Refrigeration appliance and method of controlling a refrigeration appliance

Abstract

This invention discloses a refrigeration device and a control method for the refrigeration device, relating to the field of refrigeration equipment technology. The refrigeration device includes an evaporator, a water receiving tank, a defrosting component, and a controller. The controller is configured to: determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration device; when the operating condition type is medium temperature, first control the evaporator to enter a counter-current defrosting mode, and start the defrosting component when the evaporator enters the sensible heat defrosting stage; after the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and stop the defrosting component when the refrigeration device meets the defrosting end condition. Under high temperature conditions, if the frost amount is greater than or equal to a preset frost amount, the evaporator counter-current defrosting and the defrosting component are started simultaneously; after the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and shut down the defrosting component when the defrosting end condition is met; if the frost amount is less than the preset frost amount, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium temperature operating condition are executed. Based on the above refrigeration device, energy consumption can be optimized while ensuring defrosting effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and in particular to a refrigeration device and a control method for the refrigeration device. Background Technology

[0002] When refrigeration equipment (such as refrigerators and freezers) is running, frost will form on the surface of the evaporator due to the condensation of water vapor in the air. The accumulation of frost will seriously hinder air circulation, reduce heat exchange efficiency, and lead to increased energy consumption and performance degradation of the refrigeration system. Therefore, efficient and reliable defrosting technology is the key to ensuring the stable operation of refrigeration equipment.

[0003] Existing defrosting technologies for refrigeration equipment mainly include two modes: one is evaporator counter-current defrosting, which uses a four-way valve to switch the flow direction of the refrigeration system and uses the high-temperature refrigerant discharged from the compressor to melt the frost layer on the evaporator surface; the other is electric heating defrosting, which uses an electric heating element to melt the frost at the water tank. In related technologies, these two defrosting modes typically adopt a control strategy of simultaneous on / off operation, that is, the electric heating is simultaneously turned on when counter-current defrosting starts and simultaneously turned off when counter-current defrosting stops.

[0004] However, the heating process of electric defrosting takes a certain amount of time to reach the effective defrosting temperature. If electric heating is turned on simultaneously at the beginning of countercurrent defrosting, it will cause the electric heating to continue to run before the effective defrosting temperature is reached, resulting in a large amount of energy waste. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a refrigeration device and a control method for the refrigeration device, which can solve the problem that existing defrosting technology requires a large amount of energy.

[0006] In a first aspect, a refrigeration device is provided, including an evaporator configured to release heat to melt frost on the surface of the evaporator when entering a counter-current defrosting mode;

[0007] The water tank is configured to collect the defrost water melted from the evaporator.

[0008] The defrosting component is configured to melt the frost in the water tank when performing a defrosting operation;

[0009] The controller is configured as follows:

[0010] Detect the current ambient temperature to determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment; the operating condition types include medium temperature condition and high temperature condition;

[0011] When the operating condition is medium temperature, the evaporator is controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the evaporator enters the preset sensible heat defrosting stage, the defrosting component is controlled to perform the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting end conditions, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation.

[0012] When the operating condition is high temperature, if the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component performs the defrosting operation. When the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode. When the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation. When the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is less than the preset amount of frost, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium temperature operating condition are executed.

[0013] In the above technical solution, the controller can first detect the current ambient temperature and classify the refrigeration equipment into medium-temperature and high-temperature operating conditions, providing a precise scenario adaptation basis for defrosting control and making the control logic more consistent with actual frosting patterns. Under medium-temperature conditions, the controller can first control the evaporator to enter counter-current defrosting mode, utilizing the heat released by counter-current defrosting to preferentially melt the frost on the evaporator surface. At this time, the defrosting components do not start, effectively reducing unnecessary energy consumption. When the evaporator enters the sensible heat defrosting stage (the frost layer begins to melt in large quantities and fall into the drip tray), the defrosting components are then activated to specifically melt the frost in the drip tray, avoiding ineffective heating by the defrosting components before the frost layer falls off. After the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the controller controls the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and continues to run the defrosting components until the defrosting termination conditions are met. This ensures both the complete melting of the frost layer on the evaporator surface and the complete dissolution of stubborn frost in the drip tray, while avoiding prolonged synchronous operation of counter-current defrosting and the defrosting components, further reducing energy consumption. Under high-temperature conditions, the controller can simultaneously activate the counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components when the frost level is greater than or equal to the preset frost level. This addresses more severe frost formation under high-temperature environments and accelerates defrosting. Furthermore, once the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the controller exits the counter-current defrosting mode and continues operating the defrosting components until the defrosting termination conditions are met, balancing defrosting efficiency and thoroughness. When the frost level is less than the preset frost level, the controller executes the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium-temperature conditions, avoiding unnecessary simultaneous activation and further optimizing energy consumption while ensuring defrosting effectiveness. Based on the above explanation, through the dual adaptation of operating condition division and frost level judgment, precise control of the defrosting process is achieved, improving both the thoroughness and efficiency of defrosting while effectively reducing energy consumption.

[0014] In one embodiment, the operating condition type further includes a low-temperature operating condition; the controller is also configured to:

[0015] When operating at low temperatures, the evaporator is synchronously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components perform defrosting operations.

[0016] When the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components are controlled to stop performing defrosting operations.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the control strategy of synchronously starting and stopping counter-current defrosting and defrosting components under low-temperature conditions can accurately compensate for the insufficient heat output of counter-current defrosting in low-temperature environments. By superimposing the heat from the two defrosting methods, defrosting efficiency is improved, avoiding problems such as excessively long defrosting time, incomplete frost melting, or secondary freezing caused by relying solely on counter-current defrosting. Simultaneously, the synchronous start-stop control logic is relatively simple, eliminating the need for complex stage judgments and timing coupling programs, thus reducing the computational load on the controller. Furthermore, this control method can effectively prevent excessive frost accumulation and blockage of the evaporator ducts under low-temperature conditions, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigeration system, improving the operational stability and reliability of the refrigeration equipment in low-temperature environments, and ensuring that the equipment maintains good cooling performance even in low ambient temperature scenarios.

[0018] In one embodiment, after the controller controls the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, it is further configured to:

[0019] Obtain the inlet temperature of the refrigeration cycle in the evaporator;

[0020] If the inlet temperature is equal to the first preset temperature, then the evaporator is determined to have entered the sensible heat defrosting stage;

[0021] If the inlet temperature is equal to the second preset temperature, then the evaporator has completed the sensible defrosting stage; the second preset temperature is greater than the first preset temperature.

[0022] In the above technical solution, after the evaporator enters the counter-current defrosting mode, by detecting the inlet temperature at the refrigeration cycle and using a second preset temperature higher than the first preset temperature as the judgment node, it can accurately determine that the refrigeration unit has entered the sensible heat Hausa stage, where the frost layer begins its solid-liquid phase change, when the inlet temperature rises to the first preset temperature. This precisely triggers the defrosting components to start and matches the timing of frost layer falling, avoiding energy waste caused by ineffective preheating of the defrosting components during the latent heat defrosting stage. Furthermore, when the inlet temperature rises to the second preset temperature, it can be promptly determined that the evaporator has completed the sensible heat defrosting stage and the frost layer on the evaporator surface has basically melted. Based on this, the evaporator can be controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, eliminating ineffective energy consumption and temperature rise inside the unit caused by continuous heating during counter-current defrosting, achieving precise identification and control of the defrosting process. Therefore, while ensuring thorough defrosting, energy consumption is significantly reduced, improving the operational stability and energy-saving effect of the refrigeration equipment under different operating conditions.

[0023] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to:

[0024] Obtain the chamber temperature in the evaporator;

[0025] If the chamber temperature is equal to the third preset temperature, then the refrigeration equipment is determined to meet the defrosting end condition; the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0026] The above technical solution uses a third preset temperature, higher than the second preset temperature, as the defrosting termination condition. When the evaporator chamber temperature equals the third preset temperature, the defrosting termination condition is determined to be met. This not only visually reflects that the frost in the water tank has completely melted and there is no residual frost around the evaporator, ensuring thorough defrosting, but also allows for timely termination of heating after defrosting, avoiding excessive energy waste caused by excessive temperature rise in the chamber and excessive temperature increase inside the unit, thus improving the stability and energy efficiency of the refrigeration equipment.

[0027] In one embodiment, a first defrost sensor is further included, configured to detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator; the controller is further configured to:

[0028] The chamber temperature is obtained from the first defrosting sensor;

[0029] The difference between the chamber temperature and the preset temperature is calculated to obtain the inlet temperature; the preset temperature difference is used to describe the temperature difference between the temperature detected by the first defrost sensor and the temperature at the refrigeration cycle.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the chamber temperature is detected by a first defrost sensor and the inlet temperature is calculated by combining it with a preset temperature difference, eliminating the need for an additional dedicated temperature sensor on the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet pipe. This not only reduces the number of sensors used, lowering the hardware cost and piping installation difficulty, but also ensures the accuracy of the inlet temperature calculation based on the preset temperature difference, without affecting the determination of the sensible heat defrosting stage. Thus, it achieves a dual optimization of cost control and defrosting control accuracy.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first defrost sensor is located in an area within a preset distance from the evaporator.

[0032] In the above technical solution, by limiting the location of the first defrost sensor within a preset distance from the evaporator, it is possible not only to ensure that the chamber temperature detected by the sensor stably reflects the evaporator's operating condition, avoiding interference from localized high temperatures when too close or the inability to detect temperature changes when too far, but also to provide a basis for the stable calibration of the preset temperature difference, thereby improving the accuracy of the conversion from chamber temperature to the refrigeration cycle inlet temperature. Furthermore, it allows for precise determination of the start and end times of the sensible heat defrosting stage, optimizing the start / stop logic of the defrosting components and reducing ineffective energy consumption.

[0033] In one embodiment, a first defrost sensor is also included, configured to detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator;

[0034] The second defrost sensor is configured to detect the inlet temperature at the evaporator refrigeration cycle.

[0035] In the above technical solution, dual defrosting sensors are used to detect the chamber temperature and the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet temperature respectively, which eliminates the step of converting the chamber temperature to the inlet temperature and directly obtains accurate inlet temperature data. This effectively avoids errors caused by indirect conversion, improves the accuracy of determining the start and end of the sensible heat defrosting stage, and allows for precise control of the start / stop of defrosting components and the timing of exiting counter-current defrosting.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first defrost sensor is located in an area within a preset distance from the evaporator; the second defrost sensor is located at the inlet pipe of the evaporator refrigeration cycle.

[0037] In the above technical solution, through the division of labor among the dual defrost sensors, the first defrost sensor stably detects the chamber temperature within a preset distance of the evaporator, providing a reliable reference for the defrosting end condition and ensuring thorough defrosting of the water tank; the second defrost sensor is directly installed on the inlet pipe, accurately acquiring the inlet temperature and achieving accurate determination of the sensible heat defrosting stage, avoiding ineffective energy consumption; the two work together and complement each other, improving the accuracy and reliability of defrosting control.

[0038] In one embodiment, after detecting the current ambient temperature and determining the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment, the controller is further configured to:

[0039] Count the number of times the refrigeration equipment door is opened within a preset time period;

[0040] If the number of times the door is opened is greater than or equal to the preset number of times, then the amount of frost is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost.

[0041] If the number of times the door is opened is less than the preset number, then the amount of frost is determined to be less than the preset amount of frost.

[0042] In the above technical solution, the number of door openings within a preset time period is counted. If the number of door openings is greater than or equal to the preset number, the frost amount is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset frost amount; conversely, if the number of door openings is less than the preset number, the frost amount is determined to be less than the preset frost amount. Based on this, there is no need to configure additional sensors for direct detection of frost thickness and weight, reducing the hardware cost and assembly / maintenance difficulty of the equipment. At the same time, the statistical logic is simple and easy to implement, resulting in low computational load on the controller. Furthermore, while ensuring thorough defrosting, ineffective defrosting operations are avoided, improving the operating efficiency and stability of the refrigeration equipment.

[0043] Secondly, a control method for a refrigeration device is provided, applied to the refrigeration device of the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0044] Detect the current ambient temperature to determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment; the operating condition types include medium temperature condition and high temperature condition;

[0045] When the operating condition is medium temperature, the evaporator is controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode. When the evaporator enters the preset sensible heat defrosting stage, the defrosting components are controlled to perform the defrosting operation. When the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode. When the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting end conditions, the defrosting components are controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation. When the evaporator enters the counter-current defrosting mode, it releases heat to melt the frost on the evaporator surface. When the defrosting components perform the defrosting operation, they melt the frost in the water collection tank. The water collection tank is used to collect the melted frost water from the evaporator.

[0046] When the operating condition is high temperature, if the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components perform the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, the defrosting components are controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation; and when the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is less than the preset amount of frost, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium temperature operating condition are executed.

[0047] Thirdly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program that, when run by a refrigeration device, causes the refrigeration device to perform the control method for the refrigeration device described in the second aspect.

[0048] Fourthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising: a computer program that, when run by a refrigeration device, causes the refrigeration device to execute the control method for the refrigeration device described in the second aspect.

[0049] It is understood that the beneficial effects of the second to fourth aspects mentioned above can be found in the relevant descriptions in the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigeration device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario comparing countercurrent defrosting temperatures under different ambient temperatures, provided by an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the temperature change of the water tank during defrosting in a defrosting component according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram illustrating the change in evaporator surface temperature during counter-current defrosting, provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a timing interaction diagram of a control method for a refrigeration device in one embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an application scenario provided by an embodiment of the present application, showing the timing control and temperature change of the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component under medium-temperature conditions.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the power consumption difference between counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting component sequential control and simultaneous start-stop control under medium temperature conditions, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a refrigeration device under low-temperature conditions according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram comparing the temperature changes of an evaporator in a counter-current defrosting mode under medium and low temperature conditions, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the process for determining whether the evaporator has entered and completed the sensible heat defrosting stage in a control method for a refrigeration device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of determining whether a refrigeration device meets the defrosting end conditions in a control method for a refrigeration device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of a refrigeration device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of a refrigeration device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the process for determining whether the amount of frost is greater than or equal to a preset amount of frost in a control method for a refrigeration device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0064] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in this text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more than two.

[0065] Hereinafter, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first," "second," or "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0066] Specific details, such as particular system architectures and techniques, are set forth for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this application can be implemented in other embodiments without these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, apparatuses, circuits, and methods are omitted to avoid unnecessary detail that could obscure the description of this application.

[0067] When refrigeration equipment (such as refrigerators and freezers) is running, frost will form on the surface of the evaporator due to the condensation of water vapor in the air. The accumulation of frost will seriously hinder air circulation, reduce heat exchange efficiency, and lead to increased energy consumption and performance degradation of the refrigeration system. Therefore, efficient and reliable defrosting technology is the key to ensuring the stable operation of refrigeration equipment.

[0068] The defrosting technology of existing refrigeration equipment mainly includes two modes: one is evaporator counter-flow defrosting, which switches the flow direction of the refrigeration system through a four-way valve and uses the high-temperature refrigerant discharged by the compressor to melt the frost layer on the surface of the evaporator; the other is electric heating defrosting, which melts the frost at the water tank through an electric heating component.

[0069] Specifically, taking a refrigerator as an example of a refrigeration device, refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device according to an embodiment of this application. During refrigerator operation, frost forms on the evaporator surface. The accumulation of frost severely hinders airflow, reduces heat exchange efficiency, leads to a decrease in refrigeration system capacity, increased energy consumption, and even malfunctions preventing refrigeration operation. Therefore, timely, efficient, and reliable defrosting is a key technology for ensuring the efficient operation of refrigerator products. The evaporator counter-current defrosting method involves switching the refrigeration system to heating mode via a four-way valve, using the high-temperature refrigerant gas discharged from the compressor to melt the frost layer on the evaporator.

[0070] Based on the counter-current defrosting characteristic, the evaporator can be transformed into a condenser, with high-temperature refrigerant transferred from the inside out. At this time, heat acts directly on the frost adhering to the evaporator, melting some of the frost, but most of the frost will detach and accumulate in the bottom drip tray as its adhesion to the evaporator decreases. Furthermore, the frost in the drip tray can be melted using an electric heating element at the bottom of the drip tray.

[0071] In related technologies, these two defrosting modes typically employ a control strategy of simultaneous activation and deactivation, meaning that electric heating is activated simultaneously when countercurrent defrosting starts and deactivated simultaneously when countercurrent defrosting deactivates.

[0072] However, the above control methods are difficult to adapt to complex and changing environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) and system status changes. If the electric heater starts too early or stops too late (i.e., excessive defrosting heat), the frost layer at the bottom may melt too quickly, while the counter-current flow at the top of the evaporator continues to defrost and shed frost, resulting in wasted heat at the bottom. If the electric heater starts too late or stops too early (i.e., insufficient defrosting heat), the thick frost layer at the bottom cannot be effectively melted, and stubborn frost may remain at the bottom when defrosting ends. Furthermore, the counter-current defrosting heat is greatly affected by system conditions (such as ambient temperature and compressor operating status), exhibiting fluctuations.

[0073] For example, refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario where the temperature of counter-current defrosting is compared under different ambient temperatures, according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This demonstrates the differences in temperature change over time during countercurrent defrosting under different ambient temperatures. Figure 2 The vertical axis represents temperature (unit: °C), ranging from 0 °C to 60 °C, reflecting the temperature level of the evaporator or related monitoring points during counter-current defrosting. The horizontal axis represents the defrosting time (from start to finish), showing the dynamic change in temperature as defrosting progresses. The two curves correspond to two different ambient temperature conditions (such as medium temperature and high temperature, or low temperature and medium temperature), demonstrating the temperature response of counter-current defrosting under different ambient temperatures.

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, curve 1 heats up faster and has a higher peak temperature, indicating that at this ambient temperature, the heat output of counter-current defrosting is more sufficient, and the evaporator temperature rises more rapidly. Curve 2 heats up more slowly and has a lower peak temperature, indicating that at another ambient temperature, the heat output of counter-current defrosting is relatively insufficient, and the temperature rise is more gradual. Therefore, it can be directly proven that the heat output and temperature changes of counter-current defrosting are not constant, but highly dependent on ambient temperature and other operating conditions, exhibiting significant fluctuations.

[0075] Based on this, it can be assumed that most related technologies employ simple on / off control (such as simultaneous start / stop of counter-current defrosting and electric heating), but Figure 2 The results show that the temperature change rhythm of countercurrent defrosting varies greatly under different ambient temperatures. In this case, if the start / stop timing of the electric heater is fixed, it is easy for the electric heater to start too early when the ambient temperature is high and the heat of countercurrent defrosting is sufficient, resulting in wasted heat; and when the ambient temperature is low and the heat of countercurrent defrosting is insufficient, the electric heater to start too late, resulting in incomplete defrosting.

[0076] For example, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the temperature change of the water tank during defrosting in a defrosting component according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the temperature change of the evaporator surface during counter-current defrosting, according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 The horizontal axis represents time (in minutes), and the vertical axis represents the surface temperature of the electric heater (°C). The curve shows that the temperature is close to 0°C in the first 5 minutes, then begins to rise rapidly, stabilizing above 100°C after about 17 minutes. The heating in the surface electric heating mode is a gradual process, rather than reaching maximum heat instantaneously.

[0077] And, such as Figure 4 As shown, countercurrent defrosting is divided into two stages: latent heat and sensible heat. The heat utilization efficiency differs between these stages. Stage division: Latent heat stage (1-6 minutes): The temperature rises from approximately -20℃ to 0℃. During this stage, the temperature rises but the frost does not melt, consuming heat for heating. Sensible heat stage (6-9 minutes): The temperature fluctuates around 0℃ and then continues to rise. Frost begins to fall, and heat is used to melt the frost. Ineffective heat stage (after 9 minutes): The evaporator defrosts completely; continuing to supply heat is ineffective.

[0078] Based on this, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 When both electric heating defrosting and counter-current defrosting modes are activated simultaneously, the electric heating mode has a preheating phase of 5-10 minutes: the temperature slowly rises from 0℃, reaching the effective defrosting temperature after about 10 minutes. During this phase, all the heat is used to heat the heating element itself and not to melt the frost layer in the water tank; this is a "heating only, not defrosting" heating process. Similarly, the counter-current defrosting mode has a latent heat phase of 5-6 minutes: the evaporator temperature rises from around -20℃ to 0℃. During this phase, all the heat is used to raise the temperature of the frost layer; the frost layer does not melt, also a "heating only, not defrosting" heating process.

[0079] If both modes are activated simultaneously, during the first 5-10 minutes of defrosting, the counter-current defrosting is essentially "heating up" the frost layer without any actual heating, and the electric heating is also "heating up" without any actual heating. Neither mode's heat is used for defrosting, and the defrosting efficiency is extremely low.

[0080] Furthermore, when both modes are stopped simultaneously, it can easily lead to ineffective heating after the sensible heat stage and incomplete defrosting. From Figure 4 It can be seen that counter-current defrosting enters the ineffective heat stage after about 9 minutes: the frost layer on the evaporator surface has basically melted, and continuing to supply heat will only cause the evaporator temperature to continue to rise, resulting in a rise in the internal temperature and wasted energy. However, from Figure 3 It can be seen that the electric heating mode takes 10 minutes to reach the effective defrosting temperature, at which point the frost that has fallen into the water tank will begin to melt effectively.

[0081] Therefore, if the electric heating mode is stopped simultaneously when both modes cease operation, at the end of the counter-current sensible heating phase (around 9 minutes), the electric heating mode will be forced to shut down as soon as it reaches the effective temperature. This prevents the stubborn frost in the water tank from completely melting, resulting in incomplete defrosting. Furthermore, if the operation time of both modes is extended to ensure thorough defrosting, the counter-current defrosting will continue to provide heat during the ineffective phase, causing a significant waste of heat and a rise in the internal temperature, thus affecting the cooling effect.

[0082] Based on the above explanation, in order to reduce energy consumption, refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a timing diagram illustrating a control method for a refrigeration device according to an embodiment of this application. The refrigeration device includes an evaporator configured to release heat to melt frost on its surface when entering a counter-current defrosting mode; a water collection tank configured to collect the melted frost water from the evaporator; and a defrosting component configured to melt the frost in the water collection tank during the defrosting operation.

[0083] The evaporator, counter-current defrosting mode, and water collection tank have already been explained above, so they will not be repeated here. It should be noted that the defrosting component is an electrically heated part specially configured at the bottom of the water collection tank. Its function is to specifically melt the frost and residual ice that fall from the surface of the evaporator into the water collection tank during the counter-current defrosting process, preventing the frost water from refreezing in the water collection tank or forming an ice layer that blocks the drainage channel.

[0084] The aforementioned defrosting components and the counter-current defrosting mode of the evaporator form a zoned defrosting design. The evaporator is responsible for melting the frost layer on its own surface, while the defrosting components are responsible for handling the frost layer in the water tank area. The two work together to complete the defrosting of the entire area.

[0085] Furthermore, the aforementioned defrosting operation refers to the heating and defrosting action dynamically executed by the defrosting component under the control of the controller, according to different operating conditions and defrosting stages, as specifically illustrated in the following embodiments. Figure 5As shown, the controller is configured to perform the following steps:

[0086] S501. Detect the current ambient temperature to determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment.

[0087] The operating conditions include medium-temperature conditions and high-temperature conditions.

[0088] In one embodiment, the aforementioned current ambient temperature refers to the real-time air temperature of the external environment where the refrigeration equipment (such as a refrigerator) is located, i.e., the ambient temperature of the room / space where the refrigeration equipment is located. Typically, the current ambient temperature can directly affect the operating load of the refrigeration system, the frosting rate, and the heat output efficiency of counter-flow defrosting.

[0089] As an example, a refrigeration device can acquire the current ambient temperature through a separately configured ambient temperature sensor.

[0090] The above-mentioned operating condition types can be categorized into various operating conditions based on ambient temperature thresholds. For example, operating condition types can be divided into three categories: low temperature operating condition, medium temperature operating condition, and high temperature operating condition.

[0091] As an example, the ambient temperature corresponding to the low-temperature condition is below 10℃, the ambient temperature corresponding to the medium-temperature condition is between 10℃ and 35℃, and the ambient temperature corresponding to the high-temperature condition can be above 35℃.

[0092] It should be noted that the controller obtains the current ambient temperature through an ambient temperature sensor and classifies the operating scenario of the refrigeration equipment into medium-temperature, high-temperature, and low-temperature conditions based on the current ambient temperature. This allows for the use of different defrosting control logics for different operating conditions, accurately adapting to the frosting patterns under different environments. This avoids incomplete defrosting or energy waste caused by a single control logic, achieving efficient and energy-saving defrosting.

[0093] S502. When the operating condition is medium temperature, control the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the evaporator enters the preset sensible heat defrosting stage, control the defrosting component to perform the defrosting operation.

[0094] S503. When the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, control the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting end conditions, control the defrosting components to stop performing the defrosting operation.

[0095] In one embodiment, the aforementioned sensible heat defrosting stage is the defrosting stage following the latent heat stage in the counter-current defrosting process. At this time, the heat released by the high-temperature refrigerant at the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet is no longer used to raise the temperature of the frost layer (latent heat stage), but is entirely used to drive a solid-liquid phase change in the frost layer on the evaporator surface. The frost layer melts directly from a solid to a liquid state and falls in large quantities into the water collection tank below. That is, the sensible heat defrosting stage is the main period for the melting of the frost layer on the evaporator body, and also the period when frost water is concentrated in the water collection tank.

[0096] As an example, the controller can determine whether the evaporator has entered the sensible defrosting stage by means of temperature determination, duration determination, or state correlation determination, and there is no limitation on this.

[0097] For example, the controller can record the start time of the countercurrent defrosting mode. When the countercurrent defrosting continues to run for a preset latent heat duration (such as 5 to 6 minutes, a fixed duration of the latent heat stage calibrated by experiments), it can be determined that the evaporator has entered the sensible heat defrosting stage.

[0098] Alternatively, the controller can determine that it has entered the sensible defrosting stage when it detects that the thickness of the frost layer on the evaporator surface begins to decrease continuously (or the weight begins to decrease continuously), or when it detects that the wind speed begins to rise through the air duct wind speed sensor (the frost layer melts, causing the air duct resistance to decrease).

[0099] In this embodiment, the method for determining whether the evaporator has entered the sensible heat defrosting stage is not limited.

[0100] Furthermore, the controller can determine the completion of the sensible heat defrosting stage of the evaporator in a similar manner to the example described above. For instance, starting from the determination of entering the sensible heat defrosting stage, the timer is maintained until a preset sensible heat duration (e.g., 3-4 minutes, the experimentally calibrated core duration of frost melting) is reached, at which point the sensible heat defrosting stage is considered complete. Alternatively, the sensible heat defrosting stage is considered complete when the frost thickness is detected to be ≤ a preset threshold (e.g., 0.5 mm), or when the frost water flow sensor in the water tank detects that the peak water flow has passed and the flow rate continues to decrease (the frost on the evaporator body has melted completely, and no new frost water is falling).

[0101] In this embodiment, the method for determining whether the evaporator has completed the sensible defrosting stage is not limited.

[0102] In one embodiment, the defrosting termination condition can be determined by whether the frost layer in the water tank has completely melted. For example, when the frost layer in the water tank has completely melted, the defrosting termination condition is determined to be met; or, after the defrosting component is started, it continues to run for a preset total defrosting time (e.g., 10-12 minutes), the defrosting termination condition is determined to be met. Alternatively, if the electric heating current of the defrosting component is detected to be stable at the rated value (no defrosting load, only maintaining its own temperature), it can be considered that the frost-free block needs to melt, and thus the defrosting termination condition can be determined to be met.

[0103] In this embodiment, the method for determining whether the defrosting end condition is met is not limited.

[0104] It should be noted that for medium-temperature operating conditions (10℃~35℃, sufficient heat for counter-current defrosting, and a stable frosting process), only the evaporator is controlled to enter counter-current defrosting mode. The latent heat stage is completed by relying on the heat released by the high-temperature refrigerant (e.g., raising the frost temperature to 0℃). During this stage, the defrosting components are not activated to avoid ineffective preheating energy consumption by the electric heater. Subsequently, when the evaporator is confirmed to have entered the sensible heat defrosting stage (the frost begins to melt and falls into the water collection tank) through the above-mentioned determination method, the controller immediately activates the defrosting components to perform the defrosting operation. At this time, the electric heater has completed preheating (or just reached the effective defrosting temperature), directly melting the frost in the water collection tank to prevent secondary freezing of the frost. Then, when it is determined that the evaporator has completed the sensible heat defrosting stage (the frost on the main body has basically melted), the controller immediately controls the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode to avoid continued heat output in the counter-current defrosting mode causing the internal temperature to rise and resulting in wasted energy. Finally, after the counter-current defrosting is discontinued, the defrosting component continues to work independently until the above-mentioned defrosting termination conditions are met (the frost in the water tank is completely melted and the frost water is drained), and finally stops the defrosting operation, completing the entire defrosting process under medium temperature conditions.

[0105] Based on this, by designing a sequence in which the counter-current defrosting mode runs first, followed by the defrosting component, the counter-current defrosting mode exits promptly, and the defrosting component exits last, the double waste energy consumption caused by the simultaneous start and stop of the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component can be perfectly avoided. Furthermore, this achieves the goal of zoned defrosting, where evaporator defrosting relies on the counter-current defrosting mode (energy saving) and water tank defrosting relies on the defrosting component (precise).

[0106] As an example, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of counter-current defrosting mode and timing control and temperature change of defrosting components under medium-temperature operating conditions, provided by an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 The horizontal axis represents time (minutes, 1-19 minutes), indicating the entire defrosting process. The vertical axis represents temperature (°C), reflecting the temperature changes of the evaporator (solid line in counter-current defrosting mode) and the electric heater (dashed line). Figure 6 The process is divided into several stages: Counter-current start: Around the 1st minute, the controller initiates the counter-current defrosting mode. Electric heating start: Around the 6th minute, the controller activates the defrosting unit to perform the defrosting operation. Counter-current defrosting mode exit: Around the 9th-10th minute, the controller controls the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode. Defrosting unit exit: Around the 19th minute, the controller controls the defrosting unit to stop the defrosting operation.

[0107] Under medium temperature control, Stage 1: Counter-current defrosting mode starts (0-6 minutes, latent heat defrosting stage), defrosting components do not start temporarily. Temperature change: Evaporator (solid line): slowly rises from -20℃ to 0℃. This is the latent heat defrosting stage. All the heat from the counter-current defrosting mode is used to raise the temperature of the frost layer. The frost layer does not melt, and no frost water falls. Defrosting components (dashed line): The temperature is maintained at a low temperature (close to -20℃), with no heating action to avoid ineffective preheating energy consumption. The purpose is to prioritize the use of the heat radiated by the counter-current defrosting mode to preheat the frost layer, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption by the defrosting components when there is no need for defrosting.

[0108] Phase 2: Defrosting Component Activation (6-10 minutes, sensible heat defrosting phase). When the evaporator enters the sensible heat defrosting phase (at the 6th minute, the evaporator temperature reaches 0℃, the frost begins to melt and fall into the drip tray), the controller can activate the defrosting component; at the 9th-10th minute, the evaporator completes the sensible heat phase (the frost has mostly melted), and the controller immediately exits the counter-current defrosting mode. Temperature Changes: Evaporator (solid line): Fluctuates around 0℃ before rising slightly, and the temperature slowly climbs after the sensible heat defrosting phase ends (only residual heat). Defrosting Component (dashed line): Rapidly heats up from a low temperature, gradually reaching the effective defrosting temperature (above 100℃). The purpose is to precisely match the timing of the frost falling to activate the defrosting component, allowing the heat from the defrosting component to directly melt the frost in the drip tray; simultaneously, the counter-current defrosting mode is immediately stopped after the sensible heat defrosting phase ends to avoid ineffective energy consumption and internal temperature rise caused by continuous heating in the counter-current defrosting mode.

[0109] Phase 3: Counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components exit sequentially (10-19 minutes, defrosting components finish). Action: Counter-current defrosting mode has stopped; the defrosting components continue running until the defrosting completion conditions are met, at which point they exit. Temperature changes: Evaporator (solid line): Temperature rises slowly and steadily, with no additional heat input. Defrosting components (dashed line): Temperature continues to rise to approximately 120°C, maintaining this high temperature until defrosting is complete. The purpose is to allow the defrosting components to independently and completely melt stubborn frost in the drip tray and drain the frost water, ensuring thorough defrosting.

[0110] As an example, refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the power consumption difference between counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting component sequential control and simultaneous start-stop control under medium-temperature conditions, provided by an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 The horizontal axis represents time (minutes, 1~22), indicating the time progress of the complete defrosting process. The vertical axis represents power (W), reflecting the total power output of the refrigeration equipment (counter-current defrosting mode + defrosting components) during the defrosting process. The dashed line represents the energy consumption change of the traditional counter-current defrosting control strategy with simultaneous start and stop of the defrosting components. The solid line represents the energy consumption change of the control strategy for steps S502-S503 mentioned above.

[0111] In the initial stage (1-11 minutes), starting from the 2nd minute, the power (dashed line) rapidly surged to over 220W and then slowly climbed to 300W. This is because the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component started simultaneously, and the defrosting component began preheating during the latent heat stage (before the frost melted and no defrost water dripped). At this time, the heat was entirely used for its own heating, which is ineffective energy consumption, resulting in a persistently high total power. The power (solid line) slowly climbed from 0, reaching only about 80W at the 10th minute, before rapidly rising to 220W at the 11th minute. This is because only the counter-current defrosting mode was activated, while the defrosting component was not yet activated. The heat from the counter-current defrosting mode was used to preheat the frost (late heat defrosting stage), avoiding ineffective preheating energy consumption by the defrosting component, resulting in a significantly lower total power.

[0112] During the mid-term (11-15 minutes), the power of the dashed line remains at a high level of 280-300W, with the counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components operating synchronously. The power of the solid line stabilizes at around 220W, at which point the defrosting components have been activated (matching the timing of defrosting during the sensible heat stage), but the counter-current defrosting mode has exited after the sensible heat defrosting stage ends (around the 10th minute), so the total power is lower than that of the dashed line.

[0113] In the later stages (15-22 minutes), the power of the dotted line drops sharply to 0 from the 15th minute, and the counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components stop simultaneously. At this point, because the defrosting components are shut off as soon as they reach the effective defrosting temperature, frost residue in the water tank and incomplete defrosting are likely to occur; at the same time, a large amount of ineffective energy consumption in the early stages has already been wasted. The power of the solid line remains at 220W until the 20th minute, and then quickly drops to 0, with only the defrosting components operating independently to complete the defrosting of the water tank. Thus, not only is thorough defrosting ensured, but ineffective heating in the counter-current defrosting mode is also avoided (the counter-current defrosting mode has already exited prematurely).

[0114] from Figure 7 It can be determined that area A marked in the diagram corresponds to the total energy consumption of the control strategy for simultaneous start-stop, and area B corresponds to the total energy consumption of the control strategy in steps S502-S503 above. From Figure 7 As can be seen intuitively, area A is much larger than area B, indicating that in the above steps S502-S503, by avoiding ineffective energy consumption in the early stage, the total energy consumption of defrosting can be significantly lower than the total energy consumption of the simultaneous start-stop strategy.

[0115] Therefore, under medium-temperature operating conditions, by delaying defrosting and prematurely exiting the counter-current defrosting mode, the double ineffective energy consumption during the latent heat defrosting stage can be eliminated, significantly reducing total energy consumption. Furthermore, it avoids the problem of frost residue remaining in the water collection tank due to premature shutdown of electric heating in simultaneous start-stop strategies. Additionally, prematurely exiting the counter-current defrosting mode reduces the impact on the temperature rise inside the refrigeration equipment, improving refrigeration stability.

[0116] S504. When the operating condition is high temperature, if the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components perform the defrosting operation.

[0117] In one embodiment, the amount of frost refers to the cumulative amount of frost formed by the condensation of water vapor in the air on the evaporator surface, fin gaps, and surrounding air ducts during the operation of the refrigeration equipment under high-temperature conditions. The amount of frost can usually be quantified by indicators such as frost thickness and coverage area.

[0118] It should be noted that excessive frost buildup can easily clog air ducts, reduce the heat exchange rate, and lead to increased cooling energy consumption and decreased cooling effect.

[0119] As an example, the controller can accumulate the continuous cooling operation time of the evaporator. The longer the cooling operation time, the longer the water vapor is in contact with the low-temperature surface of the evaporator, and the greater the amount of frost is usually. Alternatively, frost thickness data can be collected by a frost thickness sensor attached to the surface of the evaporator fins. Or, a weight sensor can be installed at the bottom of the evaporator to determine the amount of frost by monitoring changes in the weight of the accumulated frost. In this embodiment, the method for detecting the amount of frost is not limited.

[0120] The aforementioned preset frost level refers to the frost accumulation threshold, calibrated experimentally, that would significantly negatively impact the evaporator's heat exchange efficiency and the operation of the refrigeration system. This preset frost level can be set comprehensively considering factors such as ambient humidity and door opening frequency under high-temperature conditions, and is not limited in this regard.

[0121] The process of controlling the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting operation performed by the defrosting components have already been explained above, and will not be repeated here.

[0122] It should be noted that when the refrigeration equipment is operating at high temperatures, if the amount of frost on the evaporator is greater than or equal to the preset frost amount, it indicates that the frost layer has severely affected the refrigeration efficiency. Therefore, the controller needs to simultaneously activate the evaporator's counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components to enhance defrosting efficiency and cope with severe frost conditions under high-temperature environments.

[0123] S505. When the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, control the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, control the defrosting components to stop performing the defrosting operation.

[0124] In one embodiment, the control method of step S505 is similar to that of step S503, and will not be described further.

[0125] It should be noted that controlling the evaporator to immediately exit the counter-current defrosting mode when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage can avoid unnecessary energy consumption. Subsequently, the defrosting components continue to run until the defrosting end conditions are met, which ensures the thorough defrosting of the frost layer.

[0126] S506. When the amount of frost on the refrigeration equipment is less than the preset amount of frost, execute the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium temperature condition.

[0127] It should be noted that if the amount of frost is less than the preset amount, it indicates that the frost accumulation is relatively light. In this case, it is not necessary to simultaneously control the counter-current defrosting mode and the start / stop of the defrosting components; instead, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium-temperature operating condition can be executed directly. This maximizes energy reduction under high-temperature conditions while ensuring thorough defrosting.

[0128] In this embodiment, the controller can first detect the current ambient temperature and classify the refrigeration equipment into medium-temperature and high-temperature operating conditions, providing a precise scenario adaptation basis for defrosting control and making the control logic more consistent with actual frosting patterns. Under medium-temperature conditions, the controller can first control the evaporator to enter counter-current defrosting mode, utilizing the heat released by counter-current defrosting to preferentially melt the frost on the evaporator surface. At this time, the defrosting component does not start, effectively reducing unnecessary energy consumption. When the evaporator enters the sensible heat defrosting stage (the frost layer begins to melt in large quantities and fall into the water collection tank), the defrosting component is then activated to specifically melt the frost in the water collection tank, avoiding ineffective heating by the defrosting component before the frost layer falls off. After the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the controller controls the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and continues to run the defrosting component until the defrosting termination conditions are met. This ensures both the complete melting of the frost layer on the evaporator surface and the complete dissolution of stubborn frost in the water collection tank, while avoiding prolonged synchronous operation of counter-current defrosting and the defrosting component, further reducing energy consumption. Under high-temperature conditions, the controller can simultaneously activate the counter-current defrosting mode and defrosting components when the frost level is greater than or equal to the preset frost level. This addresses more severe frost formation under high-temperature environments and accelerates defrosting. Furthermore, once the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the controller exits the counter-current defrosting mode and continues operating the defrosting components until the defrosting termination conditions are met, balancing defrosting efficiency and thoroughness. When the frost level is less than the preset frost level, the controller executes the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium-temperature conditions, avoiding unnecessary simultaneous activation and further optimizing energy consumption while ensuring defrosting effectiveness. Based on the above explanation, through the dual adaptation of operating condition division and frost level judgment, precise control of the defrosting process is achieved, improving both the thoroughness and efficiency of defrosting while effectively reducing energy consumption.

[0129] In another embodiment, the operating condition type also includes a low-temperature operating condition, in which case the controller can further determine the operating condition based on, for example... Figure 8 The defrosting process is performed using steps S801-S802 as shown. Details are as follows:

[0130] S801. When operating at low temperatures, the evaporator is synchronously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components perform defrosting operations.

[0131] S802. When the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components are controlled to stop performing defrosting operations.

[0132] In one embodiment, the simultaneous control of the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component to perform the defrosting operation have been explained in S504 above and will not be described again.

[0133] It should be noted that when the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end conditions, the evaporator is also simultaneously controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components are controlled to stop performing defrosting operations.

[0134] Understandably, when the controller detects that the refrigeration equipment has entered a low-temperature operating condition, due to the extremely limited external auxiliary heat in such an environment, the heat released by the evaporator's counter-current defrosting process alone is insufficient to quickly and completely melt the frost layer on the evaporator surface and in the drip tray. In fact, incomplete melting or refreezing of the frost may occur. Therefore, the controller can directly and synchronously control the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components to perform the defrosting operation. This allows the heat released by the refrigerant during counter-current defrosting to combine with the active heating of the defrosting components, creating a cumulative heat effect. This continuously melts the frost layer on the evaporator surface and the frost that has fallen into the drip tray until the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting termination conditions. Then, the controller synchronously controls the evaporator to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting components to stop performing the defrosting operation, completing the entire defrosting process under low-temperature conditions.

[0135] In one embodiment, reference is made to Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram comparing the temperature changes in a counter-current defrosting mode of an evaporator under medium-temperature and low-temperature operating conditions, according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, the horizontal axis represents the defrosting time process, and the vertical axis represents the evaporator temperature (°C). The dashed line represents the medium-temperature operating condition curve, and the solid line represents the low-temperature operating condition curve. Under the medium-temperature operating condition, the evaporator temperature rises rapidly from -20°C, completes the latent heat stage (heating to 0°C) in a short time, and enters the sensible heat stage, eventually rising to about 20°C, which shows that the counter-current defrosting has sufficient heat and high defrosting efficiency.

[0136] However, under low-temperature conditions, the evaporator temperature rises slowly, and the latent heat defrosting stage and sensible heat defrosting stage take significantly longer. The final peak temperature is only about 15°C, which directly reflects that the heat output of countercurrent defrosting is significantly insufficient under low-temperature conditions. This will lead to problems such as longer defrosting cycles, increased downtime of the entire refrigeration system, increased energy consumption, and excessive temperature rise in the storage chamber.

[0137] Based on this characteristic, in steps S801-S802, a control strategy is adopted to simultaneously start and stop counter-current defrosting and electric heating for low-temperature conditions. The radiant heat from the defrosting components compensates for the thermal limitations of the counter-current defrosting mode. This allows for rapid temperature increases in the evaporator and water tank through heat accumulation, shortening the time required for latent heat and sensible heat stages. Consequently, this not only solves the problems of slow and incomplete defrosting at low temperatures but also avoids energy waste and internal temperature rise caused by excessively long defrosting cycles, ensuring the operational stability and cooling effect of the refrigeration equipment in low-temperature environments.

[0138] In this embodiment, a control strategy that employs counter-current defrosting and synchronous start / stop of the defrosting components under low-temperature conditions can precisely compensate for the insufficient heat output of counter-current defrosting in low-temperature environments. By superimposing the heat from the two defrosting methods, defrosting efficiency is improved, avoiding problems such as excessively long defrosting time, incomplete frost melting, or secondary freezing caused by relying solely on counter-current defrosting. Simultaneously, the synchronous start / stop control logic is relatively simple, eliminating the need for complex stage judgments and timing coupling programs, thus reducing the computational load on the controller. Furthermore, the above control method can effectively prevent excessive frost buildup and blockage of the evaporator ducts under low-temperature conditions, ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigeration system, improving the operational stability and reliability of the refrigeration equipment in low-temperature environments, and ensuring that the equipment maintains good cooling performance even in low ambient temperature scenarios.

[0139] In another embodiment, the controller can also be based on, for example... Figure 10 The steps S1001-S1003 shown indicate whether the evaporator has entered and completed the sensible heat defrosting stage. Details are as follows:

[0140] S1001. Obtain the inlet temperature of the refrigeration cycle in the evaporator.

[0141] In one embodiment, the above-described refrigeration cycle is the workflow for heat transfer in a refrigeration device. The refrigerant circulates in a closed loop consisting of a compressor, condenser, throttling element, and evaporator. Through phase change processes such as compression (high temperature and high pressure gaseous state), condensation (exothermic liquefaction), throttling (low temperature and low pressure liquid state), and evaporation (endothermic vaporization), the heat inside the refrigeration device is transferred to the external environment, thereby achieving refrigeration and cooling.

[0142] In counter-current defrosting mode, the refrigeration cycle flow is reversed, and the original evaporator outlet becomes the inlet. High-temperature and high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the evaporator from the inlet, releasing heat to the evaporator surface and frost layer, thereby melting the ice and frost.

[0143] Based on this, the inlet temperature at the aforementioned refrigeration cycle is the port temperature at which the high-temperature refrigerant enters the evaporator pipe under counter-current defrosting mode. That is, the inlet temperature is the source temperature at which the refrigerant releases heat to the evaporator and frost layer, which can directly determine the heating rate and final temperature level of the evaporator body, fins, and surface frost layer, reflecting the heat supply capacity of the counter-current defrosting mode.

[0144] In one embodiment, the controller can calculate the evaporator inlet temperature using operating parameters such as compressor discharge temperature, condenser outlet temperature, and system pressure, combined with a refrigeration cycle thermodynamic model. This eliminates the need for a sensor at the refrigeration cycle inlet, reducing system costs.

[0145] It's important to note that the sensible heat defrosting stage is characterized by the frost layer transitioning from merely heating up without melting (latent heat defrosting stage) to a significant solid-liquid phase change and frost shedding. This transition occurs only when the evaporator surface temperature reaches the critical temperature for frost melting (approximately 0°C). However, the refrigeration cycle inlet temperature is the source of heat for counter-current defrosting. Heat is only gradually transferred to the evaporator surface and frost layer after the refrigerant enters through the refrigeration cycle inlet. Therefore, changes in the inlet temperature precede those in the evaporator surface or chamber temperature, reflecting the frost's heating process earlier and more accurately. Furthermore, the inlet temperature is unaffected by external factors such as frost thickness, chamber airflow, or door opening. Compared to detecting the evaporator surface or chamber temperature, this judgment logic is more stable and reliable, accurately adapting to the differences in counter-current defrosting heat under different operating conditions such as medium and low temperatures, avoiding misjudgments that lead to incomplete defrosting or wasted energy.

[0146] S1002. If the inlet temperature is equal to the first preset temperature, then the evaporator is determined to enter the sensible heat defrosting stage.

[0147] S1003. If the inlet temperature is equal to the second preset temperature, then the evaporator is confirmed to have completed the sensible defrosting stage.

[0148] The second preset temperature is greater than the first preset temperature.

[0149] In one embodiment, the aforementioned first preset temperature can be an experimentally calibrated critical temperature (typically around 0°C) at which the frost layer at the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet begins to undergo a solid-liquid phase change. When the inlet temperature reaches the first preset temperature, it indicates that the heat from the counter-current defrosting has preheated the frost layer on the evaporator surface from a low temperature to a freezing point. At this point, the frost layer will begin to melt in large quantities and fall into the water collection tank. Therefore, it can be used as a threshold for accurately triggering the defrosting component to start and determining whether the sensible heat defrosting stage has begun.

[0150] The aforementioned second preset temperature is an experimental calibration threshold (typically around 3°C) higher than the first preset temperature. When the inlet temperature reaches this second preset temperature, it indicates that the frost layer on the evaporator surface has essentially completed the solid-liquid phase transition, all stubborn frost has fallen off, and the defrosting task of the sensible heat defrosting stage has been completed. Therefore, at the second preset temperature, the evaporator can be controlled to exit the countercurrent defrosting mode and terminate the output of ineffective heat.

[0151] In this embodiment, after the evaporator enters the counter-current defrosting mode, by detecting the inlet temperature at the refrigeration cycle and using a second preset temperature higher than the first preset temperature as the determination node, it can be accurately determined that the refrigeration unit has entered the sensible heat Hausa stage, where the frost layer begins its solid-liquid phase change, when the inlet temperature rises to the first preset temperature. This precisely triggers the defrosting components to start and matches the timing of frost layer falling, avoiding energy waste caused by ineffective preheating of the defrosting components during the latent heat defrosting stage. Furthermore, when the inlet temperature rises to the second preset temperature, it can be promptly determined that the evaporator has completed the sensible heat defrosting stage and the frost layer on the evaporator surface has basically melted. Based on this, the evaporator can be controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, eliminating ineffective energy consumption and temperature rise inside the unit caused by continuous heating during counter-current defrosting, achieving precise identification and control of the defrosting process. Therefore, while ensuring thorough defrosting, energy consumption is significantly reduced, improving the operational stability and energy-saving effect of the refrigeration equipment under different operating conditions.

[0152] In another embodiment, the controller can also be based on, for example... Figure 11 The steps S1101-S1102 shown determine whether the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting completion conditions. Details are as follows:

[0153] S1101. Obtain the temperature of the chamber in the evaporator.

[0154] S1102. If the chamber temperature is equal to the third preset temperature, then the refrigeration equipment is determined to meet the defrosting end condition.

[0155] The third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

[0156] In one embodiment, the aforementioned chamber temperature refers to the real-time air temperature inside the chamber where the evaporator is located (e.g., the evaporator chamber) in the refrigeration equipment. The chamber temperature can indirectly reflect the defrosting progress of the evaporator body and directly reflect the thermal state of the frost in the water collection tank area after melting. It serves as an ambient temperature signal for determining whether the frost in the water collection tank has been completely discharged and whether there is any residual frost in the chamber.

[0157] Furthermore, the aforementioned third preset temperature is a temperature threshold calibrated through experiments. Its value is higher than the second preset temperature for determining the completion of the sensible heat stage (usually around 10°C). It is a characteristic temperature point where the frost in the water tank is completely melted, there is no frost residue around the evaporator, and the defrosting process is completely completed.

[0158] It should be noted that the real-time air temperature in the evaporator chamber is continuously monitored during the defrosting process. When the chamber temperature stabilizes and reaches the third preset temperature, the refrigeration equipment is deemed to have met the defrosting termination conditions. At this point, the counter-current defrosting mode can be exited (if the counter-current defrosting mode has not been exited) and the defrosting operation of the defrosting components can be stopped. This ensures that the entire defrosting process (evaporator surface defrosting + water tank defrosting) is completely completed, avoiding incomplete or excessive defrosting.

[0159] In this embodiment, a third preset temperature, higher than the second preset temperature, is used as the defrosting termination condition. When the evaporator chamber temperature equals the third preset temperature, the refrigeration equipment is determined to have met the defrosting termination condition. This not only visually reflects that the frost in the water tank has completely melted and there is no residual frost around the evaporator, ensuring thorough defrosting, but also allows for timely termination of heating operations after defrosting, avoiding excessive energy waste caused by excessive chamber temperature rise and excessive temperature increase inside the unit, thus improving the stability and energy efficiency of the refrigeration equipment.

[0160] In another embodiment, the refrigeration device may further include a first defrost sensor that can detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator. In this case, the controller can obtain the chamber temperature from the first defrost sensor and calculate the difference between the chamber temperature and a preset temperature difference to obtain the inlet temperature. The preset temperature difference describes the temperature difference between the temperature detected by the first defrost sensor and the temperature at the refrigeration cycle point.

[0161] In one embodiment, the first defrost sensor is a temperature sensing element (e.g., an NTC thermistor) used to acquire the air temperature (chamber temperature) of the chamber where the evaporator is located. As an example, the first defrost sensor can be installed within the chamber.

[0162] In one embodiment, the aforementioned preset temperature difference can be a fixed difference between the chamber temperature detected by the first defrost sensor and the actual temperature at the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet, calibrated experimentally. In counter-current defrost mode, the high-temperature refrigerant at the refrigeration cycle inlet dissipates heat into the chamber. The temperature difference between the two exhibits good stability under different operating conditions; therefore, this difference can be fixed as the aforementioned preset temperature difference for temperature conversion.

[0163] Based on this, a first defrost sensor is placed in the evaporator chamber. The inlet temperature can be indirectly obtained by calculating the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet temperature using the formula: evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet temperature = chamber temperature - preset temperature difference. Furthermore, the chamber temperature can be directly compared with a third preset temperature to determine whether the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting termination conditions.

[0164] In this embodiment, the chamber temperature is detected by a first defrost sensor and the inlet temperature is calculated by combining it with a preset temperature difference, eliminating the need for an additional dedicated temperature sensor on the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet pipe. This not only reduces the number of sensors used, lowering the hardware cost and piping installation difficulty, but also ensures the accuracy of the inlet temperature calculation based on the preset temperature difference, without affecting the determination of the sensible heat defrosting stage. Thus, both cost control and defrosting control accuracy are optimized.

[0165] As an example, the first defrost sensor can be located in an area within a preset distance of the evaporator.

[0166] The preset distance can be determined in advance through experimental calibration, representing the maximum permissible interval between the first defrost sensor and the evaporator body. In other words, the sensor must be within an effective sensing range capable of capturing real-time temperature changes in the chamber after evaporator heat dissipation. When the first defrost sensor is within the preset distance, it prevents the sensor from moving out of the evaporator's heat radiation range and failing to respond promptly to temperature changes, ensuring a strong correlation between the detected chamber temperature and the actual operating conditions of the evaporator, thus providing a reliable data basis for subsequent inlet temperature conversion.

[0167] As an example, refer to Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of a refrigeration device provided in one embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the refrigeration equipment is divided into a compressor compartment (containing core refrigeration components such as the compressor, condenser, and throttling element) and a foaming chamber (containing the evaporator and evaporator chamber). The two are connected by refrigerant piping to form a complete refrigeration cycle. In counter-current defrosting mode, the refrigerant flow is reversed, and high-temperature gaseous refrigerant enters from the evaporator inlet, releasing heat to the evaporator and frost layer to melt the ice and frost.

[0168] The area located within the preset distance of the evaporator can be the area inside the evaporator chamber or the area around the evaporator, and there are no restrictions on this.

[0169] For example, the first defrost sensor can be installed on the duct fan motor. This location avoids interference from localized high temperatures in the evaporator piping or localized frost melting, allowing for the detection of a stable and representative chamber air temperature. Specifically, the duct fan's operation forces air circulation within the chamber, resulting in a uniform and stable temperature in the area. This accurately reflects the overall temperature around the evaporator, preventing small-scale temperature fluctuations caused by localized frost melting from affecting detection accuracy when the first defrost sensor is in contact with the evaporator fins or piping. Furthermore, the relatively ample installation space near the fan motor facilitates wiring, mounting, and subsequent maintenance of the first defrost sensor, reducing production and assembly complexity.

[0170] It should be noted that, based on the above system structure, it can be assumed that there is no need to install additional sensors on the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet pipe. Accurate identification of the sensible heat defrosting stage can be achieved at low cost using only a single first defrosting sensor located within a preset distance from the evaporator. This not only reduces hardware costs and installation difficulty but also ensures the accuracy of defrosting control.

[0171] In another embodiment, the aforementioned preset temperature difference is related to the distance between the location of the first defrost sensor and the inlet of the refrigeration cycle. For example, the distance is positively correlated with the preset temperature difference.

[0172] Specifically, as the first defrost sensor moves from its position near the refrigeration cycle inlet pipe towards the interior of the evaporator chamber (such as near the fan motor in the duct), the heat from the high-temperature refrigerant at the inlet needs to be transferred layer by layer through the evaporator fins and the chamber air before reaching the first defrost sensor. At this point, the longer the heat transfer path and the more significant the heat attenuation, the lower the chamber temperature detected by the sensor will be compared to the inlet temperature. Therefore, the preset temperature difference (inlet-chamber) will increase significantly with the increase of the distance between the inlet and chamber.

[0173] In this embodiment, by limiting the location of the first defrost sensor to a region within a preset distance from the evaporator, it is possible not only to ensure that the chamber temperature detected by the sensor stably reflects the evaporator's operating conditions, avoiding interference from localized high temperatures when too close or the inability to detect temperature changes when too far, but also to provide a basis for the stable calibration of the preset temperature difference, thereby improving the accuracy of the conversion from chamber temperature to the refrigeration cycle inlet temperature. Furthermore, this allows for precise determination of the start and end times of the sensible heat defrosting stage, optimizing the start / stop logic of the defrosting components, and reducing ineffective energy consumption.

[0174] In another embodiment, the first defrost sensor can also be configured to detect the inlet temperature at the evaporator's refrigeration cycle point. In this case, the chamber temperature can also be indirectly calculated using the methods described above. For example, the controller can sum the inlet temperature with a preset temperature difference to obtain the chamber temperature.

[0175] In this embodiment, there is no limitation on the method of simultaneously detecting two temperatures using a first defrosting sensor.

[0176] In another embodiment, the refrigeration device may further include two defrost sensors to detect the chamber temperature and the inlet temperature, respectively. Specifically, the first defrost sensor is configured to detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator; the second defrost sensor is configured to detect the inlet temperature at the evaporator refrigeration cycle.

[0177] It should be noted that when using two defrosting sensors to detect the chamber temperature and inlet temperature respectively, it is unnecessary to indirectly calculate the inlet temperature. This improves the accuracy of inlet temperature detection.

[0178] In this embodiment, dual defrost sensors are used to detect the chamber temperature and the evaporator refrigeration cycle inlet temperature respectively, eliminating the step of converting the chamber temperature to the inlet temperature and directly obtaining accurate inlet temperature data. This effectively avoids errors caused by indirect conversion, improves the accuracy of determining the start and end of the sensible heat defrosting stage, and allows for precise control of the start / stop of defrosting components and the timing of reversible defrosting termination.

[0179] In one embodiment, when there are two defrost sensors, the first defrost sensor is located in an area within a preset distance from the evaporator; the second defrost sensor is located at the inlet pipe of the evaporator refrigeration cycle.

[0180] As an example, refer to Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of a refrigeration device provided in another embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the first defrost sensor is located inside the evaporator chamber. In counter-current defrost mode, the refrigerant flow is reversed; high-temperature gaseous refrigerant enters from the evaporator inlet, releasing heat to the evaporator and frost layer to melt the ice. That is, as... Figure 13 As indicated by the arrow, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters from the inlet pipe on the foaming chamber side (the arrow points to the evaporator inlet pipe). As it flows through the evaporator pipe, it releases heat onto the evaporator surface and frost layer, melting the ice and frost. It then flows through the evaporator outlet pipe to the throttling element and finally returns to the compressor compartment, completing the full counter-current defrosting cycle. Therefore, the first defrosting sensor is located at... Figure 13 The inlet pipe of the evaporator refrigeration cycle is shown.

[0181] In this embodiment, through the division of labor among the dual defrost sensors, the first defrost sensor stably detects the chamber temperature within a preset distance of the evaporator, providing a reliable reference for the defrosting termination condition and ensuring thorough defrosting of the water tank; the second defrost sensor is directly installed on the inlet pipe, accurately acquiring the inlet temperature and achieving accurate determination of the sensible heat defrosting stage, avoiding ineffective energy consumption; the two work together and complement each other, improving the accuracy and reliability of defrosting control.

[0182] In another embodiment, the controller can also be based on, for example... Figure 14 The steps S1401-S1403 shown determine whether the amount of frost is greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost. Details are as follows:

[0183] S1401. Count the number of times the refrigeration equipment door is opened within a preset time period.

[0184] S1402. If the number of times the door is opened is greater than or equal to the preset number of times, then the amount of frost is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost.

[0185] S1403. If the number of times the door is opened is less than the preset number, then the amount of frost is determined to be less than the preset amount of frost.

[0186] In one embodiment, the aforementioned preset duration is a fixed time period for statistically analyzing the number of times the refrigeration equipment door is opened. This period can be set in conjunction with the daily usage frequency of the equipment under high-temperature conditions and the evaporator defrosting rate. For example, 24 hours. Performing statistics within the preset duration ensures that the statistical results effectively reflect the correlation between the total amount of humid and hot air entering and the amount of frost formation within that period, avoiding judgment bias due to a statistical time that is too short or too long.

[0187] The number of door openings refers to the total number of times the refrigeration equipment door is opened and closed within a preset time period. Each door opening triggers a direct exchange of air between the inside and outside of the equipment. The preset number of openings can be a threshold value determined experimentally by combining factors such as ambient humidity under high-temperature operating conditions, the amount of humid and hot air entering during a single door opening, and the evaporator frost rate. It is a key reference standard for indirectly determining whether the evaporator frost amount has reached the preset frost amount.

[0188] It's important to note that under high-temperature operating conditions, the ambient temperature and humidity are high, and the internal temperature of the refrigeration equipment is much lower than the outside environment. Therefore, each time the door is opened, a large amount of warm, humid air from outside rushes into the equipment. Upon contact with the low-temperature evaporator surface, the water vapor in this warm, humid air quickly condenses into frost and accumulates. Thus, there is a clear positive correlation between the number of times the door is opened and the amount of frost on the evaporator. That is, the more often the door is opened, the greater the total amount of warm, humid air that rushes in, and the more frost forms on the evaporator surface. Therefore, there is no need to install sensors to directly detect frost thickness or weight; simply counting the number of door openings can indirectly and accurately determine whether the preset frost level has been reached.

[0189] In this embodiment, the number of door openings within a preset time period is counted. If the number of door openings is greater than or equal to the preset number, the frost amount is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset frost amount; conversely, if the number of door openings is less than the preset number, the frost amount is determined to be less than the preset frost amount. Based on this, there is no need to configure additional sensors for direct detection of frost thickness and weight, reducing the hardware cost and assembly / maintenance difficulty of the equipment. Furthermore, the statistical logic is simple and easy to implement, resulting in low computational load on the controller. Consequently, while ensuring thorough defrosting, ineffective defrosting operations are avoided, improving the operating efficiency and stability of the refrigeration equipment.

[0190] It should be understood that the sequence number of each step in the above embodiments does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0191] In another embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, the refrigeration equipment can be used to implement the control method of the refrigeration equipment described in the above method embodiments.

[0192] The refrigeration equipment may include one or more memories storing programs that can be run by a controller to generate instructions, causing the controller to execute the control method of the refrigeration equipment described in the above method embodiments according to the instructions.

[0193] Optionally, the memory may also store data. Optionally, the controller may also read data stored in the memory, which may be stored at the same memory address as the program, or the data may be stored at a different memory address than the program.

[0194] The controller and memory can be set up separately or integrated together; for example, integrated on the system on chip (SOC) of the terminal device.

[0195] This application also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a controller, implements the control method of a refrigeration device according to any method embodiment of this application.

[0196] The computer program product can be stored in memory, for example, as a program. The program is eventually converted into an executable object file that can be executed by the controller after processes such as preprocessing, compilation, assembly, and linking.

[0197] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a computer, implements the control method of the refrigeration device in any of the method embodiments of this application. The computer program may be a high-level language program or an executable object program.

[0198] The computer-readable storage medium is, for example, memory. Memory can be volatile or non-volatile, or it can include both volatile and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which serves as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0199] In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of a single item or a plurality of items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be a single item or multiple items.

[0200] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0201] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the modules and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0202] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and modules described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0203] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for example, the division of modules is merely a logical functional division, and there may be other division methods in actual implementation; for example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or modules may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0204] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. Similarly, the components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment, depending on actual needs.

[0205] In addition, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module.

[0206] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigeration device, characterized in that, Includes an evaporator configured to release heat to melt frost on the surface of the evaporator when entering a counter-current defrosting mode; The water tank is configured to receive the melted frost water from the evaporator. The defrosting component is configured to melt the frost in the water receiving tank when performing a defrosting operation; The controller is configured as follows: The current ambient temperature is detected to determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment; the operating condition type includes medium temperature operating condition and high temperature operating condition. When the operating condition is the medium temperature condition, the evaporator is controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the evaporator enters the preset sensible heat defrosting stage, the defrosting component is controlled to perform the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting end condition, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation. When the operating condition is the high-temperature condition, when the frost amount of the refrigeration equipment is greater than or equal to the preset frost amount, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component performs the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end condition, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation; and when the frost amount of the refrigeration equipment is less than the preset frost amount, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium-temperature condition are executed.

2. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating condition type also includes a low-temperature operating condition; the controller is further configured to: When the low-temperature operating condition is as described, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component performs the defrosting operation. When the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end condition, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation.

3. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the controller controls the evaporator to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, it is also configured to: Obtain the inlet temperature of the refrigeration cycle in the evaporator; If the inlet temperature is equal to the first preset temperature, then the evaporator is determined to have entered the sensible heat defrosting stage; If the inlet temperature is equal to the second preset temperature, then the evaporator is determined to have completed the sensible defrosting stage; The second preset temperature is greater than the first preset temperature.

4. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: Obtain the chamber temperature in the evaporator; If the chamber temperature is equal to the third preset temperature, then the refrigeration equipment is determined to meet the defrosting end condition; the third preset temperature is greater than the second preset temperature.

5. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a first defrost sensor configured to detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator; the controller is further configured to: The chamber temperature is obtained from the first defrosting sensor; The difference between the chamber temperature and the preset temperature difference is calculated to obtain the inlet temperature; the preset temperature difference is used to describe the temperature difference between the temperature detected by the first defrost sensor and the temperature at the refrigeration cycle.

6. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first defrosting sensor is located in an area within a preset distance from the evaporator.

7. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a first defrost sensor, configured to detect the chamber temperature in the evaporator; The second defrost sensor is configured to detect the inlet temperature at the evaporator refrigeration cycle.

8. The refrigeration equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first defrost sensor is located in an area within a preset distance from the evaporator; the second defrost sensor is located at the inlet pipe of the evaporator's refrigeration cycle.

9. The refrigeration equipment according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, After detecting the current ambient temperature and determining the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment, the controller is further configured as follows: Count the number of times the refrigeration equipment door is opened within a preset time period; If the number of times the door is opened is greater than or equal to the preset number of times, then the amount of frost is determined to be greater than or equal to the preset amount of frost. If the number of times the door is opened is less than the preset number, then the amount of frost is determined to be less than the preset amount of frost.

10. A control method for a refrigeration device, characterized in that, Applied to refrigeration equipment, the method includes: The current ambient temperature is detected to determine the operating condition type of the refrigeration equipment; the operating condition type includes medium temperature operating condition and high temperature operating condition. When the operating condition is the medium-temperature condition, the evaporator is controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the evaporator enters the preset sensible heat defrosting stage, the defrosting component is controlled to perform the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the preset defrosting end condition, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation; when the evaporator enters the counter-current defrosting mode, it is used to release heat to melt the frost on the surface of the evaporator; when the defrosting component performs the defrosting operation, it is used to melt the frost in the water collection tank; the water collection tank is used to collect the defrosted water from the evaporator. When the operating condition is the high-temperature condition, when the frost amount of the refrigeration equipment is greater than or equal to the preset frost amount, the evaporator is simultaneously controlled to enter the counter-current defrosting mode and the defrosting component performs the defrosting operation; when the evaporator completes the sensible heat defrosting stage, the evaporator is controlled to exit the counter-current defrosting mode, and when the refrigeration equipment meets the defrosting end condition, the defrosting component is controlled to stop performing the defrosting operation; and when the frost amount of the refrigeration equipment is less than the preset frost amount, the defrosting control steps corresponding to the medium-temperature condition are executed.

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