Refrigerator and refrigerator control method

Abstract

The refrigerator control method comprises the steps that under the condition that the current temperature of a variable temperature chamber is larger than the starting point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of an evaporator is obtained, and if the current temperature of the evaporator is larger than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, an air door of the variable temperature chamber is controlled to be in a closed state; and when the current temperature of the evaporator is reduced to a first critical temperature, an air door of the variable temperature chamber is controlled to be switched from a closed state to an open state so as to refrigerate the variable temperature chamber, and the first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and a first preset temperature. Power consumption can be reduced, and energy waste is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and in particular to a refrigerator and a refrigerator control method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, refrigerator compartments may include variable temperature compartments, such as variable temperature drawers, which typically support temperatures lower than the main refrigerator compartment. The refrigerator compartment is also equipped with an evaporator, which cools both the main refrigerator compartment and the variable temperature compartment within it. To achieve this cooling effect, the operation of the evaporator needs to be controlled.

[0003] In the traditional solution, when the temperature of the variable temperature compartment rises to the start-up point of the variable temperature compartment, the compressor can be turned on to make the evaporator cool, and the fan of the refrigerator compartment and the damper of the variable temperature drawer can be turned on to send air to the variable temperature compartment.

[0004] However, if the temperature of the evaporator is higher than that of the variable temperature compartment, for example, after the refrigerator compartment defrosts naturally, the temperature of the evaporator is usually close to that of the refrigerator compartment. If air is supplied to the variable temperature drawer before the temperature of the evaporator drops, the air supplied may be at a temperature higher than that of the variable temperature compartment itself. This will not only fail to achieve the cooling effect but will also have a side effect, resulting in high power consumption and energy waste. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a refrigerator and a refrigerator control method to solve the problem of energy waste caused by high power consumption.

[0006] In a first aspect, some embodiments provide a refrigerator, including: an evaporator and a compartment, the compartment including a variable temperature compartment; a controller configured to: when the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature compartment, acquire the current temperature of the evaporator; if the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment, control the damper of the variable temperature compartment to be closed; when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, control the damper of the variable temperature compartment to switch from a closed state to an open state to cool the variable temperature compartment, the first critical temperature being the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment and a first preset temperature.

[0007] In this embodiment, when the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is higher than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is kept closed to prevent air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from closed to open to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and a first preset temperature. This prevents hot air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber, reduces power consumption, and minimizes energy waste.

[0008] In some embodiments, when the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment's start-up point, the damper of the compartment is open to supply air to the compartment, thereby cooling the compartment. The controller is further configured to: during the cooling process of the variable temperature compartment, compare the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment with the variable temperature compartment's shut-off point, and close the damper of the variable temperature compartment when the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is less than the variable temperature compartment's shut-off point, thus completing the cooling of the variable temperature compartment; if the variable temperature compartment has already completed cooling before the current temperature of the compartment drops to the compartment's shut-off point, then close the damper of the compartment when the current temperature of the compartment drops to the compartment's shut-off point, thus completing the cooling of the compartment and pre-cooling the variable temperature compartment.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the controller performs the pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber, it is configured to: if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the evaporator is less than a first critical temperature, then open the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber, thereby achieving pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: during the pre-cooling process of the variable temperature chamber, compare the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber with the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, and compare the current temperature of the compartment with the shutdown point of the compartment; if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to either the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber or the current temperature of the compartment drops to either a second critical temperature, then shut down the compressor to stop the evaporator from cooling, wherein the second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the shutdown point of the compartment and a second preset temperature.

[0011] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: start the refrigerator, turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, wherein, when starting the refrigerator, the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment start-up point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the variable temperature compartment start-up point; open the damper of the compartment and the fan of the compartment to supply air to the compartment and achieve cooling of the compartment.

[0012] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator when the current temperature of the compartment is less than the compartment shutdown point and the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the variable temperature chamber startup point; and turn on the fan of the compartment and the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, thereby achieving cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

[0013] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: when the evaporator is not cooling, if the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment's start-up point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is less than the variable temperature compartment's shut-off point, then turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator; during the evaporator cooling process, compare the current temperature of the evaporator with a third critical temperature; if the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the third critical temperature, then blow air into the compartment through the compartment's fan and damper to achieve compartment cooling; wherein, the third critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the compartment and a third preset temperature.

[0014] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: during the cooling process of the compartment, if the current temperature change of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, open the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber; and if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the compartment drops to a second critical temperature, shut down the compressor to stop the evaporator from cooling, wherein the second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the shutdown point of the compartment and a second preset temperature.

[0015] In some embodiments, the compartment has a compartment start-up point, which is the sum of the compartment set temperature and a first temperature fluctuation value; the variable temperature chamber start-up point is the sum of the variable temperature chamber set temperature and a second temperature fluctuation value; the compartment also has a compartment shutdown point, which is the difference between the compartment set temperature and a third temperature fluctuation value; and the variable temperature chamber also has a variable temperature chamber shutdown point, which is the difference between the variable temperature chamber set temperature and a fourth temperature fluctuation value.

[0016] Secondly, some embodiments also provide a refrigerator control method applied to the refrigerator provided in the first aspect. The refrigerator includes an evaporator, a compartment, and a controller. The compartment includes a variable temperature compartment. The method includes: when the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature compartment, obtaining the current temperature of the evaporator; if the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment, controlling the damper of the variable temperature compartment to be in a closed state; when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, controlling the damper of the variable temperature compartment to switch from a closed state to an open state to cool the variable temperature compartment. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment and a first preset temperature.

[0017] In this embodiment, when the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is higher than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is kept closed to prevent air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from closed to open to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and a first preset temperature. This prevents hot air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber, reduces power consumption, and minimizes energy waste. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, 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 this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This application provides schematic diagrams of the external structure of a refrigerator for some embodiments.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a refrigerator provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the hardware configuration of the controller and its associated devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 4 This application provides schematic diagrams of the internal structure of a refrigerator for some embodiments.

[0023] Figure 5 A schematic flowchart illustrating a refrigerator control method provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the process of simultaneously cooling a compartment and a variable temperature compartment, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 7 A schematic flowchart illustrating a refrigerator control method provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 8 Timing diagrams for refrigerator control methods provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 9 Structural block diagrams of refrigerator control devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 10 This is an internal structural diagram of a computer device provided in some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described below do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. They are merely examples of systems and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the claims.

[0030] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the convenience of understanding the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise stated, these terms should be understood in their ordinary and common meaning.

[0031] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar or related objects or entities, and do not necessarily imply a specific order or sequence, unless otherwise specified. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate.

[0032] The terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclude inclusion, for example, a product or device that includes a range of components is not necessarily limited to all of the components that are clearly listed, but may include other components that are not clearly listed or that are inherent to such product or device.

[0033] The term "module" refers to any known or subsequently developed hardware, software, firmware, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, or combination of hardware and / or software code that is capable of performing the functions associated with that element.

[0034] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a refrigerator 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The refrigerator 100 in this embodiment has an approximately cuboid shape. The refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a storage space and one or more doors 101 located at the opening of the cabinet. Each door includes a door shell located on the outside of the cabinet, a door inner liner located on the inside of the cabinet, an upper cover, a lower cover, and an insulation layer located between the door shell, door inner liner, upper cover, and lower cover. Typically, the insulation layer is filled with foam material. The cabinet has chambers, including component storage chambers for placing components of the refrigerator, such as a compressor compartment, and storage chambers for storing food, etc. Of course, the refrigerator in this application can also be of other shapes, and this application does not limit the external structure of the refrigerator. The interior of the refrigerator includes compartments, such as compartment 102. A compartment in the refrigerator refers to an independent storage space inside the refrigerator that is separated and has different temperatures or functions. Depending on the purpose, the compartments can be configured as a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a variable temperature compartment, a vacuum drawer, and a humidifier drawer, etc. The refrigerator in this application can also be of other shapes, and this application does not limit the external structure of the refrigerator. The compartment may also include a lighting module 103, which can be located inside the compartment, for example, on the top or side of the compartment.

[0035] like Figure 2 As shown, the compartment may also include a variable temperature compartment 200, which may be, for example, a variable temperature drawer. The compartment also includes a compartment temperature sensor 201 for collecting the temperature of the space within the compartment (excluding the variable temperature drawer). Similarly, the variable temperature compartment 200 may include a variable temperature compartment sensor for collecting the temperature within the variable temperature compartment.

[0036] like Figure 3 The diagram shows a connection between a controller and its control devices. The refrigerator includes a controller 300, which is located inside the refrigerator. The controller 300 receives temperatures collected by the temperature sensor 302 of the evaporator, the temperature sensor 304 of the compartment, and the temperature sensor 307 of the variable temperature compartment, and controls the opening and closing of the compressor 301, the evaporator, the fan 303 of the compartment, the damper 305 of the compartment, and the damper 306 of the variable temperature compartment. A memory 308 is used to store the operating parameters of the refrigerator.

[0037] The air vents of compartments such as the refrigerator compartment are located in the air ducts connecting to the refrigerator compartment. When the refrigerator compartment air vent is open, cold air in the air duct can smoothly enter the refrigerator compartment; when the refrigerator compartment air vent is closed, cold air in the air duct cannot enter the refrigerator compartment. The air vents of the variable temperature compartment are located in the air ducts connecting to the variable temperature compartment. When the variable temperature compartment air vent is open, cold air in the air duct can smoothly enter the variable temperature compartment; when the variable temperature compartment air vent is closed, cold air in the variable temperature compartment cannot enter the variable temperature compartment. The fan is located in the refrigerator's air ducts and is used to allow air to enter the evaporator for heat exchange and to send the heated air to the refrigerator's storage compartments. Figure 4 The diagram shown illustrates the internal structure of the refrigerator.

[0038] The refrigerator also includes an integrated main inverter and display board, which is located inside the refrigerator body. The controller can be housed on this integrated board. The main inverter and display board includes a controller, power filter circuit, rectifier components, voltage detection circuit, three-phase inverter circuit, drive circuit, current sampling circuit, memory, voltage analog-to-digital converter module, pulse width modulation signal output module, temperature analog-to-digital converter module, operational amplifier, key detection circuit, display drive circuit, display module, fan, drive circuit, and fan interface. The power filter circuit stabilizes the DC voltage using the energy storage and release characteristics of capacitors. The rectifier components convert AC to DC. The three-phase inverter circuit converts DC to three-phase AC, providing a suitable three-phase AC power supply for the compressor.

[0039] The voltage detection circuit primarily detects the bus voltage using voltage divider resistors and sends the detected voltage to the voltage-to-digital converter (ADC). The ADC converts the received voltage into a voltage signal, enabling the controller to acquire it. The current sampling circuit samples the DC bus current and sends the sampled current to an operational amplifier. The operational amplifier processes the sampled current and sends the processed current to the current-to-digital converter (ADC). The ADC converts the received current into a current signal, allowing the controller to acquire it.

[0040] The controller analyzes and processes the digital current signal to obtain a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal for controlling the compressor's operation. This PWM signal is then sent to the drive circuit via a PWM signal output module. The drive circuit uses the PWM signal to control the output of the three-phase inverter circuit, thereby controlling the compressor's operating state. The memory stores information such as the refrigerator's settings; however, this embodiment does not specifically limit the information that the memory can store. The temperature analog-to-digital converter module converts the temperature collected by the temperature sensor into a temperature signal, enabling the controller to obtain the temperature signal from the temperature analog-to-digital converter module.

[0041] The button detection circuit monitors the button status in real time and adjusts the refrigerator's settings and control modes accordingly. The display driver circuit drives the display module to display the settings and mode information. It should be noted that the buttons are located on the refrigerator itself, allowing users to adjust settings such as temperature. The fan driver operates the refrigerator's fan via a fan interface. The controller receives information from the button detection circuit through an interface and transmits data to the display driver circuit and fan driver circuit via the same interface.

[0042] Based on this, in some embodiments, this application provides a refrigerator, which includes: an evaporator and a compartment, the compartment including a variable temperature compartment; a controller configured to: when the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature compartment, acquire the current temperature of the evaporator; if the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment, control the damper of the variable temperature compartment to be in a closed state; when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, control the damper of the variable temperature compartment to switch from a closed state to an open state to cool the variable temperature compartment, the first critical temperature being the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment and a first preset temperature.

[0043] In this embodiment, when the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is higher than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is kept closed to prevent air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from closed to open to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and a first preset temperature. This prevents hot air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber, reduces power consumption, and minimizes energy waste.

[0044] Based on this, in some embodiments, this application provides a refrigerator control method applied to a refrigerator, the refrigerator including a compartment, the compartment including a variable temperature compartment, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the method includes:

[0045] Step 502: If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, obtain the current temperature of the evaporator. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, control the damper of the variable temperature chamber to be closed.

[0046] The current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is collected in real time by a temperature sensor in the variable temperature chamber. The current temperature of the evaporator is collected in real time by a temperature sensor in the evaporator.

[0047] For example, the compartment has a compartment start-up point, which is the sum of the compartment set temperature and the first temperature fluctuation value; the variable temperature chamber start-up point is the sum of the variable temperature chamber set temperature and the second temperature fluctuation value; the compartment also has a compartment shutdown point, which is the difference between the compartment set temperature and the third temperature fluctuation value; the variable temperature chamber also has a variable temperature chamber shutdown point, which is the difference between the variable temperature chamber set temperature and the fourth temperature fluctuation value.

[0048] The variable temperature chamber set temperature is the temperature set for the variable temperature chamber itself, and the room set temperature is the temperature set for the room itself. The first, second, third, and fourth temperature fluctuation values ​​can be the same or different. The room shutdown point = room set temperature - third temperature fluctuation value; the room startup point = room set temperature + first temperature fluctuation value; the variable temperature chamber shutdown point = variable temperature chamber set temperature - fourth temperature fluctuation value; the variable temperature chamber startup point = variable temperature chamber set temperature + second temperature fluctuation value. If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is less than the variable temperature chamber shutdown point, the variable temperature chamber meets the temperature requirements. If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the variable temperature chamber startup point, the variable temperature chamber does not meet the temperature requirements. If the current temperature of the room is greater than the room startup point, the room does not meet the temperature requirements. The current temperature of the room is collected in real time by the room's temperature sensor.

[0049] Step 504: When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature control chamber is switched from the closed state to the open state to cool the variable temperature control chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature control chamber and the first preset temperature.

[0050] Wherein, the first critical temperature = the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber - the first preset temperature. "The current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature" can be understood as the current temperature of the evaporator dropping to less than or equal to the first critical temperature. That is, when the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber - the first preset temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from the closed state to the open state to supply air to the variable temperature chamber and achieve cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

[0051] In this embodiment, when the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is higher than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is kept closed to prevent air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from closed to open to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and a first preset temperature. This prevents hot air from being supplied to the variable temperature chamber, reduces power consumption, and minimizes energy waste.

[0052] In some embodiments, when the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment's start-up point, the compartment's damper is open to supply air to the compartment for cooling. The controller is also configured to: during the cooling process of the variable temperature compartment, compare the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment with the variable temperature compartment's stop-up point, and close the damper of the variable temperature compartment when the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is less than the stop-up point to complete the cooling of the variable temperature compartment; if the variable temperature compartment has completed cooling before the current temperature of the compartment drops to the stop-up point, then close the damper of the compartment when the current temperature of the compartment drops to the stop-up point to complete the cooling of the compartment and pre-cool the variable temperature compartment.

[0053] Specifically, if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is lower than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, the temperature of the variable temperature chamber is satisfied, and cooling is stopped to prevent the temperature of the variable temperature chamber from becoming too low and to reduce energy waste.

[0054] For example, one scenario is that the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than its start-up point, and the current temperature of the other compartment is higher than its start-up point. In this case, the compressor is turned on to cool the evaporator, and the fan and damper of the other compartment are turned on to supply air to it, thus cooling the other compartment. The variable temperature compartment is not cooled initially; instead, it is cooled only after the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature. Normally, according to the duct design, when the variable temperature compartment damper is open, most of the airflow is directed to the variable temperature drawer, and the variable temperature compartment temperature is met first. At this point, the variable temperature compartment damper is closed, and the airflow flows to the other compartment, such as the refrigerated compartment. Therefore, the variable temperature compartment may have already completed cooling before the current temperature of the other compartment drops to its shut-off point. In this case, when the current temperature of the other compartment drops to its shut-off point, the other compartment damper is closed to complete the cooling of the other compartment, but the compressor is not turned off (the evaporator continues to cool), and the variable temperature compartment damper is opened for pre-cooling. After pre-cooling is completed, the compressor is then turned off.

[0055] In this embodiment, if the variable temperature chamber has completed cooling before the current temperature of the compartment drops to the compartment shutdown point, the temperature of the variable temperature chamber may rise when the current temperature of the compartment drops to the compartment shutdown point. If the compressor is turned off directly at this time to stop the evaporator from cooling, the temperature of the variable temperature chamber may quickly become insufficient, and the compressor will have to be turned on again to cool the evaporator, which may cause the compressor to start frequently. However, if the compressor is not turned off after the compartment is cooled, but the variable temperature chamber is pre-cooled first, and then the compressor is turned off after pre-cooling, the number of times the compressor is turned on can be reduced, thus reducing power consumption.

[0056] In some embodiments, when the controller performs pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber, it is configured to: if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the first critical temperature, then open the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber to achieve pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

[0057] For example, when cooling a compartment is completed, if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than or equal to the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, the variable temperature chamber can be pre-cooled; if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is less than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, the variable temperature chamber can be not pre-cooled.

[0058] For example, when cooling of a compartment is completed, if the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than or equal to the variable temperature compartment shutdown point, and the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the first critical temperature, then a waiting period is initiated. If, within a preset time period, the current temperature of the evaporator drops below the first critical temperature, then the damper of the variable temperature compartment is opened to supply air to the variable temperature compartment, thereby achieving pre-cooling of the variable temperature compartment. If, within a preset time period, the current temperature of the evaporator remains greater than or equal to the first critical temperature, then the compressor is turned off.

[0059] In this embodiment, the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, indicating that the variable temperature chamber needs to be cooled. The current temperature of the evaporator is less than the first critical temperature, which ensures that the cold air is delivered to the variable temperature chamber.

[0060] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: during the pre-cooling process of the variable temperature chamber, compare the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber with the variable temperature chamber shutdown point, and compare the current temperature of the compartment with the compartment shutdown point; if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the variable temperature chamber shutdown point and the current temperature of the compartment drops to a second critical temperature, then shut down the compressor so that the evaporator stops cooling, the second critical temperature being the temperature difference between the compartment shutdown point and a second preset temperature.

[0061] The second critical temperature is calculated as: compartment shutdown point - second preset temperature. The second preset temperature can be set according to actual needs and can be lower than the first preset temperature. For example, if the first preset temperature is 3 degrees Celsius, the second preset temperature can be 1 degree Celsius.

[0062] The current temperature of the variable temperature compartment drops to the shutdown point, which can be understood as the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment dropping to a level less than or equal to the shutdown point. This indicates that the temperature of the variable temperature compartment is sufficient to eliminate the need for further cooling. Therefore, in this situation, the compressor is turned off to stop the evaporator from cooling.

[0063] Since the second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the compartment shutdown point and the second preset temperature, if the current temperature of the compartment drops to the second critical temperature, it means that the temperature of the compartment is already at least the second preset temperature lower than the required temperature, for example, at least 1 degree Celsius lower. Therefore, in this case, turning off the compressor will stop the evaporator from cooling, thereby preventing the compartment (refrigerated compartment) from becoming too cold and freezing.

[0064] In this embodiment, if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the variable temperature chamber shutdown point or the current temperature of the room drops to the second critical temperature, the compressor is turned off so that the evaporator stops cooling. This can stop cooling in time, save power consumption and prevent the room temperature from being too low.

[0065] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: start the refrigerator, turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, wherein when the refrigerator is started, the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment start-up point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the variable temperature compartment start-up point; open the compartment damper and the compartment fan to supply air to the compartment and achieve compartment cooling.

[0066] Starting the refrigerator can be understood as initially powering it on. At this time, the temperatures of the compartment and the variable temperature compartment are not sufficient, so the compressor is turned on to make the evaporator cool, and the air damper and fan of the compartment are turned on to circulate air into the compartment and achieve cooling.

[0067] In this embodiment, the refrigerator is started, the compressor is turned on to make the evaporator cool, and the air damper and fan of the compartment are turned on to cool the compartment in a timely manner.

[0068] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator when the current temperature of the compartment is lower than the compartment shutdown point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than the variable temperature compartment startup point; and turn on the fan of the compartment and the damper of the variable temperature compartment to supply air to the variable temperature compartment when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to a first critical temperature, thereby achieving cooling of the variable temperature compartment.

[0069] One scenario is that when the compressor is off, the temperature of the compartment meets the requirements, but the temperature of the variable temperature compartment does not meet the requirements due to changes. In this case, the compressor is turned on to make the evaporator cool, and when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to less than or equal to the first critical temperature, the fan of the compartment and the damper of the variable temperature compartment are opened.

[0070] In this embodiment, since the temperature of the evaporator may exceed the temperature of the compartment, the fan of the compartment and the damper of the variable temperature compartment are opened when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, which can prevent hot air from being sent to the variable temperature compartment.

[0071] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: when the evaporator is not cooling, if the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment start-up point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is less than the variable temperature compartment shut-off point, then turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator; during the evaporator cooling process, compare the current temperature of the evaporator with a third critical temperature, and if the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the third critical temperature, then blow air into the compartment through the compartment fan and damper to achieve compartment cooling; wherein, the third critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the compartment and a third preset temperature.

[0072] The third critical temperature is calculated as: current temperature of the compartment - third preset temperature. The third preset temperature can be the same as or different from the first preset temperature. One scenario is where the evaporator is not cooling, and the compartment temperature does not meet the requirement, but the variable temperature compartment temperature does. In this case, the compressor is turned on to cool the evaporator, and the compartment fan and damper can be temporarily left off. The compartment fan and damper are only turned on when the current evaporator temperature is lower than the third critical temperature to achieve compartment cooling. This prevents hot air from being supplied to the compartment and reduces power consumption.

[0073] In this embodiment, if the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the third critical temperature, air is supplied to the compartment through the fan and damper of the compartment, which can prevent hot air from being supplied to the compartment and reduce power consumption.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the controller is also configured to: in step 602, during the cooling process of the compartment, if the current temperature change of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start point of the variable temperature chamber, open the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber; and in step 604, if the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the stop point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the compartment drops to a second critical temperature, shut down the compressor so that the evaporator stops cooling, wherein the second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the stop point of the compartment and a second preset temperature.

[0075] During the cooling process of the compartment, the temperature of the variable temperature compartment may become unsatisfactory, so the variable temperature compartment can be cooled simultaneously.

[0076] In this embodiment, if either the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the variable temperature chamber shutdown point or the current temperature of the compartment drops to the second critical temperature, the compressor is turned off so that the evaporator stops cooling, thereby preventing the compartment from becoming too cold.

[0077] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, a flowchart of a refrigerator control method is provided, including:

[0078] 1. When the initial power-on is activated, if the temperatures in the refrigerator compartment and the variable temperature drawer are not met:

[0079] A1) If the temperatures in the refrigerator compartment and the variable temperature drawer are not satisfactory, first turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, then collect and compare the temperatures from the evaporator sensor and the variable temperature drawer sensor. When the evaporator temperature T... zheng <Temperature of the variable temperature drawer T> chou- When the first preset temperature T1 (e.g., 3 degrees Celsius) is reached, the refrigerator fan and the variable-temperature drawer damper are turned on to circulate air to the variable-temperature drawer, thus achieving cooling. Start-up point 1 refers to the start-up point of the refrigerator compartment (i.e., the refrigerator room), and start-up point 2 is the start-up point of the variable-temperature drawer. Shut-off point 1 refers to the shut-off point of the refrigerator compartment (i.e., the refrigerator room), and shut-off point 2 is the shut-off point of the variable-temperature drawer.

[0080] B1). Under normal circumstances, according to the air duct design, when the variable temperature drawer damper is open, most of the airflow is directed towards the variable temperature drawer. Once the drawer reaches the desired temperature, the damper is closed, and the airflow flows into the refrigerator compartment.

[0081] C1). Once the refrigerator compartment meets the requirements, the temperature sensor of the variable temperature drawer will be checked again. If the temperature is higher than the variable temperature drawer's shut-off point and the evaporator temperature T... zheng <Temperature of the variable temperature drawer T> chou - If the first preset temperature T1 is reached, the air damper of the variable temperature drawer will be opened to supply air to the drawer until the variable temperature drawer sensor reaches the shutdown point or the temperature T in the refrigerator compartment is reached. cang Once the shutdown point is reached—the second preset temperature T2 (e.g., 1 degree Celsius, to prevent the refrigerator compartment from becoming too cold and freezing)—the evaporator in the refrigerator compartment will stop cooling. The purpose is to pre-cool the variable-temperature drawer before the evaporator stops cooling, thus avoiding frequent compressor starts due to the variable-temperature drawer.

[0082] 2. When the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is sufficient but the temperature in the variable temperature drawer is insufficient, the control method is the same as in the first case.

[0083] A2). When the refrigerator compartment temperature is met but the variable temperature drawer temperature is not, first turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, then collect and compare the temperatures from the refrigerator evaporator sensor and the variable temperature drawer sensor. When the temperature T of the refrigerator evaporator... zheng <Temperature of the variable temperature drawer T> chou - When the first preset temperature T1 (e.g., 3 degrees) is reached, the refrigeration fan and the variable temperature drawer damper are turned on to blow air into the variable temperature drawer and achieve cooling of the variable temperature drawer.

[0084] 3. When the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is not satisfactory, but the temperature in the variable temperature drawer is satisfactory:

[0085] A3). Turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, then collect and compare the temperatures of the refrigeration evaporator sensor and the refrigeration sensor. When the temperature T of the refrigeration evaporator... zheng <Temperature of the refrigerator compartment T cang - When the third preset temperature T1 (e.g., 3 degrees) is reached, the refrigeration fan is turned on to supply air to the refrigeration room and achieve refrigeration of the refrigeration room.

[0086] B3). Once the refrigerator compartment meets the requirements, the temperature sensor of the variable temperature drawer will be checked again. If the temperature is higher than the variable temperature drawer's shut-off point and the temperature T of the refrigerator evaporator is...zheng <Temperature of the variable temperature drawer T> chou - If the first preset temperature T1 is reached, open the variable temperature drawer damper to supply air to the drawer until the variable temperature drawer sensor reaches the shutdown point or the refrigeration sensor temperature T1 is reached. cang When the shutdown point is reached (lowered) to the second preset temperature T2 (e.g., 1 degree Celsius to prevent the refrigerator compartment from becoming too cold and freezing), the refrigerator compartment evaporator stops cooling. The purpose is to pre-cool the variable temperature drawer before the refrigerator evaporator stops cooling, thus avoiding frequent compressor starts due to the variable temperature drawer.

[0087] C3). If the temperature of the variable temperature drawer is not met during the refrigeration process of the refrigerator compartment, open the air damper of the variable temperature drawer to supply air to the drawer until the variable temperature drawer sensor reaches the shutdown point or the temperature T of the refrigerator compartment is reached. cang The shutdown point - the second preset temperature T2 - is reached. Then execute B3).

[0088] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, a timing diagram of a refrigerator control method is provided, including:

[0089] 1. When the refrigerator is powered on, the controller starts the compressor to make the evaporator cool, and turns on the fan and the refrigerator compartment damper to cool the refrigerator compartment.

[0090] 2. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, open the damper of the variable temperature compartment.

[0091] 3. When the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is lower than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, close the damper of the variable temperature chamber.

[0092] 4. When the current temperature in the refrigerator compartment drops to the compartment shutdown point, close the compartment damper.

[0093] 5. If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is higher than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, and the current temperature of the evaporator is lower than the first critical temperature, then open the damper of the variable temperature chamber to supply air to the variable temperature chamber and achieve pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

[0094] 6. If either the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the variable temperature chamber shutdown point or the current temperature of the cold storage chamber drops to the second critical temperature, then the compressor is turned off so that the evaporator stops cooling and the fan is turned off.

[0095] In the refrigerator control method of this application, when the temperature of the variable-temperature drawer is not satisfactory, the compressor is first turned on to cool the evaporator. Then, the temperatures of the refrigerator evaporator sensor and the variable-temperature drawer sensor are collected and compared. When the temperature of the refrigerator evaporator sensor is less than the variable-temperature drawer sensor - set value, the refrigerator fan and the variable-temperature drawer damper are turned on to supply air to the variable-temperature drawer, thereby achieving cooling. When the refrigerator compartment temperature is satisfactory, the variable-temperature drawer temperature sensor is checked. If the temperature is greater than the variable-temperature drawer shutdown point and the refrigerator evaporator sensor temperature is less than the variable-temperature drawer sensor - set value, the variable-temperature drawer damper is opened to supply air to the variable-temperature drawer until the variable-temperature drawer sensor reaches the shutdown point or the refrigerator sensor temperature reaches the shutdown point - set value (to prevent the refrigerator compartment from becoming too cold). The purpose is to pre-cool the variable-temperature drawer before the compressor stops, avoiding frequent compressor starts due to the variable-temperature drawer, which increases power consumption, improves the temperature stability inside the variable-temperature drawer, reduces the compressor start-stop frequency, and improves energy efficiency.

[0096] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the above embodiments are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the above embodiments may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0097] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a refrigerator control device for implementing the refrigerator control method described above. The solution provided by this device is similar to the solution described in the above method, and specific limitations can be found in the limitations of the refrigerator control method above, which will not be repeated here.

[0098] In some embodiments, a refrigerator control device is provided, such as Figure 9 As shown, it includes: a first control module 902 and a second control module 904, wherein:

[0099] The first control module 902 is used to obtain the current temperature of the evaporator when the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is controlled to be closed.

[0100] The second control module 904 is used to control the damper of the variable temperature chamber to switch from closed to open when the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, so as to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and the first preset temperature.

[0101] In some embodiments, a computer device is provided, which may be a controller. The computer device includes a processor, memory, input / output (I / O) interfaces, and a communication interface. The processor, memory, and I / O interfaces are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface is connected to the system bus via the I / O interfaces. The processor of the computer device provides computing and control capabilities. The memory of the computer device includes a non-volatile storage medium and internal memory. The non-volatile storage medium stores an operating system, computer programs, and a database. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs in the non-volatile storage medium. The database of the computer device stores data involved in a refrigerator control method. The I / O interfaces of the computer device are used for exchanging information between the processor and external devices. The communication interface of the computer device is used for communicating with external terminals via a network connection. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements a refrigerator control method.

[0102] In some embodiments, a computer device is provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps in the refrigerator control method described above.

[0103] In some embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the refrigerator control method described above.

[0104] In some embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the refrigerator control method described above.

[0105] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, artificial intelligence (AI) processors, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0106] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this application.

[0107] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, include: Evaporator and compartment, the compartment including a variable temperature compartment; The controller is configured as follows: If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is controlled to be closed. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from the closed state to the open state to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and the first preset temperature.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The current temperature of the compartment is higher than the compartment's start-up point, so the compartment's damper is open to supply air to the compartment, thereby achieving cooling. The controller is also configured to: During the cooling process of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is compared with the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber. When the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is lower than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is closed to complete the cooling of the variable temperature chamber. If the variable temperature chamber has completed cooling before the current temperature of the chamber drops to the chamber shutdown point, then when the current temperature of the chamber drops to the chamber shutdown point, the damper of the chamber is closed to complete the cooling of the chamber and pre-cool the variable temperature chamber.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the controller performs the pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber, it is configured to: If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, and the current temperature of the evaporator is less than the first critical temperature, then the damper of the variable temperature chamber is opened to supply air to the variable temperature chamber, thereby achieving pre-cooling of the variable temperature chamber.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: During the pre-cooling process of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is compared with the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber, and a comparison is made based on the current temperature of the compartment and the shutdown point of the compartment. If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the compartment drops to the second critical temperature, the compressor is turned off so that the evaporator stops cooling. The second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the shutdown point of the compartment and the second preset temperature.

5. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: Start the refrigerator and turn on the compressor to cool the evaporator, wherein, when starting the refrigerator, the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the compartment start-up point and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is greater than the variable temperature compartment start-up point. Open the damper and fan of the compartment to supply air to the compartment and achieve cooling.

6. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: When the current temperature of the compartment is lower than the shutdown point of the compartment and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is higher than the startup point of the variable temperature compartment, the compressor is turned on to make the evaporator cool. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, the fan of the compartment and the damper of the variable temperature compartment are turned on to supply air to the variable temperature compartment and achieve cooling of the variable temperature compartment.

7. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: If the current temperature of the compartment is greater than the start-up point of the compartment and the current temperature of the variable temperature compartment is less than the shut-off point of the variable temperature compartment when the evaporator is not cooling, then the compressor is turned on to cool the evaporator. During the evaporator cooling process, the current temperature of the evaporator is compared with the third critical temperature. If the current temperature of the evaporator is lower than the third critical temperature, air is supplied to the compartment through the fan and damper of the compartment to achieve cooling of the compartment. The third critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the chamber and the third preset temperature.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: During the cooling process of the compartment, if the current temperature change of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is opened to supply air to the variable temperature chamber. and, If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber drops to the shutdown point of the variable temperature chamber and the current temperature of the compartment drops to the second critical temperature, the compressor is turned off so that the evaporator stops cooling. The second critical temperature is the temperature difference between the shutdown point of the compartment and the second preset temperature.

9. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The compartment has a compartment start-up point, which is the sum of the compartment's set temperature and a first temperature fluctuation value. The variable temperature chamber's start-up point is the sum of the variable temperature chamber's set temperature and a second temperature fluctuation value. The compartment also has a compartment shutdown point, which is the difference between the compartment's set temperature and a third temperature fluctuation value. The variable temperature chamber also has a variable temperature chamber shutdown point, which is the difference between the variable temperature chamber's set temperature and a fourth temperature fluctuation value.

10. A refrigerator control method, characterized in that, Applied to a refrigerator, the refrigerator including an evaporator and a compartment, the compartment including a variable temperature compartment, the method includes: If the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber is greater than the start-up point of the variable temperature chamber, the current temperature of the evaporator is obtained. If the current temperature of the evaporator is greater than or equal to the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is controlled to be closed. When the current temperature of the evaporator drops to the first critical temperature, the damper of the variable temperature chamber is switched from the closed state to the open state to cool the variable temperature chamber. The first critical temperature is the temperature difference between the current temperature of the variable temperature chamber and the first preset temperature.

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