Control method of a refrigerated container and refrigerated container

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of biological sample storage, and particularly provides a control method of a refrigeration box and the refrigeration box, aiming to solve the problem of insufficient temperature control capacity of the existing refrigeration box when facing the use requirement of low-temperature preservation of biological samples which requires higher temperature control. For this purpose, the refrigeration box comprises a box body and a preservation container; the preservation container is used for storing biological samples, and is filled with a preservation liquid; the preservation container is arranged in the box body, and the box body is filled with a refrigeration liquid. The control method comprises: acquiring a first actual temperature of the refrigeration liquid and a second actual temperature of the preservation liquid; and controlling the refrigeration box to enter a corresponding working mode according to the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature. The present application realizes rapid and accurate cooling, meets diversified requirements and has stable storage environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of biological sample storage technology, specifically providing a control method for a refrigerator and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] In fields such as biomedical research and clinical testing, the cryopreservation of biological samples (such as cells, tissues, blood, and nucleic acids) is of paramount importance.

[0003] Refrigerated boxes used in the medical industry are mainly divided into two types according to their refrigeration method: one is a semiconductor refrigeration refrigerator. Due to the limited cooling capacity of the semiconductor refrigeration module, it is greatly affected by the ambient temperature, and the heat preservation effect will be significantly reduced in high-temperature environments.

[0004] Specifically, the following significant drawbacks exist: Large temperature fluctuations: When the refrigerator is opened to retrieve or place samples, hot outside air rushes in, causing drastic temperature fluctuations inside the unit. Even if the door is closed quickly, the thermoelectric cooler requires time to bring the air temperature back down to the set range. Slow temperature recovery: Air has a low heat capacity but poor thermal conductivity, resulting in poor overall temperature uniformity within the unit and a slow temperature recovery rate. Impact on sample viability: Frequent temperature fluctuations can cause irreversible damage to the viability and long-term preservation quality of biological samples, especially when multiple samples are stored in the unit and repeatedly retrieved or placed, the cumulative temperature rise effect is even more significant.

[0005] Another type is the phase change cold storage refrigerator, which has a limited heat preservation time, generally 6 to 8 hours, and the temperature is uncontrollable, rising slowly over time and cannot be actively adjusted.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a cold storage device that can effectively isolate external interference and achieve stable control of the sample core temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, to solve the problem that existing refrigerators have insufficient temperature control capabilities when facing the use of low-temperature preservation of biological samples, which requires high temperature control.

[0008] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising a body and a storage container; the storage container is used to store biological samples and is filled with a storage solution; the storage container is disposed within the body, the body being filled with a refrigerant; the refrigerator further comprises a heat exchange unit; the heat exchange unit comprises multiple heat exchange modules, each heat exchange module comprising a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel, the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange channel and the storage solution flowing through the second heat exchange channel; the number of the multiple heat exchange modules is N; the first heat exchange channels of the N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form... The first heat exchange branch; the second heat exchange channels of N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form a second heat exchange branch; the heat exchange unit also includes a first control valve and a second control valve. When the first control valve is de-energized, the housing can be connected to the first heat exchange branch to form a first main circulation loop. When the second control valve is de-energized, the storage container is connected to the second heat exchange branch to form a second main circulation loop; the N heat exchange modules include a first part and a second part. The first part includes the first NM heat exchange modules, and the second part includes M heat exchange modules; where M < N; the heat exchange unit also includes a first... A branch pipe, when the first control valve is energized, connects the housing, the first branch pipe, and the first heat exchange channel of either the first part or the second part to form a first branch circulation loop; the heat exchange unit also includes a second branch pipe, when the second control valve is energized, connects the storage container, the second branch pipe, and the second heat exchange channel of the other of the first part or the second part to form a second branch circulation loop; the control method includes: acquiring a first actual temperature of the refrigerant and a second actual temperature of the storage liquid; controlling the refrigerator to enter a corresponding working mode based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature; the working modes include: a single refrigerant circulation mode, a single storage liquid circulation mode, and a dual liquid circulation mode; wherein, the single refrigerant circulation mode is: the first control valve is de-energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first main circulation loop; the single storage liquid circulation mode is: the second control valve is de-energized, so that the storage liquid flows in the second main circulation loop; the dual liquid circulation mode is: both the first control valve and the second control valve are energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

[0009] By employing the above technical solution, a dual liquid environment is created, consisting of a preservation solution and a refrigerant. The preservation container is immersed in the refrigerant, and the biological sample is immersed in the preservation solution. The refrigerant has a high specific heat capacity, effectively buffering external temperature fluctuations and maintaining a stable temperature around the preservation container. Simultaneously, the preservation solution directly contacts the biological sample, providing a constant liquid environment and avoiding sudden temperature changes caused by air convection or door opening / closing in traditional refrigerators, thus ensuring the normal shape and function of the sample.

[0010] Furthermore, by monitoring the actual temperatures of the refrigerant and the storage liquid separately, and based on the changes in the two actual temperatures, the refrigerator can be flexibly switched between multiple working modes, thereby achieving full-condition coverage from rapid cooling to precise temperature control, meeting the needs of diverse scenarios and the stability of the storage environment.

[0011] Furthermore, in single refrigerant circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the refrigerant with maximum heat exchange power. In single storage liquid circulation mode, the storage liquid flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the storage liquid or ensuring its temperature distribution is uniform with maximum heat exchange power. In dual-liquid circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through only some heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with partial heat exchange power. The storage liquid also flows through only some heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with partial heat exchange power. By employing two independent circulations, the two circulations do not interfere with each other, ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0012] In a specific implementation of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, "controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode according to the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" includes: when the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is less than the second preset temperature, controlling the refrigerator to enter a single refrigerant circulation mode.

[0013] When the above technical solution is adopted, if the temperature of the refrigerant is too high and the temperature of the storage liquid is within a reasonable range, only the refrigerant is driven to circulate, so as to achieve rapid cooling of the refrigerant, and the storage liquid does not need to be actively circulated.

[0014] In a specific implementation of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, "controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode according to the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" further includes: when the first actual temperature is less than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, controlling the refrigerator to enter a single-preservation liquid circulation mode.

[0015] When the above technical solution is adopted, if the temperature of the refrigerant is within a reasonable range and the temperature of the storage liquid is too high, only the storage liquid is driven to circulate, so as to achieve rapid cooling of the storage liquid, and the refrigerant does not need to be actively circulated.

[0016] In a specific implementation of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, "controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode according to the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" further includes: when the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, controlling the refrigerator to enter the dual-liquid circulation mode.

[0017] When the temperature of both the refrigerant and the storage liquid is too high, the refrigerant and the storage liquid are simultaneously driven to circulate, thereby achieving rapid cooling of the refrigerant and the storage liquid respectively.

[0018] In a specific embodiment of the above-described control method for the refrigerator, each heat exchange module further includes a heat exchange body, wherein the first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are respectively disposed within the heat exchange body and exchange heat with the heat exchange body; the heat exchange unit further includes a first pump body, which is capable of driving the refrigerant to flow in the first main circulation loop; the heat exchange unit further includes a second pump body, which is capable of driving the storage liquid to flow in the second main circulation loop; "controlling the refrigerator to enter a single refrigerant circulation mode" includes: controlling the first pump body to turn on, the second pump body to turn off, and the first control valve to de-energize, so that the refrigerant flows in the first main circulation loop; and / or "controlling the refrigerator to enter a single storage liquid circulation mode" includes: controlling the first pump body to turn off, the second pump body to turn on, and the second control valve to de-energize, so that the storage liquid flows in the second main circulation loop.

[0019] When employing the above technical solution, in single refrigerant circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the refrigerant with maximum heat exchange power. Since the second pump is in a closed state, the storage liquid does not participate in circulation; the storage container passively cools down through heat exchange with the refrigerant. This mode is suitable for the following scenarios: the refrigerant temperature is too high and requires rapid cooling, while the storage liquid temperature is still within the target range and does not require active circulation.

[0020] Furthermore, in the single-preservation-liquid circulation mode, the preservation liquid flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the liquid or ensuring a uniform temperature distribution at maximum heat exchange power. Since the first pump is in a closed state, the refrigerant does not participate in active circulation, passively maintaining its temperature through heat exchange with the preservation container. This mode is suitable for the following scenarios: when the preservation liquid temperature is too high and requires rapid cooling, while the refrigerant temperature remains within the target range and active circulation is unnecessary.

[0021] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, the first pump body can also drive the refrigerant to flow in the first branch circulation loop; the second pump body can also drive the preservation liquid to flow in the second branch circulation loop; "controlling the refrigerator to enter the dual-liquid circulation mode" includes: controlling both the first pump body and the second pump body to be turned on, and energizing both the first control valve and the second control valve, so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the preservation liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

[0022] With the above technical solution, in the dual-liquid circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through only a portion of the heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with a portion of the heat exchange power. The storage liquid flows through only a portion of the heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with a portion of the heat exchange power. By employing two independent circulations, the two circulations do not interfere with each other, ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0023] In a specific implementation of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, the working mode further includes a standby mode; the control method further includes: when the first actual temperature is less than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is less than the second preset temperature, controlling the refrigerator to enter the standby mode.

[0024] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, the refrigerator further includes a refrigeration unit and a heat dissipation unit. The refrigeration unit exchanges heat with the heat exchange unit, and the heat dissipation unit can dissipate heat from the refrigeration unit. "Controlling the refrigerator to enter standby mode" includes: controlling both the first pump and the second pump to turn off, and both the refrigeration unit and the heat dissipation unit to turn off.

[0025] When the temperatures of the refrigerant and the storage liquid are both within a reasonable range, both the first and second pumps are shut down, and neither the refrigerant nor the storage liquid undergoes active circulation. The controller sends a shutdown command to the refrigeration unit and the cooling unit, causing them to stop operating. At this time, the refrigeration unit no longer actively cools the refrigerant, and correspondingly, the cooling unit no longer actively cools the refrigeration unit, thus avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.

[0026] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned control method for the refrigerator, the control method further includes: before the storage container is placed into the refrigerator body, controlling the refrigeration unit, the heat dissipation unit and the first pump body to all be turned on.

[0027] When employing the above technical solution, before the user places the storage container containing the biological sample into the chamber, the controller first starts the refrigeration unit, and simultaneously activates the cooling unit and the first pump. The refrigeration unit begins actively cooling the refrigerant inside the chamber, and the first pump drives the refrigerant to circulate in the first main circulation loop, rapidly reducing the refrigerant temperature to the preset target temperature range. The cooling unit actively dissipates heat from the refrigeration unit, ensuring effective cooling.

[0028] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a refrigerator, the refrigerator including a controller configured to perform the control method described above. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the refrigerator box of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a top view of the refrigerator box of the present invention without the top cover; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the refrigerator box of the present invention with the top cover and second partition removed; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the heat exchange unit and the inner liner in the refrigerator of this invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the heat exchange unit and the storage container in the refrigerator of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal piping connection between the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module in the refrigerator of the present invention; Figure 8 The diagram below shows the working principle of the heat exchange unit in the refrigerator of this invention. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the refrigerator in single refrigerant circulation mode of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the refrigerator of the present invention in single preservation liquid circulation mode; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the refrigerator in dual-liquid circulation mode of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the main steps of the control method for the refrigerator of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a detailed flowchart of the control method for the refrigerator of the present invention; The components are as follows: 1. Box body; 11. Outer shell; 111. Grille; 12. Inner liner; 13. First chamber; 14. Second chamber; 2. Top cover; 3. First partition; 4. Second partition; 5. Storage container; 6. Refrigeration unit; 61. First refrigeration module; 62. Second refrigeration module; 7. Heat exchange unit; 71. First heat exchange module; 711. Heat exchange body; 712. First heat exchange channel; 713. Second heat exchange channel; 72. Second heat exchange module; 73. First control valve; 74. First branch pipeline; 75. First pump body; 76. Second control valve; 77. Second branch pipeline; 78. Second pump body; 8. Cooling unit; 81. First cooling module; 82. Second cooling module. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make adjustments as needed to adapt to specific application scenarios.

[0031] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, terms such as "left," "right," "up," and "down," which indicate direction or positional relationship, are based on the direction or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. This is merely for the convenience of description and does not indicate or imply that the relevant device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0032] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0033] Furthermore, it should be noted that although the various steps of the control method of the present invention are described in a specific order in the description of the present invention, these orders are not restrictive. Without departing from the basic principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can perform the steps in different orders.

[0034] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, this embodiment provides a refrigerator for the cryopreservation and transportation of biological samples (such as cells, tissues, blood, nucleic acid samples, organs, etc.). The refrigerator of this embodiment includes a box body 1 and a preservation container 5. The preservation container 5 is disposed within the box body 1 and is used to store the biological sample; the preservation container 5 is filled with a preservation solution. Specifically, the preservation container 5 has a sealed receiving cavity filled with the preservation solution. At least a portion of the biological sample is immersed in the preservation solution. The preservation solution provides a storage environment for the biological sample. Optionally, the preservation solution is selected from one or more combinations of the following liquids: cell culture medium, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), physiological saline, tissue preservation solution (such as UW solution, HTK solution, etc.), or a protective liquid containing antioxidants and antibiotics. The temperature of the preservation solution is preferably maintained at 2°C to 8°C (refrigeration) or -20°C to -80°C (freezing), with the specific temperature range determined according to the type of biological sample. Immersing biological samples in a preservation solution can effectively prevent the samples from drying out, maintain osmotic pressure balance, inhibit microbial growth, and reduce mechanical damage to the samples caused by ice crystal formation during freezing.

[0035] The enclosure 1 is filled with refrigerant, and at least a portion of the storage container 5 is immersed in the refrigerant. The refrigerant provides a suitable storage environment for the storage container 5. Optionally, the refrigerant is a liquid with high specific heat capacity and high thermal conductivity, selected from one or more combinations of the following liquids: water, deionized water, aqueous ethylene glycol solution, aqueous propylene glycol solution, or silicone oil. By immersing the storage container 5 in the refrigerant, all-round and uniform cooling of the storage container 5 can be achieved, avoiding damage to biological samples due to local temperature differences.

[0036] In the above structure, a dual liquid environment of preservation solution and refrigerant is established. The preservation container 5 is immersed in the refrigerant, and the biological sample is immersed in the preservation solution. The refrigerant has a high specific heat capacity, which can effectively buffer external temperature fluctuations and keep the temperature around the preservation container 5 stable. At the same time, the preservation solution is in direct contact with the biological sample, providing a constant liquid environment for the sample and avoiding the sudden temperature changes caused by air convection or opening and closing the door in traditional refrigerators, thus ensuring the normal shape and function of the sample.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the box 1 includes an outer shell 11 and an inner liner 12. The inner liner 12 is located inside the outer shell 11, and the storage container 5 is located inside the inner liner 12. The inner liner 12 is filled with refrigerant, so that at least a portion of the storage container 5 is immersed in the refrigerant.

[0038] Optionally, multiple independent preservation containers 5 can be set inside the inner liner 12 to store different types of biological samples. Each preservation container 5 can be equipped with preservation solutions of the same or different formulations to achieve multiple uses from one container.

[0039] Optionally, a fixing bracket (not shown in the figure) is provided inside the inner liner 12, and the storage container 5 is detachably installed inside the inner liner 12 via the fixing bracket. The fixing bracket is used to maintain the storage container 5 at a predetermined immersion depth in the refrigerant, preventing the storage container 5 from floating or tilting due to shaking during transportation.

[0040] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a first partition 3 is provided inside the outer shell 11, dividing the interior of the outer shell 11 into a first chamber 13 and a second chamber 14. The inner liner 12 is disposed in the second chamber 14, and there are gap cavities between the inner liner 12 and the outer shell 11 and the first partition 3. A second partition 4 is also provided inside the outer shell 11, which closes the top opening of the gap cavity. The gap cavity is filled with thermal insulation material to improve the thermal insulation performance of the inner liner 12.

[0041] Optionally, the insulation material is polyurethane foam used to fill the gap cavity. The housing 1 also includes a top cover 2, which is connected to the top opening edge of the outer shell 11 and is used to close or open the storage space of the inner liner 12. A control module and a display module are embedded inside the top cover 2. The control module is used to collect operating parameters and execute the control methods described below. The display module is used to display the current operating status, input control commands, etc.

[0042] like Figures 2-6 As shown, the refrigerator also includes a refrigeration unit 6 and a heat exchange unit 7. The heat exchange unit 7 is disposed in the gap cavity, and the refrigeration unit 6 passes through the first partition 3. One part of the refrigeration unit 6 is disposed in the gap cavity, and the other part is disposed in the first chamber 13.

[0043] In one specific embodiment, the refrigeration unit 6 is a semiconductor refrigeration unit. The heat exchange unit 7 is a plate heat exchange unit. The semiconductor refrigeration unit includes a cold end and a hot end. The cold end of the semiconductor refrigeration unit is located in the gap cavity and is attached to the heat exchange surface of the heat exchange unit 7 to achieve thermal coupling. The hot end of the semiconductor refrigeration unit is located in the first chamber 13.

[0044] Optionally, the refrigeration unit 6 is an integrated structure, that is, the refrigeration unit 6 exchanges heat with the heat exchange unit 7 as a whole.

[0045] Optionally, the refrigeration unit 6 has a split structure, including multiple refrigeration modules, that is, each refrigeration module exchanges heat with the corresponding heat exchange unit 7.

[0046] Optionally, a mounting through hole is provided on the first partition plate 3, and the semiconductor refrigerator unit is embedded in the mounting through hole. The gap between the semiconductor refrigerator unit and the mounting through hole is filled with a sealing and heat-insulating material to isolate the heat exchange between the gap cavity and the first chamber 13.

[0047] The refrigerator also includes a heat dissipation unit 8, which is disposed in the first chamber 13 and thermally coupled to the refrigeration unit 6 located in the first chamber 13 to ensure heat dissipation of the refrigeration unit 6. Specifically, the hot end of the semiconductor refrigeration unit is located in the first chamber 13 and is attached to the surface of the heat dissipation unit 8 to achieve thermal coupling.

[0048] In one specific embodiment, the heat dissipation unit 8 includes a fan and heat dissipation fins. The heat dissipation fins are disposed between the fan and the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler unit, and are thermally coupled to the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler unit. Optionally, the heat dissipation fins are attached to the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler unit to achieve thermal coupling. The fan drives ambient air to flow through the heat dissipation fins to accelerate heat exchange between the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler unit and the ambient environment. Specifically, the heat generated at the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler unit is transferred to the heat dissipation fins, and the fan drives ambient air to flow through the heat dissipation fins, carrying away the heat and dissipating it to the ambient environment, thereby ensuring the cooling efficiency of the thermoelectric cooler unit.

[0049] Optionally, the cooling unit 8 is an integrated structure, that is, the cooling unit 8 as a whole dissipates heat from the refrigeration unit 6.

[0050] Optionally, the cooling unit 8 has a split structure, including multiple cooling modules, that is, each cooling module is connected to the corresponding cooling unit 6 for heat dissipation.

[0051] In addition, to ensure the heat dissipation effect of the refrigeration unit 6, the first chamber 13 is not insulated, and a heat dissipation grille 111 communicating with the first chamber 13 is provided on the outer shell 11 for heat dissipation of the refrigeration unit 6. The heat exchange unit 7 is installed after the gap cavity, and the gap cavity is filled with insulation material. The refrigeration unit 6 exchanges heat with the heat exchange unit 7 so that the temperature of the refrigerant and the storage liquid can be controlled separately.

[0052] It should be noted that although the refrigeration unit 6 described above is in conjunction with a semiconductor refrigeration unit and the heat exchange unit 7 is in conjunction with a plate heat exchange unit, this is not limiting. Those skilled in the art can also, as needed, use a compression refrigeration unit for the refrigeration unit 6 and a finned heat exchange unit for the heat exchange unit 7, as long as the refrigeration unit 6 can exchange heat with the heat exchange unit 7 so as to control the temperature of the refrigerant and the storage liquid separately.

[0053] like Figures 2-6As shown, the heat exchanger unit 7 can carry refrigerant and is connected to the inner liner 12 to form a refrigerant circulation loop. The refrigeration unit 6 exchanges heat with the heat exchanger unit 7 to provide a storage environment for the storage container 5. Specifically, the refrigerant outlet of the heat exchanger unit 7 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the inner liner 12, and the refrigerant outlet of the inner liner 12 is connected to the refrigerant return port of the heat exchanger unit 7, forming an independent closed loop path. Optionally, the refrigerant outlet and inlet of the inner liner 12 are respectively located on the back side of the inner liner 12 (the side closest to the heat exchanger unit 7). The refrigeration unit 6 and the heat exchanger unit 7 exchange heat to cool or heat the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation loop. Through this refrigerant circulation loop, the refrigerant can provide a storage environment for the storage container 5.

[0054] The heat exchanger unit 7 can also flow through the preservation solution and connect to the preservation container 5 to form a preservation solution circulation loop. The refrigeration unit 6 exchanges heat with the heat exchanger unit 7 to provide a storage environment for the biological sample. Specifically, the preservation solution outlet of the heat exchanger unit 7 is connected to the preservation solution inlet of the preservation container 5, and the preservation solution outlet of the preservation container 5 is connected to the preservation solution return port of the heat exchanger unit 7, forming an independent closed loop path. Optionally, the preservation solution outlet is located at the top of the preservation container 5, and the preservation solution inlet is located at the bottom of the preservation container 5. The refrigeration unit 6 regulates the temperature of the preservation solution in the preservation solution circulation loop through heat exchange with the heat exchanger unit 7. Through this preservation solution circulation loop, the preservation solution can directly contact the biological sample to provide a storage environment for the biological sample.

[0055] In the above structure, the heat exchange unit 7 can be used as both a driving and heat exchange unit for the refrigerant circulation and a driving and heat exchange unit for the preservation liquid circulation. It works in conjunction with the refrigeration unit 6 to achieve indirect control and direct contact temperature regulation of the environment of the preservation container 5, respectively. This enables rapid, accurate and stable control of the temperature of the biological sample storage environment, meeting the storage needs of different types of biological samples.

[0056] like Figure 7 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 7 includes multiple heat exchange modules. Each heat exchange module includes a heat exchange body 711 and a first heat exchange channel 712. The first heat exchange channel 712 is disposed inside the heat exchange body 711, and the refrigerant flows through the first heat exchange channel 712 to exchange heat with the heat exchange body 711. Optionally, the heat exchange body 711 is made of a material with good thermal conductivity (such as aluminum, copper, or aluminum alloy), and its outer surface may also be provided with fins to increase the heat exchange area.

[0057] The number of heat exchange modules is N. The first heat exchange channels 712 of the N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form a first heat exchange branch. The first heat exchange branch is connected to the inner liner 12 to form a first main circulation loop. Specifically, along the flow direction of the refrigerant, the N heat exchange modules are, in order, the first heat exchange module 71, the second heat exchange module 72, ..., the Nth heat exchange module. The first heat exchange branch is formed by connecting the first heat exchange channels 712 of the first heat exchange module 71 to the Nth heat exchange module in series. The inlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the first heat exchange module 71 serves as the inlet of the first heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the Nth heat exchange module serves as the outlet of the first heat exchange branch. The outlet of the inner liner 12 is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the first heat exchange branch is connected to the inlet of the inner liner 12. When the refrigerant circulates in the first main circulation loop, it absorbs heat (or is cooled) in the inner liner 12, then flows through the first heat exchange channel 712 of each heat exchange module, exchanges heat with the heat exchange body 711, and then enters the inner liner 12, thereby regulating the temperature of the refrigerant in the inner liner 12 and providing a suitable storage environment for the storage container 5.

[0058] like Figure 8 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 7 also includes a first control valve 73 and a first branch pipe 74. Optionally, the first control valve 73 is a three-way solenoid valve, including an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The inner tank 12 can be connected to the first heat exchange branch and the first branch pipe 74 respectively through the first control valve 73. The N heat exchange modules include a first part and a second part. The first part includes the first NM heat exchange modules, and the second part includes M heat exchange modules; wherein, M < N; the first branch pipe 74 is also connected to the first heat exchange flow channel 712 of one of the first part and the second part.

[0059] In one possible embodiment, a first control valve 73 is disposed between the inner liner 12 and the first heat exchange branch, and a first branch pipe 74 is connected to the first heat exchange channel 712 of the second part. Specifically, the outlet of the inner liner 12 is connected to the inlet of the first control valve 73, the first outlet of the first control valve 73 is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange branch, and the second outlet of the first control valve 73 is connected to the inlet of the first branch pipe 74. The outlet of the first branch pipe 74 is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the heat exchange module at the beginning of the second part.

[0060] When the first control valve 73 is de-energized, the inner tank 12 and the first heat exchange branch are interconnected to form the first main circulation loop. At this time, the refrigerant flow path is: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → first outlet of first control valve 73 → first heat exchange branch (i.e., flowing sequentially through the first heat exchange channel 712 of all heat exchange modules) → inlet of inner tank 12. When the first control valve 73 is energized, the inner tank 12, the first branch pipe 74, and the second part of the first heat exchange channel 712 are interconnected to form the first branch circulation loop. At this time, the refrigerant flow path is: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → second outlet of first control valve 73 → first branch pipe 74 → second part of the first heat exchange channel 712 → inlet of inner tank 12.

[0061] like Figure 8 As shown, the heat exchange unit 7 also includes a first pump body 75, which can drive the refrigerant to flow in the first main circulation loop or the first branch circulation loop. Optionally, the first pump body 75 is disposed on the pipeline between the outlet of the first heat exchange branch and the inlet of the inner tank 12. When the first pump body 75 is working, the refrigerant is drawn from the inner tank 12, flows through the first control valve 73 to the first heat exchange branch or the first branch pipeline 74, and then returns to the inner tank 12, forming a forced circulation.

[0062] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, each heat exchange module also includes a second heat exchange channel 713, which is disposed within the heat exchange body 711. The storage liquid flows through the second heat exchange channel 713 and exchanges heat with the heat exchange body 711. The second heat exchange channels 713 of N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form a second heat exchange branch. The second heat exchange branch and the storage container 5 are interconnected to form a second main circulation loop. Specifically, following the same rules as described above, along the flow direction of the refrigerant, the N heat exchange modules are sequentially designated as the first heat exchange module 71, the second heat exchange module 72, ..., the Nth heat exchange module. The second heat exchange branch is formed by connecting the second heat exchange channels 713 of the first heat exchange module 71 to the Nth heat exchange module in series. The inlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the first heat exchange module 71 serves as the inlet of the second heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the Nth heat exchange module serves as the outlet of the second heat exchange branch. The outlet of the preservation container 5 is connected to the inlet of the second heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the second heat exchange branch is connected to the inlet of the preservation container 5. When the preservation solution circulates in the second main circulation loop, it absorbs heat from the biological sample (or is cooled) within the preservation container 5, then flows through the second heat exchange channel 713 of each heat exchange module, exchanges heat with the heat exchange body 711, and then enters the preservation container 5. This achieves the regulation of the temperature of the preservation solution in the preservation container 5, thereby providing a suitable storage environment for the biological sample.

[0063] like Figure 8 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 7 also includes a second control valve 76 and a second branch pipe 77. Optionally, the second control valve 76 is a three-way solenoid valve, including an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The storage container 5 can be connected to the second heat exchange branch and the second branch pipe 77 respectively through the second control valve 76. The second branch pipe 77 is also connected to the second heat exchange channel 713 of the other of the first and second parts.

[0064] In one possible embodiment, the second control valve 76 is disposed on the pipeline between the first part and the second part, and the second branch pipeline 77 is connected to the second heat exchange channel 713 of the first part. Specifically, the outlet of the storage container 5 is connected to the inlet of the second heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the second heat exchange branch is connected to the inlet of the storage container 5. The inlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the outlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the heat exchange module at the end of the first part, the first outlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the inlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the heat exchange module at the beginning of the second part, the second outlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the inlet of the second branch pipeline 77, and the outlet of the second branch pipeline 77 is connected to the inlet of the storage container 5.

[0065] When the second control valve 76 is de-energized, the storage container 5 and the second heat exchange branch are connected to form a second main circulation loop. At this time, the flow path of the storage liquid is: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the first part of the heat exchange module → inlet of the second control valve 76 → first outlet of the second control valve 76 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the second part of the heat exchange module (i.e., flowing sequentially through the second heat exchange channels 713 of all heat exchange modules) → inlet of storage container 5. When the second control valve 76 is energized, the storage container 5, the second branch pipe 77, and the second heat exchange channel 713 are connected to form a second branch circulation loop. At this time, the flow path of the storage liquid is: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the first part of the heat exchange module → inlet of the second control valve 76 → second outlet of the second control valve 76 → second branch pipe 77 → inlet of storage container 5.

[0066] like Figure 8 As shown, the heat exchanger unit 7 also includes a second pump body 78, which drives the refrigerant to flow in the second main circulation loop or the second branch circulation loop. Optionally, the outlet of the second heat exchange branch and the outlet of the second branch pipe 77 are respectively connected to the inlet of the second pump body 78, and the outlet of the second pump body 78 is connected to the inlet of the storage container 5. When the second pump body 78 is working, the storage liquid is drawn from the storage container 5, flows to the second heat exchange branch or the second branch pipe 77 under the action of the second control valve 76, and then returns to the storage container 5, forming a forced circulation.

[0067] In one specific embodiment, there are two cooling modules: a first cooling module 61 and a second cooling module 62; two heat exchange modules: a first heat exchange module 71 and a second heat exchange module 72; and two heat dissipation modules: a first heat dissipation module 81 and a second heat dissipation module 82. The first cooling module 61 exchanges heat with the first heat exchange module 71, and the second cooling module 62 exchanges heat with the second heat exchange module 72. The first heat dissipation module 81 dissipates heat from the first cooling module 61, and the second heat dissipation module 82 dissipates heat from the second cooling module 62.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown, the first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 are positioned at the lower end relative to the second heat exchange module 72, correspondingly, as... Figure 7 As shown, the outlet ends of the two flow channels of the second heat exchange module 72 are located at the lower end. It should be noted that the above description is merely exemplary, and this application does not limit the location of the pump body and the corresponding heat exchange module outlet ends, as long as the two are interconnected to achieve the circulation of refrigerant and storage liquid respectively.

[0069] like Figure 8 As shown, in the refrigerant circulation system, the first heat exchange channel 712 of the first heat exchange module 71 and the first heat exchange channel 712 of the second heat exchange module 72 are connected in series to form a first heat exchange branch. The inlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the first heat exchange module 71 serves as the inlet of the first heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the second heat exchange module 72 serves as the outlet of the first heat exchange branch. The inlet of the first control valve 73 is connected to the outlet of the inner tank 12, the first outlet of the first control valve 73 is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the first heat exchange module 71, the second outlet of the first control valve 73 is connected to the inlet of the first branch pipe 74, the outlet of the first branch pipe 74 is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the second heat exchange module 72, and the outlet of the first heat exchange channel 712 of the second heat exchange module 72 is connected in sequence to the inlet of the first pump body 75 and the inner tank 12.

[0070] like Figure 9 As shown, in the first main circulation loop, the flow path of the refrigerant is: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → first outlet of first control valve 73 → first heat exchange channel 712 of first heat exchange module 71 → first heat exchange channel 712 of second heat exchange module 72 → inlet of inner tank 12.

[0071] like Figure 11 As shown, in the first branch circulation loop, the flow path of the refrigerant is: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → second outlet of first control valve 73 → first branch pipe 74 → first heat exchange channel 712 of second heat exchange module 72 → inlet of inner tank 12.

[0072] In the storage liquid circulation system, the second heat exchange channel 713 of the first heat exchange module 71 and the second heat exchange channel 713 of the second heat exchange module 72 are connected in series to form a second heat exchange branch. The inlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the first heat exchange module 71 serves as the inlet of the second heat exchange branch, and the outlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the second heat exchange module 72 serves as the outlet of the second heat exchange branch. The inlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the outlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the first heat exchange module 71, the first outlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the inlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the second heat exchange module 72, the second outlet of the second control valve 76 is connected to the inlet of the second branch pipe 77, the outlet of the second branch pipe 77 is connected to the inlet of the second pump body 78, the outlet of the second heat exchange channel 713 of the second heat exchange module 72 is connected to the inlet of the second pump body 78, and the outlet of the second pump body 78 is connected to the inlet of the storage container 5.

[0073] like Figure 10 As shown, in the second main circulation loop, the flow path of the storage liquid is: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of first heat exchange module 71 → inlet of second control valve 76 → first outlet of second control valve 76 → second heat exchange channel 713 of second heat exchange module 72 → inlet of storage container 5.

[0074] like Figure 11 As shown, in the second branch circulation loop, the flow path of the storage liquid is: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the first heat exchange module 71 → inlet of the second control valve 76 → second outlet of the second control valve 76 → second branch pipeline 77 → inlet of storage container 5.

[0075] It should be noted that the above description pertains to a situation where one or more storage containers 5 are provided, and multiple storage containers 5 use storage liquids with the same formulation. However, this is not limiting; the present invention is also applicable to a situation where multiple storage containers 5 are provided, and multiple storage containers 5 use storage liquids with different formulations. Optionally, in this case, each heat exchange module is further provided with a third heat exchange channel, ..., a Pth heat exchange module, and the heat exchange unit 7 further includes a third branch pipe, ..., a Pth branch pipe, a third solenoid valve, ..., a Pth solenoid valve, and a third water pump, ..., a Pth water pump, wherein the number of P is equal to the number of types of storage liquid formulations, and the number of heat exchange modules is greater than or equal to the number of types of storage liquid formulations. Its connection structure and the flow path of the storage liquid are the same as the second main circulation loop and the second branch circulation loop described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0076] like Figure 12 As shown, the present invention also provides a control method for a refrigerator. Specifically, the control method of the present invention includes: S1, obtain the first actual temperature of the refrigerant and the second actual temperature of the storage liquid.

[0077] In some implementations, a first temperature sensor is installed inside the inner liner 12. This first temperature sensor monitors the actual temperature of the refrigerant in real time and records this temperature value as the first actual temperature T1. A second temperature sensor is installed inside the storage container 5. This second temperature sensor monitors the actual temperature of the storage liquid in real time and records this temperature value as the second actual temperature T2. Both the first and second temperature sensors are electrically connected to the control module, transmitting the detected temperature signals to the control module in real time.

[0078] S2 controls the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature; the working modes include: single refrigerant circulation mode, single storage liquid circulation mode and dual liquid circulation mode.

[0079] In the above steps, by monitoring the actual temperatures of the refrigerant and the storage liquid respectively, and based on the changes in the two actual temperatures, the refrigerator can be flexibly switched between multiple working modes, thereby achieving full-condition coverage from rapid cooling to precise temperature control, meeting the needs of diverse scenarios and the stability of the storage environment.

[0080] In the single refrigerant circulation mode, the first control valve 73 is de-energized to allow the refrigerant to flow in the first main circulation loop.

[0081] The single preservation fluid circulation mode is as follows: the second control valve 76 is de-energized so that the preservation fluid flows in the second main circulation loop.

[0082] The dual-liquid circulation mode is as follows: both the first control valve 73 and the second control valve 76 are energized so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

[0083] In single refrigerant circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the refrigerant with maximum heat exchange power. In single storage liquid circulation mode, the storage liquid flows through all heat exchange modules, cooling the storage liquid or ensuring its temperature distribution is uniform with maximum heat exchange power. In dual-liquid circulation mode, the refrigerant flows through only some heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with partial heat exchange power. The storage liquid also flows through only some heat exchange modules, maintaining its temperature with partial heat exchange power. By employing two independent circulations, the two circulations do not interfere with each other, ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0084] In step S2, "controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode according to the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" includes: S21, when the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is less than the second preset temperature, control the refrigerator to enter the single refrigerant circulation mode.

[0085] In some embodiments, when the temperature of the refrigerant is too high and the temperature of the storage liquid is within a reasonable range, only the refrigerant is driven to circulate, thereby achieving rapid cooling of the refrigerant, and the storage liquid does not need to be actively circulated.

[0086] "Controlling the refrigerator to enter single refrigerant circulation mode" includes: The first pump body 75 is turned on, the second pump body 78 is turned off, and the first control valve 73 is de-energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first main circulation loop.

[0087] In some embodiments, the flow path of the refrigerant is: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → first outlet of first control valve 73 (default path in the power-off state) → first heat exchange branch (i.e., the first heat exchange channel 712 that flows through all heat exchange modules in sequence) → inlet of inner tank 12. In this mode, the refrigerant flows through all heat exchange modules to cool the refrigerant with maximum heat exchange power. Since the second pump body 78 is in the closed state, the storage liquid does not participate in circulation, and the storage container 5 is passively cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant. This mode is suitable for the following scenarios: the refrigerant temperature is too high and needs to be cooled quickly, while the storage liquid temperature is still within the target range and does not require active circulation.

[0088] S22, when the first actual temperature is less than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, control the refrigerator to enter the single preservation liquid circulation mode.

[0089] In some embodiments, when the temperature of the refrigerant is within a reasonable range and the temperature of the storage liquid is too high, only the storage liquid is driven to circulate, thereby achieving rapid cooling of the storage liquid, without the need for active circulation of the refrigerant.

[0090] "Controlling the refrigerator to enter single-preservation liquid circulation mode" includes: The first pump body 75 is shut down, the second pump body 78 is turned on, and the second control valve 76 is de-energized, so that the preservation liquid flows in the second main circulation loop.

[0091] In some embodiments, the flow path of the storage liquid is as follows: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the first part of the heat exchange module → inlet of the second control valve 76 → first outlet of the second control valve 76 (default path in the power-off state) → second heat exchange channel 713 of the second part of the heat exchange module (i.e., flowing through the second heat exchange channels 713 of all heat exchange modules in sequence) → inlet of storage container 5. In this mode, the storage liquid flows through all heat exchange modules to cool the storage liquid or make its temperature distribution uniform with maximum heat exchange power. Since the first pump body 75 is in the closed state, the refrigerant does not participate in active circulation and passively maintains the temperature by relying on heat exchange with the storage container 5. This mode is suitable for the following scenarios: the storage liquid temperature is too high and needs to be cooled quickly, while the refrigerant temperature is still within the target range and does not require active circulation.

[0092] S23, when the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, control the refrigerator to enter the dual liquid circulation mode.

[0093] In some embodiments, when the temperatures of both the refrigerant and the storage liquid are too high, the refrigerant and the storage liquid are simultaneously driven to circulate, thereby achieving rapid cooling of the refrigerant and the storage liquid respectively.

[0094] "Controlling the refrigerator to enter dual-liquid circulation mode" includes: The first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 are both turned on, and the first control valve 73 and the second control valve 76 are both energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

[0095] In some embodiments, the refrigerant flow path is as follows: outlet of inner tank 12 → inlet of first control valve 73 → second outlet of first control valve 73 (switching path in energized state) → first branch pipe 74 → first heat exchange channel 712 of the second part → inlet of inner tank 12. In this mode, the refrigerant only flows through a portion of the heat exchange module to maintain the refrigerant temperature with a portion of the heat exchange power.

[0096] The flow path of the storage liquid is as follows: outlet of storage container 5 → second heat exchange channel 713 of the first part of the heat exchange module → inlet of second control valve 76 → second outlet of second control valve 76 (switching path in energized state) → second branch pipe 77 → inlet of storage container 5. In this mode, the storage liquid only flows through a portion of the heat exchange module, maintaining the storage liquid temperature with a portion of the heat exchange power. This mode is suitable for the following scenarios: both the refrigerant and storage liquid temperatures are too high and cooling is required. In this mode, by employing two independent circulations, the two circulations do not interfere with each other, ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0097] The operating mode also includes a standby mode; the control method of the present invention also includes: When the first actual temperature is lower than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is lower than the second preset temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter standby mode.

[0098] "Controlling the refrigerator to enter standby mode" includes: The first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 are both shut down, as are the refrigeration unit 6 and the heat dissipation unit 8.

[0099] In some embodiments, when the temperatures of both the refrigerant and the storage liquid are within a reasonable range, both the first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 are shut down, and neither the refrigerant nor the storage liquid undergoes active circulation. The controller sends a shutdown command to the refrigeration unit 6 and the cooling unit 8, causing them to stop operating. At this time, the refrigeration unit 6 no longer actively cools the refrigerant, and correspondingly, the cooling unit 8 no longer actively dissipates heat from the refrigeration unit 6 to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

[0100] The control method of the present invention further includes: Before the storage container 5 is placed into the inner liner 12, the refrigeration unit 6, the heat dissipation unit 8, and the first pump body 75 are all turned on.

[0101] In some embodiments, before the user places the storage container 5 containing the biological sample into the inner liner 12, the controller first controls the refrigeration unit 6 to start, and simultaneously controls the cooling unit 8 and the first pump 75 to turn on. The refrigeration unit 6 begins to actively cool the refrigerant in the inner liner 12, and the first pump 75 drives the refrigerant to circulate in the first main circulation loop, so that the temperature of the refrigerant quickly drops to the preset target temperature range. The cooling unit 8 actively dissipates heat from the refrigeration unit 6 to ensure the cooling effect.

[0102] Furthermore, the operating power of the first heat dissipation module 81 and the second heat dissipation module 82 is positively correlated with the cooling power of their corresponding first cooling module 61 and second cooling module 62. This "positive correlation" means that the higher the current operating power of the semiconductor cooling unit, the higher the operating power of the heat dissipation unit; conversely, the lower the current operating power of the semiconductor cooling unit, the lower the operating power of the heat dissipation unit. The specific functional relationship or gear mapping table for this "positive correlation" can be pre-stored in the controller's memory for use during runtime.

[0103] In some embodiments, in order to prevent the first pump body 75 from frequently starting and stopping near the target temperature point, which affects its service life, the first preset temperature is preferably set as a temperature interval [T1min, T1max], wherein T1min is the lower limit value of the target temperature of the cooling liquid, and T1max is the upper limit value of the target temperature of the cooling liquid. When the first actual temperature T1 is higher than the upper limit value T1max of the first preset temperature interval (i.e., T1>T1max), the controller controls the first pump body 75 to start, driving the cooling liquid to circulate, so as to reduce the temperature of the cooling liquid in the inner tank 12. When the first actual temperature T1 is lower than the lower limit value T1min of the first preset temperature interval (i.e., T1<T1min), the controller controls the first pump body 75 to shut down, stopping the circulation of the cooling liquid, so as to avoid overcooling. When the first actual temperature T1 is within the first preset temperature interval (i.e., T1min≤T1≤T1max), the controller controls the first pump body 75 to maintain the current state (started or shut down), so as to keep the temperature of the cooling liquid stable.

[0104] In some embodiments, in order to prevent the second pump body 78 from frequently starting and stopping near the target temperature point, which affects its service life, the second preset temperature is preferably set as a temperature interval [T2min, T2max], wherein T2min is the lower limit value of the target temperature of the preservation solution, and T2max is the upper limit value of the target temperature of the preservation solution. When the second actual temperature T2 is higher than the upper limit value T2max of the second preset temperature interval (i.e., T2>T2max), the controller controls the second pump body 78 to start, driving the preservation solution to circulate, so as to reduce the temperature of the preservation solution in the inner tank 12. When the second actual temperature T2 is lower than the lower limit value T2min of the second preset temperature interval (i.e., T2<T2min), the controller controls the second pump body 78 to shut down, stopping the circulation of the preservation solution, so as to avoid overcooling. When the second actual temperature T2 is within the second preset temperature interval (i.e., T2min≤T2≤T2max), the control module controls the second pump body 78 to maintain the current state (started or shut down), so as to keep the temperature of the preservation solution stable.

[0105] As Figure 13 shown, the detailed steps of the control method for the refrigerator of the present invention are: S101, acquiring a first actual temperature of the cooling liquid and a second actual temperature of the preservation solution; when T1>T1max and T2<T2min, step S102 is executed; when T1<T1min and T2>T2max, step S104 is executed; when T1>T1max and T2>T2max, step S106 is executed; when T1<T1min and T2<T2min, step S108 is executed; S102, controlling the refrigerator to enter the single cooling liquid circulation mode; S103, control the first pump body 75 to open, the second pump body 78 to close, and the first control valve 73 to be de-energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first main circulation loop; S104 controls the refrigerator to enter single preservation liquid circulation mode; S105, control the first pump body 75 to close, the second pump body 78 to open, and the second control valve 76 to de-energize, so that the preservation liquid flows in the second main circulation loop; S106 controls the refrigerator to enter dual-liquid circulation mode; S107, both the first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 are opened, and both the first control valve 73 and the second control valve 76 are energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop. S108 controls the refrigerator to enter standby mode; S109, control the first pump body 75 and the second pump body 78 to shut down, and the refrigeration unit 6 and the heat dissipation unit 8 to shut down.

[0106] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerated box includes a box body and a storage container; The preservation container is used to store biological samples, and the preservation container is filled with preservation solution; The storage container is disposed inside the box, and the box is filled with refrigerant; The refrigerated box also includes a heat exchange unit; The heat exchange unit includes multiple heat exchange modules, and each heat exchange module includes a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel. The refrigerant flows through the first heat exchange channel, and the storage liquid flows through the second heat exchange channel. The number of the multiple heat exchange modules is N; the first heat exchange channels of the N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form a first heat exchange branch; the second heat exchange channels of the N heat exchange modules are connected in series to form a second heat exchange branch. The heat exchange unit also includes a first control valve and a second control valve. When the first control valve is de-energized, the housing and the first heat exchange branch are connected to each other to form a first main circulation loop. When the second control valve is de-energized, the storage container and the second heat exchange branch are connected to each other to form a second main circulation loop. The N heat exchange modules comprise a first part and a second part, wherein the first part comprises the first NM heat exchange modules and the second part comprises M heat exchange modules; wherein M < N; The heat exchanger unit also includes a first branch pipeline. When the first control valve is energized, the housing, the first branch pipeline, and the first heat exchange flow channel of one of the first part and the second part are interconnected to form a first branch circulation loop. The heat exchanger unit also includes a second branch pipeline. When the second control valve is energized, the storage container, the second branch pipeline, and the second heat exchange channel of the other of the first part and the second part are interconnected to form a second branch circulation loop. The control method includes: Obtain the first actual temperature of the refrigerant and the second actual temperature of the storage liquid; Based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter the corresponding working mode; The operating modes include: single refrigerant circulation mode, single storage liquid circulation mode, and dual liquid circulation mode; The single refrigerant circulation mode is as follows: the first control valve is de-energized to allow the refrigerant to flow in the first main circulation loop; The single preservation fluid circulation mode is as follows: the second control valve is de-energized to allow the preservation fluid to flow in the second main circulation loop; The dual-liquid circulation mode is as follows: both the first control valve and the second control valve are energized so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

2. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, "Controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" includes: When the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, and the second actual temperature is less than the second preset temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter a single refrigerant circulation mode.

3. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, "Controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" also includes: When the first actual temperature is less than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter the single preservation liquid circulation mode.

4. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, "Controlling the refrigerator to enter the corresponding working mode based on the first actual temperature and the second actual temperature" also includes: When the first actual temperature is greater than or equal to the first preset temperature, and the second actual temperature is greater than or equal to the second preset temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter the dual-liquid circulation mode.

5. The control method for a refrigerator according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, Each heat exchange module further includes a heat exchange body, wherein the first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are respectively disposed within the heat exchange body and exchange heat with the heat exchange body; The heat exchange unit also includes a first pump body, which can drive the refrigerant to flow in the first main circulation loop; The heat exchange unit also includes a second pump body, which can drive the storage liquid to flow in the second main circulation loop; "Controlling the refrigerator to enter single refrigerant circulation mode" includes: The first pump body is turned on, the second pump body is turned off, and the first control valve is de-energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first main circulation loop; and / or "Controlling the refrigerator to enter single-preservation liquid circulation mode" includes: The first pump body is shut down, the second pump body is turned on, and the second control valve is de-energized, so that the preservation liquid flows in the second main circulation loop.

6. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first pump body can also drive the refrigerant to flow in the first branch circulation loop; The second pump body can also drive the preservation liquid to flow in the second branch circulation loop; "Controlling the refrigerator to enter dual-liquid circulation mode" includes: Both the first pump body and the second pump body are turned on, and both the first control valve and the second control valve are energized, so that the refrigerant flows in the first branch circulation loop and the storage liquid flows in the second branch circulation loop.

7. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The operating mode also includes a standby mode; The control method further includes: When the first actual temperature is lower than the first preset temperature and the second actual temperature is lower than the second preset temperature, the refrigerator is controlled to enter standby mode.

8. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The refrigerator also includes a refrigeration unit and a heat dissipation unit. The refrigeration unit exchanges heat with the heat exchange unit, and the heat dissipation unit can dissipate heat from the refrigeration unit. "Controlling the refrigerator to enter standby mode" includes: The first pump body and the second pump body are both shut down, as are the refrigeration unit and the heat dissipation unit.

9. The control method for a refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, The control method further includes: Before the storage container is placed into the box, the refrigeration unit, the heat dissipation unit, and the first pump are all turned on.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes a controller configured to perform the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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