Refrigerator

Abstract

The refrigerator comprises a cabinet, a door body, a compressor, a condenser, a three-way valve, a refrigerating chamber evaporator, a freezing chamber evaporator, a refrigerating chamber fan, a freezing chamber fan, an ion generating device and a controller. The refrigerating chamber evaporator and the freezing chamber evaporator are connected in parallel. The refrigerating chamber fan sucks in first cooling air cooled by the refrigerating chamber evaporator and sends the first cooling air into a refrigerating chamber via a refrigerating chamber air passage. The freezing chamber fan sucks in second cooling air cooled by the freezing chamber evaporator and sends the second cooling air into a freezing chamber via a freezing chamber air passage. The ion generating device is arranged in the refrigerating chamber and located outside the refrigerating chamber air passage. The controller controls the actions of the compressor, the three-way valve, the refrigerating chamber fan, the freezing chamber fan and the ion generating device. A return air inlet for returning the first cooling air to the refrigerating chamber evaporator is arranged at the bottom of a compartment in which the refrigerating chamber is located. According to the present application, a refrigerator capable of effectively improving the sterilization and odor removal effects of the whole compartment can be provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] For a long time, it has been known that technology uses ion wind to charge dust and other particles in the air, which are then adsorbed and collected to purify the air and thus achieve a preservation function. However, this technology mainly purifies the air in the refrigerator and cannot actively sterilize the food inside the refrigerator.

[0003] To achieve the function of actively sterilizing food inside the refrigerator compartment, the applicant has proposed a technology for ion generating devices, such as nano-ion generators, installed inside the refrigerator. The nano-ion generator uses semiconductor refrigeration to lower the surface temperature of the cooling end to approximately -8°C, causing moisture inside the compartment to condense into water droplets. A high-voltage current is passed through a metal plate installed below the semiconductor cooling end, causing the condensed water on the surface of the cooling end to vibrate at high frequency, generating atomization and ionizing into nano-water ions. The nano-water ions generated by the nano-ion generator kill bacteria and mold inside the refrigerator compartment, inhibiting food spoilage and removing odors, thus achieving a preservation effect.

[0004] However, even with the aforementioned technologies, there is still room for improvement in the overall sterilization and odor removal effects within the refrigerator compartment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The inventors conducted in-depth research on the aforementioned technologies and discovered that the following technical problems cause unstable spraying, weak spraying effect under specific conditions, and reduced generation of nano-water ions, thus affecting the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment: (1) Nano-water ions have weak stability and a half-life of 10 minutes. At the same time, when nano-water ions pass through the evaporator at a low temperature, they are easily adsorbed on the surface of the evaporator. Therefore, the air circulation speed in the compartment should not be too fast. However, under normal refrigeration conditions, due to the high air speed, the residence time of nano-water ions in the refrigeration compartment is short and the diffusion is weak; (2) Because the nano-water ion generating device is installed at a temperature of In the lower cold storage room air duct (below 2℃, for example, average temperature -1℃), the overall temperature of the nano-ion generator is low. The optimal temperature of the nano-ion generator is 2-8℃. Therefore, the condensed water on the surface of the cooling end of the nano-ion generator is easily frozen. After freezing, the nano-ion generator cannot operate normally and cannot generate enough nano-water ions, resulting in poor ion generation effect. (3) The control method of the nano-ion generator is a fixed mode and a fixed time period (for example, condensation a minutes → thawing b seconds → spraying c minutes). The condensation time is fixed. When the humidity in the room is low, the condensation time is insufficient and the semiconductor surface cannot condense enough water. The amount of water affects the spray and causes poor spraying. When the humidity in the room is high, the condensation time is too long and the semiconductor surface is excessively condensed, which will also cause freezing in the second half of the spraying. The effective spraying time is reduced and the spraying is poor, thus affecting the sterilization effect; (4) The nano-ion generating device is installed in the left air duct of the air duct of the second section of the refrigerator compartment, and the air duct insulation foam is set at the front. The nano-water ions enter the second section of the refrigerator compartment through the ventilation port on one side and the left air vent of the second section of the refrigerator compartment. This results in the low concentration of nano-water ions in the first section of the refrigerator compartment, causing uneven ion distribution in the room; (5) The cold water in the refrigeration cycle system The freezer compartment evaporator and the refrigerator compartment evaporator are connected in series and parallel (i.e., the input end of the refrigerator compartment evaporator is connected to one output end of the three-way valve, the input end of the freezer compartment evaporator is connected to the other output end of the three-way valve, the output end of the refrigerator compartment evaporator is connected to the input end of the freezer compartment evaporator, and the output end of the freezer compartment evaporator is connected to the compressor). When the refrigerator compartment is cooling, the freezer compartment is also cooling. In order to prevent the freezer compartment evaporator temperature from being too high, the difference in the capillary pressure reduction between the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment is generally not large. Therefore, the temperature of the refrigerator compartment evaporator is low, which makes the overall temperature of the nano-ion generating device low. The semiconductor cooling end is easily frozen, and the effective time of condensation spray is reduced, thus affecting the sterilization effect.

[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a refrigerator that can effectively improve the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the refrigerator of the present invention includes a cabinet, a door, a compressor, a condenser, a three-way valve, a refrigerator compartment evaporator, a freezer compartment evaporator, a refrigerator compartment fan, a freezer compartment fan, an ion generating device, and a controller. The input end of the three-way valve is connected to the condenser. The refrigerator compartment evaporator and the freezer compartment evaporator are connected with their input ends connected to one output end of the three-way valve, and the input end of the freezer compartment evaporator is connected to the other output end of the three-way valve. The output end of the refrigerator compartment evaporator is connected to the compressor. The connection method between the output end of the freezer compartment evaporator and the compressor is not specified. The refrigerator compartment fan draws in the first cooling gas cooled by the refrigerator compartment evaporator and sends it into the refrigerator compartment via the refrigerator compartment air duct. The freezer compartment fan draws in the second cooling gas cooled by the freezer compartment evaporator and sends it into the freezer compartment via the freezer compartment air duct. The ion generating device is located inside the refrigerator compartment and outside the refrigerator compartment air duct. The controller controls the operation of the compressor, the three-way valve, the refrigerator compartment fan, the freezer compartment fan, and the ion generating device. At the bottom of the compartment where the refrigerator compartment is located, there is a return air vent for the first cooling gas to return to the refrigerator compartment evaporator. By placing the ion generator within the compartment and outside the airflow path, the average temperature around the ion generator is high with minimal fluctuations, ensuring the ion generator operates at a suitable temperature and preventing the semiconductor cooling end from freezing. This promotes normal operation of the ion generator, thus improving ion generation efficiency. Furthermore, the return air vent is located at the bottom of the compartment, resulting in an airflow circulation pattern of upper exhaust and lower return, allowing for even ion diffusion within the compartment and improving ion uniformity. Additionally, the parallel connection of the refrigerator and freezer evaporators, with the higher temperature in the refrigerator evaporator and higher humidity within the compartment, further enhances ion generation. Therefore, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect within the refrigerator compartment is effectively improved.

[0008] Furthermore, in the refrigerator described above, the refrigerator compartment can be divided into multiple sections by partitions. The ion generating device is located in the uppermost first section of the refrigerator compartment, spaced a predetermined distance from the top vent where the first cooling gas enters the first section. By placing the ion generating device in the uppermost first section of the refrigerator compartment at a predetermined distance from the top vent, direct cold air blowing towards the ion generating device can be avoided, preventing a drop in ambient temperature and further improving the ion generation effect. Moreover, the ion concentration in the first section of the refrigerator compartment is increased. Therefore, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment can be further improved effectively.

[0009] Furthermore, in the refrigerator described above, a cover plate may be provided in front of the ion generating device, and multiple through-holes may be formed on the portions of the cover plate located on both sides of the top air vent when viewed from the front of the refrigerator. By providing a cover plate at the front and forming through-holes on both sides of the cover plate as circulation micro-holes, ions can be thoroughly mixed with the cooling gas introduced from the top air vent and then blown into the compartment through the circulation micro-holes. This ensures that ions are evenly blown into the compartment, guaranteeing overall ion uniformity. Moreover, by providing circulation micro-holes, the airflow velocity is reduced, and the ion retention time in the compartment is prolonged, which is also beneficial for sterilization within the compartment. Therefore, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment can be further effectively improved.

[0010] Furthermore, in the refrigerator described above, the ion generating device may include a housing. Inside the housing, a power supply board, a semiconductor cooling terminal for generating condensation water on the surface, and a high-voltage ionization terminal for atomizing the condensation water to ionize nano-water ions are disposed. A vent is formed in the housing to allow the sprayed nano-water ions to enter the refrigerator compartment. The controller sets the condensation time (the time for condensation water generation) as a variable and determines the condensation time based on the set temperature and humidity of the refrigerator compartment before the ion generating device is activated. By setting the condensation time as a variable and determining it based on the set temperature and humidity of the refrigerator compartment, poor spraying caused by insufficient or excessive condensation can be avoided, thereby further improving the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment.

[0011] Furthermore, in the refrigerator according to the present invention described above, the controller may also include a storage unit that pre-stores a lookup table representing the relationship between humidity and dew time at each set temperature, and the controller determines the dew time based on the lookup table. Thus, by pre-storing in the controller a lookup table representing the relationship between humidity and dew time at each set temperature, which was first obtained experimentally by the inventors, the dew time can be quickly determined based on the lookup table.

[0012] Furthermore, in the refrigerator described above, the refrigerator may also include a humidity sensor located near the ion generating device, wherein the humidity is a weighted average of the values ​​detected by the humidity sensor during the previous operating cycle of the compressor before the ion generating device is started. Since instantaneous humidity fluctuates significantly, by setting the humidity as the weighted average of the values ​​detected by the humidity sensor during the previous operating cycle of the compressor before the ion generating device is started, the humidity value can be accurately obtained, thereby enabling accurate determination of the condensation time.

[0013] Alternatively, in the refrigerator described above, the controller may perform a defrosting operation on the ion generating device at predetermined intervals during the spraying of the nano-water ions. By performing a defrosting operation on the ion generating device at predetermined intervals during the spraying of the nano-water ions, undesirable spraying caused by freezing can be further reduced.

[0014] Alternatively, in the refrigerator described above, the controller can control the ion generating device to operate in conjunction with the cooling of the refrigerator compartment or the shutdown of the compressor, according to the set temperature, using different linkage methods. By employing different linkage methods for the ion generating device based on the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment, optimal temperature and humidity conditions can be ensured during ion generation, and effective spray time can be guaranteed at different set temperatures within the refrigerator compartment. This further enhances the overall sterilization and odor removal effect within the refrigerator compartment.

[0015] Alternatively, in the refrigerator of the present invention described above, when the set temperature is within a first temperature range, the ion generating device may start operating after the refrigeration of the refrigerator compartment has ended, and sequentially perform condensation, first defrosting, first spraying, second defrosting, and second spraying actions. When the set temperature is within a second temperature range higher than the first temperature range, the ion generating device may start operating after the compressor has started running from startup to shutdown, and sequentially perform condensation, first defrosting, first spraying, second defrosting, and second spraying actions. In this way, by having the ion generating device start operating after the refrigeration of the refrigerator compartment has finished when the set temperature is within the first temperature range (i.e., when the set temperature is low), and sequentially performing the condensation action, the first defrosting action, the first spraying action, the second defrosting action, and the second spraying action, the optimal temperature and humidity for ion generation can be ensured. Moreover, by having the ion generating device start operating after the compressor has stopped running from the start-up point when the set temperature is within the second temperature range higher than the first temperature range (i.e., when the set temperature is medium to high), and sequentially performing the condensation action, the first defrosting action, the first spraying action, the second defrosting action, and the second spraying action, the forced diffusion time of ions can be increased under the condition of ensuring the optimal temperature and humidity for ion generation.

[0016] Alternatively, in the refrigerator described above, the first temperature range may be 1 to 2°C, and the second temperature range may be 3 to 7°C.

[0017] According to the present invention, a refrigerator can be provided that can effectively improve the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a front view showing the general structure of the refrigerator according to this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a side view showing the general structure of the refrigerator according to this embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the refrigeration cycle system involved in this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the ion generating device involved in this embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the lookup table involved in this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, identical or equivalent elements are labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, positional relationships such as up, down, left, and right are not specifically described, but are based on the positional relationships shown in the drawings. Moreover, the scale of the drawings is not limited to the scale shown in the illustrations, except for those used in the actual drawings.

[0025] Furthermore, it should be understood that the embodiments listed in this specification are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. Rather, as those skilled in the art will understand, the invention includes various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

[0026] In this specification, it should be understood that terms such as “comprising,” “including,” and “having” mean the presence of features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a front view showing the general structure of the refrigerator according to this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a side view showing the general structure of the refrigerator according to this embodiment. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the refrigeration cycle system involved in this embodiment. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the ion generating device involved in this embodiment.

[0028] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerator 1 involved in this embodiment includes a cabinet 10, a door 20, a compressor 30, a refrigerator compartment fan 50, a nano-ion generating device 60 (an example of an ion generating device), a freezer compartment fan 80, and a controller (not shown).

[0029] In addition, refrigerator 1 includes a refrigeration cycle system. This refrigeration cycle system is as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the system includes a compressor 30, a condenser 31, a three-way valve 32, a refrigerator compartment evaporator 40, and a freezer compartment evaporator 70. The input end of the condenser 31 is connected to the output end of the compressor 30. The input end of the three-way valve 32 is connected to the output end of the condenser 31. The refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 and the freezer compartment evaporator 70 are connected in parallel with the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 connected to one output end of the three-way valve 32 via a refrigerator compartment capillary tube 33, and the freezer compartment evaporator 70 connected to the other output end of the three-way valve 32 via a freezer compartment capillary tube 34. The output end of the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 is connected to the compressor 30, and the output end of the freezer compartment evaporator 70 is connected to the compressor 30.

[0030] In addition, the refrigerator 1 includes a first compartment S1, a second compartment S2 located below the first compartment S1, and a defrost water evaporation chamber S3 located at the bottom of the refrigerator 1.

[0031] In this embodiment, the cabinet 10 includes an upper cabinet 101, a middle cabinet 102, and a lower cabinet 103. The door 20 includes an upper door 201 and a lower door 202. Thus, the upper cabinet 101, the middle cabinet 102, and the upper door 201 constitute a first compartment S1, and the lower cabinet 103 and the lower door 202 constitute a second compartment S2. Here, the first compartment S1 includes a refrigerator compartment S11, a constant temperature compartment S12 located below the refrigerator compartment S11, and a variable temperature compartment S13 located below the constant temperature compartment S12, and the second compartment S2 is a freezer compartment. However, the first compartment only needs to include at least the refrigerator compartment, and may not include at least one of the constant temperature compartment and the variable temperature compartment.

[0032] In addition, the compressor 30 is located at the top of the refrigerator 1. However, it is not limited to this; the compressor 30 may also be located at the bottom of the refrigerator 1.

[0033] The refrigerator compartment fan 50 draws in the first cooling gas cooled by the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 and sends it into the refrigerator compartment S11 through the refrigerator compartment air passage P1. At the bottom of the first compartment S1, there is a return air vent P2 for the first cooling gas to return to the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40. In this way, the first cooling gas cooled by the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40, i.e., low-temperature air, is drawn in by the refrigerator compartment fan 50, blown into the first compartment S1, including the refrigerator compartment S11, through the refrigerator compartment air passage P1 from the top air vent P4, the middle air vent, etc. After cooling the first compartment S1, it returns to the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 through the return air vent P2, thus forming a refrigerator air passage circulation.

[0034] In addition, heat-insulating foam INS is installed in the air duct P1 of the refrigerator compartment.

[0035] The freezer fan 80 draws in the second cooling gas cooled by the freezer evaporator 70 and sends it to the freezer S2 via the freezer air passage P3.

[0036] The nano-ion generating device 60 is a device for generating so-called nano-ion, or nano-water ion. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the nano-ion generator 60 is installed inside the refrigerator compartment S11 and located outside the air duct P1 of the refrigerator compartment. Specifically, as... Figure 1 As shown, the nano-ion generating device 60 is located on the left side of the refrigerator compartment S11 in the width direction. Furthermore, in addition to killing bacteria and mold, the nano-water ions also have the effect of removing odors.

[0037] As for the specific structure of the nano-ion generating device 60, such as Figure 4 As shown, the nano-ion generating device 60 includes a housing 601. Inside the housing 601 are a power supply board 602, a semiconductor cooling end 603 for generating condensation water on the surface, and a high-voltage ionization end 604 for atomizing the condensation water to ionize nano-water ions. Additionally, a vent 605 is formed in the housing 601 to allow the sprayed nano-water ions to enter the cold storage chamber S11. Thus, when the nano-ion generating device 60 is working, when the semiconductor cooling end 603 is energized (low-voltage start), condensation water will be generated on the working surface of the semiconductor cooling end 603. When the high-voltage ionization end 604 is energized (high-voltage start), the condensation water will be ionized into nano-water ions, which will diffuse through the vent 605. When the refrigerator fan 50 is running, the low-temperature air is blown out through the top vent P4 and dispersed by the cover plate 90. A portion of the air flows through the vent 605, carrying out the nano-water ions, which are then blown into the refrigerator compartment S11 through the circulating micropores. After being sterilized in the refrigerator compartment S11, the nano-water ions flow back to the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40.

[0038] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the cold storage compartment S11 is divided into three cold storage spaces by two partitions: the first cold storage space S111 at the top, the third cold storage space S113 at the bottom, and the second cold storage space S112 located between the first cold storage space S111 and the third cold storage space S113.

[0039] The nano-ion generating device 60 is located in the first refrigerated space S111 and is spaced at a predetermined distance from the top air vent P4 into which the first cooling gas is sent into the first refrigerated space S111.

[0040] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, a cover plate 90 is provided in front of the nano-ion generating device 60. Additionally, as... Figure 1 As shown, multiple through microholes 901 are formed on both sides of the top air vent P4 in the cover plate 90 when viewed from the front of the refrigerator 1.

[0041] In this embodiment, the controller controls the operation of the compressor 30, the three-way valve 32, the refrigerator compartment fan 50, the freezer compartment fan 80, and the nano-ion generator 60. Furthermore, the controller sets the condensation time, which is the time for condensate to form, as a variable, and determines the condensation time based on the set temperature and humidity of the refrigerator compartment S11 before the nano-ion generator 60 is activated. Here, the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is typically set by the user and is within the range of 1 to 7°C. However, it is not limited to this; the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 can be any range.

[0042] In addition, the controller may also include a storage unit that pre-stores a lookup table representing the relationship between humidity and condensation time at each set temperature.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the lookup table involved in this embodiment. For example... Figure 5 As shown, in the lookup table involved in this embodiment, the inventors pre-determined, through experiments, a lookup table representing the relationship between humidity and condensation time, according to the set temperatures of the refrigerator compartment S11 being 1°C, 2°C, 3°C, 4°C, 5°C, 6°C, and 7°C, and the obtained lookup table was pre-stored in the storage unit of the controller. Specifically, according to Figure 5 It can be seen that the set temperature range of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 1–7℃, and the humidity range is 35–100%. Under these conditions, the condensation time ranges from 5 to 30 minutes. That is, when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 1℃ and the humidity is 45–100%, the condensation time is 11–30 minutes; when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 2℃ and the humidity is 40–100%, the condensation time is 7–30 minutes; when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 3℃ and the humidity is 35–100%, the condensation time is 6–30 minutes; and when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 4℃ and the humidity is 35%, the condensation time is 35%. Under conditions of ~100% humidity, the condensation time is 5 to 27.5 minutes; when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 5°C and the humidity is 35 to 100%, the condensation time is 5 to 25 minutes; when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 6°C and the humidity is 35 to 100%, the condensation time is 5 to 22.5 minutes; and when the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is 7°C and the humidity is 35 to 100%, the condensation time is 5 to 20 minutes. In these cases, the controller determines the condensation time based on a lookup table. Thus, by pre-storing in the controller's storage unit a lookup table representing the relationship between humidity and condensation time at each set temperature, which was first obtained experimentally by the inventors, the condensation time can be quickly determined based on the lookup table.

[0044] In addition, the refrigerator 1 also includes a humidity sensor 100 located near the nano-ion generator 60. The controller receives the value detected by the humidity sensor 100 and sets the humidity of the refrigerator compartment S11 as the weighted average of the values ​​detected by the humidity sensor 100 during the previous operating cycle of the compressor 30 before the nano-ion generator 60 was started. Since the instantaneous humidity fluctuates greatly, by setting the humidity as the weighted average of the values ​​detected by the humidity sensor during the previous operating cycle of the compressor before the ion generator was started, the humidity value can be accurately obtained, and thus the condensation time can be accurately determined.

[0045] In addition, during the spraying of nano-water ions, the controller thaws the nano-ion generator 60 at predetermined intervals. By thawing the ion generator at these intervals during the spraying process, undesirable spraying caused by freezing can be further reduced.

[0046] Furthermore, the controller controls the operation of the Nanoe ion generator 60 in different linkage modes with the cooling of the refrigerator compartment S11 or the shutdown of the compressor 30, based on the set temperature. By using different linkage modes for the ion generator's operation according to the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment, optimal temperature and humidity conditions are ensured during ion generation, and effective spray time is guaranteed at different set temperatures within the refrigerator compartment. This further enhances the overall sterilization and odor removal effect within the refrigerator compartment.

[0047] Specifically, the cooling processes of the refrigerator compartment S11 and the freezer compartment S2 will be explained first. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is greater than or equal to the refrigerator compartment opening temperature, the refrigerator compartment S11 begins to cool. The three-way valve 32 is opened to the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40, the freezer compartment fan 80 is turned off, the refrigerator compartment fan 50 runs at high speed for a specified time t1, and the compressor 30 runs at low speed. When the temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 reaches the refrigerator compartment shutdown temperature, the cooling of the refrigerator compartment S11 ends, and the freezer compartment S2 begins to cool. At this time, the three-way valve 32 is opened to the freezer compartment evaporator 700, and the freezer compartment fan 80 turns off. Fan 80 operates at high speed, refrigerator compartment fan 50 operates at low speed for a specified time t2 and then shuts off, compressor 30 operates at high speed; when the temperature of freezer compartment S2 reaches the freezer compartment shutdown temperature, three-way valve 32 is opened to the evaporator 40 side of refrigerator compartment, freezer compartment fan 80 shuts off, refrigerator compartment fan 50 operates at low speed for a specified time t3 and then shuts off, compressor 30 shuts off; after compressor 30 stops for a specified time for protection, the above-mentioned cooling of refrigerator compartment S11 and cooling of freezer compartment S2 are repeated.

[0048] When the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is within the first temperature range (e.g., 1-2°C), the nano-ion generating device 60 starts operating after the refrigerator compartment S11 finishes cooling (i.e., at the time when the temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 reaches the refrigerator compartment shutdown temperature). The nano-ion generating device 60 is activated at low pressure and deactivated at high pressure for a predetermined time to induce condensation. Then, the nano-ion generating device 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined time to induce a first defrosting action. Next, the nano-ion generating device 60 is activated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined first spraying action. Then, the nano-ion generating device 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined second defrosting action. Next, the nano-ion generating device 60 is activated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined second spraying action. Finally, the nano-ion generating device 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures, ending the operation of the nano-ion generating device 60. In the first and second spray actions, the refrigerator compartment fan 50 operates at low speed for a predetermined time t3, as described above, thereby forcing ions to diffuse within that predetermined time t3. Therefore, the predetermined time t3 is also referred to as the forced ion diffusion time when the refrigerator compartment is set to a low temperature.

[0049] When the set temperature of the refrigerator compartment S11 is within a second temperature range (e.g., 3-7°C) higher than the first temperature range, the nano-ion generator 60 starts operating after the compressor 30 starts running and stops. The nano-ion generator 60 is activated at low pressure and deactivated at high pressure for a predetermined time to induce condensation. Then, the nano-ion generator 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined time to induce a first defrosting action. Next, the nano-ion generator 60 is activated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined spraying action. Then, the nano-ion generator 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined second defrosting action. Next, the nano-ion generator 60 is activated at both low and high pressures for a predetermined second spraying action. Finally, the nano-ion generator 60 is deactivated at both low and high pressures, ending the operation of the nano-ion generator 60. In the first and second spray actions, ions are forced to diffuse within a specified time t1 by the refrigerator fan 50 operating at high speed for a specified time t2, as described above. Therefore, the specified time t1+t2 is also called the forced ion diffusion time when the refrigerator compartment is set to a medium-high temperature.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the refrigerator compartment evaporator 40 and the freezer compartment evaporator 70 are installed independently. This allows for an increase in the temperature of the gas cooled by the refrigerator compartment evaporator, which in turn further increases the temperature and humidity around the nano-ion generator in the first compartment, ensuring the ion generator operates at a more suitable temperature and humidity, thereby further enhancing the ion generation effect. Consequently, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect within the refrigerator compartment can be further improved more effectively.

[0051] In this embodiment, the nano-ion generator is positioned within the compartment and outside the air duct. This ensures a high average temperature and minimal fluctuation around the nano-ion generator, maintaining it at a suitable temperature and preventing the semiconductor cooling end from freezing. This promotes normal operation of the ion generator, thereby improving ion generation efficiency. Furthermore, the return air vent is located at the bottom of the compartment, resulting in an airflow pattern of upper exhaust and lower return. This allows for uniform ion diffusion within the compartment, improving ion uniformity. Additionally, the parallel connection of the refrigerator compartment evaporator and the freezer compartment evaporator, with the higher temperature in the refrigerator compartment and higher humidity within the compartment, further enhances ion generation. Therefore, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect within the refrigerator compartment is effectively improved.

[0052] Furthermore, by placing the ion generator in the uppermost first section of the refrigerator compartment at a predetermined distance from the top air vent, the direct blowing of cold air onto the ion generator, which would lower the surrounding temperature, is prevented, thus further enhancing the ion generation effect. Moreover, the ion concentration within the first section of the refrigerator compartment is increased. This, in turn, effectively improves the overall sterilization and odor removal efficiency of the refrigerator compartment.

[0053] Furthermore, by providing a cover plate at the front and forming through-holes on both sides of the cover plate as circulation micro-holes, ions can be fully mixed with the cooling gas introduced from the top air vent and then blown into the compartment through the circulation micro-holes. This ensures that ions are evenly distributed throughout the compartment, guaranteeing uniform ion distribution. Moreover, by setting up circulation micro-holes, the airflow velocity is reduced, and the ions remain in the compartment for a longer period, which is also beneficial for sterilization. Therefore, the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment can be further improved effectively.

[0054] In addition, by setting the condensation time as a variable and determining the condensation time based on the set temperature and humidity inside the refrigerator compartment, it is possible to avoid poor spraying caused by insufficient or excessive condensation, thereby further improving the overall sterilization and odor removal effect inside the refrigerator compartment.

[0055] Furthermore, by having the ion generating device start operating after the refrigerator compartment finishes cooling when the set temperature is within the first temperature range (i.e., when the set temperature is low), and sequentially performing condensation, first defrosting, first spraying, second defrosting, and second spraying actions, optimal ion generation temperature and humidity can be ensured. Additionally, by having the ion generating device start operating after the compressor stops running when the set temperature is within the second temperature range higher than the first temperature range (i.e., when the set temperature is medium to high), and sequentially performing condensation, first defrosting, first spraying, second defrosting, and second spraying actions, the forced ion diffusion time (t1+t2>t3) can be increased while ensuring optimal ion generation temperature and humidity.

[0056] According to the present invention, a refrigerator can be provided that can effectively improve the overall sterilization and odor removal effect of the refrigerator compartment.

[0057] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above; however, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art can make modifications and variations to the present invention as needed without departing from its essential spirit and scope. All such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0058] For example, in the above embodiments, the refrigerator 1 is given as an example of having two compartments, a first compartment S1 and a second compartment S2. However, it is not limited to this, and the refrigerator may also include one or more compartments.

[0059] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the Nanoe ion generating device 60 is listed as an ion generating device. However, the ion generating device is not limited to the Nanoe ion generating device as long as it has the effect of killing bacteria and mold, and removing odors. It can be any device that has the effect of killing bacteria and mold, and removing odors.

[0060] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the Nanoe ion generating device 60 is described as having only one vent on one side of the high-voltage ionization end. However, the Nanoe ion generating device 60 can also have vents on both sides of the high-voltage ionization end, which serves as the ion generating end. By providing vents on both sides of the high-voltage ionization end, a micro-wind circulation can be formed on both sides of the ion generating end, increasing the diffusion rate of ions. This further improves the overall sterilization and odor removal effect inside the refrigerator compartment.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes a cabinet, a door, a compressor, a condenser, a three-way valve, an evaporator for the refrigerator compartment, an evaporator for the freezer compartment, a fan for the refrigerator compartment, a fan for the freezer compartment, an ion generator, and a controller. The input end of the three-way valve is connected to the condenser. The refrigerator compartment evaporator and the freezer compartment evaporator are connected in parallel with the refrigerator compartment evaporator's input terminal connected to one output terminal of the three-way valve, the freezer compartment evaporator's input terminal connected to the other output terminal of the three-way valve, the refrigerator compartment evaporator's output terminal connected to the compressor, and the freezer compartment evaporator's output terminal connected to the compressor. The refrigerator compartment fan draws in the first cooling gas cooled by the refrigerator compartment evaporator and sends it into the refrigerator compartment through the refrigerator compartment air duct. The freezer fan draws in the second cooling gas cooled by the freezer evaporator and sends it into the freezer through the freezer air duct. The ion generating device is located inside the refrigerator compartment and outside the air duct of the refrigerator compartment. The controller controls the operation of the compressor, the three-way valve, the refrigerator compartment fan, the freezer compartment fan, and the ion generator. At the bottom of the compartment containing the refrigeration chamber, there is a return air vent for the first cooling gas to return to the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cold storage compartment is divided into multiple cold storage spaces by partitions. The ion generating device is located in the uppermost first section of the cold storage space, and is separated from the top air vent of the first cooling gas into the first section of the cold storage space by a predetermined distance.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, A cover plate is provided in front of the ion generating device. The portion of the cover plate located on both sides of the top air vent when viewed from the front of the refrigerator has multiple through micropores.

4. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ion generating device includes a housing. Inside the housing are a power supply board, a semiconductor cooling terminal for generating condensation on the surface, and a high-voltage ionization terminal for atomizing the condensation to produce nano-water ions. The housing has vents that allow the sprayed nano-water ions to enter the cold storage compartment. The controller sets the condensation time, which is the time for the condensate to be generated, as a variable, and determines the condensation time based on the set temperature and humidity of the cold storage room before the ion generating device is started.

5. The refrigerator as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The controller also includes a storage unit that pre-stores a lookup table representing the relationship between the humidity and the condensation time at each set temperature. The controller determines the condensation time based on the lookup table.

6. The refrigerator as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The refrigerator also includes a humidity sensor located near the ion generating device. The humidity is a weighted average of the values ​​detected by the humidity sensor during the previous operating cycle of the compressor before the ion generating device is started.

7. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, During the spraying of the nano-water ions, the controller performs a defrosting action on the ion generating device at predetermined intervals.

8. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, The controller controls the operation of the ion generating device in a manner that, according to the set temperature, links the ion generating device with the refrigeration of the refrigerator compartment or the shutdown of the compressor in different ways.

9. The refrigerator as described in claim 8, characterized in that, When the set temperature is within the first temperature range, the ion generating device starts operating after the refrigeration of the cold storage compartment is completed, and sequentially performs condensation, a first defrosting action, a first spraying action, a second defrosting action, and a second spraying action. When the set temperature is within a second temperature range that is higher than the first temperature range, the ion generating device starts operating after the compressor starts running from startup to shutdown, and sequentially performs condensation action, first defrosting action, first spraying action, second defrosting action, and second spraying action.

10. The refrigerator as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first temperature range is 1 to 2°C, and the second temperature range is 3 to 7°C.

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