Method for operating a door opening device, a door opening device and a refrigeration device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (10a; 10b; 10c) for operating a door opening device (12a) for a refrigeration unit (14a), wherein the door opening device (12a) comprises at least one plunger (16a) for opening at least one refrigeration unit door (18a) of the refrigeration unit (14a), wherein in at least one detection step (20a; 20b; 20c) a pressure is detected, in particular by means of a sensor unit (22a) of the door opening device (12a), in an interior space (24a) of the refrigeration unit (14a). In order to provide a generic method (10a; 10b; 10c) with improved properties with regard to user comfort and / or efficiency of use, it is proposed that in at least one analysis step (26a; 26b; 26c) at least one position of the at least one plunger (16a) of the door opening device (12a) is determined depending on the detected pressure.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a door opening device for a refrigeration unit, a door opening device and a refrigeration unit.

[0002] A door opening device for a refrigeration unit is already known from the prior art, for example DE 10 2006 061 083 A1, wherein a pressure is detected by means of a sensor unit inside the refrigeration unit, and a refrigeration unit door is opened by means of a movable plunger of the door opening device depending on the detected pressure. A method for operating a refrigeration unit is known from EP 4 172 542 A1, wherein in at least one detection step a pressure of an interior of the refrigeration unit is detected, wherein in at least one analysis step the detected pressure is evaluated by means of at least one evaluation unit of the refrigeration unit, and wherein in the at least one analysis step only an open and / or closed state of the interior of the refrigeration unit is detected depending on the detected pressure.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular but not limited to, providing a generic method with improved properties with regard to user comfort and / or efficiency of use. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1, 10 and 11, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0004] The invention relates to a method for operating a door opening device for a refrigeration appliance, in particular a cooling appliance, wherein the door opening device comprises at least one plunger for opening at least one door of the refrigeration appliance, wherein in at least one detection step of the method a pressure inside the refrigeration appliance is detected, in particular by means of at least one sensor unit of the door opening device.

[0005] It is proposed that in at least one analysis step of the procedure, in particular by means of an evaluation unit of the door opening device, at least one position of the at least one plunger of the door opening device is determined depending on the detected pressure.

[0006] Such a design allows for a conveniently simple and precise determination of the door opening device's plunger position. This results in a significantly higher level of user comfort, as the risk of misdetermining the plunger's position is effectively minimized. Furthermore, a significantly higher system efficiency and / or energy efficiency can be achieved, since the precise determination of the plunger's position enables precise control of the refrigeration unit's functions based on the plunger's position. Finally, a significantly higher cost-effectiveness can be achieved, as pressure sensors, in particular, are relatively inexpensive to purchase.Furthermore, complexity can be advantageously kept low, since the measured pressure can be used both to detect activation of the door opening device and to determine the position of the plunger. This allows for a significantly high level of efficiency.

[0007] Preferably, in at least one detection step, a pressure, in particular a pressure change, is detected, which is generated by a movement of the refrigerator door, especially by an operator or the door opening device of the refrigerator. Preferably, in at least one detection step, the pressure is detected with a sampling rate of at least 10 Hz, advantageously at least 20 Hz, particularly advantageously at least 50 Hz, preferably at least 100 Hz, and particularly preferably at least 200 Hz. Preferably, in at least one detection step, the pressure is detected with a sampling rate of at most 1000 Hz, advantageously at most 750 Hz, particularly advantageously at most 500 Hz, and preferably at most 250 Hz. Preferably, in at least one detection step, an absolute pressure in the interior of the refrigerator is detected.Alternatively, it is conceivable that in at least one measurement step a relative pressure or a differential pressure, in particular relative to the atmospheric pressure at the installation site of the refrigeration unit, is measured.

[0008] Preferably, the method comprises at least one door-opening step. In this step, the at least one refrigerator door is preferably opened from a closed position by means of the at least one plunger. Specifically, in this step, the plunger is moved from a retracted position towards the refrigerator door, in order to open it. Furthermore, the method preferably comprises at least one plunger retraction step. In this step, the plunger is moved from an extended position to a retracted position, enabling the refrigerator door to be closed by an operator and / or a return element of the refrigerator, particularly without the refrigerator door striking the plunger.Preferably, in the at least one door opening step and / or the at least one plunger insertion step, the at least one plunger is driven by means of at least one drive unit of the door opening device. The at least one door opening step is preferably initiated by an operator input, for example by means of an actuating element of the refrigeration unit or by means of a pressure change generated by the operator in the at least one interior space of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the operator input is evaluated by means of the at least one evaluation unit, and a control signal for the execution of the at least one door opening step is transmitted to the at least one drive unit.The at least one plunger insertion step is preferably initiated at a time when the at least one plunger has been extended to a predetermined position, for example a maximum extended position of the at least one plunger, and / or when the at least one plunger is held at the predetermined position for a predetermined time.

[0009] Preferably, a pressure change is generated in the at least one interior space by means of the at least one door-opening step of the method, in particular by means of the force exerted by the at least one plunger on the at least one refrigerator door. In the at least one analysis step, a contact position of the at least one plunger of the door-opening device against the at least one refrigerator door, in particular against a stop surface of the refrigerator door, is preferably determined as a function of the detected pressure. A "contact position of the at least one plunger against the at least one refrigerator door" is understood to mean, in particular, that at least a part of the at least one plunger, in particular a part of the at least one plunger facing the at least one refrigerator door, touches the at least one refrigerator door at at least one point.Preferably, in at least one analysis step of the method, an open state, in particular a state where the at least one refrigerator door is not closed, of the refrigerator, especially of the at least one interior, is determined, particularly by means of the at least one evaluation unit, depending on the detected pressure. Preferably, in at least one analysis step, the opening of the refrigerator door is detected, particularly by means of the evaluation unit, depending on the detected pressure. Preferably, the interior of the refrigerator is in a state closed by means of the refrigerator door in order to determine a subsequent opening of the refrigerator door and / or the position of the plunger by means of the at least one analysis step. In particular, when opening the refrigerator door, a pulling or pushing force is applied to the refrigerator door by means of a user or the door opening device to open the refrigerator door.In particular, a sealing element of the refrigeration unit, preferably before the sealing element detaches from the refrigeration unit door or body, increases the volume of the interior by means of an expansion of the sealing element, thereby causing a pressure drop in the interior. Specifically, the measured pressure rises again when the sealing element detaches from the refrigeration unit door or body until it corresponds to the ambient pressure, in particular the atmospheric pressure at the location where the refrigeration unit is installed. Preferably, this process described above is evaluated in at least one analysis step by means of the evaluation unit to detect the opening of the refrigeration unit door and / or the position of the at least one plunger of the door opening device.

[0010] Preferably, in at least one analysis step, the closed state of the at least one interior compartment of the refrigeration unit is determined based on the measured pressure. Preferably, the closing of the refrigeration unit door is detected in the at least one analysis step based on the measured pressure. Preferably, the interior compartment is in a state opened by means of the refrigeration unit door, particularly not closed, in order to detect a subsequent closing of the refrigeration unit door in the at least one analysis step. Preferably, the measured pressure in the interior compartment when the refrigeration unit door is open corresponds to the ambient pressure, in particular the atmospheric pressure at the installation location of the refrigeration unit.In particular, when the refrigerator door is closed, a pressure force is exerted on the refrigerator door by a user of the refrigerator or by a return element of the refrigerator to close the refrigerator door. Specifically, at the moment when a sealing element of the refrigerator, particularly the one mentioned above, comes into contact with the refrigerator door or a body of the refrigerator, the volume of the interior is reduced by compression of the sealing element, resulting in a pressure increase in the interior. The detected pressure then drops again when the sealing element returns to its original shape. Preferably, this process described above is evaluated in at least one analysis step by the evaluation unit to detect when the refrigerator door is closed.

[0011] Preferably, in at least one analysis step, the position of at least one refrigerator door and / or at least one plunger is determined as a function of a change in the measured pressure, particularly a positive and / or negative change. More preferably, the position of at least one refrigerator door and / or at least one plunger is determined as a function of exceeding and / or falling below at least one predetermined pressure threshold value of the measured pressure or the filtered pressure. In particular, the predetermined pressure threshold value is a pressure value that is preferably 25%, advantageously 20%, particularly advantageously 15%, more preferably 10%, or more preferably 5% lower or higher than a pressure reference value, for example, atmospheric pressure, particularly at the installation location of the refrigerator.The pressure reference value and / or at least one predetermined pressure threshold value can be stored in a memory unit of the evaluation unit. Preferably, in at least one pressure threshold determination step of the method, the at least one predetermined pressure threshold value is determined, in particular by means of the evaluation unit, as a function of the pressure reference value.

[0012] Preferably, in at least one calculation step of the method, a moving average of the measured pressure is calculated, particularly using the evaluation unit, to determine the pressure reference value. This allows the influence of, for example, a temperature change in the interior of the refrigeration unit to be advantageously taken into account when evaluating the measured pressure. This also advantageously minimizes the risk of incorrectly determining the position of the plunger. Preferably, in this calculation step, a moving average is calculated, preferably of at least the last five values, advantageously of at least the last four values, and more preferably of at least the last three values ​​of the measured pressure, particularly using the at least one evaluation unit.The moving average of the recorded pressure formed in at least one calculation step is preferably used as a pressure reference value to determine the at least one pressure threshold value in the at least one pressure threshold determination step.

[0013] It is conceivable that the pressure threshold determination step of the method for setting the at least one predetermined pressure threshold is performed once after the initial commissioning of the refrigeration unit at the installation site or once a day, for example, every 24 hours. Preferably, the at least one pressure threshold determination step is performed once per hour, advantageously once every 10 minutes, particularly advantageously once every 1 minute, and preferably once every 1 second. Particularly preferably, each calculation step is followed by an execution of the pressure threshold determination step, in order to dynamically determine the at least one pressure threshold as a function of the moving average of the measured pressure. Preferably, in the at least one pressure threshold determination step, at least one predetermined constant value is added to or subtracted from the moving average to determine the at least one pressure threshold.Alternatively, in at least one pressure threshold determination step, a percentage value is determined from the moving average and added to or subtracted from the moving average to determine at least one pressure threshold.

[0014] Advantageously, in at least one analysis step, the position of the at least one plunger is determined when the measured pressure falls below a plunger position threshold value determined by means of the at least one pressure threshold determination step, particularly after the at least one door opening step has been initiated. Preferably, the plunger position threshold value in the at least one pressure threshold determination step is set at least 0.1 Pa lower, advantageously at least 0.2 Pa lower, particularly advantageously at least 0.3 Pa lower, and preferably at least 0.5 Pa lower than the pressure reference value. Preferably, the plunger position threshold value in the at least one pressure threshold determination step is set at most 1.5 Pa lower, and advantageously at most 1 Pa lower, than the pressure reference value.

[0015] Alternatively, it is conceivable that in at least one analysis step of the method, a difference quotient or a derivative of the measured pressure is calculated. Preferably, in this alternative embodiment of the method, the at least one position of the at least one refrigerator door and / or the at least one plunger is determined in the at least one analysis step by falling below and / or exceeding a difference quotient threshold or a derivative threshold.

[0016] It is further proposed that, in at least one analysis step of the method, a door opening position of the at least one plunger is determined based on the measured pressure, particularly by means of the at least one evaluation unit. Such a design allows for the determination of an advantageously minimal distance between the refrigerator door and the plunger for an initial position of the at least one plunger, particularly for initiating the door opening step. This results in a particularly advantageously short free stroke of the plunger during the door opening step. This enables a significantly higher level of user comfort, as it allows for a particularly short duration of the door opening step.A "door opening position of the at least one plunger" is preferably understood to be a position of the at least one plunger between a fully retracted position of the at least one plunger and a stop position of the at least one plunger against the at least one refrigerator door in a closed position of the at least one refrigerator door, which is used in particular as the starting and ending position of a movement of the at least one plunger to open the at least one refrigerator door. Preferably, the door opening position of the at least one plunger has a distance between one end of the at least one plunger facing the at least one refrigerator door and a stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door facing the at least one plunger of a maximum of, in particular, 7 mm, advantageously a maximum of 5 mm, particularly advantageously a maximum of 3 mm, preferably a maximum of 1 mm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 0.5 mm.Preferably, the at least one plunger is in a fully retracted state at the start of the at least one door-opening step of the method, particularly when the at least one door-opening step is executed before the first execution of the at least one analysis step. Preferably, the determined door-opening position is defined as a new starting position of the at least one plunger upon a subsequent execution of the at least one door-opening step. Preferably, the determined door-opening position is defined as the new end position of the plunger upon a subsequent execution of the at least one plunger retraction step. Preferably, after an execution of the at least one plunger retraction step, the at least one plunger remains in the door-opening position until the next execution of the at least one door-opening step.Preferably, in at least one analysis step, the door opening position of the at least one plunger is determined as a function of a positive and / or negative pressure change. More preferably, in at least one analysis step, the door opening position is determined as a function of a detected event of falling below a plunger position threshold, in particular the one mentioned above.

[0017] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one analysis step, the door opening position of the at least one plunger, in particular the one mentioned above, is determined as a function of falling below, and especially crossing, an opening threshold value. Such a design allows the door opening position to be determined advantageously precisely, thereby enabling the determination of a particularly advantageously minimal distance between the refrigerator door and the plunger for an initial position of the at least one plunger, especially for initiating the door opening step. This results in a particularly advantageously small free stroke of the plunger during the door opening step. In particular, the risk of incorrectly determining the door opening position can be advantageously minimized, since the door opening position is determined as a function of the refrigerator door being opened. This provides an advantageously high level of user convenience.The opening threshold is preferably determined in the at least one pressure threshold determination step as a function of a pressure reference value, in particular the one mentioned above, and especially as a function of the moving average of the detected pressure. Preferably, the opening threshold is set in the at least one pressure threshold determination step, particularly by means of the evaluation unit, at least 0.5 Pa, advantageously at least 0.6 Pa, particularly advantageously at least 0.7 Pa, preferably at least 0.8 Pa, and most preferably at least 1 Pa lower than the pressure reference value. Preferably, the door opening position is determined as a function of the crossing of the opening threshold within an opening time interval. Preferably, the opening time interval is stored in a memory of a storage unit of the evaluation unit.Preferably, the opening time interval comprises a maximum of 2 s, advantageously a maximum of 1.5 s, more preferably a maximum of 1 s, and particularly preferably a maximum of 0.5 s. Preferably, the opening time interval comprises a minimum of 0.05 s, advantageously a minimum of 0.1 s. Preferably, in the at least one analysis step, an opening of the refrigerator door is detected when the detected pressure falls below the opening threshold. More preferably, an opening of the refrigerator door is detected in the at least one analysis step when the detected pressure crosses the opening threshold within the opening time interval. Preferably, the door opening position is determined in the analysis step when an opening of the refrigerator door is detected in the at least one analysis step, particularly by means of the at least one evaluation unit.

[0018] The phrase "a detected pressure crosses a pressure threshold within a time interval" is to be understood in particular as meaning that the detected pressure exceeds and falls below the pressure threshold once within the time interval. Preferably, the detected pressure first falls below the pressure threshold and then exceeds it within the time interval, or the detected pressure first exceeds and then falls below it within the time interval.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one analysis step, a door opening position of the at least one plunger, in particular the one mentioned above, is determined as a function of a time interval between falling below a pressure threshold, in particular the one mentioned above, and a subsequent minimum of the detected pressure. Such a design allows the door opening position of the plunger to be advantageously determined precisely, thereby enabling the determination of a particularly advantageous minimum distance between the refrigerator door and the plunger for an initial position of the at least one plunger, especially for initiating the door opening step, thus providing a particularly advantageously high level of user comfort. Preferably, in the at least one pressure threshold determination step, the pressure threshold is set to be equal to the plunger position threshold.Alternatively, in the at least one pressure threshold determination step, the pressure threshold is set equal to the pressure reference value, in particular the moving average of the measured pressure. In the at least one analysis step, the at least one evaluation unit preferably records a time when the door opening step is initiated, a further time when the pressure falls below the threshold, and an additional time when the minimum measured pressure is reached. Preferably, the time interval between the further time when the pressure falls below the threshold and the additional time when the minimum measured pressure is reached comprises a maximum of 2 s, advantageously a maximum of 1.5 s, preferably a maximum of 1 s, and particularly preferably a maximum of 0.5 s.Preferably, in at least one analysis step, the at least one evaluation unit determines the door opening position by means of the time of initiating the door opening step, the further time of falling below the pressure threshold value, and the additional time of reaching the minimum of the detected pressure and a travel speed of the at least one plunger.

[0020] It is further proposed that in at least one plunger movement step of the method, the at least one plunger of the door opening device is moved to the determined door opening position, in particular by means of the at least one drive unit of the door opening device. Such a design allows for an advantageously minimal distance between the refrigerator door and the plunger when initiating the door opening step, which in particular leads to an advantageously small idle stroke of the plunger during the door opening step. This enables a significantly higher level of user comfort, as it allows for a particularly short duration of the door opening step and eliminates noise generation by eliminating the need for an idle stroke. Preferably, the at least one plunger movement step is initiated after the at least one plunger insertion step, in particular by means of the at least one evaluation unit.In particular, the at least one plunger is moved from its fully retracted position to the door opening position, especially by means of the at least one drive unit, during the at least one plunger movement step. However, it would also be conceivable for the plunger movement step to be initiated after the door opening step, especially by means of the at least one evaluation unit, in order to move the plunger from a fully extended position to the determined door opening position. Preferably, the determined door opening position is defined as a new starting position of the at least one plunger during a subsequent execution of the at least one door opening step. Preferably, the determined door opening position is defined as the new end position of the plunger during a subsequent execution of the at least one plunger retraction step.Preferably, at least one plunger remains in the door opening position after one execution of the at least one plunger insertion step until the next execution of the at least one door opening step.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that in the door-opening position of the at least one plunger, the distance between one end of the plunger and a stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door is a maximum of 7 mm. Such a design advantageously provides a minimal distance between the refrigerator door and the plunger, while in particular still allowing the refrigerator door to remain closed. Preferably, in the door-opening position of the at least one plunger, the distance between one end of the plunger and the stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door is a maximum of 7 mm, advantageously a maximum of 5 mm, particularly advantageously a maximum of 3 mm, preferably a maximum of 1 mm, and most preferably a maximum of 0.5 mm.Preferably, the door opening position of the at least one plunger has a minimum distance between the end of the at least one plunger and the stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door of, in particular, at least 0.001 mm, advantageously at least 0.005 mm, particularly advantageously at least 0.01 mm, and preferably at least 0.05 mm. This advantageously counteracts the risk of malfunction, for example, an incorrect detection of the pressure and the resulting determination of the position of the refrigerator door or the position of the plunger, if the plunger and the refrigerator door have a minimum distance.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one control step of the method, the functionality of the door opening device, in particular the opening of the at least one refrigerator door by means of the at least one plunger, is monitored as a function of the detected pressure, in particular by means of the at least one evaluation unit. Such a design advantageously provides monitoring of the functionality of the door opening device. In particular, this allows a user to be informed whether the door opening device is fully functional or whether maintenance may be required. This enables a significantly higher level of user convenience. Preferably, in the at least one control step, a pressure change in the at least one interior space of the refrigerator is monitored, which would be generated by opening the at least one refrigerator door by means of the plunger.In particular, at least one control step monitors whether the opening of at least one refrigerator door is detected when at least one door opening step is initiated. Preferably, at least one control step detects a malfunction of the door opening device depending on the detected pressure. Preferably, in the event of a detected malfunction of the door opening device, a control signal is transmitted from the at least one evaluation unit to an output unit of the door opening device or an output unit of the refrigerator, for the output unit to issue a warning signal to a user. The warning signal is, for example, a warning tone or a message.

[0023] It is further proposed that, in at least one functional adaptation step of the process, a function of the refrigeration unit is regulated, particularly by means of the at least one evaluation unit, depending on the position of the at least one plunger, as determined, in particular, by means of the at least one evaluation unit. Such a design can enable advantageously high energy efficiency, especially due to, for example, the adaptation of different operating modes of the refrigeration unit depending on the determined position of the plunger. This can enable advantageously high user comfort, as it can counteract, in particular, disadvantageous use of the refrigeration unit.Preferably, in at least one function adjustment step, the performance of the refrigeration unit, in particular of a component of the refrigeration unit, for example a compressor or a fan, is regulated depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger and / or the position of the at least one refrigeration unit door. Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that in at least one function adjustment step, an operating program, for example a cooling program or a defrosting program, is interrupted or activated depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger and / or the position of the at least one refrigeration unit door.Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that in at least one functional adaptation step of the procedure, a function or operating program of the refrigeration unit is made inaccessible or inoperable for an operator depending on the determined position of at least one plunger and / or the position of at least one refrigeration unit door.

[0024] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one motion adaptation step of the method, at least one motion parameter of the at least one plunger is regulated depending on a determined position of the at least one plunger, in particular by means of the at least one evaluation unit. Such a design enables a significantly higher level of user comfort. In particular, noise generation can be advantageously minimized. Furthermore, the time required to open the refrigerator door using the plunger can be advantageously short. Additionally, a significantly longer service life of the mechanical components of the door opening device can be achieved. Preferably, in the at least one motion adaptation step, the speed or acceleration of the at least one plunger during retraction and / or extension is regulated depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger.Preferably, the at least one evaluation unit generates an adapted control signal to the at least one drive unit depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger, in order to regulate, in particular, the speed or acceleration of the plunger driven by the at least one drive unit. Preferably, in the motion adaptation step, the speed or acceleration of the at least one plunger in a non-contact position of the at least one plunger against the at least one refrigerator door is regulated to a value of preferably 60%, advantageously 50%, particularly advantageously 40%, preferably 30%, and particularly preferably 20% of a maximum speed or a maximum acceleration of the plunger.Preferably, in the motion adjustment step, the speed or acceleration of the at least one plunger is regulated to a value of preferably at least 70%, advantageously at least 80%, particularly advantageously at least 85%, preferably at least 95% and particularly preferably 100% of a maximum speed or a maximum acceleration of the at least one plunger when contact of the at least one plunger is detected.

[0025] The invention further relates to a door opening device, in particular the one mentioned above, for a refrigeration appliance, in particular the one mentioned above, comprising at least one drive unit, in particular the one mentioned above, comprising at least one plunger, in particular the one mentioned above, which can be driven by means of the at least one drive unit to open a refrigeration appliance door, in particular the one mentioned above, comprising at least one sensor unit for detecting the pressure of an interior space of the refrigeration appliance, in particular the one mentioned above, and comprising at least one evaluation unit for evaluating the detected pressure in order to determine the position of the at least one plunger, in particular according to the method described above.

[0026] The term "door opening device" refers in particular to a device for the automatic, at least partial, opening of at least one door of a refrigeration unit. Preferably, the door opening device forms at least a part, in particular a subassembly, of the refrigeration unit. It is also conceivable that the door opening device is designed as a separate module from the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the door opening device is retrofittable to a refrigeration unit.

[0027] Preferably, the at least one plunger is rod-shaped. In particular, the length of the plunger is greater than its width and height. Preferably, the at least one plunger has a circular cross-section. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the plunger has a rectangular, oval, or elliptical cross-section. Preferably, the at least one plunger has a straight shape in one of its principal directions of extension. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the at least one plunger has a curvature or bend with respect to its principal direction of extension. For example, the at least one plunger is made of a metal and / or a plastic and / or a glass and / or a composite material.

[0028] The term "principal extension direction" of an object is understood to mean, in particular, a direction that runs parallel to the longest edge of the smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object.

[0029] Preferably, the at least one door opening device comprises at least one housing unit. Preferably, the at least one drive unit is arranged at least partially, advantageously at least completely, and more preferably completely, within the at least one housing unit. The term "at least completely" is understood to mean, in particular, at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and particularly advantageously at least 95% completely. Preferably, the at least one drive unit is designed to extend and / or retract the at least one plunger, in particular at least partially, from the at least one housing unit.

[0030] The at least one drive unit is preferably designed as an electric drive unit. Preferably, the at least one drive unit comprises at least one electric motor. Preferably, the at least one drive unit comprises at least one gearbox. The at least one gearbox is specifically designed to transmit the kinetic energy generated by the electric motor to the at least one plunger.

[0031] The at least one evaluation unit is preferably designed to evaluate the pressure detected by the at least one sensor unit, in particular by the at least one pressure sensor, in order to determine, in particular, the at least one position of the plunger and / or the door opening position and / or the at least one position of the refrigerator door. Additionally, it is conceivable that the evaluation unit is designed to determine a door opening request for automatic door opening by means of the door opening device, depending on the detected pressure. Preferably, the evaluation unit comprises a processing unit and, in particular, in addition to the processing unit, a storage unit with an evaluation program stored therein for evaluating the detected pressure, in particular according to the method described above, which is designed to be executed by the processing unit.Preferably, the at least one sensor unit and the at least one evaluation unit are interconnected via signal technology, in particular to provide data exchange.

[0032] Preferably, the door opening device comprises a control unit. Preferably, the evaluation unit is part of the control unit. It is conceivable that the evaluation unit constitutes at least part, and in particular completely, the control unit. A "control unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one electronic control device. The at least one control unit can, in principle, also be designed as a control unit. An electronic "control device" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one computing unit, in particular a processor unit, and with at least one storage unit, in particular one of the above-mentioned units, as well as with a control program stored in the storage unit.In principle, the at least one control and / or regulating unit can comprise several interconnected control units, which are preferably designed to communicate with each other via a bus system, a suitable wired data transmission system, or another data transmission system, such as, in particular, a wireless data transmission system. The at least one control unit is preferably designed to control and / or regulate the at least one electrical drive unit. It is conceivable that the at least one control unit of the door opening device is at least partially integrated into a control unit of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the door opening device is designed to be connected, particularly electrically, to at least one electronic unit, in particular the control unit, of the refrigeration unit.

[0033] It is conceivable that at least one plunger, at one end facing the at least one refrigerator door and contacting that door in at least one operating state, could have a magnetic element. This would allow for advantageously good contact between one end of the plunger and a contact surface, in particular an interior wall or a stop element, that is achieved at least one refrigerator door. An "interior wall of the refrigerator door" is understood to mean, in particular, a wall that faces the interior of the refrigerator when the interior is closed by means of the refrigerator door.

[0034] Preferably, the door opening device is designed to be arranged, at least partially, within a space between the at least one body of the refrigeration unit and at least one inner container of the refrigeration unit, which defines the at least one interior space. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the door opening device is designed to be arranged within or on the at least one door of the refrigeration unit. In this alternative embodiment of the door opening device, the at least one plunger is preferably designed to strike a portion of the body of the refrigeration unit that faces the inner wall of the refrigeration unit door, in order to open the refrigeration unit door.

[0035] Preferably, the at least one pressure sensor of the at least one sensor unit is designed to detect atmospheric pressure, in particular absolute pressure, or a measurement corresponding to atmospheric pressure, within the interior of the refrigeration unit. The at least one pressure sensor is preferably designed as a barometric pressure sensor. Alternatively, however, it would also be conceivable for the at least one pressure sensor to be designed as a piezoresistive pressure sensor, a capacitive pressure sensor, a resonant pressure sensor, a MEMS-based pressure sensor, an optical pressure sensor, or a ceramic pressure sensor. Preferably, the at least one pressure sensor is designed to be arranged within the interior, in particular on a wall of the inner container facing the interior.Preferably, the sensor unit, in particular the at least one pressure sensor, is electrically connected to the at least one evaluation unit in order to transmit the detected pressure to the at least one evaluation unit.

[0036] Preferably, the door opening device has at least one output unit designed to transmit the at least one detected position and / or at least one malfunction of the door opening device, in particular the one mentioned above, to a user, depending on the detected pressure. Preferably, the at least one output unit is designed to transmit the at least one detected position of the refrigerator door and / or the at least one detected malfunction of the door opening device to the user by means of an audible signal. The at least one output unit preferably has at least one audible output element. For example, the at least one audible output element is designed as a loudspeaker or microphone. The at least one audible signal is preferably designed as a warning signal and / or as a spoken message and / or music and / or sound effect.In particular, at least one audible signal is adapted and / or adaptable to the respective detected position of the refrigerator door and / or to the detected malfunction of the door opening device. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the at least one output unit is designed to transmit at least one visual signal and / or at least one haptic signal to the user. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the at least one output unit is at least partially integrated into an output unit of the refrigerator, for example, a user interface of the refrigerator. Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that the at least one output unit is designed as a wireless communication point for transmitting the at least one audible signal to at least one external output unit.It is conceivable that at least one external unit could be designed as a mobile speaker and / or as a smartphone and / or as a tablet.

[0037] The term "intended" is understood to mean, in particular, specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function is understood to mean, in particular, that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0038] Furthermore, the invention relates to a refrigeration appliance with an inner container, in particular the one mentioned above, which defines an interior space, in particular the one mentioned above, with at least one refrigeration appliance door for closing the interior space, and with at least one door opening device, in particular the one mentioned above.

[0039] Advantageously, the refrigeration appliance is designed to cool stored goods, such as foodstuffs, especially beverages, meat, fish, milk and / or dairy products, or pharmaceuticals or vaccines, or chemicals or cosmetic products, or plants, especially flowers or plant seeds, in at least one operating state, particularly to extend the shelf life or maintain the quality of the stored goods. The refrigeration appliance may be a household refrigeration appliance, especially a chest freezer, and advantageously a refrigerator and / or freezer.

[0040] Preferably, the refrigeration unit has at least one body. The at least one body of the refrigeration unit preferably forms an outer casing of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the at least one body and the at least one inner container are formed separately from one another. The at least one inner container is preferably housed within the at least one body. Alternatively, it would be conceivable for the at least one inner container and the at least one body to be formed as a single piece. The at least one inner container preferably has at least one wall, advantageously a plurality of walls. Preferably, the at least one interior space is bounded by the walls of the at least one inner container. The at least one inner container is, for example, made of at least one plastic, at least one metal, or at least one composite material.

[0041] The term "one-piece" is understood to mean, in particular, molded in a single piece. Preferably, this single piece is manufactured from a single blank, a compound, and / or a casting, most preferably using an injection molding process, especially a single- and / or multi-component injection molding process.

[0042] The interior can be divided into several areas, for example, a receiving area and an evaporator area. Preferably, the receiving area is designed to receive stored goods, such as food, placed into the at least one receiving area by an operator. Preferably, the refrigeration unit has a refrigerant circuit for cooling the interior of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the refrigerant circuit includes an evaporator. Preferably, the evaporator is arranged in the evaporator area. Preferably, the refrigeration unit has at least one partition to spatially separate the receiving area and the evaporator area.

[0043] Preferably, the refrigerator door is designed to counteract, and in particular prevent, the escape of heat, cold, or fluids from the interior of the refrigerator, or the ingress of dust or foreign matter into the interior, especially the receiving area, of the refrigerator. Preferably, the refrigerator has at least one hinge element. In particular, the refrigerator door is connected to the housing by means of the hinge element. Preferably, the at least one hinge element defines a mounting axis, in particular a pivot axis, for opening and / or closing the refrigerator door. The refrigerator door and / or the housing preferably has at least one sealing element, in particular a magnetic one. Preferably, the sealing element of the refrigerator door and / or the housing is designed to seal the interior of the refrigerator, enclosed by the refrigerator door, from a space located outside the refrigerator.Preferably, the sealing element is designed to maintain a leakage rate below a limit value specifically defined for the refrigeration unit, particularly when the refrigeration unit is closed by means of the refrigeration unit door.

[0044] The at least one door opening device is preferably arranged at least partially, and in particular completely, within a space defined by the at least one body and the inner container of the refrigeration unit. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the at least one door opening device is arranged at least partially on the at least one body, and in particular on the outer casing of the refrigeration unit. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the door opening device is arranged at least partially, and in particular completely, within the at least one door of the refrigeration unit, or on the at least one door of the refrigeration unit, and in particular on a side of the at least one door facing the interior of the refrigeration unit.

[0045] Preferably, the at least one refrigerator door has at least one stop element, in particular the one mentioned above. The at least one stop element is preferably designed to provide a stop for at least one plunger of the door opening device, in particular for opening the at least one refrigerator door. The at least one stop element can, for example, be a pressure plate attached to the refrigerator door. The pressure plate is, for example, made of at least one metal or at least one plastic.

[0046] Preferably, at least one pressure sensor, in particular the one mentioned above, of the at least one sensor unit of the at least one door opening device is arranged in the at least one interior of the refrigeration unit, particularly in an assembled state of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the at least one pressure sensor is arranged directly or indirectly on the side of the at least one wall of the inner container facing the interior. Advantageously, the at least one pressure sensor is arranged on an electronic unit of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the electronic unit is designed as a control unit of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, a control unit, in particular the one mentioned above, for controlling the at least one door opening device is integrated into the at least one control unit of the refrigeration unit.Preferably, the at least one pressure sensor is electrically connected to the electronic unit, in particular the at least one control unit of the refrigeration unit. Preferably, the refrigeration unit has an output unit. In particular, the output unit is designed as a user interface for the refrigeration unit, for example, as a touchpad or control panel. Preferably, the output unit has at least one output element. For example, the output element is designed as a screen, in particular a touchscreen, or as a loudspeaker. Preferably, the output unit of the refrigeration unit is designed to transmit the at least one detected position of the refrigeration unit door and / or a malfunction of the at least one door opening device to a user, for example, via an audible or visual signal.

[0047] The inventive method for operating the inventive door opening device, the inventive door opening device, and the inventive refrigeration unit are not limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the inventive method for operating the inventive door opening device, the inventive door opening device, and the inventive refrigeration unit may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and / or process steps than the number specified herein.

[0048] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0049] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic flowchart of a method according to the invention for operating a door opening device according to the invention for a refrigeration unit according to the invention, Fig. 2 an exemplary graph of a recorded pressure profile during the method according to the invention, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of the refrigeration unit according to the invention with the door opening device according to the invention, Fig. 4 a schematic sectional view of the refrigeration unit according to the invention with the door opening device according to the invention, Fig. 5 a schematic flowchart of an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention for operating the door opening device according to the invention for the refrigeration unit according to the invention, and Fig. 6 a schematic flowchart of a further alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention for operating the door opening device according to the invention for the refrigeration unit according to the invention.

[0050] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a process 10a for the operation of a door opening device 12a for a refrigeration unit 14a, which in this case is designed as a refrigerator.

[0051] Method 10a comprises at least one door opening step 46a. In this door opening step 46a of method 10a, at least one refrigerator door 18a of the refrigerator 14a is opened from a closed position by means of at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a. In this door opening step 46a, the plunger 16a is moved from a retracted position towards the door 18a, in order to open the door 18a. In this door opening step 46a, the plunger 16a is driven by means of at least one drive unit 40a of the door opening device 12a.The at least one door opening step 46a is initiated in particular by means of an operator input, for example by means of an actuating element (not shown) or by means of a pressure change generated by the operator in at least one interior space 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a. In particular, the operator input is evaluated by means of at least one evaluation unit 42a of the door opening device 12a and a control signal for the execution of the at least one door opening step 46a is transmitted to the at least one drive unit 32a.

[0052] Method 10a comprises at least one detection step 20a for detecting pressure within the refrigeration unit 14a, in particular within the at least one interior space 24a, by means of at least one sensor unit 22a of the door opening device 12a. In the at least one detection step 20a of method 10a, the pressure is detected at a sampling rate of 20 Hz. In the at least one detection step 20a, an absolute pressure in the interior space 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a is detected. Alternatively, it is conceivable that in the at least one detection step 20a a relative pressure or a differential pressure, in particular relative to atmospheric pressure at a location where the refrigeration unit 14a is installed, is detected.

[0053] In at least one calculation step 48a of method 10a, a moving average of the detected pressure is calculated using the at least one evaluation unit 42a of the door opening device 12a in order to determine at least one pressure threshold value for determining the position of the at least one plunger of the door opening device. In calculation step 48a, a moving average of the last three detected pressure values ​​is calculated. The moving average of the detected pressure calculated in at least one calculation step 48a is used as a pressure reference value for determining the at least one pressure threshold value in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a of method 10a. In this case, each calculation step 48a is followed by an execution of the pressure threshold determination step 50a, in order to dynamically determine the at least one pressure threshold value as a function of the moving average of the detected pressure.In at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a of procedure 10a, at least one predetermined constant value is added to or subtracted from the moving average to determine the at least one pressure threshold. Alternatively, in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, a percentage value is determined from the moving average and added to or subtracted from the moving average to determine the at least one pressure threshold. Alternatively, in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, a predetermined factor is multiplied by or divided with the moving average to determine the at least one pressure threshold.

[0054] Method 10a comprises at least one analysis step 26a in which, depending on the detected pressure, the position of at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a is determined. By means of the at least one door opening step 46a, in particular by means of the force exerted by the at least one plunger 16a on the at least one refrigerator door 18a, a pressure change is generated in the interior 24a, wherein the pressure change in the interior 24a is evaluated in the at least one analysis step 22a.

[0055] In at least one analysis step 26a of the method 10a, the position of at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a against the at least one refrigerator door 18a of the refrigerator 14a is determined depending on the detected pressure. In at least one analysis step 26a, the position of at least one plunger 16a is determined when the detected pressure falls below a plunger position threshold value 30a determined by means of at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, advantageously after initiating at least one door opening step 46a to open the refrigerator door 18a. The plunger position threshold value 30a is set in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a to be 0.2 Pa lower than the pressure reference value, in particular the moving average of the detected pressure.

[0056] In at least one analysis step 26a of the procedure 10a, the opening of at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected by at least one evaluation unit 42a, depending on the detected pressure. In at least one analysis step 26a, the opening of at least one refrigerator door 18a is determined as a function of a negative pressure change, in particular as a function of negative pressure. The opening of at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected in at least one analysis step 26a when the pressure falls below an opening threshold value 28a, in particular when it crosses this threshold within an opening time interval of a maximum of 0.5 s. The opening threshold value 28a is set in the pressure threshold determination step 50a to be 0.5 Pa lower than the pressure reference value, in particular the moving average of the detected pressure.

[0057] In at least one analysis step 26a of the procedure 10a, the closing of at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected by at least one evaluation unit 42a, depending on the detected pressure. In at least one analysis step 26a, the closing of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is determined as a function of a positive pressure change, in particular as a function of overpressure. The closing of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected in at least one analysis step 26a when the pressure exceeds a closing threshold value, in particular when it crosses a closing time interval of a maximum of 0.5 s. Specifically, in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, the closing threshold value is set at least 0.5 Pa higher than the opening threshold value 28a.

[0058] In at least one analysis step 26a of the method 10a, the door opening position of at least one plunger is determined as a function of the detected pressure, in particular by means of at least one evaluation unit 42a. In at least one analysis step 26a, the door opening position of at least one plunger 16a is determined as a function of falling below, in particular crossing, the opening threshold value 28a. In this case, the door opening position is determined by means of at least one evaluation unit 42a when an opening of the refrigerator door is detected in at least one analysis step 26a. Furthermore, in at least one analysis step 26a, the door opening position of at least one plunger is determined as a function of a time interval between falling below the plunger position threshold value 30a and a subsequent minimum of the detected pressure.The evaluation unit 42a records times between the initiation of the door opening step 46a and a fall below the plunger position threshold 30a as well as a subsequent detected minimum of the recorded pressure and determines the door opening position using the recorded times and a travel speed of at least one plunger 16a.

[0059] The door opening position of the at least one plunger 16a is determined in the at least one analysis step 26a such that the distance between one end of the at least one plunger 16a facing the at least one refrigerator door 18a and a stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is less than a limit value, advantageously a maximum of 7 mm, but the at least one plunger 16a does not touch the at least one refrigerator door 18a, in particular the stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door 18a. The stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is, for example, an inner wall of the at least one refrigerator door 18a or a stop element 76a of the at least one refrigerator door 18a.

[0060] Procedure 10a includes at least one query step 54a. In this query step 54a, the evaluation unit 42a checks whether a specific instruction exists for a result of the analysis step 22a. If no specific instruction exists, the acquisition step 20a, the calculation step 48a, the pressure threshold determination step 50a, and the analysis step 26a are repeated. If a specific instruction exists for the result of the analysis step 26a, the evaluation unit 42a executes this instruction. At least one specific instruction is stored in a memory unit of the evaluation unit 42a for the result of a detected opening of the refrigerator door 18a and / or the result of determining the door opening position of the plunger 16a.If the opening of at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected in at least one analysis step 26a, at least one specific instruction causes at least one evaluation unit 42a, for example, to determine the door opening position of the plunger 16a as a function of the detected pressure. If a door opening position of the plunger 16a is determined in at least one analysis step 26a, at least one specific instruction causes at least one evaluation unit 42a, for example, to update a start position of the plunger 16a in the door opening step 46a or an end position of the plunger 16a in a plunger insertion step 56a of the procedure 10a.Furthermore, if, for example, an opening and / or closing of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected in the at least one analysis step 26a, the at least one specific instruction causes the at least one evaluation unit 42a, for example, to trigger at least one output step 58a of the procedure 10a. For example, in the at least one output step 58a, the at least one determined position of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is transmitted to a user, in particular by means of at least one output unit (not shown) of the refrigerator 14a, for example, by means of a user interface of the refrigerator 14a. It would be conceivable that in the at least one output step 58a, the at least one position of the refrigerator door 18a is transmitted to the user by means of an auditory and / or visual and / or haptic signal.

[0061] The evaluation unit 42a determines, in at least one process step, that the at least one plunger 16a is in a fully extended state, for example, by measuring the voltage at the drive unit 40a. If this specific event is detected in the at least one query step 54a, the evaluation unit 42a triggers the at least one plunger retraction step 56a of process 10a within process 10a. It is conceivable that the plunger remains in the fully extended position for, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 seconds before the plunger retraction step 56a is initiated.In the at least one plunger insertion step 56a, the at least one plunger 16a is moved from the extended position to the retracted position in order to enable the closing of the at least one refrigeration unit door 18a by an operator and / or a return element (not shown) of the refrigeration unit 14a, in particular without the at least one refrigeration unit door 18a striking the at least one plunger 16a.

[0062] Method 10a comprises at least one plunger movement step 32a. In the at least one plunger movement step 32a of method 10a, the at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a is moved to the determined door opening position by means of the at least one drive unit 40a of the door opening device 12a. The at least one plunger movement step 32a is initiated after the at least one plunger retraction step 56a, in particular after the completion of the at least one plunger retraction step 56a. Specifically, in the at least one plunger movement step 32a, the at least one plunger 16a is moved from the fully retracted position of the at least one plunger 16a to the door opening position.It would also be conceivable, however, that the plunger movement step 32a is initiated directly after completion of at least one door opening step 46a, in order to move at least one plunger 16a from its fully extended position to the determined door opening position. Plunger movement step 32a could replace plunger insertion step 56a of procedure 10a. The determined door opening position is defined as a new starting position for at least one plunger 16a upon a subsequent execution of at least one door opening step 46a. The determined door opening position is defined as the new end position for at least one plunger 16a upon a subsequent execution of at least one plunger insertion step 56a. After an execution of at least one plunger insertion step 56a, the at least one plunger 16a remains in the door opening position until the next execution of at least one door opening step 46a.

[0063] Method 10a includes at least one control step 34a. In at least one control step 34a of method 10a, the functionality of the door opening device 12a, in particular the opening of the at least one refrigerator door 18a by means of the at least one plunger 16a, is monitored by means of the at least one evaluation unit 42a, depending on the detected pressure. The at least one control step 34a is part of the query step 54a. In the at least one control step 34a, a pressure change in the at least one interior space 24a of the refrigerator 14a is monitored, which would have to be generated by opening the at least one refrigerator door 18a, in particular by means of the at least one plunger 16a. In the at least one control step 34a, it is monitored whether an opening of the at least one refrigerator door 18a is detected when the at least one door opening step 46a is initiated.In at least one control step 34a, a malfunction of the door opening device 12a is detected depending on the measured pressure. If the at least one refrigerator door 18a is not detected opening after a predetermined time, for example 5 s, a malfunction of the door opening device 12a is determined by the at least one evaluation unit 42a. Upon detection of a malfunction of the door opening device 12a, a control signal is transmitted in at least one control step 34a from the at least one evaluation unit 42a, for example to the output unit (not shown) of the refrigerator 14a, to issue a warning signal to a user via the output unit. The warning signal is, for example, in the form of a warning tone or a message.

[0064] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a time-pressure diagram describing an exemplary pressure profile 60a during procedure 10a. The pressure profile 60a describes the absolute pressure in the interior 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a, as measured by at least one sensor unit 22a in at least one measurement step 20a, as a function of time. The measured absolute pressure is plotted on an axis 52a against an axis 62a of time.

[0065] The pressure curve 60a starts with a pressure that is at least substantially constant, corresponding to the atmospheric pressure at the installation location of the refrigeration unit 14a. The interior 24a is closed by means of the refrigeration unit door 18a. In at least one calculation step 48a of the procedure 10a, a moving average of the measured pressure is determined, in particular dynamically. At time 64a, a user initiates at least one door opening step 46a of the procedure 10a to open the refrigeration unit door 18a.

[0066] In at least one door-opening step 46a, the at least one plunger 18a is moved towards the refrigerator door 18a by means of the drive unit 40a. Specifically, a pressure force is exerted on the refrigerator door 18a by means of the plunger 16a to open the refrigerator door 18a. Specifically, a sealing element 66a of the refrigerator 14a, preferably before the sealing element 66a detaches from the refrigerator door 18a, increases the volume of the interior 24a by means of an expansion of the sealing element 66a, thereby causing a pressure drop in the interior 24a. At a further point 68a, the sealing element 66a detaches from the refrigerator door, allowing ambient air to flow into the interior 24a. The measured pressure rises until it reaches atmospheric pressure again at the location where the refrigerator 14a is installed.

[0067] In a section 70a of the pressure curve 60a, a pressure change, in particular a negative pressure, is detected by means of at least one sensor unit 22a. The detected pressure of the pressure curve 60a falls below the plunger position threshold 30a in section 70a. This threshold is determined as a function of the moving average of the detected pressure in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a of the procedure 10a by means of at least one evaluation unit 42a. In at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, the plunger position threshold 30a is set 0.2 Pa lower than the moving average of the detected pressure. In at least one analysis step 26a, this results in the detection of a plunger 16a being in contact with the refrigerator door 18a.

[0068] Furthermore, the measured pressure in area 70a falls below an opening threshold value 28a. In at least one pressure threshold determination step 50a, the opening threshold value 28a is set 0.5 Pa lower than the moving average of the measured pressure. In particular, the measured pressure in area 70a crosses the opening threshold value 28a within an opening time interval of a maximum of 0.5 s. In at least one analysis step 26a of the procedure 10a, the at least one evaluation unit 42a thereby detects an opening of the refrigerator door 18a for area 70a of the pressure curve 60a.

[0069] In query step 54a of procedure 10a, the detection of the opening of the refrigerator door 18a triggers the determination of the door opening position in analysis step 26a. The at least one evaluation unit 42a determines the door opening position in analysis step 26a using the time of initiation of the door opening step, in particular time 64a, a time when the plunger position threshold is undershot, an additional time when the minimum of the detected pressure is reached, in particular a further time 68a, and the travel speed of the at least one plunger 16a.

[0070] After completion of at least one door opening step 46a, the at least one plunger 16a is moved to its fully retracted position by means of at least one plunger retraction step 56a of the method 10a. The at least one plunger movement step 32a is initiated after at least one plunger retraction step 56a, in particular by means of at least one evaluation unit 42a. Specifically, in at least one plunger movement step 32a, the at least one plunger 16a is moved from its fully retracted position to the door opening position, in particular by means of at least one drive unit 40a.

[0071] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the plunger movement step 32a is initiated after completion of the door opening step 46a, in particular by means of the at least one evaluation unit 42a, in order to move the plunger 16a from a fully extended position to the determined door opening position. Specifically, the determined door opening position is defined as a new starting position of the at least one plunger 16a upon a further execution of the at least one door opening step 46a. Specifically, the determined door opening position is defined as the new end position of the plunger upon a further execution of the at least one plunger retraction step 56a. Preferably, after an execution of the at least one plunger retraction step 56a, the at least one plunger remains in the door opening position until the next execution of the at least one door opening step 46a.

[0072] Figures 3 and 4Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the refrigeration device 14a, which is designed as a refrigerator. The refrigeration device 14a has at least one body 72a. The at least one body 72a of the refrigeration device 14a forms an outer housing of the refrigeration device 14a.

[0073] The refrigeration appliance 14a has at least one inner container 44a. In this case, the at least one housing 72a and the at least one inner container 44a are formed separately from each other. Alternatively, however, it would also be conceivable that the at least one housing 72a and the at least one inner container 44a are formed as a single unit. The at least one inner container 44a is enclosed within the at least one housing 72a. The inner container 44aa of the refrigeration appliance 14a can, for example, be configured as a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment. The at least one inner container 44a is, for example, made of at least one plastic and / or at least one metal. The at least one inner container 44a has a plurality of walls, in particular a side wall 74a, another side wall, a bottom wall 80a, a top wall, and a rear wall.

[0074] The refrigeration unit 14a has an interior space 24a arranged within at least one body 72a. The interior space 24a is bounded by the walls of at least one inner container 44a of the refrigeration unit 14a.

[0075] The refrigeration unit 14a has at least one refrigeration unit door 18a, which is movably arranged on at least one body 72a, for closing the interior 24a. The at least one refrigeration unit door 18a of the refrigeration unit 14a is pivotable, in particular by means of at least one hinge element (not shown), and connected to the at least one body 40a. The at least one refrigeration unit door 18a and / or the at least one body 40a has, for example, at least one sealing element 66a. The at least one sealing element 66a is designed to seal the at least one interior 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a, which is closed by the at least one refrigeration unit door 18a, from a space located outside the refrigeration unit 14a.The at least one sealing element 66a is designed to maintain a leakage rate below a limit value specifically defined for the refrigerator 14a, particularly when the refrigerator door 18a is closed, in particular when the interior 24a is closed, in order to comply, for example, with the standard ISO 15502 or EN 62552. The at least one refrigerator door 18a is designed as a door in this case. Alternatively, it would be conceivable that the at least one refrigerator door 18a could be designed as a flap or window, or as a unit that would be considered useful to a person skilled in the art for closing the interior of a refrigerator. In this case, the at least one refrigerator door 18a has at least one inner wall and at least one outer wall.The at least one inner wall and the at least one outer wall of the at least one refrigerator door 18a form a cavity in which a thermally insulating material, for example, thermally insulating foam, is inserted. The at least one refrigerator door 18a has at least one stop element 76a. The stop element 76a is designed to provide a stop or a stop surface for the at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a, in particular for opening the at least one refrigerator door 18a. The stop element 76a is a pressure plate attached to the at least one refrigerator door 18a. In this case, the pressure plate is made of metal.

[0076] The refrigeration unit 14a has at least one door opening device 12a arranged within at least one body 72a. The at least one door opening device 12a is arranged at least partially within a space 78a between the at least one body 72a of the refrigeration unit 14a and the at least one inner container 44a, in particular the bottom wall 80a of the at least one inner container 44a, of the refrigeration unit 14a. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable that the at least one door opening device 12a is arranged at least partially on the at least one body 72a, in particular the outer casing of the refrigeration unit 14a.Alternatively, it would also be conceivable that the at least one door opening device 12a is arranged inside, in particular in the space between the at least one inner wall and the at least one outer wall of the at least one refrigerator door 18a, or on the at least one refrigerator door 18a, in particular on the at least one inner wall of the at least one refrigerator door 18a.

[0077] In the space 78a between the at least one body 72a of the refrigeration unit 14a and the at least one inner container 44a, a thermally insulating material, for example a thermally insulating foam, is inserted.

[0078] The at least one door opening device 12a comprises at least one housing unit 82a. The at least one door opening device 12a comprises at least one drive unit 40a. The at least one drive unit 40a is arranged, in particular completely, within the at least one housing unit 82a. The at least one door opening device 12a comprises at least one plunger 16a which can be driven by means of the at least one drive unit 40a. The at least one plunger 16a is arranged, at least partially, within the at least one housing unit 82a. It is conceivable that the at least one plunger 16a is arranged completely within the housing unit 82a in a fully retracted state. The at least one drive unit 40a is designed to retract and / or extend the at least one plunger 16a, in particular at least partially, from the at least one housing unit 82a.

[0079] The at least one drive unit 40a is designed as an electric drive unit. The at least one drive unit 40a comprises at least one electric motor (not shown). The at least one drive unit 40a comprises at least one gearbox (not shown). The at least one gearbox of the at least one drive unit 40a is designed to transmit the kinetic energy generated by the electric motor to the at least one plunger 16a.

[0080] The at least one door opening device 12a includes the at least one sensor unit 22a for detecting the pressure within the interior 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a, which can be closed by the at least one refrigerator door 18a of the refrigeration unit 14a. The at least one sensor unit 22a includes at least one pressure sensor (not shown). The at least one pressure sensor of the at least one sensor unit 22a is designed to detect an air pressure, in particular an absolute pressure, within the interior 24a of the refrigeration unit 14a. The at least one pressure sensor is designed as a barometric pressure sensor for detecting an absolute air pressure.

[0081] The at least one door opening device 12a includes the at least one evaluation unit 42a. The at least one evaluation unit 42a is, for example, designed as a microcontroller. The at least one evaluation unit 42a of the door opening device 14a is, in this case, at least partially integrated into a control unit 84a of the refrigeration unit 14a. The at least one evaluation unit 42a is designed to evaluate the pressure detected by the at least one sensor unit 22a. The at least one evaluation unit 42a is designed to determine, depending on the pressure detected, in particular by the sensor unit 22a, the at least one position of the at least one plunger 16a of the door opening device 12a and / or the at least one position of the at least one refrigeration unit door 18a of the refrigeration unit 14a and / or the door opening position of the at least one plunger 16a.

[0082] The at least one sensor unit 22a, in particular the at least one pressure sensor, is arranged on the control unit 84a of the refrigeration unit 14a. The control unit 84a of the refrigeration unit 14a specifically comprises a control board. Advantageously, the at least one sensor unit 22a and the at least one evaluation unit 42a are arranged on the control board of the control unit 84a of the refrigeration unit 14a. The control unit 84a of the refrigeration unit 14a is arranged on a wall facing the at least one interior space 24a, in this case on the side wall 74a, of the at least one inner container 44a of the refrigeration unit 14a.

[0083] The at least one door opening device 12a has at least one output unit (not shown) which is designed to transmit the at least one detected position and / or the at least one malfunction of the door opening device 12a, determined as a function of the detected pressure, to a user. In this case, the at least one output unit of the door opening device 12a is integrated into an output unit of the refrigeration unit 14a. In this case, the output unit is designed as a user interface, for example, as an operating touchscreen, of the refrigeration unit 14a. The at least one output unit is designed to transmit the at least one detected position of the refrigeration unit door 18a and / or the at least one detected malfunction of the door opening device 12a to the user by means of an audible and / or visual and / or haptic signal.The output unit includes, for example, an auditory and / or visual and / or haptic output element, such as a speaker and / or a touchscreen. The auditory and / or visual and / or haptic signal is, for example, a message, in particular a spoken or written message, or a warning tone. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one output unit could be configured as a wireless communication point for transmitting the at least one auditory and / or visual and / or haptic signal to at least one external output unit. This external unit could be a portable speaker and / or a smartphone and / or a tablet and / or a smartwatch.

[0084] Of the objects that appear multiple times in the figures, only one is marked with a reference symbol.

[0085] In the Figure 5 and 6Two further embodiments of the invention are shown. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identical components, features and functions, reference is made to the description of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4 Reference can be made to. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a in the reference numerals of the embodiment is used in the Figures 1 to 4 by the letter b in the reference numerals of the embodiment of the Figure 5 and by the letter c in the reference numerals of the embodiment of the Figure 6 replaced. With regard to identically designated components, especially those with the same reference numerals, reference can generally also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 4 be referred.

[0086] In Figure 5Figure 10b is a schematic flowchart of a method for operating a door opening device for a refrigeration unit, in particular a cooling unit. The method comprises at least one detection step 20b for detecting pressure within the refrigeration unit, in particular within at least one interior compartment of the refrigeration unit, by means of at least one sensor unit of the door opening device. In at least one door opening step 46b of the method 10b, at least one door of the refrigeration unit is opened by means of at least one plunger of the door opening device. In at least one calculation step 48b of the method 10b, a moving average of the detected pressure is calculated by means of at least one evaluation unit of the door opening device in order to determine at least one pressure threshold value for determining the position of at least one plunger of the door opening device.The moving average of the measured pressure calculated in at least one calculation step 48b is used as a pressure reference value to determine at least one pressure threshold value in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50b of method 10b. In this case, each calculation step 48b is followed by an execution of pressure threshold determination step 50b, in order to dynamically determine at least one pressure threshold value as a function of the moving average of the measured pressure. Method 10b includes at least one analysis step 26b in which the at least one position of at least one plunger 16b of the door opening device is determined by the evaluation unit as a function of the measured pressure. Furthermore, in at least one analysis step 26b, the opening and / or closing of the refrigerator door is determined as a function of the measured pressure by the at least one evaluation unit.Procedure 10b includes at least one query step 54b. In this query step 54b of procedure 10b, the evaluation unit checks whether a specific instruction exists for a result of the analysis step 26b. If no specific instruction exists, the acquisition step 20b, the calculation step 48b, the pressure threshold determination step 50b, and the analysis step 26b are repeated. If a specific instruction exists for the result of the analysis step 26b, the evaluation unit executes it.At least one specific instruction is stored in a memory of a storage unit of the at least one evaluation unit for the result of a detected opening of the at least one refrigerator door and / or for the result of a detected closing of the at least one refrigerator door and / or for the result of a detected contact of the at least one plunger against the at least one refrigerator door. For example, if an opening of the refrigerator door or contact of the at least one plunger against the at least one refrigerator door is detected, the at least one specific instruction causes the at least one evaluation unit, for example, to trigger at least one function adaptation step 36b of procedure 10b for regulating at least one function of the refrigerator.In at least one function adjustment step 36b, a function of the refrigeration unit is regulated by means of the at least one evaluation unit depending on the position of the at least one plunger and / or the position of the at least one refrigeration unit door determined by means of the at least one evaluation unit.

[0087] In at least one functional adaptation step 36b of method 10b, the output of the refrigeration unit, in particular of a component of the refrigeration unit, for example a compressor or a fan, is regulated by means of at least one evaluation unit depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger and / or the position of the at least one refrigeration unit door. In functional adaptation step 36b, the output could, for example, be increased from an initial value, which is not equal to a maximum value, to, for example, the maximum value, if the plunger is detected to be in contact with the at least one refrigeration unit door or if the at least one refrigeration unit door is detected to be opened, as detected within at least one analysis step 26b of method 10b, in order to counteract, in particular, an undesirable heating of the refrigeration unit's receiving chamber.Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that in at least one function adaptation step 36b, an operating program, for example a cooling program, is interrupted or activated depending on the determined position of at least one plunger and / or the position of at least one refrigerator door. Alternatively or additionally, it would be conceivable that in at least one function adaptation step 36b of procedure 10b, a function or operating program of the refrigerator is rendered inaccessible or inexecutable for an operator depending on the determined position of at least one plunger and / or the position of at least one refrigerator door.

[0088] For further features of procedure 10b, refer to the Figures 1 to 4 and their descriptions are referenced.

[0089] In Figure 6Figure 10c shows a schematic flowchart of a method 10c for operating a door opening device for a refrigeration unit, in particular a refrigerator. Method 10c comprises at least one detection step 20c for detecting pressure within the refrigeration unit, in particular within at least one interior compartment of the refrigeration unit, by means of at least one sensor unit of the door opening device. In at least one door opening step 46c of method 10c, at least one refrigerator door of the refrigeration unit is opened by means of at least one plunger of the door opening device. In at least one calculation step 48c of method 10c, a moving average of the detected pressure is calculated by means of at least one evaluation unit of the door opening device in order to determine at least one pressure threshold value for determining the position of at least one plunger of the door opening device.The moving average of the measured pressure calculated in at least one calculation step 48c is used as a pressure reference value to determine at least one pressure threshold value in at least one pressure threshold determination step 50c of method 10c. In this case, each calculation step 48c is followed by an execution of pressure threshold determination step 50c, in order to dynamically determine at least one pressure threshold value as a function of the moving average of the measured pressure. Method 10c includes at least one analysis step 26c in which the at least one position of at least one plunger of the door opening device is determined by the evaluation unit as a function of the measured pressure. Furthermore, in at least one analysis step 26c, the opening and / or closing of the refrigerator door is determined as a function of the measured pressure by the at least one evaluation unit.Procedure 10c includes at least one query step 54c. In this query step 54c, the evaluation unit checks whether a specific instruction exists for a result of the analysis step 26c. If no specific instruction exists, the acquisition step 20c, the calculation step 48c, the pressure threshold determination step 50c, and the analysis step 26c are repeated. If a specific instruction exists for the result of the analysis step 26c, the evaluation unit executes it. At least one specific instruction is stored in a memory unit of the evaluation unit for the result of a detected contact of the plunger with the door of the refrigeration unit.For example, if a closed position of at least one plunger against at least one refrigerator door is detected, at least one specific instruction causes at least one evaluation unit to trigger at least one motion adjustment step 38c of procedure 10c to regulate at least one motion parameter of the at least one plunger. In at least one motion adjustment step 38c, the at least one motion parameter of the at least one plunger is regulated depending on the at least one determined position of the at least one plunger.

[0090] In at least one motion adjustment step 38c of method 10c, the travel speed of at least one plunger is regulated during retraction and / or extension by means of at least one evaluation unit, depending on the determined position of the at least one plunger. Preferably, in at least one motion adjustment step 38c, the travel speed of the at least one plunger is regulated to a value of 30% of a maximum travel speed of the at least one plunger when the at least one plunger is not in contact with the at least one refrigerator door. Preferably, in at least one motion adjustment step 38c, the travel speed of the at least one plunger is regulated to a value of 85% of a maximum speed of the at least one plunger when contact with the at least one refrigerator door is detected.Upon completion of at least one door opening step 46c, the at least one evaluation unit initiates at least one plunger insertion step of the procedure 10c in at least one query step 54c, wherein in at least one motion adjustment step 38c the speed of the plunger is regulated to a value of, for example, 100% of the maximum speed of the at least one plunger.

[0091] For further features of procedure 10c, refer to the Figures 1 to 5 and their descriptions are referenced. Reference sign

[0092] 10 Procedure 12 Door opening device 14 Refrigeration unit 16 Plunger 18 Refrigeration unit door 20 Detection step 22 Sensor unit 24 Interior 26 Analysis step 28 Opening threshold 30 Plunger position threshold 32 Plunger travel step 34 Control step 36 Function adjustment step 38 Movement adjustment step 40 Drive unit 42 Evaluation unit 44 Inner container 46 Door opening step 48 Calculation step 50 Pressure threshold determination step 52 Axis 54 Query step 56 Plunger insertion step 58 Output step 60 Pressure profile 62 Axis 64 Time point 66 Sealing element 68 Further time point 70 Area 72 Body 74 Side wall 76 Stop element 78 Gap 80 Bottom wall 82 Housing unit 84 Control unit

Claims

1. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) for operating a door opening device (12a) for a refrigeration appliance (14a), wherein the door opening device (12a) comprises at least one plunger (16a) for opening at least one refrigeration appliance door (18a) of the refrigeration appliance (14a), wherein in at least one detection step (20a; 20b; 20c) a pressure is detected, in particular by means of a sensor unit (22a) of the door opening device (12a), in an interior (24a) of the refrigeration appliance (14a), characterized by the fact that In at least one analysis step (26a; 26b; 26c) at least one position of the at least one plunger (16a) of the door opening device (12a) is determined depending on the detected pressure.

2. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that in which at least one analysis step (26a; 26b; 26c) determines a door opening position of at least one plunger (16a) depending on the detected pressure.

3. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact thatin which at least one analysis step (26a; 26b; 26c) determines a door opening position of at least one plunger as a function of exceeding, in particular crossing, an opening threshold value (28a).

4. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that in which at least one analysis step (26a; 26b; 26c) determines a door opening position of at least one plunger as a function of a time interval between exceeding a pressure threshold value (30a) and a subsequent minimum of the detected pressure.

5. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by the fact that in at least one plunger movement step (32a) the at least one plunger (16a) is moved to the determined door opening position.

6. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized by the fact thatIn the door opening position of the at least one plunger (16a), the distance between one end of the at least one plunger (16a) and a stop surface of the at least one refrigerator door (18a) is a maximum of 7 mm.

7. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that In at least one control step (34a) at least the functionality of the door opening device (12a), in particular the opening of the at least one refrigerator door (18a) by means of the at least one plunger (16a), is monitored depending on the detected pressure.

8. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that in at least one function adjustment step (36b) depending on the determined position of at least one plunger (16a) a function of the refrigeration unit (14a) is regulated.

9. Method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatin at least one movement adaptation step (38c) a movement parameter of the at least one plunger (16a) is regulated depending on a determined position of the at least one plunger (16a).

10. Door opening device (12a) for a refrigeration appliance (14a) comprising at least one drive unit (40a), comprising at least one plunger (16a) driven by the at least one drive unit (40a) for opening a refrigeration appliance door (18a) of the refrigeration appliance (14a), comprising at least one sensor unit (22a) for detecting a pressure of an interior (24a) of the refrigeration appliance (14a) and comprising at least one evaluation unit (42a) for evaluating the detected pressure in order to determine a position of the at least one plunger (16a), in particular according to a method (10a; 10b; 10c) according to one of the preceding claims.

11. Refrigeration unit (14a) with an inner container (44a) which defines an interior space (24a), with at least one refrigeration unit door (18a) for closing the interior space (24a), and with at least one door opening device (12a) according to claim 10.

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