Refrigerator

Abstract

The application provides a refrigerator, which comprises a vacuum chamber and a vacuum pump connected with the vacuum chamber and used for pumping the vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber comprises a first vacuum chamber and a second vacuum chamber, and the vacuum pump comprises a first vacuum pump, a second vacuum pump and a third vacuum pump. The first vacuum pump is connected with the first vacuum chamber and used for pumping the first vacuum chamber; the second vacuum pump is connected with the second vacuum chamber and used for pumping the second vacuum chamber; and the third vacuum pump is connected with the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber respectively, so that the third vacuum pump can pump the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber. The third vacuum pump can share the operation time of the other two vacuum pumps, shorten the single use time of the other two vacuum pumps, reduce the loss speed of the service life of the other two vacuum pumps, reduce the mechanical loss caused by temperature accumulation, improve the service life of the whole vacuum pumping assembly, shorten the vacuum pumping time each time and accelerate the vacuum pumping rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application falls under the field of household appliances, and more specifically, relates to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Refrigerators are common household appliances, primarily functioning to slow down food spoilage by maintaining low temperatures. With increasing demands for food preservation, refrigerators with vacuum storage functions have emerged. These refrigerators have a dedicated vacuum chamber inside; food is placed inside, and a vacuum environment is created by removing air. In a vacuum state, factors in the air that cause food spoilage are suppressed, allowing food to be preserved for longer.

[0003] However, the vacuum components in these refrigerators generally have a short lifespan during use. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a refrigerator to solve the technical problem of insufficient service life of the vacuuming components in existing refrigerators.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is: to provide a refrigerator, the refrigerator comprising:

[0006] Vacuum chamber; a vacuum chamber is used for the vacuum storage of stored items;

[0007] Vacuum pump; The vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the vacuum chamber.

[0008] The vacuum chamber includes a first vacuum chamber and a second vacuum chamber;

[0009] The vacuum pump includes a first vacuum pump, a second vacuum pump, and a third vacuum pump. The first vacuum pump is connected to the first vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the first vacuum chamber. The second vacuum pump is connected to the second vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the second vacuum chamber. The third vacuum pump is connected to both the first and second vacuum chambers so that the third vacuum pump can evacuate both the first and second vacuum chambers.

[0010] Optionally, the refrigerator also includes a three-way valve, which includes a main pipe, a first branch pipe and a second branch pipe. The main pipe is connected to a third vacuum pump, the first branch pipe is connected to a first vacuum chamber and the second branch pipe is connected to a second vacuum chamber.

[0011] The three-way valve includes a first state and a second state;

[0012] In the first state, the main pipe and the first branch pipe are connected, and the main pipe is disconnected from the second branch pipe;

[0013] In the second state, the main pipe and the second branch pipe are connected, and the main pipe is disconnected from the first branch pipe.

[0014] Optionally, mounting bases for installing vacuum pumps are provided on both sides of the vacuum chamber so that the mounting bases on the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged in the same way.

[0015] And / or, the vacuum chamber is provided with a mounting position for installing a three-way valve, and the mounting positions on the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged in the same way.

[0016] Optionally, the first vacuum pump is mounted on one of the mounting bases of the first vacuum chamber, the second vacuum pump is mounted on one of the mounting bases of the second vacuum chamber, and the third vacuum pump is mounted on another mounting base of the first or second vacuum chamber.

[0017] Optionally, the mounting base is provided with an air extraction port that connects to the vacuum chamber, and the vacuum pump is connected to the air extraction port.

[0018] Optionally, the mounting base on the first vacuum chamber includes a first mounting base and a second mounting base, and the mounting base on the second vacuum chamber includes a third mounting base and a fourth mounting base;

[0019] The first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged side by side, and the second mounting base and the third mounting base are adjacent to each other;

[0020] The first vacuum pump is mounted on the first mounting base and connected to the air extraction port of the first mounting base; the second vacuum pump is mounted on the fourth mounting base and connected to the air extraction port of the fourth mounting base.

[0021] The third vacuum pump is mounted on the third mounting base. The first branch pipe is connected to the air extraction port of the second mounting base, and the second branch pipe is connected to the air extraction port of the third mounting base.

[0022] Optionally, both the first vacuum pump and the second vacuum pump are connected to the main pipe.

[0023] Optionally, the three-way valve includes a third state in which the main pipe and the first branch pipe are disconnected, and the valve is also disconnected from the second branch pipe.

[0024] Optionally, the refrigerator includes a pressure sensor located on the main pipe.

[0025] Optionally, a removable vacuum storage box is provided inside the vacuum chamber, and a one-way evacuation valve is provided on the vacuum storage box. The one-way evacuation valve is configured to allow one-way flow from the inside of the vacuum storage box to the outside of the vacuum storage box.

[0026] The beneficial effects of the refrigerator provided in this application are as follows: Compared with the prior art, the refrigerator in this application embodiment, in addition to the two vacuum pumps corresponding to the two vacuum chambers, also has a third vacuum pump. The third vacuum pump is connected to both vacuum chambers, so that both vacuum chambers can be evacuated. The third vacuum pump can share the operating time of the other two vacuum pumps, thereby reducing the rate of wear and tear on the other two vacuum pumps and thus increasing the service life of the entire vacuuming assembly. Furthermore, the presence of the third vacuum pump can also shorten the single-use time of the other two vacuum pumps, thereby reducing mechanical wear caused by temperature accumulation and further extending their service life. In addition, the third vacuum pump and the other two vacuum pumps can work simultaneously, which can shorten the time of each vacuuming and speed up the vacuuming rate. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, 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 application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the front side of the vacuum chamber in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the rear side of the vacuum chamber in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the vacuum pump and three-way valve in one embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the vacuum pump and three-way valve in another embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the pressure sensor in one embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the pressure sensor in another embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the placement of the vacuum storage box in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the vacuum storage box in the embodiments of this application.

[0037] The reference numerals in the figures are as follows: Refrigerator 100; First vacuum chamber 11; Mounting base 111; First mounting base 1111; Second mounting base 1112; Third mounting base 1113; Fourth mounting base 1114; Mounting position 112; Vacuum port 113; Second vacuum chamber 12; First vacuum pump 21; Second vacuum pump 22; Third vacuum pump 23; Three-way valve 3; Main pipe 31; First branch pipe 32; Second branch pipe 33; Pressure sensor 4; Vacuum storage box 5; One-way vacuum valve 51. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0039] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0040] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0041] 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 application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0042] Refrigerators with vacuum storage features a dedicated vacuum chamber, a well-sealed area isolated from other storage spaces. To vacuum store food, the food is placed inside, the door is closed, and the vacuum system activates. Connected to the vacuum chamber via specific pipes, the system gradually removes air, creating a near-vacuum environment. In this environment, factors that promote oxidation and spoilage are significantly reduced, slowing down the deterioration process. Compared to regular refrigeration, this keeps food fresh longer and better preserves its flavor and nutrients.

[0043] However, the vacuum components in these refrigerators generally suffer from insufficient lifespan during use. After disassembling and studying numerous used vacuum refrigerators and analyzing the relevant data, it was found that the insufficient lifespan of the vacuum components is primarily due to the short lifespan of the vacuum pump, its core component. The vacuum pump is crucial for the vacuum system to achieve its evacuation function; it mechanically expels air from the vacuum chamber. Over long-term use, the vacuum pump gradually loses its original performance due to wear and tear from continuous operation and component aging, eventually failing to function properly, thus rendering the entire vacuum component ineffective. Therefore, extending the lifespan of the vacuum pump is key to extending the lifespan of the vacuum component.

[0044] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described. The refrigerator includes:

[0045] Vacuum chamber; a vacuum chamber is used for the vacuum storage of stored items;

[0046] Vacuum pump; The vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the vacuum chamber.

[0047] The vacuum chamber includes a first vacuum chamber 11 and a second vacuum chamber 12;

[0048] The first vacuum pump 21 is connected to the first vacuum chamber 11 and is used to evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11; the second vacuum pump 22 is connected to the second vacuum chamber 12 and is used to evacuate the second vacuum chamber 12; the third vacuum pump 23 is connected to both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 so that the third vacuum pump 23 can evacuate both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12.

[0049] Vacuum chambers are used to achieve vacuum storage; however, it's important to note that "vacuum" here does not refer to absolute vacuum, but rather to a negative pressure environment relatively below atmospheric pressure. Vacuum chambers can take various forms, such as enclosed box structures, or... Figure 2and Figure 3 The drawer design is shown. In this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 has multiple vacuum chambers, including a first vacuum chamber 11 and a second vacuum chamber 12. Different vacuum chambers can store different foods. For example, the first vacuum chamber 11 can be used to store fruits, vegetables, and other foods that require moisture retention. Its internal space is relatively independent, which can prevent cross-contamination of odors with other foods. The second vacuum chamber 12 can be used to store meat, seafood, etc., because its good sealing performance can reduce the external influences on these foods during storage. In addition to the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12, there can be more other vacuum chambers.

[0050] To create a vacuum environment in a vacuum chamber, a corresponding vacuum pumping assembly is required. The vacuum pump is the core component of this assembly, and its main function is to evacuate the vacuum chamber to achieve vacuum storage. The vacuum pumping assembly typically also includes other auxiliary components such as piping and valves.

[0051] In this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 is equipped with multiple vacuum pumps, including a first vacuum pump 21, a second vacuum pump 22, and a third vacuum pump 23. The first vacuum pump 21 is connected to the first vacuum chamber 11 and is responsible for evacuating the first vacuum chamber 11. The second vacuum pump 22 is connected to the second vacuum chamber 12 and is responsible for evacuating the second vacuum chamber 12. The third vacuum pump 23 is connected to both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12, and can evacuate both chambers. In addition to the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22, there can be other vacuum pumps as well.

[0052] When it is necessary to evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11, the first vacuum pump 21 can be started to work alone, the third vacuum pump 23 can be started to work in conjunction with the first vacuum pump 21, or the third vacuum pump 23 can be started alone. Furthermore, the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22 can be used alternately to evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11. For example, the first vacuum pump 21 can be started first to evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11 for a period of time until a certain vacuum level is reached, then the first vacuum pump 21 can be turned off, and then the second vacuum pump 22 can be started to continue evacuating the first vacuum chamber 11 to the target vacuum level.

[0053] The situation is similar when evacuating the second vacuum chamber 12. The second vacuum pump 22 can be started to work alone, or the third vacuum pump 23 can work in conjunction with the second vacuum pump 22, or the third vacuum pump 23 can be started alone. When evacuating the second vacuum chamber 12, the second vacuum pump 22 and the third vacuum pump 23 can also be used alternately. The second vacuum pump 22 will evacuate for a period of time first, and then the third vacuum pump 23 will be switched to complete the remaining evacuation work.

[0054] Furthermore, the third vacuum pump 23 can work simultaneously with the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22. For example, when both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 need to be evacuated, the three vacuum pumps can perform evacuation operations on their respective vacuum chambers at the same time.

[0055] The third vacuum pump 23 can share the operating time of the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22. For example, if the first vacuum pump 21 originally needed to run for 5 minutes per day, with the third vacuum pump 23, it may only need to run for 3 minutes per day, with the third vacuum pump 23 completing the remaining 2 minutes. This reduces the rate of wear and tear on the first vacuum pump 21. Furthermore, the alternating use of the first and second vacuum pumps 22, and the second and third vacuum pumps 23, further reduces the continuous operating time of a single vacuum pump. For example, if the first vacuum pump 21 originally needed to run continuously for 2 minutes at a time, with the alternating method, it would run for 1 minute, followed by 1 minute of operation from the second vacuum pump 22, avoiding excessive wear and tear caused by prolonged continuous operation of the first vacuum pump 21. Simultaneously, the presence of the third vacuum pump 23 and the alternating usage mode shorten the single-use time of the first and second vacuum pumps 22, reducing mechanical wear caused by temperature accumulation, further extending their service life, and thus improving the overall service life of the vacuum assembly. Since the lifespan of each vacuum pump is relatively limited, the evacuation time of the three pumps can be automatically calculated, and the operating time of each vacuum pump can be controlled to be approximately the same. In this way, the use of each vacuum pump can be dynamically adjusted, thereby preventing individual vacuum pumps from being damaged prematurely due to overuse, and thus extending the lifespan of the vacuum pumping assembly.

[0056] The third vacuum pump 23 can operate simultaneously with the first and second vacuum pumps 22. For example, when evacuating the first vacuum chamber 11, the first vacuum pump 21 and the third vacuum pump 23 start simultaneously. Where the first vacuum pump 21 alone would normally take 3 minutes to complete evacuation, now with both working simultaneously, it may only take 2 minutes, significantly shortening the evacuation time and accelerating the evacuation rate. Furthermore, although the alternating operation involves sequential work, it allows another vacuum pump to take over when a single pump needs a short rest, avoiding efficiency drops due to individual pump fatigue. This ensures a smooth and efficient evacuation process overall, thus improving evacuation efficiency.

[0057] In traditional technology, the problem of insufficient vacuum pump lifespan is often addressed by extending the lifespan of individual vacuum pumps. This approach is either ineffective or extremely costly. For example, typically, two vacuum chambers use one high-flow, long-life vacuum pump, or two low-flow vacuum pumps. The main cost component of a vacuum pump lies in the motor. Traditional brushed motors are inexpensive but have insufficient lifespan, while brushless motors have a long lifespan but are more expensive. Although replacing a brushed motor with a brushless motor can significantly improve the lifespan of a vacuum pump, brushless motors are also more expensive. A vacuum pump with a low-flow brushed motor (rated flow 1.5L-2.8L) typically costs 12-15 yuan, while a low-flow brushless motor (rated flow 1L-2.8L) costs 35-45 yuan, and a high-flow brushless motor (rated flow 3.5L / min-4.5L / min) costs 80-100 yuan. The solution in this embodiment achieves the lifespan of a brushless motor vacuum pump using three brushed motor vacuum pumps, at a cost of only 36-45 yuan. The additional cost of valves and piping is at most 10-15 yuan, bringing the total cost to 46-60 yuan. This represents a significant cost advantage compared to using two brushless motors (costing 70-90 yuan) or a single high-flow brushless motor (costing 80-100 yuan). Furthermore, employing brushless motor vacuum pumps in this embodiment can significantly extend the lifespan of the vacuum pumping components.

[0058] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator 100 further includes a three-way valve 3, which includes a main pipe 31, a first branch pipe 32, and a second branch pipe 33. The main pipe 31 is connected to the third vacuum pump 23, the first branch pipe 32 is connected to the first vacuum chamber 11, and the second branch pipe 33 is connected to the second vacuum chamber 12. The three-way valve 3 includes a first state and a second state. In the first state, the main pipe 31 and the first branch pipe 32 are connected, and the main pipe 31 is disconnected from the second branch pipe 33. In the second state, the main pipe 31 and the second branch pipe 33 are connected, and the main pipe 32 is disconnected from the first branch pipe 32.

[0059] The three-way valve 3 is a key component connecting the third vacuum pump 23 with the first and second vacuum chambers 12. It consists of a main pipe 31, a first branch pipe 32, and a second branch pipe 33. The main pipe 31 is directly connected to the third vacuum pump 23, the first branch pipe 32 is connected to the first vacuum chamber 11, and the second branch pipe 33 is connected to the second vacuum chamber 12.

[0060] The three-way valve 3 is used to control the passage between the third vacuum pump 23 and the two vacuum chambers. For example, when the third vacuum pump 23 needs to evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11, the three-way valve 3 switches to the first state through internal structural adjustment. At this time, the main pipe 31 and the first branch pipe 32 form a passage, and the pumping power generated by the third vacuum pump 23 can directly act on the first vacuum chamber 11. When it is necessary to evacuate the second vacuum chamber 12, the three-way valve 3 switches to the second state, the main pipe 31 and the second branch pipe 33 are connected, and the pumping power is directed to the second vacuum chamber 12.

[0061] The three-way valve 3 enables directional pumping through state switching, allowing the third vacuum pump 23 to more precisely distribute the load between the first and second vacuum pumps 22. For example, when the first vacuum pump 21 is severely worn, the three-way valve 3 can control the third vacuum pump 23 to focus on pumping air from the first vacuum chamber 11, reducing the starting frequency of the first vacuum pump 21. Simultaneously, the structural design of the three-way valve 3 simplifies the connection piping between the third vacuum pump 23 and the two vacuum chambers, reducing the risk of piping leaks and indirectly reducing wear on the pumping components due to sealing issues. This aligns with the original design philosophy of extending service life and further enhances the stability of the entire vacuum system.

[0062] In addition to the first and second states, the three-way valve 3 can also have a third state in which the main pipe 31, the first branch pipe 32, and the second branch pipe 33 are all disconnected, and a fourth state in which the main pipe 31, the first branch pipe 32, and the second branch pipe 33 are all connected.

[0063] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, mounting bases 111 for installing vacuum pumps are provided on both sides of the vacuum chamber, so that the mounting bases 111 on the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 are arranged in the same way.

[0064] Both sides of the vacuum chamber are equipped with mounting bases 111 for installing vacuum pumps. The mounting bases 111 are designed to accommodate vacuum pumps and their specific structure is adapted to the vacuum pump. The mounting bases 111 on the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 are arranged identically. This means that when installing vacuum pumps, there is no need to distinguish the different mounting positions 112 of the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12. Whether the first vacuum pump 21 is installed in the first vacuum chamber 11 or the second vacuum pump 22 is installed in the second vacuum chamber 12, a unified installation method can be used. Vacuum chambers of the same model can be used either as the first vacuum chamber 11 to cooperate with the first vacuum pump 21, or as the second vacuum chamber 12 to connect with the second vacuum pump 22, without the need for separate installation structures designed for different vacuum chambers.

[0065] Thus, only one type of vacuum chamber needs to be produced to simultaneously meet the requirements of both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12. This reduces the number of vacuum chamber models to be produced, lowers mold development costs, and eliminates the need to design and manufacture molds separately for the two types of vacuum chambers. Simultaneously, it eliminates the need to differentiate between production batches and processes for different models of vacuum chambers on the production line, simplifying production scheduling and quality control, and improving production efficiency. During assembly, workers do not need to identify the specific model of the vacuum chamber; they can directly select the same type of vacuum chamber for both the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 for installation. This reduces the number of model verification steps during assembly, lowers the probability of assembly errors due to model confusion, and speeds up the overall assembly process. When a vacuum chamber is damaged and needs replacement, there is no need to specifically search for a corresponding model of spare part; a single, universal vacuum chamber can be used for replacement. This simplifies spare parts inventory management, reduces inventory costs, shortens maintenance cycles, and improves the convenience of repair.

[0066] Similarly, please see Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, a mounting position 112 for installing a three-way valve 3 is provided on the vacuum chamber, and the mounting positions 112 on the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 are arranged in the same way.

[0067] The mounting position 112 on the vacuum chamber for installing the three-way valve 3 is a structure designed to fix the three-way valve 3. The mounting position 112 may include protrusions or grooves for positioning, and screw holes or clips for fixing. Since the mounting positions 112 are arranged identically, a vacuum chamber of the same model can be used as either the first vacuum chamber 11 or the second vacuum chamber 12. During assembly, there is no need to differentiate between vacuum chamber models; simply selecting the same type of vacuum chamber and pairing it with the three-way valve 3 is sufficient to connect it to different vacuum chambers, further enhancing the versatility of the vacuum chamber. In the production process, the mounting positions 112 on the vacuum chamber only need to be manufactured according to a unified standard, eliminating the need to design different mounting structures for the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12, reducing the complexity of the production process and minimizing production errors caused by structural differences. During assembly, workers can install the three-way valve 3 onto the mounting position 112 of any vacuum chamber using the same procedure, improving assembly efficiency and reducing assembly errors. When the three-way valve 3 or the vacuum chamber needs repair or replacement, the standardized specifications of the mounting positions 112 enhance the versatility of spare parts. Maintenance personnel no longer need to specifically search for a three-way valve 3 that matches a particular vacuum chamber or a vacuum chamber with a specific mounting position 112, which reduces the difficulty and cost of spare parts inventory, while also shortening maintenance time and improving the convenience of maintenance.

[0068] Please see Figure 3In some embodiments of this application, the first vacuum pump 21 is disposed on one of the mounting bases 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11, the second vacuum pump 22 is disposed on one of the mounting bases 111 of the second vacuum chamber 12, and the third vacuum pump 23 is disposed on the other mounting base 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11 or the second vacuum chamber 12.

[0069] The first vacuum pump 21 is mounted on one of the mounting bases 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11. This corresponding mounting relationship allows the first vacuum pump 21 to directly and efficiently form a pumping passage with the first vacuum chamber 11, reducing potential losses from additional piping connections. Similarly, the second vacuum pump 22 is mounted on one of the mounting bases 111 of the second vacuum chamber 12, ensuring a tight fit with the second vacuum chamber 12 and guaranteeing the stability of the pumping process.

[0070] The third vacuum pump 23 is installed on another mounting base 111 of either the first vacuum chamber 11 or the second vacuum chamber 12. Since the mounting bases 111 of the first and second vacuum chambers 11 and 12 are arranged identically, regardless of which vacuum chamber the third vacuum pump 23 is installed on, it can form a reasonable piping layout with the two vacuum chambers it needs to connect to. For example, if the third vacuum pump 23 is installed on another mounting base 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11, its connection to the first vacuum chamber 11 can remain stable thanks to the standardized mounting structure, while it can also be connected to the second vacuum chamber 12 via piping.

[0071] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, the mounting base 111 is provided with an air extraction port 113 that communicates with the vacuum chamber, and the vacuum pump is connected to the air extraction port 113.

[0072] The mounting base 111 is equipped with an air extraction port 113 that connects to the vacuum chamber. The vacuum pump is directly connected to the air extraction port 113, eliminating the need for long pipeline connections that may exist in traditional designs. For example, the first vacuum pump 21 can directly communicate with the internal space of the first vacuum chamber 11 through the air extraction port 113 on the mounting base 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11 without the need for additional extension pipelines; the connection between the second vacuum pump 22 and the second vacuum chamber 12, and the connection between the third vacuum pump 23 and the corresponding vacuum chamber, all follow the same direct docking method.

[0073] Please see Figure 4In some embodiments of this application, the mounting base 111 on the first vacuum chamber 11 includes a first mounting base 1111 and a second mounting base 1112, and the mounting base 111 on the second vacuum chamber 12 includes a third mounting base 1113 and a fourth mounting base 1114; the first vacuum chamber 11 and the second vacuum chamber 12 are arranged side by side, and the second mounting base 1112 and the third mounting base 1113 are adjacent; the first vacuum pump 21 is disposed on the first mounting base 1111 and connected to the air extraction port 113 of the first mounting base 1111, the second vacuum pump 22 is disposed on the fourth mounting base 1114 and connected to the air extraction port 113 of the fourth mounting base 1114; the third vacuum pump 23 is disposed on the third mounting base 1113, the main pipe 31 is connected to the third vacuum pump 23, the first branch pipe 32 is connected to the air extraction port 113 of the second mounting base 1112, and the second branch pipe 33 is connected to the air extraction port 113 of the third mounting base 1113.

[0074] The mounting base 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11 is divided into a first mounting base 1111 and a second mounting base 1112, and the mounting base 111 of the second vacuum chamber 12 is divided into a third mounting base 1113 and a fourth mounting base 1114. The two vacuum chambers are arranged side by side, and the second mounting base 1112 and the third mounting base 1113 are adjacent to each other. This layout makes the mounting bases 111 of the two vacuum chambers form a compact arrangement.

[0075] In terms of specific installation, the first vacuum pump 21 is located on the first mounting base 1111 and is directly connected to the evacuation port 113 of the mounting base 111, forming an evacuation passage with the first vacuum chamber 11. The second vacuum pump 22 is installed on the fourth mounting base 1114 and is connected to the second vacuum chamber 12 through the corresponding evacuation port 113, also forming an evacuation path. The third vacuum pump 23 is installed on the third mounting base 1113. The main pipe 31 is connected to the third vacuum pump 23. The first branch pipe 32 is connected to the evacuation port 113 of the second mounting base 1112, which is another port of the first vacuum chamber 11. The second branch pipe 33 is connected to the evacuation port 113 of the third mounting base 1113 itself, which is the port of the second vacuum chamber 12.

[0076] When the first vacuum pump 21 and the third vacuum pump 23 simultaneously evacuate the first vacuum chamber 11, the former pumps air through the first mounting base 1111 interface, and the latter pumps air through the second mounting base 1112 interface. The two pumping points create complementary airflow within the first vacuum chamber 11, accelerating air expulsion. Similarly, when the second vacuum pump 22 and the third vacuum pump 23 cooperate to evacuate the second vacuum chamber 12, they also achieve a synergistic effect through the interfaces of the fourth mounting base 1114 and the third mounting base 1113, shortening the evacuation time per cycle.

[0077] Please see Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, both the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22 are connected to the main pipe 31.

[0078] In this implementation, both the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22 are connected to the main pipe 31 of the three-way valve 3. The first vacuum pump 21 is no longer directly connected to the evacuation port 113 of the mounting base 111 of the first vacuum chamber 11, but is instead connected to the three-way valve 3 system through the main pipe 31. Similarly, the second vacuum pump 22 is disconnected from the direct connection to the evacuation port 113 of the mounting base 111 of the second vacuum chamber 12 and is connected to the main pipe 31. The third vacuum pump 23 continues to be connected to the main pipe 31. The three pumps converge through the main pipe 31 and then flow through branch pipes to the evacuation ports 113 of the two vacuum chambers respectively. Since the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22 are both connected to the three-way valve 3 through the main pipe 31, the two vacuum chambers do not need to have separate evacuation ports 113 for these two pumps; only one evacuation port 113 connected to the branch pipe is required for each pump. For example, the first vacuum chamber 11 only needs to retain the air extraction port 113 connected to the first branch pipe 32, and the second vacuum chamber 12 only needs to retain the air extraction port 113 connected to the second branch pipe 33, thus significantly reducing the overall number of air extraction ports 113.

[0079] The reduction in the number of evacuation ports 113 simplifies the manufacturing process of the vacuum chamber. Fewer ports mean fewer sealing points, reducing the risk of leakage due to poor sealing and improving the overall sealing and reliability of the vacuum chamber. The three vacuum pumps are connected to the three-way valve 3 via the main pipe 31. The evacuation power can be flexibly distributed by switching the state of the three-way valve 3 and coordinating the start and stop of each pump. For example, when evacuating the first vacuum chamber 11, the three-way valve 3 switches to the first state, allowing the first vacuum pump 21, the third vacuum pump 23, and even the second vacuum pump 22 to simultaneously operate through the main pipe 31 and the first branch pipe 32, significantly improving evacuation efficiency. Similarly, when evacuating the second vacuum chamber 12, the second vacuum pump 22, the third vacuum pump 23, and even the first vacuum pump 21 can work collaboratively, not only significantly improving evacuation efficiency but also making the evacuation process more controllable through this centralized control mode.

[0080] Furthermore, each vacuum chamber can be evacuated using three vacuum pumps operating in rotation, thus preventing premature exhaustion of the corresponding vacuum pump due to the frequent use of a single vacuum chamber. For example, for the first vacuum chamber 11, the first vacuum pump 21, the second vacuum pump 22, and the third vacuum pump 23 can be controlled to evacuate in sequence.

[0081] In some embodiments of this application, the three-way valve 3 includes a third state in which the main pipe 31 is disconnected from the first branch pipe 32 and from the second branch pipe 33.

[0082] In the third state, the main pipe 31 is disconnected from both the first branch pipe 32 and the second branch pipe 33. At this time, the main pipe 31 is neither connected to the first branch pipe 32 (connecting to the first vacuum chamber 11) nor to the second branch pipe 33 (connecting to the second vacuum chamber 12). Since the first vacuum pump 21, the second vacuum pump 22, and the third vacuum pump 23 are all connected to the main pipe 31, when the three-way valve 3 is in the third state, the connection between these three vacuum pumps and the two vacuum chambers via the main pipe 31 is completely interrupted. The three vacuum pumps can no longer evacuate the two vacuum chambers, and the two vacuum chambers are completely isolated from the vacuum pump system.

[0083] This state effectively maintains the pressure in the vacuum chamber and prevents leakage. Once the vacuum chamber reaches the required vacuum level, the three-way valve 3 switches to its third state, disconnecting the vacuum chamber from the external pumping system. This prevents pressure changes on the vacuum pump side from affecting the vacuum chamber, thus maintaining a stable pressure within the vacuum chamber. Therefore, there is no need to install additional solenoid valves or check valves for the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22. Previously, disconnecting the vacuum pumps from the vacuum chamber required installing solenoid valves or check valves between each pump and chamber for isolation. However, the third state of the three-way valve 3, through its own structural switching, can simultaneously disconnect all three vacuum pumps from two vacuum chambers, eliminating the need for these additional components, simplifying the overall structure, and reducing costs and the likelihood of malfunctions.

[0084] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments of this application, the refrigerator 100 includes a pressure sensor 4, which is disposed on the main pipe 31.

[0085] Each vacuum chamber can be equipped with a separate pressure sensor 4 to measure the air pressure. Therefore, two pressure sensors are required for the two vacuum chambers. Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment is an example of this. In this embodiment, however, only one pressure sensor 4 is needed to measure the internal pressure of both vacuum chambers.

[0086] Specifically, the pressure sensor 4 is mounted on the main pipe 31, which connects to the first vacuum pump 21, the second vacuum pump 22, the third vacuum pump 23, and the three-way valve 3. The first branch pipe 32 of the three-way valve 3 connects to the first vacuum chamber 11, and the second branch pipe 33 connects to the second vacuum chamber 12. This creates an indirect connection between the main pipe 31 and the two vacuum chambers through the three-way valve 3. When the three-way valve 3 is in the first state, the main pipe 31 is connected to the first branch pipe 32, and the pressure inside the main pipe 31 is the same as the pressure inside the first vacuum chamber 11. The pressure sensor 4 can then directly detect the internal pressure of the first vacuum chamber 11. When the three-way valve 3 is in the second state, the main pipe 31 is connected to the second branch pipe 33, and the pressure inside the main pipe 31 is the same as the pressure inside the second vacuum chamber 12. The pressure sensor 4 can then detect the internal pressure of the second vacuum chamber 12. In other words, by switching between different states of the three-way valve 3, the main pipe 31 can form a passage with the two vacuum chambers respectively, and the pressure sensor 4 installed on the main pipe 31 can obtain the internal pressure information of the two vacuum chambers by sensing the pressure change in the main pipe 31.

[0087] This design uses only one pressure sensor 4 to detect the pressure of two vacuum chambers, eliminating the need for a separate pressure sensor 4 for each vacuum chamber. This reduces the number of components and simplifies the circuit connections and the complexity of the control system.

[0088] Regarding the specific installation of the barometric pressure sensor 4, it can be done as follows: Figure 6 As shown, it can be installed on the side wall of the vacuum chamber using screws, or as... Figure 7 As shown, it is supported directly by pipes.

[0089] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments of this application, a removable vacuum storage box 5 is provided in the vacuum chamber, and a one-way suction valve 51 is provided on the vacuum storage box 5. The one-way suction valve 51 is configured to conduct one-way air from the inside of the vacuum storage box 5 to the outside of the vacuum storage box 5.

[0090] The removable vacuum storage box 5 inside the vacuum chamber is a container for holding ingredients to be marinated. Its removable design facilitates transfer from the vacuum chamber to the natural environment. The one-way suction valve 51 on the vacuum storage box 5 has a one-way flow characteristic from the inside to the outside, meaning that gas can only flow from the inside of the vacuum storage box 5 to the outside and cannot flow back in from the outside. This one-way flow structure is achieved through sealing elements within the valve, such as a plug or spring plate. When the internal air pressure of the vacuum storage box 5 is higher than the external pressure, the pressure pushes the sealing element to open the channel, allowing internal gas to escape; conversely, when the external air pressure is higher than the internal pressure, the sealing element will close tightly under pressure, preventing external gas from entering.

[0091] During vacuum marinating, the ingredients are first placed in the vacuum storage box 5 and then placed inside the vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber is then evacuated using the vacuum system of the refrigerator 100. At this time, the gas inside the vacuum storage box 5 can be discharged into the vacuum chamber through the one-way suction valve 51. As the air pressure in the vacuum chamber decreases, the air pressure inside the vacuum storage box 5 will also gradually decrease, achieving a rapid evacuation effect. Once the required vacuum level is reached, the evacuation is stopped. Due to the action of the one-way suction valve 51, external gas cannot enter the vacuum storage box 5, maintaining the vacuum state inside the vacuum storage box 5 for a certain period of time.

[0092] Subsequently, the vacuum storage box 5 is removed from the vacuum chamber and placed in a natural environment, such as room temperature (20-25 degrees Celsius). At this time, the external air pressure of the vacuum storage box 5 is higher than that inside, and the one-way suction valve 51 will close tightly, preventing external air from entering and maintaining a lower air pressure inside the vacuum storage box 5. Under these conditions, the pressure between the food cells decreases, allowing the marinating liquid to penetrate the food more easily. Simultaneously, the room temperature environment accelerates the marinating reaction, thus achieving efficient vacuum marinating. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, after the vacuum storage box 5 is removed, the pressure inside the vacuum storage box 5 can still be maintained at 0.7 atm for more than 120 hours.

[0093] by Figure 3 Taking the vacuum drawer as an example of a vacuum chamber, the vacuum matching function is suitable for chilled, fresh, and baby products. The pressure sensor 4 identifies signals at 0.9 atm, with a tolerance of ±0.02 atm. In a vacuum state: when the vacuum drawer pressure is below 0.9 atmospheres, the pressure sensor 4 is disconnected, and the pressure signal is high. In a non-vacuum state: when the vacuum drawer pressure is above 0.9 atmospheres, the pressure sensor 4 is connected, and the pressure signal is low. The refrigerator 100 in this embodiment can have the following modes.

[0094] Normal mode: Upon detecting the vacuum drawer changing from open to closed, if a vacuum is present, the vacuum pump will not start; if not a vacuum is present, it will be evacuated until a vacuum is achieved, and then continue running until the delay time. Normal mode includes rapid vacuuming mode and regular mode.

[0095] Rapid Vacuuming Mode: Select the rapid vacuuming mode on the vacuum drawer's control switch. Two vacuum pumps will run simultaneously to evacuate the vacuum drawer. For example, the first vacuum pump 21 and the second vacuum pump 22 will simultaneously evacuate the vacuum drawer on the left side, which serves as the first vacuum chamber 11. The pumps will operate at 100% motor speed or 100% duty cycle. Once the pressure reaches 0.9 atm, the pumps will continue operating for a period of time until the pressure inside the vacuum drawer reaches between 0.7 and 0.8 atm. For vacuum pumps with a rated flow rate of 2.7-3.3L and a maximum vacuum pressure of 50-60Kpa, with both pumps running simultaneously, the time to reach 0.9 atm is 5-10 seconds. Continuing to operate for another 15-20 seconds will allow the pressure inside the vacuum drawer to reach 0.7-0.8 atm.

[0096] Normal mode: When any vacuum drawer is opened or closed, vacuuming is initiated. The vacuum pumps installed on the left and right sides of each drawer first evacuate their respective drawers until the pressure sensor 4 sends a feedback signal, at which point the pressure value is between 0.88 and 0.92 atm. After receiving the feedback signal, the vacuum pump installed at the center of the two drawers, through the opening of a valve, further reduces the pressure value inside the two drawers to between 0.7 and 0.8 atm.

[0097] When two vacuum drawers are opened and closed simultaneously, one after the other, but within a certain range, the vacuum pumps of both drawers are checked to see if they are running concurrently for a period of time with some overlap. For example, the first vacuum drawer is opened first and then evacuated for 1 minute, then the other vacuum drawer is opened and then closed, and the other vacuum pump starts working. After evacuation, the pressure in both vacuum drawers should reach between 0.7-0.8 atm. When the vacuum drawers are closed, if air slowly leaks to 0.9 atm, the vacuum pumps on both sides are used to reduce the pressure in the vacuum drawers to 0.8 atm.

[0098] For example, for a 15L vacuum drawer, using a vacuum pump with a rated flow rate of 2.5L, it takes 1 minute to reach 0.9 atm and another 1 minute to reach 0.8 atm. When one vacuum drawer is opened and closed, the two drawers are first evacuated to 0.9 atm using independent pumps on both sides, taking 1 minute. Then, the middle pump (i.e., the second vacuum pump 22) controls one set of vacuum drawers to evacuate for 1 minute. As the vacuum drawer slowly leaks and the pressure rises back to 0.9 atm, the two independent pumps on both sides run for 1 minute. If the vacuum drawer is not open and one leaks to 0.9 atm, the middle pump runs. The evacuation time of the pumps on both sides alternates with that of the middle pump for 1 minute.

[0099] In normal mode, the vacuum pump does not operate at any time when the refrigerator door is open. If, when the refrigerator door is opened, the vacuum drawer is detected to be changing from open to closed and is not in a vacuum state, the entire vacuuming process will be executed after the refrigerator door closes. If the refrigerator door is open during the vacuuming process and the vacuum drawer is not open, the vacuuming process will continue from the state before the refrigerator door was opened after the refrigerator door is closed. The opening and closing of the refrigerator door does not affect the vacuum drawer pressure holding time.

[0100] Dynamic Inspection Mode: Dynamic inspection mode is mainly used for pre-shipment inspection, facilitating quick assessment of the overall condition, such as whether switches are malfunctioning or leaks are detected. Dynamic inspection mode primarily detects when the vacuum drawer changes from open to closed. If it is in a vacuum state, the vacuum pump does not start; if it is not in a vacuum state, it will draw a vacuum, then stop for a period of time before resuming operation until the delay time.

[0101] For example, when the vacuum drawer is closed and not in a vacuum state, the vacuum pump starts running until a vacuum is achieved. The vacuum pump then stops for 2 minutes before resuming operation for the delay time. When the vacuum drawer is closed and a vacuum is achieved, the vacuum pump stops for 2 minutes before running again for the delay time and then stops. For commercial or animal inspections, the opening and closing of the refrigerator door does not affect the vacuuming process.

[0102] Sales Mode: Sales mode is used for in-store demonstrations. In sales mode, the system detects when the vacuum drawer changes from open to closed. If the drawer is in a vacuum state, the vacuum pump does not start; if it is not in a vacuum state, it creates a vacuum and continues running until the delay time.

[0103] For example, when the vacuum drawer is closed and not in a vacuum state, the vacuum pump starts running until a vacuum is reached, and then continues running until the delay time. When the vacuum drawer is closed and in a vacuum state, the vacuum pump runs for 0.5 minutes and then stops after 10 hours since the last vacuuming. The pressure holding time is 120 hours, with a maximum of 12 pressure holding cycles, after which pressure holding ceases until the vacuum state is exited. In retail mode, opening and closing the refrigerator door does not affect the vacuuming process.

[0104] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes: Vacuum chamber; the vacuum chamber is used for vacuum storage of stored items; A vacuum pump; the vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber includes a first vacuum chamber and a second vacuum chamber; The vacuum pump includes a first vacuum pump, a second vacuum pump, and a third vacuum pump. The first vacuum pump is connected to the first vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the first vacuum chamber. The second vacuum pump is connected to the second vacuum chamber and is used to evacuate the second vacuum chamber. The third vacuum pump is connected to both the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber so that the third vacuum pump can evacuate both the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerator also includes a three-way valve, which includes a main pipe, a first branch pipe and a second branch pipe. The main pipe is connected to the third vacuum pump, the first branch pipe is connected to the first vacuum chamber, and the second branch pipe is connected to the second vacuum chamber. The three-way valve includes a first state and a second state; In the first state, the main pipe and the first branch pipe are connected, and the main pipe is disconnected from the second branch pipe; In the second state, the main pipe and the second branch pipe are connected, and the main pipe is disconnected from the first branch pipe.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Both sides of the vacuum chamber are provided with mounting bases for installing the vacuum pump, so that the mounting bases on the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged in the same way; And / or, the vacuum chamber is provided with a mounting position for installing a three-way valve, and the mounting positions on the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged identically.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first vacuum pump is mounted on one of the mounting bases of the first vacuum chamber, the second vacuum pump is mounted on one of the mounting bases of the second vacuum chamber, and the third vacuum pump is mounted on the other mounting base of either the first vacuum chamber or the second vacuum chamber.

5. The refrigerator as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The mounting base is provided with an air extraction port that connects to the vacuum chamber, and the vacuum pump is connected to the air extraction port.

6. The refrigerator as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The mounting base on the first vacuum chamber includes a first mounting base and a second mounting base, and the mounting base on the second vacuum chamber includes a third mounting base and a fourth mounting base; The first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber are arranged side by side, and the second mounting base and the third mounting base are adjacent to each other; The first vacuum pump is mounted on the first mounting base and connected to the air extraction port of the first mounting base; the second vacuum pump is mounted on the fourth mounting base and connected to the air extraction port of the fourth mounting base. The third vacuum pump is mounted on the third mounting base. The first branch pipe is connected to the air extraction port of the second mounting base, and the second branch pipe is connected to the air extraction port of the third mounting base.

7. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Both the first vacuum pump and the second vacuum pump are connected to the main pipe.

8. The refrigerator as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The three-way valve includes a third state in which the main pipe and the first branch pipe are disconnected, and it is also disconnected from the second branch pipe.

9. The refrigerator as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigerator includes a pressure sensor, which is mounted on the main pipe.

10. The refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The vacuum chamber is equipped with a removable vacuum storage box, which is equipped with a one-way evacuation valve configured to allow one-way flow from the inside of the vacuum storage box to the outside.

Images