Method and device for making smoothie and refrigerator

Abstract

The invention relates to a smoothie making method and device and a refrigerator. The method comprises the steps that under the condition that the temperature of a target variable temperature chamber is set to be a first temperature, the surface temperature of an ice making object in the target variable temperature chamber is obtained in real time; the target variable-temperature chamber is a variable-temperature chamber used for making smoothie for an ice making object; and when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object in a preset first time interval is smaller than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold value, vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every a preset second time interval to obtain the smoothie. By adopting the method, the problem that the mouth feel and the appearance of the smoothie prepared by the existing smoothie preparation method are not ideal can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigeration technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus and refrigerator for making smoothies. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of refrigeration technology, freezing equipment has been widely used. Refrigerators have become the main equipment for refrigeration and freezing in homes and industries. As refrigerators become more widely used, people's requirements for them are also getting higher and higher. In addition to refrigeration and freezing functions, in some cases, refrigerators also need to have the function of making smoothies.

[0003] Current methods for making smoothies primarily involve placing the object to be frozen in a variable-temperature chamber. By precisely adjusting the temperature of this chamber, the object is allowed to freeze statically. However, during this static freezing process, fruit pieces or additives tend to sink to the bottom of the container due to their density difference. This results in a top layer of crushed ice and a bottom layer of fruit when shaved. Furthermore, the ice crystals formed by slow freezing are relatively large, resulting in a coarse and gritty texture in the shaved smoothie. Consequently, the smoothie produced has neither an ideal taste nor a desirable appearance.

[0004] There is currently no effective solution to the problem that existing methods of making smoothies produce smoothies with unsatisfactory taste and appearance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a method, apparatus, and refrigerator for making smoothies to address the aforementioned technical problems.

[0006] Firstly, this application provides a method for making smoothies. The method includes:

[0007] With the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber set to a first temperature, the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is acquired in real time; the target variable temperature chamber is a variable temperature chamber used to make shaved ice from the ice-making object.

[0008] When the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes within a preset first time interval, and the temperature change is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain ice slush.

[0009] In one embodiment, before acquiring the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time, given that the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to a first temperature, the process includes:

[0010] In response to a received ice-making request, a first temperature corresponding to the ice-making request is determined.

[0011] In one embodiment, before obtaining shaved ice by vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the process includes:

[0012] In response to a received ice-making request, a preset first time interval corresponding to the ice-making request is determined.

[0013] In one embodiment, when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain shaved ice, including:

[0014] When the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, the preset second time interval, the target duration of each vibration, and the preset number of vibrations corresponding to the ice-making object are determined based on the type of the ice-making object.

[0015] A vibration lasting for the target duration is performed to complete one vibration. Vibrations are performed every preset second time interval to complete the preset number of vibrations, thereby obtaining the shaved ice.

[0016] In one embodiment, when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain shaved ice, and then the process includes:

[0017] The temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to a second temperature; the second temperature is higher than or equal to the first temperature.

[0018] In one embodiment, when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain shaved ice, and then the process includes:

[0019] Send a notification message to the user when the smoothie is ready.

[0020] In one embodiment, when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain shaved ice, and then the process includes:

[0021] Read the first surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the shaved ice is made;

[0022] If the shaved ice is not used within a preset second time after it is made, the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is obtained in real time.

[0023] When the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted based on the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber, and the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval until the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold.

[0024] Secondly, this application also provides a slushie making apparatus. The apparatus includes:

[0025] The temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time when the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to a first temperature; the target variable temperature chamber is a variable temperature chamber used to make shaved ice from the ice-making object.

[0026] And an ice slush making module, used to vibrate the ice-making object according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold during a preset first time interval, so as to obtain ice slush.

[0027] Thirdly, this application also provides a refrigerator, including a refrigerator compartment, a freezer compartment, a variable temperature compartment, and a main control module, wherein the variable temperature compartment is located between the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, and the variable temperature compartment includes an infrared sensor vibration unit;

[0028] The infrared sensor is used to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature chamber in real time;

[0029] The vibration unit is used to vibrate the ice-making object in response to a received vibration command;

[0030] The main control module is connected to the infrared sensor and the vibration unit, and is used to send the vibration command to the vibration unit based on the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature chamber obtained by the infrared sensor, so as to realize the steps of the slush making method described in the first aspect above.

[0031] In one embodiment, the variable temperature chamber further includes an air outlet and a corrugated plate;

[0032] The air outlet is used to input low-temperature airflow into the variable temperature chamber based on a set first temperature or a second temperature.

[0033] The corrugated disk is a heat-conducting metal disk with a corrugated surface, used to place the ice-making object.

[0034] The aforementioned method, apparatus, and refrigerator for making shaved ice, by setting the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber to a first temperature, acquires the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time. It determines whether the ice-making object is freezing by checking whether the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. If the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, it is determined that the ice-making object is freezing. At this time, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval, so that the ice-making object is vibrated during the freezing process, generating shaved ice. The shaved ice generated by vibration does not form layers and has fine particles, solving the problem that existing shaved ice making methods produce shaved ice with unsatisfactory taste and appearance.

[0035] Details of one or more embodiments of this application are set forth in the following drawings and description to make other features, objects and advantages of this application more readily apparent. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 A hardware structure block diagram of a terminal for a smoothie making method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a method for making smoothies according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a preferred embodiment of the method for making smoothies provided in this application;

[0040] Figure 4 A structural block diagram of a slush-making apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the variable temperature compartment of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for making smoothies according to another preferred embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To better understand the purpose, technical solution, and advantages of this application, the application is described and illustrated below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application shall have the general meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. Words such as “a,” “an,” “an,” “the,” “the,” and “these” used in this application do not indicate quantitative limitation and may be singular or plural. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and any variations thereof used in this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or device that comprises a series of steps or modules (units) is not limited to the listed steps or modules (units) but may include steps or modules (units) not listed, or may include other steps or modules (units) inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices. Words such as “connected,” “linked,” and “coupled” used in this application are not limited to physical or mechanical connections but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. “Multiple” used in this application refers to two or more. “And / or” describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships may exist; for example, “A and / or B” can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Normally, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., used in this application are merely to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific order of objects.

[0046] The method embodiments provided in this example can be executed in a terminal, computer, or similar computing device. For example, it can run on a refrigerator terminal. Figure 1 This is a hardware structure block diagram of the terminal of the smoothie making method in this embodiment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, a terminal may include one or more ( Figure 1 Only one is shown in the diagram. A processor 102 and a memory 104 for storing data are also included. The processor 102 may be, but is not limited to, a microprocessor (MCU) or a programmable logic device (FPGA). The terminal may also include a transmission device 106 for communication functions and an input / output device 108. Those skilled in the art will understand that… Figure 1 The structure shown is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the structure of the terminal described above. For example, the terminal may also include components that are larger than... Figure 1 The more or fewer components shown, or having the same Figure 1 The different configurations shown are illustrated.

[0047] The memory 104 can be used to store computer programs, such as application software programs and modules, like the computer program corresponding to the smoothie making method in this embodiment. The processor 102 executes various functional applications and data processing by running the computer program stored in the memory 104, thereby implementing the above-described method. The memory 104 may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or other non-volatile solid-state memory. In some instances, the memory 104 may further include memory remotely located relative to the processor 102, and these remote memories can be connected to the terminal via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, corporate intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0048] The transmission device 106 is used to receive or send data via a network. This network includes a wireless network provided by the terminal's communication provider. In one example, the transmission device 106 includes a Network Interface Controller (NIC), which can connect to other network devices via a base station to communicate with the Internet. In another example, the transmission device 106 can be a Radio Frequency (RF) module used for wireless communication with the Internet.

[0049] This embodiment provides a method for making smoothies. Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the smoothie making method in this embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0050] Step S210: With the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber set to the first temperature, the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is acquired in real time; the target variable temperature chamber is a variable temperature chamber used to make ice slush from the ice-making object.

[0051] The aforementioned ice-making object can be a liquid or semi-solid that needs to be made into a slushie, such as fruit juice, milk tea, cocktails, soft drinks, mineral water, etc. It should be noted that because the ice-making object needs to be vibrated during the slushie-making process, it should be sealed in a container. The material or shape of the container is not specifically limited in this embodiment, as long as it can accommodate the ice-making object and prevent leakage during vibration, and can effectively turn the ice-making object into a slushie. For example, the container can be a covered bottle or box. The aforementioned first temperature can be the set temperature of the variable temperature chamber during ice making. Because the ice-making process involves the slow freezing of the ice-making object, the first temperature should be set below 0°C. However, if the first temperature is set too low, the ice-making object may freeze in a short time, which is not conducive to slushie making or may result in a poor slushie effect. Therefore, the aforementioned first temperature should not be set too low. The aforementioned first temperature can be set according to specific ice-making needs (planned slushie-making time) and / or the type of ice-making object. For example, if the planned time to make a smoothie is 4 hours, the first temperature can be set to -12℃; if the planned time is 8 hours, the first temperature can be set to -6℃; and if the planned time is 12 hours, the first temperature can be set to -4℃. Since the object being made is in a container, the temperature of the container's surface can be used as the surface temperature of the object being made.

[0052] Step S220: When the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes within a preset first time interval, and the temperature change is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain ice slush.

[0053] The aforementioned preset first time interval can be used, together with a preset temperature difference threshold, to determine whether the ice-making object is freezing. The process of determining whether the ice-making object is freezing using the aforementioned preset first time interval and the preset temperature difference threshold is as follows: when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is determined to be freezing; when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the ice-making object is determined to be cooling down and has not yet reached the freezing temperature. When the ice-making object is freezing, it is in a critical state of "micro-ice + slurry," which is the optimal time to initiate vibration to further refine the crystals. Vibration at this temperature can produce refined ice slush. The aforementioned preset first time interval can be set to different values ​​according to different ice-making requirements. For example, if the planned time to make a smoothie is 4 hours and the first temperature is set to -12℃, the preset first time interval can be set to 5 minutes; if the planned time to make a smoothie is 8 hours and the first temperature is set to -8℃, the preset first time interval can be set to 10 minutes; if the planned time to make a smoothie is 12 hours and the first temperature is set to -4℃, the preset first time interval can be set to 15 minutes. Furthermore, the above-mentioned preset first time interval can be specifically set according to specific circumstances or needs. This embodiment does not impose specific limitations here, as long as it can be used together with a preset temperature difference threshold to determine whether the object being made is freezing. The above-mentioned preset temperature difference threshold can be specifically set according to specific needs and application scenarios. This embodiment does not impose specific limitations here, as long as it can be used together with a preset first time interval to determine whether the object being made is freezing. For example, the above-mentioned preset temperature difference threshold can be 0.5℃.

[0054] Steps S210 to S220 above involve acquiring the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time when the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to a first temperature. The ice-making object is determined to be freezing by checking whether its surface temperature change within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. If the surface temperature change within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, it is determined that the ice-making object is freezing. Then, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval. This vibration during the freezing process generates shaved ice. The shaved ice produced by this vibration does not separate into layers and has fine particles, solving the problem that existing shaved ice making methods produce shaved ice with unsatisfactory taste and appearance.

[0055] In one embodiment, prior to step S210, the following steps are included:

[0056] Step S201: In response to the received ice-making request, determine the first temperature corresponding to the ice-making request.

[0057] The aforementioned ice-making request can be an ice-making mode selected by the user. This ice-making mode can be one of several pre-set modes to meet various scenario needs. Different ice-making modes correspond to different times for making slushies, and different times for making slushies correspond to different initial temperatures. Therefore, the aforementioned response to a received ice-making request, determining the initial temperature corresponding to that request, can be based on the received ice-making request to determine the ice-making mode, based on the ice-making mode to determine the specified time for making the slushie, and based on the time for making the slushie to determine the initial temperature for this ice-making process.

[0058] Specifically, in one embodiment, prior to step S220, the following is included:

[0059] Step S211: In response to the received ice-making request, determine a preset first time interval corresponding to the ice-making request.

[0060] The aforementioned response to the received ice-making request, determining the preset first time interval corresponding to the ice-making request, can be done after receiving the ice-making request, based on the ice-making request and the mapping relationship between the preset ice-making request and the preset first time interval.

[0061] In another embodiment, step S220, when the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, vibrates the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain shaved ice, including:

[0062] Step S222: When the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the preset second time interval, the target duration of each vibration, and the preset number of vibrations corresponding to the ice-making object are determined based on the type of the ice-making object.

[0063] The type of ice-making object can be a variety of ice-making objects, such as carbonated beverages and non-carbonated beverages. Determining the preset second time interval, the target duration of each vibration, and the preset number of vibrations based on the type of ice-making object can be based on the type of ice-making object and a preset type mapping table. The preset type mapping table can be a mapping table between the type of ice-making object and target parameters. The target parameters include at least the preset second time interval, the target duration of each vibration, and the preset number of vibrations.

[0064] The aforementioned preset second time interval can be the interval between two vibrations. This preset second time interval can be set to different values ​​depending on the type of ice being made, or it can be set to a fixed value. This embodiment does not impose a specific limitation, as long as one vibration is performed at the preset second time interval, resulting in a smoothie without layering and with fine particles. For example, if the type of ice being made is a non-carbonated beverage, the preset second time interval can be set to 30 minutes; if the type of ice being made is a carbonated beverage, the preset second time interval can be set to 2 hours.

[0065] Furthermore, the target duration of each vibration can be set to a different value depending on the type of ice being made, or it can be set to a fixed value. This embodiment does not impose a specific limitation, as long as it can produce fine-grained slush without layering by performing vibrations for the target duration every preset second time interval. For example, the target duration of each vibration can be set to 3 minutes.

[0066] The preset number of vibrations can be set to different values ​​depending on the type of ice-making object, or it can be set to a fixed value. This embodiment does not make a specific limitation, as long as vibration is performed once every preset second time interval, and the preset number of vibrations is completed, a smoothie without layering and with fine particles can be obtained. Generally, vibration can be performed when the vibration conditions are met within the time period used to make the smoothie, without needing to set the number of vibrations. However, in order to obtain a smoothie without layering and with fine particles, a minimum number of vibrations needs to be set. This number of vibrations is the preset number of vibrations. After the ice-making object completes the preset number of vibrations, a smoothie without layering and with fine particles can be obtained.

[0067] Step S224: A vibration lasting for a target duration is performed to complete one vibration. Vibration is performed every preset second time interval to complete the preset number of vibrations, thus obtaining ice slush.

[0068] In this step, ice slush is obtained by completing a preset number of vibrations. Alternatively, the start time of the first vibration can be recorded (the time when the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes within a preset first time interval and is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold). Timing starts from the start time of the first vibration. When the timing meets the preset time length, multiple vibrations are performed within the timing period by default to obtain ice slush that meets the requirements. That is, ice slush is obtained after freezing for a preset time length (periodic vibration for a preset time length).

[0069] Steps S222 to S224 above involve performing a first vibration when the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes within a preset first time interval, which is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, and completing a preset number of vibrations to obtain slush. This process causes the ice-making object to be vibrated during the freezing process, generating slush. The slush produced by vibration does not form layers and has fine particles, solving the problem that existing slush-making methods produce slush with unsatisfactory taste and appearance.

[0070] In one embodiment, after step S220, the following is included:

[0071] Step S230: Set the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber to a second temperature; the second temperature is higher than or equal to the first temperature.

[0072] Once the smoothie is made, it needs to be stored at a temperature that is not too low. At this point, the target variable temperature chamber stops cooling and its temperature is set to a second temperature. This second temperature can be set according to specific ice-making needs or the type of ice being made, or it can be set to a fixed value. This embodiment does not impose specific limitations, as long as the set temperature is suitable for storing the smoothie. For example, the second temperature can be set to -4℃.

[0073] Additionally, in one embodiment, after step S220, the following is included:

[0074] Step S240: Send a notification message to the user that the smoothie is ready.

[0075] The aforementioned notification message indicating that the smoothie is ready can be sent to the user via a preset method after ice making is complete. The determination of smoothie completion can be based on the accumulated ice-making time reaching the required duration, or the completion of a preset number of vibrations. This preset method can be through sound notifications, such as three beeps or a voice announcement saying "Smoothie ready, please remove"; through light notifications, such as the refrigerator panel LED changing from flashing blue to a solid green light, or the breathing light stopping flashing; or through app notifications, such as a pop-up message "Smoothie ready" appearing on the user's screen if the receiving device has a display or is connected to the internet, with the option to vibrate the phone.

[0076] In this embodiment, after the smoothie is made, a reminder message is sent to the user to indicate that the smoothie is ready. This prevents the user from waiting for a long time due to forgetting the time, and also prevents the smoothie from becoming too hard due to over-freezing. At the same time, it improves the user experience and allows the smoothie to be taken out and eaten within the optimal time window for taste.

[0077] Further, in one embodiment, after step S230, the following is included:

[0078] Step S250: Read the first surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the shaved ice is made.

[0079] The aforementioned first surface temperature is the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the shaved ice is made.

[0080] Step S260: If the shaved ice is not used within a preset second time after it is made, the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is obtained in real time.

[0081] The aforementioned preset second time can be set according to the type of ice-making object. The preset second time is the time threshold for removing the slushie within the optimal taste window. If the slushie is not removed within the preset second time after it is made, its taste will deteriorate if no measures are taken. Therefore, preset measures need to be taken to preserve the slushie and maintain its optimal taste. These preset measures could include vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval, or other methods to maintain the slushie's taste; this embodiment does not specifically limit these methods. The aforementioned second surface temperature is the real-time surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the slushie is not removed within the preset second time after it is made.

[0082] Step S270: When the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted based on the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber, and the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval until the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold.

[0083] The aforementioned adjustment of the target variable temperature chamber temperature based on the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber can be based on the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object. For example, the larger the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object, the lower the temperature of the ice-making object (the lower it is than the temperature when the shaved ice was made), and the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted to be higher than the second temperature (so that the surface temperature of the ice-making object returns to the temperature when the shaved ice was made). Conversely, the smaller the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object, the closer the temperature of the ice-making object is to the first surface temperature (the temperature when the shaved ice was made), and the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted to be closer to the second temperature, or the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is not adjusted.

[0084] It should be noted that when the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber needs to be monitored. When the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the process of adjusting the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber based on the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber, and vibrating the ice-making object according to a preset second time interval, continues until the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold. This process maintains the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object at a level less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold. During this process, if the second surface temperature of the ice-making object is higher than the first surface temperature, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is lowered; if the second surface temperature of the ice-making object is lower than the first surface temperature, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is raised. The purpose is to maintain the texture of the shaved ice by adjusting the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber and vibrating the ice-making object.

[0085] Steps S250 to S270 involve reading the first surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the slush is made. If the slush is not used within a preset second time interval after its completion, the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is acquired in real time. Based on the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted. The ice-making object is then vibrated according to a preset second time interval until the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. By adjusting the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber and vibrating the ice-making object, the texture of the slush is maintained.

[0086] The present embodiment will now be described and illustrated through preferred embodiments.

[0087] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a preferred embodiment of a smoothie making method provided in this application. Figure 3 As shown, the method for making this smoothie includes the following steps:

[0088] Step S301: In response to the received ice-making request, determine the first temperature and the preset first time interval corresponding to the ice-making request;

[0089] Step S302: With the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber set to the first temperature, the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is acquired in real time; the target variable temperature chamber is a variable temperature chamber used to make ice slush from the ice-making object.

[0090] Step S303: When the surface temperature change of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, the preset second time interval, the target duration of each vibration, and the preset number of vibrations are determined based on the type of the ice-making object.

[0091] Step S304: A vibration lasting for a target duration is performed to complete one vibration. Vibration is performed once every preset second time interval to complete the preset number of vibrations, thus obtaining a shaved ice.

[0092] Step S305: Send a notification message to the user that the smoothie is ready;

[0093] Step S306: Read the first surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber when the shaved ice is made;

[0094] Step S307: If the shaved ice is not used within a preset second time after it is made, the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber is obtained in real time.

[0095] Step S308: When the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is adjusted based on the second surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber, and the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval until the difference between the second surface temperature and the first surface temperature of the ice-making object is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold.

[0096] Steps S301 to S308 above involve acquiring the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time when the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to a first temperature. The ice-making object is determined to be freezing by checking whether its surface temperature change within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. If the surface temperature change within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, it is determined that the ice-making object is freezing. Then, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibration once every preset second time interval. This vibration causes the ice-making object to be vibrated during the freezing process, generating shaved ice. The shaved ice generated by this vibration does not separate into layers and has fine particles, solving the problem that existing shaved ice making methods produce shaved ice with unsatisfactory taste and appearance.

[0097] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above 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 embodiments described above 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.

[0098] Based on the same inventive concept, this embodiment also provides a smoothie-making device, which is used to implement the above embodiments and preferred embodiments, and will not be repeated as already described. The terms "module," "unit," "subunit," etc., used below can refer to combinations of software and / or hardware that achieve a predetermined function. Although the device described in the following embodiments is preferably implemented in software, hardware implementation, or a combination of software and hardware, is also possible and contemplated.

[0099] In one embodiment, Figure 4 This is a structural block diagram of a slush-making apparatus provided in one embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the smoothie-making device includes:

[0100] Temperature acquisition module 42 is used to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time when the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber is set to the first temperature; the target variable temperature chamber is a variable temperature chamber used to make ice slush from the ice-making object.

[0101] And the slush-making module 44 is used to vibrate the ice-making object according to the rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the surface temperature of the ice-making object changes less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold during a preset first time interval, so as to obtain slush.

[0102] The aforementioned slush-making device, by setting the temperature of the target variable temperature chamber to a first temperature, acquires the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature chamber in real time. It determines whether the ice-making object is freezing by checking whether the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold. If the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, it is determined that the ice-making object is freezing. At this time, the ice-making object is vibrated according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval, so that the ice-making object is vibrated during the freezing process, generating slush. The slush generated by vibration does not produce layering and has fine particles, solving the problem that existing slush-making methods produce slush with unsatisfactory taste and appearance.

[0103] It should be noted that the above modules can be functional modules or program modules, and can be implemented through software or hardware. For modules implemented through hardware, the above modules can reside in the same processor; or the above modules can be located in different processors in any combination.

[0104] In one embodiment, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in one embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the refrigerator includes a refrigerator compartment 510, a freezer compartment 520, a variable temperature compartment 530, and a main control module 540. The variable temperature compartment 530 is located between the refrigerator compartment 510 and the freezer compartment 520. Figure 5As shown, the refrigerator includes two variable-temperature compartments, each with its own independent air vents and dampers for temperature control, ensuring they do not interfere with each other. When not making smoothies, both compartments can be used for regular food storage, with a temperature between -12℃ and -4℃. When smoothies are desired, the user can select "sparkling" or "non-sparkling" beverages, and the compartment will control the smoothie preparation accordingly. The purpose of designing two compartments is to allow for the simultaneous preparation of smoothies for different types of beverages.

[0105] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the variable temperature compartment of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the variable temperature chamber 530 includes an infrared sensor 531 and a vibration unit 532;

[0106] Infrared sensor 531 is used to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature chamber 530 in real time;

[0107] Vibration unit 532 is used to vibrate the ice-making object in response to a received vibration command;

[0108] The main control module 540 is connected to the infrared sensor 531 and the vibration unit 532. It is used to send a vibration command to the vibration unit 532 based on the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature chamber 530 obtained by the infrared sensor 531, so as to realize any of the ice slush making methods in the above embodiments.

[0109] The aforementioned vibration unit can be a vibration device that can perform high-frequency vibration based on received vibration commands. It is used for vibration control after the beverage temperature reaches the freezing point, so that the beverage vibrates to form slush and is less likely to form ice cubes.

[0110] See also Figure 6 The variable temperature compartment 530 also includes two air outlets 533 and a corrugated plate 534;

[0111] Air outlet 533 is used to input low-temperature airflow into variable temperature chamber 530 based on a set first temperature or second temperature;

[0112] The corrugated tray 534 is a heat-conducting metal tray with a corrugated surface, used to hold ice-making objects.

[0113] The corrugated disc described above has a corrugated design, which increases the contact area between the beverage bottle and the cooling plate, resulting in more uniform cooling. Typically, the corrugated disc 534 is placed above the vibration device and vibrates in sync with it.

[0114] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for making smoothies according to another preferred embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 7As shown, this embodiment is designed with three scenarios in mind: 4-hour slushie production, 8-hour slushie production, and 12-hour slushie production, corresponding to scenarios where beverages are placed in the morning for use at noon and afternoon, and beverages are placed in the evening for use the next day. For faster slushie production, the 4-hour slushie production scenario is selected. The variable temperature compartment automatically sets the minimum temperature to -12℃, and the damper remains open for cooling without defrosting. When the sensor detects that the beverage temperature (surface temperature) fluctuates by no more than 0.5℃ within 15 minutes, the beverage is considered to be in the freezing process. Then, vibration and alerts are controlled according to the user-defined beverage type. The vibration device outputs high-frequency vibration to interfere with ice crystal nucleation and growth. For non-carbonated beverages, the vibration device vibrates for 3 minutes every 30 minutes after freezing to control the ice crystal size and ensure even mixing with the liquid to form a slushie. 2.5 hours after freezing, the variable temperature compartment stops cooling and automatically sets to -4℃. Simultaneously, the refrigerator sends a command to the user, indicating the slushie is complete. For carbonated beverages, the vibration device vibrates for 3 minutes every 2 hours after freezing. Two hours after freezing, the variable temperature compartment stops cooling and automatically sets to -4℃. Two hours and 15 minutes after freezing, the refrigerator sends a notification to the user that the smoothie is ready. If the smoothie is not removed within 10 minutes of its completion, the variable temperature compartment cycles through cooling based on the beverage temperature, ensuring that temperature fluctuations do not exceed 0.5℃ of the freezing temperature. The vibration device continues to operate according to the previous vibration control for different types to maintain the smoothie state. If the 8-hour or 12-hour smoothie setting is selected, a slightly higher freezing temperature can be used, and a pre-cooling stage is added, resulting in a more uniform temperature change inside the beverage and a more even smoothie formation. Once the beverage begins to freeze, vibration and notifications are also triggered according to the different types.

[0115] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in 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. When executed, the computer program can include the processes of the embodiments described above. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile 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, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0116] 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 specification.

[0117] 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 method of making a smoothie, characterized in that, The method comprises: acquiring the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target temperature-variable room in real time when the temperature of the target temperature-variable room is set to a first temperature; the target temperature-variable room is a temperature-variable room for making smoothies for the ice-making object; when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval to obtain a smoothie.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before acquiring the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target temperature-variable room in real time when the temperature of the target temperature-variable room is set to a first temperature, the method comprises: determining the first temperature corresponding to the ice-making demand in response to the received ice-making demand.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold to obtain a smoothie, the method comprises: determining the preset first time interval corresponding to the ice-making demand in response to the received ice-making demand.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method of vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold to obtain a smoothie comprises: when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within the preset first time interval is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold, determining, based on the type of the ice-making object, a preset second time interval corresponding to the ice-making object, a target duration of each vibration, and a preset number of vibrations; performing a vibration with a duration of the target duration as one vibration, and performing the preset number of vibrations every preset second time interval to obtain the smoothie.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, After vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold to obtain a smoothie, the method comprises: setting the temperature of the target temperature-variable room to a second temperature; the second temperature is higher than or equal to the first temperature.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, After vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold to obtain a smoothie, the method comprises: sending a reminder information of the completion of the making of the smoothie to a user.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, After vibrating the ice-making object according to a rule of vibrating once every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold to obtain a smoothie, the method comprises: reading the first surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target temperature-variable room when the making of the smoothie is completed; If the smoothie is not taken within a preset second time after the smoothie is made, the surface second temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature room is acquired in real time; When the difference between the surface second temperature of the ice-making object and the surface first temperature is greater than the preset temperature difference threshold, the temperature of the target variable temperature room is adjusted based on the surface second temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature room, and the ice-making object is vibrated according to the rule of vibrating every preset second time interval until the difference between the surface second temperature of the ice-making object and the surface first temperature is less than or equal to the preset temperature difference threshold.

8. A smoothie making device, characterized by The device comprises: The temperature acquisition module is configured to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the target variable temperature room in real time when the temperature of the target variable temperature room is set to the first temperature; the target variable temperature room is a variable temperature room for making smoothies for the ice-making object; The smoothie making module is configured to vibrate the ice-making object according to the rule of vibrating every preset second time interval when the temperature change of the surface temperature of the ice-making object within a preset first time interval is less than or equal to a preset temperature difference threshold, to obtain a smoothie.

9. A refrigerator comprising a refrigerating chamber, a freezing chamber, a variable temperature chamber, and a main control module, the variable temperature chamber being located between the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, characterized in that, The variable temperature room comprises an infrared sensor vibration unit; The infrared sensor is configured to acquire the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature room in real time; The vibration unit is configured to vibrate the ice-making object in response to a received vibration command; The main control module is connected to the infrared sensor and the vibration unit, and is configured to send the vibration command to the vibration unit based on the surface temperature of the ice-making object in the variable temperature room acquired by the infrared sensor, to implement the steps of the smoothie making method of any one of claims 1-7.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The variable temperature room further comprises an air outlet and a corrugated disc; The air outlet is configured to input a low-temperature airflow into the variable temperature room based on a set first temperature or a second temperature; The corrugated disc is a cold-conducting metal disc with a corrugated surface, configured to place the ice-making object.

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