Refrigerator and temperature control method thereof

Abstract

The invention provides a refrigerator and a temperature control method thereof.The temperature control method of the refrigerator comprises the steps that when two chambers both have refrigeration requirements, the absolute temperature difference between the actual temperature of each chamber and the corresponding set target temperature is calculated; if the absolute temperature difference of the two chambers meets the preset preferential refrigeration condition, one chamber is selected as a preferential refrigeration chamber, and the other chamber is selected as a secondary refrigeration chamber; in the two refrigerating systems, two compressors are controlled to start and operate, one switching valve is controlled to be communicated with a main evaporator corresponding to the preferential refrigerating chamber, and meanwhile the other switching valve is controlled to be communicated with an auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary refrigerating chamber until the actual temperature of the preferential refrigerating chamber reaches the corresponding set target temperature; according to the invention, the requirement of multi-chamber personalized temperature control can be effectively met, and the overall performance of the system is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of refrigerators, and more specifically, relates to a refrigerator and its temperature control method. Background Technology

[0002] In traditional refrigerator refrigeration systems, a single compressor typically provides the cooling capacity for the entire system. However, for applications requiring independent temperature control of multiple compartments, a single compressor is insufficient to meet the individualized needs of each compartment. To address this, a non-cascade dual-compressor system has been proposed. This system, by configuring two compressors, each serving a different compartment, theoretically enables more precise temperature control. Nevertheless, effectively meeting the needs of personalized temperature control for multiple compartments remains a critical issue that urgently needs to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator and its temperature control method to solve the problem that existing refrigerators cannot meet the needs of personalized temperature control for multiple compartments.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0005] This invention provides a temperature control method for a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising two compartments and a non-cascade refrigeration system; the non-cascade refrigeration system consists of two independent refrigeration systems; each refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser, a switching valve, a throttling component, a main evaporator, and a secondary evaporator connected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation loop, and the main evaporator and the secondary evaporator are respectively connected to the two outlet ends of the switching valve; each compartment is equipped with one main evaporator and one secondary evaporator; the temperature control method of the refrigerator includes:

[0006] When both rooms have cooling requirements, calculate the absolute temperature difference between the actual temperature of each room and the corresponding set target temperature.

[0007] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments meets the preset priority cooling conditions, then one of the compartments is selected as the priority cooling compartment and the other compartment is selected as the secondary cooling compartment.

[0008] In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority refrigeration compartment, while the other switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary refrigeration compartment, until the actual temperature of the priority refrigeration compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0009] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0010] When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is being powered on for the first time, it will control both compressors to continue running, and control one of the switching valves to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, while controlling the other switching valve to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment, until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0011] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0012] When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is not being powered on for the first time, the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment will stop running, and the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment will continue running. At the same time, another switching valve will be controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0013] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0014] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling conditions, then in both refrigeration systems, both compressors will be started and both switching valves will be connected to the main evaporator until the actual temperature of one of the compartments reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0015] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0016] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling condition, but meets the preset energy-saving cooling condition, then one of the cooling systems will be started to cool the two compartments, or the two cooling systems will be started alternately in sequence according to the preset staggered start strategy to cool the two compartments.

[0017] Furthermore, the two compartments are respectively the first compartment and the second compartment, and the step of alternately activating the two refrigeration systems to refrigerate the two compartments according to a preset staggered start-up strategy specifically involves:

[0018] First, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first compartment is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so as to cool both compartments at the same time;

[0019] When the first room no longer needs cooling but the second room still needs cooling, shut down the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first room is located, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the second room is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the main evaporator, so that only the second room is cooled;

[0020] When the second compartment still needs cooling and the first compartment needs cooling again, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is selected, and the corresponding switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so that both compartments are cooled at the same time.

[0021] When the second compartment no longer needs cooling but the first compartment still needs cooling, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is shut down, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the first compartment is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator to cool both compartments at the same time.

[0022] This process continues until neither room requires cooling.

[0023] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0024] The absolute temperature difference between the two compartments determines which compartment is designated as a special freezing compartment and the other as a regular refrigeration compartment.

[0025] In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment, while the other switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment.

[0026] When the sum of the speeds of the two compressors does not exceed the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are continuously increased until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

[0027] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0028] When the combined speed of the two compressors exceeds the preset speed threshold, the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment is shut down, and the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment is selected. The corresponding switching valve is controlled to continue running at the preset maximum speed until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

[0029] Furthermore, it also includes:

[0030] When only one room has a cooling requirement, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the room with the cooling requirement is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the main evaporator to cool only the room with the cooling requirement.

[0031] The present invention also proposes a refrigerator comprising two compartments and a non-cascaded refrigeration system; the non-cascaded refrigeration system consists of two independent refrigeration systems; each refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser, a switching valve, a throttling component, a main evaporator, and a secondary evaporator connected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation loop, and the main evaporator and the secondary evaporator are respectively connected to the two outlet ends of the switching valve; each compartment is equipped with a main evaporator and a secondary evaporator; characterized in that the refrigerator's controller is configured to implement the refrigerator temperature control method described above.

[0032] Compared with existing technologies, the refrigerator and its temperature control method provided by this invention have the following advantages: For situations where both compartments require cooling, if preset priority cooling conditions are met, one compartment is selected as the priority cooling compartment, and the other as the secondary cooling compartment. In the two refrigeration systems, two compressors are controlled to start simultaneously, and two switching valves are controlled respectively: one switching valve connects to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, and the other switching valve connects to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment. In this way, the two refrigeration systems work together to cool the priority cooling compartment, prioritizing its cooling needs. This design effectively meets the needs of personalized temperature control for multiple compartments and improves the overall system performance. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the non-cascade refrigeration system of the refrigerator in this invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the temperature control method for the refrigerator during its first power-on in this invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is the flow chart of the temperature control method for the refrigerator during non-first power-on cycles in this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0037] Figure 4 This is the flow chart of the temperature control method for the refrigerator during non-first power-on cycles in this invention. Figure 2 ;

[0038] Figure 5 This is the flow chart of the temperature control method for the refrigerator during non-first power-on cycles in this invention. Figure 3 ;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the temperature control method for a refrigerator in energy-saving mode according to the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the temperature control method for a refrigerator under special freezing conditions in this invention;

[0041] The main markings in the attached figures are as follows:

[0042] C1, the first room; C2, the second room;

[0043] 11. First compressor; 12. Second compressor;

[0044] 21. First condenser; 22. Second condenser;

[0045] 31. First dryer filter; 32. Second dryer filter;

[0046] 41. First switching valve; 42. Second switching valve;

[0047] 51. First throttling component; 52. Second throttling component; 53. Third throttling component; 54. Fourth throttling component;

[0048] 61. First main evaporator; 62. Second auxiliary evaporator; 63. Third main evaporator; 64. Fourth auxiliary evaporator. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0050] To facilitate understanding, the following will first explain the specific structure of a refrigerator in detail, and then introduce the refrigerator's temperature control method.

[0051] The refrigerator proposed in this invention comprises two compartments and a non-cascade refrigeration system; the non-cascade refrigeration system consists of two independent refrigeration systems; each refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser, a switching valve, a throttling component, a main evaporator and a secondary evaporator connected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation loop, and the main evaporator and the secondary evaporator are respectively connected to the two outlet ends of the switching valve; each compartment is equipped with a main evaporator and a secondary evaporator.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the two compartments are compartment 1 (C1) and compartment 2 (C2), which are the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, respectively. The two refrigeration systems are the first refrigeration system and the second refrigeration system, respectively.

[0053] The first refrigeration system includes a first compressor 11, a first condenser 21, a first switching valve 41, a first throttling assembly, a first main evaporator 61, and a second auxiliary evaporator 62. The first main evaporator 61 corresponds to the first compartment C1, while the second auxiliary evaporator 62 corresponds to the second compartment C2. A first dryer filter 31 is connected in series between the first condenser 21 and the first switching valve 41. In the first throttling assembly, a first throttling element 51 is connected in series on the inlet side of the first main evaporator 61, and a second throttling element 52 is connected in series on the inlet side of the second auxiliary evaporator 62. In a preferred embodiment, both the first throttling element 51 and the second throttling element 52 are capillary tubes. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the first throttling element 51 and the second throttling element 52 may also be electronic expansion valves.

[0054] The first outlet of the first switching valve 41 is connected to the inlet side of the first main evaporator 61, and the second outlet of the second switching valve 42 is connected to the inlet side of the second auxiliary evaporator 62. The first switching valve 41 can switch between the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0055] There are two scenarios regarding the refrigerant flow direction in the first refrigeration system, as detailed below:

[0056] When the first switching valve 41 switches to the first outlet end, it connects the first main evaporator 61. Only the first main evaporator 61 participates in the refrigerant cycle, while the second auxiliary evaporator 62 does not. At this time, the refrigerant flows from the exhaust port of the first compressor to the first condenser 21, then to the first dryer filter 31, the first switching valve 41, the first throttling element 51, the first main evaporator 61, and the suction port of the first compressor 11, cooling only the first compartment C1.

[0057] When the first switching valve 41 switches to the second outlet, it connects the second auxiliary evaporator 62, and both the first main evaporator 61 and the second auxiliary evaporator 62 participate in the refrigerant cycle. At this time, the refrigerant flows from the exhaust port of the first compressor 11 to the first condenser 21, the first dryer filter 31, the first switching valve 41, the second throttling element 52, the second auxiliary evaporator 62, the first main evaporator 61, and the suction port of the first compressor 11, simultaneously cooling both compartments.

[0058] Similarly, the second refrigeration system includes a second compressor 12, a second condenser 22, a second switching valve 42, a second throttling assembly, a third main evaporator 63, and a fourth auxiliary evaporator 64. The third main evaporator 63 corresponds to the second compartment C2, while the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64 corresponds to the first compartment C1. A second dryer filter 32 is connected in series between the second condenser 22 and the second switching valve 42. In the first throttling assembly, a third throttling element 53 is connected in series on the inlet side of the third main evaporator 63, and a fourth throttling element 54 is connected in series on the inlet side of the second auxiliary evaporator 62. In a preferred embodiment, both the third throttling element 53 and the fourth throttling element 54 are capillary tubes. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the third throttling element 53 and the fourth throttling element 54 may also be electronic expansion valves.

[0059] The third outlet of the second switching valve 42 is connected to the inlet side of the third main evaporator 63, and the fourth outlet of the second switching valve 42 is connected to the inlet side of the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64. The second switching valve 42 can switch between the third outlet and the fourth outlet.

[0060] There are two scenarios regarding the refrigerant flow direction in the second refrigeration system, as detailed below:

[0061] When the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet, it connects the third main evaporator 63. Only the third main evaporator 63 participates in the refrigerant cycle, while the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64 does not. At this time, the refrigerant flows as follows: discharge port of the second compressor 12 → second condenser 22 → second dryer filter 32 → second switching valve 42 → third throttling element 53 → third main evaporator 63 → suction port of the second compressor 12, cooling only the second compartment C2.

[0062] When the second switching valve 42 switches to the fourth outlet, it connects the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, and both the third main evaporator 63 and the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64 participate in the refrigerant cycle. At this time, the refrigerant flows as follows: discharge port of the second compressor 12 → second condenser 22 → second dryer filter 32 → second switching valve 42 → fourth throttling element 54 → fourth auxiliary evaporator 64 → third main evaporator 63 → suction port of the second compressor 12, simultaneously cooling both compartments.

[0063] Based on the specific structure of the aforementioned refrigerator, in some embodiments of the present invention, the temperature control method of the refrigerator includes at least the following steps:

[0064] When both rooms have cooling requirements, calculate the absolute temperature difference between the actual temperature of each room and the corresponding set target temperature.

[0065] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments meets the preset priority cooling conditions, then one of the compartments is selected as the priority cooling compartment and the other compartment is selected as the secondary cooling compartment.

[0066] In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority refrigeration compartment, while the other switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary refrigeration compartment, until the actual temperature of the priority refrigeration compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0067] This invention addresses the scenario where both compartments require cooling. First, it determines whether preset priority cooling conditions are met. If these conditions are met, one compartment is selected as the priority cooling compartment, and the other as the secondary cooling compartment. In both refrigeration systems, two compressors are started simultaneously, and two switching valves are controlled: one valve connects to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, and the other connects to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment. In this way, the two refrigeration systems work together to cool the priority cooling compartment, prioritizing its cooling needs. This design effectively meets the requirements for personalized temperature control in multiple compartments, improving overall system performance.

[0068] Furthermore, in a first optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0069] When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is being powered on for the first time, it will control both compressors to continue running, and control one of the switching valves to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, while controlling the other switching valve to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment, until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0070] This invention addresses the initial power-on phase of a refrigerator by identifying a priority cooling compartment and a secondary cooling compartment. When the cooling demand of the priority cooling compartment is met, but the secondary cooling compartment still requires cooling, two compressors continue to operate, each controlling one of two switching valves: one valve connects to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, and the other valve connects to the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment. This allows for the combined cooling of the secondary cooling compartment using two refrigeration systems, thus satisfying its cooling needs. This design effectively meets the requirements for personalized temperature control in multiple compartments, improving the overall system performance.

[0071] Furthermore, in a first optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0072] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling conditions, then in both refrigeration systems, both compressors will be started and both switching valves will be connected to the main evaporator until the actual temperature of one of the compartments reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0073] This invention addresses the scenario where both compartments require cooling. First, it determines whether preset priority cooling conditions are met. If not, it controls both compressors in the two refrigeration systems to start simultaneously and simultaneously controls both switching valves to connect to the main evaporator. In this way, two refrigeration systems can independently cool each compartment, meeting its individual cooling needs. This design effectively meets the requirements for personalized temperature control in multiple compartments, improving overall system performance.

[0074] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the temperature control process of the refrigerator during its first power-on will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0075] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, when the refrigerator is first powered on, the target temperature Tset1 of the first compartment C1 and the target temperature Tset2 of the second compartment C2 are set. The first compressor 11 and the second compressor 12 start running at preset minimum speeds, respectively, and monitor the actual temperature Tact1 of the first compartment C1 and the actual temperature Tact2 of the second compartment C2 in real time. The absolute temperature difference ΔT1 (ΔT1=|Tset1-Tact1|) between the actual temperature Tact1 and the target temperature Tset1 of the first compartment C1, and the absolute temperature difference ΔT2 (ΔT2=|Tset2-Tact2|) between the actual temperature Tact2 and the target temperature Tset2 of the second compartment C2 are calculated. It is then determined whether the magnitude of the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments meets the preset priority cooling conditions.

[0076] If ΔT1-ΔT2>T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments satisfies the preset priority cooling condition. The first compartment C1 is designated as the priority cooling compartment, while the second compartment C2 is designated as the secondary cooling compartment.

[0077] In the first refrigeration system, the first switching valve 41 is switched to the first outlet end, that is, the first switching valve 41 connects the first main evaporator 61, and the refrigerant flows to the first throttling member 51. In the second refrigeration system, the second switching valve 42 is switched to the fourth outlet end, that is, the second switching valve 42 connects the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, and the refrigerant flows to the fourth throttling member 54. At this time, the two refrigeration systems jointly cool the priority refrigeration compartment. During this cooling process, according to the preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased in sequence, and it is ensured that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed the preset speed threshold (i.e., N1) until the actual temperature of the first compartment C1 reaches the target temperature. It should be particularly noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are stopped from increasing.

[0078] Until the actual temperature Tact1 of the first compartment C1 reaches the target temperature Tset1. At this time, the actual temperature Tact2 of the second compartment C2 has not reached the target temperature Tset2. In the first refrigeration system, the first switching valve 41 is switched to the second outlet end, that is, the first switching valve 41 connects the second auxiliary evaporator 62, and the refrigerant flows to the second throttling member 52. In the second refrigeration system, the second switching valve 42 is switched to the third outlet end, that is, the second switching valve 42 connects the third main evaporator 63, and the refrigerant flows to the third throttling member 53, so as to realize the cooling of the secondary refrigeration compartment by the joint action of the two refrigeration systems. During this cooling process, according to the preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased in sequence, and it is ensured that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed the preset speed threshold (i.e., N1) until the actual temperature of the second compartment C2 reaches the target temperature.

[0079] Finally, when the actual temperatures of both compartments reach the corresponding target temperatures, the operation of the two compressors is controlled to stop. It should be particularly noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are stopped from increasing.

[0080] If ΔT1 - ΔT2 < T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments meets the preset priority refrigeration condition. The second compartment C2 is used as the priority refrigeration compartment, while the first compartment C1 is used as the secondary refrigeration compartment. The temperature control method is similar to the foregoing.

[0081] If -T1 < ΔT1 - ΔT2 < T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority refrigeration condition.

[0082] In the first refrigeration system, the first switching valve 41 switches to the first outlet end, meaning the first switching valve 41 connects to the first main evaporator 61, and the refrigerant flows to the first throttling element 51. In the second refrigeration system, the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet end, meaning the second switching valve 42 connects to the third main evaporator 63, and the refrigerant flows to the third throttling element 53. At this time, the first refrigeration system only cools the first compartment C1, and the second refrigeration system only cools the second compartment C2. During this cooling process, according to a preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased sequentially, ensuring that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed a preset speed threshold (i.e., N1). It should be noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the increase in the speed of the two compressors is stopped.

[0083] Therefore, this invention not only meets the needs of personalized temperature control in multiple compartments, but also effectively avoids the greater noise generated by the superposition of the sounds of two compressors, thereby significantly improving the overall performance of the refrigerator.

[0084] Furthermore, in a second optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0085] When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is not being powered on for the first time, the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment will stop running, and the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment will continue running. At the same time, another switching valve will be controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0086] This invention addresses the issue of refrigerators during non-initial power-on phases. By identifying a priority cooling compartment and a secondary cooling compartment, when the cooling demand of the priority cooling compartment is met while the secondary cooling compartment still requires cooling, the two compressors are controlled separately: the compressor in the refrigeration system containing the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment stops operating, while the compressor in the refrigeration system containing the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment continues operating, and a switching valve is controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment. In this way, a single refrigeration system can be used to cool the secondary cooling compartment to meet its cooling needs. This design not only effectively meets the needs of personalized temperature control for multiple compartments but also achieves energy savings, thereby improving the overall system performance.

[0087] Furthermore, in a second optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0088] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling conditions, then in both refrigeration systems, both compressors will be started and both switching valves will be connected to the main evaporator until the actual temperature of one of the compartments reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

[0089] This invention addresses the scenario where both compartments require cooling. First, it determines whether preset priority cooling conditions are met. If not, it controls both compressors in the two refrigeration systems to start simultaneously and simultaneously controls both switching valves to connect to the main evaporator. In this way, two refrigeration systems can independently cool each compartment, meeting its individual cooling needs. This design effectively meets the requirements for personalized temperature control in multiple compartments, improving overall system performance.

[0090] Furthermore, in a second optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0091] When only one room has a cooling requirement, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the room with the cooling requirement is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the main evaporator to cool only the room with the cooling requirement.

[0092] This invention addresses situations where only a single room requires cooling. It employs a single refrigeration system to cool the specific room, thus meeting its cooling needs. This design is highly effective in applications involving multiple rooms where only some require temperature control, demonstrating broad adaptability.

[0093] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the temperature control process of the refrigerator during non-first power-on will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, during the non-initial power-on operation phase, at the current time k1, when the first compartment C1 has a cooling demand while the second compartment C2 does not, only the first refrigeration system needs to be started, and the second refrigeration system does not need to be started. At this time, the first compressor 11 in the first refrigeration system starts running, and the first switching valve 41 switches to the first outlet end, that is, the first switching valve 41 connects to the first main evaporator 61, and the refrigerant flows to the first throttling element 51, cooling only the first compartment C1.

[0095] At the current time k1+M1, the second chamber C2 has a cooling requirement. At this time, both the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2 have cooling requirements. Calculate the absolute temperature difference ΔT1 (ΔT1=|Treset1-Tact1|) between the actual temperature Tact1 and the target temperature Tset1 of the first chamber C1, and the absolute temperature difference ΔT2 (ΔT2=|Treset2-Tact2|) between the actual temperature Tact2 and the target temperature Tset2 of the second chamber C2. Determine whether the magnitude of the absolute temperature difference between the two chambers meets the preset priority cooling condition.

[0096] If -T1≤ΔT1-ΔT2≤T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling condition.

[0097] In the first refrigeration system, the first compressor 11 continues to operate, and the first switching valve 41 remains connected to the first main evaporator 61, with refrigerant flowing to the first throttling element 51. In the second refrigeration system, the first compressor 12 starts operating, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet, i.e., the second switching valve 42 connects to the third main evaporator 63, with refrigerant flowing to the third throttling element 53. At this time, the first refrigeration system only cools the first compartment C1, and the second refrigeration system only cools the second compartment C2. During this cooling process, according to a preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased sequentially, ensuring that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed a preset speed threshold (i.e., N1). It should be noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the speed increase of the two compressors is stopped. Finally, both compartments reach their corresponding target temperatures, and both compressors stop operating.

[0098] If ΔT1-ΔT2>T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments satisfies the preset priority cooling condition. The first compartment C1 is designated as the priority cooling compartment, while the second compartment C2 is designated as the secondary cooling compartment.

[0099] In the first refrigeration system, the first compressor 11 continues to operate, and the first switching valve 41 remains connected to the first main evaporator 61, with refrigerant flowing to the first throttling element 51. In the second refrigeration system, the second compressor 12 starts operating, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the fourth outlet, meaning the second switching valve 42 connects to the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, with refrigerant flowing to the fourth throttling element 54. At this time, the two refrigeration systems work together to cool the priority cooling compartment. During this cooling process, according to a preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased sequentially, ensuring that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed a preset speed threshold (i.e., N1), until the actual temperature of the first compartment C1 reaches the target temperature. It should be noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the speed increase of the two compressors is stopped.

[0100] The cooling process continues until the actual temperature (Tact1) of the first compartment C1 reaches the target temperature (Tset1). At this point, the actual temperature (Tact2) of the second compartment C2 has not yet reached the target temperature (Tset2). When the first refrigeration system is shut down, the first compressor 11 stops operating. In the second refrigeration system, the second compressor 12 continues to operate, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet, connecting the second main evaporator 63. The refrigerant flows to the third throttling element 53, allowing the second refrigeration system to cool only the second compartment C2. Finally, both compartments reach their corresponding target temperatures, and both compressors stop operating.

[0101] If ΔT1-ΔT2<-T1, the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments satisfies the preset priority cooling condition. The first compartment C2 is designated as the priority cooling compartment, while the second compartment C2 is designated as the secondary cooling compartment.

[0102] In the first refrigeration system, the first compressor continues to operate, and the first switching valve 41 switches to the second outlet, meaning the first switching valve 41 connects to the second auxiliary evaporator 62, and the refrigerant flows to the second throttling element 52. In the second refrigeration system, the second compressor starts operating, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet, meaning the second switching valve 42 connects to the third main evaporator 63, and the refrigerant flows to the third throttling element 53. At this time, the two refrigeration systems work together to cool the priority cooling compartment. During this cooling process, according to a preset staggered speed-up strategy, the speeds of the two compressors are alternately increased, ensuring that the sum of the speeds of the two compressors (i.e., n1 + n2) does not exceed the preset speed threshold (i.e., N1), until the actual temperature of the second compartment C2 reaches the target temperature. It should be noted that if the sum of the speeds of the two compressors reaches the preset speed threshold, the speed increase of the two compressors is stopped.

[0103] The cooling process continues until the actual temperature (Tact2) of the second compartment C2 reaches the target temperature (Tset2). At this point, the actual temperature (Tact1) of the first compartment C1 has not yet reached the target temperature (Tset1). The second refrigeration system is then shut down, and the second compressor 12 stops operating. In the first refrigeration system, the first compressor 11 continues to operate, and the first switching valve 41 switches to the first outlet end, meaning the first switching valve 41 connects to the first main evaporator 61, and the refrigerant flows to the first throttling element 51, thus utilizing the first refrigeration system to cool only the first compartment C1. Finally, both compartments reach their corresponding target temperatures, and both compressors stop operating.

[0104] Furthermore, in a third optional embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator temperature control method further includes the following steps:

[0105] If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling condition, but meets the preset energy-saving cooling condition, then one of the cooling systems will be started to cool the two compartments, or the two cooling systems will be started alternately in sequence according to the preset staggered start strategy to cool the two compartments.

[0106] This invention addresses the scenario where both compartments require cooling. While ensuring the temperature in each compartment reaches the target level, only one compressor is activated at a time. The noise generated by a single compressor is significantly lower than the combined noise of two compressors operating simultaneously, thus significantly reducing the noise during refrigerator operation and substantially improving the overall performance of the refrigerator.

[0107] The two compartments are designated as the first compartment and the second compartment. The two refrigeration systems are activated alternately according to a pre-set staggered start-up strategy to cool the two compartments. Specifically:

[0108] First, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first compartment is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so as to cool both compartments at the same time;

[0109] When the first room no longer needs cooling but the second room still needs cooling, shut down the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first room is located, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the second room is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the main evaporator, so that only the second room is cooled;

[0110] When the second compartment still needs cooling and the first compartment needs cooling again, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is selected, and the corresponding switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so that both compartments are cooled at the same time.

[0111] When the second compartment no longer needs cooling but the first compartment still needs cooling, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is shut down, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the first compartment is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator to cool both compartments at the same time.

[0112] This process continues until neither room requires cooling.

[0113] This invention addresses the scenario where both compartments require cooling by employing a staggered dual-compressor start-up mechanism, ensuring that the two compressors do not start simultaneously. Through this staggered start-up, the noise generated by a single compressor is significantly lower than the combined noise of both compressors running concurrently, thereby significantly reducing the noise level during refrigerator operation and substantially improving the overall performance of the refrigerator.

[0114] To facilitate the understanding of the present invention, the temperature control process of the refrigerator in the energy-saving state will be elaborated in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0115] As Figure 1 , Figure 6 shown, in the non-first power-on operation stage of the refrigerator, at the current k1 moment, when the first compartment C1 has a refrigeration demand while the second compartment C2 has no refrigeration demand, only the first refrigeration system needs to be started, and the second refrigeration system does not need to be started. At this time, the first compressor 11 in the first refrigeration system starts to operate, and the first switching valve 41 switches to the first outlet end, that is, the first switching valve 41 connects the first main evaporator 61, and the refrigerant then flows to the first throttling element 51, only refrigerating the first compartment C1.

[0116] At the current k1+M1 moment, the second compartment C2 has a refrigeration demand. At this time, both the first compartment C1 and the second compartment C2 have refrigeration demands. Calculate the absolute temperature difference ΔT1 (ΔT1 = |Tset1 - Tact1|) between the actual temperature Tact1 and the target temperature Tset1 of the first compartment C1, and the absolute temperature difference ΔT2 (ΔT2 = |Tset2 - Tact2|) between the actual temperature Tact2 and the target temperature Tset2 of the second compartment C2. Determine whether the absolute temperature differences of the two compartments meet the preset energy-saving refrigeration conditions.

[0117] If -T2 < ΔT1 - ΔT2 < T2 (T2 < T1), the absolute temperature differences of the two compartments meet the preset energy-saving refrigeration conditions.

[0118] In the first refrigeration system, the first compressor 11 continues to operate, and the first switching valve 41 switches to the second outlet end, and the first switching valve 41 connects the second auxiliary evaporator 62, so as to realize cooling the first compartment C1 and the second compartment C2 simultaneously by using the first refrigeration system.

[0119] At the current k1+M2 moment, the actual temperature Tact1 of the first compartment C1 has reached the target temperature Tset1, while the actual temperature Tact2 of the second compartment C2 has not reached the target temperature Tset2. At this time, the first refrigeration system is turned off, and the first compressor 11 stops operating. Immediately, the second refrigeration system is started, the second compressor 12 starts to operate, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the third outlet end, that is, the second switching valve 42 connects the third main evaporator 63, and the refrigerant flows to the third throttling element 53, only refrigerating the second compartment C2.

[0120] At the current moment k1+M3, the actual temperature Tact2 of the second compartment C2 has not yet reached the target temperature Tset2, while the first compartment C1 has a cooling demand. At this time, the second compressor 12 in the second refrigeration system continues to operate, and the second switching valve 42 switches to the fourth outlet end, that is, the second switching valve 42 connects to the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, and the refrigerant flows to the fourth throttling element 54, realizing simultaneous cooling of the two compartments.

[0121] In this manner, the two compressors always start and run in staggered shifts until the actual temperature of both compartments reaches the target temperature, thus eliminating the need for cooling in either compartment.

[0122] Furthermore, in a fourth optional embodiment of the present invention, one of the compartments is determined to be a special freezing compartment and the other is a regular refrigeration compartment based on the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments;

[0123] In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment, while the other switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment.

[0124] When the sum of the speeds of the two compressors does not exceed the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are continuously increased until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

[0125] When the combined speed of the two compressors exceeds the preset speed threshold, the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment is shut down, and the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment is selected. The corresponding switching valve is controlled to continue running at the preset maximum speed until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

[0126] This invention can not only quickly meet the specific refrigeration needs of a single compartment, but also effectively reduce operating noise and avoid excessive noise by adjusting the sum of the speeds of the two compressors or switching to the operation of a single compressor when appropriate.

[0127] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the temperature control process of the refrigerator under specific freezing conditions (such as deep freezing or quick freezing) will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] like Figure 1 , Figure 7 As shown, the first compartment C1 is set to start the deep freeze or quick freeze function, for example, the target freezing temperature is set to -26℃ or -33℃; at the same time, the second compartment C2 is set to start the normal refrigeration function.

[0129] Determine whether the first refrigeration system is running; if the first refrigeration system is running, then determine whether its refrigerant is flowing to the first throttling device 51. If it is flowing to the first throttling device 51, no adjustment is needed; if it is not flowing to the first throttling device 51, control the first switching valve 41 to connect the first main evaporator 61, so that the refrigerant flows to the first throttling device 51, and control the first compressor 11 to continuously increase its speed.

[0130] If the first refrigeration system is in the off state, control the first compressor 11 to start running and continuously increase the speed, while controlling the first switching valve 41 to connect the first main evaporator 61, so that the refrigerant flows to the first throttling element 51.

[0131] Similarly, determine whether the second refrigeration system is running; if the second refrigeration system is running, then determine whether its refrigerant is flowing to the fourth throttling element 54. If it is flowing to the fourth throttling element 54, no adjustment is needed; if it is not flowing to the fourth throttling element 54, control the second switching valve 42 to connect the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, so that the refrigerant flows to the fourth throttling element 54, and control the second compressor 12 to continuously increase its speed.

[0132] If the second refrigeration system is in the off state, control the second compressor 12 to start running and continuously increase the speed, while controlling the second switching valve 42 to connect the fourth auxiliary evaporator 64, so that the refrigerant flows to the fourth throttling device 54.

[0133] The system monitors in real time whether the sum of the speeds of the two compressors exceeds a preset speed threshold. If it does, the second refrigeration system is shut down, and the first compressor 11 in the first refrigeration system is controlled to continue running at a preset maximum speed until the actual temperature of the first compartment C1 reaches the target freezing temperature. If the speed does not exceed the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are continuously increased until the actual temperature of the first compartment C1 reaches the target freezing temperature.

[0134] The present invention aims to achieve efficient collaboration between two refrigeration systems to meet the needs of personalized temperature control in multiple rooms, thereby improving the overall performance of the system.

[0135] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for temperature control of a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising two compartments and a non-cascade refrigeration system; the non-cascade refrigeration system comprises two independent refrigeration systems; each refrigeration system comprises a compressor, a condenser, a switching valve, a throttling component, a main evaporator, and a secondary evaporator connected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the main evaporator and the secondary evaporator are respectively connected to the two outlet ends of the switching valve; each compartment is equipped with one main evaporator and one secondary evaporator; characterized in that, The temperature control method of the refrigerator includes: When both rooms have cooling requirements, calculate the absolute temperature difference between the actual temperature of each room and the corresponding set target temperature. If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments meets the preset priority cooling conditions, then one of the compartments is selected as the priority cooling compartment and the other compartment is selected as the secondary cooling compartment. In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority refrigeration compartment, while the other switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the secondary refrigeration compartment, until the actual temperature of the priority refrigeration compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

2. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is being powered on for the first time, it will control both compressors to continue running, and control one of the switching valves to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment, while controlling the other switching valve to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment, until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

3. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the priority cooling compartment no longer needs cooling, but the secondary cooling compartment still needs cooling, if the refrigerator is not being powered on for the first time, the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the priority cooling compartment will stop running, and the compressor connected to the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment will continue running. At the same time, another switching valve will be controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the secondary cooling compartment until the actual temperature of the secondary cooling compartment reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

4. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling conditions, then in both refrigeration systems, both compressors will be started and both switching valves will be connected to the main evaporator until the actual temperature of one of the compartments reaches the corresponding set target temperature.

5. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: If the absolute temperature difference between the two compartments does not meet the preset priority cooling condition, but meets the preset energy-saving cooling condition, then one of the cooling systems will be started to cool the two compartments, or the two cooling systems will be started alternately in sequence according to the preset staggered start strategy to cool the two compartments.

6. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The two compartments are designated as the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively. The specific steps of alternately activating the two refrigeration systems to refrigerate the two compartments according to a preset staggered activation strategy are as follows: First, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first compartment is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so as to cool both compartments at the same time; When the first room no longer needs cooling but the second room still needs cooling, shut down the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the first room is located, select the refrigeration system where the main evaporator corresponding to the second room is located, control the corresponding compressor to start running, and control the corresponding switching valve to connect the main evaporator, so that only the second room is cooled; When the second compartment still needs cooling and the first compartment needs cooling again, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is selected, and the corresponding switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator, so that both compartments are cooled at the same time. When the second compartment no longer needs cooling but the first compartment still needs cooling, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the second compartment is shut down, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the first compartment is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the auxiliary evaporator to cool both compartments at the same time. This process continues until neither room requires cooling.

7. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The absolute temperature difference between the two compartments determines which compartment is designated as a special freezing compartment and the other as a regular refrigeration compartment. In both refrigeration systems, both compressors are started and running. One switching valve is controlled to connect the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment, while the other switching valve is controlled to connect the auxiliary evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment. When the sum of the speeds of the two compressors does not exceed the preset speed threshold, the speeds of the two compressors are continuously increased until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

8. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: When the combined speed of the two compressors exceeds the preset speed threshold, the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the ordinary refrigerator compartment is shut down, and the refrigeration system with the main evaporator corresponding to the special freezer compartment is selected. The corresponding switching valve is controlled to continue running at the preset maximum speed until the actual temperature of the special freezer compartment reaches the target freezing temperature.

9. The refrigerator temperature control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When only one room has a cooling requirement, the refrigeration system corresponding to the main evaporator of the room with the cooling requirement is selected, the corresponding compressor is started and started, and the corresponding switching valve is connected to the main evaporator to cool only the room with the cooling requirement.

10. A refrigerator, comprising two compartments and a non-cascade refrigeration system; the non-cascade refrigeration system consists of two independent refrigeration systems; each refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser, a switching valve, a throttling assembly, a main evaporator, and a secondary evaporator connected in sequence to form a refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the main evaporator and the secondary evaporator are respectively connected to two outlet ends of the switching valve; each compartment is equipped with one main evaporator and one secondary evaporator; characterized in that, The refrigerator's controller is configured to implement the refrigerator temperature control method as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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