Control method for refrigerator, refrigerator and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a control method for a refrigerator, the refrigerator and a computer readable storage medium, the refrigerator comprises a detachable ice mold and a heating assembly, and the heating assembly is configured to be controlled to heat the ice mold; the control method comprises the following steps: in response to an ice mold dismounting request instruction which indicates that an ice mold is requested to be dismounted, obtaining a current working stage of an ice making function under the condition that the refrigerator operates the ice making function; under the condition that the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is smaller than or equal to a first temperature threshold value, the heating assembly is controlled to conduct heating; and after the heating assembly is controlled to finish heating, detachable prompt information indicating that the ice mold is allowed to be detached is generated. According to the method, by controlling the time of sending the detachable prompt, the situation that the ice mold is not easy to clean due to the fact that the internal temperature of the ice mold is too low or even the ice mold is frozen when the ice mold is detached by a user is effectively avoided, and the use experience of the user is optimized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of refrigerators, and in particular to a control method for a refrigerator, a refrigerator, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Art

[0002] To meet users' needs for easy access to ice cubes, some refrigerators are equipped with a dedicated ice-making device, specifically comprising a liquid injection unit and an ice mold. When ice is needed, the liquid injection unit injects the ice-making liquid into the ice mold for freezing. Once frozen, the ice cubes are removed from the mold by an ice-turning mechanism for easy access. In existing refrigerators, the ice mold is often fixed, making it difficult for users to disassemble and clean it individually.

[0003] To facilitate individual cleaning of the ice molds, the product design includes a removable ice mold that the user can remove as needed. However, if the user removes the ice mold at any stage of the ice-making process, the removed ice mold may be too cold, making cleaning more difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a control method for a refrigerator, a refrigerator, and a computer-readable storage medium to facilitate users in cleaning ice molds.

[0005] The present application provides a control method for a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising a detachable ice mold and a heating assembly, the heating assembly being configured to controllably heat the ice mold; the control method comprising: in response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove the ice mold, obtaining the current working stage of the ice-making function when the refrigerator is operating an ice-making function; when the current working stage is the ice-making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a first temperature threshold, controlling the heating assembly to heat; after controlling the heating assembly to heat, generating a detachable prompt message indicating that the ice mold is allowed to be removed.

[0006] Optionally, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a first temperature threshold, the heating component is controlled to heat, including: controlling the heating component to operate at a first power; when the duration of the heating component operating at the first power reaches a duration threshold, controlling the heating component to operate at a second power; wherein the first power is greater than the second power.

[0007] Optionally, when the duration for which the heating component has been running at the first power reaches a duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to operate at the second power, including: if the current ice mold temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, when the duration for which the heating component has been running at the first power reaches the first duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to operate at the second power; if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the second temperature threshold, when the duration for which the heating component has been running at the first power reaches the second duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to operate at the second power; wherein the first duration threshold is less than the second duration threshold, and the second temperature threshold is less than the first temperature threshold.

[0008] Optionally, after controlling the heating component to operate at the second power, it also includes: obtaining the real-time temperature of the ice mold during the operation of the heating component at the second power; when the real-time temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, controlling the heating component to stop operating.

[0009] Optionally, when the current working stage is the ice making stage, the method further includes: if the current ice mold temperature is greater than a first temperature threshold, generating a detachable prompt message.

[0010] Optionally, after obtaining the current working stage of the ice-making function, the method further includes: when the current working stage is a liquid injection stage of injecting liquid into the ice mold, controlling the liquid injection process to stop and generating a detachable prompt message.

[0011] Optionally, the refrigerator also includes: an ice storage box and an ice turning mechanism, the ice turning mechanism is controlled to start and run to move the ice cubes in the ice mold into the ice storage box; after obtaining the current working stage of the ice making function, it also includes: when the current working stage is the ice inspection stage, if the ice storage box is full of ice, the heating component is controlled to heat up, and a detachable prompt message is generated after the heating of the heating component is controlled to be finished; or, if the ice storage box is not full of ice, the ice turning mechanism is controlled to run, and a detachable prompt message is generated after the operation of the ice turning mechanism is controlled to be finished.

[0012] Optionally, the control method for a refrigerator further includes: after the ice mold is removed, if it is detected that the ice mold is reinstalled, controlling the heating component to operate heating.

[0013] The present application provides a refrigerator, comprising: a detachable ice mold; a heating assembly configured to controllably heat the ice mold; and one or more processors for implementing any of the above methods.

[0014] The present application provides a computer-readable storage medium having a program stored thereon. When the program is executed by a processor, the control method as described in any one of the above items is implemented.

[0015] The control method, refrigerator, and computer-readable storage medium provided in the present application, upon receiving an ice mold removal request, obtain the current operating stage of the ice-making function if the refrigerator is currently operating the ice-making function. If the refrigerator is in the ice-making stage and the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a first temperature threshold, it indicates that the ice mold may be cold or even frozen inside. In this case, the heating component is controlled to heat the ice mold to increase the temperature. After heating is completed, a detachable prompt is generated to allow the ice mold to be removed. In this way, by controlling the timing of the detachable prompt, the user is effectively prevented from removing the ice mold when the internal temperature of the ice mold is too low or even frozen, making it difficult to clean the ice mold, thereby optimizing the user experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a refrigerator provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0017] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The refrigerator shown is a half-section view at AA;

[0018] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The refrigeration principle diagram of the refrigerator shown;

[0019] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a refrigerator with an integrated ice-making device is shown;

[0020] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a refrigerator provided by one embodiment of the present application;

[0021] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a refrigerator provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0022] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a refrigerator provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0023] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a refrigerator provided by another embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 9 This is a control diagram of a refrigerator provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Reference numerals:

[0026] 1. Refrigerator; 10. Cabinet assembly; 11. Cabinet assembly; 12. Door assembly; 12a. First door; 12b. Second door; 13. Freezer; 14. Refrigerator; 15. Air duct; 20. Compressor; 30. Condenser; 40. Evaporator; 50. Expansion valve; 60. Ice-making device; 100. Ice-making component; 110. Ice mold; 120. Drive assembly; 130. Ice storage box; 140. Carrying assembly; 200. Liquid injection component; 210. Liquid storage container; 220. Liquid injection pipe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail herein, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, when referring to the drawings, identical numerals in different figures represent identical or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments are not intended to represent all embodiments consistent with one or more embodiments of this specification. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with certain aspects of one or more embodiments of this specification, as detailed in the appended claims.

[0028] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the steps of the corresponding method are not necessarily performed in the order shown and described in this specification. In some other embodiments, the method may include more or fewer steps than those described in this specification. In addition, a single step described in this specification may be broken down into multiple steps for description in other embodiments, and multiple steps described in this specification may be combined into a single step for description in other embodiments.

[0029] The terms used in this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. Unless otherwise defined, technical or scientific terms used in this application should have the ordinary meaning understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this specification and claims do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but are simply used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms "a" or "an" and similar words do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "plurality" or "several" mean at least two. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "front," "rear," "lower," and / or "upper" and similar words are for convenience only and are not intended to limit to a single position or spatial orientation. The terms "include" or "comprising" and similar words mean that the elements or objects listed before "include" or "comprising" include the elements or objects listed after "include" or "comprising" and their equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms "connected" or "connected" and similar words are not limited to physical or mechanical connections and can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0030] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," "said," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the present application provides a refrigerator 1, comprising a cabinet device 10, a compressor 20, a condenser 30, an evaporator 40 and an expansion valve 50. The cabinet device 10 comprises a cabinet assembly 11, a freezer compartment 13, a refrigerator compartment 14 and a door assembly 12. The freezer compartment 13 and the refrigerator compartment 14 are respectively arranged in the cabinet assembly 11. The door assembly 12 comprises a first door 12a and a second door 12b. The first door 12a is rotatably connected to the cabinet assembly 11 to open or close the freezer compartment 13. The second door 12b is rotatably connected to the cabinet assembly 11 to open or close the freezer compartment 13. The compressor 20, the condenser 30, the evaporator 40 and the expansion valve 50 are respectively arranged in the cabinet assembly 11, and at least a portion of the evaporator 40 is arranged in the freezer compartment 13.

[0032] Combine Figure 3 As shown, when the refrigerator 1 is in operation, the compressor 20 outputs high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant to the condenser 30, where it is condensed into medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant then undergoes expansion and throttling by the expansion valve 50, further reducing its pressure and temperature. It then flows out of the expansion valve 50 as a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant to the evaporator 40. The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant evaporates into a gaseous refrigerant within the evaporator 40. At least a portion of the evaporator 40 is located within the freezer compartment 13, allowing the refrigerant to absorb a significant amount of heat from the freezer compartment 13 during evaporation, thereby lowering the temperature within the freezer compartment 13 and facilitating the use of the freezer compartment 13 to cool items, thereby achieving refrigeration in the refrigerator 1. The refrigerant exiting the evaporator 40 is then fed back into the compressor 20, forming a refrigerant circuit. In this manner, the refrigerant continuously circulates within the refrigerant circuit to maintain a refrigerated environment (e.g., below -1°C) within the freezer compartment 13.

[0033] See you later Figure 2 As shown, an air duct 15 is provided between the refrigerating compartment 14 and the freezing compartment 13 to facilitate the delivery of part of the cold air from the freezing compartment 13 to the refrigerating compartment 14 through the air duct 15 to reduce or maintain the low temperature environment of the refrigerating compartment 14 (eg, 2°C to 8°C).

[0034] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the freezer compartment 13 is disposed below the refrigerator compartment 14 along the height direction of the refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 also includes a first fan (not labeled) disposed in the cabinet assembly 11. The air inlet or air outlet of the first fan is connected to the air duct, and is used to transport part of the cold air from the freezer compartment 13 to the refrigerator compartment 14.

[0035] like Figure 2 As shown, the height direction of the refrigerator 1 is the Z-axis direction.

[0036] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the freezing chamber 13 is covered with an insulation layer (not shown) to separate the evaporator 40 from the compressor 20 and the condenser 30 .

[0037] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the freezing chamber 13 is covered with an insulation layer (not shown).

[0038] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 1 further includes an air-cooling heat dissipation component (not shown) disposed in the cabinet component 11 , and the air-cooling heat dissipation component can at least dissipate heat for the condenser 30 .

[0039] In some embodiments, the cabinet assembly 11 further includes a fresh-keeping compartment disposed in the cabinet assembly 11 . Along the height direction of the refrigerator 1 , the fresh-keeping compartment is disposed between the refrigerating compartment 14 and the freezing compartment 13 .

[0040] In order to meet the needs of users for using ice cubes, Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigerator 1 further includes an ice-making compartment and an ice-making device 60 for making ice cubes. The ice-making device 60 includes an ice-making component 100 and a liquid injection component 200. The ice-making component 100 includes an ice mold 110 disposed in the ice-making compartment. The liquid injection component 200 is used to inject the liquid required for making ice cubes into the ice mold 110.

[0041] The ice making chamber is provided in the freezer compartment 13. The ice making device 60 and the freezer compartment 13 share the evaporator 40, utilizing the cold energy in the freezer compartment 13 to make ice. Alternatively, a separate evaporator (not shown) dedicated to ice making can be provided to provide the ice making device 60 with the cold energy required for ice making.

[0042] It should be noted that Figure 4 The first door 12a of the refrigerator is shown to be open and not illustrated, and the second door 12b is in a closed state.

[0043] Optionally, in some embodiments, the liquid injection component 200 includes a liquid connection assembly for communicating with the external liquid injection tube 220 .

[0044] like Figure 4As shown, in one example, the liquid injection component 200 includes a liquid storage container 210 and a liquid injection tube 220. The liquid storage container 210 is disposed in the refrigeration compartment 14, and one end of the liquid injection tube 220 is connected to the liquid storage container 210. The other end of the liquid injection tube 220 is disposed above the ice mold 110 along the height direction of the refrigerator 1.

[0045] Optionally, the liquid injection component 200 further includes a liquid injection valve (not shown) disposed on at least one of the liquid storage container 210 and the liquid injection tube 220 to control the start or stop of the liquid injection process. Specifically, when the liquid injection valve is open, the liquid injection component 200 injects the liquid required for ice making into the ice mold 110; when the liquid injection valve is closed, the liquid injection component 200 stops injecting liquid into the ice mold 110.

[0046] The ice making unit 100 further includes an ice storage box 130 and an ice turning mechanism. The ice turning mechanism is used to allow ice cubes in the ice mold 110 to escape. Along the height direction of the refrigerator 1, the ice storage box 130 is arranged below the ice mold 110. In this way, the ice storage box 130 can receive ice cubes that fall from the ice mold 110 for users to take out. Specifically, Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice mold 110 is rotatably arranged in the freezing chamber 13 and has a liquid contact state and an ice pouring state. The ice turning mechanism includes a drive assembly 120 for driving the ice mold 110 to switch between the liquid contact state and the ice pouring state. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the ice mold 110 is not rotatable. The ice turning mechanism includes a drive assembly 120 and an ice rake. The drive assembly 120 is used to drive the ice rake to flip so as to push the ice cubes in the ice mold 110 out of the ice mold 110. In some embodiments, the ice rake is configured to rotate 360°. During the flipping process, the ice cubes are pushed out of the ice mold 110 and the ice rake returns to its initial position. In some embodiments, in order to further ensure that all the ice cubes in the ice mold 110 are pushed out of the ice mold 110, the ice rake is configured to rotate 720°.

[0047] The driving assembly 120 includes an ice-making motor, which is electrically connected to the ice rake and is controlled to operate to provide power for the turning of the ice rake.

[0048] It should be noted that the ice mold 110 and the driving assembly 120 can be directly or indirectly disposed in the freezing chamber 13 .

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the ice-making component 100 further includes a carrier assembly 140, which is fixed to the freezer compartment 13. The ice mold 110 is mounted on the carrier assembly 140. The drive assembly 120 is mounted on the carrier assembly 140. Thus, by integrating the ice mold 110 and the drive assembly 120 through the carrier assembly 140, the ice-making component 100 can be modularly assembled within the freezer compartment 13, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the refrigerator.

[0050] In some embodiments, the liquid storage container 210 is disposed on the second door 12b. Thus, the liquid storage container 210 can be stored in the cold storage compartment 14 through the second door 12b, making it convenient for users to take and place the liquid storage container 210. In some embodiments, ice water can also be provided to users.

[0051] In some embodiments, ice mold 110 is detachable. Specifically, ice mold 110 is detachably attached to carrier assembly 140. More specifically, ice mold 110 and carrier assembly 140 are connected using a snap-fit, plug-in, or magnetic connection. This allows users to remove ice mold 110 for cleaning as needed.

[0052] In some embodiments, when the ice mold 110 is detachable, the ice-making component 100 further includes an ice mold position detection component for determining whether the current position of the ice mold 110 is installed or not installed. In some embodiments, the position detection component includes a position detection component and a position sensing component. Specifically, the ice mold 110 includes a position detection component, and the supporting component 140 is provided with a position sensing component. When the ice mold 110 is not installed, the position sensing component cannot sense the position detection component; when the ice mold 110 is installed, the position sensing component can sense the position detection component. More specifically, the position detection component is a magnet, and the position sensing component is a Hall sensor. In some embodiments, the ice mold position detection component can also be a sensing device such as an image sensor or an infrared sensor, which determines whether the ice mold is installed by analyzing images or infrared data.

[0053] In some embodiments, the ice-making device in the refrigerator further includes a heating assembly. The heating assembly is configured to controllably heat the ice mold 110. Specifically, the heating assembly is disposed at the bottom of the ice mold 110 to heat the bottom of the ice mold 110, and to heat other areas of the ice cube through heat conduction from the ice mold 110. In some embodiments, the ice mold 110 is made of aluminum. When the ice mold 110 is made of aluminum, the ice mold 110 conducts heat to heat other areas of the ice cube inside the ice mold 110. In actual application, the heating assembly can be any one or more combinations of heating wires, heating tubes, and heating plates.

[0054] In some embodiments, the ice-making device 60 of the refrigerator 1 further includes an ice detection assembly for detecting the ice storage status in the ice storage bin 130. The ice storage status includes at least determining whether the ice storage bin 130 is full of ice. Specifically, in some embodiments, the ice detection assembly includes an ice detection rod and a Hall effect switch. The ice detection rod is provided with a magnet. The Hall effect switch is located at the bottom of the ice storage bin 130. The ice detection rod moves up and down, driving the magnet up and down, changing the distance between the magnet and the Hall effect switch, and consequently, the magnetic field sensed by the Hall effect switch. The ice detection rod is electrically connected to the aforementioned ice-making motor, which provides power for the operation of the ice detection assembly. When the ice storage bin 130 is not full of ice, the distance between the magnet and the Hall effect switch is short, the magnetic field strength is high, and a high-level signal is output. When the ice storage bin 130 is full of ice, the distance between the magnet and the Hall effect switch is long, the magnetic field strength is low, and a low-level signal is output. In this manner, whether the ice storage bin 130 is full of ice can be determined based on the high-level and low-level signals. In other embodiments, the storage status of ice cubes in the ice bank 130 can be determined using a sensing device such as an optical sensor or an image sensor. For example, if an optical sensor is used, light is emitted into the interior of the ice bank 130. The reflected light varies depending on the amount of ice stored in the ice bank 130, and the storage status of ice cubes in the ice bank 130 can be determined based on the reflected light. If an image sensor is used, an image of the interior of the ice bank 130 is captured by the image sensor, and the storage status of ice cubes in the ice bank 130 can be determined by analyzing the image.

[0055] In some embodiments, refrigerator 1 further includes an ice-making blower to regulate air circulation within the space where ice molds 110 are located. This is the aforementioned air circulation within the ice-making compartment. Specifically, if refrigerator 1 is equipped with a separate evaporator dedicated to ice making, a blower corresponding to this separate evaporator is provided. This blower is the aforementioned ice-making blower. If refrigerator 1 is not equipped with a separate evaporator dedicated to ice making, a blower is provided within the ice-making compartment where ice molds 110 are located to control air flow within the ice-making compartment. This blower is the aforementioned ice-making blower.

[0056] Combine Figure 5 As shown, the present application provides a control method for a refrigerator, which is applied to a refrigerator including a detachable ice mold 110 and a heating assembly for controlled heating of the ice mold 110. The control method includes steps S501 to S503.

[0057] Step S501: in response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove an ice mold, when the refrigerator is operating an ice-making function, obtaining a current working stage of the ice-making function.

[0058] The disassembly request instruction for requesting to disassemble the ice mold is an instruction input by the user through an input device such as a key, an interactive screen or an intelligent terminal. If the disassembly request instruction is received, it means that the user currently has a demand to disassemble the ice mold.

[0059] The ice-making process in a refrigerator generally includes liquid filling, ice making, ice inspection, and ice turning. Accordingly, the ice-making function can be divided into the liquid filling, ice making, ice inspection, and ice turning stages. During the liquid filling stage, the liquid filling component injects water or other ice-making liquid into the ice mold, and then the ice-making stage begins. During the ice-making stage, the refrigerator compressor's operating frequency is increased to increase the cooling capacity, providing cooling capacity for the ice mold and freezing the liquid in the ice mold into ice cubes. The ice-making fan is also activated to increase air flow within the ice mold, promoting cooling. After the ice-making stage, the ice-checking stage begins. The ice storage bin is assessed for ice cubes, which includes at least determining whether the bin is full. If the bin is not full, the ice-turning stage begins, transferring the ice cubes formed in the ice mold to the bin. If the bin is full, ice turning is not performed, or ice inspection continues until the bin is confirmed to be partially full, at which point ice turning is performed. In some embodiments, the ice turning stage also includes a heating process. Before the ice turning operation, the heating component is controlled to heat the ice mold to melt the surface where the ice cubes are in contact with the ice mold, thereby preventing the ice cubes from freezing in the ice mold and being difficult to remove.

[0060] During actual operation, whether the ice-making function is currently running and the current working stage of the ice-making function can be determined through the current operating status of each device in the refrigerator.

[0061] Step S502: when the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature threshold, control the heating component to heat.

[0062] If the current operating phase is determined to be ice-making, the temperature sensor detects the real-time ice mold temperature. In actual applications, the temperature of the inner and / or outer surfaces of the ice mold can be detected. If multiple temperature values ​​are obtained, one can be selected as the ice mold temperature based on the actual situation, or the average of the multiple temperature values ​​can be used as the ice mold temperature for subsequent determination.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first temperature threshold is set to 5°C. The temperature of liquid when injected into the ice mold is often greater than 5°C. If the monitored ice mold temperature is less than or equal to 5°C, it indicates that the cooling capacity generated during the current ice-making phase has already achieved a cooling effect, indicating that the temperature is too low or ice has already formed. In actual applications, the first temperature can be set to other values ​​based on actual needs.

[0064] Step S503: After the heating component is controlled to finish heating, a detachable prompt message is generated indicating that the ice mold can be detached.

[0065] Here, the prompting information indicating that the ice mold can be removed is generated by controlling the prompting device to issue a prompting information to prompt the user to open the refrigerator door and remove the ice mold. For example, the prompting information is generated by controlling the prompting device to flash a button for controlling ice mold removal. In other embodiments, the prompting information may be generated by controlling a prompting light to flash, controlling a sound emitting device to emit a prompting sound, or sending a prompting information to a terminal device.

[0066] Using the refrigerator control method provided in this application, upon receiving an ice mold removal request, if the refrigerator is currently operating the ice-making function, the current operating stage of the ice-making function is determined. If the refrigerator is in the ice-making stage and the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a first temperature threshold, indicating that the ice mold may be cold or even frozen inside, the heating component is controlled to heat the ice mold to increase its temperature. After heating is complete, a detachable prompt is generated, allowing the ice mold to be removed. This effectively avoids situations where the user might encounter a situation where the internal temperature of the ice mold is too low or even frozen, making it difficult to clean, by controlling the timing of the detachable prompt. This optimizes the user experience.

[0067] In some embodiments, when the current working stage is the ice-making stage, the control method for a refrigerator further includes: if the current ice mold temperature is greater than a first temperature threshold, generating a detachable prompt message. At this time, the ice mold temperature is relatively high and will not affect the user's cleaning of the ice mold, so the detachable prompt message can be directly generated.

[0068] In some embodiments, when the current working stage is the ice-making stage, the control method for the refrigerator further includes: controlling the refrigerator to stop making ice. That is, the ice-making stage is interrupted, and the various components in the refrigerator are controlled to return to the state before the ice-making function starts. Specifically, during the ice-making stage, the compressor operates at a higher frequency. Controlling the refrigerator to stop making ice includes controlling the compressor to reduce the frequency. More specifically, controlling the compressor to reduce the frequency includes controlling the compressor to reduce the frequency to the compressor frequency before the ice-making stage. In addition, the refrigerator also includes an ice-making fan, which starts running during the ice-making stage to regulate the air circulation in the space where the ice mold is located. Controlling the refrigerator to stop making ice also includes controlling the ice-making fan to stop running. In this way, if a disassembly request instruction indicating a request to disassemble the ice mold has been received, it means that the current user's demand is to disassemble the ice mold. Stopping ice making at this time can avoid unnecessary waste of resources, which is conducive to saving resources and improving energy efficiency.

[0069] In some embodiments, the refrigerator control method further includes: after the ice mold is removed, if it is detected that the ice mold has been reinstalled, controlling the heating assembly to operate heating. After the ice mold is removed, the user may clean the ice mold, resulting in residual water or other liquid on the surface of the ice mold. This residual liquid freezes and freezes the ice mold to the refrigerator's inner wall or other internal components, making it difficult to remove the ice mold. Therefore, after the ice mold is reinstalled, heating the ice mold with the heating assembly to dry the surface of the ice mold, which helps prevent the ice mold from freezing inside the refrigerator and thus preventing the ice mold from being removed. In actual use, the heating assembly's heating duration and power can be set. For example, operating at maximum power for 20 seconds. Setting this to maximum power here can minimize residual liquid on the ice mold surface in the shortest possible time. In other embodiments, a sensor can be provided to detect residual liquid on the ice mold surface, and the heating assembly can be controlled to operate until the ice mold surface, or a specific area of ​​the ice mold surface, is free of residual water, thereby ensuring effective drying.

[0070] Combine Figure 6 As shown, the present application provides another control method for a refrigerator, including steps S601 to S604.

[0071] Step S601: in response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove an ice mold, when the refrigerator is operating an ice making function, obtaining a current working stage of the ice making function.

[0072] Step S602: when the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a first temperature threshold, control the heating component to operate at a first power.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first power is the maximum power at which the heating assembly can operate. Thus, operating the heating assembly at maximum power can quickly raise the temperature and begin heating the ice mold. This helps heat the ice mold in a shorter time, thereby reducing the waiting time for users to remove the ice mold.

[0074] Step S603: When the duration of the heating component operating at the first power reaches a duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to operate at a second power, wherein the first power is greater than the second power.

[0075] Step S604: After the heating component is controlled to finish heating, a detachable prompt message is generated indicating that the ice mold can be detached.

[0076] The refrigerator control method provided herein utilizes a two-stage control process for controlling the heating element. In the first stage, the heating element operates at a higher first power, allowing it to quickly heat up from its original state, thus shortening user waiting time. After the duration of operation at the first power reaches a threshold, the heating element's temperature is sufficient to heat the ice mold. At this point, the heating element operates at a lower power, reducing power consumption. This two-stage control of the heating element's heating process achieves a balanced approach to heating efficiency and power savings.

[0077] In some embodiments, when the duration of the heating component running at the first power reaches a duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to run at the second power, including: if the current ice mold temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, when the duration of the heating component running at the first power reaches the first duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to run at the second power; if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the second temperature threshold, when the duration of the heating component running at the first power reaches the second duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to run at the second power. The first duration threshold is less than the second duration threshold, and the second temperature threshold is less than the first temperature threshold. Exemplarily, the value range of the second temperature threshold is -6°C to 1°C. The first duration threshold is 15s; the second duration threshold is 20s. Depending on the specific settings of the heating component and the ice mold, the specific values ​​of the first duration threshold and the second duration threshold may vary accordingly.

[0078] Combine Figure 7 As shown, an embodiment of the present application provides another control method for a refrigerator, including steps S701 to S706.

[0079] Step S701: in response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove an ice mold, when the refrigerator is operating an ice making function, obtaining a current working stage of the ice making function.

[0080] Step S702: when the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature threshold, control the heating component to operate at the first power.

[0081] Step S703: When the duration of the heating component operating at the first power reaches a duration threshold, the heating component is controlled to operate at a second power, wherein the first power is greater than the second power.

[0082] Step S704: obtaining the real-time temperature of the ice mold when the heating component is operating at the second power.

[0083] Here, the real-time temperature of the ice mold can be obtained through a temperature sensor.

[0084] Step S705: When the real-time temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, the heating component is controlled to stop operating.

[0085] Step S706: After the heating component is controlled to finish heating, a detachable prompt message is generated indicating that the ice mold can be detached.

[0086] In this way, after the heating assembly starts heating at the second power, the real-time temperature of the ice mold is monitored, and heating is stopped when the real-time temperature reaches the first temperature threshold. This allows accurate determination of the timing of heating termination, thereby avoiding situations where the ice mold temperature remains too low due to insufficient heating or energy waste due to overheating.

[0087] In some embodiments, after the heating component stops heating, a detachable prompt message is generated, indicating that the ice mold can be removed. This includes generating a detachable prompt message indicating that the ice mold can be removed after the heating component has been inactive for a delay period. This allows the residual heat of the heating component to continue to be utilized during the delay period, which helps improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, the temperature of the heating component decreases during the delay period, preventing burns caused by contact with the heating component when removing the ice mold. For example, the delay period can be 10 seconds.

[0088] Combine Figure 8 As shown, another control method for a refrigerator in the present application includes steps S801 to S805.

[0089] Step S801: In response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove an ice mold, when the refrigerator is operating an ice making function, obtaining a current working stage of the ice making function.

[0090] Step S802: when the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature threshold, control the heating component to heat.

[0091] Step S803: After the heating component is controlled to finish heating, a detachable prompt message is generated indicating that the ice mold can be detached.

[0092] Step S804: when the current working stage is the liquid injection stage of injecting liquid into the ice mold, the liquid injection process is controlled to stop and a detachable prompt message is generated.

[0093] Step S805: When the current working stage is the ice inspection stage, if the ice storage box is full of ice, the heating component is controlled to heat, and a detachable prompt message is generated after the heating component is controlled to heat; or, if the ice storage box is not full of ice, the ice turning mechanism is controlled to operate, and a detachable prompt message is generated after the ice turning mechanism is controlled to operate.

[0094] Here, if the ice storage box is full of ice, the heating process of controlling the heating component can adopt the heating control logic of controlling the heating process of the heating component when the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first threshold.

[0095] The control method for a refrigerator provided by the present application allows a user to determine whether the ice mold can be removed directly based on the current operating phase of the ice-making function. If removal is not possible, the user can prepare for removal and then receive a prompt indicating that the ice mold can be removed. This allows the user to accurately determine the timing of removing the ice mold, avoiding wasting resources or making it difficult to clean after removal.

[0096] In some embodiments, after obtaining the current operating stage of the ice-making function, the refrigerator control method further includes: if the current operating stage is the ice-turning stage, controlling the refrigerator to complete the ice-turning, and generating a detachable prompt message after the ice-turning is completed. In this way, the formed ice cubes are transferred to the ice storage box, thereby avoiding unnecessary waste.

[0097] In some embodiments, the refrigerator further includes an anti-condensation fan configured to controllably discharge air toward the space above the ice mold. When the current operating phase is the liquid injection phase, the control method further includes controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate. During the liquid injection process, controlling the anti-condensation fan to discharge air toward the ice mold promotes air flow, preventing vapor from evaporating from the liquid from accumulating above the ice mold, thereby preventing condensation from forming above the ice mold and potentially contaminating the ice cubes or reducing energy efficiency.

[0098] In some embodiments, controlling the anti-condensation fan includes controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at a set speed during the process of injecting liquid into the ice mold. This speed is pre-programmed and can be directly called during application. This ensures that air is continuously discharged above the ice mold, preventing steam from condensing above the ice mold to form condensate.

[0099] In some embodiments, controlling the operation of the anti-condensation fan includes: obtaining the liquid temperature of the injected liquid during the process of injecting liquid into the ice mold; controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at a first speed when the liquid temperature is greater than a first liquid temperature threshold; controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at a second speed when the liquid temperature is less than or equal to the first liquid temperature threshold; wherein the first speed is greater than the second speed. In this way, controlling the speed of the anti-condensation fan according to the liquid temperature of the liquid injected into the ice mold can more accurately meet current actual needs. If the liquid temperature of the injected liquid is greater than the first liquid temperature threshold, it means that the liquid temperature is higher and more easily evaporated, so the anti-condensation fan is controlled to operate at the higher first speed. If the liquid temperature of the injected liquid is less than or equal to the first liquid temperature threshold, it means that the liquid temperature is relatively low and the evaporation amount is relatively small, so controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at the lower second speed can prevent condensation of condensed water, without having to operate at a higher speed to cause unnecessary energy consumption.

[0100] Specifically, during the injection process, a temperature sensor measures the temperature at the liquid outlet of the injection valve, which represents the temperature of the injected liquid. Compared to directly measuring the temperature of the injected liquid in the ice mold, measuring the temperature at the liquid outlet of the injection valve avoids the influence of the ice mold temperature, thus improving the accuracy of the liquid temperature.

[0101] As an example, the first liquid temperature threshold value ranges from 8° C. to 12° C. Preferably, the first liquid temperature threshold value is 10° C.

[0102] During implementation, the correspondence between the liquid temperature and the anti-condensation fan speed can be further configured based on actual needs, not limited to the aforementioned division of the liquid temperature into two intervals based on the first liquid temperature threshold. The correspondence between the liquid temperature and the anti-condensation fan speed can be maintained as long as a positive correlation is maintained.

[0103] In some embodiments, the refrigerator control method further includes: if the refrigerator door is opened while the anti-condensation fan is operating, controlling the anti-condensation fan to pause operation until the refrigerator door is closed. The anti-condensation fan generates noise during operation. Therefore, controlling the anti-condensation fan to stop when the anti-condensation fan is running and the refrigerator door is opened by the user can prevent the user from hearing loud operating noise, thereby optimizing the user experience.

[0104] In some embodiments, after controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate, the control method further includes: obtaining the ice mold temperature; recording the duration of time that the ice mold temperature is lower than the first ice mold temperature threshold; and controlling the anti-condensation fan to stop operating when the duration is greater than the first duration threshold. In this way, after the anti-condensation fan starts operating, as the ice-making process runs, the ice mold temperature and the internal liquid temperature will gradually decrease. If the duration of time that the ice mold temperature is lower than the first liquid temperature threshold reaches the first duration threshold, it means that the liquid temperature in the ice mold is at a relatively stable low temperature and is in the freezing process. At this time, there is no need for the anti-condensation fan to disturb the air above the ice mold and condensation water will not form above the ice mold. In this way, the timing for the anti-condensation fan to stop operating can be accurately determined, and while ensuring the anti-condensation effect, the anti-condensation fan can be avoided from over-operating, which is beneficial to saving energy consumption.

[0105] Optionally, the first ice mold temperature threshold is less than 0° C. More specifically, the first ice mold temperature threshold ranges from -10° C. to -5° C. In this way, the temperature of the liquid used for ice making can be kept low and condensation will not form on the ice mold.

[0106] Optionally, the first duration threshold value ranges from 20 minutes to 30 minutes. In this way, it can be ensured that the liquid temperature has stabilized at a low temperature state and condensed water will no longer form above the ice mold.

[0107] In some embodiments, after recording the duration of time the ice mold temperature is below the first ice mold temperature threshold, the refrigerator control method further includes: upon detecting that the refrigerator door is open, clearing the accumulated duration and re-recording the duration of time the ice mold temperature is below the first ice mold temperature threshold. In actual use, users may need to open and close the door to access items in the refrigerator. The temperature outside the refrigerator is often much higher than the temperature inside the refrigerator. Opening and closing the door causes air exchange between the inside and outside of the refrigerator, causing temperature disturbances inside the refrigerator and making condensation more likely to form. Clearing and re-recording the recorded duration in this case helps improve the reliability of the anti-condensation process.

[0108] In some embodiments, the height of the anti-condensation fan is lower than the height of the space above the ice mold, and the anti-condensation fan is configured to deliver air from bottom to top. Alternatively, the anti-condensation fan can be positioned below the ice mold. "Below" here means that the height of the anti-condensation fan's air outlet is lower than the ice mold. Furthermore, it is important to note that the anti-condensation fan should be positioned so that the air path between the anti-condensation fan's air outlet and the space above the ice mold is not completely blocked.

[0109] In some embodiments, after controlling the heating assembly to heat, the control method further includes controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate while the heating assembly is operating. This allows heat emitted by the heating assembly, which heats the ice mold, to be carried to the space above the ice mold along with the airflow from the anti-condensation fan. This helps reduce the amount of heat transferred from the heating assembly to the ice storage bin below the ice mold, thereby preventing the ice in the ice storage bin from partially melting and sticking to each other, causing inconvenience for the user.

[0110] In some embodiments, controlling the anti-condensation fan during operation of the heating assembly includes: determining a target speed based on the operating power of the heating assembly; and controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at the target speed. Thus, controlling the anti-condensation fan based on the current operating power of the heating assembly can further reflect current actual needs, making the operation of the anti-condensation fan more consistent with current actual needs and improving the accuracy of the anti-condensation fan's operation.

[0111] In some embodiments, determining the target speed based on the operating power of the heating component includes: determining the target speed based on the operating power of the heating component, including: determining a third speed as the target speed when the operating power of the heating component is greater than a first power threshold; and determining a fourth speed as the target speed when the operating power of the heating component is less than or equal to the first power threshold. The third speed is lower than the fourth speed. The higher the power of the heating component, the more heat is dissipated per unit time. Excessively high speeds of the anti-condensation fan will excessively disrupt air circulation, increasing the risk of heat being blown into the ice storage bin, causing the ice in the ice storage bin to partially melt and stick together. Therefore, controlling the anti-condensation fan to operate at a lower speed when the operating power of the heating component is high can greatly prevent the ice in the ice storage bin from melting.

[0112] like Figure 9 As shown, the refrigerator includes one or more processors 901 for implementing the control method for the refrigerator as described above.

[0113] In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include a computer-readable storage medium 909, which may store programs that can be called by the processor 901 and may include non-volatile storage media. In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include a memory 908 and an interface 907. In some embodiments, the refrigerator may also include other hardware depending on the actual application.

[0114] The computer-readable storage medium 909 of the embodiment of the present application stores a program thereon, which, when executed by the processor 901, is used to implement the control method for the refrigerator as described above.

[0115] The present application may take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-readable storage media 909 (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing program code. The computer-readable storage medium 909 includes permanent and non-permanent, removable and non-removable media, and information storage can be implemented by any method or technology. The information can be computer-readable instructions, data structures, modules of programs or other data. Examples of computer-readable storage media 909 include but are not limited to: phase change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, read-only compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or any other non-transmission media that can be used to store information that can be accessed by a computing device.

[0116] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "middle", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships 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.

[0117] In this application, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "installed," "connected," "connect," "fixed," etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connection, detachable connection, or integration; mechanical connection or electrical connection; direct connection or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; internal communication between two elements or interaction between two elements, unless otherwise specified. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on specific circumstances.

[0118] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, when a first feature is "above" or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, when a first feature is "above," "above," or "above" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. When a first feature is "below," "below," or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0119] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to," "disposed on," "fixed on," or "installed on" another element, it may be directly on the other element or there may be an intermediate element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it may be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element at the same time. Furthermore, when an element is considered to be "fixedly connected" to another element, the two may be fixed in a detachable connection manner or in a non-detachable connection manner, such as socketing, snap-fitting, integral molding, welding, etc., which can be achieved in traditional technologies and will not be elaborated here.

[0120] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this specification and is not intended to limit this specification. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of this specification should be included in the scope of protection of this specification.

[0121] It should also be noted that the terms "comprises," "includes," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, commodity, or apparatus that includes a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or includes elements inherent to such process, method, commodity, or apparatus. In the absence of further limitations, the phrase "comprises a ..." defining an element does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, commodity, or apparatus that includes the element.

Claims

1. A control method for a refrigerator, characterized in that: The refrigerator includes a detachable ice mold and a heating assembly, wherein the heating assembly is configured to controllably heat the ice mold; and the control method includes: In response to an ice mold removal request instruction indicating a request to remove the ice mold, obtaining a current working stage of the ice making function when the refrigerator is operating an ice making function; When the current working stage is the ice making stage, if the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature threshold, controlling the heating component to heat; After the heating component is controlled to finish heating, a detachable prompt message is generated indicating that the ice mold is allowed to be detached.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: If the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature threshold, controlling the heating component to heat includes: controlling the heating component to operate at a first power; When the duration for which the heating component operates at the first power reaches a duration threshold, controlling the heating component to operate at a second power; The first power is greater than the second power.

3. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the duration for which the heating component operates at the first power reaches a duration threshold, controlling the heating component to operate at the second power includes: If the current ice mold temperature is greater than a second temperature threshold, and the duration for which the heating component operates at the first power reaches a first duration threshold, controlling the heating component to operate at a second power; If the current ice mold temperature is less than or equal to a second temperature threshold, and the heating component has been operating at the first power for a period of time that reaches a second time threshold, controlling the heating component to operate at a second power; The first duration threshold is smaller than the second duration threshold, and the second temperature threshold is smaller than the first temperature threshold.

4. The control method according to claim 2, characterized in that: After controlling the heating component to operate at the second power, the method further includes: obtaining a real-time temperature of the ice mold during operation of the heating component at a second power; When the real-time temperature is greater than or equal to the first temperature threshold, the heating component is controlled to stop operating.

5. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the current working stage is the ice-making stage, it also includes: If the current ice mold temperature is greater than the first temperature threshold, the detachable prompt information is generated.

6. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: After obtaining the current working stage of the ice-making function, the method further includes: When the current working stage is the liquid injection stage of injecting liquid into the ice mold, the liquid injection process is controlled to stop and the detachable prompt information is generated.

7. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The refrigerator further comprises: an ice storage box and an ice turning mechanism, wherein the ice turning mechanism is controlled to start and operate to move ice cubes in the ice mold into the ice storage box; after the current working stage of the ice making function is obtained, the refrigerator further comprises: In the case where the current working stage is the ice detection stage, if the ice storage box is full of ice, the heating component is controlled to heat, and the detachable prompt information is generated after the heating of the heating component is controlled to be finished; or If the ice storage box is not full of ice, the ice turning mechanism is controlled to operate, and after the operation of the ice turning mechanism is controlled to be completed, the detachable prompt information is generated.

8. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: Also includes: After the ice mold is removed, if it is detected that the ice mold is reinstalled, the heating assembly is controlled to operate heating.

9. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: Removable ice molds; a heating assembly configured to controllably heat the ice mold; and, One or more processors, configured to implement the control method for a refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that A program is stored thereon, and when the program is executed by a processor, the control method for a refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 is implemented.

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