Energy-saving control method based on step tariff, controller, refrigerator and server

Abstract

The invention discloses an energy-saving control method based on step tariff, a controller, a refrigerator and a server, the step tariff information of a geographic area where the refrigerator is located is obtained according to the geographic area where the refrigerator is located, the actual accumulated electricity consumption of a current month of a user where the refrigerator is located is obtained, and due to the fact that the step tariff information is divided into a plurality of electricity charging gears, the electricity charging efficiency is improved. Each electricity charging gear corresponds to different accumulative electricity consumption, the current electricity charging gear can be determined by comparing the actual accumulative electricity consumption with the electricity consumption corresponding to the electricity charging gear, and the energy-saving strategy of the refrigerator is applied according to the current electricity charging gear. Therefore, the refrigerator can automatically adjust the operation parameters of the refrigerator under the condition that the current month electricity consumption of the user is too large, energy saving is achieved, the operation power consumption of the refrigerator is reduced from the macroscopic electricity consumption, and the electricity consumption of the user and the electric charge burden of the user are effectively reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator application technology, and in particular to an energy-saving control method, controller, refrigerator and server based on tiered electricity pricing. Background Technology

[0002] As appliances that operate 24 hours a day, refrigerators' power consumption and energy efficiency are always a topic of concern for users. The energy efficiency assessment standard for refrigerators is generally the energy efficiency rating certified at the time of manufacture. However, the energy efficiency rating cannot accurately reflect the actual power consumption of the refrigerator, making it difficult for users to perceive the energy-saving effect of the refrigerator.

[0003] To further improve the energy efficiency of refrigerators and reduce electricity bills, some technologies automatically adjust the refrigerator's operation based on the peak and off-peak electricity consumption periods in the region. Combined with ice storage functionality, this allows the refrigerator to cool more during off-peak hours to store ice and cool less during peak hours to release the stored ice, thus reducing power consumption. However, while this solution can reduce electricity costs to some extent, it requires the refrigerator to have an ice storage component, which is an additional equipment cost for consumers. Furthermore, since this solution adjusts the refrigerator's electricity usage during different times, the actual power consumption is not significantly reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an energy-saving control method, controller, refrigerator, and server based on tiered electricity pricing, which can save the refrigerator's power consumption and reduce the user's electricity bill burden.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an energy-saving control method based on tiered electricity pricing, comprising: Obtain the tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month. The tiered electricity price information represents the correspondence between the cumulative electricity consumption in the current month and the electricity charging tier. The current electricity pricing tier is determined based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the tiered electricity pricing information, and the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy is applied based on the current electricity pricing tier.

[0006] In some embodiments, determining the current electricity pricing tier based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the tiered pricing information includes: Determine the electricity consumption range for each electricity pricing tier in the tiered electricity pricing information; The current electricity pricing tier is determined based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the electricity consumption range.

[0007] In some embodiments, applying the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy based on the current electricity pricing tier includes: The tier value is determined based on the current electricity pricing tier. The energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value is invoked, and the operating parameters of the refrigerator are adjusted according to the energy-saving strategy.

[0008] In some embodiments, invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the first-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the first-level value; The target set temperature is obtained by increasing the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy; The refrigerator is instructed to adjust its operating parameters according to the target set temperature.

[0009] In some embodiments, the step of increasing the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy to obtain the target set temperature includes: Determine the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment; According to the first energy-saving strategy, the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment is increased to obtain a first target set temperature, and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment is increased to obtain a second target set temperature. The first target set temperature does not exceed the preset upper limit of the refrigerator compartment, and the second target set temperature does not exceed the preset upper limit of the freezer compartment.

[0010] In some embodiments, invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the second-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the second-level value; According to the second energy-saving strategy, the refrigerator is instructed to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: The set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator is increased to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; Reduce the lighting power of the lighting components in the refrigerator compartment; Set the time period for turning off the human body sensor function of the refrigerator; Reduce the operating power of the refrigerator's sound components.

[0011] In some embodiments, invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the third-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the third-level value; According to the third energy-saving strategy, the refrigerator is instructed to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: The set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator is increased to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; The lighting components of the refrigerator compartment are turned off during the daytime and set to a preset minimum power during the nighttime. Turn off the human body sensor function of the refrigerator; Turn off the sound component of the refrigerator.

[0012] In some embodiments, the energy-saving control method further includes: Receives a gear setting command from a user, the gear setting command including a gear value; The energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value is invoked, and the operating parameters of the refrigerator are adjusted according to the energy-saving strategy.

[0013] In a second aspect, embodiments of this application provide a controller including at least one processor and a memory for communicatively connecting to the at least one processor; the memory stores instructions executable by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the method as described in the first aspect.

[0014] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a refrigerator, including the controller described in the second aspect, wherein the controller is communicatively connected to the power grid system to obtain tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month.

[0015] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a server including the controller described in the second aspect. The controller is communicatively connected to the power grid system to obtain tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month. The controller is also communicatively connected to the refrigerator to issue energy-saving strategies to the refrigerator.

[0016] The energy-saving control method, controller, refrigerator, and server based on tiered electricity pricing in this application have at least the following beneficial effects: Tiered electricity pricing information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located is obtained, along with the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household in the current month. Since the tiered electricity pricing information is divided into multiple electricity charging tiers, each corresponding to a different cumulative electricity consumption, the current electricity charging tier can be determined by comparing the actual cumulative electricity consumption with the electricity consumption corresponding to the charging tier. Based on the current charging tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy is applied. Therefore, the refrigerator can automatically adjust its operating parameters when the user's monthly electricity consumption is too high, achieving energy saving. This reduces the refrigerator's operating power consumption from a macro-level electricity consumption perspective, effectively reducing the user's electricity consumption and electricity bill burden.

[0017] Other features and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description and will be apparent in part from the description or may be learned by practicing the application. The objectives and other advantages of this application may be realized and obtained by means of the structures particularly pointed out in the description and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is an overall flowchart of an energy-saving control method based on tiered electricity pricing provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a flowchart for determining the current electricity pricing tier provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the adjustment of operating parameters according to an energy-saving strategy, provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the application of a first-level energy-saving strategy according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the adjustment of the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or freezer compartment according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the application of a second-level energy-saving strategy according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the application of a third-level energy-saving strategy according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a user-defined energy-saving strategy level provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a block diagram of an example intelligent energy-saving scheduling system provided in this application; Figure 10 This is an overall flowchart of an energy-saving control method provided in an example of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of a controller provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various implementations. Simultaneously, the steps or actions described in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are merely for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a mandatory order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0020] In the description of this application, "several" means one or more, "more than" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0021] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are used only to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0022] Currently, refrigerator energy-saving methods generally fall into two categories. One approach optimizes the refrigerator's operating strategy during daily use, reducing the power consumption of internal components. This method works independently within the refrigerator and does not consider grid power consumption. The other approach incorporates ice storage components that detect off-peak electricity demand and increase cooling output through the ice storage components. Conversely, during peak electricity demand, the refrigerator reduces cooling output by releasing cold air through the ice storage components. Neither of these approaches considers household electricity consumption. While the first approach saves electricity, it cannot be integrated with household electricity usage. In cases of high monthly electricity consumption, user intervention is required to adjust the refrigerator's operation to reduce bills. The second approach, while considering grid power consumption, does not significantly reduce overall electricity consumption. Although it lowers bills, users incur additional costs when purchasing refrigerators with ice storage components, making it less than ideal for consumers.

[0023] This application provides an energy-saving control method, controller, refrigerator, and server based on tiered electricity pricing. The method obtains tiered electricity pricing information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located, and also obtains the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household in the current month. Since the tiered electricity pricing information is divided into multiple electricity pricing tiers, each corresponding to a different cumulative electricity consumption, the current electricity pricing tier can be determined by comparing the actual cumulative electricity consumption with the electricity consumption corresponding to the current pricing tier. Based on the current pricing tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy is applied. Therefore, the refrigerator can automatically adjust its operating parameters when the user's monthly electricity consumption is too high, achieving energy savings. This reduces the refrigerator's operating power consumption from a macro-level electricity consumption perspective, effectively reducing the user's electricity consumption and electricity bill burden.

[0024] The following description, with reference to the accompanying diagrams, illustrates the energy-saving control method, controller, refrigerator, and server based on tiered electricity pricing.

[0025] Reference Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 The energy-saving control method based on tiered electricity pricing provided in this application includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step S110: Obtain the tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month. The tiered electricity price information represents the correspondence between the cumulative electricity consumption in the current month and the electricity charging level. Step S120: Determine the current electricity charging tier based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and tiered electricity pricing information, and apply the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy based on the current electricity charging tier.

[0026] By checking the tiered electricity pricing information for the refrigerator's geographical area, one can determine the correlation between the cumulative electricity consumption for the month and the corresponding electricity pricing tier. Tiered pricing information is usually divided according to administrative regions, with different regions having their own specific electricity pricing strategies. Once a household's cumulative electricity consumption reaches a certain tier in a month, the price per kilowatt-hour for each subsequent tier is higher than the previous tier, thus implementing tiered electricity pricing and guiding users to save electricity. For residential users, the cumulative electricity consumption for the month is the cumulative consumption recorded on the user's household meter. For businesses and other centralized electricity-consuming locations, the cumulative electricity consumption for the month is the cumulative consumption recorded on the main meter or the individual sub-meters connected to the main meter. Users bind their refrigerators to their electricity meters. By obtaining the meter readings, the system can determine the household's actual cumulative electricity consumption for the month. For example, the refrigerator connects to the power system, retrieves the electricity data from its bound meter, calculates the cumulative monthly consumption, matches it against the tiered pricing system to determine the current pricing level, and then uses this level to determine the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy. Alternatively, a server connects to the power system and the refrigerator, retrieves the electricity data from the bound meter, calculates the cumulative monthly consumption, matches it against the tiered pricing system, determines the current pricing level, and then uses this level to determine and distribute energy-saving strategies to the corresponding refrigerators for execution.

[0027] Understandably, the higher the electricity pricing tier, the higher the price per kilowatt-hour. To effectively save electricity and reduce electricity costs, the energy-saving effect of the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy increases with the electricity pricing tier. For example, tiered electricity pricing information includes a first tier, a second tier, and a third tier. The first tier corresponds to the electricity consumption between 0 and the first tier; the second tier corresponds to the electricity consumption between the first and second tiers; the third tier corresponds to the electricity consumption between the second and third tiers; and the fourth tier corresponds to the electricity consumption above the third tier. When the cumulative electricity consumption for the month is between 0 and the first tier, the refrigerator operates normally without using energy-saving strategies. When the cumulative electricity consumption for the month is between the first and second tiers, the refrigerator uses the first tier energy-saving strategy. When the cumulative electricity consumption for the month is between the second and third tiers, the refrigerator uses the second tier energy-saving strategy, and so on.

[0028] Through the above method, the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy adjusts automatically based on the tiered electricity pricing in the region and the cumulative electricity consumption for the month. This allows the refrigerator to apply different energy-saving strategies when the cumulative electricity consumption of a household or business exceeds the tiered pricing, effectively achieving energy savings and enhancing the flexibility and applicability of refrigerator power consumption. Applying the energy-saving control method of this application eliminates the need for an additional ice storage component in the refrigerator, saving users the cost of purchasing a refrigerator.

[0029] Reference Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the step S120 above, which determines the current electricity charging tier based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and tiered electricity pricing information, includes: Step S210: Determine the electricity consumption range for each electricity charging tier in the tiered electricity pricing information; Step S220: Determine the current electricity charging tier based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the electricity consumption range.

[0030] Tiered electricity pricing sets multiple charging tiers, each corresponding to a consumption range. The power company applies the appropriate charging tier based on the relationship between a household's or business's actual cumulative monthly electricity consumption and the consumption range. Therefore, in practice, a refrigerator or server obtains the actual cumulative monthly electricity consumption from the power company's meter (if the power system does not provide this parameter, it can be determined by the difference between the current meter reading and the reading on the most recent meter reading date). The charging tier is then determined based on the corresponding consumption range, and finally, an energy-saving strategy is chosen based on the charging tier.

[0031] Reference Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments, step S120 above, which applies the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy based on the current electricity pricing tier, includes: Step S310: Determine the tier value based on the current electricity pricing tier; Step S320: Invoke the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value, and adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy.

[0032] After determining the current electricity pricing tier, the tier value is determined based on this tier. The tier value can be preset for the refrigerator or server. For example, electricity pricing tiers range from 0 to 3 from low to high, and the tier values ​​for the refrigerator or server are set to 1, 2, and 3. When the electricity pricing tier is 0, the refrigerator does not apply energy-saving strategies; this is equivalent to not setting a corresponding tier value for electricity pricing tier 0. Electricity pricing tier 1 corresponds to the first tier value, and the refrigerator applies the first tier energy-saving strategy. Electricity pricing tier 2 corresponds to the second tier value, and the refrigerator applies the second tier energy-saving strategy. Electricity pricing tier 3 corresponds to the third tier value, and the refrigerator applies the third tier energy-saving strategy. While the aforementioned electricity pricing tiers, tier values, and energy-saving strategies are not one-to-one, in practical applications, the following correspondence can be used: Electricity pricing tier 1 corresponds to the third tier value, and the refrigerator applies the third tier energy-saving strategy; electricity pricing tier 2 corresponds to the second tier value, and the refrigerator applies the second tier energy-saving strategy; electricity pricing tier 3 corresponds to the first tier value, and the refrigerator applies the first tier energy-saving strategy.

[0033] Reference Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, step S320 above invokes an energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value, and adjusts the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy, including: Step S410: Invoke the first-gear energy-saving strategy corresponding to the first gear value; Step S420: Adjust the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy to obtain the target set temperature; Step S430: Instruct the refrigerator to adjust its operating parameters according to the target set temperature.

[0034] In this embodiment, the first setting corresponds to the first energy-saving strategy. At this point, the actual cumulative electricity consumption for the month falls within the electricity billing tier 1 range. Therefore, the first energy-saving strategy is a slightly more energy-efficient operating strategy compared to the refrigerator's normal operating conditions. Specifically, the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator can be increased, causing the refrigerator to set its start-up and stop temperatures according to the increased set temperature, and then controlling the compressor's operation based on these temperatures. It is understood that refrigerators typically include a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment; some refrigerators also include a variable temperature compartment. The set temperature of the refrigerator compartment has a certain range, for example, adjustable between 2°C and 8°C. The set temperature of the freezer compartment also has a certain range, for example, adjustable between -24°C and -16°C. The variable temperature compartment also has a certain temperature range depending on the actual situation of the refrigerator. The first energy-saving strategy can increase the set temperature of at least one of the refrigerator, freezer, and variable temperature compartments, thereby reducing the frequency of compressor triggering due to the compartment temperature reaching the start-up temperature, and reducing the refrigerator's power consumption.

[0035] Specifically, refer to Figure 5 As shown, step S420 above, which involves increasing the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy to obtain the target set temperature, includes: Step S510: Determine the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment; In step S520, according to the first energy-saving strategy, the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment is increased to obtain the first target set temperature, and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment is increased to obtain the second target set temperature. The first target set temperature does not exceed the upper limit of the preset temperature of the refrigerator compartment, and the second target set temperature does not exceed the upper limit of the preset temperature of the freezer compartment.

[0036] The current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or freezer compartment may have reached the upper limit of the adjustable temperature range. Therefore, when applying the first-level energy-saving strategy, the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or freezer compartment is determined. If the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment has reached the upper limit of the preset temperature of the refrigerator compartment, the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment will not be adjusted, but the set temperature of the freezer compartment can be increased. If the current set temperature of the freezer compartment has reached the upper limit of the preset temperature of the freezer compartment, the set temperature of the freezer compartment will not be adjusted, but the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment can be increased. In short, the first-level energy-saving strategy can flexibly increase the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or freezer compartment according to their current set temperature and their set temperature range, thereby reducing the operating power consumption of the refrigerator. Of course, if the refrigerator compartment also includes a variable temperature compartment, the set temperature of the variable temperature compartment can also be increased in accordance with the method of steps S510 and S520. In this case, the refrigerator determines the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment, the current set temperature of the freezer compartment, and the current set temperature of the variable temperature compartment, and increases the set temperature of at least one of the refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment, and variable temperature compartment.

[0037] Reference Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, step S320 above invokes an energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value, and adjusts the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy, including: Step S610: Invoke the second-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the second-level value; Step S620: According to the second energy-saving strategy, instruct the refrigerator to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: Increase the set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; Reduce the lighting power of the refrigerator compartment lighting components; Set the time period for turning off the refrigerator's human body sensor function; Reduce the operating power of the refrigerator's sound components.

[0038] In this embodiment, the second level value corresponds to the second level energy-saving strategy. At this time, the actual cumulative electricity consumption for the month falls within the electricity consumption range of electricity billing level 2. Therefore, the second level energy-saving strategy is a more energy-efficient operating strategy compared to the first level energy-saving strategy. Building upon the first level energy-saving strategy, the second level energy-saving strategy further enhances energy conservation by including one or more of the four methods mentioned above: For example, the first method adjusts the set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment. Specifically, the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the refrigerator compartment, the set temperature of the freezer compartment can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the freezer compartment, and the set temperature of the variable temperature compartment (if the refrigerator has a variable temperature compartment) can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment; the second method reduces the power of the refrigerator's lighting components. Refrigerators typically have lighting components installed in the refrigerator compartment, which are activated when the user opens the refrigerator compartment door. By reducing the power of the lighting components, the refrigerator's energy consumption can be reduced. Energy consumption; The third method is applicable to refrigerators with human body sensing functions (such as sensing a user's approach to turn on the room lights or start the refrigerator display). The human body sensing function of the refrigerator usually works 24 hours a day. In order to save power consumption, the second energy-saving strategy sets a time period for turning off the human body sensing function (for example, setting the human body sensing function to turn off between 10 pm and 5 am the next day). During this time period, the human body sensing function is not effective; The fourth method is applicable to refrigerators with sound components (such as issuing voice prompts or sound alarm lights to users). By reducing the working power of the sound component (by reducing the volume, duration of sound, etc.), the energy consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced.

[0039] The four methods mentioned above can be enabled simultaneously, or one or more can be selected for activation. The specific methods activated are determined by the preset settings of the second-level energy-saving strategy, or the user can customize the activation methods based on the second-level energy-saving strategy, and the refrigerator will adjust its operating parameters accordingly. It is understandable that the first method in the second-level energy-saving strategy can be set to always be enabled, thus making the second-level energy-saving strategy more significantly reduce the refrigerator's energy consumption compared to the first-level energy-saving strategy.

[0040] Reference Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, step S320 above invokes an energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value, and adjusts the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy, including: Step S710: Invoke the third-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the third-level value; Step S720: According to the third energy-saving strategy, instruct the refrigerator to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: Increase the set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; During the daytime, turn off the lighting components in the refrigerator compartments; at night, set the lighting components to the preset minimum power. Turn off the refrigerator's human body sensor function; The refrigerator's sound control unit is turned off.

[0041] In this embodiment, the third tier value corresponds to the third energy-saving strategy. At this time, the actual cumulative electricity consumption for the month enters the electricity consumption range of the electricity billing tier 3. Therefore, the third energy-saving strategy is a more energy-efficient operating strategy than the second energy-saving strategy. Building upon the second-level energy-saving strategy, the third-level energy-saving strategy further enhances energy efficiency, incorporating one or more of the four methods mentioned above: For example, the first method adjusts the set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator to the upper limit of the corresponding preset temperature. Specifically, the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the refrigerator compartment, the set temperature of the freezer compartment can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the freezer compartment, and the set temperature of the variable temperature compartment (if the refrigerator has a variable temperature compartment) can be adjusted to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the variable temperature compartment. The second method sets the refrigerator's lighting components to be inactive during the day and activated at night, but controls the lighting components to operate at their preset minimum power, which can reduce the refrigerator's energy consumption. The third method is suitable for refrigerators with human body sensors. In order to save power consumption, the human body sensor function is directly turned off in the third-level energy-saving strategy, at which point the human body sensor function is not effective. The fourth method is suitable for refrigerators with sound components. In order to save power consumption, the sound component is directly turned off in the third-level energy-saving strategy, at which point the sound component is not working.

[0042] The above four methods can be activated simultaneously, or one or more of them can be selected for activation. The specific methods activated are determined by the preset settings of the third-level energy-saving strategy, or the user can customize the activation methods based on the third-level energy-saving strategy. The refrigerator then adjusts its operating parameters according to the activated methods. It is understood that the refrigerator generally uses the second-level energy-saving strategy before activating the third-level energy-saving strategy. Therefore, the methods activated by the third-level energy-saving strategy can inherit those activated by the second-level energy-saving strategy. That is, if the second-level energy-saving strategy activated the first and second methods in step S620, then the third-level energy-saving strategy will activate the first and second methods in step S720. Furthermore, the third-level energy-saving strategy can also add a third and / or a fourth method based on activating the first and second methods in step S720.

[0043] Reference Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the energy-saving control method further includes: Step S810: Receive the user's gear setting command, which includes a gear value; Step S820: Invoke the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value, and adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy.

[0044] Users can customize which energy-saving strategy to activate. By providing a setting command via a smart terminal or the refrigerator's interactive panel, users can instruct the refrigerator to enter the corresponding energy-saving strategy. The refrigerator then adjusts its operating parameters accordingly. In addition to specifying the setting, users can also adjust the currently running energy-saving strategy. For example, a specific app on the smart terminal can display details of the refrigerator's current energy-saving strategy, including the set temperature of each compartment, the lighting power of the compartment's lighting components, the time period during which the human body sensor function is turned off, and the operating power of the sound components. Users can customize the energy-saving strategy by adjusting these detailed parameters according to their needs.

[0045] In summary, by obtaining the tiered electricity pricing information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located, and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household in that month, and considering that the tiered electricity pricing information is divided into multiple electricity pricing tiers, each corresponding to a different cumulative electricity consumption, the current electricity pricing tier can be determined by comparing the actual cumulative electricity consumption with the electricity consumption corresponding to the current pricing tier. Based on the current electricity pricing tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy is applied. Therefore, the refrigerator can automatically adjust its operating parameters when the user's monthly electricity consumption is too high, thereby achieving energy saving. From the perspective of macro-level electricity consumption, the refrigerator's operating power consumption is reduced, effectively reducing the user's electricity consumption and electricity bill burden.

[0046] The energy-saving control method of this application will be explained in detail below with a specific example.

[0047] This example provides a method for intelligently activating a refrigerator's energy-saving mode based on tiered electricity pricing and monthly electricity consumption statistics. Based on the refrigerator's geographical location, combined with the user's local power grid pricing policies and current electricity consumption statistics, the refrigerator's energy-saving mode is automatically activated and its energy-saving operation strategy is adjusted after reaching different levels of electricity consumption, thereby achieving flexibility and scenario applicability for the user's household electricity use.

[0048] The system obtains local tiered electricity consumption and prices based on the refrigerator's geographical location, including: Tier 1 (base consumption): low electricity consumption and low electricity price; Tier 2: both electricity consumption and electricity price are higher than Tier 1; Tier 3: both electricity consumption and electricity price are higher than Tier 2.

[0049] When the household's monthly electricity consumption reaches the first tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving mode automatically activates and operates according to the first-tier energy-saving strategy. When the cumulative monthly electricity consumption reaches the second tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving mode automatically adjusts and operates according to the second-tier energy-saving strategy. When the cumulative monthly electricity consumption reaches the third tier, the refrigerator's energy-saving mode automatically adjusts and operates according to the third-tier energy-saving strategy. Different energy-saving modes or strategies progressively reduce the refrigerator's energy consumption. Adjustable parameters can cover various power-consuming components built into the refrigerator, such as operating temperature, defrosting, lighting, sound, and human presence. Users can also customize energy-saving strategies for different tiers, setting operating conditions for various power-consuming modules such as temperature, defrosting, lighting, sound, and human presence to meet personalized energy-saving needs.

[0050] Specifically, refer to Figure 9 As shown, the intelligent energy-saving dispatching system in this example includes an electricity price acquisition system, an energy-saving dispatching system, and an energy consumption statistics system. The electricity price acquisition system, the energy-saving dispatching system, and the energy consumption statistics system communicate with each other. The electricity price acquisition system includes a geographic location monitoring module and a tiered electricity price collection module. The energy-saving dispatching system includes an energy-saving strategy customization module and an energy-saving strategy adjustment module. The energy consumption statistics system includes a power consumption statistics module and a tiered early warning module.

[0051] (1) Electricity price collection system: ① Geographic location monitoring module: Real-time acquisition of the refrigerator's geographical location; ② Tiered electricity pricing collection module: Obtain local tiered electricity pricing strategies based on geographical location, including tiered electricity consumption and corresponding electricity prices.

[0052] (2) Energy-saving dispatching system: ① Customizable Energy Saving Strategy Module: Users can customize multiple energy-saving operation strategies, including but not limited to the following: the operating status of various power-consuming components built into the refrigerator, such as the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment, lighting, sound, and human-sensing functions.

[0053] Set the temperature: Adjust the temperature of each compartment of the refrigerator separately. The higher the temperature setting, the more energy-efficient the refrigerator will be. Lighting control: Adjusts whether the lights in each compartment of the refrigerator are on, adjusts the brightness, and controls day / night lighting, etc. Sound control: Adjust volume level, volume on / off switch, volume duration, etc.; Human-sensor control: Adjusting the human sensor switch, human-sensor time periods, etc.; Users can combine different conditions and specific settings to customize energy-saving operation strategies for each level.

[0054] The system's recommended default energy-saving strategy tiers are as follows: First-tier energy-saving strategy: Adjust the refrigerator's set temperature: refrigerator compartment (2~8 degrees Celsius), freezer compartment (-24~-16 degrees Celsius). By default, the temperature is adjusted upwards from the current temperature, up to the upper limit of the set temperature for the corresponding room.

[0055] Second energy-saving strategy: Adjust the refrigerator's set temperature: The default setting is the upper limit of the set temperature for each compartment; Lighting control: The brightness of the refrigerator / freezer compartment lights can be adjusted downwards, down to the lowest brightness limit supported by the system; Human sensor control: Limits the human sensor detection period, defaulting to 10 PM to 5 AM; Sound control: Adjust the volume and duration downwards, down to the lowest limit supported by the system.

[0056] Third-tier energy-saving strategy: Adjust the refrigerator's set temperature: The default setting is the upper limit of the set temperature for each compartment; Lighting control: Turn off daytime lights and set refrigerator / freezer lights to minimum brightness at night; Human Sensing Control: Human sensing function is disabled by default; Volume control: Volume is off by default.

[0057] ② Energy-saving strategy adjustment module: Adjusts the power-saving mode switch and executes different levels of energy-saving strategies based on the electricity consumption gradient corresponding to the cumulative electricity consumption of the household in the current month.

[0058] (3) Energy consumption statistics system: ① Power consumption statistics module: Connects to the home's power grid system via the cloud to obtain the home's total monthly power consumption; ② Tiered warning module: Based on the collected tiered power consumption data, when the cumulative power consumption reaches the tiered power consumption level, the corresponding energy-saving strategy is activated and a corresponding prompt is sent to the user.

[0059] For specific control procedures, please refer to... Figure 10As shown, 1) Obtain the geographical location of the refrigerator; Retrieve tiered electricity pricing information for your region based on your location, including tiered consumption limits and prices. Tier 1 (base consumption limit): lower consumption, lower price; Tier 2: both consumption and price are higher than Tier 1; Tier 3: both consumption and price are higher than Tier 2.

[0060] 2) Calculate the household's cumulative electricity consumption for the month; 3) When it is determined whether the cumulative electricity consumption of the household in the current month has reached the first level, if it has reached the first level of electricity consumption, the refrigerator's power saving mode will be automatically turned on and the refrigerator's operation will be adjusted according to the first level of energy saving strategy. 4) Continue to monitor the household's cumulative electricity consumption for the month. When the cumulative electricity consumption reaches the second level, automatically adjust the refrigerator's operation and implement the second level of energy-saving strategy.

[0061] 5) Continue to monitor the household's cumulative electricity consumption for the month. When the cumulative electricity consumption reaches the third level, automatically adjust the refrigerator's operation and implement the third level of energy-saving strategy.

[0062] Therefore, this example shows that users can customize the refrigerator's tiered energy-saving strategy in multiple dimensions, and can also adjust the refrigerator's energy-saving mode and operating status in combination with the tiered electricity price in the local area, which meets the needs of flexibility and diversity, and achieves the effect of saving energy and money.

[0063] like Figure 11 As shown, Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a controller 1000 provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0064] The controller 1000 in this embodiment includes one or more processors 1001 and a memory 1002. Figure 11 The example uses a processor 1001 and a memory 1002.

[0065] Processor 1001 and memory 1002 can be connected via a bus or other means. Figure 11 Taking the example of a connection between China and Israel via a bus.

[0066] Memory 1002, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, memory 1002 may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory 1002 may optionally include memory 1002 remotely located relative to processor 1001, and these remote memories can be connected to controller 1000 via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0067] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 11 The device structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the controller 1000 and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0068] This application embodiment also provides a refrigerator, including the aforementioned controller 1000. In this embodiment, the refrigerator itself is connected to the power system, and the power system obtains the electricity consumption data of the electricity meter bound to or corresponding to the refrigerator to obtain the cumulative electricity consumption for the current month. Based on the cumulative electricity consumption for the current month, the current electricity charging tier is determined by matching it with the electricity charging tier in the tiered electricity pricing information, and then the energy-saving strategy of the refrigerator is determined based on the current electricity charging tier.

[0069] This application embodiment also provides a server, including the aforementioned controller 1000. The server in this embodiment connects to the power system and the refrigerator. It obtains electricity consumption data from the electricity meter bound to the refrigerator through the power system, calculates the cumulative electricity consumption for the current month, matches the cumulative electricity consumption for the current month with the electricity pricing tier in the tiered electricity pricing information, determines the current electricity pricing tier, and then determines an energy-saving strategy based on the current electricity pricing tier and sends the energy-saving strategy to the corresponding refrigerator for execution.

[0070] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network nodes. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0071] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps and systems in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, and suitable combinations thereof. Some or all of the physical components can be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software can be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically contain computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.

[0072] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, and "more than" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0073] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, instruments, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the instrument embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the shown or discussed mutual couplings, direct couplings, or communication connections may be through some interfaces; indirect couplings or communication connections between instruments or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. Units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and components shown as units may or may not be physical units, i.e., they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0074] It should also be understood that the various implementation methods provided in this application can be combined arbitrarily to achieve different technical effects.

[0075] The above is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of this application. However, this application is not limited to the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent modifications or substitutions without departing from the spirit of this application. All such equivalent modifications or substitutions are included within the scope defined by the claims of this application.

Claims

1. An energy-saving control method based on tiered electricity pricing, characterized in that, include: Obtain the tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month. The tiered electricity price information represents the correspondence between the cumulative electricity consumption in the current month and the electricity charging tier. The current electricity pricing tier is determined based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the tiered electricity pricing information, and the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy is applied based on the current electricity pricing tier.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the current electricity pricing tier based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the tiered electricity pricing information includes: Determine the electricity consumption range for each electricity pricing tier in the tiered electricity pricing information; The current electricity pricing tier is determined based on the actual cumulative electricity consumption and the electricity consumption range.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The application of the refrigerator's energy-saving strategy based on the current electricity pricing tier includes: The tier value is determined based on the current electricity pricing tier. The energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value is invoked, and the operating parameters of the refrigerator are adjusted according to the energy-saving strategy.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the first-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the first-level value; The target set temperature is obtained by increasing the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy; The refrigerator is instructed to adjust its operating parameters according to the target set temperature.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of increasing the set temperature of at least one compartment of the refrigerator according to the first energy-saving strategy to obtain the target set temperature includes: Determine the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment; According to the first energy-saving strategy, the current set temperature of the refrigerator compartment is increased to obtain a first target set temperature, and / or the current set temperature of the freezer compartment is increased to obtain a second target set temperature. The first target set temperature does not exceed the preset upper limit of the refrigerator compartment, and the second target set temperature does not exceed the preset upper limit of the freezer compartment.

6. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the second-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the second-level value; According to the second energy-saving strategy, the refrigerator is instructed to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: The set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator is increased to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; Reduce the lighting power of the lighting components in the refrigerator compartment; Set the time period for turning off the human body sensor function of the refrigerator; Reduce the operating power of the refrigerator's sound components.

7. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of invoking the energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear position value and adjusting the refrigerator's operating parameters according to the energy-saving strategy includes: Invoke the third-level energy-saving strategy corresponding to the third-level value; According to the third energy-saving strategy, the refrigerator is instructed to perform at least one of the following to adjust the refrigerator's operating parameters: The set temperature of all compartments of the refrigerator is increased to the upper limit of the preset temperature of the corresponding compartment; The lighting components of the refrigerator compartment are turned off during the daytime and set to a preset minimum power during the nighttime. Turn off the human body sensor function of the refrigerator; Turn off the sound component of the refrigerator.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-saving control method further includes: Receives a gear setting command from a user, the gear setting command including a gear value; The energy-saving strategy corresponding to the gear value is invoked, and the operating parameters of the refrigerator are adjusted according to the energy-saving strategy.

9. A controller, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor and a memory for communicatively connecting with said at least one processor; The memory stores instructions that can be executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The system includes the controller as described in claim 9, which is communicatively connected to the power grid system to obtain tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month.

11. A server, characterized in that, The system includes the controller as described in claim 9, which is communicatively connected to the power grid system to obtain tiered electricity price information for the geographical area where the refrigerator is located and the actual cumulative electricity consumption of the household where the refrigerator is located in the current month. The controller is also communicatively connected to the refrigerator to issue energy-saving strategies to the refrigerator.

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