Refrigerator and method for controlling same

Abstract

A refrigerator according to one embodiment comprises: a storage chamber; a cold air duct disposed at the rear of the storage chamber; a fan provided in the cold air duct; a sterilizing lamp for sterilizing the air supplied to the storage chamber through the cold air duct; a contamination sensor for detecting the contamination level inside the storage chamber; a first temperature sensor for detecting a first temperature of the sterilization lamp; a second temperature sensor for detecting a second temperature of the storage chamber; and a control unit for controlling the fan and the sterilization lamp. The control unit can: determine a sterilization intensity on the basis of the contamination level detected by the contamination sensor; determine, on the basis of the determined sterilization intensity, the rotational speed of the fan and an input voltage of the sterilization lamp corresponding to the rotational speed of the fan; and adjust the input voltage of the sterilization lamp on the basis of the first temperature of the sterilization lamp or the second temperature of the storage chamber.

Description

Refrigerator and method of controlling it

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a refrigerator and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a cabinet with a storage compartment and a cooling system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for refrigerated storage of food. The storage compartment may also include a freezer compartment maintained at approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius for frozen storage of food. A door is provided on the front of the cabinet to open and close the storage compartment.

[0003] A storage room can store a variety of items (e.g., agricultural products, livestock products, and / or seafood, processed products). These items may contain bacteria and / or odors due to various causes, either before or during storage. These bacteria and / or odors may persist in the storage room. The refrigerator may include a device capable of sterilizing and / or deodorizing the storage room.

[0004] The disclosed invention provides a refrigerator and a control method thereof capable of controlling not only the rotation speed of a fan for supplying cold air but also the light irradiance of a sterilizing lamp according to the contamination level of a storage room.

[0005] The disclosed invention provides a refrigerator and a control method thereof capable of maximizing and / or increasing sterilizing performance by controlling the input voltage of a sterilizing lamp according to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the temperature of a storage room.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator includes: a storage compartment; a cold air duct disposed at the rear of the storage compartment; a fan provided in the cold air duct; a sterilizing lamp for sterilizing air supplied to the storage compartment through the cold air duct; a contamination sensor for detecting a contamination level inside the storage compartment; a first temperature sensor for detecting a first temperature of the sterilizing lamp; a second temperature sensor for detecting a second temperature of the storage compartment; and a control unit including at least one processor for controlling the fan and the sterilizing lamp. The control unit may determine a sterilizing intensity based on the contamination level detected by the contamination sensor. The control unit may determine a rotation speed of the fan and an input voltage of the sterilizing lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan based on the determined sterilizing intensity. The control unit may adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the second temperature of the storage compartment.

[0007] A method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment includes detecting a contamination level inside a storage compartment by a contamination sensor; determining a sterilizing intensity based on the detected contamination level; determining a rotation speed of a fan for moving air into the storage compartment based on the determined sterilizing intensity and an input voltage of a sterilizing lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan; and controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on a first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or a second temperature of the storage compartment.

[0008] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can control not only the rotation speed of the fan for supplying cold air but also the light intensity of the sterilizing lamp, depending on the contamination level of the storage compartment. Therefore, even if the flow rate of cold air increases as the fan rotation speed increases, a decrease in the sterilization rate can be prevented and the sterilization time can be shortened.

[0009] In addition, the disclosed refrigerator and its control method can maximize and / or increase sterilization performance by controlling the input voltage of the sterilization lamp according to the temperature of the sterilization lamp or the temperature of the storage room.

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigerator with an open door according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a side cross-section of a refrigerator according to various embodiments.

[0012] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the sterilizing and deodorizing device, cooling duct, and fan illustrated in Figure 2.

[0013] Figure 4 illustrates a sterilizing and deodorizing device according to various embodiments mounted in a refrigerator.

[0014] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a sterilizing and deodorizing device according to various embodiments.

[0015] Figure 6 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to various embodiments.

[0016] Figure 7 is a table showing examples of sterilization intensity corresponding to contamination level and input voltage of fan and sterilization lamp corresponding to sterilization intensity.

[0017] Figure 8 is a table of experimental data showing that the light irradiance of a germicidal lamp varies depending on temperature.

[0018] Figure 9 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method of controlling a refrigerator according to various embodiments.

[0019] Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp described in Fig. 9.

[0020] Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a method for controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp described in Fig. 9.

[0021] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a refrigerator for adjusting the input voltage of a sterilizing lamp based on the temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the temperature of a storage room.

[0022] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0023] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0024] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0025] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0026] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0027] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0028] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0029] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0030] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0031] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0032] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0033] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a cabinet.

[0034] A "cabinet" may include an inner case, an outer case disposed outside the inner case, and insulation provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0035] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the exterior of the cabinet, and may be joined to the exterior of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0036] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0037] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0038] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0039] A refrigerator (1) may include one or more storage compartments. When two or more storage compartments are formed in the refrigerator (1), each storage compartment may have a different purpose and may be maintained at different temperatures. To this end, each storage compartment may be separated from the other by a partition wall containing insulating material.

[0040] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. A refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and a freezer may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze or maintain them in a frozen state, and for example, a freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. A variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's option or not.

[0041] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close each of one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the cabinet in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0043] The "door" may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to a cabinet, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0045] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by pressing against the front of the cabinet when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0046] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0047] The refrigerator (1) can be classified into a French door type, a side-by-side type, a bottom mounted freezer (BMF), a top mounted freezer (TMF), or a single-door refrigerator (1) depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0049] A "cold air supply device" may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0050] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0052] The "machine room" may be provided with a compartment and insulation from the storage room to prevent and / or reduce heat generated by components placed in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the cabinet to dissipate heat from components placed inside the machine room.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without opening the door.

[0054] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray that stores water, an ice-separating device that separates ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket that stores ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0055] According to one embodiment, a refrigerator (1) may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator (1). The refrigerator (1) may include at least one control unit and at least one processor. The control unit may generate a control signal for controlling the operation of a cold air supply device. For example, the control unit may receive temperature information of a storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal for controlling the operation of a cold air supply device based on the temperature information of the storage compartment.

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigerator with an open door according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a side cross-section of a refrigerator according to various embodiments.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a refrigerator (1) may include a cabinet (10), a storage compartment (20) formed by being divided vertically inside the cabinet (10), and a door (30) for opening and closing the storage compartment (20). In addition, the refrigerator (1) may include a cold air supply device for supplying cold air to the storage compartment (20).

[0059] The cabinet (10) may include an inner case (11) forming a storage room (20), an outer case (12) bonded to the outside of the inner case (11) to form an exterior, and an insulating material (13) foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12) to insulate the storage room (20).

[0060] A machine room (27) may be formed at the lower rear side of the cabinet (10). A cold air supply device may be arranged in the machine room (27). The cold air supply device may include a compressor (C) for compressing refrigerant, a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, an expansion valve for expanding the refrigerant condensed by the condenser, an evaporator (E) installed at the rear of the storage room (20) for cooling the surrounding air, a fan (F) for moving the air cooled by the evaporator (E) to the storage room (20), and a cold air duct (60) for guiding cold air flowing according to the operation of the fan (F) to the storage room (20). The cold air duct (60) may be arranged at the rear side of the storage room (20).

[0061] The storage room (20) may include a refrigerator (22) and a freezer (23, 24). An evaporator (E), a fan (F), and a cold air duct (60) may be arranged at the rear of each of the refrigerator (22) and the freezer (23, 24).

[0062] The storage room (20) can be divided into multiple sections by partitions (15). Inside the storage room (20), multiple shelves (25) and storage containers (26) can be provided to store food, etc.

[0063] The storage room (20) can be divided into a plurality of storage rooms (22, 23, 24) by a partition (15). The partition (15) can include a first partition (17) and a second partition (19). The first partition (17) can be horizontally coupled inside the storage room (20) to divide the storage room (20) into an upper storage room (22) and lower storage rooms (23, 24). The second partition (19) can be vertically coupled to the lower storage rooms (23, 24) to divide the lower storage rooms (23, 24) into a first storage room (23) and a second storage room (24).

[0064] When the first partition (17) and the second partition (19) are combined, the partition (15) can have a T-shape. The partition (15) can divide the storage compartment (20) into three spaces. Among the upper storage compartment (22) and the lower storage compartments (23, 24) divided by the first partition (17), the upper storage compartment (22) can be used as a refrigerator. At least one of the two lower storage compartments (23, 24) can be used as a freezer.

[0065] For example, the entire lower storage compartments (23, 24) can be used as a freezer. The first lower storage compartment (23) can be used as a freezer and the second lower storage compartment (24) can be used as a refrigerator. The first lower storage compartment (23) can be used as a freezer and the second lower storage compartment (24) can be used as a refrigerator. Both the first lower storage compartment (23) and the second lower storage compartment (24) can be used as refrigerators.

[0066] The storage room (20) is not limited to the example shown. The storage room (20) can be formed in various ways depending on the design.

[0067] A refrigerator (1) may include a door (30). The door (30) may open or close each of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the freezer compartment (23, 24). The door (30) may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10). The door (30) may include a pair of refrigerator compartment doors (31) and a pair of freezer compartment doors (33). The refrigerator compartment door (31) may open and close the refrigerator compartment (22). The freezer compartment door (33) may open and close the freezer compartments (23, 24).

[0068] A pair of refrigerator doors (31) may be provided with a first door handle (32a) and a second door handle (32b). Part of or all of the refrigerator compartment (22) may be opened or closed by at least one of the pair of refrigerator compartment doors (31).

[0069] When the refrigerator door (31) is closed, a rotation bar (35) may be provided on at least one of the pair of refrigerator doors (31) so that the refrigerator doors (31) can be sealed without a gap being created between them. The rotation bar (35) may be rotatably coupled to at least one of the pair of refrigerator doors (31). The rotation bar (35) may be rotated by a rotation guide (14) formed on the cabinet (10) according to the opening and closing of the refrigerator door (31).

[0070] Each of the pair of freezer doors (33) may be provided with a freezer door handle (34). The freezer door (33) may also be provided as a sliding door.

[0071] Door shelves (31a, 33a) for storing food may be provided on the back of the refrigerator door (31) and the freezer door (33).

[0072] Each of the refrigerator door (31) and the freezer door (33) may be provided with shelf supports (31b, 33b) that support the left and right sides of the door shelves (31a, 33a). The shelf supports (31b, 33b) may be provided detachably on each of the doors (31, 33).

[0073] Additionally, a first gasket (31c, 33c) may be provided on the back edge of each door (31, 33) to seal the gap between the door (31, 33) and the cabinet (10) when the door (31, 33) is closed. The first gasket (31c, 33c) may be installed in a loop shape along the back edge of each door (31, 33) and may include a magnet inside.

[0074] The refrigerator door (31) may be provided as a double door including a first door (40) and a second door (50). The first door (40) is rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by a first hinge (70) and can open and close the refrigerator (22). The aforementioned door shelf (31a), shelf support (31b), and first gasket (31c) may be provided on the first door (40).

[0075] The first door (40) may include an opening (41). A user may store food on the door shelf (31a) or take food out of the door shelf (31a) through the opening (41) while the first door (40) is closed. The opening (41) passes through the first door (40) and may be opened and closed by the second door (50).

[0076] A second door (50) is provided in front of the first door (40) so as to be able to open and close the opening (41) of the first door (40). The second door (50) may be provided so as to be rotatable in the same direction as the first door (40). For example, the second door (50) may be rotatably supported by a second hinge (80) installed on the first door (40). The second hinge (80) may also be installed on the cabinet (10).

[0077] The second door (50) may include a second gasket to maintain airtightness with the first door (40). The second gasket may be installed in a loop shape along the edge of the back surface of the second door (50) and may include a magnet inside.

[0078] A sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) for sterilizing and deodorizing air may be provided in the storage room (20). The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may be provided in the refrigerator room (22). The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may be mounted on the upper wall of the refrigerator room (22). The sterilizing and deodorizing device may also be referred to as a sterilizing device.

[0079] Figure 3 is an enlarged cross-section of the sterilizing and deodorizing device, cooling duct, and fan illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 4 illustrates a sterilizing and deodorizing device according to various embodiments mounted in a refrigerator.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) can be mounted on the upper wall of the refrigerator compartment (22). The upper wall of the refrigerator compartment (22) can correspond to the inner case (11) of the storage compartment (20) described above. The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) includes a housing (110), and the housing (110) can be mounted on the upper wall of the refrigerator compartment (22). The location of the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) is not limited to the refrigerator compartment (22). The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) can be installed in a location other than the refrigerator compartment (22). The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) can also be installed in the freezer compartment (23, 24).

[0081] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may be connected to a cold air duct (60). The cold air duct (60) may be arranged at the rear of the refrigerator compartment (22). Air cooled by the evaporator (E) may move through the cold air duct (60) according to the operation of the fan (F). The cold air moving through the cold air duct (60) may be discharged from the cold air duct (60) through a cold air discharge port (61). The cold air discharged from the cold air discharge port (61) may be introduced into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The cold air discharge port (61) may be connected to an inlet port (111) of the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The cold air discharged from the cold air discharge port (61) may be introduced into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) through the inlet port (111).

[0082] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) includes a sterilizing lamp (140). The sterilizing lamp (140) can sterilize air introduced into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The sterilizing lamp (140) can emit ultraviolet rays to sterilize the air. For example, the sterilizing lamp (140) can be provided as a UVC (Ultraviolet C) lamp.

[0083] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a deodorizing filter (150). The deodorizing filter (150) may remove odors from air introduced into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The deodorizing filter (150) may be activated by ultraviolet rays emitted from a sterilizing lamp (140). After passing through the sterilizing lamp (140) and the deodorizing filter (150), the air may be discharged into the refrigerator compartment (22) through the discharge port (170).

[0084] In addition, the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a deodorizing lamp (160). The deodorizing lamp (160) may emit ultraviolet rays to activate the deodorizing filter (150). For example, the deodorizing lamp (160) may be provided as a UVA (Ultraviolet A) lamp. The deodorizing lamp (160) may be positioned adjacent to the discharge port (170). Air drawn into the housing (110) may pass through the sterilizing lamp (140), the deodorizing filter (150), and the deodorizing lamp (160) and then be discharged through the discharge port (170).

[0085] The refrigerator (1) may include a temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor (310) that detects a first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) and a second temperature sensor (320) that detects a second temperature of the storage compartment (20). The first temperature sensor (310) may be located within the housing (110) of the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The second temperature sensor (320) may be located within the storage compartment (20).

[0086] The location of the first temperature sensor (310) is not limited to that shown. The first temperature sensor (310) may be installed in various locations capable of measuring the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). For example, the first temperature sensor (310) may be built into the sterilizing lamp (140). The location of the second temperature sensor (310) is also not limited to that shown. The second temperature sensor (320) may be installed in various locations capable of measuring the second temperature of the storage chamber (20).

[0087] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a sterilizing and deodorizing device according to various embodiments.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 5, the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a housing (110). The housing (110) may include a first housing (120) mounted on the upper wall of the refrigerator (22) and a second housing (130) mounted on the lower portion of the first housing (120).

[0089] The second housing (130) may include a germicidal lamp mounting portion (131) in which a germicidal lamp (140) is mounted. The germicidal lamp mounting portion (131) may be provided on the lower wall of the second housing (130). The germicidal lamp mounting portion (131) may be provided in the central portion of the lower wall of the second housing (130). Both ends of a germicidal lamp (140) having a cylindrical shape may be mounted on the germicidal lamp mounting portion (131).

[0090] The second housing (130) may include a deodorizing filter mounting portion (132) on which a deodorizing filter (150) is mounted. The deodorizing filter mounting portion (132) may be provided on the lower wall of the second housing (130). The deodorizing filter mounting portion (132) may be provided in front of the sterilizing lamp mounting portion (131).

[0091] The second housing (130) may include a deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) on which a deodorizing lamp (160) is mounted. The deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) may be provided on the lower wall of the second housing (130). The deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) may be provided in front of the deodorizing filter mounting portion (132). That is, the deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) may be provided on the opposite side of the sterilizing lamp mounting portion (131) with the deodorizing filter mounting portion (132) as the center.

[0092] The inlet (111), sterilizing filter mounting portion (131), deodorizing filter mounting portion (132), and deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) formed by the housing (110) may be arranged sequentially along the direction of air flow into the interior of the housing (110). In other words, the inlet (111), sterilizing lamp (140), deodorizing filter (150), and deodorizing lamp (160) may be arranged sequentially from the rear to the front of the housing (110).

[0093] The second housing (130) may include deodorizing filter ribs (134) provided on the left and right sides of the deodorizing filter (150), respectively. The deodorizing filter ribs (134) may be provided on the left and right sides of the deodorizing filter mounting portion (132), respectively. The deodorizing filter ribs (134) may prevent / reduce ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilizing lamp (140) from leaking out through the outlet (170). That is, the deodorizing filter ribs (134) may prevent / reduce ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilizing lamp (140) from leaking into the refrigerator compartment (22) through the outlet (170).

[0094] The deodorizing filter rib (134) may include a first deodorizing filter rib (135) provided on the right side of the deodorizing filter (150) and a second deodorizing filter rib (136) provided on the left side of the deodorizing filter (150). The first deodorizing filter rib (135) may be provided on the right side of the deodorizing filter mounting portion (132). The second deodorizing filter rib (136) may be provided on the left side of the deodorizing filter mounting portion (132). The width between the right end of the first deodorizing filter rib (135) and the left end of the second deodorizing filter rib (136) may be provided to be longer than the length of the sterilizing lamp (140).

[0095] The second housing (130) may include a deodorizing lamp rib (137) provided in front of the deodorizing lamp (160). The deodorizing lamp rib (137) may be provided in front of the deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133). The deodorizing lamp rib (137) may prevent / reduce ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) from leaking out through the discharge port (170). That is, the deodorizing lamp rib (137) may prevent / reduce ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) from leaking into the refrigerator compartment (22) through the discharge port (170). In addition, the deodorizing lamp rib (137) may prevent ultraviolet rays emitted from the deodorizing lamp (160) from leaking into the refrigerator compartment (22) through the discharge port (170). The length of the deodorizing lamp rib (137) can be made longer than the length of the deodorizing filter (150).

[0096] The deodorizing filter rib (134) and the deodorizing lamp rib (137) can guide air flowing into the housing (110) to the discharge port (170). Inside the housing (110), the air can pass through the space between the deodorizing filter rib (134) and the deodorizing lamp rib (137) and be discharged to the discharge port (170).

[0097] The germicidal lamp (140) may have a cylindrical shape. Ultraviolet rays may be emitted through the curved surface of the cylinder. The germicidal lamp (140) may be mounted on a germicidal lamp mounting portion (131) provided in the second housing (130). Both ends of the germicidal lamp (140) may be mounted on the germicidal lamp mounting portion (131). Ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) may sterilize air introduced into the housing (110). The sterilized air may be discharged into the refrigerator (22) through the discharge port (170).

[0098] A sterilizing lamp (140) may be provided between the inlet (111) and the deodorizing filter (150). Air sterilized by the ultraviolet rays of the sterilizing lamp (140) may be introduced into the deodorizing filter (150). Since the sterilizing lamp (140) is positioned in the central portion of the housing (110), the area within the housing (110) where the ultraviolet rays reach may be maximized and / or increased.

[0099] The deodorizing filter (150) can be activated by ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140). When the deodorizing filter (150) is activated by ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140), the sterilized air can be deodorized by the deodorizing filter (150) and then discharged into the refrigerator (22) through the discharge port (170). Sterilization and / or deodorization of air can be achieved using a single germicidal lamp (140).

[0100] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a deodorizing filter (150). The deodorizing filter (150) may be mounted on a deodorizing filter mounting portion (132) provided in the second housing (130). The deodorizing filter (150) may be positioned in front of a sterilizing lamp (140). The sterilizing lamp (140) may be positioned between the inlet (111) and the deodorizing filter (150). The deodorizing filter (150) may be activated by ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilizing lamp (140). The activated deodorizing filter (150) may deodorize air introduced through the inlet (111).

[0101] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a deodorizing lamp (160). The deodorizing lamp (160) may be mounted on a deodorizing lamp mounting portion (133) provided in the second housing (130). The deodorizing lamp (160) may be positioned in front of the deodorizing filter (150). That is, the deodorizing lamp (160) may be positioned on the opposite side of the sterilizing lamp (140) with the deodorizing filter (150) as the center.

[0102] The sterilizing lamp (140) and the deodorizing lamp (160) can selectively activate the deodorizing filter (150). When at least one of the sterilizing lamp (140) and the deodorizing lamp (160) is turned on, the deodorizing filter (150) is activated, and when both the sterilizing lamp (140) and the deodorizing lamp (160) are turned off, the deodorizing filter (150) can be deactivated.

[0103] When the sterilizing lamp (140) operates, sterilization and deodorization of the air supplied to the storage room (20) can be performed simultaneously. When the sterilizing lamp (140) does not operate and only the deodorizing lamp (160) operates, deodorization of the air supplied to the storage room (20) can be performed.

[0104] When sterilization and deodorization of the air supplied to the storage compartment (20) are required, the refrigerator (1) may operate the sterilization lamp (140). For example, when the door of the storage compartment (20) is opened and then closed, it may be determined that sterilization operation to sterilize the air is required. In addition, sterilization operation may be performed at predetermined time intervals.

[0105] An outlet (170) for discharging sterilized and deodorized air may be provided in the second housing (130). The outlet (170) may be provided between the deodorizing filter (150) and the deodorizing lamp (160). The outlet (170) may include a first outlet (171) formed between the deodorizing filter (150) and the deodorizing lamp (160). In addition, the outlet (170) may include a second outlet (173) formed on the left and right sides of the first outlet (171) by the deodorizing filter rib (134) and the deodorizing lamp rib (137). The sterilized and deodorized air may be discharged into the storage chamber (20) through the first outlet (171) and the second outlet (173).

[0106] From the rear to the front of the housing (110), an inlet (111), a sterilizing lamp (140), a deodorizing filter (150), an outlet (170), and a deodorizing lamp (160) can be arranged in sequence. Since the inlet (111), the sterilizing lamp (140), the deodorizing filter (150), the outlet (170), and the deodorizing lamp (160) are positioned in a straight line, air flow loss can be minimized and / or reduced while sterilizing and / or deodorizing air.

[0107] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a heat dissipation tape (180) attached to the inner surface of the housing (110). The heat dissipation tape (180) may be attached to the inner surface of the second housing (130). The heat dissipation tape (180) may prevent and / or reduce heat generated from the sterilizing lamp (140) from being emitted to the outside.

[0108] The heat dissipation tape (180) can prevent and / or reduce the heat generated from the sterilizing lamp (140) from moving to the storage room (20). By providing the heat dissipation tape (180), the influence of the heat generated from the sterilizing lamp (140) on the temperature of the storage room (20) can be minimized and / or reduced.

[0109] In addition, the heat dissipation tape (180) may include a reflective tape formed of a metal material to reflect ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilizing lamp (140) may be reflected by the heat dissipation tape (180). Accordingly, direct contact of ultraviolet rays with the surface of the housing (110) may be prevented / reduced, and photodegradation of the housing (110) may be prevented and / or reduced. Ultraviolet rays reflected from the heat dissipation tape (180) may sterilize the air again.

[0110] Figure 6 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to various embodiments.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 6, the refrigerator (1) may include a fan (F), a door sensor (90), a sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) (e.g., including a lamp), a contamination sensor (200), a first temperature sensor (310), a second temperature sensor (320), and a control unit (500) (e.g., including a circuit). The control unit (500) may be electrically connected to various electronic devices and / or electronic components of the refrigerator (1) and may control the electronic devices and / or electronic components. The control unit (500) may control the overall operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0112] The components of the refrigerator (1) electrically connected to the control unit (500) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 6. The refrigerator (1) may further include other components in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, the refrigerator (1) may include a user interface and a communication interface. In addition, the control unit (500) may control the aforementioned cold air supply device.

[0113] The processor (520) includes various processing circuits and can process input (e.g., user input) of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface according to programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory (510). The user interface can include an input interface and an output interface. The processor (520) can receive user input from the user interface. In addition, the processor (520) can transmit display signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0114] The input interface may include various input devices capable of acquiring user input, such as keys, buttons, a touchscreen, and a microphone. The input interface may transmit electrical signals corresponding to the user input to the processor (520). The output interface may include a display that outputs visual elements and a speaker that outputs sound. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor (520).

[0115] The refrigerator (1) may include a communication interface including various communication circuits for communicating with external devices. The communication interface may communicate with external devices such as a server, mobile device, or other home appliances via a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator (1) or a user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator (1) or the user device may be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0116] The control unit (500) may include a memory (510) that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator (1), and a processor (520) (e.g., including a processing circuit) that generates a control signal for controlling various electronic devices and / or electronic components provided in the refrigerator (1) according to the program and / or data stored in the memory (510). The control unit (500) may include at least one processor (520) and at least one memory (510).

[0117] One or more control units (500) may be provided. For example, multiple control units may be provided to individually control various electronic devices and / or electronic components provided in the refrigerator (1), or one integrated control unit may be provided.

[0118] The memory (510) stores or records various information, data, commands, and programs necessary for the operation of the refrigerator (1). The memory (510) can store temporary data generated during the process of generating control signals for controlling components included in the refrigerator (1). The memory (510) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0119] The processor (520) and the memory (510) may be provided as an integrated unit or separately. One or more processors (520) may be provided. For example, the processor (520) may include a main processor and at least one sub-processor. The processor (520) may include a separate NPU that performs the operation of the artificial intelligence model. Various electronic devices and / or electronic components of the refrigerator (1) may be controlled by separate processors or by a single integrated processor. One or more memories (510) may also be provided. The processor (520) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein at least one or more of the processors may be individually and / or collectively configured to perform various functions described herein in a distributed manner. When the terms "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are used herein to describe a processor configured to perform a number of functions, these terms encompass, for example and without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the recited functions and other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform various recited / disclosed functions, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions.

[0120] The fan (F) causes air to flow. The fan (F) can move air cooled by the evaporator (E) to the storage room (20). Depending on the operation of the fan (F), the air can move to the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) through the cold air duct (60). The control unit (500) can adjust the rotation speed of the fan (F). The control unit (500) can adjust the input voltage of the fan (F) to adjust the rotation speed of the fan (F). When the input voltage of the fan (F) increases, the rotation speed of the fan (F) can increase. When the rotation speed of the fan (F) increases, the flow rate of air flowing into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) and the storage room (20) can increase. Conversely, when the rotation speed of the fan (F) decreases, the flow rate of air flowing into the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) and the storage room (20) can decrease.

[0121] The door sensor (90) can detect the opening and / or closing of the door (30). The door sensor (90) can be provided for each of a plurality of doors. The door sensor (90) can transmit an open signal corresponding to the opening of the door (30) to the control unit (500). The door sensor (90) can transmit a close signal corresponding to the closing of the door (30) to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can identify the opening and closing of the door (30) based on the signal transmitted from the door (30).

[0122] The sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a sterilizing lamp (140). In addition, the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100) may include a deodorizing lamp (160). The sterilizing lamp (140) may emit ultraviolet rays to sterilize air supplied to the storage room (20) through the cold air duct (60). For example, the sterilizing lamp (140) may be provided as a UVC (Ultraviolet C) lamp. The deodorizing lamp (160) may emit ultraviolet rays to activate the deodorizing filter (150). For example, the deodorizing lamp (160) may be provided as a UVA (Ultraviolet A) lamp. The control unit (500) may control the sterilizing lamp (140) and the deodorizing lamp (160).

[0123] Since the deodorizing filter (150) can be activated by ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilizing lamp (140), the deodorizing lamp (160) may be omitted depending on the design.

[0124] The control unit (500) can adjust the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140). When the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) increases, the light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) can increase. In other words, when the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) increases, the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) can increase. Conversely, when the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) decreases, the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) can decrease.

[0125] As the rotation speed of the fan (F) increases, the flow rate of cold air passing through the germicidal lamp (140) increases. As the flow rate of cold air increases, the time that the cold air is exposed to ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) decreases. If there is no change in the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) despite the increase in the flow rate of cold air, the germicidal rate, i.e., the germicidal performance, may decrease.

[0126] The control unit (500) can determine the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) to correspond to the rotation speed of the fan (F) or the input voltage of the fan (F). The input voltage of the fan (F) can be referred to as the first input voltage. The input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be referred to as the second input voltage. The control unit (500) can increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on an increase in the rotation speed of the fan (F). The control unit (500) can decrease the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on a decrease in the rotation speed of the fan (F).

[0127] The contamination sensor (200) can detect the contamination level inside the storage room (20). The contamination sensor (200) can be placed inside the storage room (20). For example, the contamination sensor (200) can include at least one of a microbial sensor (210) and / or a gas sensor (220). The microbial sensor (210) can detect the microbial concentration in the storage room (20). The gas sensor (220) can detect the gas concentration in the storage room (20). The contamination level inside the storage room (20) can correspond to at least one of the microbial concentration and the gas concentration. The contamination sensor (200) can transmit information about the contamination level corresponding to at least one of the microbial concentration and the gas concentration to the control unit (500).

[0128] The microbial sensor (210) can detect various types of microorganisms. For example, the microbial sensor (210) can detect the concentration of microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, yeast, and viruses. The microbial sensor (210) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the microbial concentration to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can identify the microbial concentration within the storage chamber (20) based on the electrical signal received from the microbial sensor (210).

[0129] The gas sensor (220) can detect various types of gases. For example, the gas sensor (220) can detect the concentration of gases such as acetic acid, aldehyde, sulfur compounds, alcohol, ammonia, volatile organic acids, and methane gas generated from various foods placed in the storage compartment (20). The gas sensor (220) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the gas concentration to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can identify the gas concentration in the storage compartment (20) based on the electrical signal received from the gas sensor (220).

[0130] The control unit (500) can determine the contamination level inside the storage room (20) based on at least one of the microbial concentration and the gas concentration. Data regarding the contamination level corresponding to at least one of the microbial concentration and the gas concentration can be stored in the memory (510). The control unit (500) can determine the contamination level inside the storage room (20) by reading the data stored in the memory (510).

[0131] The contamination sensor (200) is not limited to the examples provided. In addition to the microbial sensor (210) and the gas sensor (220), a sensor capable of detecting the internal environment of the storage room (20) may be included in the contamination sensor (200).

[0132] The control unit (500) can initiate a sterilization operation based on the door (30) of the storage room (20) being opened and then closed. That is, when the door (30) is opened and then closed, it is necessary to sterilize the air inside the storage room (20). In addition, the control unit (500) can perform a sterilization operation at predetermined time intervals. The control unit (500) can operate the fan (F) and the sterilization lamp (140) for the sterilization operation.

[0133] The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to perform the sterilization operation. The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity for sterilizing the inside of the storage room (20) based on the contamination level inside the storage room (20). For example, the control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to be stronger as the contamination level inside the storage room (20) increases. The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to be stronger as the microbial concentration inside the storage room (20) increases. The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to be stronger as the gas concentration inside the storage room (20) increases. The sterilization intensity can be determined as low, medium, or high. Terms indicating the sterilization intensity are relative and can be expressed in various terms depending on the design.

[0134] The control unit (500) can determine the rotation speed of the fan (F) based on the sterilization intensity. The control unit (500) can determine the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan (F). For example, the higher the sterilization intensity is determined, the higher the rotation speed of the fan (F) can be determined. As the rotation speed of the fan (F) increases, the flow rate of the air supplied to the storage room (20) increases, so that the contamination level of the storage room (20) can be quickly reduced. The higher the sterilization intensity is determined, the higher the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) can be determined. As the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) increases, the intensity of the ultraviolet rays emitted from the sterilization lamp (140) increases, and the sterilization rate of the air passing through the sterilization lamp (140) increases.

[0135] The first temperature sensor (310) can detect the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). The first temperature sensor (310) can be provided at a location adjacent to the sterilizing lamp (140). For example, the first temperature sensor (310) can be provided within the housing (110) of the sterilizing and deodorizing device (100). The first temperature sensor (310) can also be built into the sterilizing lamp (140). The first temperature sensor (310) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can identify the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the electrical signal received from the first temperature sensor (310).

[0136] The second temperature sensor (320) can detect the second temperature of the storage room (20). The second temperature sensor (320) can be placed inside the storage room (20). The second temperature sensor (320) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the storage room (20) to the control unit (500). The control unit (500) can identify the temperature of the storage room (20) based on the electrical signal received from the second temperature sensor (320).

[0137] The germicidal lamp (140) can emit heat. The higher the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140), the more heat the germicidal lamp (140) can emit. The heat generated by the germicidal lamp (140) can increase the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140).

[0138] The temperature of the storage room (20) can affect the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). Cold air discharged from the cold air duct (60) passes through the sterilizing lamp (140) and is then supplied to the storage room (20). The cold air supplied to the storage room (20) can have a greater effect on the temperature change of the sterilizing lamp (140) than the heat generated by the sterilizing lamp (140).

[0139] The lower the temperature of the cold air supplied to the storage room (20), the lower the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be detected. That is, the lower the temperature of the storage room (20), the lower the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be detected. The temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be referred to as the first temperature. The temperature of the storage room (20) can be referred to as the second temperature.

[0140] The temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) may affect the germicidal performance of the germicidal lamp (140). As the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) increases, the amount of light emitted may decrease, and the germicidal performance may deteriorate. If the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) is relatively low, the germicidal performance may be improved. Even if the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) is maintained the same, the amount of light emitted may be detected differently depending on the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140).

[0141] That is, the sterilizing performance of the sterilizing lamp (140) is related not only to the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) but also to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). If the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) exceeds the limit temperature, the sterilizing lamp (140) may malfunction. In order to maximize and / or increase / improve the performance of the sterilizing lamp (140), the control unit (500) can adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) according to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) or the temperature of the storage room (20).

[0142] The control unit (500) can increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) being lower than a predetermined limit temperature. The control unit (500) can decrease the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) reaching a defined (e.g., predetermined) limit temperature.

[0143] The control unit (500) can increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the second temperature of the storage room (20) being lower than a defined (e.g., predetermined) threshold temperature. The control unit (500) can decrease the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) when the second temperature of the storage room (20) is higher than or equal to a defined (e.g., predetermined) threshold temperature.

[0144] The control unit (500) may turn off the sterilizing lamp (140) or apply a defined (e.g., predetermined) default voltage to the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the cumulative sterilizing time reaching a defined (e.g., predetermined) threshold time. The control unit (500) may count the cumulative sterilizing time from the time the sterilizing operation starts.

[0145] If a deodorizing lamp (160) is provided in the refrigerator (1), the deodorizing filter (150) can be activated by the deodorizing lamp (160), so the control unit (500) can stop applying voltage to the sterilizing lamp (140) and turn off the sterilizing lamp (140) when the accumulated sterilizing time reaches a critical time. If a deodorizing lamp (160) is not provided in the refrigerator (1), the control unit (500) can apply a basic voltage to the sterilizing lamp (140) to maintain the activation state of the deodorizing filter (150). The basic voltage may correspond to the minimum voltage required to activate the deodorizing filter (150). That is, even if the sterilizing operation is terminated, the deodorizing operation can continue to be performed.

[0146] Figure 7 is a table showing examples of sterilization intensity corresponding to contamination level and input voltage of fan and sterilization lamp corresponding to sterilization intensity.

[0147] Referring to table (700) of Fig. 7, data representing the relationship between the concentration of microorganisms in the storage room (20) detected by the contamination sensor (200), the gas concentration, the sterilization intensity, the input voltage of the fan (F), and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) are exemplified.

[0148] The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity based on at least one of the microbial concentration and gas concentration in the storage room (20). For example, if the microbial concentration is 100 cfu / m 3 If the concentration of microorganisms is less than 100 cfu / m and / or the gas concentration is less than 0.07 ppm, the sterilizing strength can be determined as 'low'. 3 Above 1000 cfu / m 3 If the microbial concentration is less than 1000 cfu / m and / or the gas concentration is greater than or equal to 0.07 ppm and less than 0.1 ppm, the sterilizing strength can be determined as 'medium'. 3 If the above and / or the gas concentration is 0.1 ppm or higher, the sterilizing strength can be determined as 'high'. Low, medium, and high sterilizing strength are relative terms, and sterilizing strength can be expressed in various ways depending on the design.

[0149] Microbial concentration may be a primary consideration in determining sterilization intensity. When microbial concentration and gas concentration correspond to different sterilization intensity ranges, sterilization intensity may be determined based on microbial concentration. For example, if the microbial concentration is 1,000 cfu / m3 or greater and the gas concentration is 0.07 ppm or less, the sterilization intensity may be determined as "high." If the microbial concentration is 100 cfu / m3 or less and the gas concentration is 0.1 ppm or greater, the sterilization intensity may be determined as "low."

[0150] The control unit (500) can determine the input voltage of the fan (F) based on the sterilization intensity. The control unit (500) can determine the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) corresponding to the input voltage of the fan (F). For example, when the sterilization intensity is 'low', the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 12 V. In addition, the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) corresponding to the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 12 V. 12 V may correspond to the default voltage of the sterilization lamp (140). That is, the default voltage may correspond to the minimum voltage required to activate the deodorizing filter (150).

[0151] When the sterilization intensity is 'medium', the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 14 V. In addition, the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) corresponding to the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 14 V. When the sterilization intensity is 'high', the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 16 V. In addition, the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) corresponding to the input voltage of the fan (F) can be determined as 16 V.

[0152] That is, the higher the microbial concentration and / or gas concentration in the storage room (20), the higher the sterilization intensity, the input voltage of the fan (F), and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) can be determined. The figures shown in the table (700) of Fig. 7 are merely examples. The figures regarding the input voltage of the fan (F) and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) may vary depending on the design.

[0153] Figure 8 is a table of experimental data showing that the light irradiance of a germicidal lamp varies depending on temperature.

[0154] Referring to Table (800) of Fig. 8, the performance of the germicidal lamp (140) may vary depending on the environment of the location where the germicidal lamp (140) is located. Table (800) of Fig. 8 shows experimental examples comparing the light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) at room temperature (25°C) and the light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) at low temperature (2°C). In each experimental example, other conditions (e.g., the size of the germicidal lamp (140), the distance from the germicidal lamp (140) to the location where the light irradiance is measured, and the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140)) are the same except for the ambient temperature of the germicidal lamp (140).

[0155] The light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) was measured five times at room temperature (25°C), and the light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) was measured five times at low temperature (2°C). The light irradiance of the germicidal lamp (140) was found to be greater at low temperature (2°C) than at room temperature (25°C). The average value of the light irradiance at room temperature (25°C) was 338.4 mWs / cm 2 , and the average value of light irradiance at low temperature (2℃) is 385.6 mWs / cm 2 It appears as .

[0156] According to experimental data, the sterilizing performance of the sterilizing lamp (140) is higher at relatively low temperatures. The sterilizing performance of the sterilizing lamp (140) may deteriorate in environments with relatively high temperatures. In other words, even if the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) in a low-temperature environment is lower than that of the sterilizing lamp (140) in a room-temperature environment, the same level of sterilizing performance can be achieved.

[0157] In addition, since the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) also becomes relatively low in a low-temperature environment, there is room to increase the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) until the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) reaches the limit temperature. For example, when a default voltage (e.g., 12 V) is applied to the germicidal lamp (140) and the temperature of the germicidal lamp (140) is detected to be lower (e.g., 40°C) than the limit temperature (e.g., 60°C), the control unit (500) can change the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) to the maximum voltage (e.g., 16 V). When the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) increases, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) increases, so the germicidal effect of air passing through the germicidal lamp (140) can be improved.

[0158] Fig. 9 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to various embodiments. Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp described in Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a method for controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp described in Fig. 9.

[0159] Referring to Fig. 9, when the sterilization operation of the refrigerator (1) starts, the refrigerator (1) can detect the contamination level inside the storage compartment (20) (901). The control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can start the sterilization operation based on the door (30) of the storage compartment (20) being opened and then closed. In addition, the control unit (500) can perform the sterilization operation at predetermined time intervals. The control unit (500) can operate the fan (F) and the sterilization lamp (140) for the sterilization operation. The control unit (500) can receive information about the contamination level of the storage compartment (20) from the contamination sensor (200) or determine the contamination level inside the storage compartment (20) based on at least one of the microbial concentration and gas concentration detected by the contamination sensor (200).

[0160] The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to perform the sterilization operation (902). The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity for sterilizing the interior of the storage room (20) based on the contamination level within the storage room (20). For example, the control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to be stronger as the microbial concentration within the storage room (20) increases. The control unit (500) can determine the sterilization intensity to be stronger as the gas concentration within the storage room (20) increases.

[0161] The control unit (500) can determine the rotation speed of the fan (F) and the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the sterilizing intensity (903). The control unit (500) can determine the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) to correspond to the rotation speed of the fan (F) and / or the input voltage of the fan (F). For example, the higher the sterilizing intensity is determined, the higher the rotation speed of the fan (F) can be determined. The higher the sterilizing intensity is determined, the higher the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be determined.

[0162] As the rotation speed of the fan (F) increases, the flow rate of the cold air passing through the germicidal lamp (140) increases. As the flow rate of the cold air increases, the time that the cold air is exposed to ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) becomes shorter. If the intensity of the ultraviolet rays emitted from the germicidal lamp (140) does not change despite the increase in the flow rate of the cold air, the germicidal rate may decrease. Therefore, the input voltage of the germicidal lamp (140) may be determined to correspond to the rotation speed of the fan (F).

[0163] The refrigerator (1) can detect the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) and / or the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) (903). The control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can detect the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on a signal transmitted from the first temperature sensor (310). The control unit (500) can detect the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) based on a signal transmitted from the second temperature sensor (320).

[0164] The refrigerator (1) can adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) (905). In order to maximize and / or increase / improve the performance of the sterilizing lamp (140), the control unit (500) can adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) or the second temperature of the storage compartment (20).

[0165] Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can identify whether the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) is lower than a predetermined limit temperature (1001). The control unit (500) can increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) being lower than the predetermined limit temperature (1002). If the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) is lower than the predetermined limit temperature, there is room to increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140). By increasing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140), the sterilizing performance can be further improved.

[0166] The control unit (500) can reduce the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) reaching a predetermined limit temperature (1003). If the sterilizing lamp (140) continues to operate while the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) exceeds the limit temperature, the sterilizing lamp (140) may fail due to overheating. When the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) reaches the limit temperature, the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be reduced to prevent and / or reduce the failure of the sterilizing lamp (140).

[0167] Referring to FIG. 11, the control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can identify whether the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) is lower than a predetermined threshold temperature (1101). The control unit (500) can increase the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) being lower than the predetermined threshold temperature (1102).

[0168] The temperature of the storage room (20) can affect the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). The cold air discharged from the cold air duct (60) passes through the sterilizing lamp (140) and is then supplied to the storage room (20). Therefore, the temperature of the storage room (20) is related to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140). For example, the lower the temperature of the storage room (20), the lower the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be detected. If the temperature of the storage room (20) is lower than the critical temperature, the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be determined to be lower than the limit temperature. Therefore, if the temperature of the storage room (20) is lower than the critical temperature, the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be increased.

[0169] The control unit (500) can reduce the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) when the second temperature of the storage room (20) is higher than or equal to a predetermined threshold temperature (1103). When the temperature of the storage room (20) is higher than or equal to the threshold temperature, it can be determined that the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) is close to the threshold temperature. The fact that the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) is close to the threshold temperature can indicate that the difference between the temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) and the threshold temperature is small. Therefore, when the temperature of the storage room (20) is higher than or equal to the threshold temperature, the failure of the sterilizing lamp (140) can be prevented and / or reduced by reducing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140).

[0170] Referring back to FIG. 9, the control unit (500) can determine whether the cumulative sterilization time reaches a predetermined threshold time (906). The control unit (500) can terminate the sterilization operation based on the cumulative sterilization time reaching the predetermined threshold time. Before the cumulative sterilization time reaches the predetermined threshold time, the control unit (500) can continue to perform the sterilization operation and periodically perform the detection of the contamination level of the storage room (20), the determination of the sterilization intensity, the determination of the rotation speed of the fan (F), and the determination of the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140). The rotation speed of the fan (F) and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) can be changed according to changes in the contamination level of the storage room (20). In addition, the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) can be adjusted according to the temperature of the sterilization lamp (140) or the temperature of the storage room (20).

[0171] Terminating the sterilization operation may include turning off the sterilization lamp (140) or applying a predetermined default voltage to the sterilization lamp (140). If the refrigerator (1) is provided with a deodorizing lamp (160), the deodorizing filter (150) may be activated by the deodorizing lamp (160), so the control unit (500) may stop applying voltage to the sterilizing lamp (140) and turn off the sterilizing lamp (140) when the accumulated sterilization time reaches a critical time. If the refrigerator (1) is not provided with a deodorizing lamp (160), the control unit (500) may apply the default voltage to the sterilizing lamp (140) to maintain the activation state of the deodorizing filter (150). That is, even if the sterilization operation is terminated, the sterilizing lamp (140) may be turned on to continue performing the deodorizing operation.

[0172] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a refrigerator for adjusting the input voltage of a sterilizing lamp based on the temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the temperature of a storage room.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 12, the control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can identify that the door (30) of the storage compartment (20) is opened and then closed or that the sterilization cycle has been reached (1301). The control unit (500) can start the sterilization operation whenever it detects that the door (30) of the storage compartment (20) is opened and then closed or at each predetermined sterilization cycle (i.e., at each predetermined time interval), and can operate the fan (F) (ON) and operate the sterilization lamp (140) (1302) for the sterilization operation.

[0174] In Fig. 12, the step of determining the sterilization intensity and the step of determining the rotation speed of the fan (F) and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp (140) in response to the sterilization intensity are omitted.

[0175] The refrigerator (1) can detect the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) and / or the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) (1303). The control unit (500) of the refrigerator (1) can detect the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on a signal transmitted from the first temperature sensor (310). The control unit (500) can detect the second temperature of the storage compartment (20) based on a signal transmitted from the second temperature sensor (320).

[0176] The refrigerator (1) can adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) (1304). In order to maximize / increase / improve the performance of the sterilizing lamp (140), the control unit (500) can adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp (140) based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp (140) or the second temperature of the storage compartment (20). Operation 1304 corresponds to operation 905 described above. Operation 1304 may include operations 1001, 1002, and 1003.

[0177] The control unit (500) can determine whether the cumulative sterilization time reaches a predetermined threshold time (1305). Based on whether the cumulative sterilization time reaches the predetermined threshold time, the control unit (500) can turn off the sterilization lamp (140) or apply a predetermined default voltage to the sterilization lamp (140). The default voltage may correspond to the minimum voltage required to activate the deodorizing filter (150). If the refrigerator (1) is not equipped with a deodorizing lamp (160), the sterilizing lamp (140) may not be turned off to maintain the activation state of the deodorizing filter (150).

[0178] In one embodiment, a refrigerator includes: a storage compartment; a cold air duct disposed at the rear of the storage compartment; a fan provided in the cold air duct; a sterilizing lamp for sterilizing air supplied to the storage compartment through the cold air duct; a contamination sensor for detecting a contamination level inside the storage compartment; a first temperature sensor for detecting a first temperature of the sterilizing lamp; a second temperature sensor for detecting a second temperature of the storage compartment; and a control unit including at least one processor for independently and / or collectively controlling the fan and the sterilizing lamp. The at least one processor may determine a sterilizing intensity based on the contamination level detected by the contamination sensor. The at least one processor may determine a rotation speed of the fan and an input voltage of the sterilizing lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan based on the determined sterilizing intensity. The at least one processor may adjust the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the second temperature of the storage compartment.

[0179] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively determine the rotation speed of the fan and the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp to be higher as the sterilizing intensity is determined to be higher.

[0180] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively increase the input voltage of the germicidal lamp based on the first temperature of the germicidal lamp being lower than a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0181] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively reduce the input voltage of the germicidal lamp based on the first temperature of the germicidal lamp reaching the predetermined threshold temperature.

[0182] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively increase the input voltage of the germicidal lamp based on the second temperature of the storage compartment being lower than a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0183] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively reduce the input voltage of the germicidal lamp when the second temperature of the storage compartment is higher than or equal to the predetermined threshold temperature or when the first temperature of the germicidal lamp reaches a predetermined limit temperature.

[0184] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively turn off the germicidal lamp or apply a predetermined default voltage to the germicidal lamp based on the cumulative germicidal time reaching a predetermined threshold time.

[0185] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively determine the sterilization intensity to perform the sterilization operation based on the door of the storage room being opened and then closed.

[0186] The at least one processor may independently and / or collectively determine the sterilization intensity to perform the sterilization operation at predetermined time intervals.

[0187] The contamination sensor may include at least one of a microbial sensor detecting a microbial concentration and a gas sensor detecting a gas concentration. The contamination level may include at least one of the microbial concentration and the gas concentration.

[0188] A method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment includes detecting a contamination level inside a storage compartment by a contamination sensor; determining a sterilizing intensity based on the detected contamination level; determining a rotation speed of a fan for moving air into the storage compartment based on the determined sterilizing intensity and an input voltage of a sterilizing lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan; and controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on a first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or a second temperature of the storage compartment.

[0189] The rotation speed of the fan and the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp can be determined higher as the sterilizing intensity is determined to be large.

[0190] Controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp may include increasing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp being lower than a predetermined limit temperature.

[0191] Controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp may include reducing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp reaching the predetermined limit temperature.

[0192] Controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp may include increasing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the second temperature of the storage room being lower than a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0193] Controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp may include reducing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp when the second temperature of the storage room is higher than or equal to the predetermined threshold temperature or when the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp reaches a predetermined limit temperature.

[0194] The control method of the refrigerator may further include turning off the sterilizing lamp or applying a predetermined default voltage to the sterilizing lamp based on the cumulative sterilizing time reaching a predetermined threshold time.

[0195] Determining the sterilization strength can be performed based on the door of the storage room being opened and then closed.

[0196] Determining the above sterilization intensity can be performed at predetermined time intervals.

[0197] Determining the sterilization strength may be based on at least one of a microbial concentration detected by a microbial sensor and a gas concentration detected by a gas sensor.

[0198] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can control not only the rotation speed of the fan for supplying cold air but also the light intensity of the sterilizing lamp, depending on the contamination level of the storage compartment. Therefore, even if the flow rate of cold air increases as the fan rotation speed increases, a decrease in the sterilization rate can be prevented / reduced, and the sterilization time can be shortened.

[0199] In addition, the disclosed refrigerator and its control method can maximize / increase / improve sterilizing performance by controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp according to the temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the temperature of the storage room.

[0200] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor (520), may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0201] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0202] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a memory (510) of an intermediary server.

[0203] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. Storage room; A cold air duct placed at the rear of the above storage room; A fan provided in the above cold air duct; A germicidal lamp that emits ultraviolet rays to sterilize the air supplied to the storage room through the cold air duct; A contamination sensor that detects the level of contamination inside the storage room; A first temperature sensor detecting the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp; a second temperature sensor for detecting a second temperature of the storage room; and A control unit including at least one processor for controlling the fan and the sterilizing lamp; At least one of the above processors The sterilization intensity is determined based on the contamination level detected by the contamination sensor, Based on the determined sterilization intensity, the rotation speed of the fan and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan are determined, A refrigerator that controls the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the second temperature of the storage room.

2. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator in which the rotation speed of the fan and the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp are determined higher as the sterilizing intensity is determined higher.

3. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator that increases the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp being lower than a predetermined limit temperature.

4. In paragraph 3, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator that reduces the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp reaching the predetermined limit temperature.

5. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator that increases the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the second temperature of the storage room being lower than a predetermined threshold temperature.

6. In paragraph 5, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator that reduces the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp when the second temperature of the storage room is higher than or equal to the predetermined threshold temperature or when the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp reaches a predetermined limit temperature.

7. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator that turns off the sterilizing lamp or applies a preset default voltage to the sterilizing lamp based on the cumulative sterilizing time reaching a preset threshold time.

8. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator for determining the sterilization intensity to perform a sterilization operation based on the door of the storage room being opened and then closed.

9. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above processors A refrigerator for determining the sterilization intensity to perform sterilization operation at predetermined time intervals.

10. In paragraph 1, The above contamination sensor At least one of a microbial sensor detecting a microbial concentration and a gas sensor detecting a gas concentration, The above contamination level is A refrigerator comprising at least one of the above microbial concentration and the above gas concentration.

11. Detect the level of contamination inside the storage room by a contamination sensor; The sterilization strength is determined based on the detected contamination level; Based on the determined sterilization intensity, the rotation speed of the fan that moves air into the storage room and the input voltage of the sterilization lamp corresponding to the rotation speed of the fan are determined; and A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: controlling the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp or the second temperature of the storage room.

12. In paragraph 11, The rotation speed of the above fan and the input voltage of the above sterilizing lamp are, A control method of a refrigerator in which the sterilization intensity is determined to be high as the sterilization intensity is determined to be high.

13. In paragraph 11, Controlling the input voltage of the above sterilizing lamp is as follows: A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: increasing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp being lower than a predetermined limit temperature.

14. In paragraph 13, Controlling the input voltage of the above sterilizing lamp is as follows: A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: reducing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the first temperature of the sterilizing lamp reaching the predetermined limit temperature.

15. In paragraph 11, Controlling the input voltage of the above sterilizing lamp is as follows: A control method of a refrigerator, comprising: increasing the input voltage of the sterilizing lamp based on the second temperature of the storage room being lower than a predetermined threshold temperature.

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