Oxygen reduction device, refrigerator and control method

Abstract

This invention provides an oxygen-reducing device, a refrigerator, and a control method. The oxygen-reducing device includes a positive pressure pump, a nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and a connecting pipeline. The positive pressure pump has a first inlet and a first outlet. A drying device is installed at the first inlet. The connecting pipeline connects the first outlet of the positive pressure pump and the inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. A condensate drain outlet is provided on the connecting pipeline. Fluid entering the connecting pipeline can condense in the connecting pipeline, and the condensed water can be discharged through the condensate drain outlet. According to this invention, the dehumidification capacity and efficiency before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section can be improved, and the moisture content before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section can be reduced. This significantly reduces the humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane, improves the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and enhances the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. It effectively solves the problem of poor dehumidification performance in oxygen-reducing devices, resulting in high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigerator technology, specifically to an oxygen reduction device, a refrigerator, and a control method, belonging to the category of energy-saving refrigerator equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In fields such as modified atmosphere storage, positive pressure pumps are often used to draw in ambient air, which is then separated into high-purity nitrogen gas by a nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane and introduced into a sealed space to reduce the oxygen concentration and inhibit the respiration of fruits and vegetables.

[0003] In existing technologies, ambient air is compressed by a positive pressure pump, causing its temperature to rise. It is then cooled in pipelines, where water vapor readily condenses into liquid water. Once this liquid water enters the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane along with the high-pressure air, it directly causes hydrolysis, swelling, or micropore blockage of the membrane module, resulting in irreversible damage. This leads to a sharp decrease in separation efficiency and the inability to meet nitrogen purity standards.

[0004] The traditional method is to install a refrigerated dryer or a high-precision condensing filter in front of the membrane, but its dehumidification rate is not high, resulting in the gas humidity before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane is still high.

[0005] Because existing oxygen reduction devices suffer from poor dehumidification performance, resulting in high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane, this invention designs an oxygen reduction device, a refrigerator, and a control method, which belong to the category of energy-saving refrigerator equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defect of poor dehumidification performance of the existing oxygen reduction device, which results in high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane, and thus provide an oxygen reduction device, a refrigerator and a control method, which belong to energy-saving refrigerator equipment.

[0007] To address the above problems, the present invention provides an oxygen-reducing device, comprising:

[0008] The system includes a positive pressure pump, a nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, and a connecting pipeline. The positive pressure pump has a first inlet and a first outlet. A drying device is installed at the first inlet. The connecting pipeline connects the first outlet of the positive pressure pump and the inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. A condensate drain outlet is provided on the connecting pipeline. Fluid entering the connecting pipeline can condense in the connecting pipeline, and the condensate can be discharged through the condensate drain outlet.

[0009] In some implementations...

[0010] Relative to the location of the positive pressure pump, the condensate outlet on the connecting pipeline is positioned relatively close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, that is, the condensate outlet is relatively far from the positive pressure pump but close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0011] In some implementations...

[0012] The connecting pipeline includes an inlet pipeline and an outlet pipeline. The outlet pipeline includes a first pipeline and a second pipeline. One end of the inlet pipeline is connected to the first outlet. The inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section includes a second inlet and a third inlet. The first pipeline is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline and the second inlet, and the second pipeline is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline and the third inlet. The first pipeline and the second pipeline can work alternately.

[0013] In some implementations...

[0014] The first pipeline has an inlet valve and an outlet valve, and the second pipeline also has an inlet valve and an outlet valve; when both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline are open, both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline are closed, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit through the inlet pipeline and the first pipeline; when both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline are closed, both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline are open, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit through the inlet pipeline and the second pipeline.

[0015] In some implementations...

[0016] Both the first pipeline and the second pipeline are equipped with hygrometers. When the humidity in the first pipeline is detected to be less than the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline are both opened, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline are both closed. When the humidity in the first pipeline is detected to be greater than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline are both closed, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline are both opened.

[0017] In some implementations...

[0018] The nitrogen-oxygen separation unit includes a nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. The outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit is connected to the interior of the oxygen reduction drawer through an outlet pipe. A condensate box is provided below the condensate drain outlet, and the condensate box is connected to the outlet pipe through a pipeline.

[0019] In some implementations...

[0020] A first condensate box is provided below the condensate drain outlet of the first pipeline, and the first condensate box is connected to the outlet pipe through a third pipeline. A second condensate box is provided below the condensate drain outlet of the second pipeline, and the second condensate box is connected to the outlet pipe through a fourth pipeline. The condensate box includes the first condensate box and the second condensate box. A first fan is provided in the first condensate box, and a second fan is provided in the second condensate box.

[0021] In some implementations...

[0022] The connecting pipeline is also connected to a regeneration and recycling pipeline. One end of the regeneration and recycling pipeline is connected to the inlet pipeline, and the other end of the regeneration and recycling pipeline is connected to the drying device at the first inlet.

[0023] The present invention also provides a refrigerator that includes the aforementioned oxygen reduction device.

[0024] The present invention also provides a control method for the oxygen reduction device as described above, which includes: a detection step, wherein the humidity in the first pipeline is detected by a hygrometer;

[0025] The judgment step is to determine the relationship between the detected humidity and the preset humidity.

[0026] The control steps are as follows: when the detected humidity is greater than the preset humidity, the inlet and outlet valves of the first pipeline are closed, and the inlet and outlet valves of the second pipeline are opened; when the detected humidity is less than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet and outlet valves of the first pipeline are opened, and the inlet and outlet valves of the second pipeline are closed.

[0027] In some implementations...

[0028] The detection step can also detect the water level in the first condensation box and the water level in the second condensation box;

[0029] The judgment step involves determining the relationship between the water level height and the preset height.

[0030] The control steps are as follows: when the water level in the first condensation box is greater than or equal to a preset height, the first fan corresponding to the first condensation box is turned on; when the water level in the first condensation box is less than the preset height, the first fan corresponding to the first condensation box is turned off. When the water level in the second condensation box is greater than or equal to the preset height, the second fan corresponding to the second condensation box is turned on; when the water level in the second condensation box is less than the preset height, the second fan corresponding to the second condensation box is turned off.

[0031] The oxygen-reducing device, refrigerator, and control method provided by this invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0032] 1. This invention employs a connecting pipeline between a positive pressure pump and a nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. The positive pressure pump delivers air into the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit for oxygen absorption or nitrogen-oxygen separation. A drying device at the first inlet of the positive pressure pump performs primary water-air separation (or pre-desiccant adsorption) on the fluid entering the pump. Furthermore, a condensate drain is provided on the connecting pipeline. Since the fluid pumped out by the positive pressure pump is at a high temperature, the high-temperature fluid in the connecting pipeline will cool and condense. The condensate drain allows for timely discharge of this condensate, achieving secondary water-air separation (or post-condensation separation). This improves the dehumidification capacity and efficiency before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, reduces the moisture content upon entry, and significantly lowers the humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. This reduces the impact on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, extends its service life, and improves the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. It effectively solves the problem of poor dehumidification performance in oxygen-reducing devices, leading to high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane.

[0033] 2. This invention utilizes a connecting pipeline system including an inlet pipeline and first and second pipelines. Both the first and second pipelines are connected between the inlet pipeline and the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. The first and second pipelines can operate alternately, allowing one pipeline to be closed when humidity is high, while the other pipeline is opened to supply gas to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. This effectively prevents high-humidity fluids from entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit and ensures a continuous and effective supply of dry gas to the unit, guaranteeing the supply of deoxygenated gas (including nitrogen) to the refrigerator. This maintains the refrigerator's preservation performance. The invention also enables intelligent switching between the two pipelines based on humidity detection, ensuring the efficient and continuous operation of the condensation separation module, preventing single-point failures, guaranteeing continuous operation of the deoxygenation function, and continuously supplying deoxygenated gas to the refrigerator to maintain its preservation performance. Furthermore, it does not affect the performance or lifespan of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit.

[0034] 3. Furthermore, this invention, by providing a condensation box below the condensate drain outlet, can collect the condensate separated by condensation and connect it via a pipeline to the outlet pipe between the nitrogen-oxygen separation section and the oxygen-reducing drawer. This allows the liquid condensate, which would otherwise be discharged, to be remixed with nitrogen gas after nitrogen-oxygen separation and further injected into the oxygen-reducing drawer. This achieves a humidifying effect on the fruits and vegetables inside the oxygen-reducing drawer of the refrigerator. In addition to dehumidifying the gas before the nitrogen-oxygen separation section to improve its service life, this invention can also further humidify the gas after the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. This invention improves the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables in refrigerators, turning waste into treasure. It unifies the two contradictory functions of "dehumidification" and "humidification" in the oxygen reduction device of this invention, while also extending the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. Furthermore, by incorporating a fan structure, this invention can further atomize and transport the condensate to the oxygen reduction drawer, converting nitrogen and other gases in the outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit into high-humidity nitrogen gas, which is then transported to the oxygen reduction drawer to utilize the condensate. This improves the fusion effect of condensate and nitrogen gas, further enhancing the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables.

[0035] 4. This invention further connects a regeneration and recovery pipeline to the connecting pipeline and then to the drying device at the first inlet of the positive pressure pump. This allows the fluid in the connecting pipeline to be guided back to the drying device. By cleverly utilizing the heat generated during compression, the fluid is guided to the standby desiccant chamber for reverse purging and regeneration. No additional electric heating is required, thus realizing the recycling of the desiccant, reducing energy consumption and maintenance frequency, further improving the dehumidification performance of the fluid before the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, further reducing the impact on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, further increasing the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and improving the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the refrigerator oxygen reduction device of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of the drying device section;

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of the condensation box section;

[0039] Figure 4 This is the control logic diagram of the refrigerator oxygen reduction device of the present invention.

[0040] The reference numerals in the attached figures are as follows:

[0041] 1. Positive pressure pump; 2. Nitrogen-oxygen separation unit; 3. Connecting pipeline; 4. First inlet; 5. First outlet; 6. Drying device; 7. Inlet pipeline; 8. First pipeline; 9. Second pipeline; 10. Second inlet; 11. Third inlet; 12. Hygrometer; 13. Outlet pipe; 14. Oxygen reduction drawer; 15. Condensation box; 16. First condensation box; 17. Third pipeline; 18. Second condensation box; 19. Fourth pipeline; 20. First fan; 21. Second fan; 22. Regeneration and recovery pipeline; 23. Pressure gauge. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0043] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0044] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0045] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0046] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0047] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0048] like Figure 1-4 As shown, the present invention provides an oxygen reduction device, which includes:

[0049] The system includes a positive pressure pump 1, a nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2, and a connecting pipe 3. The positive pressure pump 1 has a first inlet 4 and a first outlet 5. A drying device 6 is installed at the first inlet 4. The connecting pipe 3 connects the first outlet 5 of the positive pressure pump 1 and the inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2. A condensate drain outlet (not shown in the figure) is provided on the connecting pipe 3. Fluid entering the connecting pipe 3 can condense in the connecting pipe 3, and the condensed water can be discharged through the condensate drain outlet.

[0050] This invention, through the aforementioned use of a connecting pipeline between a positive pressure pump and a nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, allows air to be pumped into the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit for oxygen absorption or nitrogen-oxygen separation. A drying device is installed at the first inlet of the positive pressure pump to perform primary water-air separation (or pre-desiccant adsorption) on the fluid entering the pump. Furthermore, a condensate drain outlet is provided on the connecting pipeline. Since the fluid pumped out by the positive pressure pump is at a high temperature, the high-temperature fluid in the connecting pipeline will cool and form condensation. The condensate drain outlet allows for timely discharge of the condensate, achieving secondary water-air separation (or post-condensation separation). This improves the dehumidification capacity and efficiency before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, reduces the moisture content upon entering the unit, and significantly lowers the humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. This reduces the impact on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit, extends its service life, and improves the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. It effectively solves the problem of poor dehumidification performance in oxygen-reducing devices, leading to high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane.

[0051] In some implementations...

[0052] Relative to the position of the positive pressure pump 1, the condensate outlet on the connecting pipe 3 is positioned relatively close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section 2, that is, the condensate outlet is relatively far away from the positive pressure pump 1 and close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section 2.

[0053] The present invention also utilizes the preferred location of the condensate drain outlet, namely, its location relative to the positive pressure pump and close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, to maximize the cooling effect of the fluid through the connecting pipeline, thereby further improving the performance of gas-liquid separation, ensuring that as much or all of the liquid in the fluid is separated, further improving the dryness of the gas entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section or reducing its humidity, and further improving the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0054] In some implementations...

[0055] The connecting pipeline 3 includes an inlet pipeline 7 and an outlet pipeline. The outlet pipeline includes a first pipeline 8 and a second pipeline 9. One end of the inlet pipeline 7 is connected to the first outlet 5. The inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section 2 includes a second inlet 10 and a third inlet 11. The first pipeline 8 is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline 7 and the second inlet 10, and the second pipeline 9 is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline 7 and the third inlet 11. The first pipeline 8 and the second pipeline 9 can work alternately.

[0056] This invention utilizes a connecting pipeline including an inlet pipeline and first and second pipelines. Both the first and second pipelines are connected between the inlet pipeline and the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. The first and second pipelines can operate alternately, allowing one pipeline to be closed when humidity is high, while the other pipeline is opened to supply gas to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit. This effectively prevents high-humidity fluids from entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit and ensures a continuous and effective supply of dry gas to the unit, guaranteeing the supply of deoxygenated gas (including nitrogen) to the refrigerator. This maintains the refrigerator's preservation performance and enables intelligent switching between the two pipelines based on humidity detection. This ensures the efficient and continuous operation of the condensation separation module, avoids single-point failure, guarantees continuous operation of the deoxygenation function, and continuously provides deoxygenated gas to the refrigerator, maintaining its preservation performance without affecting the performance or lifespan of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit.

[0057] In some implementations...

[0058] The first pipeline 8 has an inlet valve and an outlet valve, and the second pipeline 9 also has an inlet valve and an outlet valve. When both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline 8 are open, both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline 9 are closed, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump 1 is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2 through the inlet pipeline 7 and the first pipeline 8. When both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline 8 are closed, both the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline 9 are open, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump 1 is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2 through the inlet pipeline 7 and the second pipeline 9.

[0059] This is a preferred structural form of the first and second pipelines of the present invention. By setting inlet valves and outlet valves on both the first and second pipelines respectively, the on / off state of the corresponding pipelines can be precisely controlled. In particular, when the first pipeline is open, the second pipeline is closed, and when the first pipeline is closed, the second pipeline is open, which can realize the alternating operation of the first and second pipelines. When the humidity in one pipeline is high, it can be closed, while the other pipeline is opened to supply gas to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. This can prevent the fluid with high humidity from entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section and ensure that dry gas is continuously and effectively provided to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. Furthermore, this ensures the continuous operation of the oxygen reduction function, continuously provides oxygen-reducing gas to the refrigerator, ensures its freshness preservation performance, and does not affect the performance and lifespan of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0060] In some implementations...

[0061] Both the first pipeline 8 and the second pipeline 9 are equipped with hygrometers 12. When the humidity in the first pipeline 8 is detected to be less than the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve on the first pipeline 8 are opened, and the inlet valve and outlet valve on the second pipeline 9 are closed. When the humidity in the first pipeline 8 is detected to be greater than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve on the first pipeline 8 are closed, and the inlet valve and outlet valve on the second pipeline 9 are opened.

[0062] This is a further preferred structural form of the first and second pipelines of the present invention. By installing hygrometers on the first and second pipelines respectively, the opening and closing of the corresponding pipelines can be accurately controlled according to the humidity level. In particular, the first pipeline is opened when the humidity is lower than the preset humidity while the second pipeline is closed, and the first pipeline is closed when the humidity is greater than or equal to the preset humidity while the second pipeline is opened. This enables the alternating operation of the first and second pipelines, closing the pipeline with higher humidity and opening the pipeline with lower humidity. This prevents the fluid with higher humidity from entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section while ensuring a continuous and effective supply of dry gas to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. This further ensures the continuous operation of the oxygen reduction function, continuously providing oxygen-reducing gas to the refrigerator, ensuring its preservation performance, and without affecting the performance and lifespan of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0063] In some implementations...

[0064] The nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2 includes a nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. The outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit 2 is connected to the interior of the oxygen reduction drawer 14 through the outlet pipe 13. A condensate box 15 is provided below the condensate drain outlet, and the condensate box 15 is connected to the outlet pipe 13 through a pipeline.

[0065] Furthermore, this invention, through the aforementioned structure of setting a condensation box below the condensate drain outlet, can collect the condensate separated by condensation and connect it to the outlet pipe between the nitrogen-oxygen separation section and the oxygen-reducing drawer via a pipeline. This allows the liquid condensate that would otherwise be discharged to be remixed with nitrogen gas after nitrogen-oxygen separation and further injected into the oxygen-reducing drawer, achieving a humidification effect on the fruits and vegetables inside the oxygen-reducing drawer of the refrigerator. It can not only dehumidify the gas before the nitrogen-oxygen separation section to improve its service life, but also further humidify the gas after the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, improving the humidification effect on the fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. It turns waste into treasure, unifying the two contradictory functions of "dehumidification" and "humidification" in the oxygen-reducing device of this invention, while also improving the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0066] In some implementations...

[0067] When the connecting pipeline 3 includes an inlet pipeline 7 and an outlet pipeline, and the outlet pipeline includes a first pipeline 8 and a second pipeline 9:

[0068] A first condensate box 16 is provided below the condensate drain outlet of the first pipe 8. The first condensate box 16 is connected to the outlet pipe 13 through a third pipe 17. A second condensate box 18 is provided below the condensate drain outlet of the second pipe 9. The second condensate box 18 is connected to the outlet pipe 13 through a fourth pipe 19. The condensate box 15 includes the first condensate box 16 and the second condensate box 18. A first fan 20 is provided in the first condensate box 16, and a second fan 21 is provided in the second condensate box 18.

[0069] This is a further preferred structural form of the condensation box of the present invention. Condensation boxes are installed below the condensate drain outlets of both the first and second pipelines, enabling effective drainage of the condensate from both boxes. The condensate is then discharged through the third and fourth pipelines to the outlet pipe, respectively, humidifying the gas after the nitrogen-oxygen separation section and improving the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. This also extends the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. Furthermore, the present invention incorporates a fan structure, which further atomizes and vaporizes the condensate, transporting it to the oxygen-reducing drawer. This converts nitrogen and other gases at the outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section into high-humidity nitrogen gas, which is then transported to the oxygen-reducing drawer, utilizing the condensate and improving the fusion effect between the condensate and nitrogen gas, further enhancing the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables.

[0070] In some implementations...

[0071] The connecting pipe 3 is also connected to a regeneration and recycling pipe 22. One end of the regeneration and recycling pipe 22 is connected to the inlet pipe 7, and the other end of the regeneration and recycling pipe 22 is connected to the drying device 6 at the first inlet 4.

[0072] This invention further connects a regeneration and recovery pipeline to the aforementioned connecting pipeline and then to the drying device at the first inlet of the positive pressure pump. This allows the fluid in the connecting pipeline to be guided back to the drying device. By cleverly utilizing the heat generated during compression, the fluid is guided to the standby desiccant chamber for reverse purging and regeneration. No additional electric heating is required, thus realizing the recycling of the desiccant, reducing energy consumption and maintenance frequency, further improving the dehumidification performance of the fluid before the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, further reducing the impact on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, further increasing the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and improving the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator.

[0073] The working process of the oxygen reduction device of the present invention:

[0074] Phase 1: Adsorption, Drying, and Regeneration (Pretreatment Stage)

[0075] Ambient air first enters one of the working chambers of the multi-chamber rotary regenerative drying chamber. The desiccant (such as molecular sieve or silica gel) in the chamber adsorbs the moisture in the air, thus performing primary drying.

[0076] After initial drying, the air is compressed by a positive pressure pump. The compressed, high-temperature, high-pressure air flows through a pressure gauge. At this point, a small portion of the compressed hot air is drawn out through the regeneration heat recovery pipeline and blows in reverse through the standby regeneration chamber in the multi-chamber rotary regenerable drying chamber. This desorbs the moisture adsorbed by the desiccant inside and carries it into the atmosphere, completing the regeneration of the desiccant. The control system periodically switches between the working chamber and the regeneration chamber to achieve the cyclical use of the drying chamber.

[0077] Phase Two: Condensation Separation and Intelligent Switching (Condensation Stage)

[0078] Compressed air, after primary drying, enters the dual-pipeline alternating condensation and separation module. A humidity sensor monitors the gas humidity in real time. By default, the system opens the inlet and outlet valves of the first pipeline, while the second pipeline is closed.

[0079] The compressed air cools down in the first pipeline due to heat dissipation, and the remaining water vapor further condenses into liquid water, which flows down the pipe wall into the condensation box at the bottom.

[0080] When the humidity sensor detects an increase in humidity at the outlet of the first pipeline (indicating significant water accumulation inside the pipeline and reduced separation efficiency), the control system immediately closes the valve of the first pipeline and simultaneously opens the valve of the second pipeline, allowing the airflow to switch to the second pipeline for condensation separation. During this period, the first pipeline remains in standby evacuation mode.

[0081] Phase 3: Condensation vaporization and high-humidity nitrogen generation (resource utilization level)

[0082] Compressed air that has been thoroughly dried and dehumidified enters the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane, where high-purity dry nitrogen is separated and discharged into the oxygen-reducing drawer through the nitrogen outlet. This is mainly used to reduce the oxygen concentration for preserving fruits and vegetables.

[0083] Once liquid water accumulates in the condensation box 15 of the first pipeline, the control system activates the fan, connecting the bottom of the condensation box to the nitrogen outlet pipe via a connecting pipe. The fan bubbles and blows the liquid water, accelerating its evaporation and vaporization. The resulting high-humidity nitrogen gas is then sent into the fruit and vegetable preservation drawer, significantly increasing the relative humidity inside the drawer while maintaining a low-oxygen environment, thus preventing the fruits and vegetables from losing water.

[0084] The present invention also provides a refrigerator that includes the aforementioned oxygen reduction device.

[0085] The refrigerator of the present invention, by including the aforementioned oxygen reduction device, can perform primary water-gas separation (or pre-desiccant adsorption) on the fluid entering the positive pressure pump from the first inlet, and can also discharge the generated condensate in a timely manner through the setting of the condensate drain outlet, thus achieving secondary water-gas separation (or post-condensation separation). This can improve the dehumidification capacity and efficiency before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, reduce the moisture content when entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and significantly reduce the humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane, thereby reducing the impact on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, improving the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and improving the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. It effectively solves the problem of poor dehumidification performance of the oxygen reduction device, which leads to high humidity of the gas before entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane.

[0086] The beneficial effects of the oxygen-reducing refrigerator of the present invention are as follows:

[0087] 1. Multi-stage deep dehumidification to protect membrane components: By setting up a drying chamber at the front end of the positive pressure pump for primary adsorption dehumidification and setting up a dual-pipeline condensation separation at the rear end for secondary physical dehumidification, the moisture content of the gas entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane is greatly reduced, effectively preventing liquid water from damaging the membrane fibers and ensuring that the purity of nitrogen gas remains stable and meets the standards in the long term.

[0088] 2. Intelligent alternation and automatic drainage vaporization: The dual-pipeline design, combined with a humidity sensor, enables intelligent alternation of operation, preventing the efficiency of a single pipeline from decreasing due to long-term use.

[0089] 3. Improve preservation quality: The originally harmful condensation is collected and passed into the dry nitrogen pipe, which is then converted into high-humidity nitrogen and passed into the fruit and vegetable preservation drawer. While reducing oxygen, a high-humidity environment is maintained, which effectively prevents fruits and vegetables from losing water and wilting, achieving a dual preservation effect of "reducing oxygen and retaining water".

[0090] 4. Energy recycling and self-cleaning: The heat generated during compression is cleverly used to guide the desiccant to the standby desiccant chamber for reverse purging and regeneration. No additional electric heating is required, which realizes the recycling of the desiccant and reduces energy consumption and maintenance frequency.

[0091] The present invention also provides a control method for the oxygen reduction device as described above, which includes: a detection step, wherein the humidity in the first pipeline 8 is detected by a hygrometer 12;

[0092] The judgment step is to determine the relationship between the detected humidity and the preset humidity.

[0093] The control steps are as follows: when the detected humidity is greater than the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline 8 are both closed, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline 9 are both opened; when the detected humidity is less than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline 8 are both opened, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline 9 are both closed.

[0094] This invention, through the aforementioned control method, can precisely control the opening and closing of corresponding pipelines according to the humidity level. In particular, the first pipeline opens when the humidity is lower than the preset humidity while the second pipeline closes, and the first pipeline closes when the humidity is greater than or equal to the preset humidity while the second pipeline opens. This enables the alternating operation of the first and second pipelines, closing the pipeline with higher humidity and opening the pipeline with lower humidity. This prevents the fluid with higher humidity from entering the nitrogen-oxygen separation section while ensuring a continuous and effective supply of dry gas to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section. Furthermore, this invention ensures the continuous operation of the oxygen reduction function, continuously providing oxygen-reducing gas to the refrigerator, maintaining its freshness preservation performance, and without affecting the performance and lifespan of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section.

[0095] The structural improvements of this invention are as follows: A multi-stage dehumidification architecture of "pre-desiccant adsorption + post-condensation separation" is constructed, and a self-cleaning mechanism utilizing compression heat reverse regeneration is incorporated.

[0096] Functional integration point: The liquid condensate that originally needed to be discharged is converted into high-humidity nitrogen gas by the fan and then utilized, turning waste into treasure. The two contradictory functions of "dehumidification" and "humidification" are unified in the system.

[0097] Control logic point: The dual-pipeline intelligent switching based on humidity detection ensures the efficient and continuous operation of the condensation separation module and avoids single point of failure.

[0098] In some implementations...

[0099] The detection step can also detect the water level in the first condensation box 16 and the water level in the second condensation box 18;

[0100] The judgment step involves determining the relationship between the water level height and the preset height.

[0101] The control steps are as follows: when the water level in the first condensation box 16 is greater than or equal to a preset height, the first fan 20 corresponding to the first condensation box 16 is turned on; when the water level in the first condensation box 16 is less than the preset height, the first fan 20 corresponding to the first condensation box 16 is turned off. When the water level in the second condensation box 18 is greater than or equal to the preset height, the second fan 21 corresponding to the second condensation box 18 is turned on; when the water level in the second condensation box 18 is less than the preset height, the second fan 21 corresponding to the second condensation box 18 is turned off.

[0102] This is a further preferred form of the control method of the present invention, which can effectively discharge the condensate in the two condensation boxes according to the water level height of the two condensation boxes, and lead it to the outlet pipe through the third and fourth pipes respectively. It can humidify the gas after the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, improve the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, and at the same time ensure the continuous supply of gas to the inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, improve the service life of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section, and further improve the preservation effect of fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. Furthermore, the present invention also incorporates a fan structure, which can further blow and vaporize the condensate and transport it to the deoxygenation drawer, so that the nitrogen and other gases in the outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section are converted into high-humidity nitrogen gas, and then transported to the deoxygenation drawer to utilize the condensate, improve the fusion effect of condensate and nitrogen gas, and further improve the humidification effect on fruits and vegetables.

[0103] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention. The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An oxygen-reducing device, characterized in that: include: A positive pressure pump (1), a nitrogen-oxygen separation unit (2), and a connecting pipe (3) are provided. The positive pressure pump (1) has a first inlet (4) and a first outlet (5). A drying device (6) is provided at the first inlet (4). The connecting pipe (3) is connected between the first outlet (5) of the positive pressure pump (1) and the inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit (2). A condensate drain outlet is provided on the connecting pipe (3). The fluid entering the connecting pipe (3) can be condensed in the connecting pipe (3), and the condensed water can be discharged through the condensate drain outlet.

2. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Relative to the position of the positive pressure pump (1), the condensate outlet on the connecting pipe (3) is positioned relatively close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section (2), that is, the condensate outlet is relatively far away from the positive pressure pump (1) and close to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section (2).

3. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting pipeline (3) includes an inlet pipeline (7) and an outlet pipeline. The outlet pipeline includes a first pipeline (8) and a second pipeline (9). One end of the inlet pipeline (7) is connected to the first outlet (5). The inlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation section (2) includes a second inlet (10) and a third inlet (11). The first pipeline (8) is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline (7) and the second inlet (10). The second pipeline (9) is connected between the other end of the inlet pipeline (7) and the third inlet (11). The first pipeline (8) and the second pipeline (9) can work alternately.

4. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first pipeline (8) has an inlet valve and an outlet valve, and the second pipeline (9) also has an inlet valve and an outlet valve; when the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline (8) are both open, the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline (9) are both closed, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump (1) is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section (2) through the inlet pipeline (7) and the first pipeline (8); when the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the first pipeline (8) are both closed, the inlet valve and the outlet valve on the second pipeline (9) are both open, and the outlet of the positive pressure pump (1) is connected to the nitrogen-oxygen separation section (2) through the inlet pipeline (7) and the second pipeline (9).

5. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 4, characterized in that: A hygrometer (12) is installed on both the first pipeline (8) and the second pipeline (9). When the humidity in the first pipeline (8) is detected to be less than the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve on the first pipeline (8) are both opened, and the inlet valve and outlet valve on the second pipeline (9) are both closed. When the humidity in the first pipeline (8) is detected to be greater than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve on the first pipeline (8) are both closed, and the inlet valve and outlet valve on the second pipeline (9) are both opened.

6. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nitrogen-oxygen separation unit (2) includes a nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. The outlet of the nitrogen-oxygen separation unit (2) is connected to the interior of the oxygen reduction drawer (14) through an outlet pipe (13). A condensate box (15) is provided below the condensate outlet. The condensate box (15) is connected to the outlet pipe (13) through a pipeline.

7. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 6, characterized in that: When the connecting pipeline (3) includes an inlet pipeline (7) and an outlet pipeline, and the outlet pipeline includes a first pipeline (8) and a second pipeline (9): A first condensate box (16) is provided below the condensate outlet of the first pipeline (8). The first condensate box (16) is connected to the outlet pipe (13) through a third pipeline (17). A second condensate box (18) is provided below the condensate outlet of the second pipeline (9). The second condensate box (18) is connected to the outlet pipe (13) through a fourth pipeline (19). The condensate box (15) includes the first condensate box (16) and the second condensate box (18). A first fan (20) is provided in the first condensate box (16), and a second fan (21) is provided in the second condensate box (18).

8. The oxygen reduction device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The connecting pipe (3) is also connected to a regeneration and recycling pipe (22). One end of the regeneration and recycling pipe (22) is connected to the inlet pipe (7), and the other end of the regeneration and recycling pipe (22) is connected to the drying device (6) at the first inlet (4).

9. A refrigerator, characterized in that: The oxygen-reducing device includes any one of claims 1-8.

10. A control method for an oxygen-reducing device as described in any one of claims 3-8, characterized in that: include: The detection step involves detecting the humidity in the first pipe (8) using a hygrometer (12); The judgment step is to determine the relationship between the detected humidity and the preset humidity. Control steps: When the detected humidity is greater than the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline (8) are closed, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline (9) are opened at the same time; when the detected humidity is less than or equal to the preset humidity, the inlet valve and outlet valve of the first pipeline (8) are opened, and the inlet valve and outlet valve of the second pipeline (9) are closed at the same time.

11. The control method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The detection step can also detect the water level in the first condensation box (16) and the water level in the second condensation box (18); The judgment step involves determining the relationship between the water level height and the preset height. The control steps are as follows: when the water level in the first condensation box (16) is greater than or equal to a preset height, the first fan (20) corresponding to the first condensation box (16) is turned on; when the water level in the first condensation box (16) is less than the preset height, the first fan (20) corresponding to the first condensation box (16) is turned off; when the water level in the second condensation box (18) is greater than or equal to the preset height, the second fan (21) corresponding to the second condensation box (18) is turned on; when the water level in the second condensation box (18) is less than the preset height, the second fan (21) corresponding to the second condensation box (18) is turned off.

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