An oxygen-reducing preservation device and a refrigerator

Abstract

This utility model discloses an oxygen-reducing preservation device and a refrigerator. The oxygen-reducing preservation device includes: a drawer cover, a cooling outer cover, an oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, and an extraction chamber. The drawer cover forms a preservation area, the cooling outer cover is located on the outer periphery of the drawer cover, an insulation layer is provided between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber and the cooling outer cover, and the extraction chamber is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber through an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster. The drawer cover is equipped with a first vacuum pump, which is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber. The extraction chamber is connected to a second vacuum pump, and the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is equipped with an air vent, which is connected to the preservation area through a pipe. This utility model can accelerate the extraction and separation of oxygen from the preservation area, reducing the oxygen concentration in the preservation area in a short time. In addition, it can promote faster oxygen entry into the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster, ensuring efficient oxygen-reducing preservation even in low-temperature environments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of oxygen reduction and preservation technology, and in particular to an oxygen reduction and preservation device and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of people's living standards and the change in consumption concepts, consumers are increasingly demanding freshness and shelf life of food. As a commonly used food storage device in households, the preservation performance of refrigerators has become a key focus for consumers. To meet market demands, refrigerator manufacturers are constantly investing in research and development, seeking innovative methods to extend the shelf life of food and improve the preservation effect of refrigerators.

[0003] Currently, in the high-end refrigerator market, nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane technology is widely used to achieve oxygen reduction and preservation. The basic principle of this technology is to use a thin film made of specific materials, based on the difference in the permeation rate of different gas molecules within the membrane, to separate oxygen from other gases in the air. By reducing the oxygen concentration in the refrigerator's storage space, the process of food oxidation and spoilage is slowed down, thereby effectively extending the shelf life of food and maintaining its freshness and nutritional components.

[0004] However, in practical applications, the use of nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane technology in refrigerators faces significant challenges. Refrigerators typically need to operate at relatively low temperatures to achieve good food preservation. These lower operating temperatures significantly impact the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. From a gas dynamics perspective, low temperatures reduce the mobility of gas molecules. The weakened thermal motion of gas molecules slows their passage through the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane. This drastically reduces the gas separation efficiency of the membrane, making the oxygen reduction process slow. In practical use, this directly results in the oxygen concentration within the refrigerator's storage space failing to decrease to the ideal level within a reasonable timeframe, thus failing to achieve the expected preservation effect.

[0005] For example, in some high-end refrigerators using nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane technology, under normal room temperature conditions, the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane can reduce the oxygen concentration in the storage space to a suitable range in a relatively short time, effectively inhibiting food oxidation and spoilage. However, when the refrigerator is operating at low temperatures, the oxygen reduction process may take several times longer than under normal room temperature conditions, and in some extreme cases, it may not be able to reduce the oxygen concentration to a level that meets the requirements for food preservation. This not only affects the refrigerator's preservation performance but also reduces consumer satisfaction with high-end refrigerator products.

[0006] Therefore, how to effectively improve the gas separation efficiency of nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes and accelerate oxygen reduction in low-temperature environments has become a key issue that urgently needs to be addressed in the field of refrigerator preservation technology. Utility Model Content

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an oxygen-reducing preservation device and a refrigerator.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0009] In a first aspect, this utility model provides an oxygen-reducing preservation device, comprising: a drawer cover, an air-cooled outer cover, an oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, and an extraction chamber. The drawer cover forms a preservation area, the air-cooled outer cover is disposed on the outer periphery of the drawer cover, an insulation layer is provided between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber and the air-cooled outer cover, the extraction chamber is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber through an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster, the drawer cover is provided with a first vacuum pump, and the first vacuum pump is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, the extraction chamber is connected with a second vacuum pump, the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is provided with an air passage door, and the air passage door is connected to the preservation area through a pipe.

[0010] In one specific embodiment, an electric heating wire is also provided in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber.

[0011] In one specific embodiment, the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is also provided with multiple fans.

[0012] In one specific embodiment, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster is sealed at one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, and the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster is composed of several oxygen-enriched membrane filaments, with cavities formed inside the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments, and the cavities are exposed to the extraction chamber.

[0013] In one specific embodiment, the diameter of the oxygen-enriched membrane filament is 0.1-0.5 mm.

[0014] In one specific embodiment, the air-cooled outer casing is provided with an air inlet door and an air outlet door.

[0015] In one specific embodiment, the drawer cover is further provided with an oxygen sensor, which is used to detect the oxygen content of the preservation area.

[0016] In one specific embodiment, the first vacuum pump is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber via an exhaust pipe.

[0017] In one specific embodiment, the air vent is connected to the preservation area via an insulation pipe.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this oxygen-reducing preservation device compared to existing technologies are as follows: A first vacuum pump draws air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, while a second vacuum pump removes oxygen from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster, creating a negative pressure inside the cluster. Under this pressure difference, oxygen from the air in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber can quickly enter the cluster and then be drawn away by the second vacuum pump. This dual-vacuum-pump collaborative operation significantly accelerates the rate at which oxygen is drawn from and separated from the preservation area, effectively reducing the oxygen concentration within the preservation area in a short time and thus suppressing oxygen deficiency. This device reduces the oxidative spoilage process of food, thereby better preserving its freshness and nutritional components and extending its shelf life. Furthermore, in the low-temperature operating environment of a refrigerator, the gas separation efficiency of existing nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes is affected by reduced gas molecule activity, leading to a slower oxygen reduction rate. This device, however, uses dual vacuum pumps working in tandem to create a pressure difference, promoting faster oxygen entry into the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster. This effectively overcomes the adverse effects of reduced gas molecule activity on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane under low-temperature conditions, ensuring efficient oxygen reduction and preservation even at low temperatures.

[0019] Secondly, this utility model embodiment provides a refrigerator, including the oxygen-reducing preservation device described above.

[0020] The advantages of this refrigerator compared to existing technologies are as follows: By incorporating an oxygen-reducing preservation device, and using a first vacuum pump to extract air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, while a second vacuum pump extracts oxygen from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster, a negative pressure is created inside the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster. Under this pressure difference, oxygen in the air within the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber can quickly enter the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster and then be extracted by the second vacuum pump. This dual-vacuum-pump collaborative operation greatly accelerates the speed at which oxygen is extracted and separated from the preservation area, significantly reducing the oxygen concentration in the preservation area in a shorter time. This device effectively inhibits the oxidative deterioration process of food, thereby better maintaining the freshness and nutritional components of food and extending its shelf life. In addition, in the low-temperature working environment of a refrigerator, the gas separation efficiency of nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes in existing technologies is affected by the reduced activity of gas molecules, resulting in a slower oxygen reduction rate. However, this device uses dual vacuum pumps working together to create a pressure difference, which promotes oxygen to enter the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster more quickly. This effectively overcomes the adverse effects of reduced gas molecule activity on the performance of nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes in low-temperature environments, ensuring that efficient oxygen reduction and preservation functions can still be achieved in low-temperature environments.

[0021] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the oxygen-reducing and food-preserving device provided by this utility model;

[0024] Figure 2 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber provided by this utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster provided by this utility model.

[0026] Figure label:

[0027] Drawer cover 10, air-cooled outer cover 20, air inlet door 21, air outlet door 22, oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, air extraction chamber 40, air extraction interface 41, insulation layer 50, oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, oxygen-enriched membrane fiber 61, first vacuum pump 70, air passage door 80, electric heating wire 90, fan 100, oxygen sensor 110, exhaust pipe 120. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0029] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0030] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to 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 of this utility model.

[0031] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0032] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0033] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0034] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. The illustrative expressions of the above terms in this specification should not be construed as necessarily referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0035] See Figures 1 to 3As shown, this utility model discloses a specific embodiment of an oxygen-reducing and preservation device, including: a drawer cover 10, an air-cooled outer cover 20, an oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, and an extraction chamber 40. The drawer cover 10 forms a preservation area, the air-cooled outer cover 20 is disposed on the outer periphery of the drawer cover 10, an insulation layer 50 is provided between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and the air-cooled outer cover 20, the extraction chamber 40 is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 through an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, the drawer cover 10 is provided with a first vacuum pump 70, and the first vacuum pump 70 is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, the extraction chamber 40 is connected to a second vacuum pump, the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is provided with an air passage 80, and the air passage 80 is connected to the preservation area through a pipe.

[0036] Specifically, first, drawer cover 10 is installed in a suitable position inside the refrigerator, its internal space forming a preservation area for storing food. Next, the air-cooling cover 20 is fitted over the drawer cover 10, leaving sufficient space between them for subsequent installation of other components. Then, insulation material is filled between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and the air-cooling cover 20 to form an insulation layer 50, which separates the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 from the air-cooling cover 20, preventing mutual interference and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, the extraction chamber 40 is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 via an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, made of a specific material, capable of separating oxygen from other gases based on the differences in the permeation rates of different gas molecules. A first vacuum pump 70 is installed on the drawer cover 10, with its extraction port connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30; a second vacuum pump is connected to the extraction chamber 40, ensuring that the second vacuum pump can effectively extract the gas from the extraction chamber 40. Meanwhile, an air passage door 80 is installed on the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, and the air passage door 80 is connected to the preservation area through a pipe to ensure that the gas in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 can flow smoothly to the preservation area.

[0037] When the refrigerator starts operating, the first vacuum pump 70 activates, drawing air from the fresh-keeping area and delivering it to the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30. Simultaneously, the second vacuum pump also starts, extracting gas from the extraction compartment 40, creating a negative pressure within the extraction compartment 40 and the connected oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Under this negative pressure, oxygen molecules in the air within the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30, due to their faster permeation rate, preferentially pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 into the extraction compartment 40, where they are then drawn out by the second vacuum pump and discharged to the outside of the device. Other gas molecules, however, have relatively less chance of passing through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 and mostly remain within the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30. During the oxygen reduction process, the device is equipped with an oxygen content detection structure to monitor the oxygen content in the fresh-keeping area in real time. When the detected oxygen content in the fresh-keeping area falls below a preset suitable value, both the first and second vacuum pumps stop operating simultaneously, ending the oxygen reduction process. After the first and second vacuum pumps stop operating, the air vent 80 automatically opens. Because an insulation layer 50 is provided between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and the air-cooled outer cover 20, and because during the deoxygenation process, the air in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is continuously extracted and replenished with new air (drawn in from the preservation area), its internal pressure is relatively high and its temperature is relatively low. At this time, the high-pressure air in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is rapidly diffused to the preservation area through pipes, causing the temperature in the preservation area to drop rapidly.

[0038] In other words, the first vacuum pump 70 draws air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, while the second vacuum pump draws oxygen from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, creating a negative pressure inside the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Under this pressure difference, oxygen in the air in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 can quickly enter the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 and then be drawn away by the second vacuum pump. This dual-vacuum-pump collaborative operation greatly accelerates the speed at which oxygen is drawn away and separated from the preservation area, significantly reducing the oxygen concentration in the preservation area in a short time. This effectively inhibits the oxidative deterioration process of food, thereby better maintaining the freshness and nutritional components of food and extending its shelf life. Furthermore, in the low-temperature operating environment of a refrigerator, the gas separation efficiency of nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes in existing technologies is affected by the reduced mobility of gas molecules, resulting in a slower oxygen reduction rate. This device, however, utilizes dual vacuum pumps working in tandem to create a pressure difference, promoting faster oxygen entry into the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. This effectively overcomes the adverse effects of reduced gas molecule mobility on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane under low-temperature conditions, ensuring efficient oxygen reduction and preservation even at low temperatures. Additionally, by using an oxygen content detection structure to monitor the oxygen content in the preservation area in real time and controlling the start and stop of the first and second vacuum pumps accordingly, the oxygen content in the preservation area can be precisely controlled within a set range. This avoids the problems of excessive oxygen reduction potentially altering food flavor or insufficient oxygen reduction leading to ineffective preservation, providing a personalized preservation environment for different types of food and improving the preservation effect.

[0039] In one embodiment, the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is further provided with an electric heating wire 90.

[0040] Specifically, during the design and manufacturing phase of the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30, an electric heating wire 90 of appropriate specifications and power is selected based on the structure and dimensions of the compartment. The electric heating wire 90 is installed on the inner wall of the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30 or on a specific support structure according to a predetermined layout, ensuring that the electric heating wire 90 is in full contact with the air inside the compartment and is securely installed to prevent loosening or displacement during operation. Simultaneously, the connection between the electric heating wire 90 and the power line must be properly secured, ensuring good insulation at the connection point to prevent safety hazards such as leakage. When the refrigerator's oxygen-reducing preservation function is activated and enters oxygen-reducing mode, the refrigerator's control system receives the corresponding instruction. The control system sends a start signal to the electric heating wire 90 through a preset program, causing the electric heating wire 90 to begin heating. During the heating process, the control system adjusts the heating power of the electric heating wire 90 according to a preset temperature range. For example, a temperature sensor can be installed inside the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30 to monitor the temperature in real time and feed the temperature signal back to the control system. When the temperature falls below the set lower limit, the control system increases the heating power of the electric heating wire 90; when the temperature reaches the set upper limit, the control system reduces the heating power or stops heating to maintain the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 within a suitable range. While the electric heating wire 90 heats and raises the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, the first vacuum pump 70 and the second vacuum pump operate normally as described above. The first vacuum pump 70 draws air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, and the second vacuum pump draws oxygen from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, creating a negative pressure. At a suitable temperature, the diffusion activity of gas molecules in the air within the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 increases, allowing oxygen molecules to pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 more quickly into the extraction chamber 40, thus achieving a more efficient deoxygenation process.

[0041] In other words, at low temperatures, the thermal motion of gas molecules slows down, and the diffusion rate decreases, which affects the gas separation efficiency of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. By installing an electric heating wire 90 inside the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and activating heating, the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 can be increased. The increased temperature intensifies the thermal motion of gas molecules, significantly increasing their diffusion activity. For example, oxygen molecules, which normally move slowly at low temperatures, move faster after heating, allowing them to contact the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 more frequently and attempt to pass through, thus accelerating the rate at which oxygen enters the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 from the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. Furthermore, due to the increased diffusion activity of gas molecules, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 can more effectively separate oxygen from other gases. Within a given time, more oxygen molecules can pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 into the extraction chamber 40 and be extracted by the second vacuum pump, while relatively fewer other gas molecules pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, with most remaining in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. This significantly improves the gas separation efficiency of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, enabling the oxygen concentration in the preservation area to be reduced to the set target value in a shorter time, thus improving the speed and effectiveness of oxygen reduction and preservation. Furthermore, in actual refrigerator use, especially in low-temperature environments, traditional devices may experience a significant decrease in oxygen reduction efficiency due to reduced gas molecule activity. This device, however, overcomes the adverse effects of low temperatures on gas molecule diffusion by heating the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 with an electric heating wire 90, ensuring efficient oxygen reduction even in low-temperature environments. This allows the oxygen reduction and preservation device to adapt to a wider range of ambient temperatures, improving its practicality and reliability, and providing consumers with a better preservation experience when using refrigerators in different seasons and regions.

[0042] In one embodiment, the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is also provided with a plurality of fans 100.

[0043] Specifically, the fan 100 is installed on the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. Based on the structure and spatial layout of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, a fan 100 of appropriate size and airflow is selected. The fan 100 is installed in the reserved position on the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 using screws or other fixing devices, ensuring that the fan 100 is securely installed and will not loosen or fall off during operation. Simultaneously, the installation angle and number of fans 100 should be rationally planned to ensure that the airflow blown by the fan 100 can evenly cover the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, effectively dispersing nitrogen gas. In addition, the power supply line of the fan 100 is connected to the refrigerator's control system. In the refrigerator's circuit design, a corresponding control module is set up so that the fan 100 can achieve linkage control with the first vacuum pump 70, the second vacuum pump, and the electric heating wire 90. When the refrigerator's oxygen-reducing preservation function is activated, and the first vacuum pump 70 and the second vacuum pump start working, the control system automatically sends a start signal to the fan 100, causing the fan 100 to turn on simultaneously. Simultaneously, the control system sends a command to the electric heating wire 90 to initiate heating, raising the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 to 12 degrees Celsius. During operation, the control system continuously monitors the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and maintains a stable temperature of approximately 12 degrees Celsius by adjusting the power of the electric heating wire 90.

[0044] In other words, during the deoxygenation process, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 separates oxygen from other gases in the air, while gases such as nitrogen, which are difficult to pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane, tend to accumulate on the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. When the fan 100 is turned on, the generated airflow can evenly sweep the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, promptly dispersing the accumulated nitrogen. This prevents nitrogen from forming an obstruction layer on the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, reducing the obstruction to oxygen molecules passing through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, allowing oxygen molecules to enter the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 more smoothly, thereby improving the gas separation efficiency of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Furthermore, dispersing the nitrogen also ensures smoother gas flow within the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. Fresh air can be promptly replenished around the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, providing a continuous gas source for the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, enabling the deoxygenation process to proceed continuously and stably.

[0045] In addition, the operation of the electric heating wire 90 raises the temperature of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 to 12 degrees Celsius, while the fan 100 is activated to promote gas flow. The synergistic effect of these two processes significantly improves gas diffusion capacity. The increased temperature intensifies the thermal motion of gas molecules, leading to more frequent collisions and faster diffusion. The airflow generated by the fan 100 further accelerates the movement and mixing of gas molecules, allowing oxygen molecules to diffuse more quickly from the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 to the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 and into the cluster. This also facilitates the distribution and discharge of other gases within the chamber 30. The improved gas diffusion capacity directly accelerates the oxygen reduction rate. More oxygen can be extracted and separated in a shorter time, allowing the oxygen content in the preservation area to decrease to the set target value more quickly, improving the efficiency of oxygen reduction and preservation, and better meeting the needs of food preservation. Furthermore, by using the fan 100 to disperse nitrogen and maintain a suitable temperature, fluctuations in oxygen reduction efficiency caused by gas enrichment and low temperatures are reduced, ensuring relatively stable oxygen reduction performance under different operating conditions and improving the reliability and stability of the device.

[0046] Preferably, multiple fans 100 are evenly distributed on both sides of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30.

[0047] Specifically, multiple fans 100 are evenly distributed on both sides of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, forming a comprehensive and uniform airflow circulation. The airflow can cover every corner of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, avoiding the problem of poor gas flow in localized areas. This allows for thorough mixing of the air within the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, ensuring a uniform distribution of oxygen and other gases, providing favorable conditions for gas separation within the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Furthermore, the strong airflow generated by the fans 100 accelerates gas exchange between the inside and outside of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. During the deoxygenation process, the first vacuum pump 70 draws air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. The fans 100 quickly mix the newly entered air with the existing air in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and propel the air towards the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Simultaneously, the fans 100 also promptly disperse nitrogen and other gases separated from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, accelerating the deoxygenation process. In addition, the uniform airflow and suitable temperature environment (maintained through the combined action of heat dissipation by the fans 100 and the electric heating wire 90) optimize the working environment of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. The diffusion rate of gas molecules on the surface of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is accelerated, allowing oxygen molecules to pass through the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 more smoothly into the extraction chamber 40, while other gases pass through relatively less, thereby improving the gas separation efficiency of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60.

[0048] In one embodiment, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is sealed at one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, and the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is composed of several oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, with cavities formed inside the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, and the cavities are exposed to the extraction chamber 40.

[0049] Specifically, oxygen-enriched membrane fibers 61 are prepared using specialized hollow fiber membrane production technology. Using specific polymer materials (such as polysulfone, polyethersulfone, etc.) as raw materials, the raw materials are heated and melted through a spinning process, then extruded through a spinneret and solidified in a specific cooling medium (such as air or water) to form hollow oxygen-enriched membrane fibers 61. During production, spinning process parameters, such as extrusion speed, cooling temperature, and draw ratio, are strictly controlled to ensure that the pore size, porosity, and mechanical strength of the oxygen-enriched membrane fibers 61 meet the requirements. Several produced oxygen-enriched membrane fibers 61 are assembled into an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 according to a specific arrangement (such as parallel arrangement or braided bundle). During assembly, one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane fiber 61 is sealed using an adhesive or sealing material to ensure that the internal cavity of the oxygen-enriched membrane fiber 61 does not communicate with the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 at that end. Simultaneously, the sealed end of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 must be flat and secure to prevent air leakage. The assembled oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is installed into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. A special installation structure, such as a slot or bracket, is provided at one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 to fix the sealed end of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 to the installation structure, so that the other end (unsealed end) of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is connected to the interior of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, while the cavity inside the oxygen-enriched membrane filament 61 is exposed to the extraction chamber 40. During installation, attention should be paid to the position and angle of the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 to ensure that it can perform its gas separation function normally.

[0050] In other words, the oxygen-enriched membrane filament 61 is a hollow fiber membrane with a specific pore structure and chemical properties, enabling selective permeation of different gas molecules. During the oxygen reduction process, after air enters the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, oxygen molecules, due to their smaller size and faster diffusion speed, preferentially pass through the pore walls of the oxygen-enriched membrane filament 61 into the internal cavity. Gases with larger molecular sizes and slower diffusion speeds, such as nitrogen, are mostly blocked outside the oxygen-enriched membrane filament 61 and remain inside the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. This selective permeation allows the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 to efficiently separate oxygen from the air. Furthermore, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, composed of several oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, has a large specific surface area, increasing the contact area between the gas and the filaments. More gas molecules can simultaneously contact and separate from the filaments, thereby improving the gas separation efficiency and accelerating the oxygen reduction rate. Furthermore, the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 is sealed at one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, preventing gas from directly entering the extraction chamber 40 and ensuring that only oxygen separated by the oxygen-enriched membrane fiber 61 can enter the extraction chamber 40. This design guarantees the stability and accuracy of gas delivery, avoids unseparated gas from entering the extraction chamber 40, and improves the quality of oxygen reduction. The cavity inside the oxygen-enriched membrane fiber 61 is exposed to the extraction chamber 40, allowing the separated oxygen to smoothly pass through the cavity into the extraction chamber 40 and be extracted by the second vacuum pump.

[0051] In one embodiment, the diameter of the oxygen-enriched membrane filament 61 is 0.1-0.5 mm.

[0052] Specifically, the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61 with a diameter in the range of 0.1-0.5 mm have suitable pore size and porosity, enabling better selective separation of oxygen and other gases. The smaller diameter helps form a more uniform pore structure, allowing oxygen molecules to pass more easily through the pore walls of the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, while molecules such as nitrogen have relatively more difficulty passing through, thus improving the selectivity of gas separation. The oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61 in this diameter range have a larger specific surface area, increasing the contact area between the gas and the membrane filaments 61. More gas molecules can simultaneously interact with the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, improving gas separation efficiency and accelerating the deoxygenation rate. Furthermore, the 0.1-0.5 mm diameter oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61, while ensuring gas separation performance, possess sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the pressure difference between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 and the extraction chamber 40. During the deoxygenation and preservation process in the refrigerator, the oxygen-enriched membrane filaments 61 need to withstand a certain pressure without rupture or deformation, ensuring the stable operation of the gas separation process. The diameter of the oxygen-enriched film filaments 61 allows them to adapt to the working environment inside the refrigerator, such as temperature and humidity changes. During long-term use, environmental factors will not cause a decrease in mechanical strength, ensuring the service life of the oxygen-enriched film cluster 60. Furthermore, the oxygen-enriched film filaments 61 with a diameter of 0.1-0.5mm, when assembled into the oxygen-enriched film cluster 60, can achieve high gas separation capacity within a limited space. This avoids the problem of excessive space occupation in the oxygen-enriched film compartment 30 due to an excessively large diameter, and also avoids the increased assembly difficulty and cost due to an excessively small diameter.

[0053] In one embodiment, the air-cooled outer casing 20 is provided with an air inlet door 21 and an air outlet door 22.

[0054] Specifically, air inlets and outlets are provided at appropriate locations on the air-cooled outer casing 20, and air inlet doors 21 and air outlet doors 22 are installed. Air inlet doors 21 and air outlet doors 22 can be electric or mechanical valves, securely installed on the air-cooled outer casing 20 using screws, rivets, or other fixing methods. During installation, ensure a tight seal between the doors and the outer casing to prevent air leakage. A temperature sensor is installed in the preservation area to monitor the temperature. The temperature sensor is connected to the control system via wires, transmitting the monitored data to the control system. A suitable controller, such as a microcontroller or programmable logic controller (PLC), is selected and programmed according to the system's control requirements. The programming logic includes: when the first vacuum pump 70 and the second vacuum pump stop working, the controller receives relevant signals and automatically opens the air inlet 80 through the control circuit; at the same time, it controls the air inlet 21 to open, allowing the cold air generated by the external refrigeration unit to enter the air-cooled outer casing 20; according to the feedback signal from the temperature sensor, it adjusts the opening of the air inlet 21 to control the amount of cold air entering the air-cooled outer casing 20, thereby achieving precise control of the temperature of the preservation area; when the set temperature or time condition is reached, it controls the air outlet 22 to open and discharge the gas inside the air-cooled outer casing 20.

[0055] In one embodiment, the drawer cover 10 is further provided with an oxygen sensor 110, which is used to detect the oxygen content of the preservation area.

[0056] Specifically, a suitable oxygen sensor 110 is selected based on the environmental characteristics and detection accuracy requirements of the fresh-keeping area. Considering the potential for low temperatures and humidity inside the refrigerator, a sensor with good low-temperature resistance and moisture resistance should be selected. For example, the electrochemical oxygen sensor 110 has high sensitivity and accuracy and can operate stably over a wide temperature range, making it suitable for detecting oxygen content in the refrigerator's fresh-keeping area. The oxygen sensor 110 is installed in a suitable location on the drawer cover 10. The installation location should accurately reflect the overall oxygen content of the fresh-keeping area, avoiding installation in ventilation dead zones or near heat or cold sources to prevent affecting the accuracy of the detection results. Generally, the sensor can be installed at the top or the middle of the side of the drawer cover 10. The signal output terminal of the oxygen sensor 110 is connected to the refrigerator's control system via a wire. Cables with good shielding performance should be used to reduce the impact of external electromagnetic interference on signal transmission. During connection, attention should be paid to the polarity of the wires to ensure that the signal is correctly transmitted to the control system. Corresponding control logic is written in the refrigerator's control system. After the oxygen sensor 110 reads the oxygen content in the fresh-keeping area in real time, it transmits the detection data to the control system. The control system analyzes and judges the received data. When it detects that the oxygen content is less than 10%, it triggers a command to shut down the oxygen reduction mode. After the command to shut down the oxygen reduction mode is issued, the control system sends a signal to the control circuit of the vacuum pumps, causing both vacuum pumps to stop working.

[0057] In other words, by monitoring the oxygen content in the preservation area in real time and shutting off the deoxygenation mode and vacuum pump when the oxygen content falls below 10%, the oxygen content within the preservation area can be precisely controlled, preventing excessive deoxygenation that could lead to excessively low oxygen levels. Too low an oxygen content can negatively impact the quality of certain foods, such as causing an imbalance in the redox reactions, affecting the taste and nutritional components. Furthermore, maintaining the oxygen content in the preservation area within a suitable range creates a suitable preservation environment for the food. Most foods maintain their freshness and quality well in an environment with an oxygen content of around 10%, extending their shelf life.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first vacuum pump 70 is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 via an exhaust pipe 120.

[0059] Specifically, considering that the exhaust pipe 120 needs to withstand a certain pressure and be compatible with the gas composition (which may contain trace amounts of water vapor) within the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, corrosion-resistant, high-strength plastic pipes (such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes or polypropylene (PP) pipes) or metal pipes (such as stainless steel pipes) are typically selected. Plastic pipes offer advantages such as light weight, low cost, and easy installation; metal pipes, on the other hand, have higher strength and pressure resistance, making them suitable for applications requiring high pipe strength. Matching connectors are selected based on the exhaust port size and shape of the first vacuum pump 70. Connectors can be flanges, clamps, or quick couplings. Ensure that the connectors are compatible with the dimensions of the exhaust port of the first vacuum pump 70 and the exhaust pipe 120 to guarantee a tight connection. Connect one end of the exhaust pipe 120 to the exhaust port of the first vacuum pump 70 using the connector. Apply sealant or use a sealing gasket at the connection point to enhance the sealing effect. High-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant silicone sealant can be selected, and rubber gaskets or PTFE gaskets can be used. An opening is made at a suitable location in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, the size of which should match the outer diameter of the exhaust pipe 120. The opening should be located at the top or side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, avoiding interference with other components within the chamber. The other end of the exhaust pipe 120 can be connected to the opening in the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 in a manner similar to that used for the first vacuum pump 70. Flanges, clamps, or welding can be used to ensure a secure and well-sealed connection. To prevent the exhaust pipe 120 from shaking or falling off during use, it needs to be fixed and supported. Pipe clamps, brackets, or other fixing devices can be used to secure the exhaust pipe 120 to the refrigerator frame or other suitable structure.

[0060] In other words, the first vacuum pump 70 is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 via the exhaust pipe 120, enabling it to quickly draw air from the preservation area into the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30. Furthermore, proper connection and sealing of the exhaust pipe 120 effectively prevents gas leakage. Gas leakage not only affects the oxygen-reducing preservation effect but can also damage other components inside the refrigerator and even pose safety hazards. Good sealing performance ensures stable system operation and protects user safety.

[0061] In one embodiment, the air vent 80 is connected to the preservation area via an insulation pipe.

[0062] Specifically, to effectively reduce heat transfer and maintain a low-temperature environment in the preservation area, insulation pipes are usually made of materials with good thermal insulation properties. Common types include polyurethane foam insulation pipes, whose internal polyurethane foam has an extremely low thermal conductivity, effectively preventing heat conduction; and rubber-plastic insulation pipes, which are soft, elastic, and have certain flame-retardant properties, making them suitable for use in environments like refrigerators where safety is a priority.

[0063] In other words, the presence of the insulation pipe effectively prevents external heat from being transferred into the preservation area through the channel between the air vent 80 and the preservation area. Insulation materials such as polyurethane foam or rubber and plastic can significantly reduce heat transfer efficiency, maintaining a low-temperature environment within the preservation area and extending the shelf life of food. Furthermore, the insulation pipe provides a clear channel for gas entering from the air vent 80, allowing the gas to rapidly diffuse into the preservation area along a predetermined path. This helps improve the uniformity of gas diffusion, ensuring that all parts of the preservation area receive the necessary gas components in a timely manner, such as the gas diffused from the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, thus achieving uniform cooling.

[0064] In one embodiment, the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 is located above the air-cooled outer cover 20, and the air extraction chamber 40 is arranged side by side on the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30.

[0065] Specifically, the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30 is positioned above the air-cooled outer cover 20, and the air extraction compartment 40 is arranged side-by-side on the side of the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30. This fully utilizes previously unused or difficult-to-use space inside the refrigerator, making the entire oxygen-reducing preservation device more compact. This compact structural design provides sufficient installation space for the oxygen-reducing preservation system without increasing the overall size of the refrigerator, thus improving the utilization rate of the refrigerator's internal space. Furthermore, the compact layout provides greater flexibility for the installation and arrangement of other components inside the refrigerator. For example, areas such as the refrigerator compartment and freezer compartment can be rationally arranged around the oxygen-enriched membrane compartment 30 and the air extraction compartment 40, resulting in a more rational allocation of the refrigerator's internal space.

[0066] In one embodiment, the evacuation chamber 40 is a completely sealed chamber, and the side of the evacuation chamber 40 is provided with an evacuation port 41 for connecting to a second vacuum pump.

[0067] Specifically, select a suitable suction port 41 based on the interface type and specifications of the second vacuum pump. Common interface types include flange interfaces, clamp interfaces, and threaded interfaces. If the second vacuum pump uses a flange connection, the suction chamber 40 should also be equipped with a corresponding flange interface; if a clamp connection is used, a clamp interface can be selected. Additionally, select pipes of appropriate specifications and materials to connect the suction port 41 to the second vacuum pump. The pipe material can be a stainless steel flexible hose or a rigid metal pipe, selected based on the actual installation space and requirements. If installation space is limited and pipe bending is required, stainless steel flexible hoses offer better flexibility and are easier to install. Connection methods can include flange connections, clamp connections, or welding, ensuring a secure connection and good sealing.

[0068] In other words, the completely sealed extraction chamber 40 prevents gas leakage, allowing the second vacuum pump to fully utilize its extraction capacity and quickly remove the gas from the extraction chamber 40, thereby improving the extraction efficiency of the entire oxygen-reducing preservation system. During the oxygen-reducing preservation process in the refrigerator, efficient extraction accelerates oxygen separation, rapidly reducing the oxygen content in the preservation area for better preservation. Furthermore, the sealed extraction chamber 40 prevents outside air from entering, ensuring the stability of the internal pressure and gas composition of the extraction system.

[0069] This utility model also discloses a refrigerator, including the oxygen-reducing and preservation device described above.

[0070] Specifically, by setting up an oxygen-reducing preservation device, and using a first vacuum pump 70 to extract air from the preservation area to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30, while a second vacuum pump extracts oxygen from the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60, a negative pressure is created inside the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. Under this pressure difference, oxygen in the air inside the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber 30 can quickly enter the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60 and then be extracted by the second vacuum pump. This dual-vacuum-pump collaborative operation greatly accelerates the speed at which oxygen is extracted and separated from the preservation area, significantly reducing the oxygen concentration in the preservation area in a short time and effectively suppressing oxygen deficiency. This device reduces the oxidative spoilage process of food, thereby better preserving its freshness and nutritional components and extending its shelf life. Furthermore, in the low-temperature operating environment of a refrigerator, the gas separation efficiency of existing nitrogen-oxygen separation membranes is affected by reduced gas molecule activity, leading to a slower oxygen reduction rate. This device, however, uses dual vacuum pumps working in tandem to create a pressure difference, promoting faster oxygen entry into the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster 60. This effectively overcomes the adverse effects of reduced gas molecule activity on the performance of the nitrogen-oxygen separation membrane under low-temperature conditions, ensuring efficient oxygen reduction and preservation even at low temperatures.

[0071] The above embodiments are preferred implementations of this utility model. In addition, this utility model can also be implemented in other ways. Any obvious substitutions without departing from the concept of this technical solution are within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An oxygen-reducing fresh-keeping device, characterized by comprising: include: The system comprises a drawer cover, a cooling outer cover, an oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, and an extraction chamber. The drawer cover forms a preservation area. The cooling outer cover is located on the outer periphery of the drawer cover. An insulation layer is provided between the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber and the cooling outer cover. The extraction chamber is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber via an oxygen-enriched membrane cluster. The drawer cover is equipped with a first vacuum pump, which is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber. The extraction chamber is connected to a second vacuum pump. The oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is equipped with an air vent, which is connected to the preservation area via a pipe.

2. The oxygen reduction fresh-keeping device according to claim 1, characterized by The oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is also equipped with an electric heating wire.

3. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oxygen-enriched membrane chamber is also equipped with multiple fans on its side.

4. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oxygen-enriched membrane cluster is sealed at one end of the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber, and the oxygen-enriched membrane cluster is composed of several oxygen-enriched membrane filaments. The oxygen-enriched membrane filaments have cavities inside, and the cavities are exposed to the extraction chamber.

5. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The diameter of the oxygen-enriched membrane fiber is 0.1-0.5 mm.

6. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, wherein The air-cooled outer casing is equipped with an air inlet door and an air outlet door.

7. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, wherein The drawer cover is also equipped with an oxygen sensor, which is used to detect the oxygen content in the preservation area.

8. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, wherein The first vacuum pump is connected to the oxygen-enriched membrane chamber via an exhaust pipe.

9. The oxygen reducing fresh keeping device according to claim 1, wherein The air vent is connected to the preservation area via an insulated pipe.

10. A refrigerator characterized by comprising: Includes the oxygen-reducing preservation device as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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