Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a refrigerator capable of achieving more appropriate cooling control.SOLUTION: A refrigerator includes a first storage chamber, a second storage chamber, a cooling unit, and a control unit. The cooling unit can cool the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber. The control unit can selectively perform a first operation and a second operation for controlling the cooling unit so as to suppress power consumption as compared with the first operation. When performing the second operation, the control unit can selectively apply a first temperature setting and a second temperature setting. When the first temperature setting is applied, a target temperature for the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber is higher than when the first operation is performed. When the second temperature setting is applied, the target temperature for the first storage chamber is higher than when the first temperature setting is applied, and the target temperature for the second storage chamber is lower than when the first temperature setting is applied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] There is known a refrigerator that corrects the maximum rotation speed of the compressor during the daytime in summer when the outside temperature is high to the maximum rotation speed that the motor can achieve, and conversely, corrects the maximum rotation speed of the compressor during the late night hours in winter to 75% of the maximum rotation speed of the motor. Meanwhile, more appropriate cooling control is expected from refrigerators. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-66374 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that can achieve more appropriate cooling control. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A refrigerator according to an embodiment includes a first storage compartment, a second storage compartment, a cooling unit, and a control unit. The cooling unit is capable of cooling the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment. The control unit is capable of selectively executing a first operation and a second operation that controls the cooling unit to reduce power consumption compared to the first operation. When executing the second operation, the control unit is capable of selectively applying a first temperature setting and a second temperature setting. When the first temperature setting is applied, the target temperatures of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are higher than when the first operation is executed. When the second temperature setting is applied, the target temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than when the first temperature setting is applied, and the target temperature of the second storage compartment is lower than when the first temperature setting is applied. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a refrigerator system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an operation plan according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a set temperature according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing a control flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of set temperatures in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, refrigerators according to embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be assigned the same reference numerals. Duplicate descriptions of those components may be omitted. In this application, "based on XX" means "based on at least XX" and may include a case where the component is based on another element in addition to XX. Furthermore, "based on XX" is not limited to the case where XX is directly used, but may also include a case where XX is 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 elements (for example, any information).

[0008] In this application, "acquire" is not limited to actively acquiring information by sending a transmission request, but may also include passively receiving information transmitted from another device. Also, in this application, "acquire" is not limited to acquiring information from the outside, but may also include acquiring information from within refrigerator 100. In this application, "suppress" means at least partially suppressing, and may include suppressing, for example, only at a predetermined time or within a predetermined temperature range.

[0009] (First embodiment) <1. Overall configuration of the refrigerator system> Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a refrigerator system 1 according to an embodiment. The refrigerator system 1 includes, for example, a refrigerator 100, a server 200, and a home appliance management application AP of a terminal device 300. The network NW, which will be described later, may be, for example, the Internet, a cellular network, a Wi-Fi network, a low power wide area network (LPWA), a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), or other public or dedicated lines, depending on the situation.

[0010] The refrigerator 100 is installed in the residence of a user U. The refrigerator 100 is connected to a network NW via, for example, a wireless router WR and a modem M installed in the residence of the user U. The refrigerator 100 can communicate with a server 200 or a terminal device 300 via the network NW. The refrigerator 100 may also be able to communicate directly with the terminal device 300 using short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0011] Server 200 is a management server that manages refrigerator 100. Server 200 is configured with one or more server devices (for example, cloud servers). Server 200 can communicate with refrigerator 100 or terminal device 300 via network NW. Server 200 may include an information processing unit that performs edge computing or fog computing, such as an information processing unit included in a router in network NW. Server 200 is not limited to a cloud server and may be a computer in the residence of user U, a home router, or the like.

[0012] The terminal device 300 is a terminal device used by a user U of the refrigerator 100. The terminal device 300 is, for example, a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal device. However, the terminal device 300 is not limited to a mobile terminal device, and may be a personal computer or a voice interaction device such as a smart speaker.

[0013] The terminal device 300 includes, for example, a display device 301, an input device 302, and a communication unit 303. The display device 301 is a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and has a display screen 301a that can display various information. The input device 302 can accept input from the user U. The input device 302 is, for example, a touch panel that is provided on top of the display screen 301a. The input device 302 may include a camera, a microphone, and the like that are provided in the terminal device 300. The communication unit 303 is, for example, a communication module capable of wireless communication. The communication unit 303 is connected to the network NW directly or via a wireless router WR and a modem M. The communication unit 303 can communicate with the refrigerator 100 or the server 200 via the network NW. The communication unit 303 may also be capable of directly communicating with the refrigerator 100 using short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0014] An application program P is installed in the terminal device 300, and the terminal device 300 supports the functions described below. The application program P is, for example, an application program for managing the refrigerator 100. Hereinafter, the application software that is started by executing the application program P is referred to as a "home appliance management application AP."

[0015] <2. Refrigerator> First, the refrigerator 100 will be described. 2 is a front view showing the refrigerator 100. The refrigerator 100 includes, for example, a housing 10 and a plurality of doors 11.

[0016] The housing 10 has thermal insulation properties and is formed in the shape of a rectangular box. The housing 10 has, for example, an upper wall 21, a lower wall 22, left and right side walls 23 and 24, and a rear wall 25 (see FIG. 3). The upper wall 21 and the lower wall 22 extend substantially horizontally. The left and right side walls 23 and 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.

[0017] A plurality of storage compartments 27 are provided inside housing 10. The plurality of storage compartments 27 include, for example, refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B, ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E. Refrigerator compartment 27A is a storage compartment in the refrigerator compartment temperature range (for example, an average temperature of approximately 1°C to 5°C). Vegetable compartment 27B is a storage compartment in the vegetable compartment temperature range (for example, an average temperature of approximately 3°C to 7°C). Ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E are storage compartments in the freezer temperature range (for example, an average temperature range of -10 to -20°C). From one perspective, vegetable compartment 27B is an example of a "first storage compartment," refrigerator compartment 27A is an example of a "second storage compartment," and main freezer compartment 27E is an example of a "third storage compartment." From another perspective, refrigerator compartment 27A is an example of a "first storage compartment," vegetable compartment 27B is an example of a "second storage compartment," and main freezer compartment 27E is an example of a "third storage compartment."

[0018] Each of the above-mentioned refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B, ice maker compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E is an example of a “storage compartment.” Note that the “storage compartment” referred to in this application is not limited to the above examples, and may be a temperature-switchable compartment that can switch between multiple temperature zones (for example, a refrigeration temperature zone and a freezer temperature zone).

[0019] In this embodiment, refrigerator compartment 27A is located at the top, vegetable compartment 27B is located below refrigerator compartment 27A, ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D are located below vegetable compartment 27B, and main freezer compartment 27E is located below ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D. However, the arrangement of storage compartments 27 is not limited to the above example, and for example, the arrangement of vegetable compartment 27B and main freezer compartment 27E may be reversed. 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.

[0020] The openings of the plurality of storage compartments 27 are openably and closably closed by a plurality of doors 11. The plurality of doors 11 include 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 compartment door 11C that closes the opening of ice 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.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing refrigerator 100. Housing 10 has, for example, inner box 51, outer box 52, and insulation part 53. Inner box 51 is a member that forms the inner surface of housing 10. Outer box 52 is a member that forms the outer surface of housing 10. Outer box 52 is formed to be slightly larger than inner box 51 and is disposed outside inner box 51. Insulation part 53 is provided between inner box 51 and outer box 52. Insulation part 53 is, for example, a foam insulation material such as urethane foam. Insulation part 53 may include a vacuum insulation material.

[0022] Housing 10 has first and second dividers 28, 29. First and second dividers 28, 29 are, for example, divider walls that extend substantially horizontally. First divider 28 is located between refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B, separating refrigerator compartment 27A from vegetable compartment 27B. Meanwhile, second divider 29 is located between vegetable compartment 27B and ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D, separating vegetable compartment 27B from ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D. Second divider 29 is thermally insulating.

[0023] Refrigerator air passage component 31 is provided within housing 10 and extends vertically along rear wall 25. Refrigerator air passage component 31 forms air passage D1, a passage through which cool air flows, near rear wall 25 of housing 10. Refrigerator air passage component 31 has cool air outlet 31a and cool air return ports 31c and 31d. Cool air outlet 31a opens into refrigerator compartment 27A and supplies cool air cooled by first cooler 41 (described below) to refrigerator compartment 27A. Cool air return port 27c opens into refrigerator compartment 27A and guides cool air that has been warmed by passing through refrigerator compartment 27A toward air passage D1. Cool air return port 31d opens into vegetable compartment 27B and guides cool air that has been warmed by passing through refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B toward air passage D1.

[0024] Freezer air passage component 32 is provided within housing 10 and extends vertically along rear wall 25. Freezer air passage component 32 forms air passage D2, a passage through which cool air flows, near rear wall 25 of housing 10. Freezer air passage component 32 has cool air outlet 32a and cool air return port 32b. Cool air outlet 32a supplies cool air cooled by second cooler 46 (described below) to ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E. Cool air return port 32b opens to the bottom of main freezer compartment 27E and guides cool air that has been warmed by passing through one or more of ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E to air passage D2.

[0025] First cooler 41 is disposed in first air passage D1. First cooler 41 is disposed, for example, at a height corresponding to the lower end of refrigerator compartment 27A. First cooler 41 is supplied with refrigerant compressed by compressor 17 and cools the cold air flowing through first air passage D1.

[0026] First blower 43 is disposed in first air passage D1. When first blower 43 is driven, air from refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B flows into first air passage D1. The air that flows into first air passage D1 flows upward through first air passage D1 and is cooled by first cooler 41. The cooled air cooled by first cooler 41 is blown out into refrigerator compartment 27A. The cooled air blown out into refrigerator compartment 27A flows through refrigerator compartment 27A and then returns via vegetable compartment 27B, for example. As a result, the cooled air flowing through refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B is circulated within refrigerator 100, cooling refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B.

[0027] In this embodiment, a damper 44 is provided as a cold air adjustment component that adjusts the flow of cold air. The damper 44 is provided, for example, in the cold air return port 27c and is capable of opening and closing the cold air return port 27c. The damper 44 adjusts the amount of cold air passing through the cold air return port 27c, thereby enabling the set temperatures (target temperatures) of the refrigerator compartment 27A and the vegetable compartment 27B to be set separately. For example, when the damper 44 is opened, a portion of the air that has passed through the refrigerator compartment 27A returns to the first air duct D1 without passing through the vegetable compartment 27B. This makes it more difficult to cool the vegetable compartment 27B than when the damper 44 is closed. On the other hand, when the damper 44 is closed, the air that has passed through the refrigerator compartment 27A returns to the first air duct D1 via the vegetable compartment 27B. This makes it easier to cool the vegetable compartment 27B than when the damper 44 is open. The cold air adjustment component is not limited to the damper 44. Other examples of the cold air adjustment component will be described later.

[0028] The second cooler 46 is disposed in the second air passage D2. The second cooler 46 is supplied with the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 17, and cools the cool air flowing through the second air passage D2.

[0029] Second blower 48 is disposed in second air duct D2. When second blower 48 is driven, air from main freezer compartment 27E flows into second air duct D2 and is cooled by second cooler 46. The cooled air cooled by second cooler 46 flows into ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E. The cooled air that flows into ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D flows through ice making compartment 27C and small freezer compartment 27D, and then returns via main freezer compartment 27E. As a result, the cooled air flowing through ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E is circulated within refrigerator 100, cooling ice making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E.

[0030] Compressor 17 is provided, for example, in a machine room at the bottom of refrigerator 100. Compressor 17 compresses the refrigerant used to cool storage compartment 27. The refrigerant compressed by compressor 17 is sent to first cooler 41 and second cooler 46 via a condenser (not shown) or the like.

[0031] The control panel 19 is provided, for example, on the upper wall 21 of the housing 10. The control panel 19 has a control device 160 (see FIG. 4) disposed therein.

[0032] 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the refrigerator 100. The refrigerator 100 includes, for example, a door-open detection sensor 110, a temperature sensor 120, a cooling unit 130, an operation unit 140, a communication unit 150, a control device 160, and a storage unit 190.

[0033] <2.1 Door open detection sensor> Door open detection sensor 110 is a sensor that detects the open state of door 11. Door open detection sensor 110 includes, for example, refrigerator compartment door sensor 111 that detects the open state of refrigerator compartment door 11, vegetable compartment door sensor 112 that detects the open state of vegetable compartment door 11B, ice compartment door sensor 113 that detects the open state of ice compartment door 11C, small freezer compartment door sensor 114 that detects the open state of small freezer compartment door 11D, and main freezer compartment door sensor 115 that detects the open state of main freezer compartment door 11E. The detection results of door open detection sensor 110 are output to control device 160.

[0034] 2.2 Temperature sensor Temperature sensor 120 is a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of storage compartment 27 (for example, the air temperature inside storage compartment 27). Temperature sensor 120 includes, for example, refrigerator compartment temperature sensor 121 that detects the temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A (refrigerator compartment temperature), vegetable compartment temperature sensor 122 that detects the temperature of vegetable compartment 27B (vegetable compartment temperature), and main freezer compartment temperature sensor 123 that detects the temperature of main freezer compartment 27E (freezer compartment temperature). The detection result of temperature sensor 120 is output to control device 160.

[0035] <2.3 Cooling section> The cooling unit 130 is a device that cools the multiple storage chambers 27. The cooling unit 130 includes, for example, a first cooler 41, a second cooler 46, a compressor 17, a three-way valve 134, a first blower 43, and a second blower 48.

[0036] First cooler 41 is arranged corresponding to the storage compartments in the refrigeration temperature range (refrigeration compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B). Second cooler 46 is arranged corresponding to the storage compartments in the freezing temperature range (ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E). Compressor 17 supplies refrigerant to first cooler 41 and second cooler 46.

[0037] Three-way valve 134 is switched between a first state in which refrigerant compressed by compressor 17 is supplied to first cooler 41, and a second state in which refrigerant compressed by compressor 17 is supplied to second cooler 46. First blower 43 supplies cold air cooled by first cooler 41 to storage compartments in the refrigeration temperature range (refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B). Second blower 48 supplies cold air cooled by second cooler 46 to storage compartments in the freezing temperature range (ice-making compartment 27C, small freezer compartment 27D, and main freezer compartment 27E).

[0038] <2.4 Control section> The operation unit 140 is an operation unit that can accept operations by the user U on the refrigerator 100. The operation unit 140 includes, for example, one or more buttons provided on the surface of the door 11 or on the inner surface of the housing 10.

[0039] <2.5 Communications Department> The communication unit 150 is, for example, a wireless communication module. The communication unit 150 is capable of communicating with the server 200 via, for example, a wireless router WR and a modem M installed in the user U's residence.

[0040] 2.6 Control Device Control device 160 comprehensively controls the entire refrigerator 100. Control device 160 has information acquisition unit 161, reception unit 162, control unit 163, status management unit 164, and transmission unit 165. These functional units are realized by one or more hardware processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) mounted on refrigerator 100 executing programs. However, some or all of these functional units may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or may be realized by a combination of software and hardware.

[0041] The information acquisition unit 161 acquires a control command related to the cooling control of the refrigerator 100 from the server 200. In this embodiment, when the learning control mode is set, the information acquisition unit 161 acquires from the server 200 a control command related to the cooling control of the refrigerator 100 that is generated by the server 200.

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information acquisition unit 161 acquires date information from the server 200 or another server. The date information is, for example, information including the year, month, and day. The date information is an example of "information related to a date or a season." The "information related to a date or a season" may be, for example, information that enables determination of the seasonal classification, such as summer, winter, or other seasons. The "information related to a date or a season" may, for example, not include year information but include only month information. The "information related to a date or a season" may, for example, include only information indicating whether it is spring, summer, winter, or autumn. Note that the above-mentioned date information may be acquired from a clock built into the refrigerator 100 instead of being acquired from a source outside the refrigerator 100.

[0043] The receiving unit 162 can receive instructions from the user U to the operation unit 140 or the terminal device 300 .

[0044] The control unit 163 controls the cooling unit 130, thereby cooling each storage compartment 27. For example, the control unit 163 controls the cooling unit 130 based on the set temperature (target temperature) of each storage compartment 27 and the detection result of the temperature sensor 120. For example, the control unit 163 controls the compressor 17, the first fan 43, the damper 44, and the second fan 48 included in the cooling unit 130 by feedback control such as PID (Proportional-Integral-Differential) control based on the difference between the set temperature (target temperature) of each storage compartment 27 and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 120. The "set temperature" or "target temperature" referred to in the present application refers to, for example, the median temperature of a set temperature range set for each storage compartment 27. Alternatively, the "set temperature" or "target temperature" may be the lower limit temperature of the set temperature range set for each storage compartment 27, or another reference temperature used for temperature control of each storage compartment 27.

[0045] In this embodiment, when a learning control mode, which will be described later, is set, the control unit 163 controls the cooling unit 130 based on a control command (a control command from the server 200) acquired by the information acquisition unit 161. For example, the control unit 163 executes an operation mode (for example, a normal operation, an eco operation, or a pre-cooling operation, which will be described later) instructed by the control command.

[0046] The status management unit 164 stores information indicating the status of the refrigerator 100 (hereinafter referred to as "status information") in the storage unit 190. The status information includes, for example, learning status information 191 used by the server 200 to generate a control command for the refrigerator 100, and execution result information 192 indicating the execution result of the operation of the refrigerator 100.

[0047] The learning state information 191 includes door open / close information 191a indicating the detection result of the door open detection sensor 110, and temperature information 191b indicating the detection result of the temperature sensor 120. The door open / close information 191a includes information regarding the door opening and closing for each predetermined unit time (e.g., one hour). For example, the door open / close information 191a includes information indicating the number of times the door is opened and closed for each predetermined unit time, or the door open time. The "door open time" is the total time that the door 11 is in an open state. The temperature information 191b includes information regarding the temperature of the storage compartment 27 for each predetermined unit time (e.g., one hour). For example, the temperature information 191b includes information indicating the average value of the deviation of the temperature sensor 120 from the set temperature (target temperature) of the storage compartment 27.

[0048] The execution result information 192 is information indicating the type of operation mode actually executed by the refrigerator 100 during the time period in which the operation mode was instructed by the control command from the server 200. The execution result information 192 is information indicating the type of operation mode actually executed by the refrigerator 100 for each predetermined unit time.

[0049] The transmitting unit 165 communicates with the server 200 via the communication unit 150, and transmits the learning state information 191 and the execution result information 192 to the server 200. For example, the transmitting unit 165 transmits the learning state information 191 and the execution result information 192 to the server 200 at a predetermined interval.

[0050] <2.7 Storage section> The storage unit 190 is a functional unit that stores various types of information. The storage unit 190 is realized by a combination of RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The storage unit 190 stores learning state information 191 and execution result information 192.

[0051] <3. Server> Next, the server 200 will be described in detail. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 200. The server 200 includes, for example, an information acquisition unit 210, an operation plan generation unit 220, a control command transmission unit 230, a display information transmission unit 240, and a storage unit 290.

[0052] The information acquisition unit 210, the operation plan generation unit 220, the control command transmission unit 230, and the display information transmission unit 240 are realized by one or more hardware processors, such as a CPU, mounted on the server 200 executing programs. However, some or all of these functional units may be realized by hardware, such as an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA, or may be realized by a combination of software and hardware. These functional units may be provided separately in multiple server devices. Furthermore, one or more of these functional units may be provided in the refrigerator 100 or the terminal device 300 instead of the server 200.

[0053] <3.1 Information acquisition section> Information acquiring unit 210 acquires learning status information 191 and execution result information 192 transmitted from refrigerator 100. Information acquiring unit 210 accumulates acquired learning status information 191 as part of learning accumulated information 291, and accumulates acquired execution result information 192 as part of execution result accumulated information 292.

[0054] 3.2 Operation plan generation unit The operation plan generating unit 220 analyzes the lifestyle pattern of the user U (the usage pattern of the refrigerator 100) based on the usage state of the refrigerator 100 for a predetermined period (for example, the past two weeks) obtained based on the accumulated information for learning 291, and generates an operation plan for the refrigerator 100 according to the lifestyle pattern of the user U. In other words, the operation plan generating unit 220 is a learning function unit that learns the lifestyle pattern of the user U. In this application, "learning" is not limited to machine learning using a neural network or the like, but broadly means updating past decisions based on new information.

[0055] In this embodiment, the operation plan generating unit 220 generates an operation plan for the next operation day of the week based on the learning status information 191 for the same day of the week for the past two weeks, which is included in the learning accumulated information 291. For example, the operation plan generating unit 220 generates an operation plan for the next Monday based on the learning status information 191 for the previous and previous Mondays. The same applies to Tuesdays to Sundays.

[0056] In this embodiment, the operation plan for refrigerator 100 is a plan that defines a time period during which refrigerator 100 performs normal operation and a time period during which refrigerator 100 performs special operation. Normal operation is the same as the operation performed by refrigerator 100 when, for example, there is no control command from server 200 (when learning control mode is not set). On the other hand, special operation is an operation for reducing the power consumption of refrigerator 100. In this embodiment, special operation includes eco operation and pre-cooling operation.

[0057] (Normal operation) Normal operation is a basic operation of the refrigerator 100. For example, normal operation is an operation that is set when learning is not performed by the operation plan generating unit 220. For example, normal operation is an operation that assumes that the refrigerator 100 will be used by the user U (for example, the door 11 will be opened and closed). Normal operation is an operation in which a relatively low set temperature (target temperature) is set so that the temperature of the storage compartment 27 can be kept below a certain level even when the door 11 is opened and closed. Normal operation is an example of a "first operation."

[0058] (Eco-driving) Eco operation is an operation that controls cooling unit 130 to reduce power consumption compared to normal operation. For example, eco operation is an operation that reduces power consumption of refrigerator 100 by raising the set temperature (target temperature) of storage compartment 27 compared to normal operation during a time period when door 11 is expected to be opened and closed less frequently, thereby suppressing operation of cooling unit 130. Eco operation is an example of a "second operation." Eco operation may also be referred to as "energy-saving operation" or "power-saving operation." In this embodiment, "eco operation (standard)," "eco operation (summer)," and "eco operation (winter)" can be selectively applied as eco operation. This will be described later.

[0059] (Pre-cooling operation) The pre-cooling operation is an operation in which, when a large temperature rise (temperature rise exceeding a threshold) is predicted in storage compartment 27, the temperature of storage compartment 27 is lowered in advance (so-called cooling) to cut the peak of the temperature rise in storage compartment 27, suppress a decrease in cooling efficiency (COP: Coefficient of Performance), and reduce power consumption of refrigerator 100. For convenience of explanation, the temperature rise in storage compartment 27 that is the target of the pre-cooling operation will be referred to as a "temperature rise exceeding a threshold" below. For example, in the pre-cooling operation, for a predetermined unit time during which a temperature rise exceeding the threshold is predicted to occur in a specific storage compartment 27, the set temperature (target temperature) of the specific storage compartment 27 is set lower than that in normal operation for the predetermined unit time and the predetermined unit time immediately before that, thereby lowering the temperature of the specific storage compartment 27 in advance. Pre-cooling operation increases the operation (e.g., operating frequency or operating time) of compressor 17, the operation (rotational speed or operating time) of first fan 43, or the operation (rotational speed or operating time) of second fan 48 by lowering the set temperature of storage chamber 27 compared to normal operation.

[0060] <3.3 Control command transmitter> The control command transmitting unit 230 transmits a control command according to the operation plan generated by the operation plan generating unit 220 to the refrigerator 100. For example, the control command transmitting unit 230 transmits a control command for the next predetermined unit time to the refrigerator 100 every predetermined unit time (for example, every hour). In this embodiment, the control command includes any one of an instruction to perform normal operation, an instruction to perform eco operation, or an instruction to perform pre-cooling operation.

[0061] <3.4 Display information transmission unit> The display information transmitting unit 240 generates information to be displayed on the display screen 301a of the terminal device 300 (hereinafter referred to as "display information"), and transmits the generated display information to the terminal device 300. The display information includes information indicating the execution result of the operation of the refrigerator 100, which is generated based on the execution result information 192.

[0062] <3.5 Storage section> The storage unit 290 is realized by a combination of RAM, ROM, EEPROM, SSD, etc. The storage unit 290 stores learning accumulation information 291 and execution result accumulation information 292.

[0063] <4. Operation plan> Next, a description will be given of an operation plan generated by the operation plan generating unit 220 of the server 200. In this embodiment, the operation plan generating unit 220 analyzes the lifestyle pattern of the user U and generates an operation plan for the refrigerator 100.

[0064] 4.1 Generation of operation plan In this embodiment, if the number of times the door 11 is opened and closed in a predetermined unit time (for example, one hour) during the same time period on the same day of the week in the past two weeks is less than a predetermined number (for example, five times or less), the operation plan generating unit 220 performs eco-driving during the same time period on the next day of the week. On the other hand, if there is a day during the same time period on the same day of the week in the past two weeks when the number of times the door 11 is opened and closed in the predetermined unit time exceeds the predetermined number, the operation plan generating unit 220 does not perform eco-driving during the same time period on the next day of the week, but performs normal driving.

[0065] The number of times door 11 is opened and closed is, for example, the total number of times all doors 11 (refrigerator door 11A, vegetable door 11B, ice maker door 11C, small freezer door 11D, and main freezer door 11E) included in refrigerator 100 are opened and closed. Alternatively, the number of times door 11 is opened and closed may be the total number of times a representative specific door (for example, refrigerator door 11A, vegetable door 11B, and main freezer door 11E) is opened and closed.

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if a temperature rise exceeding the threshold is detected in storage compartment 27 during the same time period on the same day of the week in the past two weeks, operation plan generating unit 220 executes pre-cooling operation during the same time period on the next same day of the week and the time period immediately before that. On the other hand, if there is a day during the same time period on the same day of the week in the past two weeks on which a temperature rise exceeding the threshold is not detected in storage compartment 27, operation plan generating unit 220 does not execute pre-cooling operation on the next same day of the week, and executes normal operation or eco operation.

[0067] In this embodiment, the operation plan of the refrigerator 100 is a plan that specifies whether to perform normal operation, eco operation, or pre-cooling operation for each predetermined unit time (for example, every hour). Note that, when a schedule for performing eco operation and a schedule for performing pre-cooling operation overlap in the same time period, the operation plan generating unit 220 sets the pre-cooling operation with priority.

[0068] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an operation plan created by the operation plan generating unit 220. The example shown in Fig. 6 shows a case where an operation plan for the next Monday is generated based on the learning state information 191 for the previous and previous Mondays.

[0069] In the example shown in FIG. 6 , (A) the time slots from midnight to 6 a.m. are assigned as the eco-driving time slots for the operation plan for the next Monday because the number of door openings on the previous and two previous Mondays was less than the predetermined number and no temperature rise exceeding the predetermined threshold was detected. (B) The time slots from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. are assigned as the pre-cooling time slots for the operation plan for the next Monday because a temperature rise exceeding the predetermined threshold was detected between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. on the previous and two previous Mondays. (C) The time slots from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. are assigned as the normal operation time slot for the operation plan for the next Monday because no temperature rise exceeding the predetermined threshold was detected on the previous and two previous Mondays, but there was a day when the number of door openings was greater than the predetermined number. (D) The time slots from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. are assigned as the eco-driving time slot for the operation plan for the next Monday because the number of door openings on the previous and two previous Mondays was less than the predetermined number and no temperature rise exceeding the predetermined threshold was detected.

[0070] <4.2 Seasonal eco-driving> Next, eco-driving according to the season will be described. In this embodiment, "eco-driving (standard)", "eco-driving (summer)", and "eco-driving (winter)" can be selectively applied as eco-driving.

[0071] Eco operation (summer) is an eco operation that is applied in the summer (for example, from July to September). Eco operation (summer) is an eco operation in which the set temperature (target temperature) of vegetable compartment 27B is set higher than that of eco operation (standard) in order to protect vegetables (for example, summer vegetables) stored in vegetable compartment 27B from low-temperature damage.

[0072] Eco operation (winter) is an eco operation that is applied in winter (for example, December to February). Eco operation (winter) is an eco operation in which the set temperature (target temperature) of vegetable compartment 27B is set lower than that of eco operation (standard) in order to perform cooling control suitable for vegetables (for example, winter vegetables) stored in vegetable compartment 27B.

[0073] Eco-driving (standard) is the standard eco-driving. Eco-driving (standard) is eco-driving that applies in seasons other than summer and winter (for example, March to June and October to November). Eco-driving (standard) is eco-driving that applies when eco-driving (summer) and eco-driving (winter) do not apply.

[0074] In summer, vegetables stored as ingredients in vegetable compartment 27B are mainly so-called summer vegetables, such as cucumbers, eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Summer vegetables suffer from low-temperature disturbance when stored at low temperatures (for example, below 7°C). In contrast, in winter, winter vegetables stored as ingredients in vegetable compartment 27B are mainly leafy vegetables, such as Chinese cabbage, spinach, green onions, and turnips. These leafy vegetables can be kept fresh for a long time by storing them at low temperatures. For this reason, in this embodiment, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B during eco operation is set differently in summer, winter, and other seasons.

[0075] Fig. 7 shows an example of the set temperatures (target temperatures) for each eco-driving mode. Note that the specific values ​​of these set temperatures (target temperatures) do not limit the scope of this embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 8, during normal operation, the set temperature for refrigerator compartment 27A is 3°C, the set temperature for vegetable compartment 27B is 6°C, and the set temperatures for freezer compartments 27D and 27E are -20°C.

[0076] When eco operation (standard) is applied, for example, the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is 4°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B is 7°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D, 27E are -18°C. In other words, when eco operation (standard) is applied, the set temperatures (target temperatures) of all storage compartments 27 (for example, refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B, freezer compartments 27D, 27E) are higher than when normal operation is performed. This reduces power consumption. Eco operation (standard) is an example of a "first temperature setting" that is applied when "second operation" is performed.

[0077] When eco operation (summer) is applied, for example, the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is 3°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B is 8°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D and 27E are -18°C. In other words, when eco operation (summer) is applied, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B is higher and the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is lower than when eco operation (standard) is applied. By setting the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B higher than when eco operation (standard) is applied, low-temperature damage is less likely to occur even when summer vegetables are stored in vegetable compartment 27B. Furthermore, by setting the temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A lower than when eco operation (standard) is applied, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of food ingredients stored in refrigerator compartment 27A in the summer.

[0078] Here, by setting the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B higher than when eco operation (standard) is applied, power consumption is reduced compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied, and therefore the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A can be lowered compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied. Therefore, in eco operation (summer), by raising the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B and lowering the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A, cooling control suitable for summer can be performed while suppressing an increase in total power consumption compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied.

[0079] Eco operation (summer) is an example of a "second temperature setting" that is applied when "second operation" is performed. In this case, vegetable compartment 27B corresponds to an example of a "first storage compartment," and refrigerator compartment 27A corresponds to an example of a "second storage compartment."

[0080] When eco operation (winter) is applied, for example, the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is 5°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B is 4°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D and 27E are -18°C. That is, when eco operation (winter) is applied, the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is higher and the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B is lower than when eco operation (standard) is applied. By lowering the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied, winter vegetables stored in vegetable compartment 27B can be stored in a fresh state for a longer period of time. Furthermore, by raising the temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied, it is possible to reduce power consumption while suppressing the temperature rise of food ingredients stored in refrigerator compartment 27A in winter.

[0081] Here, since the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A is higher than when eco operation (standard) is applied, power consumption is reduced compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied, and therefore the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B can be lowered compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied. Therefore, in eco operation (winter), by lowering the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B and raising the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A, it is possible to perform cooling control suitable for winter while suppressing an increase in total power consumption compared to when eco operation (standard) is applied.

[0082] Eco operation (winter) is another example of a "second temperature setting" that is applied when "second operation" is performed. In this case, refrigerator compartment 27A corresponds to an example of a "first storage compartment," and vegetable compartment 27B corresponds to an example of a "second storage compartment." From another perspective, eco operation (winter) may be referred to as an example of a "third temperature setting."

[0083] 4.3 Seasonal eco-driving control In this embodiment, when the control unit 163 of the refrigerator 100 receives a control command to perform eco-driving from the server 200, it determines whether it is summer, winter, or other season based on the date information. Based on the result of the season determination, the control unit 163 selects the eco-driving to be applied from eco-driving (summer), eco-driving (winter), and eco-driving (standard), and operates the refrigerator 100 based on the set temperature (target temperature) for the selected eco-driving.

[0084] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing of the control unit 163 during the implementation period of eco-driving. 8, in a normal state (a state in which the learning control mode is not set), refrigerator 100 is set to the set temperatures for normal operation (step S1). In normal operation, control unit 163 operates refrigerator 100 by setting the set temperatures of refrigerator compartment 27A to 3°C, vegetable compartment 27B to 6°C, and freezer compartments 27D and 27E to -20°C in accordance with the settings for normal operation shown in FIG.

[0085] Before the time allocated as the implementation period of eco-driving, the server 200 transmits a control command to the refrigerator 100 to execute eco-driving. When the control unit 163 of the refrigerator 100 receives the control command to execute eco-driving (step S2), it determines whether the current date (today) is in the summer period, for example, based on the date information (step S3). The summer period is, for example, the period from June to September.

[0086] When the control unit 163 determines that the current date is in summer (step S3: YES), it sets the set temperature of each storage compartment 27 to the set temperature for eco operation (summer) (step S4). For example, the control unit 163 sets the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A to 3°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B to 8°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D and 27E to -18°C in accordance with the settings shown in Fig. 7.

[0087] If the current date is not in the summer season (step S3: NO), the control unit 163 determines whether the current date is in the winter season (step S5). The winter season is, for example, from December to March.

[0088] When the control unit 163 determines that the current date is in the winter period (step S5: YES), it sets the temperature of each storage compartment 27 to the set temperature for eco operation (winter) (step S6). That is, the control unit 163 sets the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A to 5°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B to 4°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D and 27E to -18°C in accordance with the set temperatures shown in Fig. 7.

[0089] If the current date is neither summer nor winter (step S5: NO), control unit 163 sets the temperature of each storage compartment 27 to the set temperature for eco-operation (standard). That is, control unit 163 sets the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A to 4°C, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B to 7°C, and the set temperatures of freezer compartments 27D and 27E to -18°C in accordance with the settings shown in Fig. 7.

[0090] <5. Advantages> This embodiment includes a first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A or vegetable compartment 27B), a second storage compartment (vegetable compartment 27B or refrigerator compartment 27A), a cooling unit 130 capable of cooling the first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A or vegetable compartment 27B) and the second storage compartment (vegetable compartment 27B or refrigerator compartment 27A), and a control unit 163 capable of selectively executing a first operation (normal operation) and a second operation (eco operation) that controls cooling unit 130 to reduce power consumption compared to the first operation. When executing the second operation (eco operation), control unit 163 can selectively apply a first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) and a second temperature setting (eco operation (summer) or eco operation (winter)). When the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) is applied, the target temperatures of the first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A or vegetable compartment 27B) and the second storage compartment (vegetable compartment 27B or refrigerator compartment 27A) are higher than when the first operation (normal operation) is performed. When the second temperature setting (eco operation (summer) or eco operation (winter)) is applied, the target temperature of the first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A or vegetable compartment 27B) is higher than when the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) is applied, and the target temperature of the second storage compartment (vegetable compartment 27B or refrigerator compartment 27A) is lower than when the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) is applied.

[0091] According to this configuration, when the second operation (eco operation) is applied, the set temperature (target temperature) of each storage compartment 27 (refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B) is set so that more appropriate cooling control can be performed for food ingredients stored in storage compartment 27 (refrigerator compartment 27A, vegetable compartment 27B). This makes it possible to store food ingredients that are preferable to have a set temperature higher than the reference set temperature and / or food ingredients that are preferable to have a set temperature lower than the reference set temperature at a more appropriate temperature. This makes it possible to provide refrigerator 100 that can achieve more appropriate cooling control.

[0092] Furthermore, according to the above configuration, when the second operation (eco operation) is applied, the target temperature of the first storage compartment (refrigerator compartment 27A or vegetable compartment 27B) is increased while the target temperature of the second storage compartment (vegetable compartment 27B or refrigerator compartment 27A) is lowered, thereby suppressing an increase in total power consumption and making it possible to more appropriately set the set temperature of storage compartment 27.

[0093] In this embodiment, control unit 163 applies a first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) and a second temperature setting (eco operation (summer)) based on date information (information related to the date or season). When date information corresponding to summer is acquired, the first storage compartment is vegetable compartment 27B, the second storage compartment is refrigerator compartment 27A, and the second temperature setting (eco operation (summer)) is applied. With this configuration, by increasing the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B in summer, it is possible to prevent low-temperature damage to summer vegetables that may be stored in vegetable compartment 27B. Furthermore, by lowering the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A in summer, it is possible to more appropriately preserve food ingredients stored in refrigerator compartment 27A.

[0094] In this embodiment, control unit 163 applies a first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) and a second temperature setting (eco operation (winter)) based on date information (information related to a date or season). When date information corresponding to winter is acquired, the first storage compartment is refrigerator compartment 27A, the second storage compartment is vegetable compartment 27B, and the second temperature setting (eco operation (winter)) is applied. With this configuration, by lowering the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B in winter, winter vegetables that may be stored in vegetable compartment 27B can be more appropriately preserved. By raising the set temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A in summer, power consumption related to refrigerator compartment 27A can be reduced.

[0095] From another perspective, in this embodiment, when the second operation (eco operation) is performed in a first period (e.g., summer), the control unit 163 sets a higher target temperature for the storage compartment 27 (e.g., vegetable compartment 27B) than when the first operation (normal operation) is performed. When the second operation (eco operation) is performed in a second period (e.g., winter) when the outside air temperature is lower than in the first period, the control unit 163 sets a higher target temperature for the storage compartment 27 (e.g., vegetable compartment 27B) than when the first operation (normal operation) is performed. ) is lowered. With this configuration, it is possible to store foodstuffs that are best served at a higher set temperature than the reference set temperature and / or foodstuffs that are best served at a lower set temperature than the reference set temperature at a more appropriate temperature. This makes it possible to provide a refrigerator 100 that can achieve more appropriate cooling control.

[0096] (Variation) Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described. 9 shows an example of the set temperatures (target temperatures) for each eco-operation in the modified example. In this modified example, refrigerator 100 includes a third storage compartment (e.g., freezer compartment 27E) that has a lower temperature range than the first storage compartment (e.g., vegetable compartment 27B) and the second storage compartment (e.g., refrigerator compartment 27A). The first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are cooled by first cooler 41. The third storage compartment is cooled by second cooler 46.

[0097] In this modification, when the first temperature setting (e.g., eco operation (standard)) is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment is higher than when the first operation (normal operation) is performed (e.g., -18°C, which is higher than -20°C). Also, when the second temperature setting (e.g., eco operation (summer) and / or eco operation (winter)) is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment is adjusted to have the same tendency as a storage compartment (e.g., refrigerator compartment 27A) other than vegetable compartment 27B, compared to when the first temperature setting (e.g., eco operation (standard)) is applied.

[0098] For example, when the second temperature setting (e.g., eco driving (summer)) is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment will be lower than when the first temperature setting (e.g., eco driving (standard)) is applied (e.g., -19°C, lower than -18°C). That is, the target temperature of the third storage compartment will be set lower in summer. On the other hand, when another second temperature setting (e.g., eco driving (winter)) is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment will be higher than when the first temperature setting (e.g., eco driving (standard)) is applied (e.g., -17°C, higher than -18°C). That is, the target temperature of the third storage compartment will be set higher in winter.

[0099] With this configuration, for example, in the summer, the set temperature of freezer compartment 27E can be lowered by using a portion of the power consumption saved by raising the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B. This makes it possible to suppress an increase in total power consumption. From another perspective, for example, in the winter, the set temperature of vegetable compartment 27B can be lowered while the set temperature of freezer compartment 27E can be raised, making it possible to suppress an increase in total power consumption. Note that the third storage compartment is not limited to freezer compartment 27E, and may be small freezer compartment 27D or ice-making compartment 27C.

[0100] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0101] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator 100 of a second embodiment. In this embodiment, a damper 50 is provided between refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B. Damper 50 is provided in an air vent that connects refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B. The flow rate of cold air flowing between refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B can be adjusted. Increasing the amount of cold air suppression by damper 50 reduces the amount of cold air flowing from refrigerator compartment 27A to vegetable compartment 27B, and the temperature of vegetable compartment 27B becomes higher than the temperature of refrigerator compartment 27A.

[0102] In this way, the temperature setting for eco operation (summer) and / or eco operation (winter) can be easily set by providing damper 50 between refrigerator compartment 27A and vegetable compartment 27B and adjusting the amount of cool air passing through damper 50. Damper 50 is an example of a cool air adjustment component.

[0103] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0104] 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator 100 according to a third embodiment. In this embodiment, refrigeration air passage component 31 has cold air outlet 31b and ventilation path 31p in addition to cold air outlet 31a and cold air return ports 31c and 31d. Cold air outlet 31b opens to vegetable compartment 27B. Ventilation path 31p guides a portion of the cold air cooled by first cooler 41 to cold air outlet 31b.

[0105] In this embodiment, as the first control, the control unit 163 rotates the first fan 43 faster than a predetermined speed to supply cold air from the cold air outlet 31b to the vegetable compartment 27B and supply a large amount of cold air from the cold air outlet 31a to the refrigerator compartment 27A. On the other hand, the control unit 163 rotates the first fan 43 slower than a predetermined speed to supply cold air from the cold air outlet 31b to the vegetable compartment 27B and reduce the amount of cold air supplied from the cold air outlet 31a to the refrigerator compartment 27A compared to the first control.

[0106] In this way, the temperature setting for eco operation (summer) and / or eco operation (winter) can be easily set by providing cool air outlet 31b that opens to vegetable compartment 27B and adjusting the drive amount of first fan 43. First fan 43 is an example of a cool air adjustment component.

[0107] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0108] 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a refrigerator 100 according to a fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 has a camera CA. The camera CA is provided in a storage compartment 27 (for example, vegetable compartment 27B) and photographs ingredients stored in the storage compartment 27 (for example, vegetable compartment 27B). The photographed result of the camera CA is transmitted to the information acquisition unit 161.

[0109] In this embodiment, the information acquisition unit 161 determines the type of food stored in the storage compartment 27 (for example, the vegetable compartment 27B) based on the image captured by the camera CA. Based on the result of the determination, the information acquisition unit 161 acquires information indicating the type of food stored in the refrigerator 100 (hereinafter referred to as "food information").

[0110] Control unit 163 applies the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) or the second temperature setting (eco operation (summer)) based on the food ingredient information. For example, in a case where the first storage compartment is vegetable compartment 27B and the second storage compartment is a storage compartment other than vegetable compartment 27B (for example, refrigerator compartment 27A), if the proportion of a predetermined type of food ingredient (for example, summer vegetables) among the food ingredients stored in the first storage compartment exceeds a predetermined standard, the second temperature setting (eco operation (summer)) is applied instead of the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)).

[0111] From another perspective, control unit 163 applies the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)) or the second temperature setting (eco operation (winter)) based on the food ingredient information. For example, in a case where the first storage compartment is vegetable compartment 27B and the second storage compartment is a storage compartment other than vegetable compartment 27B (for example, refrigerator compartment 27A), if the proportion of a predetermined type of food ingredient (for example, winter vegetables) among the food ingredients stored in the first storage compartment exceeds a predetermined standard, the second temperature setting (eco operation (winter)) is applied instead of the first temperature setting (eco operation (standard)).

[0112] This configuration allows food items that are best stored at a higher temperature than the reference temperature setting and / or food items that are best stored at a lower temperature than the reference temperature setting to be stored at a more appropriate temperature, thereby providing refrigerator 100 that can achieve more appropriate cooling control.

[0113] Note that the "ingredient information" is not limited to information obtained based on the photographing results of the camera CA. For example, if the information acquisition unit 161 can refer to an ingredient management database in which ingredients managed as inventory at the residence of the user U are registered, the information acquisition unit 161 may acquire the ingredient information based on inventory information obtained from the ingredient management database.

[0114] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0115] In this embodiment, switching to eco-driving is suppressed when the weather is in a predetermined state. For example, the control unit 163 changes the criteria for allowing a transition from the first operation mode (normal operation) to the second operation mode (eco-driving) based on information indicating the weather (hereinafter referred to as "weather information"). When weather information corresponding to fine weather is acquired, the control unit 163 allows a transition from the first operation mode (normal operation) to the second operation mode (eco-driving) if a first criterion is met. When weather information corresponding to inclement weather for which predetermined warning information is issued is acquired, the control unit 163 allows a transition from the first operation mode (normal operation) to the second operation mode (eco-driving) if a second criterion stricter than the first criterion is met.

[0116] Weather information is, for example, weather information obtained from an external server. For example, heavy rain warnings and storm advisories are examples of "predetermined advisories." "When weather information corresponding to clear weather is acquired" refers to when weather information indicating clear weather is acquired. "Predetermined advisory information" refers to various types of warnings and / or advisories. "When weather information corresponding to stormy weather for which predetermined advisory information is issued is acquired" refers to when weather information corresponding to weather for which an advisory or warning as described above is issued is acquired. Note that even if the weather is stormy, if predetermined advisory information is not issued, the same response as "when weather information corresponding to clear weather is acquired" may be taken.

[0117] The first criterion is, for example, that the number of times door 11 is opened and closed in a predetermined unit time (for example, one hour) during the same time period on the same day of the week over the past two weeks is a predetermined number or less (for example, five times or less). The second criterion is a criterion that makes it easier to suppress switching from normal driving to eco-driving compared to the first criterion. The second criterion is, for example, that the number of times door 11 is opened and closed in a predetermined unit time (for example, one hour) during the same time period on the same day of the week over the past two weeks is a predetermined number or less (for example, one time or less).

[0118] For example, when there is a typhoon, heavy rain, heavy snow, or the like, there is a high possibility of a power outage. For this reason, the operation plan generation unit 220 acquires weather information and, when there is a typhoon, heavy rain, heavy snow, or other weather advisory or warning, suppresses switching to the eco-driving function and eases switching to normal operation compared to when there is no advisory or warning. For this reason, as described above, the threshold for the number of door openings and closings per hour used to determine whether to perform eco-driving is lowered for each time period. For example, when there is no advisory or warning, the threshold for the number of door openings and closings per hour used to determine whether to perform eco-driving is set to 5 or less, and when there is an advisory or warning, the threshold for the number of door openings and closings per hour used to determine whether to perform eco-driving is set to 1 or less. In this case, when an advisory or warning is issued, if the number of door openings and closings per hour is 1 or less, the time period for eco-driving is entered. This allows the refrigerator to maintain a low temperature for a certain period of time in preparation for a power outage due to extreme weather, even if a power outage occurs.

[0119] (Other embodiments) 7 are merely examples, and the set temperatures for each operation are not limited to these. Furthermore, the set temperatures for normal operation and eco operation (eco operation (summer), eco operation (winter), eco operation (standard)) may be obtained by directly obtaining from a table in which the specific set temperatures corresponding to each operation are registered and then applied, or a difference value between the set temperatures for eco operation and normal operation may be obtained from a table in which the difference value between the set temperatures for eco operation and normal operation is registered, and the set temperature for eco operation may be calculated and applied based on the obtained difference value and the set temperature for normal operation.

[0120] In the above example, control unit 163 of refrigerator 100 determines whether it is summer, winter, or other season based on date information, and sets the set temperatures of each storage compartment 27 for eco operation (summer), eco operation (winter), and eco operation (standard), but the determination of summer, winter, or other season may be made by server 200. Then, server 200 may transmit a command to refrigerator 100 to set eco operation (summer), eco operation (winter), and eco operation (standard).

[0121] In the above example, the eco-driving set temperature is changed by acquiring the current date, but the eco-driving set temperature may also be changed by acquiring information other than the date. For example, information on the outside temperature (air temperature outside) may be acquired from an external server, and if the outside temperature is equal to or higher than a first predetermined value (for example, the maximum temperature is equal to or higher than 25°C), it may be determined that it is summer and eco-driving (summer) may be set, and if the outside temperature is less than a second predetermined value (for example, the maximum temperature is less than 10°C), it may be determined that it is winter and eco-driving (winter) may be set.

[0122] In the above example, the operation plan is created by the server 200, but the operation plan may be created inside the refrigerator 100.

[0123] According to at least one of the above-described embodiments, a refrigerator of the embodiment includes a first storage compartment, a second storage compartment, a cooling unit, and a control unit. The cooling unit is capable of cooling the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment. The control unit is capable of selectively executing a first operation and a second operation in which the cooling unit is controlled to reduce power consumption compared to the first operation. When executing the second operation, the control unit is capable of selectively applying a first temperature setting and a second temperature setting. When the first temperature setting is applied, the target temperatures of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are higher than when the first operation is executed. When the second temperature setting is applied, the target temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than when the first temperature setting is applied, and the target temperature of the second storage compartment is lower than when the first temperature setting is applied. This configuration makes it possible to provide a refrigerator that can achieve more appropriate cooling control.

[0124] Although several 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 within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1...refrigerator system, 10...casing, 11...door, 100...refrigerator, 200...server, 27...storage compartment, 27A...refrigerator compartment, 27B...vegetable compartment, 27E...main freezer compartment, 41...first cooler, 43...first blower, 46...second cooler, 48...second blower, 100...refrigerator, 160...control device, 163...control unit.

Claims

1. A first storage chamber; A second storage chamber; a cooling unit capable of cooling the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber; a control unit capable of selectively executing a first operation and a second operation that controls the cooling unit so as to reduce power consumption compared to the first operation; Equipped with When the second operation is performed, the control unit is capable of selectively applying a first temperature setting and a second temperature setting, When the first temperature setting is applied, the target temperatures of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are higher than when the first operation is performed, When the second temperature setting is applied, the target temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than when the first temperature setting is applied, and the target temperature of the second storage compartment is lower than when the first temperature setting is applied. refrigerator.

2. the control unit applies the first temperature setting or the second temperature setting based on information related to a date or a season; When the information corresponding to summer is acquired, the first storage compartment is a vegetable compartment, the second storage compartment is a storage compartment other than the vegetable compartment, and the second temperature setting is applied. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

3. the control unit applies the first temperature setting or the second temperature setting based on information related to a date or a season; When the information corresponding to winter is acquired, the first storage compartment is a storage compartment other than a vegetable compartment, the second storage compartment is the vegetable compartment, and the second temperature setting is applied. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

4. the control unit applies the first temperature setting or the second temperature setting based on information indicating the type of food material stored in the refrigerator; When the first storage compartment is a vegetable compartment and the second storage compartment is a storage compartment other than the vegetable compartment, the second temperature setting is applied when a ratio of a predetermined type of foodstuffs to the foodstuffs stored in the first storage compartment exceeds a predetermined standard. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

5. the refrigerator further includes a third storage compartment having a temperature range lower than those of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment, the first storage chamber and the second storage chamber are cooled by a first cooler; the third storage chamber is cooled by a second cooler; When the first temperature setting is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment becomes higher than when the first operation is performed, When the second temperature setting is applied, the target temperature of the third storage compartment is adjusted to have the same tendency as a storage compartment other than the vegetable compartment compared to when the first temperature setting is applied. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The control unit changes a criterion for allowing a transition from the first operation to the second operation based on information indicating weather, and When the information corresponding to fine weather is acquired, a transition from the first operation to the second operation is permitted if a first criterion is satisfied; When the information corresponding to severe weather for which predetermined warning information is issued is acquired, a transition from the first operation to the second operation is permitted if a second criterion stricter than the first criterion is satisfied. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. A storage room and a cooling unit capable of cooling the storage chamber; a control unit capable of selectively executing a first operation and a second operation that controls the cooling unit so as to reduce power consumption compared to the first operation; Equipped with The control unit When the second operation is performed in a first period, the target temperature of the storage chamber is set higher than when the first operation is performed; When the second operation is performed in a second period in which the outside air temperature is lower than that in the first period, the target temperature of the storage compartment is lowered compared to when the first operation is performed. refrigerator.

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