Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a refrigerator capable of suitably controlling a compressor.SOLUTION: The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing, a cooler, a compressor and a controller. The housing includes a storage chamber. The cooler is provided in the housing. The compressor supplies the cooler with a coolant. The controller carries out a starting operation for starting the compressor when starting the compressor, and carries out the starting operation again when the starting operation fails. The controller has a protection function unit and a threshold changing unit. The protection function unit restricts the starting of the compressor when the number of consecutive fails in the starting operation reaches a predetermined threshold frequency. A threshold detection unit changes the predetermined threshold frequency when a predetermined threshold changing condition is satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a refrigerator. [Background technology]

[0002] Refrigerators having a cooler and a compressor that supplies a refrigerant to the cooler are known. In such refrigerators, it is expected that the installed devices can be more appropriately controlled. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-50294 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of appropriately controlling a compressor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A refrigerator according to an embodiment includes a housing, a cooler, a compressor, and a control unit. The housing includes a storage chamber. The cooler is provided within the housing. The compressor supplies refrigerant to the cooler. When starting the compressor, the control unit performs a start-up operation to start the compressor, and when the start-up operation fails, performs the start-up operation again. The control unit has a protection function unit and a threshold change unit. The protection function unit limits the start-up of the compressor when the number of consecutive failures of the start-up operation reaches a predetermined threshold number. The threshold detection unit changes the predetermined threshold number when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the refrigerator according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator shown in FIG. 1 taken along line F2-F2. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration related to a control unit of the refrigerator according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing a process for implementing a protection function unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on an environmental state according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on input power according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on the occurrence of a disaster according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the process of changing a threshold value based on the occurrence of a disaster according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on a start failure rate according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on a period of non-use according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 5 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on a defrosting process according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing a process of changing a threshold value based on an initial start-up of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, a refrigerator according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals. Further, duplicated descriptions of those components may be omitted. In this application, left and right are defined based on the direction in which the refrigerator is viewed from a user standing in front of the refrigerator. In addition, the side closer to the user standing in front of the refrigerator as viewed from the refrigerator is defined as the "front," and the side furthest from the user is defined as the "rear."

[0008] In this application, "based on XX" means "based on at least XX" and may include cases based on other elements in addition to XX. Furthermore, "based on XX" is not limited to cases based directly on XX, but may also include cases based on XX that has been calculated or processed. In this application, "XX or YY" is not limited to either XX or YY, but may include both XX and YY. This also applies when there are three or more optional elements. XX and YY are any element (e.g., any information).

[0009] [1. Overall configuration of the refrigerator] A refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an overall configuration of the refrigerator 1 will be described. However, the refrigerator 1 does not need to have all of the components described below, and some components may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a front view showing a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F2-F2 of the refrigerator 1 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the refrigerator 1 has, for example, a housing 10, a plurality of doors 11, a plurality of shelves 12, a plurality of containers 13, a flow path forming component 14, a cooling unit 15, and a control device 19.

[0011] The housing 10 has an upper wall 21, a lower wall 22, left and right side walls 23, 24, and a rear wall 25. The upper wall 21 and the lower wall 22 extend substantially horizontally. The left and right side walls 23, 24 rise upward from the left and right ends of the lower wall 22 and are connected to the left and right ends of the upper wall 21. The rear wall 25 rises upward from the rear end of the lower wall 22 and is connected to the rear end of the upper wall 21.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 10 has, for example, an inner box 51, an outer box 52, and a heat insulating section 53. The inner box 51 is a member that forms the inner surface of the housing 10. The outer box 52 is a member that forms the outer surface of the housing 10. The outer box 52 is formed to be slightly larger than the inner box 51, and is disposed outside the inner box 51. The heat insulating section 53 is provided between the inner box 51 and the outer box 52. The heat insulating section 53 is, for example, a foamed heat insulating material such as urethane foam. The heat insulating section 53 may include a vacuum heat insulating material.

[0013] A plurality of storage compartments 27 are provided inside the housing 10. The plurality of storage compartments 27 include, for example, a refrigerator compartment 27A, a vegetable compartment 27B, an ice-making compartment 27C, a small freezer compartment 27D, and a main freezer compartment 27E. In this embodiment, the refrigerator compartment 27A is arranged at the top, the vegetable compartment 27B is arranged below the refrigerator compartment 27A, the ice-making compartment 27C and the small freezer compartment 27D are arranged below the vegetable compartment 27B, and the main freezer compartment 27E is arranged below the ice-making compartment 27C and the small freezer compartment 27D. However, the arrangement of the storage compartments 27 is not limited to the above example, and for example, the arrangement of the vegetable compartment 27B and the main freezer compartment 27E may be reversed, or other arrangements may be used. The housing 10 has an opening on the front side of each storage compartment 27 that allows food to be put in and taken out of each storage compartment 27.

[0014] Each of refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B is a storage compartment in the refrigeration temperature range and is an example of a "first storage compartment." Each of ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E is a storage compartment in the freezing temperature range and is an example of a "second storage compartment."

[0015] The housing 10 has first and second partitions 28, 29. The first and second partitions 28, 29 are, for example, partition walls that are approximately horizontal. The first partition 28 is located between the refrigerator compartment 27A and the vegetable compartment 27B, and separates the refrigerator compartment 27A from the vegetable compartment 27B. On the other hand, the second partition 29 is located between the vegetable compartment 27B and the ice making compartment 27C and the small freezer compartment 27D, and separates the vegetable compartment 27B from the ice making compartment 27C and the small freezer compartment 27D. The second partition 29 has thermal insulation properties.

[0016] The openings of the multiple storage compartments 27 are openably and closably closed by multiple doors 11. The multiple doors 11 include, for example, left and right refrigerator compartment doors 11Aa and 11Ab that close the opening of refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment door 11B that closes the opening of vegetable compartment 27B, ice making compartment door 11C that closes the opening of ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment door 11D that closes the opening of small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment door 11E that closes the opening of main freezer compartment 27E.

[0017] A plurality of shelves 12 are provided in the refrigerator compartment 27A. The multiple containers 13 include a refrigerator compartment container 13A (e.g., a chilled compartment container) provided in the refrigerator compartment 27A, first and second vegetable compartment containers 13Ba, 13Bb provided in the vegetable compartment 27B, an ice making compartment container (not shown) provided in the ice making compartment 27C, a small freezer compartment container 13D provided in the small freezer compartment 27D, and first and second main freezer compartment containers 13Ea, 13Eb provided in the main freezer compartment 27E.

[0018] The flow passage forming parts 14 are disposed inside the housing 10. The flow passage forming parts 14 include a first duct part 31 and a second duct part 32.

[0019] The first duct part 31 is provided along the rear wall 25 of the housing 10 and extends vertically. The first duct part 31 extends, for example, from behind the lower end of the vegetable compartment 27B to behind the upper end of the refrigerator compartment 27A. A first duct space D1, which is a passage through which cool air (air) flows, is formed between the first duct part 31 and the rear wall 25 of the housing 10. The first duct part 31 has a plurality of cool air outlets 31a and a cool air return port 31b. The plurality of cool air outlets 31a are provided at a plurality of height positions in the refrigerator compartment 27A. The cool air return port 31b is provided at the lower end of the first duct part 31 and is located behind the vegetable compartment 27B.

[0020] The second duct part 32 is provided along the rear wall 25 of the housing 10 and extends vertically. The second duct part 32 extends, for example, from the rear of the main freezer 27E to the rear of the upper ends of the ice-making compartment 27C and the small freezer 27D. A second duct space D2, which is a passage through which cold air (air) flows, is formed between the second duct part 32 and the rear wall 25 of the housing 10. The second duct part 32 has a cold air outlet 32a and a cold air return port 32b. The cold air outlet 32a is provided at the upper end of the second duct part 32 and is located behind the ice-making compartment 27C and the small freezer 27D. The cold air return port 32b is provided at the lower end of the second duct part 32 and is located behind the main freezer 27E.

[0021] The cooling unit 15 includes a first cooling module 40, a second cooling module 45, and a refrigeration cycle device 70 (see FIG. 3) that cools the first cooling module 40 and the second cooling module 45 by circulating a refrigerant.

[0022] The first cooling module 40 includes, for example, a first cooler 41 and a first fan 43. The first cooler 41 is disposed in the first duct space D1. The first cooler 41 is disposed, for example, at a height corresponding to the lower end of the refrigerator compartment 27A. The first cooler 41 is supplied with a refrigerant compressed by a compressor 17 (described later) and cools the cold air flowing through the first duct space D1.

[0023] The first fan 43 is provided, for example, at the cold air return port 31b of the first duct part 31. When the first fan 43 is driven, the air in the vegetable compartment 27B flows into the first duct space D1 from the cold air return port 31b. The air that flows into the first duct space D1 flows upward in the first duct space D1 and is cooled by the first cooler 41. The cold air cooled by the first cooler 41 is blown out from the cold air outlets 31a into the refrigerator compartment 27A. After flowing through the refrigerator compartment 27A, the cold air blown out into the refrigerator compartment 27A returns to the cold air return port 31b again via the vegetable compartment 27B. As a result, the cold air flowing through the refrigerator compartment 27A and the vegetable compartment 27B is circulated in the refrigerator 1, and the refrigerator compartment 27A and the vegetable compartment 27B are cooled.

[0024] On the other hand, the second cooling module 45 includes, for example, a second cooler 46 and a second fan 48. The second cooler 46 is disposed in the second duct space D2. The second cooler 46 is supplied with a refrigerant compressed by a compressor 17 (described later) and cools the cold air flowing through the second duct space D2.

[0025] The second fan 48 is provided, for example, at the cold air return port 32b of the second duct part 32. When the second fan 48 is driven, the air in the main freezing chamber 27E flows into the second duct space D2 from the cold air return port 32b. The air that flows into the second duct space D2 flows upward in the second duct space D2 and is cooled by the second cooler 46. The cold air cooled by the second cooler 46 flows into the ice making chamber 27C, the small freezing chamber 27D, and the main freezing chamber 27E from the cold air outlet 32a. The cold air that flows into the ice making chamber 27C and the small freezing chamber 27D flows through the ice making chamber 27C and the small freezing chamber 27D, and then returns to the cold air return port 32b again via the main freezing chamber 27E. As a result, the cold air flowing through ice-making compartment 27C, small freezing compartment 27D, and main freezing compartment 27E is circulated within refrigerator 1, thereby cooling ice-making compartment 27C, small freezing compartment 27D, and main freezing compartment 27E.

[0026] Compressor 17 is provided, for example, in a machine room at the bottom of refrigerator 1. Compressor 17 compresses refrigerant gas used to cool storage room 27. The refrigerant gas compressed by compressor 17 is sent to first and second coolers 41, 46 via a condenser 71 (to be described later) and the like.

[0027] The control device 19 is provided, for example, on the top wall 21 of the housing 10. In this embodiment, the top surface of the top wall 21 of the housing 10 has a recess 84 that is recessed downward. The control device 19 is disposed in the recess 84.

[0028] [2. Refrigeration cycle equipment] The refrigerator 1 configured as above is cooled by a refrigeration cycle device 70 controlled by a control unit 100 described later.

[0029] [2.1. Configuration of refrigeration cycle equipment] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the refrigeration cycle device 70. The refrigeration cycle device 70 is configured by connecting a compressor 17, a condenser 71, a dryer 72, a three-way valve 73, capillary tubes 74 and 75, a first cooler 41, and a second cooler 46 in a ring shape in the order of the refrigerant flow. The condenser 71 and the dryer 72 are connected to the high-pressure discharge port of the compressor 17 in this order via a connecting pipe 76. The three-way valve 73 is connected to the discharge side of the dryer 72. The three-way valve 73 has one inlet to which the dryer 72 is connected, and two outlets. The refrigeration-side capillary tube 74 and the first cooler 41 are connected to one of the two outlets of the three-way valve 73 in this order. The first cooler 41 is connected to the compressor 17 via a refrigeration-side suction pipe 77, which is a connecting pipe.

[0030] Of the two outlets of the three-way valve 73, the other outlet is connected in this order to a refrigeration-side capillary tube 75 and a second cooler 46. The second cooler 46 is connected to the compressor 17 via a refrigeration-side suction pipe 78, which is a connecting pipe. A check valve 79 is provided between the second cooler 46 and the compressor 17 to prevent the refrigerant from the first cooler 41 from flowing back to the second cooler 46 side.

[0031] [2.2. Refrigerant flow in refrigeration cycle equipment] Next, the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle device 70 will be described. First, the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle device 70 is compressed by the compressor 17 to become a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, and flows through the flow path A. This gaseous refrigerant is dissipated heat by the condenser 71 to become a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. After that, the liquid refrigerant passes through the dryer 72, from which impurities such as dirt and moisture have been removed, and enters the refrigeration side capillary tube 74 (or the freezing side capillary tube 75) while being throttled and controlled by the three-way valve 73. At this time, the medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the refrigeration side capillary tube 74 (or the freezing side capillary tube 75) is decompressed while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the refrigeration side suction pipe 77 (or the freezing side suction pipe 78). Then, this refrigerant evaporates while passing through the first cooler 41 (or the second cooler 46), and the inside of the first cooler 41 (or the second cooler 46) is cooled. Thereafter, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows into the refrigeration-side suction pipe 77 (or the freezing-side suction pipe 78). At this time, the temperature of the refrigerant gas immediately after it flows from the first cooler 41 (or the second cooler 46) into the refrigeration-side suction pipe 77 (or the freezing-side suction pipe 78) is low, at around -10°C. However, while passing through the suction pipe 77 (or the suction pipe 78), this refrigerant gas exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the capillary tube 74 (or the capillary tube 75), and is ultimately heated to about room temperature. Then, this refrigerant gas is sucked back into the compressor 17, completing the circulation of the refrigerant.

[0032] In the above-mentioned refrigeration cycle device 70, the three-way valve 73 is controlled by the control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) to select one or both of the flow paths B and C. The flow path B is a flow path that supplies the refrigerant to the first cooler 41 to cool the first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B), while the flow path C is a flow path that supplies the refrigerant to the second cooler 46 to cool the second storage compartment (ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, main freezer compartment 27E). These two flow paths join at a joining point D, and the refrigerant flows from this joining point D in the direction of the arrow E back to the compressor 17.

[0033] [3. Control] 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration related to the control unit 100 of the refrigerator 1. The control device 19 includes the control unit 100, which is configured by a computer having a microcomputer, a timer, etc., and controls the entire refrigerator 1. The first storage chamber temperature sensor 110, the second storage chamber temperature sensor 112, the first cooler temperature sensor 113, the second cooler temperature sensor 114, the memory unit 116, the outside air temperature sensor 121, the outside air humidity sensor 122, the input voltage sensor 123, the communication unit 124, the compressor 17, the three-way valve 73, the first fan 43, the second fan 48, and the operation panel unit 150 are each connected to the control unit 100 and are each controlled by commands from the control unit 100.

[0034] The first storage chamber temperature sensor 110 is provided in the first storage chamber (e.g., in the refrigerator chamber 27A) and detects the air temperature in the first storage chamber. The air temperature in the first storage chamber detected by the first storage chamber temperature sensor 110 is an example of the "temperature of the first storage chamber." Similarly, the second storage chamber temperature sensor 112 is provided in the second storage chamber (e.g., in the main freezer chamber 27E) and detects the air temperature in the second storage chamber. The air temperature in the second storage chamber detected by the second storage chamber temperature sensor 112 is an example of the "temperature of the second storage chamber." Each of the first storage chamber temperature sensor 110 and the second storage chamber temperature sensor 112 includes, for example, a thermistor.

[0035] The first cooler temperature sensor 113 is attached to the first cooler 41 and detects the temperature of the first cooler 41. The second cooler temperature sensor 114 is attached to the second cooler 46 and detects the temperature of the second cooler 46. The first cooler temperature sensor 113 and the second cooler temperature sensor 114 each include, for example, a thermistor.

[0036] The outside air temperature sensor 121 is exposed to the outside of the housing 10, and detects the temperature of the environment in which the refrigerator 1 is installed (for example, the room temperature of the space in which the refrigerator 1 is installed). The outside air temperature sensor 121 includes, for example, a thermistor. The outside air humidity sensor 122 is exposed to the outside of the housing 10, and detects the environment in which the refrigerator 1 is installed (for example, the humidity of the space in which the refrigerator 1 is installed). The outside air humidity sensor 122 detects humidity using, for example, a change in capacitance or resistance.

[0037] The input voltage sensor 123 detects the voltage of a commercial power source (external power source, for example, 100 V) input to the refrigerator 1. Hereinafter, the commercial power source may be referred to as an "input power source."

[0038] The communication unit 124 is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) module, and is capable of communicating with an external server via a modem and a router in the residence in which the refrigerator 1 is installed. For example, when an earthquake occurs, the communication unit 124 receives predetermined disaster occurrence information from the server. The predetermined disaster occurrence information is, for example, information indicating the occurrence of an earthquake of a magnitude equal to or greater than a predetermined standard, such as information on an earthquake of intensity 5 or greater.

[0039] To perform a refrigeration operation to cool the first storage compartment, the control unit 100 switches the three-way valve 73 to switch the refrigerant flow path to flow path B, thereby cooling the first cooler 41. To perform a freezing operation to cool the second storage compartment, the control unit 100 switches the three-way valve 73 to switch the refrigerant flow path to flow path C, thereby cooling the second cooler 46. When both flow paths B and C are selected, both the refrigeration operation and the freezing operation are performed simultaneously.

[0040] The control unit 100 controls the cooling unit 15 so that the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are kept within their respective set temperature zones (target temperature zones), for example, by alternately performing a refrigeration operation and a freezing operation.

[0041] In this embodiment, when starting the compressor 17 that is in a stopped state, the control unit 100 performs a start-up operation to start the compressor 17. If the start-up operation fails, the control unit 100 performs the start-up operation again. Here, "start-up failure" means that the compressor 17 cannot be started due to, for example, the occurrence of an overcurrent or a malfunction related to the meshing of a drive unit.

[0042] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 has a protection function unit 101 to protect the refrigerator 1. The protection function unit 101 restricts the start of the compressor 17 when the number of consecutive failures in the start operation of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number. In other words, even in a situation where the control of the refrigerator 1 requires the start of the compressor 17, when the number of consecutive failures in the start operation of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number, the protection function unit 101 does not perform the start operation of the compressor 17 any more. In this way, the protection function unit 101 restricts the refrigerator 1 from continuing to operate when the refrigerator 1 has a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction, such as when the cable is about to break. "Restricting the start of the compressor" means, for example, making it impossible to perform the start operation. When restricting the start of the compressor 17, it is advisable to record information indicating this in the storage unit 116 or the like. In addition, "restricting the startup of the compressor" is not limited to restricting the startup operation for all driving modes of compressor 17, but may also include restrictions such as allowing the startup operation for driving at a low rotation speed (low speed) below a certain level.

[0043] In this embodiment, when the start of the compressor 17 is restricted, the restriction on the start of the compressor 17 is lifted if a "predetermined return condition" is satisfied thereafter. The "predetermined return condition" is, for example, that the refrigerator 1 is turned off and then turned on again. Alternatively, the "predetermined return condition" may be a connection to a repair terminal or the like to change information in the control unit 100. Even if the "predetermined return condition" is satisfied and the restriction on the start of the compressor 17 is lifted, information that the restriction on the start of the compressor 17 has been executed may be recorded in the storage unit 116 or the like. Note that, although an example in which the restriction on the start of the compressor 17 is lifted when the "predetermined return condition" is satisfied has been described here, the restriction may not be lifted after the "start of the compressor is restricted" without setting the "predetermined return condition". In other words, the protection function unit 101 may perform protection such that the start of the compressor 17 is permanently restricted when the number of consecutive failures in the start operation of the compressor 17 reaches the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number.

[0044] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 includes a threshold value changing unit 102. When a predetermined threshold value changing condition is satisfied, the threshold value changing unit 102 changes the predetermined threshold value number of times used by the protection function unit 101 to limit the number of times the compressor 17 is started.

[0045] The memory unit 116 stores information necessary for operating the refrigerator 1.

[0046] Operation panel unit 150 accepts operations for switching the set temperature range and operation mode of each storage compartment 27, and displays the set contents or the current operation status. Operation panel unit 150 is, for example, a so-called touch-type operation panel unit. The touch-type operation panel unit has a touch sensor formed of a capacitance switch. Operation panel unit 150 also has a display unit that displays the status of refrigerator 1 or warnings.

[0047] [3.1.Protective function section] Next, the processing of the protection function unit 101 will be described in detail. In this embodiment, when starting a refrigeration operation or a freezing operation from a state where the compressor 17 is stopped, the control unit 100 starts the compressor 17. If the compressor 17 is successfully started, the compressor 17 compresses the refrigerant, and the refrigeration cycle device 70 cools the first storage compartment (refrigeration compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B) and the second storage compartment (ice making compartment 27C, small freezing compartment 27D, main freezing compartment 27E). If the control unit 100 fails to start the compressor 17, it starts the compressor 17 again. Then, the control unit 100 repeatedly restarts the compressor 17, and if the compressor 17 is successfully started, the compressor 17 compresses the refrigerant, and the refrigeration cycle device 70 cools the first storage compartment (refrigeration compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B) and the second storage compartment (ice making compartment 27C, small freezing compartment 27D, main freezing compartment 27E).

[0048] In this manner, in this embodiment, if the start-up operation of the compressor 17 fails, the control unit 100 repeats restarting the compressor 17 until the number of consecutive failed start-up operations reaches a predetermined threshold number. If there is no problem with the refrigerator 1, the compressor 17 will be successfully started after one or more (for example, several) start-up operations. However, if the refrigerator 1 has a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction, the compressor 17 may not start even after several start-up operations have been repeated. If the refrigerator 1 continues to restart when a problem occurs in its operation, the malfunction of the refrigerator 1 may become more severe. Therefore, when the number of failed start-up operations of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number, the control unit 100 restricts the start-up operation so that the start-up operation of the compressor 17 is not performed any more in order to protect the refrigerator 1. When the number of consecutive failed start-up operations of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number, the control unit 100 thus realizes the processing of the protection function unit 101 that restricts the start-up of the compressor 17 until a predetermined recovery condition is satisfied when the number of consecutive failed start-up operations of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number.

[0049] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process for implementing the protection function unit 101. As shown in FIG. The control unit 100 performs a start-up operation of the compressor 17 (step S101), and determines whether the start-up operation of the compressor 17 is successful or not (step S102). If the start-up operation of the compressor 17 is successful (step S102: Yes), the control unit 100 executes a normal cooling process (refrigeration operation or freezing operation) by the refrigeration cycle device 70 (step S103). On the other hand, if the start-up operation of the compressor 17 is not successful (step S102: No), the control unit 100 determines whether the number of start-ups of the compressor 17 (the number of failed start-up operations) has reached a predetermined threshold number (step S104).

[0050] When the control unit 100 determines in step S104 that the number of activations of the compressor 17 has not reached the predetermined threshold number (step S104: No), it increments the count of the number of activations by one (step S105) and returns the process to step S101. Then, the control unit 100 determines in step S104 whether the number of activations of the compressor 17 has reached the threshold number.

[0051] In this way, if it is determined in step S102 that the startup operation of the compressor 17 has failed, the processes from step S101 to step S105 are repeated to restart the compressor 17. If the startup of the compressor 17 is successful before the number of restarts reaches the threshold number, it is determined in step S102 that the startup operation has been successful (step S102: Yes), and normal cooling processing is performed in step S103.

[0052] If the compressor 17 does not succeed in starting up even after repeating the processes from step S101 to step S105, and the number of times the compressor 17 has been started reaches a predetermined threshold number (step S104: Yes), the control unit 100 ends the continuation of the start-up operation of the compressor 17 (step S106). Then, the control unit 100 notifies the user of the occurrence of a malfunction by displaying, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) on the operation panel unit 150 (step S107).

[0053] In this way, when the start-up operation of the compressor 17 fails, the protection function unit 101 repeatedly restarts the compressor 17, and when the number of failures in the start-up operation of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number, ends the start-up operation of the compressor 17, thereby performing a process to protect the refrigerator 1.

[0054] [3.2. Threshold change section] As described above, the protection function unit 101 limits the startup operation of the compressor 17 when the number of failures in the startup operation of the compressor 17 reaches a predetermined threshold number. Here, when considering the continuation of operation of the refrigerator 1, it may be preferable that the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number is set to a large value so that the operation of the refrigerator 1 continues even if the startup operation of the compressor 17 fails for a certain number of consecutive times. On the other hand, when a malfunction or a symptom of a malfunction occurs in the refrigerator 1, it may be preferable for the protection function unit 101 to restrict the startup operation of the compressor 17 early. Therefore, when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied, the threshold change unit 102 changes the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number used by the protection function unit 101 to limit the number of startups of the compressor 17.

[0055] Considering the above two contradictory cases, the following two cases are considered as preferable operations of the refrigerator 1. The first concept is to set a large value (e.g., 10 times) as a standard value (basic setting value) of the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times, and to make it difficult for the protection function unit 101 to impose restrictions during normal operation, and to change the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to a value lower than the standard value (e.g., from 10 times to 6 times) when a predetermined threshold change condition is met under which the refrigerator 1 is likely to have a malfunction or a warning sign of a malfunction, and to impose restrictions by the protection function unit 101 at an earlier stage. Embodiments based on this concept will be described below as the first to fifth embodiments.

[0056] On the other hand, the second idea is to set a small value (e.g., 6 times) as a standard value (basic setting value) of the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times, making it easier for protection function unit 101 to implement the restriction early, and when a predetermined threshold change condition is met under which the startup operation of compressor 17 is likely to fail even in a state in which there is no failure or symptom of failure in refrigerator 1, to change the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to an increased value (e.g., from 6 times to 10 times), making it harder for protection function unit 101 to implement the restriction. Embodiments based on this idea will be described below as the sixth to eighth embodiments.

[0057] [3.2.1. Changing the threshold value according to environmental conditions] (First embodiment) For example, if refrigerator 1 is placed close to a wall of a room and air tends to stagnate, the temperature around refrigerator 1 will rise, which may significantly accelerate the deterioration of refrigerator 1's parts. Similarly, if refrigerator 1 is placed close to a wall of a room and air tends to stagnate, the humidity around refrigerator 1 will rise, which may significantly accelerate the deterioration of refrigerator 1's parts. If compressor 17 is repeatedly restarted when parts are significantly deteriorated, refrigerator 1 will continue to operate in a state where a breakdown or a sign of a breakdown has occurred in refrigerator 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, control unit 100 detects the temperature and / or humidity around refrigerator 1, and performs a process of reducing the predetermined threshold number of times when an index value obtained based on the detection result satisfies a predetermined environmental condition for a predetermined period of time.

[0058] 6 is a flow chart showing a process for changing the above-mentioned threshold number of times depending on the environment. First, the control unit 100 sets the above-mentioned threshold number of times to a standard value (step S201). Here, the standard value is a standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0059] The threshold change unit 102 acquires sensor data from the outdoor air temperature sensor 121 and / or the outdoor air humidity sensor 122 (step S202). The sensor data may be acquired at a set time interval, such as every 30 minutes or every hour, or at a set time, such as 7:00 a.m., 12:00 noon, or 7:00 p.m.

[0060] Next, the threshold change unit 102 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed (step S203), and if the predetermined period has not elapsed (step S203: No), the process returns to step S202. By repeating steps S202 to S203, sensor data from the outside air temperature sensor 121 and / or the outside air humidity sensor 122 within the predetermined period is acquired. The "predetermined period" is, for example, a period longer than one year (for example, two years).

[0061] When the sensor data over a predetermined period is acquired, the threshold change unit 102 processes the acquired data (step S204). The processing of the acquired data is a process of obtaining an index value for evaluating whether or not the sensor data over the predetermined period satisfies a predetermined environmental condition.

[0062] The threshold change unit 102 uses an index obtained from the processing result of the acquired data to determine whether or not the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied over the predetermined period (step S205). For example, the threshold change unit 102 determines that the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied when the temperature detected by the outside air temperature sensor 121 exceeds a threshold temperature (e.g., 35°C) at least once every day. As another example, the threshold change unit 102 determines that the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied when the temperature detected by the outside air temperature sensor 121 falls below a threshold temperature (e.g., 0°C) at least once every day. As another example, the threshold change unit 102 determines that the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied when the humidity detected by the outside air humidity sensor 122 exceeds a threshold humidity (e.g., 70%) at least once every day. As another example, the threshold change unit 102 determines that the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied when the humidity detected by the outside air humidity sensor 122 falls below a threshold humidity (e.g., 20%) at least once every day.

[0063] In step S205, the threshold change unit 102 determines whether the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied over the predetermined period, and if it is determined that the predetermined environmental condition is satisfied over the predetermined period (step S205: Yes), it reduces the predetermined threshold number of times (for example, to 6 times) (step S206). If it is determined that the predetermined environmental condition is not satisfied over the predetermined period (step S205: No), the control unit 100 maintains the predetermined threshold number of times as the standard value and returns the process to step S202. Note that the predetermined period is not set anew every year, but a plurality of predetermined periods whose start dates are shifted by a predetermined number of days (for example, one month) may be set simultaneously, and the determination process of S205 may be performed every predetermined number of days.

[0064] For example, if the environmental conditions in which the refrigerator 1 is installed are severe, deterioration of the components of the refrigerator 1 may progress significantly. If the refrigerator 1 is placed in an environment where the ambient temperature exceeds, for example, 35°C, as a result of the processes from step S201 to step S206, it is determined in step S205 that the ambient environment satisfies the above-mentioned predetermined environmental conditions. As a result, the upper limit of the allowable number of failures in the startup operation of the compressor 17 is reduced from the standard value of 10 times to 6 times, for example, and the refrigerator 1 is prevented from being continuously operated in a state where it is highly likely that the refrigerator 1 is malfunctioning or has a sign of malfunction.

[0065] Note that, when the threshold number of times is reduced in step S206 and the refrigerator 1 has been installed in a harsh environment for a long period (e.g., two years or more) that exceeds a predetermined standard, even if the setting environment of the refrigerator 1 changes thereafter (the harsh environment is resolved), the threshold number of times that has been reduced once may be maintained as is. On the other hand, when the threshold number of times is reduced in step S206 and it is determined that the harsh environment was resolved before the refrigerator 1 was installed in the harsh environment for a long period (e.g., two years or more) that exceeds a predetermined standard, the threshold number of times that has been reduced once may be increased (for example, may be returned to the original standard value).

[0066] [3.2.2. Changing the threshold value depending on the input power state] (Second embodiment) If the voltage of the input power supply to the refrigerator 1 is continuously low beyond a predetermined voltage range, or if the voltage fluctuation of the input power supply is large, the deterioration of the components of the refrigerator 1 may have progressed significantly, causing a breakdown or a sign of a breakdown in the refrigerator 1. If the compressor 17 is repeatedly restarted when the components are significantly deteriorated, the refrigerator 1 will continue to operate in a state where a breakdown or a sign of a breakdown has occurred in the refrigerator 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the threshold value changing unit 102 detects the voltage of the input power supply to the refrigerator 1 using the input voltage sensor 123, and performs a process of reducing the predetermined threshold number of times when an index value obtained based on the detection result satisfies a predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period of time.

[0067] 7 is a flow chart showing a process for changing the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times depending on the input power state. The threshold change unit 102 first sets the threshold to a standard value (step S301). Here, the standard value is a standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0068] The threshold change unit 102 acquires detection data of the input voltage of the refrigerator 1 (step S302). The detection data of the input voltage of the refrigerator 1 can be acquired, for example, by sampling the detection signal of the input voltage sensor 123.

[0069] Next, the threshold change unit 102 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed (step S303), and if the predetermined period has not elapsed (step S303: No), the process returns to step S302. By repeating steps S302 to S303, detection data of the input voltage within the predetermined period is acquired. The "predetermined period" is, for example, a period exceeding one year (for example, two years).

[0070] When the detection data of the input voltage over a predetermined period is acquired, the threshold change unit 102 processes the acquired data (step S304). The processing of the acquired data is a process of acquiring, for example, an average value of the difference between a predetermined power supply voltage (e.g., 100V) and the input voltage from the detection data of the input voltage, and obtaining an index value for evaluating whether the voltage is higher or lower than the predetermined voltage over the predetermined period, or whether the voltage fluctuation is larger than a predetermined standard.

[0071] The threshold modification unit 102 uses an index value obtained from the processing result of the acquired data to determine whether or not the predetermined normal condition has been exceeded over the predetermined period (step S305). For example, the rated voltage of a commercial power source in Japan is 100V. The threshold modification unit 102 determines that the normal condition has been exceeded if the frequency at which the input voltage has fallen out of the allowable voltage range during the predetermined period is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value. Alternatively / in addition to the above, the threshold modification unit 102 may calculate the fluctuation rate of the input voltage during the predetermined period, and determine that the normal condition has been exceeded if the fluctuation rate of the input voltage is equal to or exceeds a predetermined value.

[0072] If the threshold change unit 102 determines in step S305 that the normal condition is not satisfied over the predetermined period (step S305: Yes), it reduces the predetermined threshold number of times (for example, to six times) (step S306). On the other hand, if the threshold change unit 102 determines that the normal condition is not satisfied over the predetermined period (step S305: No), it maintains the predetermined threshold number of times at the standard value and returns the process to step S302. Note that the predetermined period is not set anew every year, but a plurality of predetermined periods whose start dates are shifted by a predetermined number of days (for example, one month) may be set simultaneously, and the determination process of S305 may be performed every predetermined number of days.

[0073] In addition, when the threshold number of times is decreased in step S306, and the input voltage has deviated from the normal condition for a long period (e.g., two years or more) that exceeds a predetermined standard, even if the input voltage subsequently continuously satisfies the normal condition (the abnormal state is resolved), the threshold number of times may be maintained at the decreased value. On the other hand, when the threshold number of times is decreased in step S306, and it is determined that the abnormal state is resolved before the input voltage deviates from the normal condition for a long period (e.g., two years or more) that exceeds a predetermined standard, the threshold number of times may be increased (for example, may be returned to the original standard value).

[0074] [3.2.3. Changing the threshold when a disaster occurs] (Third embodiment) When a large earthquake of seismic intensity exceeding 5 occurs, refrigerator 1 receives a physical shock, which may cause a malfunction in a component of refrigerator 1. If compressor 17 is repeatedly restarted in a state where a malfunction has occurred in a component of refrigerator 1, refrigerator 1 will continue to operate in a state where a malfunction or a warning sign of a malfunction has occurred in refrigerator 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, threshold value changing unit 102 performs a process of reducing the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times when predetermined disaster occurrence information is received.

[0075] 8 is a flow chart showing a process for changing the threshold value when a disaster occurs. The threshold value changing unit 102 first sets the threshold value to a standard value (step S401). Here, the standard value is a standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0076] The threshold change unit 102 determines whether or not predetermined disaster occurrence information has been received (step S402). The disaster occurrence information is acquired by receiving the disaster occurrence information transmitted from an external server by the communication unit 124. The acquired disaster occurrence information is, for example, information indicating the occurrence of a large earthquake such as a seismic intensity of 5 or more.

[0077] When disaster occurrence information is acquired (step S402: Yes), the threshold change unit 102 decreases the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times (for example, to six times) (step S403).

[0078] In this embodiment, after reducing the predetermined threshold number of times, threshold change unit 102 determines whether normal operation has been performed for a predetermined period of time (steps S404 and S405). If it is determined that normal operation has been performed for the predetermined period of time (step S405: Yes), threshold change unit 102 increases the value of the predetermined threshold number of times (for example, returns the value to the standard value of 10 times (step S406)). Normal operation means, for example, that values ​​detected by various sensors are within a preset normal range. Alternatively, instead of the above example, threshold change unit 102 may reduce the predetermined threshold number of times when predetermined disaster occurrence information is received, and thereafter, maintain the reduced predetermined threshold number of times even if refrigerator 1 has been operating normally for a predetermined period of time. This is because there is a possibility that parts may be damaged by a large earthquake.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing another example of processing for changing the threshold value when a disaster occurs. In the above example, the threshold value changing unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold value count when disaster occurrence information is received, and increases the predetermined threshold value count when the refrigerator 1 operates normally for a predetermined period of time thereafter. In contrast, in this example, the threshold value changing unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold value count when disaster occurrence information is received, and then inspects each part of the refrigerator 1 after the disaster occurs, and after the normal state is confirmed, increases the predetermined threshold value count and allows the high-voltage parts (e.g., heater) to resume operation.

[0080] First, the threshold value changing unit 102 sets the threshold value to a standard value (step S451). Here, the standard value is a standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0081] The threshold value changing unit 102 judges whether the predetermined disaster occurrence information is received (step S452). If the predetermined disaster information is acquired (step S452: Yes), the threshold value changing unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, six times (step S453). In addition, the control unit 100 stops the compressor 17 (step S454) and stops the operation of high-pressure components (for example, the heater) (step S455).

[0082] Thereafter, the control unit 100 determines whether or not an inspection for refrigerant leakage and high-pressure components (heater) has been performed (step S456). Refrigerant leakage can be detected, for example, by a sensor (for example, a pressure sensor) provided in the refrigeration cycle device 70. Furthermore, when refrigerant leakage occurs, the load on the motor that drives the compressor 17 decreases. Therefore, refrigerant leakage can be detected from the load on the motor that drives the compressor 17. If the inspection has been performed (step S456: Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is no malfunction such as refrigerant leakage and the refrigerator 1 is in a normal state (step S457). Furthermore, if the inspection has not been performed (step S456: No), the control unit 100 returns the process to step S453.

[0083] If the inspection result shows that the refrigerator 1 is in a normal state (step S457: Yes), the control unit 100 increases the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, 10 times (step S458). Then, the control unit 100 allows the operation of high-voltage components (for example, a heater) (step S459). On the other hand, if the inspection result shows that the refrigerator 1 is not operating normally (step S457: No), the control unit 100 returns the process to step S453.

[0084] In this way, when disaster occurrence information is received, the predetermined threshold number of times can be reduced, and when the state of the refrigerator 1 satisfies the predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period thereafter, the predetermined threshold number of times can be increased. Also, when disaster occurrence information is received, the predetermined threshold number of times can be reduced, and when it is confirmed that the refrigerator 1 is normal after inspection, the predetermined threshold number of times can be increased. Note that the number of times the threshold number is increased when it is confirmed that the normal condition is satisfied or that the refrigerator is normal is not limited to being increased to the original threshold number of times. For example, the initial threshold number can be set to 10 times, and when an earthquake occurs, the threshold can be reduced to 6 times, and when it is confirmed that the normal condition is satisfied or that the refrigerator is normal, the threshold can be increased to 8 times.

[0085] 9, when disaster occurrence information is received, not only is the predetermined threshold number of times that specifies the number of times compressor 17 is restarted reduced, but also components other than compressor 17 are stopped. That is, it may not be desirable to operate high-voltage components (e.g., heater) in a state in which a failure has occurred in refrigerator 1. Therefore, when disaster occurrence information is received, the operation of the high-voltage components (e.g., heater) is stopped in step S455. Thereafter, control unit 100 determines whether the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies a predetermined normal condition, and when it is determined that the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies the normal condition, in step S459, allows the operation of the high-voltage components (e.g., heater) to resume.

[0086] When disaster occurrence information is received, control unit 100 may stop compressor 17 instead of / in addition to the high-pressure components (e.g., heater), and then determine whether or not the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies a predetermined normal condition. If it is determined that the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies the normal condition (e.g., there is no refrigerant leakage), control unit 100 may allow the operation of compressor 17 to resume.

[0087] [3.2.4. Changing the threshold when the frequency of startup failures is high] (Fourth embodiment) Compressor 17 becomes difficult to start due to deterioration, etc. In other words, when compressor 17 is difficult to start, there is a possibility that a failure or a sign of a failure has occurred in the entire refrigerator 1. For this reason, the start failure rate of compressor 17 may be set as a condition, and when the start failure rate of compressor 17 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times may be reduced.

[0088] 10 is a flow chart showing the process of changing the threshold value using the start failure rate as a condition. The threshold value changing unit 102 first sets the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to a standard value (step S501). Here, the above-mentioned standard value is a standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0089] The threshold change unit 102 determines whether or not the startup operation of the compressor 17 has been performed (step S502), and if the startup operation of the compressor 17 has been performed (step S502: Yes), counts the number of successful and unsuccessful startup operations (step S503).

[0090] The threshold change unit 102 determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed (step S504), and if the predetermined period of time has not elapsed (step S504: No), returns the process to step S502. By repeating steps S502 to S504, data on the number of times the compressor 17 is started over the predetermined period of time is acquired. When the predetermined period of time has elapsed and data on the number of times the compressor 17 is started has been acquired (step S504: Yes), the threshold change unit 102 calculates the start failure rate of the compressor 17 (step S505).

[0091] The threshold change unit 102 determines whether the start failure rate of the compressor 17 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S506). If the start failure rate is equal to or greater than the predetermined value in step S506 (step S506: Yes), the threshold change unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, six times (step S507). On the other hand, if the start failure rate is less than the predetermined value (step S506: No), the threshold change unit 102 maintains the predetermined threshold number of times as it is and returns the process to step S502.

[0092] [3.2.5. Changing the threshold when the period of non-use is long] (Fifth embodiment) For example, after the refrigerator 1 has been used, if the living environment changes due to moving or the like, the refrigerator 1 may go unused (unpowered) for a certain period of time. If the refrigerator 1 goes unused for a period longer than a certain period (for example, six months), the refrigerator's parts may deteriorate during that time.

[0093] 11 is a flow chart showing the process of changing the threshold value based on the period of non-use of the refrigerator. The control unit 100 sets the threshold value to a standard value (step S601). Here, the standard value is the standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, 10 times.

[0094] The threshold value changing unit 102 determines whether the refrigerator 1 has not been used for a certain period of time or more after it has been used once, based on the operation history data of the refrigerator 1 stored in the memory unit 116 (step S602), and if the refrigerator 1 has not been used for a certain period of time or more (step S602: Yes), it reduces the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, six times (step S603). The period of time the refrigerator 1 has not been used can be determined by storing information on the amount of time the refrigerator 1 has been powered on.

[0095] [3.2.6. Changing the threshold value immediately after defrosting] (Sixth embodiment) The number of failures of compressor 17 may increase regardless of deterioration of refrigerator components. For example, immediately after defrosting first cooler 41 or second cooler 46, the load on compressor 17 increases at startup, increasing the possibility that the startup operation of compressor 17 will fail. Therefore, when the startup operation of compressor 17 is performed immediately after defrosting, the number of restarts may reach the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number, and compressor 17 may not be able to start. Therefore, in this embodiment, the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number is increased immediately after defrosting.

[0096] 12 is a flow chart showing the process of changing the threshold value under the condition that the defrosting process has just been performed. The threshold value changing unit 102 first sets the threshold value to a standard value (step S701). Here, the standard value is the standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, six times.

[0097] The threshold change unit 102 determines whether or not it is immediately after the defrosting process (within a predetermined time from the end of defrosting) (step S702), and if it is immediately after the defrosting process (within a predetermined time from the end of defrosting) (step S702: Yes), increases the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, 10 times (step S703). The above-mentioned predetermined time is, for example, 15 minutes.

[0098] [3.2.7. Changing the threshold value at the first startup after sales] (Seventh embodiment) When compressor 17 is started for the first time after the sale of refrigerator 1, the refrigerant is in a solidified state (a so-called dormant state), and the load on compressor 17 at the time of startup is high. For this reason, there is a high possibility that the startup operation of compressor 17 will fail. Therefore, at the initial startup of refrigerator 1 after sale, the number of restarts may reach the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number, and compressor 17 may not be able to start. Therefore, in this embodiment, at the initial startup of refrigerator 1 after sale, the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number is increased.

[0099] 13 is a flow chart showing the process of changing the threshold value on the condition of initial start-up after sale. The threshold value changing unit 102 first sets the threshold value to a standard value (step S801). Here, the standard value is the standard number of times when the refrigerator 1 is normally operated, for example, six times.

[0100] The threshold value changing unit 102 determines whether or not it is the initial start-up time after the sale (step S802), and if it is the initial start-up time after the sale (step S802: Yes), increases the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times to, for example, 10 times (step S703). Note that the threshold value changing unit 102 determines whether or not it is the initial start-up time after the sale based on, for example, the operation history data stored in the storage unit 116.

[0101] [3.2.8. Changing other thresholds] (Eighth embodiment) In addition to the above, it is possible to change the threshold number of times under various other conditions. For example, the state of the refrigerant changes in the hot summer months and the cold winter months. For this reason, the threshold number of times may be changed according to the season. For example, in the hot summer months, the load on the compressor 17 increases when it is started, and the number of restarts is more likely to reach the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times. For this reason, the threshold number changing unit 102 increases the above-mentioned predetermined threshold number of times when it corresponds to a specific season (for example, from July to August).

[0102] [4. Advantages] The refrigerator 1 of the embodiment includes a housing 10 including a storage compartment 27, coolers 41, 46 provided in the housing 10, a compressor 17 that supplies refrigerant to the cooler, and a control unit 100 that performs a start-up operation to start the compressor 17 when starting the compressor 17 and performs the start-up operation again if the start-up operation fails. The control unit 100 has a protection function unit 101 that restricts the start-up of the compressor 17 until a predetermined recovery condition is satisfied when the number of consecutive failures in the start-up operation reaches a predetermined threshold number, and a threshold change unit 102 that changes the predetermined threshold number when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied.

[0103] According to this configuration, the protection function unit 101 restricts the start of the compressor 17, so that it is possible to prevent the refrigerator 1 from being used continuously in a state where a failure or a sign of a failure has occurred in the refrigerator 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the threshold change unit 102 reduces the above-mentioned predetermined threshold count when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, by reducing the predetermined threshold count when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied, it is possible to set a large value (a loose value) as the standard value of the above-mentioned predetermined threshold count, and it is possible to implement protection by the protection function unit 101 at an early stage in a state where a failure or a sign of a failure may have occurred in the refrigerator 1.

[0104] In this embodiment, the refrigerator 1 is further provided with sensors 121, 122 for detecting the state of the environment in which the refrigerator 1 is installed, and the predetermined threshold change condition is that the index value obtained based on the detection results of the sensors 121, 122 satisfies a predetermined environmental condition for a predetermined period of time. In this embodiment, a large value (loose value) can be set as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, and when the refrigerator 1 is placed in a harsh environment and there is a possibility that parts have deteriorated, the predetermined threshold number of times can be reduced, thereby enabling protection by the protection function unit 101 at an early stage.

[0105] In this embodiment, a sensor 123 for detecting the state of the input power is further provided, and the predetermined threshold change condition is that the index value obtained based on the detection result of the sensor deviates from a predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period of time. In this embodiment, a large value (loose value) can be set as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, and when the voltage of the input power source fluctuates greatly or deviates from the allowable value and there is a possibility that a component is degraded, the predetermined threshold number of times can be reduced to implement protection by the protection function unit 101 at an early stage.

[0106] In this embodiment, the refrigerator further includes a communication unit 124 capable of communicating with the outside, and the predetermined threshold change condition is that predetermined disaster occurrence information is received by the communication unit 124. In this embodiment, a large value (loose value) can be set as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, and protection by the protection function unit 101 can be implemented at an early stage in a state where there is a possibility that the refrigerator 1 may have a breakdown or a precursor to a breakdown due to the occurrence of a disaster such as an earthquake.

[0107] In this embodiment, the threshold changing unit 102 decreases the predetermined threshold number of times when disaster occurrence information is received, and thereafter increases the predetermined threshold number of times when the state of the refrigerator 1 satisfies a predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period of time. In this embodiment, the threshold value changed when a disaster occurs can be returned to a large value (a loose value) when the refrigerator 1 has no breakdown or signs of breakdown.

[0108] In this embodiment, when disaster occurrence information is received, threshold change unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold number of times, and when disaster occurrence information is received, control unit 100 stops compressor 17, and then determines whether the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies predetermined normal conditions, and when it is determined that the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies the normal conditions, allows the restart of operation of compressor 17. As a result, in this embodiment, the operation of compressor 17 can be safely restarted.

[0109] In this embodiment, when disaster occurrence information is received, threshold change unit 102 reduces the predetermined threshold number of times, and when disaster occurrence information is received, control unit 100 stops a predetermined part other than compressor 17, and then determines whether or not the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies a predetermined normal condition, and when it is determined that the state of refrigerator 1 satisfies the normal condition, allows the operation of the predetermined part to be resumed. As a result, in this embodiment, the operation of the predetermined part can be resumed safely.

[0110] In this embodiment, the predetermined threshold change condition is when the frequency of failure of the startup operation of the compressor 17 exceeds a standard. In this embodiment, a large value (a loose value) can be set as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, and when the frequency of failure of the startup operation of the compressor 17 exceeds the standard, the predetermined threshold number of times is reduced, so that protection by the protection function unit 101 can be implemented at an early stage.

[0111] In this embodiment, the predetermined threshold change condition is that the refrigerator 1 has been unused for a period exceeding a predetermined period after being used once. In this embodiment, a large value (loose value) can be set as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, and when the refrigerator 1 has been unused for a period of time and there is a possibility that parts of the refrigerator 1 have deteriorated, the predetermined threshold number of times can be reduced, thereby enabling protection by the protection function unit 101 at an early stage.

[0112] In this embodiment, the threshold change unit 102 increases the predetermined threshold number of times when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the compressor 17 from becoming unable to start due to the number of restarts exceeding the threshold even in a state unrelated to a failure.

[0113] In this embodiment, the predetermined threshold change condition is a case where a predetermined time has passed since the end of defrosting of the first cooler 41 or the second cooler 46. In this embodiment, by setting a small value (strict value) as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, it is possible to implement protection by the protection function unit 101 at an early stage when a failure or a sign of a failure occurs in the refrigerator 1, and also to prevent the compressor 17 from being unable to start up by increasing the predetermined threshold number of times when the load at the start-up of the compressor 17 increases due to defrosting.

[0114] In this embodiment, the predetermined threshold change condition is the first start of compressor 17 after the sale of refrigerator 1. In this embodiment, by setting a small value (strict value) as the standard value of the predetermined threshold number of times, protection by protection function unit 101 can be performed at an early stage when a failure or a sign of a failure occurs in refrigerator 1, and when the load on compressor 17 becomes large when the refrigerator is started for the first time after the sale, the predetermined threshold number of times is increased, thereby preventing compressor 17 from being unable to start.

[0115] In this embodiment, the predetermined threshold change condition is a specific season. In this embodiment, by changing the threshold number of times according to the season, such as hot summer, cold winter, etc., the number of restarts of the compressor 17 can be set to a value appropriate for the state of the refrigerant.

[0116] According to at least one embodiment described above, the control unit includes a protection function unit that limits the start of the compressor when the number of consecutive failures in the start-up operation reaches a predetermined threshold number, and a threshold change unit that changes the predetermined threshold number when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied. With this configuration, the compressor can be appropriately controlled.

[0117] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] REFRIGERATION SYSTEM FOR CARRYING OUT THE APPLICATION 1...REFRIGERATOR, 10...CASING, 17...COMPRESSORS, 27...STORAGE ROOM, 41...FIRST COOLER, 46...SECOND COOLER, 100...CONTROL UNIT, 101...PROTECTION FUNCTION UNIT, 102...THRESHOLD CHANGE UNIT, 121...OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR, 122...OUTSIDE AIR HUMIDITY SENSOR, 123...INPUT VOLTAGE SENSOR, 124...COMMUNICATION UNIT, 150...OPERATION PANEL UNIT

Claims

1. a housing including a storage chamber; A cooler provided in the housing; and a compressor for supplying a refrigerant to the cooler; a control unit that performs a start-up operation of starting the compressor when starting the compressor, and performs the start-up operation again if the start-up operation fails; Equipped with The control unit is a protection function unit that limits the start of the compressor when the number of consecutive failures of the start-up operation reaches a predetermined threshold number; a threshold changing unit that changes the predetermined threshold number of times when a predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied; having refrigerator.

2. The threshold change unit reduces the predetermined threshold number of times when the predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

3. The refrigerator further includes a sensor for detecting an environmental condition in which the refrigerator is installed. the predetermined threshold change condition being that an index value obtained based on a detection result of the sensor satisfies a predetermined environmental condition for a predetermined period of time; 3. The refrigerator according to claim 2.

4. Further comprising a sensor for detecting a state of the input power, the predetermined threshold change condition being that an index value obtained based on a detection result of the sensor deviates from a predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period of time; 3. The refrigerator according to claim 2.

5. Further comprising a communication unit capable of communicating with the outside, The predetermined threshold change condition is that predetermined disaster occurrence information is received by the communication unit.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2.

6. the threshold changing unit decreases the predetermined threshold number of times when the disaster occurrence information is received, and thereafter, increases the predetermined threshold number of times when a state of the refrigerator satisfies a predetermined normal condition for a predetermined period of time. The refrigerator according to claim 5.

7. When the disaster occurrence information is received, the control unit stops the compressor, and then determines whether a state of the refrigerator satisfies a predetermined normal condition, and when it is determined that the state of the refrigerator satisfies the normal condition, allows the operation of the compressor to be resumed. The refrigerator according to claim 5 or 6.

8. When the disaster occurrence information is received, the control unit stops a predetermined part other than the compressor, thereafter determines whether a state of the refrigerator satisfies a predetermined normal condition, and when it is determined that the state of the refrigerator satisfies the normal condition, allows restart of operation of the predetermined part. The refrigerator according to claim 5 or 6.

9. The predetermined threshold change condition is a case where a frequency of failures of the startup operation exceeds a predetermined standard.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2.

10. The predetermined threshold value change condition is that the refrigerator is not used for a predetermined period of time or more after being used once.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2.

11. the threshold change unit increases the predetermined threshold number of times when the predetermined threshold change condition is satisfied; 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

12. The predetermined threshold change condition is a case where the start-up operation is performed within a predetermined time from the end of defrosting of the cooler. The refrigerator according to claim 11.

13. The predetermined threshold value change condition is a first start-up of the compressor after sale of the refrigerator. The refrigerator according to claim 11.

14. The predetermined threshold change condition is a specific season. The refrigerator according to claim 11.

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