Refrigerator and method for controlling refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0150710 filed on October 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling a refrigerator.DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART

[0003] A refrigerator is a home appliance that stores food for a long time using cold air generated by circulating refrigerant through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigerator includes one or more storage compartments for storing items in a refrigerated or frozen state. Each storage compartment can be opened or closed by a swing-type door or accessed by pulling out a drawer. The storage compartment can include a freezer compartment for storing items in a frozen state and a refrigerator compartment for storing items in a refrigerated state.

[0004] During the operation of the refrigerator, when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises to a predetermined level or higher, cold air generated by an evaporator can be supplied into the storage compartment by a blower fan, cooling the interior of the storage compartment. Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0097860 discloses a method for operating a refrigerator having a single blower fan.

[0005] The refrigerator may include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment. A double-door refrigerator can include two doors which are hinge-coupled to both sides of a cabinet, respectively, and open and close left and right spaces of a storage compartment. According to the related art, when one of the doors of the double-door refrigerator is opened and the temperature inside a storage compartment rises, a compressor and a blower fan are driven, cooling the interior of the storage compartment. According to such a control method, hot air from a storage space (e.g., the left storage space) corresponding to the open door (e.g., the left door) is introduced into the storage space (e.g., the right storage space) corresponding to the unopened door (e.g., the right door) by the operation of the blower fan. Accordingly, the time and power required to cool the entire storage compartment increase.SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to providing a refrigerator for supplying cold air into a storage compartment through a plurality of blower fans.

[0007] The present disclosure is also directed to providing a refrigerator capable of evenly and quickly supplying cold air generated by an evaporator into a storage compartment.

[0008] The present disclosure is also directed to providing a refrigerator capable of minimizing the loss of cold air generated by an evaporator during a process of supplying the cold air into a storage compartment.

[0009] The present disclosure is also directed to providing a refrigerator that enhances cooling efficiency by increasing a cold air circulation speed between a storage compartment and an evaporator.

[0010] The present disclosure is also directed to providing a refrigerator and a method for controlling a refrigerator, which can lower the temperature inside a storage compartment more quickly while consuming less power than in the related art when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises due to a door being opened.

[0011] Objects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above objects, and other objects and advantages of the present disclosure that are not described can be more clearly understood by various embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the objects and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by the components stated in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0012] According to one embodiment, there is provided a refrigerator including a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

[0013] The controller is configured to drive the compressor and drive the first blower fan at a predetermined first speed when a temperature of the storage compartment is greater than or equal to a first reference temperature value and the opening of the first door is detected, drive the second blower fan at the second speed while decelerating a speed of the first blower fan to a predetermined second speed when it is determined that a first deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminate the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

[0014] The controller may be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0015] The controller may be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0016] The controller may be configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

[0017] The controller may be configured to drive the second blower fan at the first speed in response to detection of the second door being opened after detection of the first door being opened.

[0018] The controller may be configured to decelerate a speed of at least one of the first blower fan and the second blower fan to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is satisfied.

[0019] The controller may be configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan or an operation time of the second blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0020] The controller may be configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0021] According to one embodiment, there is provided a method for controlling a refrigerator including a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, including driving the compressor when a temperature of the storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and an opening of the first door is detected, driving the first blower fan at a predetermined first speed, driving the second blower fan at a predetermined second speed while decelerating a speed of the first blower fan to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined first deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminating operation of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

[0022] It may be determined that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0023] It may be determined that that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0024] It may be determined that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

[0025] The method may further include driving the second blower fan at the first speed in response to detection of the second door being opened after detection of the first door being opened.

[0026] The method may further include decelerating a speed of the second blower fan to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is satisfied.

[0027] It may be determined that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan or an operation time of the second blower fan exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0028] It may be determined that that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0029] According to one embodiment, there is provided a refrigerator including a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan.

[0030] The controller may be configured to drive the compressor, drive a blower fan corresponding to a storage compartment having a higher temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the first speed, and drive a blower fan corresponding to a storage compartment having a lower temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the second speed when a temperature of the storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference value, decelerate a speed of the blower fan driven at the first speed to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminate the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0031] The controller may be configured to determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the blower fan driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0032] It may be determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the storage compartment having the higher temperature is lower than a temperature of the storage compartment having the lower temperature.

[0033] The controller may be configured to drive the compressor and drive the first blower fan and the second blower fan at the same speed when a temperature of the first storage compartment and a temperature of the second storage compartment are the same and terminate the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage compartment is less than the second reference temperature value.

[0034] According to one embodiment, there is provided a method for controlling a refrigerator including a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, including driving the compressor when a temperature of the storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value, driving a blower fan corresponding to a storage compartment having a higher temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the first speed, driving a blower fan corresponding to a storage compartment having a lower temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the second speed, decelerating a speed of the blower fan driven at the first speed to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminating the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0035] It may be determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the blower fan driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time.

[0036] It may be determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied when a temperature of the storage compartment having the higher temperature is lower than a temperature of the storage compartment having the lower temperature.

[0037] The method may further include driving the compressor when the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the second storage compartment are the same, driving the first blower fan and the second blower fan at the same speed, and terminating the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan when the temperature of the storage compartment is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value.

[0038] According to various embodiments, the cold air generated by the evaporator can be supplied evenly and quickly into the storage compartment.

[0039] According to various embodiments, the loss of cold air generated by the evaporator can be minimized during the process of supplying the cold air into the storage compartment.

[0040] According to various embodiments, the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator can be enhanced by increasing the cold air circulation speed between the storage compartment and the evaporator.

[0041] According to various embodiments, when the temperature inside the storage compartment rises due to the refrigerator door being opened, the temperature inside the storage compartment can be reduced more quickly while consuming less power than in the related art.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an internal structure of the refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view of a grill fan included in the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a front view of a shroud included in the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a grill fan assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 9 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a grill fan assembly according to still another embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIGs. 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIGs. 13 to 15 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to another embodiment. FIG. 16 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having a single blower fan. FIG. 17 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having two blower fans. FIG. 18 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each side cross section of a grill fan assembly having a single blower fan. FIG. 19 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having two blower fans. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] The above objects, features, and advantages will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and thus those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains will be able to easily carry out the technical spirit of the present disclosure. In describing the present disclosure, when it is determined that a detailed description of the known technology related to the present disclosure may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an internal structure of the refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0045] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a cabinet 10.

[0046] A first storage compartment 11 and a second storage compartment 12 may be formed within the cabinet 10. In one embodiment, the first storage compartment 11 may be a refrigerator compartment in which items are stored in a refrigerated state, and second storage compartments 12a and 12b may be a freezer compartment in which items are stored in a frozen state. In addition, the second storage compartment 13 may be a switching compartment, which may be changed to a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment according to a user setting. This is merely an example, and the location and number of storage compartments formed within the cabinet 10 may vary depending on the embodiment. Each storage compartment may be divided by a partition wall 14 within the cabinet 10.

[0047] A first storage compartment door 20 for opening and closing the first storage compartment 11 may be connected to the cabinet 10. The first storage compartment door 20 may include a first door 20a and a second door 20b. In addition, a second storage compartment door 22 for opening and closing the second storage compartment 12 may be connected to the cabinet 10. The second storage compartment door 22 may include a first door 22a and a second door 22b. In one embodiment, the first storage compartment door 20 or the second storage compartment door 22 may be hinge-connected to the cabinet 10 and may rotate about the hinge.

[0048] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the second storage compartment 12 may be divided into three storage spaces 13a, 13b, and 13c. However, such a structure is merely an example, and an internal space of the second storage compartment 12 may be divided differently. For example, in another embodiment, the second storage compartment may include one storage space or two storage spaces.

[0049] An internal space of the first storage compartment 11 may be divided into a first storage compartment opened and closed by the first door 20a and a second storage compartment opened and closed by the second door 20b. In addition, the internal spaces of the second storage compartments 12 and 13 may be divided into a first storage compartment opened and closed by the first door 20a and a second storage compartment opened and closed by the second door 20b.

[0050] The evaporator 32 may be disposed at a rear side of the cabinet 10. The evaporator 32 may evaporate refrigerant supplied from a compressor and a condenser. As the refrigerant is evaporated by the evaporator 32, the air around the evaporator 32 may be cooled to generate cold air.

[0051] A grill fan assembly 17 may be disposed on a front surface of the evaporator 32. The grill fan assembly 17 may suction the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 and discharge the suctioned cold air into the storage chambers 11 and 12. In addition, the grill fan assembly 17 may suction air within the storage chambers 11 and 12 and supply the suctioned air to the evaporator 32.

[0052] A mechanical room 15 may be disposed below the evaporator 32. The compressor (not illustrated) and the condenser (not illustrated) for supplying refrigerant to the evaporator 32 may be disposed within the mechanical room 15. The compressor may suction and compress the refrigerant evaporated by the evaporator 32 and discharge the compressed refrigerant. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor may be supplied to the condenser through a flow path connected between the compressor and the condenser. The condenser may condense the refrigerant supplied from the compressor. The refrigerant condensed by the condenser may be expanded by an expansion mechanism disposed between the condenser and the evaporator 32 and then supplied to the evaporator 32.

[0053] Although not illustrated, a machine room fan for supplying air outside the refrigerator to the compressor and / or the condenser may be disposed in the machine room 15.

[0054] Hereinafter, the structure and function of the grill fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0055] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view of a grill fan included in the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a front view of a shroud included in the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the grill fan assembly according to one embodiment.

[0056] The grill fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment may include a grill fan 100, a shroud 200, a first blower fan 410a, and a second blower fan 410b. The grill fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment may further include an ice-making fan 420.

[0057] The grill fan 100 forms the front surface of the grill fan assembly 17.

[0058] The grill fan 100 may include a cold air accommodation part 150 formed to protrude forward. The cold air accommodation part 150 may include a first blower fan accommodation portion 110a and a second blower fan accommodation portion 110b that accommodate the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b, respectively. The first blower fan accommodation portion 110a and the second blower fan accommodation portion 110b may be formed to protrude forward from the cold air accommodation part 150. When the grill fan 100, the shroud 200, the first blower fan 410a, and the second blower fan 410b may be coupled, at least portions of the first blower fan 410a and second blower fan 410b may be accommodated in the first blower fan accommodation portion 110a and the second blower fan accommodation portion 110b.

[0059] The grill fan 100 may further include a first extension 160a and a second extension 160b, each connected to the cold air accommodation part 150. One ends of the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b may be formed to be bent at a predetermined angle forward. A first lower outlet 131a and a second lower outlet 131b may be formed on the bent end portions of the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b, respectively. Each of the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b may have a shape that is open forward.

[0060] A first protrusion 142a and a second protrusion 142b protruding downward may be disposed below the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b, respectively.

[0061] The first extension 160a and the second extension 160b may be disposed at positions corresponding to a first extension flow path 260a and a second extension flow path 260b formed in the shroud 200, respectively. Accordingly, when the grill fan 100 and the shroud 200 are coupled, the first extension flow path 260a and the second extension flow path 260b may be sealed by the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b, and the first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b, respectively, thereby forming a flow path through which cold air flows.

[0062] The grill fan 100 may include one or more outlets for discharging cold air. In one embodiment, the grill fan 100 may include first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b.

[0063] The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a may OUTGOING AIR introduced into the grill fan assembly 17 into the second storage chambers and 12 through a first inlet 210a and the first blower fan 410a. The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a may include a first upper outlet 111a communicating with an upper storage chamber 13, first middle outlets 121a and 122a communicating with a middle storage chamber 12a, and the first lower outlet 131a communicating with a lower storage chamber 12b.

[0064] The second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may OUTGOING AIR introduced into the grill fan assembly 17 into the second storage chamber 12 through a second inlet 210b and the second blower fan 410b. The second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may include a second upper outlet 111b communicating with the upper storage chamber 13, the second middle outlets 121b and 122b communicating with the middle storage chamber 12a, and the second lower outlet 131b communicating with the lower storage chamber 12b.

[0065] In a front view of the grill fan 100, the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may be disposed on both sides with respect to the center of the grill fan 100, respectively. For example, the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a may be disposed on the left side with respect to the center of the grill fan 100, and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may be disposed on the right side with respect to the center of the grill fan 100. The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may be disposed symmetrically with respect to the center of the grill fan 100, but the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b are not necessarily disposed in exactly symmetrical positions with respect to the center of the grill fan 100.

[0066] The first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a may be disposed at positions corresponding to the first blower the fan accommodation portion 110a, the first blower fan 410a, and the first inlet 210a, and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b may be disposed at positions corresponding to the second blower fan accommodation portion 110b, the second blower fan 410b, and the second inlet 210b.

[0067] With this structure, when the storage room is divided into two spaces (e.g., a left space and a right space) with respect to the center of the grill fan 100, cold air may be separately discharged to each space by the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b. Accordingly, cold air flow paths are separately formed in each space, enabling independent cooling for each space.

[0068] The grill fan 100 may further include a suction guide 140. The suction guide 140 may be connected to a grill fan plate 151 in a direction facing a front side of the grill fan plate 151. The suction guide 140 may be connected to the grill fan plate 151 so as to be bent at a predetermined angle with respect to the grill fan plate 151. The suction guide 140 may be connected to the grill fan plate 151 at the same angle as bent ends of the first extension 160a and the second extension 160b.

[0069] A suction space 141 may be formed on the lower surface of the suction guide 140. As described above, since the suction guide 140 is connected to the grill fan plate 151 in a direction facing a front side of the grill fan 100, a front surface of the suction space 141 is open and unobstructed. Accordingly, the wide suction space 141, which is open in a direction from the front of the grill fan 100 toward a lower surface thereof, may be formed by the suction guide 140. With this structure, a large amount of cold air may be suctioned not only through the lower surface of the suction space 141, but also the front surface of the suction space 141. Accordingly, a flow and circulation speed of the cold air within the storage chamber may increase.

[0070] The cold air flowing in the second storage chambers 13, 12a, and 12b may be guided by the suction guide 140 and suctioned into the suction space 141. The air suctioned into the suction space 141 may move toward the evaporator 32. Since the suction guide 140 protrudes in the direction facing a front side of the grill fan 100, the cold air suctioned through the suction space 141 may be suctioned into the suction space 141 without mixing with the cold air discharged through the first outlets 111a, 121a, 122a, and 131a and the second outlets 111b, 121b, 122b, and 131b.

[0071] In addition, the first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b may be disposed in the suction space 141. The first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b may be disposed at positions corresponding to the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b, respectively. The first protrusion 142a and the second protrusion 142b may block the movement of the cold air discharged from the first lower outlet 131a and the second lower outlet 131b toward the suction space 141.

[0072] The air suctioned into the suction space 141 may move toward the evaporator 32.

[0073] In one embodiment, the first blower fan 410a may be formed at a position corresponding to the first door 22a included in the second storage compartment door 22. Accordingly, the first blower fan 410a may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first storage compartment of the second storage compartment 12 that is opened and closed by the first door 22a.

[0074] In one embodiment, the second blower fan 410b may be formed at a position corresponding to the second door 22b included in the second storage compartment door 22. Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second storage compartment of the second storage compartment 12 that is opened and closed by the second door 22b.

[0075] In one embodiment, the grill fan 100 may include two temperature sensors, that is, a first temperature sensor 171 and a second temperature sensor 172.

[0076] The first temperature sensor 171 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first door 22a included in the second storage compartment door 22. Accordingly, the first temperature sensor 171 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first storage compartment of the second storage compartment 12 that is opened and closed by the first door 22a.

[0077] The second temperature sensor 172 may be formed at a position corresponding to the second door 22b included in the second storage compartment door 22. Accordingly, the second temperature sensor 172 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second storage compartment of the second storage compartment 12 that is opened and closed by the second door 22b.

[0078] In another embodiment, the grill fan 100 may include only one temperature sensor. For example, the grill fan 100 may include only one of the first temperature sensor 171 and the second temperature sensor 172 illustrated in FIG. 4. As another example, the grill fan 100 may include only one temperature sensor disposed between the first blower fan accommodation portion 110a and the second blower fan accommodation portion 110b.

[0079] The shroud 200 forms the rear surface of the grill fan assembly 17.

[0080] The shroud 200 may include the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b. The first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b may be disposed to be spaced a predetermined distance from each other. The first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b may be formed at positions corresponding to the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b, respectively. The cold air generated by the evaporator 32 may be introduced into the grill fan assembly 17 through the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b.

[0081] A number of fixing screws 211 may be disposed around the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b. The first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may each be fixed to the shroud 200 by the fixing screws 211.

[0082] A number of ribs 251, 252, 253, and 254 may be disposed around the first inlet 210a and the second inlet 210b. In one embodiment, a first rib 251 and a second rib 252 may be disposed around the first inlet 210a, and a third rib 253 and a fourth rib 254 may be disposed around the second inlet 210b.

[0083] In one embodiment, the second rib 252 and the third rib 253 may be disposed without contacting each other. Accordingly, an area in which cold air is not introduced may be formed between the second rib 252 and the third rib 253.

[0084] When the grill fan 100 and the shroud 200 are coupled, the upper surfaces of the ribs 251, 252, 253, and 254 may be in contact with the inner surface of the grill fan 100. Accordingly, the first cold air flow path may be formed around the first inlet 210a by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, and the second cold air flow path may be formed around the second inlet 210b by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. The first cold air flow path may communicate with the first extension flow path 260a, and the second cold air flow path may communicate with the second extension flow path 260b.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 6, the first rib 251 may include a first sub-rib 251a, a second sub-rib 251b, and a bent portion 251c.

[0086] One end of the first sub-rib 251a and one end of the second sub-rib 251b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bent portion 251c. In one embodiment, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may be an acute angle when viewed from the leftmost side surface of the shroud 200, and an obtuse angle when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252. However, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0087] At least portions of the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may each be formed in a curved shape having a predetermined curvature. The curvatures of the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, the at least portions of the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b may have a concave or convex shape when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252.

[0088] The second rib 252 may include a first sub-rib 252a, a second sub-rib 252b, and a bent portion 252c.

[0089] One end of the first sub-rib 252a and one end of the second sub-rib 252b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bent portion 252c. In one embodiment, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252, and an acute angle when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. However, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0090] At least portions of the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may each be formed in a curved shape having a predetermined curvature. The curvatures of the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, the at least portions of the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b may have a concave shape when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252.

[0091] In one embodiment, in a front view of the shroud 200, the bent portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the bent portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may be disposed at different heights with respect to the center point of the first inlet 210a. For example, the bent portion 251c included in the first rib 251 may be disposed at a position higher than the center point of the first inlet 210a, and the bent portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may be disposed to a position lower than the center point of the first inlet 210a. This is merely an example, and the positions of the bent portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the bent portion 252c included in the second rib 252 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0092] The third rib 253 may include the first sub-rib 253a, the second sub-rib 253b, and the bent portion 253c.

[0093] One end of the first sub-rib 253a and one end of the second sub-rib 253b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bent portion 253c. In one embodiment, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254, and an acute angle when viewed from the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252. However, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0094] At least portions of the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may each be formed in a curved shape having a predetermined curvature. The curvatures of the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, the at least portions of the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b may have a concave shape when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254.

[0095] The fourth rib 254 may include a first sub-rib 254a, a second sub-rib 254b, and a bent portion 254c.

[0096] One end of the first sub-rib 254a and one end of the second sub-rib 254b may be connected at a predetermined connection angle at the bent portion 254c. In one embodiment, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may be an obtuse angle when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254, and an acute angle when viewed from a rightmost side surface of the shroud 200. However, the connection angle of the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0097] At least portions of the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may each be formed in a curved shape having a predetermined curvature. The curvatures of the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may vary depending on the embodiment. In one embodiment, the at least portions of the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b may have a concave shape when viewed from the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 254 and the fourth rib 254.

[0098] In one embodiment, in a front view of the shroud 200, the bent portion 253c included in the third rib 253 and the bent portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may be disposed at different heights with respect to the center point of the second inlet 210b. For example, the bent portion 253c included in the third rib 253 may be disposed at a position higher than the center point of the second inlet 210b, and the bent portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may be disposed to a position lower than the center point of the second inlet 210b. This is merely an example, and the positions of the bent portion 253c included in the third rib 253 and the bent portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0099] The cold air introduced into the grill fan assembly 17 through the first inlet 210a may be introduced into the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a disposed at a position corresponding to the first inlet 210a and may flow within the first cold air flow path.

[0100] The cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a is separated by the bent portion 251c included in the first rib 251 and the bent portion 252c included in the second rib 252 and flows toward the first sub-ribs 251a and 252a and the second sub-ribs 251b and 252b, respectively.

[0101] As described above, the first sub-rib 251a and the second sub-rib 251b included in the first rib 251 and the first sub-rib 252a and the second sub-rib 252b included in the second rib 252 have a concave shape when viewed from the first cold air flow path. Accordingly, the cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path by the rotation of the first blower fan 410a may collide with a surface of each of the sub-ribs 251a, 251b, 252a, and 252b or rotate while flowing along the surface of each of the sub-ribs 251a, 251b, 252a, and 252b, thereby increasing the flow speed of the cold air within the first cold air flow path.

[0102] The cold air introduced into the first cold air flow path may be discharged into the storage chamber through the first upper outlet 111a or the first middle outlets 121a and 122a disposed at positions corresponding to the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 while flowing through the first cold air flow path.

[0103] In addition, some cold air flowing through the first cold air flow path may be guided by the second sub-ribs 251b and 252b and may move toward the first extension flow path 260a.

[0104] In one embodiment, a width of the first extension flow path 260a may be narrower than that of the first cold air flow path. Accordingly, a speed of the cold air moving from the first cold air flow path to the first extension flow path 260a may increase. The cold air moving to the first extension flow path 260a may be discharged into the storage chamber through the first lower outlet 131a.

[0105] The cold air introduced into the grill fan assembly 17 through the second inlet 210b may be introduced into the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254 by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b disposed at a position corresponding to the second inlet 210b and may flow within the second cold air flow path.

[0106] The cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b is separated by the bent portion 253c included in the third rib 253 and the bent portion 254c included in the fourth rib 254 and flows toward the first sub-ribs 253a and 254a and the second sub-ribs 253b and 254b, respectively.

[0107] As described above, the first sub-rib 253a and the second sub-rib 253b included in the third rib 253 and the first sub-rib 254a and the second sub-rib 254b included in the fourth rib 254 have a concave shape when viewed from the second cold air flow path. Accordingly, the cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path by the rotation of the second blower fan 410b may collide with a surface of each of the sub-ribs 253a, 253b, 254a, and 254b or rotates while flowing along the surface of each of the sub-ribs 253a, 253b, 254a, and 254b, thereby increasing the flow speed of the cold air within the second cold air flow path.

[0108] The cold air introduced into the second cold air flow path may be discharged into the storage chamber through the second upper outlet 111b or the second middle outlets 121b and 122b disposed at positions corresponding to the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254 while flowing through the second cold air flow path.

[0109] In addition, some cold air flowing through the second cold air flow path may be guided by the second sub-ribs 253b and 254b and may move toward the second extension flow path 260b.

[0110] In one embodiment, a width of the second extension flow path 260b may be narrower than that of the second cold air flow path. Accordingly, a speed of the cold air moving from the second cold air flow path to the second extension flow path 260b may increase. The cold air moving to the second extension flow path 260b may be discharged into the storage chamber through the second lower outlet 131b.

[0111] In one embodiment, the shroud 200 may further include a cold air outlet 280. The cold air outlet 280 may communicate with at least a portion of the first cold air flow path formed by the first rib 251 and the second rib 252 and / or at least a portion of the second cold air flow path formed by the third rib 253 and the fourth rib 254. For example, the second rib 252 and the third rib 253 may be disposed to be in contact with each other at the cold air outlet 280. Accordingly, the cold air introduced into the grill fan assembly 1 through the first inlet 210a and / or the cold air introduced into the grill fan assembly 1 through the second inlet 210b may be discharged through the cold air outlet 280.

[0112] In one embodiment, the grill fan 100 may further include a damper connection part 180. The damper connection part 180 may be formed at a position corresponding to the cold air outlet 280. The damper connection part 180 may include an opening. Accordingly, when the grill fan 100 and the shroud 200 are coupled, cold air may be discharged to the outside through the opening formed in the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection part 180.

[0113] However, in one embodiment, the evaporator 31 and the grill fan assembly 2 may not be disposed on the rear surface of the first storage compartment 1. In such a case, the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 disposed on the rear surface of the second storage compartments 12a, 12b, and 13 needs to be supplied into the first storage compartment 11. To supply cold air into the first storage compartment 11, a damper (not illustrated) that forms a flow path for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment may be connected to the damper connection part 180.

[0114] Conversely, when the evaporator 31 and the grill fan assembly 2 are disposed on the rear surface of the first storage compartment 11, cold air does not need to be supplied to the first storage compartment 11 through the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection part 180. Accordingly, in this case, the damper connection part 180 may be provided with a shielding cover 281 for blocking cold air discharged through the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection part 180.

[0115] The grill fan assembly 1 having such a structure may be applied to both the refrigerator with a single evaporator and the refrigerator with a plurality of evaporators, thus offering high compatibility and versatility. Accordingly, the time and cost required for designing and manufacturing the refrigerator can be reduced.

[0116] The positions of the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection part 180 may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the cold air outlet 280 and the damper connection part 180 may be disposed to communicate only with the first cold air flow path without communicating with the second cold air flow path, or communicate only with the second cold air flow path without communicating with the first cold air flow path.

[0117] FIG. 7 illustrates a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the grill fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment.

[0118] FIG. 7 illustrates the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150, the front line F1 and the rear line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the rear line A3 of the shroud 200. In addition, FIG. 7 illustrates a front line C1 and a rear line C2 of the evaporator 32 and a cold air supply area CA formed by the front line C1 and the rear line C2.

[0119] In addition, FIG. 7 illustrates a flow of suctioned cold air that is suctioned from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moves to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and a flow of discharged cold air that is discharged to the storage chamber through the second outlets 111b, 121b, and 131b (or the first outlets 111a, 121a, and 131a).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7, the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) of the grill fan assembly 17 according to one embodiment may be positioned in front of the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150. That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) may be disposed to protrude further forward than the cold air accommodation part 150. With this structure, the storage compartment formed at a position corresponding to the cold air accommodation part 150 may be secured with a larger space.

[0121] In one embodiment, the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) of the grill fan assembly 17 may be parallel to the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150 or the rear line A3 of the shroud 200. That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) may be disposed parallel to the cold air accommodation part 150. Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) disposed behind the cold air accommodation part 150 may be disposed parallel to the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150, respectively.

[0122] In one embodiment, the rear inclined surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air accommodation part 150. As illustrated in FIG. 7, at least a portion of the rear inclined surface 270 may be disposed to overlap the cold air supply area CA of the evaporator 32. Some cold air suctioned through the suction space 141 and cooled by the evaporator 32 may be discharged through the cold air supply area CA. The cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b. In this case, some cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may collide with the rear inclined surface 270 and then move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b.

[0123] FIG. 8 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a grill fan assembly according to another embodiment.

[0124] FIG. 8 illustrates a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the grill fan assembly 17 according to another embodiment.

[0125] FIG. 8 illustrates the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150, the front line F1 and the rear line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the rear line A3 of the shroud 200. In addition, FIG. 8 illustrates the front line C1 and the rear line C2 of the evaporator 32 and the cold air supply area CA formed by the front line C1 and the rear line C2.

[0126] In addition, FIG. 8 illustrates a flow of suctioned cold air that is suctioned from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moves to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and a flow of discharged cold air that is discharged to the storage chamber through the second outlets 111b, 121b, and 131b (or the first outlets 111a, 121a, and 131a).

[0127] Referring to FIGs. 8, the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150 of the grill fan assembly 17 according to another embodiment may be disposed to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). Accordingly, the cold air accommodation part 150 or the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) disposed behind the cold air accommodation part 150 may be disposed so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). The cold air accommodation part 150 or the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) may be disposed so as to be inclined toward the rear surface of the grill fan assembly 1.

[0128] In one embodiment, the rear inclined surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air accommodation part 150. As illustrated in FIG. 8, at least a portion of the rear inclined surface 270 may be disposed to overlap the cold air supply area CA of the evaporator 32. Some cold air suctioned through the suction space 141 and cooled by the evaporator 32 may be discharged through the cold air supply area CA. The cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b. In this case, some cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may collide with the rear inclined surface 270 and then move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b.

[0129] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b is disposed to be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the rear surface of the grill fan assembly 1. Accordingly, a distance between the rear surface of the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b and the cold air supply area CA may be reduced. Accordingly, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may be introduced into the grill fan assembly 1 at a higher speed through the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b. Accordingly, the cold air circulation speed within the refrigerator and the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator can be improved.

[0130] FIG. 9 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a grill fan assembly according to still another embodiment.

[0131] FIG. 9 illustrates a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of the grill fan assembly 17 according to still another embodiment. FIG. 9 illustrates the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a), the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150, the front line F1 and the rear line F2 of the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and the rear line A3 of the shroud 200. In addition, FIG. 9 illustrates the front line C1 and the rear line C2 of the evaporator 32 and the cold air supply area CA formed by the front line C1 and the rear line C2.

[0132] In addition, FIG. 9 illustrates a flow of suctioned cold air that is suctioned from the storage chamber through the suction space 141 and moves to the evaporator 32 and the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a), and a flow of discharged cold air that is discharged to the storage chamber through the second outlets 111b, 121b, and 131b (or the first outlets 111a, 121a, and 131a).

[0133] Referring to FIG. 9, the front line A2 of the cold air accommodation part 150 of the grill fan assembly 17 according to yet another embodiment may coincide with the front line A1 of the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a). That is, the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) may be disposed on the same plane as the cold air accommodation part 150. Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b (or the first blower fan 410a) disposed behind the cold air accommodation part 150 may be disposed parallel to the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a).

[0134] In one embodiment, the rear inclined surface 270 may be formed between the second extension 160b (or the first extension 160a) and the cold air accommodation part 150. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the rear inclined surface 270 may be disposed so as not to overlap the cold air supply area CA. Accordingly, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may move toward the first inlet 210a or the second inlet 210b without colliding with the rear inclined surface 270.

[0135] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the cold air accommodation part 150 is disposed behind the first extension 160a (or the second extension 160b). With this structure, the rear inclined surface 270 connecting the cold air accommodation part 150 and the first extension 160a (or the second extension 160b). As illustrated in FIG. 7, since the rear inclined surface 270 is positioned above the cold air supply area CA, the cold air discharged from the cold air supply area CA may collide with the rear inclined surface 270, thereby reducing the flow rate of the cold air. In addition, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, since a portion of an upper surface of the rear inclined surface 270 faces the cold air supply area CA, the cold air discharged from the cold air supply area CA may collide with the rear inclined surface 270, thereby reducing the flow rate of the cold air.

[0136] However, according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the cold air accommodation part 150 is disposed on the same plane as the first extension 160a or the second extension 160b. Accordingly, the upper surface of the cold air supply area CA may be disposed so as not to overlap the rear inclined surface 270. Accordingly, since the cold air discharged from the cold air supply area CA does not collide with the rear inclined surface 270, the flow rate of the cold air cannot be reduced.

[0137] Accordingly, compared to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 or FIG. 8, the cold air discharged through the cold air supply area CA may be introduced into the grill fan assembly 1 through the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b at a higher speed without resistance from the rear inclined surface 270. Accordingly, the cold air circulation speed within the refrigerator and the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator can be improved.

[0138] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments in which the temperature of the second storage compartment 12, which is opened and closed by the first door 22a and the second door 22b, is controlled will be described. However, various embodiments to be described below may also be implemented in the first storage compartment 11.

[0139] In one embodiment to be described below, the first door 22a may be a left door and the second door 22b may be a right door. However, in another embodiment, the first door 22a may be a right door and the second door 22b may be a left door.

[0140] FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0141] Referring to the drawing, the refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a temperature sensor 170, a controller 30, a compressor 16, the first blower fan 410a, and the second blower fan 410b.

[0142] The temperature sensor 170 may be disposed within the second storage chamber 12 to sense the temperature within the second storage chamber 12. In one embodiment, the temperature sensor 170 may include a first temperature sensor 171 disposed within the first storage compartment, which is opened and closed by the first door 22a, and a second temperature sensor 172 disposed within the second storage compartment, which is opened and closed by the second door 22b. In another embodiment, the temperature sensor 170 may be a single temperature sensor disposed within the second storage chamber 12.

[0143] The controller 30 may control the operations of the compressor 16, the first blower fan 410a, and the second blower fan 410b based on the temperature within the second storage chamber 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170.

[0144] The compressor 16 may be driven under the control of the controller 30. When the compressor 16 is driven, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 16 may be supplied to the evaporator 32 via a condenser (not illustrated) and an expansion mechanism (not illustrated). Accordingly, when the compressor 16 is driven, cold air may be generated by the evaporator 32.

[0145] The first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may each be driven by the controller 30. When the first blower fan 410a is driven, the cold air may be supplied to the first storage compartment . When the second blower fan 410b is driven, the cold air may be supplied to the second storage compartment.

[0146] FIGs. 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0147] Referring to the drawings, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170 is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value (e.g., 3 °C) (502). The first reference temperature value may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0148] When the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 is less than the first reference temperature value in operation 502, the controller 30 may reperform operation 502.

[0149] After determining that the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 is greater than or equal to the first reference temperature value in operation 502, the first door 22a may be opened (504). Accordingly, the controller 30 may detect the opening of the first door 22a.

[0150] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may detect the opening of the first door 22a using a first door sensor (not illustrated) for detecting the opening of the first door 22a. In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the first door 22a is open when the temperature of the first storage compartment sensed by the first temperature sensor 171 is greater than a predetermined opening detection temperature value (e.g., 5 °C). The opening detection temperature value is a value greater than the first reference temperature value and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0151] When the opening of the first door 22a is detected, the controller 30 may drive the compressor 16. Accordingly, the operation of the compressor 16 may begin (506).

[0152] In addition, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a at a predetermined first speed. Accordingly, the first blower fan 410a may be driven at a first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm) (508). The first speed may be set to a different value depending on the embodiment.

[0153] By driving the first blower fan 410a, the cold air can be quickly introduced into the first storage compartment . At this time, by driving the first blower fan 410a, some of the cold air in the first storage compartment may be introduced into the second storage compartment, temporarily increasing the temperature of the second storage compartment.

[0154] After the compressor 16 and the first blower fan 410a are driven, the controller 30 may determine whether a predetermined first deceleration condition is satisfied (510).

[0155] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan 410a exceeds a predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds). The first reference time may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0156] In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when the temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value (e.g., 1 °C). The second reference temperature value is a value that is less than the first reference temperature value and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0157] In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than a predetermined third reference temperature value (e.g., 0 °C). The third reference temperature value is greater than a fourth reference temperature value to be described below and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0158] When it is determined that the first deceleration condition is satisfied, the controller 30 may decelerate the first blower fan 410a to a predetermined second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Accordingly, the first blower fan 410a may be driven at a second speed (512). The second speed is lower than the first speed and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0159] In addition, when it is determined that the first deceleration condition is satisfied, the controller 30 may drive the second blower fan 410b at the second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b may be driven at the second speed (514).

[0160] Due to the deceleration of the first blower fan 410a, an inflow rate of cold air into the first storage compartment can be reduced. In addition, when the second blower fan 410b is driven, cold air may be introduced into the second storage compartment. Accordingly, the temperature of the second storage compartment, which is temporarily increased by the operation of the first blower fan 410a, can be reduced.

[0161] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2 °C) (516). The fourth reference temperature value is lower than the first, second, and third reference temperature values and may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0162] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value in operation 516, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0163] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth reference temperature value in operation 516, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (518). In addition, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (520).

[0164] In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 11, when the opening of the first door is detected, the operation of the compressor is initiated (506), and the first blower fan 410a begins to operate at the first speed (508) and then, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the second door 22b may be opened (530).

[0165] When the opening of the second door 22b is detected, the controller 30 may drive the second blower fan 410b at the first speed. Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b may be driven at the first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm) (532).

[0166] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether a predetermined second deceleration condition is satisfied (534). Based on the determination result of operation 534, the controller 30 may decelerate at least one of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b to the second speed (e.g., 1000 rpm). Accordingly, the first blower fan 410a or the second blower fan 410b may be driven at the second speed (536).

[0167] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when the operation time of the first blower fan 410a or the operation time of the second blower fan 410b exceeds the predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds). When it is determined that the operation time of the first blower fan 410a has exceeded the first reference time, the controller 30 may decelerate the first blower fan 410a to the second speed. When it is determined that the operation time of the second blower fan 410b has exceeded the first reference time, the controller 30 may decelerate the second blower fan 410b to the second speed.

[0168] In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when the temperature of the second storage compartment sensed by the second temperature sensor 172 is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value (e.g., 1 °C). Accordingly, the controller 30 may decelerate the second blower fan 410b to the second speed or decelerate both the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b to the second speed.

[0169] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2 °C) (538).

[0170] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value in operation 538, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0171] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth reference temperature value in operation 538, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (540). In addition, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (542).

[0172] FIGs. 13 to 15 are flowcharts illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to another embodiment.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 13, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 sensed by the temperature sensor 170 is greater than or equal to the predetermined first reference temperature value (e.g., 3 °C) (602). The first reference temperature value may be set differently depending on the embodiment.

[0174] When the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 is less than the first reference temperature value in operation 602, the controller 30 may reperform operation 602.

[0175] When it is determined that the temperature of the second storage compartment 12 is greater than or equal to the first reference temperature value in operation 602, the controller 30 may determine that the first door or the second door is open. Accordingly, the controller 30 may drive the compressor 16 (604).

[0176] After the compressor 16 begins to operate, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the first storage compartment sensed by the first temperature sensor 171 is greater than the temperature of the second storage compartment sensed by the second temperature sensor 172 (606).

[0177] When it is determined that the temperature of the first storage compartment has been greater than the temperature of the second storage compartment in operation 606, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a at the predetermined first speed (e.g., 1500 rpm) (608) and drive the second blower fan 410b at the second predetermined speed (e.g., 1000 rpm) (610). Accordingly, the first storage compartment having a relatively high temperature may be cooled more quickly than the second storage compartment having a relatively low temperature.

[0178] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied (612).

[0179] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when the operation time of the first blower fan 410a exceeds the predetermined first reference time (e.g., 60 seconds).

[0180] In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the temperature of the second storage compartment .

[0181] When it is determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied, the controller 30 may decelerate the first blower fan 410a to the second speed. Accordingly, the first blower fan 410a may be driven at the second speed (614).

[0182] Referring to FIG. 14, while the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth predetermined reference temperature value (e.g., -2 °C) (630).

[0183] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value in operation 630, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0184] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth reference temperature value in operation 630, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (632). In addition, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (634).

[0185] Referring back to FIG. 13,when the temperature of the first storage compartment is not greater than the temperature of the second storage compartment in operation 606, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is higher than the temperature of the first storage compartment (616).

[0186] When it is determined that the temperature of the second storage compartment is higher than that of the first storage compartment in operation 616, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a at the second speed (618) and the second blower fan 410b at the first speed (620). Accordingly, the second storage compartment having a relatively high temperature may be cooled more quickly than the first storage compartment having a relatively low temperature.

[0187] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied (622).

[0188] In one embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when the operation time of the second blower fan 410b exceeds the first reference time.

[0189] In another embodiment, the controller 30 may determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when the temperature of the second storage compartment is lower than the temperature of the first storage compartment.

[0190] When it is determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied, the controller 30 may decelerate the second blower fan 410b to the second speed. Accordingly, the second blower fan 410b may be driven at the second speed (624).

[0191] Referring to FIG. 14, while the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth predetermined reference temperature value (e.g., -2 °C) (630).

[0192] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value in operation 630, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0193] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth reference temperature value in operation 630, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (632). In addition, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (634).

[0194] Referring back to FIG. 13, when it is determined that the temperature of the second storage compartment is not higher than the temperature of the first storage compartment in operation 616, the controller 30 may determine that the temperatures of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are the same.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 15, when it is determined that the temperatures of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are the same in operation 616, the controller 30 may drive the first blower fan 410a at the second speed (640) and drive the second blower fan 410b at the second speed (642).

[0196] While the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b are each being driven, the controller 30 may determine whether the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value (e.g., -2 °C) (644).

[0197] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to the fourth reference temperature value in operation 644, the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b may be continuously driven at the second speed.

[0198] When the temperature of the second storage compartment is less than the fourth reference temperature value in operation 644, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the first blower fan 410a and the second blower fan 410b (646). In addition, the controller 30 may terminate the operation of the compressor 16 (648).

[0199] FIG. 16 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having a single blower fan. FIG. 17 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having two blower fans. FIG. 18 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each side cross section of a grill fan assembly having a single blower fan. FIG. 19 illustrates flow rates of cold air measured at each front cross section of a grill fan assembly having two blower fans.

[0200] A grill fan assembly 18 illustrated in FIGs. 16 and 18 has the same structure as the grill fan assembly 17 illustrated in FIGs. 4 and 7. However, one blower fan is disposed within the grill fan assembly 18 illustrated in FIGs. 16 and 18.

[0201] The grill fan assembly 17 illustrated in FIGs. 17 and 19 has the same structure as the grill fan assembly 17 illustrated in FIGs. 4 and 7. However, two blower fans are disposed within the grill fan assembly 17 illustrated in FIGs. 17 and 19.

[0202] FIGs. 16 and 17 illustrate flow rates of cold air measured at cross sections (Sections A, B, C, and D) of an area in which the evaporator 32 is disposed in front views of each of the grill fan assemblies 18 and 17.

[0203] FIGs. 17 and 19 illustrate flow rates of cold air measured at cross sections (Sections A, B, C, and D,) of an area in which the evaporator 32 is disposed in side views of each of the grill fan assemblies 18 and 17.

[0204] In FIGs. 16 to 19, EA denotes the area in which the evaporator 32 is disposed (hereinafter, an "evaporator area"). In addition, in FIGs. 16 to 19, SA denotes an area in which a flow rate of cold air is 0.3 m / s or less (hereinafter, a "low flow rate area").

[0205] As illustrated in FIGs. 16 and 18, when the single blower fan is disposed within the grill fan assembly 18, the cold air from the evaporator area EA is suctioned by only the single blower fan. However, since the amount of cold air suctioned by the single blower fan is limited, an area of the entire evaporator area EA in which cold air is suctioned by the single blower fan is small. Accordingly, as illustrated in FIGs. 16 and 18, in the evaporator area EA, a flow rate reduction area SA, in which the flow rate of the cold air is very low, covers a large area.

[0206] When the flow rate reduction area SA is wide, the flow rate of the cold air flowing between the grill fan assembly 18 and the evaporator area EA decreases, and thus the cold air inside the storage compartment cannot quickly move toward the evaporator 32, and the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 cannot be quickly supplied into the storage compartment. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the evaporator 32 can be reduced, and the power consumption of the refrigerator can increase.

[0207] On the other hand, as illustrated in FIGs. 17 and 19, when two blower fans are disposed within the grill fan assembly 17, the cold air of the evaporator area EA is suctioned by the two blower fans. Accordingly, compared to the single blower fan, the amount of cold air suctioned by the blower fan increases, and the area of the area in which cold air is suctioned in the entire evaporator area EA increases. Accordingly, the area of the flow rate reduction area SA illustrated in FIGs. 17 and 18 is smaller than that illustrated in FIGs. 16 and 18.

[0208] When the flow rate reduction area SA decreases, the speed of the cold air flowing between the grill fan assembly 17 and the evaporator area EA increases, enabling cold air within the storage compartment to move more quickly toward the evaporator 32, and the cold air generated by the evaporator 32 to be supplied more quickly into the storage compartment. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the evaporator 32 can be enhanced, and the power consumption of the refrigerator can be reduced.

[0209] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the exemplary drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments and drawings disclosed in the present disclosure, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. In addition, even when the effects according to the configuration of the present disclosure have not been explicitly described in the descriptions of various embodiments of the present disclosure, it is apparent that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be recognized.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment (12) including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor (16) configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door (22a) configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door (22b) configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator (32) disposed on one side of the storage compartment (12) and generates cold air using the refrigerant; a first blower fan (410a) disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12); a second blower fan (410b) disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12); and a controller (30) configured to control operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b), wherein the controller (30) is configured to: drive the compressor (16) and drive the first blower fan (410a) at a predetermined first speed when a temperature of the storage compartment (12) is greater than or equal to a first reference temperature value and the opening of the first door (22a) is detected, drive the second blower fan (410b) at the second speed while decelerating a speed of the first blower fan (410a) to a predetermined second speed when it is determined that a first deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminate the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when the temperature of the storage compartment (12) is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the controller (30) is configured to determine that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan (410a) exceeds a predetermined first reference time, when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, or when a temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller (30) is configured to: drive the second blower fan (410b) at the first speed in response to detection of the second door (22b) being opened after detection of the first door (22a) being opened, and decelerate a speed of at least one of the first blower fan (410a) and the second blower fan (410b) to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is satisfied.

4. The refrigerator of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the controller (30) is configured to determine that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan (410a) or an operation time of the second blower fan (410b) exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when a temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

5. A method for controlling a refrigerator including: a storage compartment (12) including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor (16) configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door (22a) configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door (22b) configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator (32) disposed on one side of the storage compartment (12) and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan (410a) disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12), a second blower fan (410b) disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12), and a controller (30) configured to control operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b), the method comprising: driving the compressor (16) when a temperature of the storage compartment (12) is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value and an opening of the first door (22a) is detected; driving the first blower fan (410a) at a predetermined first speed; driving the second blower fan (410b) at a predetermined second speed while decelerating a speed of the first blower fan (410a) to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined first deceleration condition is satisfied; and terminating operation of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined fourth reference temperature value.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein it is determined that the first deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan (410a) exceeds a predetermined first reference time, when a temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value, or when a temperature of the second storage compartment is greater than or equal to a predetermined third reference temperature value.

7. The method of claim 5 or 6, further comprising: driving the second blower fan (410b) at the first speed in response to detection of the second door (22b) being opened after detection of the first door (22a) being opened, and decelerating a speed of the second blower fan (410b) to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined second deceleration condition is satisfied.

8. The method of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein it is determined that the second deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the first blower fan (410a) or an operation time of the second blower fan (410b) exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when a temperature of the second storage compartment is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

9. A refrigerator comprising: a storage compartment (12) including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment; a compressor (16) configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant; a first door (22a) configured to open and close the first storage compartment; a second door (22b) configured to open and close the second storage compartment; an evaporator (32) disposed on one side of the storage compartment (12) and generates cold air using the refrigerant; a first blower fan (410a) disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12); a second blower fan (410b) disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment (12); and a controller (30) configured to control the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b), wherein the controller (30) is configured to: drive the compressor (16), drive a blower fan (410a, 410b) corresponding to a storage compartment having a higher temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the first speed, and drive a blower fan (410a, 410b) corresponding to a storage compartment having a lower temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the second speed when a temperature of the storage compartment (12) is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference value, decelerate a speed of the blower fan (410a, 410b) driven at the first speed to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied, and terminate the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when the temperature of the storage compartment (12) is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

10. The refrigerator of claim 9, wherein the controller (30) is configured to determine that the deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the blower fan (410a, 410b) driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when a temperature of the storage compartment having the higher temperature is lower than a temperature of the storage compartment having the lower temperature.

11. The refrigerator of claim 9 or 10, wherein the controller (30) is configured to: drive the compressor (16) and drive the first blower fan (410a) and the second blower fan (410b) at the same speed when a temperature of the first storage compartment and a temperature of the second storage compartment are the same and terminate the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when the temperature of the storage compartment (12) is less than the second reference temperature value.

12. A method for controlling a refrigerator including a storage compartment including a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment, a compressor configured to compress refrigerant and discharge the compressed refrigerant, a first door configured to open and close the first storage compartment, a second door configured to open and close the second storage compartment, an evaporator disposed on one side of the storage compartment and generates cold air using the refrigerant, a first blower fan disposed in the first storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, a second blower fan disposed in the second storage compartment and configured to introduce the cold air into the storage compartment, and a controller configured to control the operations of the compressor, the first blower fan, and the second blower fan, the method comprising: driving the compressor (16) when a temperature of the storage compartment (12) is greater than or equal to a predetermined first reference temperature value; driving a blower fan (410a, 410b) corresponding to a storage compartment having a higher temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the first speed; driving a blower fan (410a, 410b) corresponding to a storage compartment having a lower temperature among the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment at the second speed; decelerating a speed of the blower fan (410a, 410b) driven at the first speed to the second speed when it is determined that a predetermined deceleration condition is satisfied; and terminating the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when the temperature of the storage compartment (12) is less than a predetermined second reference temperature value.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein it is determined that the deceleration condition is satisfied when an operation time of the blower fan (410a, 410b) driven at the first speed exceeds a predetermined first reference time, or when a temperature of the storage compartment having the higher temperature is lower than a temperature of the storage compartment having the lower temperature.

14. The method of claim 12 or 13, further comprising: driving the compressor (16) when the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the second storage compartment are the same; driving the first blower fan (410a) and the second blower fan (410b) at the same speed; and terminating the operations of the compressor (16), the first blower fan (410a), and the second blower fan (410b) when the temperature of the storage compartment (12) is less than the predetermined second reference temperature value.

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