Refrigerator and method for controlling the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling the same. A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include: a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor configured to compress the refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door configured to open and close the first storage chamber; a second door configured to open and close the second storage chamber; an evaporator provided on one side of the storage chamber and generating cold air using a refrigerant; a first blower fan disposed in the first storage chamber and configured to introduce cold air into the storage chamber; a second blower fan disposed in the second storage chamber and configured to introduce cold air into the storage chamber; and a controller configured to control operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

Description

Refrigerator and methods for controlling refrigerator Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling the refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] A refrigerator is a household appliance that uses cold air generated by circulating refrigerant through a refrigeration cycle to store food for extended periods. A refrigerator includes one or more storage compartments for storing items in a refrigerated or frozen state. Each storage compartment can be accessed by opening or closing a swing door or by pulling out a drawer. The storage compartments may include a freezer compartment for storing items in a frozen state and a refrigerator compartment for storing items in a refrigerated state.

[0003] During refrigerator operation, when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises to a predetermined level or higher, cold air generated by the evaporator can be supplied to the storage compartment via a blower fan, thereby cooling the interior of the storage compartment. Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0097860 discloses a method for operating a refrigerator with a single blower fan.

[0004] A refrigerator may include doors for opening and closing the storage compartment. A double-door refrigerator may include two doors, each hinged to one side of the cabinet, allowing the left and right storage compartments to be opened and closed. According to related technology, when one door of the double-door refrigerator is opened and the temperature inside the storage compartment rises, a compressor and a blower fan are activated to cool the interior of the storage compartment. According to this control method, by operating the blower fan, hot air from the storage space corresponding to the open door (e.g., the left door) is introduced into the storage space corresponding to the closed door (e.g., the right door). Therefore, the time and power required to cool the entire storage compartment are increased. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure aims to provide a refrigerator for supplying cold air to the storage compartment via multiple blower fans.

[0006] This disclosure also aims to provide a refrigerator capable of supplying cold air generated by the evaporator to the storage compartment evenly and quickly.

[0007] This disclosure also aims to provide a refrigerator capable of minimizing the loss of cold air generated by the evaporator during the process of supplying cold air to the storage compartment.

[0008] This disclosure also aims to provide a refrigerator that improves cooling efficiency by increasing the speed of cold air circulation between the storage compartment and the evaporator.

[0009] This disclosure also aims to provide a refrigerator and a method for controlling the refrigerator, which, compared with related technologies, can reduce the temperature inside the storage compartment more quickly when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises due to the door being opened, while consuming less power.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the objectives described above, and other objectives and advantages of this disclosure not described can be more clearly understood through various embodiments thereof. Furthermore, the objectives and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the components set forth in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator is provided, the refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; and a controller configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

[0012] The controller is configured to: drive the compressor and drive the first blower fan at a predetermined first speed when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and the first door is detected to be open; drive the second blower fan at a second speed when a first deceleration condition is determined to be met, while simultaneously decelerating the speed of the first blower fan to a predetermined second speed; and terminate the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

[0013] The controller can be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the first blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0014] The controller can be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is met when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0015] The controller can be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is met when the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

[0016] The controller can be configured to drive the second blower fan at the first speed if the second door is detected to be open after the first door is detected to be open.

[0017] The controller can be configured to reduce the speed of at least one of the first blower fan and the second blower fan to the second speed when a predetermined second deceleration condition is determined to be met.

[0018] The controller can be configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the first blower or the operating time of the second blower exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0019] The controller can be configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is met when the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0020] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling a refrigerator is provided, the refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment, the storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; and a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to... The method includes: introducing the cold air into the storage chamber; and a controller configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, the method comprising: driving the compressor when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and the first door is detected to be open; driving the first blower fan at a predetermined first speed; driving the second blower fan at a predetermined second speed when a predetermined first deceleration condition is determined to be met, while simultaneously decelerating the speed of the first blower fan to the second speed; and terminating the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

[0021] When the operating time of the first blower fan exceeds the predetermined first reference time, it can be determined that the first deceleration condition is met.

[0022] When the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value, it can be determined that the first deceleration condition is met.

[0023] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value, it can be determined that the first deceleration condition is met.

[0024] The method may further include: after detecting that the first door is open, if the second door is detected to be open, then driving the second blower fan at the first speed.

[0025] The method may further include reducing the speed of the second blower fan to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is met.

[0026] When the operating time of the first blower or the operating time of the second blower exceeds a predetermined first reference time, it can be determined that the second deceleration condition is met.

[0027] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value, it can be determined that the second deceleration condition is met.

[0028] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator is provided, the refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; and a controller configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

[0029] The controller can be configured to: drive the compressor at a first speed when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference value; drive the blower fan corresponding to the storage chamber with the higher temperature in the first and second storage chambers at a first speed; and drive the blower fan corresponding to the storage chamber with the lower temperature in the first and second storage chambers at a second speed when a predetermined deceleration condition is determined to be met; and terminate the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0030] The controller can be configured to determine that the deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the blower driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0031] When the temperature of the storage chamber with the higher temperature is lower than the temperature of the storage chamber with the lower temperature, it can be determined that the deceleration condition is met.

[0032] The controller can be configured to drive the compressor and drive the first blower and the second blower at the same speed when the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same, and to terminate the operation of the compressor, the first blower and the second blower when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than the second reference temperature value.

[0033] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling a refrigerator is provided, the refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment; and a control... The controller is configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, the method comprising: driving the compressor when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value; driving the blower fan corresponding to the storage chamber with the higher temperature among the first and second storage chambers at a first speed; driving the blower fan corresponding to the storage chamber with the lower temperature among the first and second storage chambers at a second speed; decelerating the speed of the blower fan driven at the first speed to the second speed when a predetermined deceleration condition is determined to be met; and terminating the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0034] When the operating time of the blower fan driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time, it can be determined that the deceleration condition is met.

[0035] When the temperature of the storage chamber with the higher temperature is lower than the temperature of the storage chamber with the lower temperature, it can be determined that the deceleration condition is met.

[0036] The method may further include: driving the compressor when the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same; driving the first blower and the second blower at the same speed respectively; and terminating the operation of the compressor, the first blower and the second blower when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0037] According to various implementation methods, the cold air generated by the evaporator can be supplied to the storage chamber evenly and quickly.

[0038] According to various implementation methods, the loss of cold air generated by the evaporator can be minimized during the process of supplying cold air to the storage chamber.

[0039] According to various implementation methods, the cooling efficiency of a refrigerator can be improved by increasing the speed of cold air circulation between the storage compartment and the evaporator.

[0040] According to various implementation methods, when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises due to the refrigerator door being opened, the temperature inside the storage compartment can be reduced faster than in related technologies, while consuming less power. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 3 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0045] Figure 5 is a front view of a grille fan included in a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0046] Figure 6 is a front view of a shroud included in a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0047] Figure 7 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 8 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to another embodiment.

[0049] Figure 9 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to yet another embodiment.

[0050] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0051] Figures 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0052] Figures 13 to 15 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to another embodiment. Figure 16 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross-section of a grille fan assembly having a single blower fan.

[0053] Figure 17 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross section of a grille fan assembly with two blowers.

[0054] Figure 18 shows the cold air velocity measured at each side cross-section of a grille fan assembly with a single blower fan.

[0055] Figure 19 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross section of a grille fan assembly with two blower fans. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, thus enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement the technical spirit of this disclosure. In describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to this disclosure will be omitted where it is determined that such descriptions might unnecessarily obscure the essential points of this disclosure. Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components.

[0057] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0058] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a cabinet 10.

[0059] A first storage compartment 11 and a second storage compartment 12 may be formed within the cabinet 10. In one embodiment, the first storage compartment 11 may be a refrigerator compartment for storing items in a refrigerated state, and the second storage compartments 12a and 12b may be freezers for storing items in a frozen state. Furthermore, the second storage compartment 13 may be a switchable compartment, which can be changed to a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment according to user settings. This is merely an example, and the location and number of storage compartments formed within the cabinet 10 may vary depending on the embodiment. Each storage compartment may be separated by a partition wall 14 within the cabinet 10.

[0060] A first storage compartment door 20 for opening and closing the first storage compartment 11 can be connected to the cabinet 10. The first storage compartment door 20 may include a first door 20a and a second door 20b. Furthermore, a second storage compartment door 22 for opening and closing the second storage compartment 12 can be connected to the cabinet 10. The second storage compartment door 22 may include a first door 22a and a second door 22b. In one embodiment, either the first storage compartment door 20 or the second storage compartment door 22 may be hinged to the cabinet 10 and may rotate about the hinge.

[0061] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the second storage chamber 12 can be divided into three storage spaces 13a, 13b, and 13c. However, this structure is merely an example, and the internal space of the second storage chamber 12 can be divided differently. For example, in another embodiment, the second storage chamber may include one storage space or two storage spaces.

[0062] The interior space of the first storage room 11 can be divided into a first storage room that is opened and closed by a first door 20a and a second storage room that is opened and closed by a second door 20b. Similarly, the interior spaces of the second storage rooms 12 and 13 can be divided into a first storage room that is opened and closed by a first door 20a and a second storage room that is opened and closed by a second door 20b.

[0063] The evaporator 32 can be located at the rear of the cabinet 10. The evaporator 32 can evaporate the refrigerant supplied from the compressor and condenser. When the refrigerant is evaporated by the evaporator 32, the air around the evaporator 32 can be cooled to produce cold air.

[0064] A grille fan assembly 17 can be disposed on the front surface of the evaporator 32. The grille fan assembly 17 can draw in the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 and discharge the drawn-in cold air into the storage chambers 11 and 12. In addition, the grille fan assembly 17 can draw in air from the storage chambers 11 and 12 and supply the drawn-in air to the evaporator 32.

[0065] Machine compartment 15 may be located below evaporator 32. A compressor (not shown) and a condenser (not shown) for supplying refrigerant to evaporator 32 may be located within machine compartment 15. The compressor draws in and compresses the refrigerant evaporated by evaporator 32, and discharges the compressed refrigerant. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor can be supplied to the condenser through a flow path connected between the compressor and the condenser. The condenser can condense the refrigerant supplied from the compressor. The refrigerant condensed by the condenser can be expanded by an expansion mechanism located between the condenser and evaporator 32, and then supplied to evaporator 32.

[0066] Although not shown, a machine room fan for supplying air from outside the refrigerator to the compressor and / or condenser may be installed in machine room 15.

[0067] In the following description, the structure and function of a grille fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a front view of a grille fan included in a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a front view of a shroud included in a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the grille fan assembly 17 may include a grille fan 100, a shroud 200, a first blower fan 410a, and a second blower fan 410b. According to one embodiment, the grille fan assembly 17 may also include an ice-making fan 420.

[0070] The grille fan 100 forms the front surface of the grille fan assembly 17.

[0071] The grille fan 100 may include a cold air receiving portion 150 formed to project forward. The cold air receiving portion 150 may include a first blower fan receiving portion 110a and a second blower fan receiving portion 110b, respectively accommodating a first blower fan 410a and a second blower fan 410b. The first blower fan receiving portion 110a and the second blower fan receiving portion 110b may be formed to project forward from the cold air receiving portion 150. When the grille fan 100, the shroud 200, the first blower fan 410a, and the second blower fan 410b can be connected, at least a portion of the first blower fan 410a and at least a portion of the second blower fan 410b may be accommodated in the first blower fan receiving portion 110a and the second blower fan receiving portion 110b.

[0072] The grille fan 100 may further include a first extension 160a and a second extension 160b, both of which are connected to the air receiving portion 150. One end of the first extension 160a and one end of the second extension 160b may be formed to bend forward at a predetermined angle. A first lower outlet 131a and a second lower outlet 131b may be formed on the bent ends of the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b, respectively. Each of the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b may have a forward-opening shape.

[0073] The downward protruding first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b can be respectively located below the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b.

[0074] The first extension 160a and the second extension 160b can be disposed at positions corresponding to the first extended flow path 260a and the second extended flow path 260b formed in the shroud 200, respectively. Therefore, when the grille fan 100 and the shroud 200 are connected, the first extended flow path 260a and the second extended flow path 260b can be sealed by the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b, as well as the first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b, respectively, thereby forming a flow path through which cold air flows.

[0075] The grille fan 100 may include one or more outlets for discharging cool air. In one embodiment, the grille fan 100 may include first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a and 131a and second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b and 131b.

[0076] The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a can output air introduced into the grille fan assembly 17 through the first inlet 210a and the first blower fan 410a to the second storage chamber 12. The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a may include a first upper outlet 111a communicating with the upper storage chamber 13, first intermediate outlets 121a and 122a communicating with the intermediate storage chamber 12a, and a first lower outlet 131a communicating with the lower storage chamber 12b.

[0077] The second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b can output air introduced into the grille fan assembly 17 through the second inlet 210b and the second blower fan 410b to the second storage chamber 12. The second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may include a second upper outlet 111b communicating with the upper storage chamber 13, second intermediate outlets 121b and 122b communicating with the intermediate storage chamber 12a, and a second lower outlet 131b communicating with the lower storage chamber 12b.

[0078] In a front view of the grille fan 100, the first row of outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a, and the second row of outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b, can be respectively positioned on both sides of the center of the grille fan 100. For example, the first row of outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a can be positioned on the left side of the center of the grille fan 100, and the second row of outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b can be positioned on the right side of the center of the grille fan 100. The first row of outlets 111a, 121a, 122a and 131a and the second row of outlets 111b, 121b, 122b and 131b can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the grille fan 100, but the first row of outlets 111a, 121a, 122a and 131a and the second row of outlets 111b, 121b, 122b and 131b need not be arranged in a position that is completely symmetrical with respect to the center of the grille fan 100.

[0079] The first row outlets 111a, 121a, 122a and 131a can be located at positions corresponding to the first blower fan housing 110a, the first blower fan 410a and the first inlet 210a, and the second row outlets 111b, 121b, 122b and 131b can be located at positions corresponding to the second blower fan housing 110b, the second blower fan 410b and the second inlet 210b.

[0080] Using this structure, when the storage compartment is divided into two spaces (e.g., a left space and a right space) relative to the center of the grille fan 100, cold air can be discharged to each space through the first row of outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second row of outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b, respectively. Therefore, a separate cold air flow path is formed in each space, thereby achieving independent cooling for each space.

[0081] The grille fan 100 may further include a suction guide 140. The suction guide 140 may be connected to the grille fan plate 151 in a direction facing the front side of the grille fan plate 151. The suction guide 140 may be connected to the grille fan plate 151 so as to bend at a predetermined angle relative to the grille fan plate 151. The suction guide 140 may be connected to the grille fan plate 151 at the same angle as the bent end of the first extension 160a and the bent end of the second extension 160b.

[0082] A suction space 141 can be formed on the lower surface of the suction guide 140. As described above, since the suction guide 140 is connected to the grille fan plate 151 in the direction facing the front of the grille fan 100, the front surface of the suction space 141 is open and unobstructed. Therefore, a wide suction space 141 opening in the direction from the front of the grille fan 100 toward its lower surface can be formed by the suction guide 140. With this structure, a large amount of cold air can be drawn not only through the lower surface of the suction space 141, but also through the front surface of the suction space 141. Therefore, the flow and circulation speed of cold air in the storage chamber can be increased.

[0083] The cold air flowing in the second storage chambers 13, 12a, and 12b can be guided by the suction guide 140 and drawn into the suction space 141. The cold air drawn into the suction space 141 can move toward the evaporator 32. Since the suction guide 140 protrudes in a direction facing the front of the grille fan 100, the cold air drawn through the suction space 141 can be drawn into the suction space 141 without mixing with the cold air discharged through the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b.

[0084] Furthermore, the first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b can be disposed in the suction space 141. The first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b can be disposed at positions corresponding to the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b, respectively. The first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b can prevent the cold air discharged from the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b from moving toward the suction space 141.

[0085] The air drawn into the suction space 141 can move toward the evaporator 32.

[0086] In one embodiment, the first blower fan 410a may be formed at a position corresponding to the first door 22a included in the second storage chamber door 22. Therefore, the first blower fan 410a may be provided at a position corresponding to the first storage chamber of the second storage chamber 12 that is opened and closed by the first door 22a.

[0087] In one embodiment, the second blower fan 410b may be formed at a position corresponding to the second door 22b included in the second storage chamber door 22. Therefore, the second blower fan 410b may be provided at a position corresponding to the second storage chamber 12 that is opened and closed by the second door 22b.

[0088] In one embodiment, the grille fan 100 may include two temperature sensors, namely a first temperature sensor 171 and a second temperature sensor 172.

[0089] The first temperature sensor 171 can be formed at a position corresponding to the first door 22a included in the second storage chamber door 22. Therefore, the first temperature sensor 171 can be set at a position corresponding to the first storage chamber of the second storage chamber 12 that is opened and closed by the first door 22a.

[0090] The second temperature sensor 172 can be formed at a position corresponding to the second door 22b included in the second storage chamber door 22. Therefore, the second temperature sensor 172 can be provided at a position corresponding to the second storage chamber 12 that is opened and closed by the second door 22b.

[0091] In another embodiment, the grille fan 100 may include only one temperature sensor. For example, the grille fan 100 may include only one of the first temperature sensor 171 and the second temperature sensor 172 shown in FIG. 4. As another example, the grille fan 100 may include only one temperature sensor disposed between the first blower fan housing portion 110a and the second blower fan housing portion 110b.

[0092] The shield 200 forms the rear surface of the grille fan assembly 17.

[0093] The shroud 200 may include a first inlet 210a and a second inlet 210b. The first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b may be formed at positions corresponding to the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b, respectively. The cold air generated by the evaporator 32 can be introduced into the grille fan assembly 17 through the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b.

[0094] Multiple fixing screws 211 can be arranged around the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b. The first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can each be fixed to the cover 200 by fixing screws 211.

[0095] Multiple ribs 251, 252, 253, and 254 may be arranged around the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b. In one embodiment, the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 may be arranged around the first inlet 210a, and the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254 may be arranged around the second inlet 210b.

[0096] In one embodiment, the second rib 252 and the third rib 253 may be arranged without contacting each other. Therefore, a region in which no cold air is introduced can be formed between the second rib 252 and the third rib 253.

[0097] When the grille fan 100 and the shroud 200 are connected, the upper surfaces of ribs 251, 252, 253, and 254 can contact the inner surface of the grille fan 100. Therefore, a first cold air flow path can be formed around the first inlet 210a via the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, and a second cold air flow path can be formed around the second inlet 210b via the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. The first cold air flow path can communicate with the first extended flow path 260a, and the second cold air flow path can communicate with the second extended flow path 260b.

[0098] Referring to Figure 6, the first rib 251 may include a first sub-rib 251a, a second sub-rib 251b, and a curved portion 251c.

[0099] One end of the first sub-rib 251a and one end of the second sub-rib 251b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bend 251c. In one embodiment, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may be an acute angle when viewed from the leftmost surface of the cover 200, and an obtuse angle when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252. However, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0100] At least a portion of the first sub-rib 251a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 251b can each be formed into a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. The curvature of the first sub-rib 251a and the curvature of the second sub-rib 251b can vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, at least a portion of the first sub-rib 251a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 251b can have a concave or convex shape.

[0101] The second rib 252 may include a first sub-rib 252a, a second sub-rib 252b, and a curved portion 252c.

[0102] One end of the first sub-rib 252a and one end of the second sub-rib 252b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bend 252c. In one embodiment, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from a first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, and may be an acute angle when viewed from a second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. However, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0103] At least a portion of the first sub-rib 252a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 252b may each be formed into a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. The curvature of the first sub-rib 252a and the curvature of the second sub-rib 252b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, at least a portion of the first sub-rib 252a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 252b may have a concave shape.

[0104] In one embodiment, in a front view of the cover 200, the curved portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the curved portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may be positioned at different heights relative to the center point of the first inlet 210a. For example, the curved portion 251c included in the first rib 251 may be positioned higher than the center point of the first inlet 210a, and the curved portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may be positioned lower than the center point of the first inlet 210a. This is merely an example, and the positions of the curved portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the curved portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0105] The third rib 253 may include a first sub-rib 253a, a second sub-rib 253b, and a curved portion 253c.

[0106] One end of the first sub-rib 253a and one end of the second sub-rib 253b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bend 253c. In one embodiment, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254, and may be an acute angle when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252. However, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0107] At least a portion of the first sub-rib 253a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 253b may each be formed into a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. The curvature of the first sub-rib 253a and the curvature of the second sub-rib 253b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254, at least a portion of the first sub-rib 253a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 253b may have a concave shape.

[0108] The fourth rib 254 may include a first sub-rib 254a, a second sub-rib 254b, and a curved portion 254c.

[0109] One end of the first sub-rib 254a and one end of the second sub-rib 254b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bend 254c. In one embodiment, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254, and may be an acute angle when viewed from the rightmost surface of the shroud 200. However, the connection angle between the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0110] At least a portion of the first sub-rib 254a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 254b may each be formed into a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. The curvature of the first sub-rib 254a and the curvature of the second sub-rib 254b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 254 and the fourth rib 254, at least a portion of the first sub-rib 254a and at least a portion of the second sub-rib 254b may have a concave shape.

[0111] In one embodiment, in a front view of the cover 200, the curved portions 253c included in the third rib 253 and the curved portions 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may be positioned at different heights relative to the center point of the second inlet 210b. For example, the curved portion 253c included in the third rib 253 may be positioned higher than the center point of the second inlet 210b, and the curved portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may be positioned lower than the center point of the second inlet 210b. This is merely an example, and the positions of the curved portions 253c included in the third rib 253 and the curved portions 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0112] The cold air introduced into the grille fan assembly 17 through the first inlet 210a can be introduced into the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a located at the position corresponding to the first inlet 210a, and can flow within the first cold air flow path.

[0113] The cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a is separated by the curved portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the curved portion 252c included in the second rib 252, and flows toward the first sub-ribs 251a and 252a and the second sub-ribs 251b and 252b respectively.

[0114] As described above, when viewed from the first cold air flow path, the first sub-ribs 251a and 251b included in the first rib 251 and the first sub-ribs 252a and 252b included in the second rib 252 have concave shapes. Therefore, the cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a can collide with the surface of each sub-rib 251a, 251b, 252a and 252b or rotate while flowing along the surface of each sub-rib 251a, 251b, 252a and 252b, thereby increasing the flow velocity of the cold air within the first cold air flow path.

[0115] The cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path can be discharged into the storage chamber through the first upper outlet 111a or the first intermediate outlet 121a and 122a located at positions corresponding to the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 while flowing through the first cold air flow path.

[0116] In addition, some of the cold air flowing through the first cold air flow path can be guided by the second sub-ribs 251b and 252b and can move toward the first extended flow path 260a.

[0117] In one embodiment, the width of the first extended flow path 260a may be narrower than the width of the first cold air flow path. Therefore, the velocity of the cold air moving from the first cold air flow path to the first extended flow path 260a can be increased. The cold air moving to the first extended flow path 260a can be discharged into the storage chamber through the first lower outlet 131a.

[0118] The cold air introduced into the grille fan assembly 17 through the second inlet 210b can be introduced into the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254 by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b located at the position corresponding to the second inlet 210b, and can flow within the second cold air flow path.

[0119] The cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b is separated by the curved portion 253c included in the third rib 253 and the curved portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254, and flows toward the first sub-ribs 253a and 254a and the second sub-ribs 253b and 254b, respectively.

[0120] As described above, when viewed from the second cold air flow path, the first sub-ribs 253a and 253b included in the third rib 253 and the first sub-ribs 254a and 254b included in the fourth rib 254 have concave shapes. Therefore, the cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b can collide with the surface of each sub-rib 253a, 253b, 254a and 254b or rotate while flowing along the surface of each sub-rib 253a, 253b, 254a and 254b, thereby increasing the flow velocity of the cold air within the second cold air flow path.

[0121] The cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path can be discharged into the storage chamber through the second upper outlet 111b or the second intermediate outlet 121b and 122b located at positions corresponding to the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254 while flowing through the second cold air flow path.

[0122] In addition, some of the cold air flowing through the second cold air flow path can be guided by the second sub-ribs 253b and 254b and can move toward the second extended flow path 260b.

[0123] In one embodiment, the width of the second extended flow path 260b may be narrower than the width of the second cold air flow path. Therefore, the velocity of the cold air moving from the second cold air flow path to the second extended flow path 260b can be increased. The cold air moving to the second extended flow path 260b can be discharged into the storage chamber through the second lower outlet 131b.

[0124] In one embodiment, the shroud 200 may further include a cold air outlet 280. The cold air outlet 280 may communicate with at least a portion of a first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 and / or at least a portion of a second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. For example, the second rib 252 and the third rib 253 may be configured to contact each other at the cold air outlet 280. Therefore, cold air introduced into the grille fan assembly 1 through the first inlet 210a and / or cold air introduced into the grille fan assembly 1 through the second inlet 210b can be discharged through the cold air outlet 280.

[0125] In one embodiment, the grille fan 100 may further include a damper connection 180. The damper connection 180 may be formed at a position corresponding to the air outlet 280. The damper connection 180 may include an opening. Therefore, when the grille fan 100 and the shroud 200 are connected, cool air can be discharged to the outside through the openings formed in the air outlet 280 and the damper connection 180.

[0126] However, in one embodiment, the evaporator 31 and the grille fan assembly 2 may not be provided on the rear surface of the first storage chamber 11. In this case, the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 provided on the rear surfaces of the second storage chambers 12a, 12b and 13 needs to be supplied to the first storage chamber 11. In order to supply cold air to the first storage chamber 11, a damper (not shown) forming a flow path for supplying cold air to the first storage chamber can be connected to the damper connection 180.

[0127] Conversely, when the evaporator 31 and the grille fan assembly 2 are disposed on the rear surface of the first storage chamber 11, it is not necessary to supply cold air to the first storage chamber 11 through the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection 180. Therefore, in this case, the damper connection 180 may be provided with a shielding cover 281 for blocking the cold air discharged through the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection 180.

[0128] The grille fan assembly 1 with this structure can be applied to refrigerators with a single evaporator and refrigerators with multiple evaporators, thus providing high compatibility and versatility. Therefore, the time and cost required for designing and manufacturing refrigerators can be reduced.

[0129] The positions of the air outlet 280 and the damper connection 180 can vary depending on the implementation method. For example, the air outlet 280 and the damper connection 180 can be configured to communicate only with the first airflow path and not with the second airflow path, or only with the second airflow path and not with the first airflow path.

[0130] Figure 7 shows a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment.

[0131] Figure 7 shows the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the leading edge line A2 of the cold air receiving section 150, the leading edge line F1 and the trailing edge line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the trailing edge line A3 of the shroud 200. Additionally, Figure 7 shows the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2 of the evaporator 32, and the cold air supply area CA formed by the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2.

[0132] Additionally, Figure 7 shows the suction cold airflow drawn from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moved to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), as well as the discharge cold airflow discharged to the storage chamber through the second discharge outlets 111b, 121b and 131b (or the first discharge outlets 111a, 121a and 131a).

[0133] Referring to FIG7, according to one embodiment, the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) of the grille fan assembly 17 can be positioned in front of the leading edge line A2 of the cold air receiving portion 150. That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) can be configured to protrude further forward than the cold air receiving portion 150. With this structure, it can be ensured that the storage compartment formed at the position corresponding to the cold air receiving portion 150 has a larger space.

[0134] In one embodiment, the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) of the grille fan assembly 17 may be parallel to the leading edge line A2 of the air conditioning receiver 150 or the rear edge line A3 of the shroud 200. That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) may be arranged parallel to the air conditioning receiver 150. Therefore, the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) located behind the air conditioning receiver 150 may be arranged parallel to the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the leading edge line A2 of the air conditioning receiver 150, respectively.

[0135] In one embodiment, the rear-sloping surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air receiving portion 150. As shown in FIG7, at least a portion of the rear-sloping surface 270 may be configured to overlap with the cold air supply region CA of the evaporator 32. Some of the cold air drawn in through the suction space 141 and cooled by the evaporator 32 may be discharged through the cold air supply region CA. The cold air discharged through the cold air supply region CA may move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b. In this case, some of the cold air discharged through the cold air supply region CA may collide with the rear-sloping surface 270 and then move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b.

[0136] Figure 8 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to another embodiment.

[0137] Figure 8 shows a longitudinal side sectional view of the grille fan assembly 17 according to another embodiment. Figure 8 shows the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the leading edge line A2 of the cold air receiving portion 150, the leading edge line F1 and the trailing edge line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the trailing edge line A3 of the shroud 200. In addition, Figure 8 shows the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2 of the evaporator 32, and the cold air supply area CA formed by the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2.

[0138] Additionally, Figure 8 shows the suction cold airflow drawn from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moved to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), as well as the discharge cold airflow discharged to the storage chamber through the second discharge outlets 111b, 121b and 131b (or the first discharge outlets 111a, 121a and 131a).

[0139] Referring to FIG8, according to another embodiment, the leading edge line A2 of the cold air receiving portion 150 of the grille fan assembly 17 can be set at a predetermined angle relative to the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). Therefore, the cold air receiving portion 150 or the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) disposed behind the cold air receiving portion 150 can be set at a predetermined angle relative to the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). The cold air receiving portion 150 or the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) can be set to be inclined toward the rear surface of the grille fan assembly 1.

[0140] In one embodiment, the rear-sloping surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air receiving portion 150. As shown in FIG8, at least a portion of the rear-sloping surface 270 may be configured to overlap with the cold air supply region CA of the evaporator 32. Some of the cold air drawn in through the suction space 141 and cooled by the evaporator 32 may be discharged through the cold air supply region CA. The cold air discharged through the cold air supply region CA may move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b. In this case, some of the cold air discharged through the cold air supply region CA may collide with the rear-sloping surface 270 and then move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b.

[0141] According to the embodiment shown in FIG8, the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b is configured to be tilted at a predetermined angle toward the rear surface of the grille fan assembly 1. Therefore, the distance between the rear surface of the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b and the cold air supply area CA can be reduced. Therefore, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA can be introduced into the grille fan assembly 1 at a higher speed through the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b. Therefore, the cold air circulation speed inside the refrigerator and the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator can be improved.

[0142] Figure 9 is a longitudinal side sectional view of a grille fan assembly according to yet another embodiment.

[0143] Figure 9 shows a longitudinal sectional view of the grille fan assembly 17 according to yet another embodiment. Figure 9 shows the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the leading edge line A2 of the cold air receiving portion 150, the leading edge line F1 and the trailing edge line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the trailing edge line A3 of the shroud 200. In addition, Figure 9 shows the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2 of the evaporator 32, and the cold air supply area CA formed by the leading edge line C1 and the trailing edge line C2.

[0144] Additionally, Figure 9 shows the suction cold airflow drawn from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moved to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), as well as the discharge cold airflow discharged to the storage chamber through the second discharge outlets 111b, 121b and 131b (or the first discharge outlets 111a, 121a and 131a).

[0145] Referring to FIG9, in another embodiment, the leading edge line A2 of the air receiving portion 150 of the grille fan assembly 17 can coincide with the leading edge line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) can be disposed on the same plane as the air receiving portion 150. Therefore, the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) disposed behind the air receiving portion 150 can be disposed parallel to the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a).

[0146] In one embodiment, the rearward inclined surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air receiving portion 150. As shown in FIG9, the rearward inclined surface 270 may be configured not to overlap with the cold air supply region CA. Therefore, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply region CA can move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b without colliding with the rearward inclined surface 270.

[0147] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the cold air receiving portion 150 is disposed behind the first extension 160a (or the second extension 160b). Using this structure, the rear inclined surface 270 connects the cold air receiving portion 150 and the first extension 160a (or the second extension 160b). As shown in FIG. 7, since the rear inclined surface 270 is located above the cold air supply region CA, the cold air discharged from the cold air supply region CA can collide with the rear inclined surface 270, thereby reducing the flow rate of the cold air. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, since a portion of the upper surface of the rear inclined surface 270 faces the cold air supply region CA, the cold air discharged from the cold air supply region CA can collide with the rear inclined surface 270, thereby reducing the flow rate of the cold air.

[0148] However, according to the embodiment shown in FIG9, the cold air receiving portion 150 is disposed on the same plane as the first extension 160a or the second extension 160b. Therefore, the upper surface of the cold air supply region CA can be configured not to overlap with the rear inclined surface 270. Therefore, since the cold air discharged from the cold air supply region CA does not collide with the rear inclined surface 270, the flow rate of the cold air is not reduced.

[0149] Therefore, compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA can be introduced into the grille fan assembly 1 at a higher speed via the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b, without resistance from the rear inclined surface 270. This improves the cold air circulation speed within the refrigerator and the refrigerator's cooling efficiency.

[0150] In the following sections, various exemplary embodiments of controlling the temperature of the second storage chamber 12, which is opened and closed by the first door 22a and the second door 22b, will be described. However, the various embodiments described below can also be implemented in the first storage chamber 11.

[0151] In one embodiment described below, the first door 22a may be the left-side door and the second door 22b may be the right-side door. However, in another embodiment, the first door 22a may be the right-side door and the second door 22b may be the left-side door.

[0152] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0153] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a temperature sensor 170, a controller 30, a compressor 16, a first blower fan 410a, and a second blower fan 410b.

[0154] Temperature sensor 170 may be disposed within the second storage chamber 12 to sense the temperature within the second storage chamber 12. In one embodiment, temperature sensor 170 may include a first temperature sensor 171 disposed within the first storage chamber opened and closed by the first door 22a and a second temperature sensor 172 disposed within the second storage chamber opened and closed by the second door 22b. In another embodiment, temperature sensor 170 may be a single temperature sensor disposed within the second storage chamber 12.

[0155] The controller 30 can control the operation of the compressor 16, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b based on the temperature inside the second storage chamber 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170.

[0156] The compressor 16 can be driven under the control of the controller 30. When the compressor 16 is driven, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 16 can be supplied to the evaporator 32 via the condenser (not shown) and the expansion mechanism (not shown). Therefore, when the compressor 16 is driven, cold air can be generated by the evaporator 32.

[0157] Both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be driven by the controller 30. When the first blower fan 410a is driven, cool air can be supplied to the first storage chamber. When the second blower fan 410b is driven, cool air can be supplied to the second storage chamber.

[0158] Figures 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0159] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170 is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value (e.g., 3°C) (502). The first reference temperature value may be set differently depending on the implementation.

[0160] When the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 is lower than the first reference temperature value during operation 502, the controller 30 can re-execute operation 502.

[0161] After determining in operation 502 that the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 is greater than or equal to the first reference temperature value, the first door 22a can be opened (504). Therefore, the controller 30 can detect the opening of the first door 22a.

[0162] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may use a first door sensor (not shown) to detect the opening of the first door 22a. In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the first door 22a is open when the temperature of the first storage chamber sensed by the first temperature sensor 171 is greater than a predetermined opening detection temperature value (e.g., 5°C). The opening detection temperature value is a value greater than a first reference temperature value and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0163] When the opening of the first door 22a is detected, the controller 30 can drive the compressor 16. Therefore, the operation of the compressor 16 can begin (506).

[0164] Furthermore, the controller 30 can drive the first blower fan 410a at a predetermined first speed. Therefore, the first blower fan 410a can be driven (508) at a first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm). Depending on the implementation, the first speed can be set to different values.

[0165] By driving the first blower fan 410a, cold air can be quickly introduced into the first storage chamber. At this time, by driving the first blower fan 410a, some of the cold air in the first storage chamber may be introduced into the second storage chamber, thereby temporarily raising the temperature of the second storage chamber.

[0166] After the compressor 16 and the first blower fan 410a are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the predetermined first deceleration condition (510) is met.

[0167] In one implementation, when the operating time of the first blower fan 410a exceeds a predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds), the controller 30 can determine that a first deceleration condition has been met. The first reference time may be set differently depending on the implementation.

[0168] In another embodiment, when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value (e.g., 1°C), the controller 30 can determine that the first deceleration condition is met. The second reference temperature value is a value less than the first reference temperature value and can be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0169] In another embodiment, the controller 30 can determine that the first deceleration condition is met when the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than a predetermined third reference temperature value (e.g., 0°C). The third reference temperature value is greater than a fourth reference temperature value, which will be described below, and can be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0170] When the first deceleration condition is determined to be met, the controller 30 can decelerate the first blower fan 410a to a predetermined second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Therefore, the first blower fan 410a can be driven at the second speed (512). The second speed is lower than the first speed and can be set differently depending on the implementation.

[0171] Furthermore, when the first deceleration condition is determined to be met, the controller 30 can drive the second blower fan 410b at a second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Therefore, the second blower fan 410b can be driven at the second speed (514).

[0172] The deceleration of the first blower fan 410a reduces the inflow rate of cold air into the first storage chamber. Furthermore, when the second blower fan 410b is activated, cold air can be introduced into the second storage chamber. Therefore, the temperature of the second storage chamber, which is temporarily increased by the operation of the first blower fan 410a, can be reduced.

[0173] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2°C) (516). The fourth reference temperature value is lower than the first reference temperature value, the second reference temperature value, and the third reference temperature value, and can be set differently depending on the implementation method.

[0174] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value during operation 516, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0175] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the fourth reference temperature value during operation 516, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (518). Furthermore, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (520).

[0176] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG11, when the opening of the first door is detected, the operation of the compressor is started (506), and the first blower fan 410a starts operating at a first speed (508), and then, as shown in FIG12, the second door 22b can be opened (530).

[0177] When the opening of the second door 22b is detected, the controller 30 can drive the second blower fan 410b at a first speed. Therefore, the second blower fan 410b can be driven at a first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm) (532).

[0178] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether a predetermined second deceleration condition is met (534). Based on the determination result of operation 534, the controller 30 can decelerate at least one of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b to a second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Therefore, either the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b can be driven at the second speed (536).

[0179] In one embodiment, when the operating time of the first blower fan 410a or the operating time of the second blower fan 410b exceeds a predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds), the controller 30 can determine that a second deceleration condition has been met. When it is determined that the operating time of the first blower fan 410a has exceeded the first reference time, the controller 30 can decelerate the first blower fan 410a to a second speed. When it is determined that the operating time of the second blower fan 410b has exceeded the first reference time, the controller 30 can decelerate the second blower fan 410b to a second speed.

[0180] In another embodiment, when the temperature of the second storage chamber sensed by the second temperature sensor 172 is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value (e.g., 1°C), the controller 30 can determine that the second deceleration condition is met. Therefore, the controller 30 can decelerate the second blower fan 410b to the second speed, or decelerate both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b to the second speed.

[0181] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2°C) (538).

[0182] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value during operation 538, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0183] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the fourth reference temperature value during operation 538, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (540). Furthermore, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (542).

[0184] Figures 13 to 15 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0185] Referring to Figure 13, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170 is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value (e.g., 3°C) (602). The first reference temperature value may be set differently depending on the implementation.

[0186] When the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 is lower than the first reference temperature value during operation 602, the controller 30 can re-execute operation 602.

[0187] When it is determined in operation 602 that the temperature of the second storage chamber 12 is greater than or equal to the first reference temperature value, the controller 30 can determine that the first door or the second door is open. Therefore, the controller 30 can drive the compressor 16 (604).

[0188] After the compressor 16 starts operating, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the first storage chamber sensed by the first temperature sensor 171 is greater than the temperature of the second storage chamber sensed by the second temperature sensor 172 (606).

[0189] When it is determined in operation 606 that the temperature of the first storage chamber is greater than the temperature of the second storage chamber, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a (608) at a predetermined first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm) and the second blower fan 410b (610) at a predetermined second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Therefore, the first storage chamber with a relatively higher temperature can be cooled faster than the second storage chamber with a relatively lower temperature.

[0190] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the predetermined deceleration condition (612) is met.

[0191] In one implementation, when the operating time of the first blower fan 410a exceeds a predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds), the controller 30 can determine that the deceleration condition is met.

[0192] In another embodiment, when the temperature of the first storage chamber is lower than the temperature of the second storage chamber, the controller 30 can determine that the deceleration condition is met.

[0193] When the deceleration condition is determined to be met, the controller 30 can decelerate the first blower fan 410a to the second speed. Therefore, the first blower fan 410a can be driven at the second speed (614).

[0194] Referring to Figure 14, when both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2°C) (630).

[0195] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value during operation 630, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0196] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the fourth reference temperature value during operation 630, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (632). Furthermore, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (634).

[0197] Referring back to Figure 13, when the temperature of the first storage chamber is not greater than the temperature of the second storage chamber in operation 606, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is higher than the temperature of the first storage chamber (616).

[0198] When it is determined in operation 616 that the temperature of the second storage chamber is higher than that of the first storage chamber, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a (618) at a second speed and the second blower fan 410b (620) at a first speed. Therefore, the second storage chamber with a relatively higher temperature can be cooled faster than the first storage chamber with a relatively lower temperature.

[0199] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the predetermined deceleration condition (622) is met.

[0200] In one implementation, when the operating time of the second blower fan 410b exceeds the first reference time, the controller 30 can determine that the deceleration condition is met.

[0201] In another embodiment, when the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the temperature of the first storage chamber, the controller 30 can determine that the deceleration condition is met.

[0202] When the deceleration condition is determined to be met, the controller 30 can decelerate the second blower fan 410b to the second speed. Therefore, the second blower fan 410b can be driven at the second speed (624).

[0203] Referring to Figure 14, when both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2°C) (630).

[0204] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value during operation 630, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0205] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the fourth reference temperature value during operation 630, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (632). Furthermore, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (634).

[0206] Referring back to Figure 13, when it is determined in operation 616 that the temperature of the second storage chamber is not higher than the temperature of the first storage chamber, the controller 30 can determine that the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same.

[0207] Referring to Figure 15, when it is determined in operation 616 that the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same, the controller 30 can drive the first blower fan 410a (640) at the second speed and drive the second blower fan 410b (642) at the second speed.

[0208] When both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are driven, the controller 30 can determine whether the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2°C) (644).

[0209] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value during operation 644, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b can be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0210] When the temperature of the second storage chamber is lower than the fourth reference temperature value during operation 644, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (646). Furthermore, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (648).

[0211] Figure 16 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross-section of a grille fan assembly with a single blower fan. Figure 17 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross-section of a grille fan assembly with two blower fans. Figure 18 shows the cold air velocity measured at each side cross-section of a grille fan assembly with a single blower fan. Figure 19 shows the cold air velocity measured at each front cross-section of a grille fan assembly with two blower fans.

[0212] The grille fan assembly 18 shown in Figures 16 and 18 has the same structure as the grille fan assembly 17 shown in Figures 4 and 7. However, a blower fan is provided inside the grille fan assembly 18 shown in Figures 16 and 18.

[0213] The grille fan assembly 17 shown in Figures 17 and 19 has the same structure as the grille fan assembly 17 shown in Figures 4 and 7. However, two blower fans are provided inside the grille fan assembly 17 shown in Figures 17 and 19.

[0214] Figures 16 and 17 show the cold air velocity measured at cross sections (sections A, B, C, and D) of the area where the evaporator 32 is located in a front view of each of the grille fan assemblies 18 and 17.

[0215] Figures 17 and 19 show the cold air velocity measured at cross sections (sections A, B, C, and D) of the area where the evaporator 32 is located in a side view of each of the grille fan assemblies 18 and 17.

[0216] In Figures 16 to 19, EA represents the area where the evaporator 32 is installed (hereinafter referred to as the "evaporator area"). In addition, in Figures 16 to 19, SA represents the area where the cold air velocity is 0.3 m / s or less (hereinafter referred to as the "low velocity area").

[0217] As shown in Figures 16 and 18, when a single blower fan is installed within the grille fan assembly 18, the cold air from the evaporator region EA is drawn in by only this single blower fan. However, since the amount of cold air drawn in by a single blower fan is limited, the area of ​​the entire evaporator region EA where cold air is drawn in by a single blower fan is very small. Therefore, as shown in Figures 16 and 18, a large area of ​​the evaporator region EA is covered by a velocity reduction region SA where the cold air velocity is very low.

[0218] When the velocity reduction zone SA is wide, the velocity of the cold air flowing between the grille fan assembly 18 and the evaporator zone EA decreases. Therefore, the cold air in the storage compartment cannot move quickly toward the evaporator 32, and the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 cannot be quickly supplied to the storage compartment. This reduces the cooling efficiency of the evaporator 32 and increases the refrigerator's power consumption.

[0219] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 17 and 19, when two blowers are installed within the grille fan assembly 17, the cold air in the evaporator region EA is drawn in by the two blowers. Therefore, compared to a single blower, the amount of cold air drawn in by the blowers increases, and the area of ​​the region in the entire evaporator region EA where cold air is drawn in increases. Consequently, the area of ​​the velocity reduction region SA shown in Figures 17 and 18 is smaller than the area shown in Figures 16 and 18.

[0220] When the flow rate reduction zone SA decreases, the velocity of the cold air flowing between the grille fan assembly 17 and the evaporator zone EA increases, allowing the cold air in the storage compartment to move towards the evaporator 32 more quickly, and the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 to be supplied to the storage compartment more quickly. This improves the cooling efficiency of the evaporator 32 and reduces the refrigerator's power consumption.

[0221] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to exemplary accompanying drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, even if the effects of configurations according to the present disclosure are not explicitly described in the description of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be apparent that the effects can be predicted from the corresponding configurations.

[0222] Cross-reference to related applications

[0223] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0150710, filed on October 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: Storage room, the storage room including a first storage room and a second storage room; A compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; A first door, configured to open and close the first storage compartment; A second door, configured to open and close the second storage chamber; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage chamber and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; and a first blower fan disposed in the first storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber. A second blower fan is disposed in the second storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber; The controller is configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, wherein the controller is configured to: drive the compressor and drive the first blower fan at a predetermined first speed when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and the first door is detected to be open; drive the second blower fan at a second speed when a first deceleration condition is determined to be met, while simultaneously decelerating the speed of the first blower fan to a predetermined second speed; and terminate the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the first blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time, when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, or when the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to drive the second blower fan at the first speed if the second door is detected to be open after the first door is detected to be open.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein, The controller is configured to reduce the speed of at least one of the first blower fan and the second blower fan to the second speed when a predetermined second deceleration condition is determined to be met.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein, The controller is configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the first blower or the operating time of the second blower exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

6. A method for controlling a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: Storage room, the storage room including a first storage room and a second storage room; A compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; A first door, configured to open and close the first storage compartment; A second door, configured to open and close the second storage chamber; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage chamber and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; and a first blower fan disposed in the first storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber. A second blower fan is disposed in the second storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber; The method includes: driving the compressor when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and the first door is detected to be open; driving the first blower at a predetermined first speed; driving the second blower at a predetermined second speed when a predetermined first deceleration condition is determined to be met, while simultaneously decelerating the speed of the first blower to the second speed; and terminating the operation of the compressor, the first blower, and the second blower when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, When the operating time of the first blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time, when the temperature of the first storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, or when the temperature of the second storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value, it is determined that the first deceleration condition is met.

8. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: After detecting that the first door is open, if the second door is detected to be open, the second blower fan is driven at the first speed.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising reducing the speed of the second blower fan to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is met.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, When the operating time of the first blower fan or the operating time of the second blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when the temperature of the second storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, it is determined that the second deceleration condition is met.

11. A refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: Storage room, the storage room including a first storage room and a second storage room; A compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; A first door, configured to open and close the first storage compartment; A second door, configured to open and close the second storage chamber; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage chamber and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; and a first blower fan disposed in the first storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber. A second blower fan is disposed in the second storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber; and a controller configured to control the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan and the second blower fan, wherein the controller is configured to: drive the compressor at a first speed to drive the blower fan corresponding to the storage chamber with a higher temperature among the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber at a second speed when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference value; When the predetermined deceleration condition is met, the speed of the blower fan driven at the first speed is reduced to the second speed; and when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan and the second blower fan is terminated.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to determine that the deceleration condition is met when the operating time of the blower driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when the temperature of the storage chamber having the higher temperature is lower than the temperature of the storage chamber having the lower temperature.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to drive the compressor and drive the first blower and the second blower at the same speed when the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same, and to terminate the operation of the compressor, the first blower and the second blower when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than the second reference temperature value.

14. A method for controlling a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising: Storage room, the storage room including a first storage room and a second storage room; A compressor configured to compress a refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; A first door, configured to open and close the first storage compartment; A second door, configured to open and close the second storage chamber; an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage chamber and using the refrigerant to generate cold air; and a first blower fan disposed in the first storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber. A second blower fan is disposed in the second storage chamber and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage chamber; The method includes: driving the compressor when the temperature of the storage chamber is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value; driving the blower corresponding to the storage chamber with the higher temperature among the first and second storage chambers at a first speed; driving the blower corresponding to the storage chamber with the lower temperature among the first and second storage chambers at a second speed; reducing the speed of the blower driven at the first speed to the second speed when a predetermined deceleration condition is determined to be met; and terminating the operation of the compressor, the first blower, and the second blower when the temperature of the storage chamber is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The deceleration condition is determined to be met when the operating time of the blower driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when the temperature of the storage chamber having the higher temperature is lower than the temperature of the storage chamber having the lower temperature.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising: When the temperature of the first storage chamber and the temperature of the second storage chamber are the same, the compressor is driven; The first blower fan and the second blower fan are driven at the same speed respectively; And when the temperature of the storage chamber is lower than the predetermined second reference temperature value, the operation of the compressor, the first blower fan and the second blower fan shall be terminated.

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