharge rule, thereby controlling the concentrations of the positive and negative ion groups generated by the first ion generating assembly 361 to adjust the intensity of sterilization and achieve targeted sterilization. For example, the first discharge rule may be the relationship between discharge time and the concentrations of the positive and negative ion groups.

[0112] In some embodiments, the second ion generating assembly 362 includes a second ion circuit. A power supply 37 provides voltage to the emitter electrode assembly 3622 through the second ion circuit. The controller 6 controls the voltage of the power supply 37 according to a second discharge rule, thereby controlling the concentration of a strong oxidizing active substance, such as ozone, generated by the second ion generating assembly 362. For example, the second discharge rule may be a relationship between discharge time and ozone concentration.

[0113] In this way, not only can the concentration of strong oxidizing substances be kept below a preset threshold, thus preventing the user from being affected by excessive concentrations of strong oxidizing substances such as ozone, thereby ensuring sterilization without the user's awareness, but it can also prevent excessive concentrations of strong oxidizing ions from affecting the freshness of food in the box 1. The preset threshold is set according to the user's perception level.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first catalytic assembly 363 further includes a third ion circuit. The power supply 37 provides voltage to the first electrode plate 3632 and the second electrode plate 3633 through the third ion circuit. The controller 6 controls the voltage of the power supply 37 according to a third discharge rule, thereby controlling the amount of strong oxidizing ions generated by the first catalytic assembly 363. For example, the third discharge rule may be a relationship between the operating time of the first catalytic assembly 363 and the amount of strong oxidizing ions.

[0115] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 1 , refrigerator 100 further includes an image capture device 5 installed within housing 1 . Image capture device 5 is configured to capture images of food within the compartment and transmit the images to controller 6 . Controller 6 is coupled to image capture device 5 to obtain images of the food within the compartment and, based on the received images, to determine whether the quantity of food within the compartment has changed, as well as the current quantity and type of food within the compartment. This allows the refrigerator 100 to perform sterilization and odor removal operations. For example, image capture device 5 may be a camera.

[0116] In some embodiments, the image acquisition device 5 can be installed on the inner tank 12 and located at the top of the refrigerator compartment near the door 2 to completely capture the image of the food in the box 1.

[0117] It should be noted that the controller 6 can perform image recognition on the images captured by the image acquisition device 5, and distinguish and select each object to obtain the quantity and quantity change information of the food. The controller 6 can also compare the recognized objects with the internally stored food database to obtain the type of food.

[0118] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 2 , refrigerator 100 further includes a first sensor 9 mounted on door 2 or refrigerator body 1 . First sensor 9 is configured to detect the state of door 2 and transmit a door opening signal or a door closing signal to controller 6 . Controller 6 is coupled to first sensor 9 to detect the open or closed state of door 2. For example, first sensor 9 is a door closing detection sensor.

[0119] It is understandable that during the door opening process, new bacteria may be introduced into the cabinet 1. For example, floating bacteria in the air, or attached bacteria on the surface of food. The controller 6 is configured to determine whether to turn on the first ion generating component 361 or the second ion generating component 362 according to the main type of bacteria newly introduced into the cabinet 1. If it is determined that the main type of newly introduced bacteria is floating bacteria, the first ion generating component 361 is turned on. If it is determined that the main type of newly introduced bacteria is attached bacteria, the second ion generating component 362 is turned on. In this way, precise sterilization is achieved and the energy consumption of the refrigerator 100 is reduced.

[0120] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to, upon receiving a door closing signal from the first sensor 9, acquire an image captured by the image acquisition device 5 and, based on the image of the food, determine whether the amount of food in the compartment has changed. If the amount of food in the compartment has increased, the bacteria introduced into the cabinet 1 are determined to be attached bacteria, and the second ion generating assembly 362 is activated to remove the attached bacteria. If the amount of food in the compartment remains unchanged or decreases, the newly introduced bacteria are determined to be floating bacteria, and the first ion generating assembly 361 is activated to remove the floating bacteria.

[0121] It should be noted that in some embodiments of the present disclosure, controller 6 acquires images captured by image acquisition device 5 after receiving the door closing signal from first sensor 9. This ensures that chamber 1 remains sealed during the sterilization process, effectively preventing the introduction of new bacteria. Furthermore, this approach eliminates the need to periodically acquire images of the food inside the chamber, reducing the operating frequency of image acquisition device 5.

[0122] In other embodiments, the controller 6 may first acquire images of the food in the compartment with the door open to determine the main types of bacteria newly introduced into the compartment. Then, after receiving the door closing signal, targeted sterilization is immediately performed. Although this method requires periodic acquisition of images of the food in the compartment, which increases the hardware requirements, it accelerates the sterilization process by starting the sterilization node in advance.

[0123] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to send an alarm signal (e.g., sound, light, or text signal) to the user if the cabinet 1 is open for longer than a preset time, thereby reminding the user to close the door 2. Alternatively, the controller 6 is configured to automatically control the closing of the door 2 by connecting a mechanical structure to the controller 6. This avoids affecting the operation of the second ion generating assembly 362 or the first ion generating assembly 361.

[0124] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to: upon receiving a door opening signal from the first sensor 9, begin recording the door opening time of the refrigerator 100; upon receiving a door closing signal from the first sensor 9, obtain the door opening time of the refrigerator 100. If the door opening time of the refrigerator 100 is greater than or equal to a preset door opening time, the first ion generating assembly 371 is activated to remove floating bacteria in the refrigerator.

[0125] Afterwards, if it is determined that the amount of food in the room has increased, it is determined that both airborne bacteria and bacteria attached to the surface of the food have been introduced into the box 1. At this time, the controller 6 receives a preset sterilization signal and turns on the preset sterilization mode. In the preset sterilization mode, the controller 6 turns on the first ion generating component 361 and the second ion generating component 362.

[0126] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is coupled to the first fan 34 and is further configured to: if it is determined that the preset sterilization mode is currently in effect, turn on the first fan 34 to accelerate the air flow rate in the box 1 , and turn off the first fan 34 after a preset working time.

[0127] In some embodiments, it can also be set that if the second ion generating component 362 or the first ion generating component 361 starts to work, the first fan 34 is turned on to speed up the sterilization efficiency.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the operating time of the first ion generating assembly 361 and the second ion generating assembly 362 is related to the amount of food and the opening time of the cabinet 1. For example, within a certain range, the longer the door is open, the longer the operating time of the first ion generating assembly 361. The more food is added, the longer the operating time of the second ion generating assembly 362.

[0129] In some embodiments, the operating time of the first and second ion generating assemblies 361 and 362 is also related to the type of food. If the food is perishable, the operating time of the first and second ion generating assemblies 361 and 362 is increased. For example, perishable food includes strawberries and cherries.

[0130] Understandably, perishable food is generally considered to be food that is susceptible to temperature and humidity changes during storage, resulting in the death or spoilage of animal foods and the rot, mold, and other quality issues of plant foods. Animal food includes shrimp, crab, lugworms, live frozen shellfish, fresh fish, livestock and poultry meat, and processed foods. Plant food includes flowers, fruits, vegetables, fungi, as well as frozen pasta, eggs, and dairy products.

[0131] It is understandable that the above-mentioned influencing factors can be superimposed to affect the working time of the ion generating device 36.

[0132] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to determine the type of food within the housing 1 based on the food image captured by the image capture device 5. If the food is on a preset food list, the controller 6 determines that the ion generator 36 operates for a preset operating time and at a preset operating voltage. The controller 6 then turns on the ion generator 36, turns on the first fan 34, and adjusts the voltage output by the power supply 37 to the preset operating voltage to increase the number of ions emitted by the ion generator 36. The ion generator 36 then turns off after operating for the preset operating time.

[0133] It should be noted that the preset ingredient list includes the perishable ingredients in the preset ingredient list and the ingredients can be selected according to the characteristics of the ingredients themselves. The preset ingredient list can be pre-stored in the controller 6 or can be entered in advance by the user.

[0134] In this way, the working time and working voltage of the ion generator 36 are adjusted according to the type of food. In the presence of perishable food, increasing the working voltage and working time of the ion generator 36 can improve the sterilization effect and extend the shelf life of the food.

[0135] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 1 , refrigerator 100 further includes a second sensor 4 configured to detect the concentration of odor within refrigerator housing 1 . Second sensor 4 is mounted within refrigerator housing 1 . For example, second sensor 4 is mounted within second air duct 13 to detect the concentration of odor released by the refrigeration system during the defrost process. The odor concentration signal is transmitted to controller 6 . Controller 6 is coupled to second sensor 4 to detect the odor concentration within refrigerator housing 1 , and activates first catalytic assembly 363 to remove the odor. For example, second sensor 4 is an odor detection sensor.

[0136] It should be noted that the odor concentration is the concentration of odor molecules in the air in the box 1. Odor molecules include sulfur compounds, some nitrogen oxides, etc.

[0137] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to obtain the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 after receiving the door closing signal sent by the first sensor 9.

[0138] If it is determined that the odor concentration is at the third level, it is determined that the odor concentration in the box body 1 is low at this time, and the first catalytic component 363 is controlled to remain closed.

[0139] If it is determined that the odor concentration is at the second level, the power supply 37 starts to supply power, turns on the first catalytic component 363, turns on the first fan 34, and controls the first fan 34 to operate at a first preset speed.

[0140] If the odor concentration is at the first level, the rotation speed of the first fan 34 is increased to a second preset rotation speed that is greater than the first preset rotation speed.

[0141] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the odor concentration within refrigerator 100 is divided into three levels, from high to low, corresponding to the user's olfactory perception of odors. The first fan 34 can operate at two speeds: a first speed and a second speed. This allows for on-demand odor removal, improving both speed and efficiency, while also preventing the generation of excessive amounts of strong oxidizing substances that could affect food freshness.

[0142] For example, the first gear is when the odor concentration is less than the lower limit of the first preset concentration range, the second gear is when the odor concentration is greater than or equal to the lower limit of the first preset concentration range, and the third gear is when the odor concentration is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the first preset concentration range, or the lower limit of the second preset concentration range. The lower limit of the second preset concentration range is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the first preset concentration range.

[0143] It is understandable that the odor concentration level can also be set as needed to more accurately control the working status of the first fan 34, the second fan 14 and each ion generating device 36 to achieve accurate sterilization and deodorization in different scenarios.

[0144] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 further includes a second fan 14, which is disposed in the second air duct 13. The second fan 14 is configured to accelerate the air flow throughout the second air duct 13 and the housing 1, thereby accelerating heat exchange between the air in the second air duct 13 and the housing 1 and further improving the sterilization and deodorization efficiency.

[0145] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is coupled to the second fan 14. The controller 6 is further configured to: if the odor concentration is at the third level, keep the second fan 14 off; if the odor concentration is at the second level, turn the second fan 14 on and control it to operate at a third operating speed; and if the odor concentration is at the first level, increase the speed of the second fan 14 to a fourth predetermined speed. The fourth predetermined speed is greater than the third predetermined speed.

[0146] In some other embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to: keep the second fan 14 off if the odor concentration is at the third level or the second level, and turn on the second fan 14 if the odor concentration is at the first level.

[0147] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to: turn on the second fan 14 in the preset sterilization mode.

[0148] In some embodiments, to reduce energy consumption, refrigerator 100 is also configured with an energy-saving mode. In energy-saving mode, refrigerator 100 consumes less energy than in cooling mode. Controller 6 is further configured to obtain image information of food items captured by image acquisition device 5. If the food items meet energy-saving conditions, it is determined that the amount of food items stored in refrigerator 100 is small, and energy-saving mode is activated. In energy-saving mode, second sensor 4 is inactive. For example, the energy-saving condition may be that the amount of food items is less than a preset value.

[0149] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to: in energy-saving mode, if it is determined that the amount of food in the box 1 increases, turn on the second sensor 4, or, if it is determined that the amount of food in the box 1 increases to be greater than a preset value, turn on the second sensor 4.

[0150] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to obtain the length of time the first ion generating assembly 361 has been in the shutdown state before turning on the first ion generating assembly 361. If the length of time the first ion generating assembly 361 has been in the shutdown state is less than a first preset shutdown time, the controller 6 waits until the shutdown time of the first ion generating assembly 361 is equal to or greater than the first preset shutdown time before turning on the first ion generating assembly 361. For example, the first preset shutdown time is 20 minutes.

[0151] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to obtain the length of time the second ion generating assembly 362 has been in the shutdown state before turning on the second ion generating assembly 362. If the length of time the second ion generating assembly 362 has been in the shutdown state is less than a second preset shutdown time, the controller 6 waits until the second ion generating assembly 362 has been in the shutdown state for a period equal to or greater than the second preset shutdown time before turning on the second ion generating assembly 362. For example, the second preset shutdown time is 20 minutes.

[0152] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to obtain the length of time the first catalytic component 363 has been in the shutdown state before turning on the first catalytic component 363. If the length of time the first catalytic component 363 has been in the shutdown state is less than a third preset shutdown time, the controller 6 waits until the length of time the first catalytic component 363 has been in the shutdown state is equal to or greater than the third preset shutdown time before turning on the first catalytic component 363. For example, the third preset shutdown time is 30 minutes.

[0153] In this way, it is avoided that the ion generating device is turned on multiple times in a short period of time, which would cause the ion concentration to be too high.

[0154] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to obtain the open / closed state of the refrigerator body 1 before activating the first ion generating assembly 361, the second ion generating assembly 362, or the first catalytic assembly 363. If the refrigerator body 1 is in the closed state, the controller 6 activates the first ion generating assembly 361, the second ion generating assembly 362, or the first catalytic assembly 363 according to a preset control program. In this way, sterilization and odor removal are performed in a closed state, ensuring the sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator 100.

[0155] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system operates periodically to maintain cooling requirements within refrigerator 100. During operation, frost may form on the evaporator, reducing the overall cooling capacity of the refrigeration system. Therefore, refrigerator 100 also features a defrost mode that removes frost from the evaporator surface using a heating element.

[0156] It can be understood that if the ambient temperature reaches the preset low temperature condition, it means that the refrigeration pressure of the refrigeration system is small, the start-up and shutdown ratio is low, and the frosting speed is slow. This means that during the frosting process, odor molecules and bacteria in the air can be slowly and fully frozen in the frost.

[0157] At this time, during the defrosting process, the refrigerator 100 may produce free floating bacteria, attached bacteria attached to the inner wall and odor molecules, which will affect the air quality inside the refrigerator 100 and the storage time of the food in the box 1. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the above bacteria and odor molecules.

[0158] In some embodiments, the controller 6 is further configured to: if the ambient temperature is less than or equal to a preset temperature, turn on the ion generating device 36 to pre-generate ion clusters before the refrigerator 100 runs the defrost mode.

[0159] During the defrost mode of the refrigerator 100, the ion generating device 36 is always in operation to continuously generate ion groups, replenish consumed ions, and remove odor molecules and bacteria diffused into the cabinet 1 during the defrost process.

[0160] After the defrost mode ends, if the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 5 reaches the end-of-work condition, it is determined that the odor concentration of the cabinet 1 has reached the standard, and the ion generating device 36 can be turned off.

[0161] Since it takes time for the ion generator 36 to generate ion clusters, turning it on in advance can prevent bacteria and odor molecules from spreading before the ion clusters are generated, thereby improving the sterilization and odor removal effect.

[0162] It should be noted that, when the refrigerator 100 is operating in the defrost mode, the controller 6 turns on at least one of the first catalytic component 363, the first ion generating component 361 and the second ion generating component 362 to achieve comprehensive and efficient sterilization and deodorization.

[0163] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the operating voltage and operating time of the first catalytic component 363, the first ion generating component 361 and the second ion generating component 362 can be determined according to the odor concentration and the operating time of the defrost mode.

[0164] Some embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a method for controlling a refrigerator 100. The method can sterilize or remove odor from the refrigerator 100. Referring to FIG. 13 , the method includes steps S1101 to S1111 to remove odor from the refrigerator 100.

[0165] S1101 , detecting the odor concentration in the refrigeration chamber of the cabinet 1 through the second sensor 4 .

[0166] S1102: Determine whether the odor concentration meets the first level. If yes, execute S1103. If no, execute S1106.

[0167] S1103, determine whether the box 1 is still in the closed state. If so, execute S1104. If not, continue to execute S1103.

[0168] S1104, turning on the first catalytic component 363, turning on the first fan 34 and controlling the first fan 34 to run at a first preset speed to remove odor quickly and efficiently.

[0169] S1105: Determine whether the odor concentration meets the second level. If yes, execute S1108. If no, continue to execute S1105.

[0170] S1106: Determine whether the odor concentration meets the second level. If yes, execute S1107. If no, execute S11010.

[0171] S1107, determine whether the box 1 is still in the closed state. If so, execute S1108. If not, continue to execute S1107.

[0172] S1108 , turning on the first catalytic component 363 , turning on the first fan 34 and controlling the first fan 34 to run at a second preset speed.

[0173] S1109: Determine whether the odor concentration meets the third level. If yes, execute S1111. If no, continue to execute S1109.

[0174] S1110: Determine that the odor concentration meets the third level, and continue to execute S1111.

[0175] S1111 , turn off the first catalytic assembly 363 and turn off the first fan 34 .

[0176] It is understood that during the deodorization process of the refrigerator 100, if the door 2 of the refrigerator 100 is opened, the first catalytic component 363 is turned off, and the first fan 34 and the second fan 14 are turned off. In this way, the sealing of the compartment is ensured during the deodorization process.

[0177] 14 , the method includes steps S1201 to S1213 to sterilize the refrigerator 100 .

[0178] S1201: When the refrigerator 100 opens its door, the image acquisition device 5 detects whether new food has been put into the refrigerator. If not, then S1202 is executed. If so, then S1208 is executed.

[0179] S1202 , determining that the main contaminating bacteria newly introduced into the refrigerator 100 are airborne bacteria introduced due to opening the door of the refrigerator 100 .

[0180] S1203, determine whether the box 1 is in the closed state. If so, execute S1204. If not, execute S1207,

[0181] S1204: Determine whether the downtime of the first ion generating assembly 361 is greater than or equal to a preset time. If so, execute S1205. If not, execute S1204.

[0182] S1205, turn on the first ion generating assembly 361 and turn on the first fan 34.

[0183] S1206: Determine whether the operating time of the first ion generating component 361 is greater than or equal to the second preset time. If so, execute S1207. If not, execute S1206.

[0184] S1207, turn off the first ion generating assembly 361 and turn off the first fan 34.

[0185] S1208 , determining that the main contaminating bacteria newly introduced into the refrigerator 100 are attached bacteria introduced due to opening the door of the refrigerator 100 .

[0186] S1209: Determine whether the cabinet 1 is in the closed state. If so, execute S1209. If not, continue to execute S1209.

[0187] S1210: Determine whether the downtime of the second ion generating assembly 362 reaches the third preset time. If yes, execute S1211. If no, execute S1210.

[0188] S1211, turn on the second ion generating assembly 362 and turn on the first fan 34.

[0189] S1212: Determine whether the operating time of the second ion generating assembly 362 reaches the fourth preset time. If so, execute S1213. If not, execute S1212.

[0190] S1213, turn off the second ion generating assembly 362 and turn off the first fan 34.

[0191] For example, the first preset duration is 30 minutes or 60 minutes. The second preset duration is 5 minutes or 10 minutes. By setting the first preset duration, it is possible to avoid repeatedly starting the second ion circuit of the first ion generating component 361 in a short period of time, thereby avoiding energy waste. By setting the second preset duration, it is possible to avoid the second ion circuit of the first ion generating component 361 from continuously operating for a long time, thereby avoiding energy waste.

[0192] For example, the third preset duration is 30 minutes or 60 minutes. The fourth preset duration is 5 minutes or 10 minutes. Setting the third preset duration can prevent repeated activation of the second ion circuit of the second ion generating assembly 362 within a short period of time, thereby avoiding energy waste. Setting the preset duration can prevent the ion circuit of the second ion generating assembly 362 from continuously operating for extended periods of time, thereby avoiding energy waste and excessive ozone levels.

[0193] It is understandable that during the sterilization process, if the controller 6 receives a door opening signal, the second ion generating assembly 362 is closed and the first fan 34 is stopped. In this way, the sealing of the compartment is ensured, thereby ensuring the sterilization effect.

[0194] In some embodiments, if the door opening time of the refrigerator 100 is greater than the preset door opening time, the first ion generating assembly is turned on. Referring to Figure 15 , before S1201 , the control method of the refrigerator 100 further includes S1214 to S1215 .

[0195] S1214, receiving the door opening signal sent by the first sensor 9.

[0196] S1215: Start recording the door opening time of the refrigerator 100. Then execute S1201. If new food is put into the refrigerator 100, execute S1209.

[0197] In S1209 , if the box 1 is in the open state, S1216 to S1218 are executed.

[0198] S1216: Determine whether the door opening time of the refrigerator 100 is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time. If so, execute S1217. If not, execute S1218.

[0199] S1217, turn on the first ion generating assembly 361 and the first fan 34. It is understandable that the first ion generating assembly 361 can be turned off after running for the second preset working time, or turned off when the housing 1 is in the closed state.

[0200] S1218: Keep the first ion generating assembly 361 closed. Then, the process may continue with S1209.

[0201] In this way, when the amount of food in the box 1 increases, if the door opening time is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time, the first ion generating component 361 and the first fan 34 are turned on, which is beneficial to remove the floating bacteria in the box 1 and improve the sterilization effect.

[0202] In some embodiments, when the amount of food in the box 1 decreases or remains unchanged, if the door opening time is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time, the speed of the first fan 34 can be increased to speed up the air flow rate, and the voltage of the first ion circuit of the first ion generating component 361 can be increased to increase the ion concentration, thereby improving the sterilization efficiency.

[0203] 16 , the control method of the refrigerator 100 includes steps S1501 to S1513 to further provide a sterilization effect.

[0204] S1501, receiving the door opening signal sent by the first sensor 9.

[0205] S1502, start recording the door opening time of the refrigerator 100.

[0206] S1503: Determine whether the cabinet 1 is in the closed state. If so, execute S1504. If not, continue to execute S1502.

[0207] S1504, obtaining the door opening time of the refrigerator 100 and the image captured by the image acquisition device 5.

[0208] S1505: Determine whether new food is put into the refrigerator 100. If not, execute S1506. If yes, execute S1510.

[0209] S1506 , determining that the main contaminating bacteria newly introduced into the refrigerator 100 are floating bacteria introduced due to opening the door of the refrigerator 100 , turning on the first ion generating assembly 361 , and turning on the first fan 34 .

[0210] S1507: Determine whether the door opening time of the refrigerator 100 is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time. If so, execute S1509. If not, execute S1508.

[0211] S1508, controlling the first fan 34 and the first ion generating assembly 361 to maintain the current working state.

[0212] S1509, increase the voltage supplied by the power supply 37 to the first ion generating assembly 361 and increase the rotation speed of the first fan 34.

[0213] S1510, determining that the main contaminating bacteria newly introduced into the refrigerator 100 are attached bacteria introduced due to opening the door of the refrigerator 100, turning on the second ion generating component 362, and turning on the first fan 34.

[0214] S1511: Determine whether the refrigerator door opening time is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time. If so, execute S1513. If not, execute S1512.

[0215] S1512, turn on the first ion generating assembly 361 and turn on the first fan 34.

[0216] S1513, keep the first ion generating assembly 361 closed.

[0217] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 can adjust the working time and working voltage of the ion generating device 36 according to the type of food. Referring to FIG. 17 , the control method of the refrigerator 100 includes S1601 to S1605.

[0218] S1601: Receive image information collected by the image collection device 5.

[0219] S1602: Identify the type of food based on the image information.

[0220] S1603, determine whether the ingredients are in the preset ingredient list. If so, execute S1604. If not, execute S1605.

[0221] S1604, turn on the ion generating device 36, turn on the first fan 34, adjust the corresponding output voltage of the power supply 37 to the second preset voltage to increase the number of ions generated by the ion generating device 36, and turn off the ion generating device 36 after working for the fifth preset time.

[0222] S1605, turning on the ion generating device 36, turning on the first fan 34, adjusting the corresponding output voltage of the power supply 37 to the first preset voltage, and then turning off the ion generating device 36 after working for the sixth preset time.

[0223] It should be noted that the second preset voltage is greater than the first preset voltage, and the sixth preset time length is greater than the fifth preset time length.

[0224] In this way, accurate sterilization can be achieved according to the type of food, avoiding the rotting of perishable food due to inadequate sterilization, or excessive energy consumption due to excessive sterilization of non-perishable food.

[0225] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 19 , in S1201 , if it is determined that new food is placed in the refrigerator 100 , S1601 to S1605 are executed.

[0226] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 has an energy-saving mode to further reduce energy consumption of the refrigerator 100. Referring to Fig. 18 , the control method of the refrigerator 100 in the energy-saving mode includes S1701 to S1705.

[0227] S1701: Receive image information collected by the image collection device 5.

[0228] S1702: Identify the quantity of ingredients based on the image information.

[0229] S1703: Determine whether the food meets the energy-saving conditions. If yes, execute S1704. If no, execute S1705.

[0230] S1704, the refrigerator 100 enters the energy-saving mode and turns off the second sensor 4.

[0231] S1705: Keep the second sensor 4 turned on.

[0232] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 can adjust the speed of the first fan 34 according to the odor concentration to increase the odor removal efficiency. Referring to Figure 20 , the method includes S1801 to S1806.

[0233] S1801, receiving a door closing signal from the first sensor 9.

[0234] S1802: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the lower limit of the first preset range. If so, execute S1803. If not, execute S1804.

[0235] S1803: Turn on the first fan 34 and control the first fan 34 to run at a fifth preset speed.

[0236] S1804: Keep the first fan 34 turned off.

[0237] S1805: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is less than the lower limit of the first preset range. If so, execute S1806. If not, execute S1803.

[0238] S1806, turn off the first fan 34.

[0239] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 100 can adjust the rotation speeds of the first fan 34 and the second fan 14 according to the odor concentration to further improve the sterilization efficiency. Referring to Figure 21, the method includes S1901 to S1910.

[0240] S1901, receiving a door closing signal from the first sensor 9.

[0241] S1902: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the lower limit of the second preset range. If so, execute S1903. If not, execute S1904.

[0242] S1903, turn on the first fan 34 and the second fan 14.

[0243] S1904: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the lower limit of the first preset range. If so, execute S1909. If not, execute S1910.

[0244] S1905: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is less than the lower limit of the first preset range. If so, execute S1906. If not, execute S1908.

[0245] S1906, turn off the first fan 34.

[0246] S1907: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the first preset range. If so, execute S1908. If not, execute S1907.

[0247] S1908, turn off the second fan 14 and keep the first fan 34 on.

[0248] S1909, turn on the first fan 34.

[0249] S1910: Keep the first fan 34 turned off.

[0250] It is understandable that the odor concentration can also be divided according to actual needs to adjust the rotation speed of the first fan and the second fan 14 as needed.

[0251] 22 , in the defrost mode, the control method of the refrigerator 100 includes steps S1001 to S1005 to remove bacteria and odor molecules released during the defrost process.

[0252] S1001, turning on the ion generator before the refrigerator runs in defrost mode.

[0253] S1002, the refrigerator operates in defrost mode.

[0254] S1003: Determine whether the defrost mode of the refrigerator has ended. If so, execute S1004. If not, execute S1002.

[0255] S1004: Determine whether the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 reaches the end-of-operation condition. If so, execute S1005. If not, execute S1004.

[0256] S1005, turn off the ion generating device 36.

[0257] It should be noted that the working condition can be that within a preset time period, the odor concentration detected by the second sensor 4 is below a first preset concentration range.

[0258] In some embodiments, during the defrosting process, the refrigerator 100 controls the rotation speed of the first fan 34 according to the odor concentration. Referring to Figure 23 , after S1002 , the refrigerator 100 continues to perform S1801 to S1806 .

[0259] In some embodiments, during the defrosting process, the refrigerator 100 controls the rotation speeds of the first fan 34 and the second fan 14 according to the odor concentration. Referring to Figure 24 , after S1002 , the refrigerator 100 continues to execute S1901 to S1910 .

[0260] In this way, the refrigerator 100 turns on the ion generator 36 before defrosting, and controls the operation of the first fan 34 and the second fan 14 according to the odor concentration during the defrosting process. When the working end conditions are met, the ion generator 36 is controlled to turn off, achieving a full sterilization and odor removal operation before, during, and after defrosting, which can prevent odor molecules and bacteria generated during the defrosting process from affecting the preservation of food inside the cabinet 1.

[0261] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the refrigerator 100 includes a controller 6, as well as a first sensor 9, a second sensor 4, an image acquisition device 5, a first ion generating assembly 361, a second ion generating assembly 362, a first catalytic assembly 363, a third sensor 8, a first fan 34, and a second fan 14 coupled to the controller 6. The controller 6 is capable of receiving information about the ambient temperature outside the refrigerator, the odor concentration and food image within the refrigerator body 1, and a door opening / closing signal of the door body 2, to control the first ion generating assembly 361, the second ion generating assembly 362, the first catalytic assembly 363, the first fan 34, and the second fan 14 to perform sterilization and odor removal. This can achieve on-demand odor removal and sterilization to reduce the energy consumption of the refrigerator 100 and prevent the generation of excessive ions that affect the food preservation effect.

[0262] 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 invention. The scope of the present invention is limited by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: Box; A door body, configured to open or close the box body; An image acquisition device is disposed inside the box, and is configured to acquire images to identify whether the amount of food in the box has changed; A first sensor is provided at one of the box body and the door body and is configured to detect a switch state of the door body; A cleaning device is disposed in the box, and the cleaning device comprises: A first ion generating component is configured to remove floating bacteria in the air in the box by using positive and negative ion groups generated by itself; and The second ion generating component is configured to remove bacteria attached to the inner wall of the box and the surface of the food by using the strong oxidizing ion group generated by itself; and A controller, the controller being configured to: After receiving the door closing signal sent by the first sensor, receiving the image captured by the image acquisition device, and determining whether to add food to the food storage area according to the image; If it is determined that the food storage area has increased, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box is attached bacteria, and the second ion generating component is turned on; If it is determined that the food in the food storage area remains unchanged or decreases, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box is planktonic bacteria, and the first ion generating component is turned on.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The cleaning device also includes: A first shell, wherein the first shell has an air inlet and an air outlet; a first fan, disposed in the first housing and located on a side close to the air inlet; the first fan is configured to accelerate the flow of air in the first housing; Wherein, the first ion generating assembly and the second ion generating assembly are installed in the first housing and are arranged on a side of the first fan close to the air outlet to accelerate the release of the ion group; The controller is also configured to: If a preset sterilization signal is received, turning on the first fan to accelerate the flow of gas inside the first shell; After a preset working time, the first fan is turned off, and the second ion generating component or the first ion generating component in operation is turned off.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein: The controller is also configured to: After receiving the door opening signal sent by the first sensor, start calculating the door opening time of the refrigerator; After receiving the door closing signal sent by the first sensor, if it is determined that the door opening time of the refrigerator is greater than or equal to the preset door opening time, the first fan and the first ion generating component are turned on to remove floating bacteria in the box.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The cleaning device further includes a power source configured to provide a voltage to discharge at least one of the second ion generating component or the first ion generating component to form an ion group.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein: The first ion generating component comprises: a first electrode, disposed on a side of the first fan close to the air outlet; and a second electrode, disposed on a side of the first fan close to the air outlet, the second electrode and the first electrode being arranged along a length direction of the first shell; The first electrode and the second electrode are configured to form a positive ion group and a negative ion group using the voltage provided by the power supply to remove floating bacteria in the box.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The first housing comprises: A first sub-shell, disposed toward the food storage area inside the compartment, wherein the air inlet is located in the first sub-shell; and A second sub-shell connected to the inner wall of the box, the second sub-shell being connected to the first sub-shell; The second ion generating assembly comprises: An emitting electrode assembly, the emitting electrode assembly comprising: a bracket, detachably fixed in the first shell; and Counter electrodes, disposed at two ends of the support and configured to release the voltage provided by the power source to form an electric field; and a needle tip, the needle tip being located on a side of the emitting electrode assembly close to the first sub-shell and disposed on a side of the first fan close to the air outlet; The emitting electrode assembly is configured to utilize the voltage provided by the power supply to cause the needle tip to perform corona discharge to form a strong oxidizing ion group to remove attached bacteria in the box.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Identifying the type of food in the box according to the image of the food storage area captured by the image capture device; If the food is in the preset food list, the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and the first fan are turned on, and the corresponding output voltage of the power supply is adjusted to the preset working voltage to increase the number of ions in the box; After the preset working time has passed, the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and the first fan are controlled to be turned off.

8. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Before turning on the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and one of the first fan, obtaining the switch state of the housing; If it is determined that the housing is in an open state, the first ion generating assembly, the second ion generating assembly and the first fan are controlled to remain closed; If it is determined that the housing is in a closed state, one of the first ion generating assembly, the second ion generating assembly and the first fan is controlled to be turned on.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Before starting one of the first ion generating component and the second ion generating component, determining whether the time for which the ion generating component to be started is in a shutdown state is greater than or equal to a corresponding preset shutdown time; If it is determined that the time that the ion generating component to be turned on is in the shutdown state is less than the corresponding preset shutdown time, wait until the time that the ion generating component to be turned on is in the shutdown state is greater than or equal to the corresponding preset shutdown time before turning it on.

10. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein: The controller is also configured to: During the operation of one of the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and the first fan, if it is determined that the first sensor sends a door opening signal, the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and the first fan are controlled to be closed.

11. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein: The controller is further configured to adjust the working time of the first ion generating component, the second ion generating component and the first fan according to the type and quantity of the food and the opening time of the box.

12. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein: The box body comprises: An inner tank having a storage space formed therein; and A second shell body connected to the outer side of the inner tank; The refrigerator further includes a second sensor disposed between the inner container and the second shell and configured to detect the concentration of odor in the box; The cleaning device further comprises a first catalytic component disposed in the first housing, wherein the first catalytic component is configured to remove odor molecules in the housing by using ion groups generated by the first catalytic component; The controller is also configured to: Acquiring the odor concentration detected by the second sensor; If the odor concentration is greater than a lower limit of a first preset concentration range, turning on the first catalytic component and the first fan; Wherein, the airflow in the box body passes through the surface of the first catalytic component under the action of the first fan to remove odor molecules in the airflow.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 12, further comprising a second fan disposed between the inner container and the second shell and configured to accelerate the flow of gas between the inner container and the second shell; The controller is also configured to: Acquiring the odor concentration detected by the second sensor; If the odor concentration is greater than the lower limit of the first preset concentration range, the first catalytic component, the first fan and the second fan are turned on, and the first fan is controlled to operate at a first preset speed, and the second fan is controlled to operate at a third preset speed; If the odor concentration detected by the second sensor is greater than or equal to the lower limit of the second preset concentration range, the rotation speed of the first fan is increased to the second preset rotation speed, and the rotation speed of the second fan is increased to the fourth preset rotation speed; in, The lower limit value of the second preset concentration range is greater than the upper limit value of the first preset concentration range; The second preset speed is greater than the first preset speed; and the fourth preset speed is greater than the third preset speed.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The first catalytic component comprises: a first electrode plate; a second electrode plate, disposed on a side of the first electrode plate close to the first fan; A substrate, the substrate is disposed between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, and the substrate is provided with a plurality of through holes along the direction of air flow; and A photocatalyst layer is wrapped around the outer surface of the substrate, and the airflow from the first fan flows through the photocatalyst layer.

15. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Before turning on the first catalytic component, obtaining the switch state of the box; If it is determined that the box is in an open state, controlling the first catalytic component to remain closed; If it is determined that the box is in a closed state, controlling the first catalytic component to open; During the operation of the first catalytic component, if the door opening signal sent by the first sensor is received, the first catalytic component is controlled to be closed.

16. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Before starting the first catalytic component, determining whether the first catalytic component is greater than or equal to a corresponding preset downtime; If it is determined that the time that the first catalytic component is in the shutdown state is less than the corresponding preset shutdown time, wait until the time that the first catalytic component is in the shutdown state is greater than or equal to the corresponding preset shutdown time before starting.

17. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein: The controller is also configured to: Identifying the quantity of food in the box according to the image of the food storage area captured by the image capture device; If the amount of the food is less than the preset amount of food, the second sensor is turned off.

18. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a third sensor, which is disposed outside the box and is configured to detect the temperature of the environment in which the refrigerator is located; The cleaning device further comprises a first catalytic component, wherein the first catalytic component is configured to remove odor molecules in the box body by using ion groups generated by the first catalytic component; The controller is also configured to: If the temperature is within the preset temperature range, before the refrigerator operates in the defrost mode, at least one of the first catalytic component, the first ion generating component or the second ion generating component is turned on to pre-generate an ion group; During the defrosting mode of the refrigerator, at least one of the first catalytic component, the first ion generating component or the second ion generating component is kept in a working state to remove bacteria generated during the defrosting process; After the defrost mode ends, if the working end condition is met, the first catalytic component, the first ion generating component and the second ion generating component are turned off.

19. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein: The controller is also configured to adjust the working duration of the first catalytic component, the first ion generating component and the second ion generating component according to the odor concentration in the box and the running duration of the defrost mode.

20. A method for controlling a refrigerator, wherein: The refrigerator comprises: Box; A door body, configured to open or close the box body; An image acquisition device is disposed inside the box, and is configured to acquire images to identify whether the food in the box has changed; A first sensor is provided at one of the box body and the door body and is configured to detect the open / closed state of the door body; A second sensor is disposed in the box and is configured to detect the concentration of odor in the box; and A cleaning device, comprising: The first ion generating component is configured to remove floating bacteria in the air in the box by using the positive and negative ion groups generated by the first ion generating component; A second ion generating component is configured to remove bacteria attached to the inner wall of the box and the surface of the food by using the strong oxidizing ion group generated by itself; and A first catalytic component is configured to remove odor molecules in the box body by using ion groups generated by itself; The method comprises: After receiving the door closing signal sent by the first sensor, receiving the image captured by the image acquisition device, and determining whether to add food to the food storage area according to the image; If it is determined that the food storage area has increased, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box is attached bacteria, and the second ion generating component is turned on; If it is determined that the food in the food storage area remains unchanged or decreases, it is determined that the type of bacteria newly introduced into the box is floating bacteria, and the first ion generating component is turned on; The method further comprises: Acquiring the odor concentration detected by the second sensor; If the odor concentration is greater than a lower limit of a first preset concentration range, the first catalytic component is turned on to remove odor molecules in the box.

Images