Refrigerator

Abstract

According to the refrigerator, a vacuum drawer is arranged in a storage space, a pressure detection device is used for detecting the pressure in the vacuum drawer, and a vacuum pump is used for vacuumizing the vacuum drawer; the vacuum pumping process of the vacuum pump to the vacuum drawer comprises a first vacuum pumping stage and a second vacuum pumping stage; in the first vacuumizing stage, the vacuum pump vacuumizes the vacuum drawer in the normal pressure state, and when the pressure detection device detects that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold value a, the operation time of the vacuum pump is T1; in the second vacuumizing stage, the vacuum pump continues to run for T2 and then stops, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold value b; a is greater than b, and T2 is equal to (1-2) * T1, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a low-pressure environment required by food fresh-keeping storage, and the pressure control of the vacuum drawer is accurate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of refrigeration equipment, and in particular to a refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] A refrigerator disclosed in the related art features a vacuum drawer. A vacuum pump evacuates the drawer, utilizing the low-pressure environment within to enhance food storage and preservation. The vacuum pump maintains a fixed evacuation time. However, if the drawer is fully loaded and the fixed evacuation time is still used, the pressure inside the drawer may be too low, potentially causing deformation and damage.

[0003] The above information disclosed in this background technology is only used to increase the understanding of the background technology of this application. Therefore, it may contain information that does not constitute the prior art known to ordinary technicians in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In response to the problems pointed out in the background technology, the present invention provides a refrigerator with precise pressure control of a vacuum drawer.

[0005] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0006] In some embodiments of the present application, a refrigerator is provided, which includes a box body and a door body, a storage space is formed in the box body, and the door body is configured to close or open the storage space; a vacuum drawer is arranged in the storage space, a pressure detection device is used to detect the pressure in the vacuum drawer, and a vacuum pump is used to vacuum the vacuum drawer; the vacuum pump's vacuuming process of the vacuum drawer includes a first vacuuming stage and a second vacuuming stage; in the first vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump vacuums the vacuum drawer in a normal pressure state, and when the pressure detection device detects that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold a, the running time of the vacuum pump is T1; in the second vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump continues to run for T2 time and then stops, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold b; a>b, T2=(1~2)×T1, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches the low-pressure environment required for food preservation and storage.

[0007] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0008] During the first vacuuming phase, when the pressure inside the vacuum drawer reaches the preset pressure threshold a, the first vacuuming phase ends and the second vacuuming phase begins. During the first vacuuming phase, the vacuum pump operates for a time period of T1. During the second vacuuming phase, the vacuum pump continues to operate for a time period of T2 before automatically stopping. At this point, the pressure inside the vacuum drawer reaches the preset pressure threshold b, achieving the low-pressure environment required for low-pressure food preservation and storage.

[0009] In related art, the vacuum pump operates for a fixed time, T2, during the second vacuuming phase. However, if the vacuum drawer is heavily loaded or fully loaded, operating for the fixed time, T2, during the second vacuuming phase can result in excessively low pressure inside the drawer, which can easily cause deformation and damage.

[0010] To address this technical issue, the present application associates the operating time T2 of the vacuum pump during the second vacuuming phase with the operating time T1 of the vacuum pump during the first vacuuming phase, specifically T2 = (1-2) × T1. This allows the operating time of the vacuum pump during the second vacuuming phase to be flexible, preventing the vacuum drawer from experiencing excessively low pressure during the vacuuming process.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present application, the vacuum pump further comprises a pressure-maintaining stage during the vacuuming process of the vacuum drawer. The time taken for the pressure in the vacuum drawer to be released from a preset pressure threshold value b to a preset pressure threshold value a is t1. The vacuum pump vacuums the vacuum drawer so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer drops from the preset pressure threshold value a to the preset pressure threshold value b.

[0012] When t1≥preset interval time t0, in the pressure maintaining stage, the vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer for a time period t2, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer drops from a preset pressure threshold value a to a preset pressure threshold value b;

[0013] When t1<preset interval time t0, in the pressure maintaining stage, the vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer for a time period of (t2+Δt) to reduce the pressure in the vacuum drawer from a preset pressure threshold a to a preset pressure threshold b.

[0014] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0015] When t1 ≥ the preset interval time t0, it indicates that the vacuum drawer has good sealing performance. The vacuum pump then evacuates the drawer during the pressure-maintaining phase, causing the pressure inside the drawer to drop from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b. The vacuum pump then evacuates the drawer for the same time period t2 as during the first vacuuming phase. This ensures that the pressure inside the drawer reaches the preset desired pressure while preventing the drawer pressure from being too low due to prolonged vacuuming, or from being too high due to short vacuuming.

[0016] If t1 is less than the preset interval t0, the vacuum drawer's sealing performance is poor. During the pressure-maintaining phase, the vacuum pump evacuates the drawer to reduce the pressure inside the drawer from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b. The vacuum pump's evacuation time is appropriately extended by Δt based on t2. This allows the pressure inside the drawer to reach the preset desired pressure, preventing the drawer's pressure from exceeding the preset desired pressure due to a too-short evacuation time.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present application, Δt=n×ts, where ts is a system preset basic time value, n is the number of occurrences of t1 < preset interval time t0 in the pressure holding stage, and n is a positive integer.

[0018] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0019] During the pressure maintaining stage, after the vacuum pump restarts to evacuate the vacuum drawer, the vacuum drawer repeatedly releases pressure to the preset pressure within a preset interval time t0. When the vacuum pump restarts again, the working time is appropriately extended to ensure that the pressure in the vacuum drawer can reach the preset pressure value.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present application, n≥1 and n≤4.

[0021] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects: in the pressure maintaining stage, the longest working time of the vacuum pump after restarting is t2+4×ts, which prevents the vacuum pump from working for too long.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present application, the vacuum drawer includes a drawer frame, a drawer cavity with an open end is formed in the drawer frame, and a first interface is provided on a wall of the drawer frame;

[0023] The vacuum drawer comprises a drawer body, wherein the drawer body is configured to be drawn out and disposed in the drawer cavity through the opening;

[0024] The pressure detection device is connected to the first interface through a first pipeline. The pressure detection device is a mechanical pressure switch. The pressure detection device is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer is within a preset pressure range.

[0025] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0026] A first interface is provided on the wall of the drawer frame, and a pressure detection device is connected to the first interface via a first pipeline, thereby transmitting the gas pressure within the drawer cavity to the pressure detection device via the first pipeline. The pressure detection device is installed on the drawer frame as an independent electrical component. During refrigerator production, the pressure detection device can be tested first, and then a reliable pressure detection device can be connected to the first interface on the drawer frame via the first pipeline. This eliminates the need to first install the pressure detection device on the drawer frame and then test it, as in the background art. This improves refrigerator production efficiency.

[0027] The pressure detection device of the present application adopts a diaphragm mechanical pressure switch to avoid the influence of humidity in the vacuum drawer on the pressure detection device and improve the reliability of pressure detection.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present application, the vacuum pump is connected to the inner cavity of the vacuum drawer through a suction pipeline;

[0029] The pressure detection device is connected to the suction pipeline through a branch pipeline. The pressure detection device is a mechanical pressure switch. The pressure detection device is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer is within a preset pressure range.

[0030] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0031] In this case, a pressure detection device is connected to the suction line of the vacuum pump through a branch line, integrating the pressure detection device with the vacuum pump, which is conducive to modular production and manufacturing, unified docking and installation of wiring harnesses, and disassembly and assembly of the pressure detection device.

[0032] The vacuum pump and pressure detection device are integrated as a feeding module. During the refrigerator assembly process, the connection process between the pressure detection device and the suction pipeline is omitted, which helps to improve on-site assembly efficiency.

[0033] The vacuum pump and the pressure detection device are integrated, and the drawer frame only needs to be provided with an interface for connecting to the suction pipeline, and there is no need to provide an additional interface for the pressure detection device.

[0034] In some embodiments of the present application, a one-way valve is provided on the suction pipeline, and the branch pipeline is connected to the pipeline section between the one-way valve and the vacuum drawer.

[0035] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:

[0036] By installing a one-way valve on the suction line, you can effectively prevent external air from entering the vacuum chamber through the vacuum pump. Connecting the branch line to the first suction line helps improve the reliability of pressure detection.

[0037] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent after reading the detailed description of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative labor.

[0039] Figure 1 is a structural diagram of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 2 This is one of the schematic diagrams of a vacuuming process of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a second schematic diagram of a vacuuming process of a refrigerator according to some embodiments;

[0042] Figure 4 is a structural diagram of a vacuum drawer according to some embodiments;

[0043] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a vacuum drawer according to some embodiments;

[0044] Figure 6 is a structural diagram of a drawer frame according to some embodiments;

[0045] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a drawer frame according to some embodiments;

[0046] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0047] Figure 9 is another structural diagram of a vacuum drawer according to some embodiments;

[0048] Figure 10 is another structural diagram of a drawer frame according to some embodiments;

[0049] Figure 11 is a structural diagram of a vacuum pump and a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0050] Figure 12 is another structural diagram of a drawer frame according to some embodiments;

[0051] Figure 13 is another structural diagram of a vacuum pump and a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0052] Figure 14 is a front view of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0053] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0054] Figure 16 is an exploded view of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 17 is another structural diagram of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0056] Figure 18 is another cross-sectional view of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 19 FIG. 4 is another exploded view of a pressure detection device according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0059] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on this application.

[0060] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Therefore, a feature specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. Throughout this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0061] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed, removable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediary; and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0062] In the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or may include the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact via another feature between them. Furthermore, a first feature being "above," "above," and "above" a second feature may include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or may simply mean that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below," "below," and "below" a second feature may include the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or may simply mean that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0063] The disclosure below provides many different embodiments or examples for realizing different structures of the present invention. In order to simplify the disclosure of the present invention, the components and settings of specific examples are described below. Of course, they are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the present invention may repeat reference numbers and / or reference letters in different examples. Such repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself indicate the relationship between the various embodiments and / or settings discussed. In addition, the present invention provides examples of various specific processes and materials, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present application, a refrigerator is provided, referring to Figure 1 The refrigerator includes a box body 110. A storage space 130 is formed inside the box body 110.

[0065] The interior of the cabinet 110 is provided with multiple partitions, which divide the storage space 130 into multiple storage compartments. The multiple storage compartments are arranged vertically or horizontally. The storage space 130 can be used as a freezer, refrigerator, or temperature-controlled room to meet different storage requirements such as freezing, refrigeration, and temperature-controlled storage depending on the type of food.

[0066] A box liner 120 is provided in the box body 110, and a storage compartment is formed in the box liner 120. It is understandable that a plurality of box liners 120 are provided in the box body 110, and one or more storage compartments can be formed in each box liner 120.

[0067] The refrigerator further includes a door 140. The door 140 is connected to the housing 110 and is configured to close or open the storage space 130. For example, the door 140 is rotatably connected to the housing 110 via a hinge. The door 140 can rotate about a hinge axis to open and close the door 140, thereby opening or closing the storage space 130.

[0068] A plurality of door bodies 140 are provided, and the plurality of door bodies 140 are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of storage compartments.

[0069] The refrigerator also includes a refrigeration assembly. This assembly is used to provide cooling to the refrigerator interior, maintaining a low temperature environment within each storage compartment. The refrigeration assembly includes a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and throttling device. The specific structure and connection relationship of the refrigeration assembly can be referenced in related art refrigeration assemblies and will not be further described here.

[0070] The refrigerator further includes a vacuum drawer 200. The vacuum drawer 200 is provided in the storage space 130. For example, the vacuum drawer 200 is provided in a storage room serving as a refrigerating chamber. Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the vacuum drawer 200 viewed from the front. Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the vacuum drawer 200 viewed from the rear side. Figure 4 An exploded view of the vacuum drawer 200 is shown.

[0071] The vacuum drawer 200 includes a drawer frame 300 . Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of a vacuum drawer. Figure 5 An exploded view of a vacuum drawer. Figure 6 3 is a structural diagram of a drawer frame 300. A drawer cavity 350 with an open end 360 is formed in the drawer frame 300. For example, the drawer frame 300 has a rectangular structure, and the drawer cavity 350 is formed inside the drawer frame 300. The front end of the drawer frame 300 is open 360, and the front end opening 360 is connected to the drawer cavity 350.

[0072] The vacuum drawer 200 further includes a drawer body 320. The drawer body 320 is configured to be retracted and disposed within a drawer cavity 350 via an opening 360. When the drawer body 320 is placed into the drawer cavity 350 via the opening 360 at the front end of the drawer frame 300, the drawer cavity 350 is closed. When the drawer body 320 is pulled out of the opening 360 at the front end of the drawer frame 300, the drawer cavity 350 is opened.

[0073] The drawer body 320 is a rectangular box structure with an open top. A storage cavity 321 is formed within the drawer body 320. This cavity structure is open at the top. Food can be placed into or removed from the cavity 321 through the open top.

[0074] A drawer door 330 is provided at the front end of the drawer body 320. The drawer door 330 is used to push and pull the drawer body 320 so that the drawer body 320 can be pulled out and extended within the drawer frame 300. When the drawer body 320 is fully pushed into the drawer frame 300, the drawer door 330 seals against the peripheral edge of the front opening 360 of the drawer frame 300, thereby sealing the drawer cavity 350.

[0075] The refrigerator further includes a pressure detecting device 500 , which is configured to detect the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 . Figure 4 FIG. 5 is an installation position diagram of the pressure detection device 500. Figure 9 FIG. 5 is another installation position diagram of the pressure detection device 500 . Figures 14 to 16 is a structural diagram of a pressure detection device 500, Figures 17 to 19 This is another structural diagram of the pressure detection device 500.

[0076] The refrigerator also includes a vacuum pump 400. The vacuum pump 400 is configured to evacuate the vacuum drawer 200. When the drawer body 320 is fully inserted into the drawer frame 300, the drawer cavity 350 is sealed. The vacuum pump 400 then evacuates the sealed drawer cavity 350, reducing the pressure within the drawer cavity 350 to achieve low-pressure fresh-keeping storage for the food inside.

[0077] Reference Figure 2 The vacuum pump 400's vacuuming process for the vacuum drawer 200 includes a first vacuuming stage. During the first vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump 400 begins to vacuum the vacuum drawer 200, which is at normal pressure. When the pressure detection device 500 detects that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches a preset pressure threshold a, the vacuum pump 400 operates for a time period of T1.

[0078] The vacuum pump 400 vacuums the vacuum drawer 200 in a second vacuuming stage. In the second vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump 400 continues to operate for a time T2 and then stops, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches a preset pressure threshold b.

[0079] Among them, a>b, T2=(1~2)×T1.

[0080] Specifically, the vacuum pump 400 vacuum drawer 200 vacuuming process is divided into two stages, namely the first vacuuming stage and the second vacuuming stage. The first vacuuming stage is performed first, and then the second vacuuming stage is performed.

[0081] During the first vacuuming phase, as the vacuum pump 400 continuously evacuates the vacuum drawer 200, the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 continuously decreases. The pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 is then detected by the pressure detection device 500. When the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 reaches a preset pressure threshold a, the first vacuuming phase ends, and the second vacuuming phase begins. During the first vacuuming phase, the vacuum pump 400 operates for a time period T1.

[0082] During the second vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump 400 continues to vacuum the vacuum drawer 200, and the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 continues to decrease. When the vacuum pump 400 continues to run for T2 time during the second vacuuming stage, it automatically stops. At this time, the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 can reach the preset pressure threshold b, achieving the low-pressure environment required for low-pressure preservation and storage of food.

[0083] In the related art, the operating time T2 of the vacuum pump 400 during the second vacuuming stage is fixed. However, if the vacuum drawer 200 is loaded with a large number of items or is fully loaded, if the vacuum drawer 200 is still vacuumed for the fixed time T2 during the second vacuuming stage, the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 will be too low, which may easily cause deformation and damage to the drawer.

[0084] In order to solve this technical problem, the present application associates the operating time T2 of the vacuum pump 400 in the second vacuuming stage with the operating time T1 of the vacuum pump 400 in the first vacuuming stage, specifically T2 = (1-2) × T1.

[0085] In this way, the running time of the vacuum pump 400 in the second vacuuming stage is not fixed, so as to avoid the situation where the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 is too low during the vacuuming process.

[0086] According to the law of conservation of mass, the amount of gas expelled per unit time is equal to the decrease in the amount of gas in the container. According to the ideal gas law, nRT = PV, where R represents the universal gas constant, T represents the absolute temperature of the gas, P represents the gas pressure, V represents the volume of the target gas, and n represents the number of moles of gas. If the temperature T remains constant, n is directly proportional to P.

[0087] Set up the equation:

[0088]

[0089] Among them, V represents the volume of the vacuum drawer 200, Pult represents the ultimate pressure of the vacuum pump 400, the ultimate pressure of the vacuum pump 400 can be understood as the lowest pressure that the vacuum pump 400 can reach, P(t) represents the current pressure, t represents the pumping time, and S represents the pumping speed of the vacuum pump 400.

[0090] Solving the equation yields:

[0091]

[0092] Where P0 represents normal pressure. Substituting the actual parameters into the calculation, we can obtain T2≈1.29×T1.

[0093] Since the above derivation is based on the assumption that the exhaust speed of the vacuum pump 400 remains unchanged, under actual engineering conditions, the exhaust speed of the vacuum pump 400 will be slightly reduced, and the temperature in the drawer will fluctuate. Therefore, the relationship between T1 and T2 will also deviate and be corrected to T2 = (1~2)×T1.

[0094] The following is experimental data from the vacuum pump 400 evacuating an empty and loaded vacuum drawer 200. hPa represents air pressure. The volume of the vacuum drawer 200 is 16.5 L. The pressure detection device 500 is a mechanical pressure switch that records data every 30 seconds. The preset pressure threshold a is set to 0.9 atm, and the preset pressure threshold b is set to 0.8 atm. The mechanical pressure switch returns a feedback signal when the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 reaches 0.9 atm. That is, in the first evacuation phase, the vacuum pump 400 begins evacuating the vacuum drawer 200, which is at normal pressure. When the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 drops to 0.9 atm, the mechanical pressure switch returns a feedback signal, marking the end of the first evacuation phase. The vacuum pump 400 operates for a time period of T1. The vacuum pump 400 continues to operate for a time period of T2 before stopping, at which point the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset pressure threshold b. Under different working conditions, affected by the temperature, humidity, etc. in the vacuum drawer 200, the operating time of the vacuum pump 400 in each vacuuming stage varies.

[0095] (1) A vacuum pump with a no-load flow rate of 1.1 L / min was used to perform a vacuum test on an empty vacuum drawer. The duty cycle of the vacuum pump was 50%. The experimental data are as follows:

[0096] Index Time hPa 1 14:41:33 998.1 2 14:42:03 994.8 3 14:42:33 977.6 4 14:43:03 962.3 5 14:43:33 948.9 6 14:44:03 934.5 7 14:44:33 921.9 8 14:45:03 909.7 9 14:45:33 897.6 10 14:46:03 885.4 11 14:46:33 874.2 12 14:47:03 863 13 14:47:33 852.8 14 14:48:03 842.6 15 14:48:33 832.3 16 14:49:03 823.2 17 14:49:33 814.9 18 14:50:03 805.8

[0097] The operating time of the vacuum pump 400 in the first vacuuming stage is T1 = 4 min, and the operating time in the second vacuuming stage is T2 = 4.5 min, where T2 = 1.125 T1.

[0098] (2) A vacuum pump with a no-load flow rate of 2.4 L / min was used to perform a vacuum test on the no-load vacuum drawer. The duty cycle of the vacuum pump was 50%. The experimental data are as follows:

[0099] Index Time hPa 1 10:00:11 1001.9 2 10:00:41 978.7 3 10:01:11 950.5 4 10:01:41 926 5 10:02:11 903.3 6 10:02:41 882.4 7 10:03:11 863.4 8 10:03:41 845.3 9 10:04:11 828.1 10 10:04:41 812.8 11 10:05:11 797.5

[0100] The operating time of the vacuum pump 400 in the first vacuuming stage is T1 = 2 min, and the operating time in the second vacuuming stage is T2 = 3 min, where T2 = 1.5 T1.

[0101] (3) A vacuum pump with a no-load flow rate of 2.4 L / min was used to perform a vacuum test on the loaded vacuum drawer. The vacuum pump's duty cycle was 40%, and 4 L of items were placed in the vacuum drawer. The experimental data are as follows:

[0102] Index Time hPa 1 14:15:27 1009.8 2 14:15:57 985.8 3 14:16:27 963.7 4 14:16:57 944.7 5 14:17:27 925.5 6 14:17:57 909.4 7 14:18:27 893.3 8 14:18:57 878.1 9 14:19:27 865.9 10 14:19:57 852.7 11 14:20:27 839.6 12 14:20:57 828.4 13 14:21:27 817.3 14 14:21:57 807.1

[0103] The operating time of the vacuum pump 400 in the first vacuuming stage is T1=2.5 minutes, and the operating time in the second vacuuming stage is T2=4 minutes, T2=1.6T1. Based on a large amount of experimental data similar to the above, the present application corrects the relationship between T1 and T2 to T2=(1-2)×T1.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present application, the pressure detection device 500 is a mechanical pressure switch. Mechanical pressure switches are low-cost. They do not monitor the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 in real time. Instead, they are triggered only when the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 reaches a certain value, providing feedback to the control system.

[0105] Based on the mechanical pressure switch, the vacuum pump 400 of the present application divides the vacuuming process of the vacuum drawer 200 into two stages, namely the first vacuuming stage and the second vacuuming stage. In the first vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump 400 vacuums the vacuum drawer 200 at normal pressure. As the vacuuming continues, the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 continuously decreases. When the pressure drops to a certain pressure value, the mechanical pressure switch is triggered and a feedback signal is sent to the control system, and then the second vacuuming stage is carried out. The vacuum pump 400 continues to operate for a time t2 and then automatically stops.

[0106] In other words, during the process of the vacuum pump 400 evacuating the vacuum drawer 200, the mechanical pressure switch is only triggered once. In the second vacuuming stage, the pressure detection device 500 no longer detects the pressure value in the vacuum drawer 200, but relies on controlling the running time of the vacuum pump 400 to ensure that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset value when the vacuuming is completed.

[0107] The pressure detection device 500 is connected to the control panel of the refrigerator via a connector. The control system of the refrigerator controls the operation of the vacuum pump 400 according to the detection data of the pressure detection device 500.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present application, the vacuum pump 400 further includes a pressure-holding phase during the vacuuming process of the vacuum drawer 200. During the pressure-holding phase, when the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 is reduced to a preset pressure value, the vacuum pump 400 automatically restarts and re-vacuums the vacuum drawer 200. The vacuum pump 400 then automatically stops after running for a set time.

[0109] In other words, during the pressure-maintaining phase, the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 fluctuates back and forth between a preset pressure threshold value a and a preset pressure threshold value b. When the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 is relieved to the preset pressure threshold value a, the vacuum pump 400 restarts to evacuate the vacuum, causing the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 to drop back to the preset pressure threshold value b. This cycle repeats to maintain pressure. Based on the aforementioned mechanical pressure switch, during the pressure-maintaining phase, the mechanical pressure switch is only triggered and provides feedback to the control system when the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 is relieved to a certain pressure value. The control system then controls the vacuum pump 400 to restart.

[0110] During the pressure-holding phase, when the vacuum drawer 200 is being evacuated again, the pressure detection device 500 does not monitor the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 in real time. Instead, it relies on controlling the operating time of the vacuum pump 400 to ensure that the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset value when the vacuuming is completed. Therefore, controlling the operating time of the vacuum pump 400 during the pressure-holding phase is crucial to ensuring that the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset value.

[0111] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The vacuum pump 400's vacuuming process for the vacuum drawer 200 also includes a pressure maintaining stage.

[0112] The time it takes for the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 to be released from the preset pressure threshold b to the preset pressure threshold a is t1. The vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum drawer 200 to reduce the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b.

[0113] When t1 is greater than or equal to the preset interval t0, during the pressure-holding phase, the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum drawer 200 for a period of time t2, such that the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 decreases from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b. The preset interval t0 is the time interval between two consecutive vacuuming operations of the vacuum pump 400 during the pressure-holding phase.

[0114] In other words, when t1 ≥ the preset interval time t0, it indicates that the sealing performance of the vacuum drawer 200 is good. Then, when the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum drawer 200 during the pressure holding phase so that the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 drops from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b, the vacuum pump 400 can evacuate the drawer 200 according to the time t2 spent in the second vacuuming phase during the first vacuuming phase. In this way, the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 can be brought to the preset desired pressure while preventing the vacuum pump 400 from evacuating the drawer for too long, resulting in too low a pressure inside the drawer, or from evacuating the drawer for too short a time, resulting in the pressure inside the drawer exceeding the preset desired pressure.

[0115] When t1<preset interval time t0, in the pressure maintaining stage, the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum drawer 200 for a time period of (t2+Δt) to reduce the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b.

[0116] In other words, when t1 is less than the preset interval t0, it indicates that the sealing performance of the vacuum drawer 200 is poor. During the pressure-maintaining phase, the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum drawer 200 to reduce the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b. The vacuum pump 400's evacuation time is appropriately extended by Δt based on t2. This ensures that the pressure within the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset desired pressure, preventing the pressure within the drawer from exceeding the preset desired pressure due to an excessively short evacuation time.

[0117] This application dynamically adjusts the vacuuming time of the vacuum pump 400 in the pressure holding stage according to the time interval between two adjacent vacuuming operations of the vacuum drawer 200 by the vacuum pump 400, so that the vacuum drawer 200 can reliably reach the preset required pressure and avoid the vacuuming time being too long or too short.

[0118] In some embodiments of the present application, Δt=n×ts, where ts is a system preset basic time value, n is the number of occurrences of t1 < preset interval time t0 in the pressure holding stage, and n is a positive integer.

[0119] It should be noted that when the vacuum drawer 200 is opened, the pressure holding phase ends. After the vacuum drawer 200 is closed again, the vacuum drawer 200 enters a new cycle of the first vacuuming phase, the second vacuuming phase, and the pressure holding phase. After the vacuum drawer 200 is opened, the system data is reset to zero, and the data is accumulated again when the next vacuuming process begins.

[0120] After the vacuum drawer 200 is closed, vacuuming begins. When the pressure inside the vacuum drawer 200 drops to a preset pressure threshold value b, the vacuum drawer 200 enters a pressure-maintaining phase. During the entire pressure-maintaining phase, if the pressure of the vacuum drawer 200 is reduced to the preset pressure threshold value a once, and the time t1 is less than the preset interval time t0, then n is counted as 1, Δt = ts, and the vacuum pump 400 is restarted to re-evacuate the vacuum drawer 200 for (t2 + ts). If the pressure of the vacuum drawer 200 is reduced to the preset pressure threshold value a twice, and the time t1 is less than the preset interval time t0, then n is counted as 2, Δt = 2ts, and the vacuum pump 400 is restarted to re-evacuate the vacuum drawer 200 for (t2 + 2ts). And so on. When the vacuum drawer 200 is opened, t1, t2, and n are reset to zero. When the vacuum drawer 200 is closed and vacuumed again, t1, t2, and n are re-accumulated.

[0121] For example, if ts is 30 seconds and t0 is 6 hours, during the pressure-maintaining phase of the vacuum drawer 200, if t1 ≥ 6 hours, the system determines that the sealing performance of the vacuum drawer 200 is good. When the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 is released to the preset pressure threshold a, the vacuum pump 400 restarts to evacuate the vacuum drawer 200. The vacuum pump 400 uses the time t2 of the second vacuuming phase as the operating duration, ensuring that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset pressure threshold b.

[0122] During the pressure maintaining stage of the vacuum drawer 200, if t1 is less than 6 hours, the system determines that the sealing performance of the vacuum drawer 200 is poor. When the pressure of the vacuum drawer 200 is released to the preset pressure threshold a, the vacuum pump 400 restarts to evacuate the vacuum drawer 200. The vacuum pump 400 stops after t2+30 seconds, which can ensure that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset pressure threshold b.

[0123] When the vacuum pump 400 releases pressure to the preset pressure threshold a again, the vacuum pump 400 restarts to vacuum the vacuum drawer 200 and detects t1. If t1 ≥ 6 hours, the vacuum pump 400 restarts and stops after working for t2 time; if t1 < 6 hours, the vacuum pump 400 stops after working for t2 + 60 seconds, which can ensure that the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 reaches the preset pressure threshold b.

[0124] And so on, repeat the above pressure holding process.

[0125] Reference Figure 3 The control process of the vacuum drawer 200 during the pressure holding stage includes:

[0126] S1, the vacuum drawer 200 enters the pressure holding stage;

[0127] S2, as time goes by, the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 continues to increase, and the time it takes for the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 to be released to the preset pressure threshold a is t1;

[0128] S3, the system determines the magnitude relationship between t1 and the preset time interval t0;

[0129] S4, if t1 ≥ t0, the vacuum pump 400 restarts and automatically stops after working for a time t2, and returns to S2;

[0130] S5, if t1 < t0, the vacuum pump 400 restarts and automatically stops after working for a time t2 + △t, and returns to S2.

[0131] In some embodiments of the present application, n ≥ 1 and n ≤ 4. That is to say, during the pressure holding stage, the maximum working time of the vacuum pump 400 after restarting is t2 + 4 × ts, avoiding the vacuum pump 400 from working for too long.

[0132] For the setting position of the pressure detection device 500, the present application provides two embodiments.

[0133] In some embodiments of the present application, referring to Figures 4 to 7 A vacuum drawer 200 includes a drawer frame 300, a drawer cavity 350 with an open end 360 is formed in the drawer frame 300, and a first interface 310 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300.

[0134] The vacuum drawer 200 includes a drawer body 320, and the drawer body 320 is configured to be slidably disposed in the drawer cavity 350 through the open end 360.

[0135] The pressure detection device 500 is connected to the first interface 310 through a first pipeline 610. The pressure detection device 500 is a mechanical pressure switch, and the pressure detection device 500 is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 is within a preset pressure range.

[0136] The pressure detection device 500 is detachably disposed on the wall of the drawer frame 300. The pressure detection device 500 is in a detachable installation manner, which is convenient for replacement and maintenance.

[0137] A first interface 310 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300, and the pressure detection device 500 is connected to the first interface 310 through a first pipeline 610, so that the pressure detection device 500 is connected to the vacuum chamber to detect the pressure in the vacuum chamber.

[0138] A first interface 310 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300, and the pressure detection device 500 is connected to the first interface 310 via a first pipeline 610, so that the gas pressure in the drawer cavity is transmitted to the pressure detection device 500 via the first pipeline 610. The pressure detection device 500 is installed on the drawer frame 300 as an independent electrical component. During refrigerator production, the pressure detection device 500 can be tested first, and then a reliable pressure detection device 500 can be connected to the first interface 310 on the drawer frame 300 via the first pipeline 610. There is no need to first install the pressure detection device on the drawer frame and then test the pressure detection device as in the background art, thereby improving the production efficiency of the refrigerator.

[0139] The pressure detection device 500 feeds back a signal when detecting that the pressure in the drawer cavity is 0.7-0.92 atm. In other words, the pressure detection device 500 feeds back a signal when detecting that the pressure in the drawer cavity is a value between 70-92 kPa.

[0140] For example, the pressure detection device 500 feeds back a signal when detecting that the pressure in the drawer cavity is 0.7-0.8atm. This pressure value is suitable for storing low-humidity food, because this pressure value will cause serious water loss in some food, such as leafy vegetables such as spinach and lettuce.

[0141] For another example, the pressure detection device 500 feeds back a signal when detecting that the pressure in the drawer cavity is 0.8-0.92 atm. This pressure value is suitable for storing most food ingredients.

[0142] By setting the range of the pressure value, the pressure detection device 500 can be more reliable and accurate in the application scenario of a vacuum drawer.

[0143] In an existing refrigerator, the pressure detection device 500 uses an electronic pressure switch, which is expensive. In addition, due to the high humidity in the vacuum drawer 200, condensation is easily generated, especially when storing fruits and vegetables due to the airtightness in the vacuum drawer 200. As a result, the reliability and life of the electronic pressure switch in the vacuum drawer 200 are reduced.

[0144] The pressure detection device 500 of the present application adopts a diaphragm mechanical pressure switch to avoid the influence of humidity in the vacuum drawer 200 on the pressure detection device 500 and improve the reliability of pressure detection.

[0145] There is another type of refrigerator in which the pressure detection device 500 uses existing electrical components, and its size is relatively large compared to the application scenario of the vacuum drawer 200, and it occupies a large space.

[0146] This application designs a pressure detection device 500, and designs an outer diameter size D of the diaphragm mechanical pressure switch to be ≥15mm and ≤30mm, thereby reducing the space occupied by the pressure detection device 500 and making it more suitable for the application scenario of the refrigerator vacuum drawer 200.

[0147] For example, when the outer diameter D of a diaphragm mechanical pressure switch is ≥ 15mm and < 20mm, the corresponding feedback pressure signal is between 0.6 and 0.7atm; when the outer diameter D of a diaphragm mechanical pressure switch is ≥ 20mm and < 25mm, the corresponding feedback pressure signal is between 0.6 and 0.8atm; and when the outer diameter D of a diaphragm mechanical pressure switch is ≥ 25mm and ≤ 30mm, the corresponding feedback pressure signal is between 0.6 and 0.98atm. If the outer diameter D of the pressure detection device 500 is set to less than 15mm, the internal space of the pressure detection device 500 will be reduced, resulting in an undersized area of the internal diaphragm 520, insufficient deformation of the diaphragm 520, and large pressure recognition errors. Specifically, the smaller the outer diameter of the diaphragm mechanical pressure switch, the smaller the internal diaphragm area. Consequently, the same pressure differential generates less force, which affects the elastic deformation of the diaphragm and triggers the pressure switch. Other measures, such as reducing the thickness of the diaphragm or changing its shape, will increase costs or affect the sales of the pressure switch.

[0148] If the outer diameter D of the pressure detection device 500 is set to be greater than 30 mm, for the vacuum drawer 200 structure, the outer shell reinforcement ribs are usually designed to be between 15-25 mm. If the outer diameter of the pressure detection device 500 is too large, it will obviously affect the installation of the pressure detection device 500 on the vacuum drawer 200, and the excessive protrusion will cause waste of space.

[0149] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 4 The pressure detection device 500 is detachably provided on the left side wall or the right side wall of the drawer frame 300. The pressure detection device 500 is provided on the side of the drawer frame 300 to make full use of the side space of the drawer frame 300.

[0150] A vacuum pump 400 is provided on the rear wall of the drawer frame 300 , and the vacuum pump 400 is configured to evacuate the drawer cavity. The vacuum pump 400 is provided at the rear of the drawer frame 300 , making full use of the rear space of the drawer frame 300 .

[0151] The pressure detection device 500 and the vacuum pump 400 are arranged on different sides of the drawer frame 300 to avoid the two being close to each other and affecting the wiring.

[0152] In some embodiments of the present application, the pressure detection device 500 is detachably disposed on the left side wall or the rear side wall of the drawer frame 300 near the rear wall.

[0153] Because the front of the drawer frame 300 is open, the deformation of the front of the drawer frame 300 will be greater than the deformation of the back of the drawer frame 300 under the negative pressure of the vacuum chamber. Therefore, the pressure detection device 500 is placed near the back of the drawer frame 300 to reduce the impact of the deformation of the drawer frame 300 on the pressure detection accuracy. At the same time, placing the pressure detection device 500 at the back also helps to reduce the length of the wiring harness.

[0154] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 8 A groove 515 is provided on the peripheral wall of the pressure detection device 500 .

[0155] Reference Figure 6 A card slot 330 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300 , and the card slot 330 is engaged with the groove 515 to fix the pressure detection device 500 to the wall of the drawer frame 300 .

[0156] In a conventional refrigerator, the pressure detection device 500 is fixed by two screws. In this embodiment, the pressure detection device 500 is fixed to the drawer frame 300 by a snap connection, without the need for screws, and is easy to assemble and disassemble.

[0157] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 6 A plurality of spaced and staggered reinforcing ribs 370 are provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300 to improve the structural strength of the drawer frame 300 .

[0158] The slot 330 is disposed between two adjacent reinforcing ribs 370. After the pressure detection device 500 is installed, a portion of the pressure detection device 500 is embedded in the space between two adjacent reinforcing ribs 370, making full use of the side space of the drawer frame 300 and having a compact structure.

[0159] In some embodiments of the present application, a protrusion 320 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300, and the protrusion 320 protrudes toward the outside of the drawer frame 300. A first interface 310 is provided on the wall of the protrusion 320, and the first pipeline 610 is connected to the first interface 310.

[0160] In other words, the protrusion 320 has a hollow cavity on the side facing the vacuum chamber, which is connected to the vacuum chamber. The protrusion 320 is provided with a first port 310, which is connected to the vacuum chamber. The first port 310 is connected to the first pipeline 610 to connect the pressure detection device 500 to the vacuum chamber.

[0161] The provision of the protrusion 320 , on the one hand, helps to improve the structural strength of the drawer frame 300 ; on the other hand, it also facilitates the connection operation of the first pipeline 610 .

[0162] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 11 The vacuum pump 400 is connected to the inner cavity of the vacuum drawer 200 through the suction pipe 410.

[0163] The pressure detection device 500 is connected to the suction pipeline 410 via a branch pipeline 620 . The pressure detection device 500 is a mechanical pressure switch and is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer 200 is within a preset pressure range.

[0164] In an existing refrigerator, the pressure detection device 500 is installed on the drawer frame 300 as an independent electrical component, which is inconvenient to disassemble and assemble.

[0165] In this case, the pressure detection device 500 is connected to the suction pipe 410 of the vacuum pump 400 through a branch pipe 620, integrating the pressure detection device 500 with the vacuum pump 400, which is conducive to modular production and manufacturing, unified docking and installation of wiring harnesses, and disassembly and assembly of the pressure detection device 500.

[0166] The vacuum pump 400 and the pressure detection device 500 are integrated as a feeding module. During the refrigerator assembly process, the connection process between the pressure detection device 500 and the suction pipe 410 is omitted, which helps to improve on-site assembly efficiency.

[0167] The vacuum pump 400 and the pressure detection device 500 are integrated, and the drawer frame 300 only needs to be provided with an interface connected to the suction pipe 410, and there is no need to provide an additional interface for the pressure detection device 500.

[0168] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 11 One end of the suction line 410 is connected to the interface on the drawer frame 300, and the other end is connected to the suction port of the vacuum pump 400. One end of the branch line 620 is connected to the suction line 410, and the other end is connected to the interface of the pressure detection device 500. The suction line 410 and the branch line 620 are integrated three-way silicone tubes.

[0169] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 A one-way valve 430 is provided on the suction pipeline 410 , and the branch pipeline 620 is connected to the pipeline section between the one-way valve 430 and the drawer frame 300 .

[0170] In other words, the air intake line 410 includes a first air intake line 411 and a second air intake line 412, a one-way valve 430 is disposed between the first air intake line 411 and the second air intake line 412, the first air intake line 411 is connected to the interface on the drawer frame 300, and the second air intake line 412 is connected to the air intake port of the vacuum pump 400. One end of the branch line 620 is connected to the first air intake line 411, and the other end is connected to the pressure detection device 500.

[0171] By providing a one-way valve 430 on the suction pipe 410, external air can be effectively prevented from entering the vacuum chamber through the vacuum pump 400. Connecting the branch pipe 620 to the first suction pipe 411 helps to improve the reliability of pressure detection.

[0172] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 14 , a groove 515 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the pressure detection device 500. Figure 10 The drawer frame 300 is provided with a card slot 330 , and the card slot 330 is engaged with the groove 515 to fix the pressure detection device 500 to the drawer frame 300 .

[0173] In a conventional refrigerator, the pressure detection device 500 is fixed by two screws. In this embodiment, the pressure detection device 500 is fixed to the drawer frame 300 by a snap connection, without the need for screws, and is easy to assemble and disassemble.

[0174] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 10 The vacuum pump 400 and the pressure detection device 500 are arranged on the rear wall of the drawer frame 300, making full use of the rear space of the drawer frame 300 and having a compact structure.

[0175] Because the front of the drawer frame 300 is open, the deformation of the front of the drawer frame 300 will be greater than the deformation of the back of the drawer frame 300 under the negative pressure of the vacuum chamber. Therefore, the pressure detection device 500 is arranged at the back of the drawer frame 300 to reduce the impact of the deformation of the drawer frame 300 on the pressure detection accuracy. At the same time, the rearward placement of the pressure detection device 500 also helps to reduce the length of the wiring harness.

[0176] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 10 A protrusion 320 is provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300 , and the protrusion 320 protrudes toward the outside of the drawer frame 300 . A first interface 310 is provided on the wall of the protrusion 320 , and the air intake pipe 410 is connected to the first interface 310 .

[0177] In other words, the protrusion 320 has a cavity on the side facing the vacuum chamber, which is connected to the vacuum chamber. The protrusion 320 is provided with a first port 310, which is connected to the vacuum chamber. The first port 310 is connected to the suction line 410 to connect the vacuum pump 400 to the vacuum chamber.

[0178] The setting of the protrusion 320, on the one hand, helps to improve the structural strength of the drawer frame 300; on the other hand, it also facilitates the connection operation of the suction pipe 410.

[0179] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 10 Two spaced connection parts 340 are provided on the wall of the drawer frame 300 , and a shell 420 is provided on the outside of the vacuum pump 400 . The shell 420 is connected to the connection part 340 to achieve fixed installation of the vacuum pump 400 on the drawer frame 300 .

[0180] One of the connecting portions 340 is disposed on the protruding portion 320. In other words, the protruding portion 320 is located between the connecting portion 340 and the rear wall of the drawer frame 300. The protruding portion 320 makes full use of the space between the connecting portion 340 and the drawer frame 300, and leads the first interface 310 from this space, resulting in a compact structure and also helping to improve the structural strength of the connecting portion 340.

[0181] Regarding the structure of the pressure detection device 500, this application provides two embodiments.

[0182] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figures 14 to 16 The pressure detection device 500 includes a housing 510 , and a cavity is formed inside the housing 510 .

[0183] The pressure detection device 500 further includes a diaphragm 520 , which is disposed in the cavity. The diaphragm 520 divides the cavity into a first cavity 513 and a second cavity 514 . The first cavity 513 is connected to the drawer cavity through a first pipeline 610 .

[0184] The pressure detection device 500 further includes a limiting portion 530 , which is disposed in the second cavity 514 . The limiting portion 530 is configured to limit the diaphragm 520 from moving axially along the cavity. A perforation is provided in the limiting portion 530 .

[0185] The pressure detection device 500 further includes a contact mechanism 570 disposed in the second cavity 514 .

[0186] The pressure detection device 500 further includes a moving rod 560 . The moving rod 560 passes through the perforation. One end of the moving rod 560 is close to the diaphragm 520 , and the other end is close to the contact mechanism 570 .

[0187] Under normal pressure, the moving rod 560 moves upward and triggers the contact mechanism 570 , the circuit is connected, and the pressure detection device 500 is in a normally closed state.

[0188] The vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum chamber. When the negative pressure in the vacuum chamber reaches a second set value, the diaphragm 520 deforms, the moving rod 560 moves away from the contact mechanism 570, the pressure detection device 500 is disconnected, an electrical signal is output, and the vacuum pump 400 stops.

[0189] When the pressure in the vacuum chamber gradually increases to the first set value as the pressure is maintained, the moving rod 560 triggers the contact mechanism 570 again, the circuit is turned on again, and the vacuum pump 400 starts.

[0190] In some embodiments of the present application, the housing 510 includes a first housing 511 and a second housing 512 , and the first housing 511 and the second housing 512 are ultrasonically welded.

[0191] Since the negative pressure value recognized by the pressure detection device 500 used in the refrigerator vacuum drawer 200 is not very large, generally -10kPa to -40kPa, the first shell 511 and the second shell 512 are welded by ultrasonic welding to meet the structural strength requirements and reduce costs.

[0192] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 14 The housing 510 is provided with a second interface 518 , the second interface 518 is connected to the first pipeline 610 , and the second interface 518 is communicated with the first cavity 513 .

[0193] A first pot piece 541 and a first piston portion 551 are disposed in the first cavity 513 . The first pot piece 541 covers the second interface 518 , and the first piston portion 551 is located between the first pot piece 541 and the diaphragm 520 .

[0194] The contact mechanism 570 includes a fixed contact 572 and a moving contact 571. When the fixed contact 572 contacts the moving contact 571, the circuit is connected. When the fixed contact 572 separates from the moving contact 571, the circuit is disconnected.

[0195] A first elastic member 581 is disposed in the limiting portion 530 , and the first elastic member 581 is configured to apply a force to the moving button to move the moving rod 560 away from the contact mechanism 570 (specifically, the moving contact 571 ). For example, the first elastic member 581 is a spring.

[0196] Specifically, under normal pressure, the first pot piece 541 is in a natural state. In the natural state, the first pot piece 541 is arc-shaped. The first pot piece 541 arcs out in the direction close to the moving rod 560. The first pot piece 541 pushes the first piston part 551 to move in the direction close to the diaphragm 520. The first piston part 551 pushes the diaphragm 520 to deform in the direction close to the moving rod 560. The moving rod 560 is forced to move in the direction close to the moving contact 571. The first elastic member 581 is compressed under force. The moving rod 560 pushes the moving contact 571 to move in the direction close to the fixed contact 572. The moving contact 571 contacts the fixed contact 572, the circuit is conducted, and the pressure detection device 500 is in a normally closed state.

[0197] When the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum chamber, the pressure in the vacuum chamber gradually decreases. When the negative pressure in the vacuum chamber reaches the second set value, under the action of the negative pressure, the diaphragm 520 pushes the first pot piece 541 to deform to a planar state, and the first elastic member 581 pushes the moving rod 560 to move in a direction away from the moving contact 571. The moving rod 560 disengages from the moving contact 571. The moving contact 571 has an elastic arm, and the elastic arm resets. The moving contact 571 disengages from the fixed contact 572, the pressure detection device 500 is disconnected, and the vacuum pump 400 stops.

[0198] When the pressure in the vacuum chamber gradually increases to the first set value as the pressure is maintained, the first pot piece 541 returns to an arc shape, pushing the first piston part 551 and the moving rod 560 to reset, and the moving rod 560 triggers the moving contact 571 again. The moving contact 571 contacts the fixed contact 572, the circuit is turned on again, and the vacuum pump 400 starts.

[0199] In some embodiments of the present application, a sealing ring 531 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the limiting portion 530 , and the sealing ring 531 is sealed against the inner peripheral wall of the second shell 512 to improve the sealing performance.

[0200] In some embodiments of the present application, a groove is provided on the inner circumferential wall of the first housing 511. The diaphragm 520 includes a flange 521, which is inserted into the groove. The stopper 530 abuts against the top of the flange 521, thereby limiting the position of the diaphragm 520 through the stopper 530 and the first housing 511.

[0201] In some embodiments of the present application, a groove is provided in the middle of the diaphragm 520, the first piston portion 551 is located in the groove, and the moving rod 560 is located above the groove. In this way, the moving rod 560 and the first piston portion 551 are in the same straight line, which is conducive to reliable transmission of force.

[0202] In some embodiments of the present application, a sealing cap 517 is provided on the second shell 512 to achieve sealing of the second cavity 514 .

[0203] In some embodiments of the present application, an upper cover 516 is provided on the second shell 512 , and the upper cover 516 covers the protruding portion of the contact mechanism 570 .

[0204] In some embodiments of this application, refer to Figures 17 to 19 The housing 510 is provided with a second interface 518 , the second interface 518 is connected to the first pipeline 610 , and the second interface 518 is communicated with the first cavity 513 .

[0205] A second piston portion 552 and a second elastic member 582 are disposed within the first chamber 513. The second elastic member 582 is, for example, a spring. One end of the second piston portion 552 is inserted into the second port 518, while the other end abuts against the diaphragm 520. The second elastic member 582 is configured to apply a force to the second piston portion 552, causing it to move toward the diaphragm 520. A second pot 542 is disposed between the movable rod 560 and the contact mechanism 570.

[0206] Specifically, under normal pressure, the second elastic member 582 is compressed, and the second elastic member 582 pushes the movable rod 560 box to move in the direction close to the second pot piece 542. The second pot piece 542 is planar. The second pot piece 542 triggers the contact mechanism 570, the circuit is turned on, and the pressure detection device 500 is in a normally closed state.

[0207] When the vacuum pump 400 evacuates the vacuum chamber, the pressure in the vacuum chamber gradually decreases. When the negative pressure in the vacuum chamber reaches a second set value, under the action of the negative pressure, the diaphragm 520 overcomes the pre-pressure of the second elastic member 582 and moves to the limit while driving the moving rod 560 away from the second pot piece 542. The second pot piece 542 rebounds and falls off from the contact mechanism 570, the circuit is disconnected, and the vacuum pump 400 stops.

[0208] When the pressure in the vacuum chamber gradually increases to the first set value as the pressure is maintained, the second elastic member 582 drives the diaphragm 520 and the moving rod 560 to reset, the pressure detection device 500 is reset and connected, and the vacuum pump 400 is started.

[0209] In the description of the above embodiments, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0210] The above are only specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: A box body, wherein a storage space is formed in the box body; a door body, the door body being configured to close or open the storage space; It is characterized by: The refrigerator also includes: a vacuum drawer, the vacuum drawer being arranged in the storage space; a pressure detection device configured to detect the pressure in the vacuum drawer; A vacuum pump is configured to evacuate the vacuum drawer, wherein the vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer by: In the first vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump starts to vacuum the vacuum drawer in a normal pressure state. When the pressure detection device detects that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold a, the operation time of the vacuum pump is T1; In the second vacuuming stage, the vacuum pump continues to run for a time T2 and then stops, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer reaches a preset pressure threshold b; Among them, a>b, T2=(1~2)×T1.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer, further comprising a pressure-maintaining stage. The time taken for the pressure in the vacuum drawer to be released from a preset pressure threshold value b to a preset pressure threshold value a is t1. The vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer drops from the preset pressure threshold value a to the preset pressure threshold value b. When t1≥preset interval time t0, in the pressure maintaining stage, the vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer for a time period t2, so that the pressure in the vacuum drawer drops from a preset pressure threshold value a to a preset pressure threshold value b; When t1 is less than the preset interval time t0, in the pressure maintaining stage, the vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum drawer for a time period of (t2+Δt) to reduce the pressure in the vacuum drawer from the preset pressure threshold a to the preset pressure threshold b.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that △t=n×ts, where ts is a system preset basic time value, n is the number of occurrences of t1 < preset interval time t0 in the pressure holding stage, and n is a positive integer.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that n≥1 and n≤4.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein The vacuum drawer comprises: A drawer frame, wherein a drawer cavity with an open end is formed in the drawer frame, and a first interface is provided on a wall of the drawer frame; a drawer body configured to be drawn out and disposed in the drawer cavity through the opening; The pressure detection device is connected to the first interface through a first pipeline. The pressure detection device is a mechanical pressure switch. The pressure detection device is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer is within a preset pressure range.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein: The vacuum pump is connected to the inner cavity of the vacuum drawer through a suction pipeline; The pressure detection device is connected to the suction pipeline through a branch pipeline. The pressure detection device is a mechanical pressure switch. The pressure detection device is configured to feedback a signal when the pressure in the vacuum drawer is within a preset pressure range.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that A one-way valve is provided on the air suction pipeline, and the branch pipeline is connected to the pipeline section between the one-way valve and the vacuum drawer.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The pressure detection device includes: a shell having a cavity formed therein; a diaphragm, disposed in the cavity, the diaphragm dividing the cavity into a first cavity and a second cavity, the first cavity being in communication with the drawer cavity through the first pipe; a limiting portion, disposed in the second cavity, configured to limit the diaphragm from moving axially along the cavity, and having a perforation therein; a contact mechanism, disposed in the second cavity; A moving rod passes through the through hole, one end of the moving rod is close to the diaphragm, and the other end is close to the contact mechanism.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that The housing is provided with a second interface, the second interface is connected to the first pipeline, and the second interface is communicated with the first cavity; A first pot piece and a first piston portion are provided in the first cavity, the first pot piece covers the second interface, and the first piston portion is located between the first pot piece and the diaphragm; A first elastic member is provided in the limiting portion, and the first elastic member is configured to apply a force to the moving button to move the moving rod away from the contact mechanism.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that The housing is provided with a second interface, the second interface is connected to the first pipeline, and the second interface is communicated with the first cavity; A second piston part and a second elastic member are provided in the first cavity, one end of the second piston part is inserted into the second interface, and the other end is against the diaphragm, and the second elastic member is configured to apply a force to the second piston part to move the second piston part toward the direction close to the diaphragm, and a second pot is provided between the moving rod and the contact mechanism.

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