Refrigerator and control method thereof

Abstract

The control method comprises the steps that after a freezing chamber operates in a refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of a refrigeration chamber is larger than a set first starting temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezing chamber is larger than a set second starting temperature, a compressor and a draught fan are controlled to operate; when the freezing temperature of the freezing chamber reaches a set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigeration air door is controlled to be in an open state, and the fan is controlled to be kept in a running state, so that the refrigerator enters a refrigeration cooling mode; and in the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration chamber reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the reduction degree is smaller than the set degree threshold value, the refrigeration air door is controlled to be closed, and the draught fan is controlled to stop running. According to the embodiment of the invention, the compressor, the fan and the refrigeration air door of the refrigerator are controlled according to the temperatures of the refrigeration chamber and the freezing chamber, so that the freezing chamber realizes a refrigeration function, the requirement of a user on a refrigeration space is met on the premise of not changing hardware of the refrigerator, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and more particularly to a refrigerator and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards improve, refrigerators have become a daily necessity. However, the space of the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment in current refrigerators is fixed. It is impossible to convert the freezer compartment into a refrigerator compartment without changing the hardware. This cannot meet the requirements of users who have a large demand for refrigeration space, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator and its control method, which can control the refrigerator's compressor, fan, and refrigerator damper according to the temperatures of the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, so that the freezer compartment can achieve the refrigeration function. Without changing the refrigerator hardware, it meets the user's needs for refrigeration space and improves the user experience.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of the present invention provide a refrigerator, comprising:

[0005] The compartments, including refrigerator and freezer compartments, are used for storing items;

[0006] The refrigeration system, which powers the refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator, includes a compressor, evaporator, pressure reducer, and condenser.

[0007] Air ducts are used to direct the cooling energy generated by the refrigeration system into the room.

[0008] Fans, located inside air ducts, are used to blow cooling energy into the compartments;

[0009] Refrigeration damper, located on the air duct, is used to control the amount of cold air entering the refrigeration compartment;

[0010] A freezing temperature detection device, located inside the freezing chamber, is used to detect the freezing temperature;

[0011] A refrigeration temperature detection device is installed inside the refrigeration room to detect the refrigeration temperature;

[0012] Controller, used for:

[0013] After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run.

[0014] When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to keep running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0015] In the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set threshold, the refrigeration damper is closed and the fan stops running.

[0016] As an improvement to the above solution, the step of controlling the compressor and the fan to operate after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, includes:

[0017] After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration damper is controlled to open, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration mode.

[0018] When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, including:

[0019] In the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment has not yet reached the set first stop temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the set second stop temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigeration damper remains open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0020] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is also used for:

[0021] In the refrigeration mode, the status parameters of the freezer compartment are obtained, wherein the status parameters include at least one of door opening time and temperature drop rate;

[0022] The fan speed is adjusted according to the state parameters, wherein if the state parameters include the door opening duration, the fan speed is negatively correlated with the door opening duration; if the state parameters include the temperature drop rate, the fan speed is positively correlated with the temperature drop rate.

[0023] As an improvement to the above solution, after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, and the compressor and the fan are controlled to operate, the solution further includes:

[0024] In the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the first shutdown temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment does not reach the second shutdown temperature, the refrigeration damper is closed, and the compressor and the fan remain running to allow the refrigerator to enter the freezing and cooling mode.

[0025] In the refrigeration and cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the freezer chamber reaches the second shutdown temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to stop running.

[0026] As an improvement to the above solution, the step of controlling the compressor and the fan to operate after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, includes:

[0027] After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration damper is controlled to close, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing mode.

[0028] When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, including:

[0029] In the freezing mode, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator damper is controlled to open, and the fan remains running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0030] As an improvement to the above solution, the first shutdown temperature is greater than the second shutdown temperature.

[0031] As an improvement to the above scheme, the degree of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is the temperature difference before and after a set duration of the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment, or the rate of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0032] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is also used for:

[0033] Based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's display screen or based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's hardware switch, the operating mode of the freezer compartment is controlled to switch between refrigeration mode and freezing mode.

[0034] As an improvement to the above solution, the controller is further configured to:

[0035] After the freezer compartment is operating in freezing mode, the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment are refrigerated using conventional refrigerator control methods.

[0036] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of the present invention also provide a refrigerator control method, comprising:

[0037] After the refrigerator freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the refrigerator compressor and fan will be controlled to run.

[0038] When the freezing temperature reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator compartment's air damper is open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0039] In the refrigeration cooling mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set threshold, the refrigeration damper is closed and the fan stops running.

[0040] Compared to existing technologies, the refrigerator and its control method disclosed in this invention, firstly, after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, the compressor and fan are controlled to operate. Then, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches a set second stop temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop operating, the refrigeration damper is controlled to be open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters a refrigeration cooling mode. Finally, in the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches a set first stop temperature or the degree of temperature drop is less than a set threshold, the refrigeration damper is controlled to close and the fan is stopped. Therefore, this invention, by controlling the refrigerator's compressor, fan, and refrigeration damper based on the temperatures of the refrigerator and freezer compartments, enables the freezer compartment to achieve its refrigeration function, meeting the user's need for refrigeration space without changing the refrigerator hardware, and improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2This is a perspective view of the refrigerator door provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 5 This is a first working flowchart of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 6 This is a second workflow diagram of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 7 This is a third workflow diagram of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 8 This is the fourth workflow diagram of the controller provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0049] Figure 9 This is the fifth workflow diagram of the controller provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0050] Figure 10 This is the sixth workflow diagram of the controller provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0051] Figure 11 This is the seventh workflow diagram of the controller provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0052] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of a refrigerator control method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Among them, 100 is the cabinet, 200 is the door, 210 is the outer shell of the door, 220 is the inner liner of the door, 230 is the upper cover, and 240 is the lower cover; 1 is the compressor, 2 is the condenser, 3 is the anti-condensation pipe, 4 is the dryer filter, 5 is the pressure reducer, 6 is the evaporator, 7 is the gas-liquid separator, 8 is the fan, 11 is the refrigerator compartment, 12 is the freezer compartment, 13 is the air duct, 14 is the refrigerator air damper, 111 is the refrigerator temperature detection device, and 121 is the freezer temperature detection device. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0055] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They 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, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0056] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0058] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator in this embodiment has an approximately cuboid shape and includes a cabinet 100 defining a storage space and multiple doors 200 disposed at the opening of the cabinet 100. See also... Figure 2 As shown, the door 200 includes a door outer shell 210 located outside the cabinet 100, a door inner liner 220 located inside the cabinet 100, an upper end cover 230, a lower end cover 240, and an insulation layer located between the door outer shell 210, the door inner liner 220, the upper end cover 230, and the lower end cover 240; typically, the insulation layer is filled with foam material. The cabinet 100 has a chamber, which includes a component storage chamber for placing components in the refrigerator, such as the compressor, and a storage space for storing food, etc. The refrigerator in this embodiment includes a refrigeration system, see [link to documentation]. Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the refrigeration system, which is located in the component storage cavity and provides power for the refrigerator's refrigeration cycle. It includes a compressor, evaporator, pressure reducer, and condenser. The storage space can be divided into multiple compartments, which can be configured as refrigerator compartments, freezer compartments, etc., depending on their purpose. Each compartment corresponds to one or more doors, for example, in... Figure 1 The upper compartment has double doors. These doors can be pivotally mounted at the opening of the cabinet or can open like drawers for drawer-style storage.

[0059] See Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration system in a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigeration system includes a compressor 1, a condenser 2, an anti-condensation pipe 3, a dryer filter 4, a pressure reducer 5, an evaporator 6, and a gas-liquid separator 7. The working process of the refrigeration system includes a compression process, a condensation process, a throttling process, and an evaporation process.

[0060] Among them, combined Figure 3 The compression process is as follows: When the refrigerator power cord is plugged in and the thermostat contacts are closed, compressor 1 starts working. Low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into compressor 1 and compressed into high-temperature, high-pressure superheated gas in the cylinder of compressor 1 before being discharged into condenser 2. The condensation process is as follows: The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas dissipates heat through condenser 2, and its temperature continuously decreases, gradually cooling into room-temperature, high-pressure saturated vapor, and further cooling into saturated liquid, at which point the temperature no longer decreases. This temperature is called the condensation temperature, and the pressure of the refrigerant remains almost constant throughout the entire condensation process. The throttling process is as follows: After passing through... After condensation, the saturated liquid refrigerant flows into the pressure reducer 5 (e.g., a capillary tube) after being filtered to remove moisture and impurities by the dryer filter 4. The pressure is reduced by the pressure reducer, turning the refrigerant into a room-temperature, low-pressure wet vapor. The evaporation process is as follows: the room-temperature, low-pressure wet vapor begins to absorb heat and vaporize in the evaporator 6, which not only lowers the temperature of the evaporator and its surroundings but also turns the refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. The refrigerant exiting the evaporator 6 passes through the gas-liquid separator 7 and returns to the compressor 1, repeating the above process to transfer heat from inside the refrigerator to the outside air, thus achieving the purpose of refrigeration.

[0061] like Figure 4As shown, the refrigerator also includes a fan 8, an air duct 13, and a refrigerator damper 14 disposed on the air duct 13. The compartments include a refrigerator compartment 11 and a freezer compartment 12. The fan 8 continuously draws air into the fins of the evaporator 6 for heat exchange, and simultaneously sends the cooled air, after absorbing heat in the evaporator 6, through the air duct 13 to the refrigerator compartment 11 and the freezer compartment 12. This continuous air circulation within the storage compartments achieves the purpose of lowering the temperature. The amount of cold air entering the refrigerator compartment 11 is controlled by adjusting the opening of the refrigerator damper 14. A refrigerator temperature detection device 111 is installed on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 11 to detect the refrigerator temperature; a freezer temperature detection device 121 is installed on the inner wall of the freezer compartment 12 to detect the freezer temperature. The refrigerator temperature detection devices 111 and 121 can be temperature sensors, with their probes exposed in the storage space of their respective compartments to detect the temperature of the compartment. The structure of the refrigerator is not limited to... Figure 2 The specific structure, the number of refrigeration temperature detection device 111 and freezing temperature detection device 121 is not limited to 1, but can also be 2, 3, etc., and the installation position of refrigeration temperature detection device 111 and freezing temperature detection device 121 is not limited to Figure 2 The refrigeration air vents can be set on the upper wall, lower wall, left wall, right wall, etc. of the compartment. The number of refrigeration air vents is not limited to 1; it can also be 2, 3, etc. The location of the refrigeration air vents is not limited to the specific locations mentioned above. They can be set between the air outlet of the freezer compartment closest to the freezer compartment and the air outlet of the refrigerator compartment closest to the freezer compartment, or they can be set at the air outlet of the refrigerator compartment. As long as the refrigeration air vents can prevent cold air from entering the refrigerator compartment when they are completely closed under ideal conditions, it is sufficient.

[0062] It is worth noting that a temperature sensor is a sensor that can sense temperature and convert it into a usable output signal. According to the measurement method, it can be divided into two main categories: contact and non-contact. Based on the sensor material and electronic component characteristics, it can be divided into two categories: resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) and thermocouples. Manufacturers can choose the specific type of temperature sensor according to actual application requirements. The specific types of the refrigeration temperature detection device 111 and the freezing temperature detection device 121, as well as their specific installation locations in the compartments, can be set according to actual needs and are not limited here. The structure of a refrigerator is not limited to... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the refrigerator can also be equipped with a freezer damper to control the amount of cold air entering the freezer compartment.

[0063] Specifically, the refrigerator also includes a controller. In this embodiment of the invention, the controller is electrically connected to each of the aforementioned controllable devices. The controller is configured to: after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, control the compressor and the fan to operate; when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches a set second stop temperature, control the compressor to stop operating, control the refrigeration damper to be in an open state, and control the fan to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters a refrigeration cooling mode; in the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment reaches a set first stop temperature or the degree of decrease is less than a set degree threshold, control the refrigeration damper to close and the fan to stop operating.

[0064] For example, see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a first workflow diagram of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller is used to execute steps S11 to S17:

[0065] S11. Obtain the operating mode of the freezer compartment, the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment, and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment, and then proceed to step S12.

[0066] Specifically, the freezer compartment operates in two modes: freezing mode and refrigeration mode. In refrigeration mode, the freezer performs its refrigeration function; in freezing mode, it performs its original freezing function. Refrigeration and freezing temperatures can be acquired in real-time or periodically, such as every minute from the refrigeration temperature detection device (freezing temperature detection device). Furthermore, because the temperatures in the refrigerator and freezer compartments may fluctuate slightly, and the refrigeration and freezing temperature detection devices may produce false readings, the current temperatures of the refrigerator and freezer compartments can be obtained by repeatedly collecting data over a short period, removing outliers, and then averaging the data. It is worth noting that the specific values ​​for the data collection cycle for the refrigeration and freezing temperatures can be set by the manufacturer based on actual conditions and are not limited here.

[0067] S12. Determine whether the freezer is operating in refrigeration mode. If yes, proceed to step S13. If no, proceed to other control logic, such as step S44.

[0068] Specifically, the start-up temperatures for refrigeration mode and freezing mode are different, and the control logic of components such as compressor, fan, and refrigeration damper are also different. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the operating mode of the freezer compartment first.

[0069] S13. Determine whether the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature. If yes, proceed to step S14; otherwise, return to step S11.

[0070] It's worth noting that each compartment has its own start-up and stop-off temperatures, which are preset. Generally, the manufacturer can set multiple settings, each corresponding to a specific compartment's set temperature. The start-up and stop temperatures are based on these compartment set temperatures. Typically, the start-up temperature is higher than the compartment set temperature, and the difference between the two is less than a preset first threshold (specific data depends on actual conditions). Similarly, the stop-off temperature is lower than the compartment set temperature, and the difference is less than a preset second threshold (specific data depends on actual conditions). Alternatively, a setting knob can be installed on the refrigerator, allowing the user to adjust it to select a specific setting and determine the corresponding compartment set temperature, thus determining the start-up and stop temperatures. Another option is a display screen where the user inputs information to set the compartment set temperatures. It's important to note that the method for setting the compartment set temperatures can be customized based on actual application conditions and is not limited here. The set temperature of each compartment has a significant impact on the cooling demand. The lower the set temperature of each compartment, the greater the cooling demand of the refrigerator. It can be understood that the set temperature of the freezer compartment when it is running in refrigeration mode is higher than the set temperature of the freezer compartment when it is running in freezing mode.

[0071] For example, the typical temperature setting for a refrigerator compartment is between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. This temperature range is suitable for the preservation needs of most foods, including raw meat, fruits, vegetables, and yogurt. At this temperature, bacterial growth is relatively slow, effectively extending the shelf life of food. If the freezer compartment operates in refrigeration mode, its temperature setting is also between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. It is worth noting that the temperature setting range for each compartment is not limited to the specific data mentioned above. Manufacturers can set a selectable temperature range according to actual needs, which is not limited here.

[0072] S14. Control the operation of the compressor and the fan, and then proceed to step S15.

[0073] Specifically, when the refrigerator temperature in the refrigerator compartment exceeds the set first start-up temperature, it indicates that the refrigerator compartment temperature is too high and cooling is required to meet the refrigerator compartment's cooling needs. Similarly, when the freezer temperature in the freezer compartment exceeds the set second start-up temperature, it indicates that the freezer compartment temperature is too high and cooling is required to meet the freezer compartment's cooling needs. Therefore, the compressor and fan are controlled to operate. It is worth noting that compressor operation here does not mean that the compressor must run continuously, but rather that the compressor starts and operates according to the set control logic to perform refrigerator cooling.

[0074] S15. Obtain the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment and determine whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the set second shutdown temperature. If yes, proceed to step S16; otherwise, repeat step S15.

[0075] Specifically, during the refrigerator's cooling process, while the compressor is running, the evaporator exchanges heat with the air near the evaporator, causing the air temperature to drop. The fan blows the air towards the freezer compartment, allowing cold air to enter the freezer compartment. The freezing temperature of the freezer compartment continuously decreases. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment and determine whether the temperature has reached the set second stop temperature. When the freezing temperature reaches the second stop temperature, the following step S16 is executed to prevent the freezer compartment temperature from becoming too low.

[0076] S16. Control the compressor to stop running, control the refrigerator damper to be in the open state, control the fan to keep running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigerator cooling mode, and then proceed to step S17.

[0077] Specifically, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the second shutdown temperature, the compressor is stopped so that the refrigeration system no longer produces new cooling capacity. The refrigerator air damper is kept open, and the fan continues to run, sending some of the cooling capacity into the refrigerator compartment.

[0078] S17. In the refrigeration cooling mode, the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment is monitored. When the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set degree threshold, the refrigeration damper is controlled to close and the fan stops running.

[0079] Specifically, the purpose of operating the refrigeration cooling mode is to continuously introduce cold air into the refrigerator compartment until there is no excess cold air to significantly lower the refrigerator temperature, or until the refrigerator temperature reaches the set first shutdown temperature, at which point the refrigerator damper closes and the fan stops. It's understandable that users use the refrigerator compartment more frequently (opening and closing the refrigerator door more often). Therefore, compared to the freezer compartment, the refrigerator compartment is often located in a more convenient position for users. Even if a freezer compartment is converted into a refrigerator compartment, due to user habits and ease of access, the refrigerator compartment is generally used more frequently than the freezer compartment. Because the temperature in the refrigerator compartment drops more rapidly when the door is opened, after the compressor stops, as much cold air as possible is transferred to the refrigerator compartment to reduce the probability of frequent compressor starts due to excessively high refrigerator temperature.

[0080] Compared with the prior art, this embodiment controls the refrigerator's compressor, fan, and refrigerator damper according to the temperature of the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, so that the freezer compartment can realize the refrigeration function. Without changing the refrigerator hardware, it meets the user's needs for refrigeration space and improves the user experience.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the step of controlling the compressor and the fan to operate after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, includes: after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature, controlling the compressor and the fan to operate, and controlling the refrigeration damper to open, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode; the step of controlling the compressor to stop operating, controlling the refrigeration damper to be open, and controlling the fan to remain running when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second stop temperature, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, includes: when the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment has not yet reached the set first stop temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the set second stop temperature, controlling the compressor to stop operating, keeping the refrigeration damper open, and keeping the fan running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0082] Specifically, this embodiment further limits the refrigerator's activation of the cooling program due to excessively high refrigeration temperature in the refrigerator compartment. For example, see [link to example]. Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a second flowchart of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller is further configured to execute steps S18 to S24:

[0083] S18. Obtain the operating mode of the freezer compartment and the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment, and then proceed to step S19.

[0084] S19. Determine whether the freezer is operating in refrigeration mode. If yes, proceed to step S20. If no, proceed to other control logic, such as step S44.

[0085] Specifically, the start-up temperatures for refrigeration mode and freezing mode are different, and the control logic of components such as compressor, fan, and refrigeration damper are also different. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the operating mode of the freezer compartment first.

[0086] S20. Determine whether the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature. If yes, proceed to step S21; otherwise, proceed to other control logic, such as step S35.

[0087] S21. Control the compressor and the fan to operate, and control the refrigerator door to open so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration mode, and then proceed to step S22.

[0088] Specifically, when the refrigeration temperature in the refrigerator compartment is higher than the set first start-up temperature, it indicates that the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is too high and refrigeration is required to meet the refrigeration demand of the refrigerator compartment. At this time, the compressor and fan are started and the refrigerator air damper is opened. The fan blows the cold air generated by the refrigeration system to the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment to reduce the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment.

[0089] S22. Monitor the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment and the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment, and then proceed to step S23.

[0090] S23. Determine whether the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment has not reached the set first stop temperature and whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the set second stop temperature. If yes, proceed to step S24; otherwise, proceed to other control logic steps, such as step S31.

[0091] Specifically, when the compressor and fan are running and the refrigeration damper is open, the refrigerator and freezer compartments are waiting to cool down. At this time, the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, and the second shutdown temperature is close to the first shutdown temperature. Compared with the refrigerator compartment, the evaporator sends more cooling capacity to the freezer compartment. If the freezer compartment door is not opened or is opened less frequently, the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment will reach the second shutdown temperature first.

[0092] S24. Control the compressor to stop running, keep the refrigerator damper open, and keep the fan running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigerator cooling mode. Control the refrigerator to run in the refrigerator cooling mode. For specific operation methods, please refer to step S17.

[0093] Specifically, when the freezing temperature in the freezer compartment reaches the second shutdown temperature first, there is no need to supply cold energy to the freezer compartment. Therefore, the compressor is controlled to stop running, while the refrigerator air damper and fan remain open, allowing cold energy to continuously enter the refrigerator compartment until there is no excess cold energy to significantly lower the refrigerator temperature or until the refrigerator temperature has reached the set first shutdown temperature. At this point, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to close and the fan stops running, thereby reducing the probability of frequent compressor starts due to excessively high refrigerator temperature and avoiding frequent compressor starts.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the controller is further configured to: acquire state parameters of the freezer compartment in the refrigeration mode, wherein the state parameters include at least one of door opening duration and temperature drop rate; adjust the fan speed according to the state parameters, wherein if the state parameters include the door opening duration, the fan speed is negatively correlated with the door opening duration; and if the state parameters include the temperature drop rate, the fan speed is positively correlated with the temperature drop rate.

[0095] For example, see Figure 7 Figure 7 is a third working flowchart of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The controller is further configured to execute steps S25 to S28:

[0096] S25. Obtain the current operating mode of the refrigerator, and then proceed to step S26.

[0097] S26. Determine whether the refrigerator's current operating mode is refrigeration mode. If yes, proceed to step S27; otherwise, proceed to other control logic, such as step S35.

[0098] It is worth noting that the refrigerator's operating modes include refrigeration mode, freezer mode, refrigeration cooling mode, and freezer cooling mode. Refrigeration mode refers to the mode in which the refrigerator cools down when the freezer is operating in refrigeration mode and the refrigerator temperature is too high. In this mode, the refrigerator damper needs to be opened to allow cold air to enter the refrigerator compartment and lower its temperature. For the specific meanings of freezing mode, refrigeration cooling mode, and freezer cooling mode, please refer to the content of other implementation methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0099] S27. Monitor the freezer compartment door opening time and / or obtain the freezer compartment temperature drop rate, and then proceed to step S28.

[0100] Specifically, a door switch detection device is installed on the refrigerator to detect the door's open / closed state. A controller is connected to the door switch detection device to acquire the door's open / closed state data collected by the device and calculate parameters such as door opening duration and number of openings. The door switch detection device can be a door switch sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor. The specific type of door switch detection device and its installation location within the refrigerator can be configured according to actual needs and are not limited here.

[0101] S28. Adjust the fan speed according to the freezer compartment opening time and / or temperature drop rate.

[0102] Specifically, when the refrigerator is in refrigeration mode, if the freezer door is open, cold air will overflow from the freezer, affecting the rate at which the freezer temperature drops. This may cause the refrigerator compartment to reach the first stop temperature first. To ensure the freezer reaches the second stop temperature first, the compressor fan speed can be reduced by adjusting the freezer door opening time, the freezer temperature drop rate, or the refrigerator compartment temperature drop rate. Because the refrigerator compartment has a longer air duct and the airflow is upward, its air resistance is significantly greater than that of the freezer compartment. Therefore, the airflow to the refrigerator compartment is reduced, allowing the freezer to reach the second stop temperature first. The longer the freezer door is open or the slower the temperature drop rate, the longer it takes for the freezer to reach the second stop temperature. Reducing the fan speed allows more cold air to enter the freezer, enabling it to reach the second stop temperature more quickly and shortening the compressor's operating time.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, and after controlling the compressor and the fan to operate, the method further includes: in the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the first stop temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has not reached the second stop temperature, controlling the refrigeration damper to close, and keeping the compressor and the fan running, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing cooling mode; in the freezing cooling mode, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the second stop temperature, controlling the compressor and the fan to stop operating.

[0104] For example, see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a fourth flowchart of the controller provided in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller is further configured to execute steps S29 to S32:

[0105] S29. In the refrigeration mode, obtain the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment, and then proceed to step S30.

[0106] S30. Determine whether the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment has reached the first shutdown temperature and whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has not reached the second shutdown temperature. If yes, proceed to step S31; otherwise, proceed to other control logic, such as step S22.

[0107] S31. Control the refrigerator door to close, and keep the compressor and fan running to put the refrigerator into the freezing and cooling mode, and then proceed to step S32.

[0108] S32. Obtain the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment so as to control the compressor and the fan to stop running when the second shutdown temperature is reached.

[0109] Understandably, in refrigerator cooling mode, if the freezer door is open for too long, even if the fan speed is reduced to provide more cooling to the freezer, the refrigerator compartment will still reach the first stop temperature first. Therefore, when the refrigerator compartment reaches its corresponding stop temperature first, the refrigerator door is closed to allow the cooling system to transfer as much cooling energy as possible to the freezer. Once the freezer temperature reaches the stop point (second stop temperature), the compressor and fan are turned off. Then, the refrigerator and freezer compartments are allowed to naturally warm up until the refrigerator compartment reaches the first start temperature or the freezer reaches the second start temperature, at which point the refrigerator cooling function is restarted.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, the step of controlling the compressor and the fan to operate after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, includes: after the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, controlling the compressor and the fan to operate, and controlling the refrigeration damper to close, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing mode; the step of controlling the compressor to stop operating, controlling the refrigeration damper to open, and controlling the fan to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, includes: in the freezing mode, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second stop temperature, controlling the compressor to stop operating, controlling the refrigeration damper to open, and controlling the fan to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0111] Specifically, this embodiment further limits the refrigerator's activation of the cooling program due to excessively high freezing temperature in the freezer compartment. For example, see [link to example]. Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is the fifth workflow diagram of the controller provided in the embodiment of the present invention. The controller is further configured to execute steps S33 to S40:

[0112] S33. Obtain the operating mode of the freezer compartment, the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment, and the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment, and then proceed to step S34.

[0113] S34. Determine whether the freezer is operating in refrigeration mode. If yes, proceed to step S35. If no, proceed to other control logic, such as step S44.

[0114] S35. Determine whether the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the first start-up temperature. If yes, proceed to other control logic, such as step S21. If no, proceed to step S36.

[0115] S36. Determine whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the second start-up temperature. If yes, proceed to step S37. If no, proceed to other control logic, such as step S18.

[0116] S37. Control the compressor and the fan to operate, and control the refrigerator door to close, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing mode, and then proceed to step S38.

[0117] Specifically, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is higher than the second start-up temperature, it indicates that the temperature of the freezer compartment is too high and cooling is required to meet the cooling demand of the freezer compartment. At this time, the compressor and fan are started and running, and the refrigerator air damper is closed. The fan is used to blow the cold air generated by the refrigeration system to the freezer compartment to reduce the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment.

[0118] S38. Monitor the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment, and then proceed to step S39.

[0119] S39. Determine whether the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the second shutdown temperature. If yes, proceed to step S40; otherwise, return to step S38.

[0120] It is worth noting that when the compressor and fan are running and the refrigeration damper is closed, no cooling capacity is supplied to the refrigeration compartment, and the refrigeration compartment is in a state of natural temperature recovery.

[0121] S40. Control the compressor to stop running, control the refrigerator damper to open, and keep the fan running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigerator cooling mode. Control the refrigerator to run in the refrigerator cooling mode. For specific operation methods, please refer to step S17.

[0122] Specifically, when the freezer temperature reaches the second shutdown temperature, there is no need to supply cooling to the freezer. Therefore, the compressor stops running, the refrigerator damper opens, and the fan continues to run, allowing cooling to continuously enter the refrigerator compartment until there is no excess cooling to significantly lower the refrigerator temperature or until the refrigerator temperature reaches the first shutdown temperature. At this point, the refrigerator damper closes and the fan stops running, slowing down the temperature rise in the refrigerator compartment and reducing the probability of frequent compressor starts due to excessively high refrigerator temperature. In this embodiment, the freezer compartment is supplied with cooling air first, and then the freezer compartment supplies cooling air to the refrigerator compartment. Each step, including the compressor, fan, and refrigerator damper, is only controlled by the temperature of either the refrigerator or freezer compartment and is not affected by external factors such as door opening and closing, resulting in better stability.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the first shutdown temperature is greater than the second shutdown temperature. It is understood that the freezer compartment is close to the evaporator, and when the refrigeration system is operating, the cooling energy generated by the evaporator is transferred to the freezer compartment more significantly and quickly. Therefore, the user can set the freezer compartment's set temperature to be lower than the refrigerator compartment's set temperature according to actual needs; that is, the first shutdown temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the second shutdown temperature of the freezer compartment. Furthermore, after the compressor stops, the cooling energy from the freezer compartment can be transferred to the refrigerator compartment by opening the refrigerator air damper, thereby lowering the refrigerator compartment's temperature.

[0124] In a preferred embodiment, the degree of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is the temperature difference before and after a set duration, or the rate of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0125] In a preferred embodiment, the controller is further configured to: control the operation mode of the freezer compartment to switch between refrigeration mode and freezing mode based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's display screen or based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's hardware switch.

[0126] For example, see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is the sixth workflow diagram of the controller provided in the embodiment of the present invention. The controller is further configured to execute steps S41 to S42:

[0127] S41. Receive the mode conversion instruction, and then proceed to step S42.

[0128] Specifically, a mode switching button or knob can be set on the refrigerator, and the user can trigger the mode switching command by controlling the hardware switch, or input the mode switching command through a terminal, or a display screen can be set on the refrigerator, and the user can trigger the mode switching command by operating the display screen, etc.

[0129] S42, responds to mode switching command, controls the freezer compartment to switch between refrigeration mode and freezing mode.

[0130] In one embodiment, after the freezer compartment is operating in freezing mode, the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment are refrigerated using conventional refrigerator control methods.

[0131] For example, see Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is the seventh workflow diagram of the controller provided in this embodiment of the invention. The controller is further configured to execute steps S43 to S45:

[0132] S43. Obtain the operating mode of the freezer compartment, and then proceed to step S44.

[0133] S44. Determine whether the freezer compartment is in freezer mode. If yes, proceed to step S45. If no, proceed to other control logic, such as step S11.

[0134] S45. The refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment are refrigerated using conventional refrigerator control methods.

[0135] Understandably, when the freezer is running in freezing mode, the refrigerator's control logic is conventional. For example, when the freezer temperature reaches the start-up point (third start-up temperature), the compressor and fan start working. When the refrigerator temperature reaches the corresponding stop point (e.g., the first start-up temperature) but the freezer temperature has not yet reached the corresponding stop point (third stop-up temperature), the refrigerator damper closes. When the freezer temperature reaches the corresponding stop-up temperature, the compressor and fan shut off. When the refrigerator temperature reaches the start-up point, the compressor and fan start working until the refrigerator temperature reaches the corresponding stop point (e.g., the first stop-up temperature). Understandably, the third start-up temperature is lower than the first and second start-up temperatures, and the third stop-up temperature is lower than the first and second stop-up temperatures. For example, the compartment temperature setting for a freezer operating in freezing mode is typically set between -12 and 24 degrees Celsius. The third start-up temperature and the third stop-down temperature also need to be set according to the compartment temperature setting in freezing mode. At this temperature, the moisture in food will quickly freeze and form ice crystals, making it difficult for microorganisms to survive. Frozen food can be stored for a longer time, preventing spoilage and rot. It is worth noting that the range of compartment temperature settings is not limited to the specific data mentioned above; manufacturers can set a selectable temperature range according to actual conditions, which is not limited here.

[0136] Compared with existing technologies, the refrigerator disclosed in this invention, firstly, after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and fan are controlled to operate. Then, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second stop temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop operating, the refrigeration damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters a refrigeration cooling mode. Finally, in the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the set first stop temperature or the degree of temperature drop is less than a set threshold, the refrigeration damper is controlled to close and the fan is stopped. Therefore, this invention, by controlling the refrigerator's compressor, fan, and refrigeration damper based on the temperatures of the refrigerator and freezer compartments, enables the freezer compartment to achieve refrigeration functionality, meeting the user's need for refrigeration space without changing the refrigerator hardware, and improving the user experience.

[0137] See Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator control method described in this embodiment is implemented by a controller in the refrigerator and includes steps S1 to S3:

[0138] S1. After the refrigerator is running in the freezer compartment in the refrigerator mode, if the refrigerator temperature in the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezer temperature in the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, control the refrigerator compressor and fan to run.

[0139] S2. When the freezing temperature reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator compartment's air damper is open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigerator cooling mode.

[0140] S3. In the refrigeration cooling mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set degree threshold, the refrigeration damper is closed and the fan stops running.

[0141] In one embodiment, after the refrigerator is operating in refrigeration mode in the freezer compartment, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, controlling the operation of the refrigerator's compressor and fan includes:

[0142] After the freezer compartment of the refrigerator is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature, the refrigerator compressor and fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration air door of the refrigerator compartment is controlled to open, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration mode.

[0143] If the freezing temperature reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator compartment's air damper is open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the cooling mode, including:

[0144] If the refrigeration temperature has not yet reached the set first shutdown temperature and the freezing temperature has reached the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigeration damper remains open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0145] In one embodiment, the method further includes: in the refrigeration mode, acquiring the state parameters of the freezer compartment, wherein the state parameters include at least one of door opening duration and temperature drop rate;

[0146] The fan speed is adjusted according to the state parameters, wherein if the state parameters include the door opening duration, the fan speed is negatively correlated with the door opening duration; if the state parameters include the temperature drop rate, the fan speed is positively correlated with the temperature drop rate.

[0147] In one embodiment, after the refrigerator is operating in refrigeration mode in the freezer compartment, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, and the refrigerator compressor and fan are controlled to operate, the method further includes:

[0148] In the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the first shutdown temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment does not reach the second shutdown temperature, the refrigeration damper is closed, and the compressor and the fan remain running to allow the refrigerator to enter the freezing and cooling mode.

[0149] In the refrigeration and cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the freezer chamber reaches the second shutdown temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to stop running.

[0150] In one embodiment, after the refrigerator is operating in refrigeration mode in the freezer compartment, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, controlling the operation of the refrigerator's compressor and fan includes:

[0151] After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration damper is controlled to close, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing mode.

[0152] When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, including:

[0153] In the freezing mode, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator damper is controlled to open, and the fan remains running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

[0154] In one embodiment, the first shutdown temperature is greater than the second shutdown temperature.

[0155] In one embodiment, the degree of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is the temperature difference before and after a set duration, or the rate of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

[0156] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0157] Based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's display screen or based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's hardware switch, the operating mode of the freezer compartment is controlled to switch between refrigeration mode and freezing mode.

[0158] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0159] After the freezer compartment is operating in freezing mode, the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment are refrigerated using conventional refrigerator control methods.

[0160] It is worth noting that the specific steps of the method described in the above embodiments can be found in the working process of the refrigerator in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0161] Compared to existing technologies, the refrigerator control method disclosed in this invention firstly, after the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than a set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than a set second start-up temperature, the compressor and fan are controlled to operate. Then, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches a set second stop temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop operating, the refrigeration damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters a refrigeration cooling mode. Finally, in the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches a set first stop temperature or the degree of temperature drop is less than a set threshold, the refrigeration damper is controlled to close and the fan is stopped. Therefore, this invention, by controlling the refrigerator's compressor, fan, and refrigeration damper based on the temperatures of the refrigerator and freezer compartments, enables the freezer compartment to achieve its refrigeration function, meeting the user's need for refrigeration space without changing the refrigerator hardware, and improving the user experience.

[0162] The above description represents the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: The compartments, including refrigerator and freezer compartments, are used for storing items; The refrigeration system, which powers the refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator, includes a compressor, evaporator, pressure reducer, and condenser. Air ducts are used to introduce the cooling capacity generated by the refrigeration system into the room; A fan, located inside the air duct, is used to blow the cooling energy into the compartment; A refrigeration damper is installed on the air duct and is used to control the amount of cold air entering the refrigeration compartment; A freezing temperature detection device is installed in the freezing chamber for detecting the freezing temperature; A refrigeration temperature detection device is installed in the refrigeration chamber and is used to detect the refrigeration temperature; Controller, used for: After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run. When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to keep running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode. In the refrigeration cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set threshold, the refrigeration damper is closed and the fan stops running.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, After the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, controlling the compressor and the fan to operate includes: After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration damper is controlled to open, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration mode. When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, including: In the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment has not yet reached the set first stop temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the set second stop temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigeration damper remains open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The controller is also used for: In the refrigeration mode, the status parameters of the freezer compartment are obtained, wherein the status parameters include at least one of door opening time and temperature drop rate; The fan speed is adjusted according to the state parameters, wherein if the state parameters include the door opening duration, the fan speed is negatively correlated with the door opening duration; if the state parameters include the temperature drop rate, the fan speed is positively correlated with the temperature drop rate.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, After the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, and the compressor and the fan are controlled to operate, the system further includes: In the refrigeration mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment reaches the first shutdown temperature and the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment does not reach the second shutdown temperature, the refrigeration damper is closed, and the compressor and the fan remain running to allow the refrigerator to enter the freezing and cooling mode. In the refrigeration and cooling mode, when the refrigeration temperature of the freezer chamber reaches the second shutdown temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to stop running.

5. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, After the freezer compartment is operating in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, controlling the compressor and the fan to operate includes: After the freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the compressor and the fan are controlled to run, and the refrigeration damper is controlled to close, so that the refrigerator enters the freezing mode. When the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator air damper is controlled to open, and the fan is controlled to remain running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode, including: In the freezing mode, when the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator damper is controlled to open, and the fan remains running so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode.

6. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first shutdown temperature is greater than the second shutdown temperature.

7. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The degree of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is the temperature difference before and after a set duration, or the rate of decrease in the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment.

8. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller is also used for: Based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's display screen or based on the user's mode switching operation on the refrigerator's hardware switch, the operating mode of the freezer compartment is controlled to switch between refrigeration mode and freezing mode.

9. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller is also used for: After the freezer compartment is operating in freezing mode, the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment are refrigerated using conventional refrigerator control methods.

10. A refrigerator control method, characterized in that, include: After the refrigerator freezer compartment is running in refrigeration mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigerator compartment is greater than the set first start-up temperature or the freezing temperature of the freezer compartment is greater than the set second start-up temperature, the refrigerator compressor and fan will be controlled to run. When the freezing temperature reaches the set second shutdown temperature, the compressor is controlled to stop running, the refrigerator compartment's air damper is open, and the fan remains running, so that the refrigerator enters the refrigeration cooling mode. In the refrigeration cooling mode, if the refrigeration temperature of the refrigeration compartment reaches the set first shutdown temperature or the degree of drop is less than the set threshold, the refrigeration damper is closed and the fan stops running.

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