Refrigerator and method for controlling same

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment comprises: a compressor; a condenser for condensing a refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a first evaporator for cooling a first storage chamber; a second evaporator for cooling a second storage chamber; a flow-path switching valve for guiding the refrigerant discharged from the condenser to either the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and a processor for performing a refrigerant recovery operation by controlling the compressor and the flow-path switching valve.

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 refrigerator includes a refrigerator evaporator for cooling the refrigerator compartment and a freezer evaporator for cooling the freezer compartment, and can independently cool the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment. This method of independently cooling the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment is called a parallel cycle method.

[0004] The parallel cycle method offers the advantage of improving energy efficiency during refrigerator cooling by performing refrigerator cooling independently of the freezer cooling process. However, after the freezer cooling process is complete, refrigerant remains in the freezer evaporator, which can lead to a refrigerant shortage when the refrigerator is cooled again. Furthermore, after the refrigerator cooling process is complete, refrigerant remains in the refrigerator evaporator, which can lead to a refrigerant shortage when the freezer is cooled again.

[0005] The disclosed invention provides a refrigerator and a control method thereof that can perform refrigerant recovery operation not only when the refrigerator compressor is started and before the compressor is stopped, but also when switching between refrigeration operation for cooling a refrigerator compartment and freezing operation for cooling a freezer compartment.

[0006] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a compressor; a condenser for condensing refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a first evaporator for cooling a first storage compartment; a second evaporator for cooling a second storage compartment; a flow switching valve for guiding refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and a processor. The processor may control the compressor and the refrigerant diversion valve to perform a first refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor is started, perform a first cooling operation for cooling the first storage chamber based on the end of the first refrigerant recovery operation, perform a second refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage chamber, perform the second cooling operation based on the end of the second refrigerant recovery operation, and perform a third refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

[0007] A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: a compressor, a condenser for condensing refrigerant discharged from the compressor, a first evaporator for cooling a first storage chamber; a second evaporator for cooling a second storage chamber; a flow switching valve for guiding refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and a processor, wherein the control method, which is executed by the processor to control the compressor and the flow switching valve, comprises: performing a first refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor is started; performing a first cooling operation for cooling the first storage chamber based on completion of the first refrigerant recovery operation; performing a second refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage chamber; performing the second cooling operation based on completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation; It may include performing a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

[0008] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can improve the cooling performance of the evaporator by performing refrigerant recovery operation between switching between refrigeration operation and freezing operation.

[0009] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can reduce cooling operation time and compressor operation time by performing refrigerant recovery operation when switching from cooling operation. This can also reduce the power consumption of the refrigerator.

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigerator with an open door according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a side cross-section of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a cooling cycle system included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a graph showing the control timing of a compressor and a euro switching valve included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 is a graph showing temperature changes of various devices according to the operation of the refrigerator described in Figure 5.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the control timing of a compressor and a euro switching valve included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0018] 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 encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0019] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment may include a cabinet.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] "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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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 inside of these.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0045] 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.

[0046] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle comprising the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle system 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be connected to the exterior of the cabinet to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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. 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.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0053] FIG. 1 illustrates a refrigerator with an open door according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a side cross-section of the refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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).

[0056] The storage room (20) can be divided into multiple sections by partitions (15). For example, the storage room (20) can be divided into multiple sections (22, 23, 24) by partitions (15). The partition (15) can include a first partition (17) and a second partition (19). 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 room (20) into three spaces.

[0057] The first partition (17) can be horizontally connected to the inside of the storage compartment (20) to divide the storage compartment (20) into an upper storage compartment (22) and a lower storage compartment (23, 24). The second partition (19) can be vertically connected to the lower storage compartment (23, 24) to divide the lower storage compartment (23, 24) into a first lower storage compartment (23) and a second lower storage compartment (24). 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.

[0058] For example, both the first lower storage chamber (23) and the second lower storage chamber (24) can be used as a freezer. The first lower storage chamber (23) can be used as a freezer and the second lower storage chamber (24) can be used as a refrigerator. The first lower storage chamber (23) can be used as a freezer and the second lower storage chamber (24) can be used as a refrigerator. Both the first lower storage chamber (23) and the second lower storage chamber (24) can be used as refrigerators.

[0059] The storage compartment (20) is not limited to the exemplified one. The storage compartment (20) may be formed in various ways depending on the design. A plurality of shelves (25) and storage containers (26) may be provided inside the storage compartment (20) to store food, etc. Hereinafter, the upper storage compartment (22) is described as a "refrigerator compartment," and the lower storage compartments (23, 24) are described as a "freezer compartment."

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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 doors (31). A freezer door handle (34) may be provided for each of the pair of freezer doors (33). The freezer doors (33) may also be provided as sliding doors.

[0062] 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).

[0063] Door shelves (31a, 33a) for storing food may be provided on the back surfaces of the refrigerator door (31) and the freezer door (33). Shelf supports (31b, 33b) for supporting the left and right sides of the door shelves (31a, 33a) may be provided on each of the refrigerator door (31) and the freezer door (33). The shelf supports (31b, 33b) may be provided to be detachable on each of the doors (31, 33).

[0064] A first gasket (31c, 33c) may be provided on the rear edge of each of the refrigerator door (31) and the freezer door (33) to seal the gap with the cabinet (10) when the door (31, 33) is closed. The first gasket (31c, 33c) may be installed in a loop shape along the rear edge of each door (31, 33) and may include a magnet inside.

[0065] 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 hinge and can open and close the refrigerator (22). The door shelf (31a), shelf support (31b), and first gasket (31c) described above may be provided on the first door (40).

[0066] 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).

[0067] A second door (50) is provided in front of the first door (40) so as 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 hinge installed on the first door (40). The hinge may also be installed on the cabinet (10).

[0068] 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.

[0069] A machine room (27) may be formed at the lower rear side of the cabinet (10). A cooling cycle system may be arranged in the machine room (27). The cooling cycle system may include a compressor (70) for compressing refrigerant, a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, an expansion device for expanding the refrigerant condensed by the condenser, an evaporator (81, 82) installed at the rear of the storage room (20) for cooling the surrounding air, a fan (91, 92) for moving the air cooled by the evaporator (81, 82) to the storage room (20), and a cold air duct (61, 62) for guiding cold air flowing according to the operation of the fan (91, 92) to the storage room (20). The cold air duct (61, 62) may be provided at the rear side of the storage room (20).

[0070] The first cold air duct (61), the refrigerator evaporator (81), and the refrigerator fan (91) may be arranged at the rear of the refrigerator compartment (22). Air cooled by the refrigerator evaporator (81) may move to the refrigerator compartment (22) through the first cold air duct (61) according to the operation of the refrigerator fan (91). The second cold air duct (62), the freezer evaporator (82), and the freezer fan (92) may be arranged at the rear of the freezer compartment (23, 24). Air cooled by the freezer evaporator (82) may move to the freezer compartment (23, 24) through the second cold air duct (62) according to the operation of the freezer fan (92).

[0071] FIG. 3 illustrates a cooling cycle system included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, the refrigeration cycle system of the refrigerator (1) may include a compressor (70), a condenser (71), a hot pipe (73), a flow switching valve (74), a refrigerator evaporator (81), a freezer evaporator (82), a refrigerator expansion device (75), a freezer expansion device (76), and a check valve (83). The refrigeration cycle system may correspond to a parallel cycle system.

[0073] The compressor (70) can suck in refrigerant and compress the sucked refrigerant to change it into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. The sucking of the refrigerant can be performed using the rotational power of a built-in motor. The compressor (70) can compress the sucked low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant and discharge the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (70) in a gaseous state. By sucking and discharging the refrigerant by the compressor (70), the refrigerant can circulate within the cooling cycle.

[0074] The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70) is transferred to the condenser (71). The condenser (71) is connected to the discharge port of the compressor (70) and condenses the gaseous refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70) into a liquid state by exchanging heat with the surrounding air. Inside the condenser (71), the refrigerant liquefies and releases heat to the outside, thereby lowering the temperature of the refrigerant.

[0075] A hot pipe (73) may be extended from a condenser (71) and connected to the inlet of a refrigerant changeover valve (74). The refrigerant may release heat while moving inside the hot pipe (73). The heat released from the hot pipe (73) may prevent dew from forming on the front surface of the cabinet (10) due to a temperature difference between the inside and the outside of the cabinet (10). The hot pipe (73) may be provided between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12) and may be located in the front area of ​​the cabinet (10).

[0076] The flow switching valve (74) can switch the flow path of the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (71) depending on the operation mode (e.g., refrigeration operation or freezing operation) of the refrigerator (1). The flow switching valve (74) can guide the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (71) to the refrigerator evaporator (81) or the freezer evaporator (82). In the refrigeration operation for cooling the refrigerator compartment (22), the flow switching valve (74) can guide the refrigerant to the refrigerator evaporator (81). In the freezing operation for cooling the freezer compartment (23, 24), the flow switching valve (74) can guide the refrigerant to the freezer evaporator (82).

[0077] The refrigerant diverter valve (74) may be provided as a three-way valve having one inlet and two outlets. The inlet of the refrigerant diverter valve (74) may be connected to a hot pipe (73). The first outlet of the refrigerant diverter valve (74) may be connected to a refrigerator expansion device (75), and the second outlet of the refrigerant diverter valve (74) may be connected to a freezer expansion device (76).

[0078] The path through which the refrigerant flows to the refrigerator evaporator (81) through the refrigerator expansion device (75) may be referred to as an R-direction path. The path through which the refrigerant flows to the freezer evaporator (82) through the freezer expansion device (76) may be referred to as an F-direction path. Depending on the operation of the path switching valve (74), each of the R-direction path and the F-direction path may be opened (ON) or closed (OFF). Using the path switching valve (74), the refrigeration operation for cooling the refrigerator compartment (22) and the freezing operation for cooling the freezer compartments (23, 24) may be independently performed.

[0079] When a refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator evaporator (81) or the freezer evaporator (82), both the R-direction flow path and the F-direction flow path can be closed to block the inflow of refrigerant from the condenser (71) to the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82).

[0080] Each of the refrigerator expansion device (75) and the freezer expansion device (76) can expand the liquid refrigerant flowing in from the flow diverter valve (74). The temperature and pressure of the refrigerant can be lowered as it passes through the expansion device. The refrigerant expanded in the expansion device can be a two-phase refrigerant comprising a liquid component and a gas component.

[0081] Each of the refrigerator expansion device (75) and the freezer expansion device (76) may be provided with an expansion valve. The expansion valve may include various types of valves, such as a thermoelectric electronic expansion valve that utilizes deformation of a bimetal, a thermal electronic expansion valve that utilizes volume expansion by heating of an encapsulating wax, a pulse width modulation type electronic expansion valve that opens and closes a solenoid valve by a pulse signal, or a stem motor type electronic expansion valve that opens and closes a valve by using a motor.

[0082] The refrigerator expansion device (75) and the freezer expansion device (76) may be formed using a capillary tube instead of an expansion valve. The capillary tube may be implemented using a thin tube, and the refrigerant passing through the capillary tube is forced and delivered to the evaporator (81, 82).

[0083] Each of the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82) can cool the surrounding air. The refrigerant flowing inside the evaporators (81, 82) exchanges heat with the surrounding air of the evaporators (81, 82) and absorbs heat from the surrounding air, so that the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant can be cooled. The cooled air can be supplied to the storage compartment (20) according to the operation of the fans (91, 92).

[0084] The pipes extending from the outlets of the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82) can be combined into one pipe and connected to the inlet of the compressor (70).

[0085] A check valve (83) is installed at the outlet of the freezer evaporator (82) to prevent the refrigerant from flowing back toward the freezer evaporator (82). The check valve (83) can prevent the refrigerant from flowing from the freezer evaporator (81) into the freezer evaporator (82) during refrigeration operation. In addition, the check valve (83) can prevent the refrigerant from flowing back into the freezer evaporator (82) after the refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82).

[0086] A refrigerator (1) may include a condenser fan (72), a refrigerator fan (91), and a freezer fan (92). As the condenser fan (72) operates, heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the condenser (71) and the air can be performed more quickly. The operation of the condenser fan (72) may be synchronized with the operation of the compressor (70). As the refrigerator fan (91) operates, heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the air can occur smoothly. As the freezer fan (92) operates, heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the freezer evaporator (82) and the air can occur smoothly.

[0087] Figure 4 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, the refrigerator (1) may include a compressor (70), a condenser fan (72), a plenum switching valve (74), a refrigerator fan (91), a freezer fan (92), a refrigerator temperature sensor (110), a freezer temperature sensor (120), an outside temperature sensor (130), and a control unit (300). In addition, the refrigerator (1) may include a user interface (200).

[0089] The control unit (300) may include a processor (310) and a memory (320). The memory (320) may include volatile memory (e.g., S-RAM, D-RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, EPROM). The processor (310) and the memory (320) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, multiple processors and multiple memories may be provided.

[0090] The control unit (300) and / or the processor (310) can be electrically connected to various electronic devices and / or electronic components of the refrigerator (1) and can control the electronic devices and / or electronic components. The control unit (300) and / or the processor (310) can control the operation of the refrigerator (1).

[0091] The processor (310) can process various data and signals using instructions, data, programs, and / or software stored in the memory (320). The processor (310) can generate control signals for controlling components of the refrigerator (1). The processor (310) may include one core or multiple cores.

[0092] The processor (310) may be configured to perform various operations of the refrigerator (1). The processor (310) may perform operations of the refrigerator (1) according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction, algorithm, program, and / or software stored in the memory (320). The processor (310) may control one or any combination of components of the refrigerator (1). The processor (310) may include a main processor and at least one sub-processor. Various electronic devices and / or electronic components of the refrigerator (1) may be controlled by separate processors or by a single integrated processor.

[0093] The processor (310) may include various types of circuits. For example, the processor (310) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator.

[0094] The compressor (70) compresses low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and discharges it as high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. For example, the compressor (70) can compress the refrigerant through the reciprocating motion of a piston or the rotary motion of a rotor. The discharged gaseous refrigerant can be delivered to the condenser (71). The processor (310) can control the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (70). As the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (70) increase, the heat released around the condenser (71) can increase.

[0095] The refrigerant diverter valve (74) can guide the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (71) to the refrigerator evaporator (81) or the freezer evaporator (82). The processor (310) can control the refrigerant diverter valve (74) to guide the refrigerant to the refrigerator evaporator (81) or the freezer evaporator (82) depending on the operating mode of the refrigerator (1) (e.g., refrigeration operation or freezing operation).

[0096] The processor (310) can control the flow diverter valve (74) to guide the refrigerant to the refrigerating chamber evaporator (81) during refrigerating operation to cool the refrigerating chamber (22). For example, the processor (310) can control the flow diverter valve (74) to open the R-direction flow path and close the F-direction flow path.

[0097] The processor (310) can control the flow diverter valve (74) to guide the refrigerant to the freezer evaporator (82) during the freezing operation to cool the freezer (23, 24). For example, the processor (310) can control the flow diverter valve (74) to close the R-direction flow path and open the F-direction flow path.

[0098] In addition, the processor (310) may control the flow diverter (74) to close both the R-direction flow path and the F-direction flow path. During a refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator evaporator (81) or the freezer evaporator (82), the processor (310) may control the flow diverter (74) to block the inflow of refrigerant into the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82). In other words, the processor (310) may close the flow diverter (74) to prevent the refrigerant discharged from the condenser (71) from flowing into both the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82).

[0099] The condenser fan (72) is positioned around the condenser (71) and can supply air toward the condenser (71). The operation of the condenser fan (72) can be synchronized with the operation of the compressor (70). For example, the processor (310) can operate the condenser fan (72) when the compressor (70) starts, and can stop the condenser fan (72) when the compressor (70) stops. In addition, the processor (310) can increase the rotation speed of the condenser fan (72) when the operating frequency and / or rotational speed (RPM) of the compressor (70) increases.

[0100] The refrigerator fan (91) can move air cooled by the refrigerator evaporator (81) to the refrigerator compartment (22). The freezer fan (92) can move air cooled by the freezer evaporator (82) to the freezer compartment (23, 24). The processor (310) can control the rotation speed of each of the refrigerator fan (91) and the freezer fan (92). For example, the processor (310) can increase the rotation speed of the refrigerator fan (91) as the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the target temperature increases.

[0101] The refrigerator temperature sensor (110) can detect the temperature of the refrigerator (22). The refrigerator temperature sensor (110) can be located inside the refrigerator (22). The refrigerator temperature sensor (110) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the refrigerator (22) to the processor (310). The processor (310) can identify the temperature of the refrigerator (22) based on the electrical signal transmitted from the refrigerator temperature sensor (110).

[0102] The freezer temperature sensor (120) can detect the temperature of the freezer (23, 24). The freezer temperature sensor (120) can be located inside the freezer (23, 24). The freezer temperature sensor (120) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) to the processor (310). The processor (310) can identify the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) based on the electrical signal transmitted from the freezer temperature sensor (120).

[0103] The outside temperature sensor (130) can detect the outside temperature of the refrigerator (1). The outside temperature sensor (130) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the outside temperature of the refrigerator (1) to the processor (310). The processor (310) can identify the outside temperature of the refrigerator (1) based on the electrical signal transmitted from the outside temperature sensor (130).

[0104] The processor (310) can determine whether to perform a refrigeration operation to cool the refrigerator compartment (22) based on the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22). For example, the processor (310) can determine whether to perform a refrigeration operation if the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) is higher than a target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the target temperature corresponds to a threshold value. The target temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) can be set according to a user input or automatically set according to the outside temperature. The threshold value can be changed according to the design.

[0105] The processor (310) can determine whether to perform a freezing operation to cool the freezing compartment (23, 24) based on the temperature of the freezing compartment (23, 24). For example, the processor (310) can determine whether to perform the freezing operation if the temperature of the freezing compartment (23, 24) is higher than a target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the freezing compartment (23, 24) and the target temperature corresponds to a threshold value. The target temperature of the freezing compartment (23, 24) can be set according to a user input or automatically set according to the outside temperature. The threshold value can be changed according to the design.

[0106] In addition, the processor (310) can start the compressor (70) when the temperature of the refrigerator (22) is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the target temperature corresponds to the threshold value and / or when the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) and the target temperature corresponds to the threshold value.

[0107] The user interface (200) can perform interaction between a user and a refrigerator (1). The user interface (200) can obtain user input and display various information about the refrigerator (1). The user interface (200) can be provided at various locations of the refrigerator (1). The user interface (200) can include at least one input interface (210) and at least one output interface (220).

[0108] For example, the input interface (210) can convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal. The input interface (210) can include various buttons, switches, and / or dials. For example, the input interface (210) can include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0109] The output interface (220) can visually and / or audibly convey information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) to the user. The output interface (220) can visually and / or audibly convey information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) to the user. Information related to the operation of the refrigerator (1) can be output in the form of images, text, indicators, and / or voice. In addition, the output interface (220) can display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables control of the refrigerator (1). That is, the display can display UI elements (User Interface Elements) such as icons. The output interface (220) can include at least one of a display and a speaker. The display can also be used as an input device, including a touch screen.

[0110] The components of the refrigerator (1) electrically connected to the control unit (300) and / or the processor (310) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 4. The refrigerator (1) may further include other components in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, when the refrigerator expansion device (75) and the freezer expansion device (76) are provided as electronic expansion valves, the processor (310) may control the opening of the expansion valves. In addition, the refrigerator (1) may further include a communication interface for communication between the refrigerator (1) and an external device. The communication interface may include various communication circuits.

[0111] Conventional refrigerators typically cool the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment sequentially before stopping the compressor. Because the freezer evaporator typically experiences a significant heat load differential with the outside environment, the freezer cooling time is relatively long and a relatively large amount of refrigerant is supplied to the freezer evaporator. Conventional refrigerators stop the compressor when a significant amount of refrigerant remains in the freezer evaporator. Consequently, when the compressor is restarted to cool the refrigerator compartment after stopping the compressor, there is insufficient refrigerant to be delivered to the refrigerator evaporator, hindering smooth cooling of the refrigerator compartment.

[0112] To improve the cooling performance of the refrigerator evaporator, conventional refrigerators performed a single refrigerant recovery operation after the refrigerator and freezer cooling was completed, sending the remaining refrigerant on the low-pressure side (freezer evaporator and refrigerator evaporator) to the high-pressure side (condenser side). This refrigerant recovery operation is also referred to as a pump-down operation.

[0113] When only one refrigerant recovery operation is performed, sufficient time for the refrigerant recovery operation must be secured to sufficiently recover the refrigerant remaining in the evaporator. However, the longer the refrigerant recovery operation is performed, the lower the compressor suction pressure, the higher the energy required to drive the compressor, and the more rapidly the pressure on the low-pressure side (freezer evaporator and refrigerator evaporator) decreases. If the temperature in the evaporator drops to a low temperature due to the sudden pressure drop and the resulting refrigerant evaporation, the ultra-low-temperature refrigerant may flow into the compressor, causing a liquid compression phenomenon and reducing the reliability of the compressor.

[0114] In addition, if the refrigerant recovery operation is performed only when the compressor (70) is started or before the compressor is stopped, a problem occurs in which the evaporator becomes short of refrigerant when switching between the cooling operation of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the cooling operation of the freezer compartment (23, 24). For example, when switching to the cooling operation of the freezer compartment (23, 24) after the cooling operation of the refrigerator compartment (22) is completed while the compressor (70) is operating, the refrigerant in the freezer compartment evaporator (82) becomes short of refrigerant due to the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81), and the cooling of the freezer compartment (23, 24) does not occur quickly.

[0115] To solve these problems, the disclosed refrigerator (1) can perform refrigerant recovery operation when the compressor (70) is started, perform refrigerant recovery operation before the compressor (70) is stopped, and perform refrigerant recovery operation between the refrigeration operation and the freezing operation while the compressor (70) is operating.

[0116] The disclosed refrigerator (1) can determine which cooling operation to perform first among the cooling operation (refrigeration operation) of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the cooling operation (freezing operation) of the freezer compartment (23, 24) based on the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) and the temperature of the freezer compartment (23, 24). Which of the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) and the freezer compartment evaporator (82) becomes the target of refrigerant recovery first may vary depending on which of the refrigeration operation and the freezing operation is performed first.

[0117] For example, a refrigerator (1) may first perform a refrigeration operation of a refrigerator compartment (22) and then perform a freezing operation of a freezer compartment (23, 24). In this case, the refrigeration operation may correspond to a first cooling operation, and the freezing operation may correspond to a second cooling operation. The refrigerator compartment (22) may correspond to a first storage compartment, and the freezer compartment (23, 24) may correspond to a second storage compartment. The refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) may correspond to the first evaporator, and the freezer compartment evaporator (82) may correspond to the second evaporator. The refrigerator compartment fan (91) may correspond to the first fan, and the freezer compartment fan (92) may correspond to the second fan. In addition, the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) may correspond to a first temperature, and the temperature of the freezer compartment (23, 24) may correspond to a second temperature. The target temperature of the refrigerator (22) may correspond to the first target temperature, and the target temperature of the freezer (23, 24) may correspond to the second target temperature. The target temperature of the refrigerator (22) may be set higher than the target temperature of the freezer (23, 24).

[0118] For another example, the refrigerator (1) may first perform the freezing operation of the freezer compartment (23, 24) and then perform the refrigerating operation of the refrigerator compartment (22). In this case, the freezing operation may correspond to the first cooling operation, and the refrigerating operation may correspond to the second cooling operation. The freezer compartment (23, 24) may correspond to the first storage compartment, and the refrigerator compartment (22) may correspond to the second storage compartment. The freezer compartment evaporator (82) may correspond to the first evaporator, and the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) may correspond to the second evaporator. The freezer compartment fan (92) may correspond to the first fan, and the refrigerator compartment fan (91) may correspond to the second fan. In addition, the temperature of the freezer compartment (23, 24) may correspond to the first temperature, and the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) may correspond to the second temperature. The target temperature of the freezer (23, 24) may correspond to the first target temperature, and the target temperature of the refrigerator (22) may correspond to the second target temperature. The target temperature of the freezer (23, 24) may be set lower than the target temperature of the refrigerator (22).

[0119] The processor (310) can sequentially perform the first refrigerant recovery operation, the first cooling operation, the second refrigerant recovery operation, the second cooling operation, and the third refrigerant recovery operation by controlling the compressor (70) and the euro switching valve (74).

[0120] The processor (310) can perform a first refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor (70) is started. The processor (310) can perform a first cooling operation to cool the first storage chamber based on the end of the first refrigerant recovery operation.

[0121] The processor (310) may perform a second refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage compartment. The processor (310) may perform the second refrigerant recovery operation from the end time of the first cooling operation to the start time of the second cooling operation. The processor (310) may terminate the first cooling operation and start the second refrigerant recovery operation based on the first temperature of the first storage compartment being lower than or equal to the first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage compartment being higher than the second target temperature.

[0122] The processor (310) may perform a second cooling operation based on the completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation. The processor (310) may perform a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor (70). The processor (310) may stop the compressor (70) in response to the completion of the third refrigerant recovery operation.

[0123] The processor (310) can control the flow switching valve (74) to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator during the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second refrigerant recovery operation, and the third refrigerant recovery operation, and can operate the compressor (70). The processor (310) can stop the first fan and operate the second fan during the first refrigerant recovery operation and the third refrigerant recovery operation. The processor (310) can operate the first fan and stop the second fan during the second refrigerant recovery operation.

[0124] The processor (310) can perform the first refrigerant recovery operation for the first recovery time, the second refrigerant recovery operation for the second recovery time, and the third refrigerant recovery operation for the third recovery time. The processor (310) can set the second recovery time to be shorter than the first recovery time and the third recovery time. Since the second refrigerant recovery operation is performed between the switching between the refrigeration operation and the freezing operation, it can be performed for a relatively short time.

[0125] The processor (310) may increase the first recovery time, the second recovery time, and the third recovery time as the outside temperature increases. As the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) and / or the temperature of the freezer compartment (23, 24) and the outside temperature increases, the heat load increases, and thus the amount of refrigerant supplied to the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) and / or the freezer compartment evaporator (82) may increase. Accordingly, more time may be required to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) and / or the freezer compartment evaporator (82).

[0126] Fig. 5 is a graph showing the control timing of a compressor and a switching valve included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is a graph showing temperature changes of various devices according to the operation of the refrigerator described in Fig. 5.

[0127] Referring to the graph (500) of FIG. 5 and the graph (600) of FIG. 6, the operation of the compressor (70) and the euro changeover valve (74) is explained when the refrigerator compartment (22) is cooled first and then the freezer compartment (23, 24) is cooled.

[0128] The processor (310) may start (ON) the compressor (70) when the temperature of the refrigerator (22) is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the target temperature corresponds to a first threshold value and / or when the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) and the target temperature corresponds to a second threshold value. In addition, the processor (310) of the refrigerator (1) may sequentially perform the refrigeration operation of the refrigerator (22) and the freezing operation of the freezer (23, 24) based on the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the temperature of the freezer (23, 24). For example, when the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the target temperature is greater than the difference between the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) and the target temperature, the refrigeration operation may be performed first.

[0129] The processor (310) can start a first refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82) at time t1 when the compressor (70) starts. The first refrigerant recovery operation can be performed from time t1 to time t2. The processor (310) can close (OFF) the flow path switching valve (74) from time t1 to time t2 when the first refrigerant recovery operation is performed. By closing the R-direction flow path and the F-direction flow path, the inflow of refrigerant into the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82) can be blocked. The time from time t1 to time t2 corresponds to the first recovery time.

[0130] Additionally, the processor (310) can stop the refrigerator fan (91) and operate the freezer fan (92) during the first refrigerant recovery operation. Depending on the operation of the freezer fan (92), heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the freezer evaporator (82) and the air, and the refrigerant can be recovered more quickly.

[0131] By moving the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82) toward the compressor (70) and condenser (71) before starting the refrigeration operation of the refrigerator compartment (22), a sufficient amount of refrigerant can be quickly supplied to the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) as soon as the refrigeration operation starts. Therefore, when the refrigeration operation starts, the temperature of the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) can be rapidly reduced, and the refrigerator compartment (22) can be quickly cooled.

[0132] The processor (310) can operate the flow diverter valve (74) to open the R-direction flow path at time t2 when the first refrigerant recovery operation ends. As the R-direction flow path is opened, cooling of the refrigerator (22) can be performed. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70) can sequentially pass through the condenser (71), the hot pipe (73), the flow diverter valve (74), the refrigerator expansion device (75), and the refrigerator evaporator (81). The refrigerant that has passed through the refrigerator evaporator (81) can return to the compressor (70).

[0133] The processor (310) may terminate the refrigeration operation when the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) reaches the target temperature Ta. For example, the processor (310) may terminate the refrigeration operation when the temperature of the refrigerator compartment (22) is lower than or equal to the target temperature Ta. The refrigeration operation may be terminated at time t3, and the flow path switching valve (74) may be controlled to close the R-direction flow path. When the refrigeration operation is terminated, refrigerant may remain in the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81).

[0134] The processor (310) may perform a second refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) before switching from the refrigeration operation to the freezing operation for cooling the freezer compartment (23, 24). The second refrigerant recovery operation may be performed from the time point t3 when the refrigeration operation ends to the time point t4. The processor (310) may close (OFF) the flow path switching valve (74) from the time point t3 to the time point t4 when the second refrigerant recovery operation is performed. By closing both the R direction flow path and the F direction flow path, the inflow of refrigerant into the refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) and the freezer compartment evaporator (82) may be blocked. The processor (310) may continue to operate the compressor (70). The time from the time point t3 to the time point t4 corresponds to the second recovery time.

[0135] Additionally, the processor (310) can stop the freezer fan (92) and operate the refrigerator fan (91) during the second refrigerant recovery operation. Depending on the operation of the refrigerator fan (91), heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the air, and the refrigerant can be recovered more quickly.

[0136] The refrigerator (1) can quickly supply a sufficient amount of refrigerant to the freezer evaporator (82) as soon as the freezer operation starts by moving the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (81) to the compressor (70) and condenser (71) before starting the freezer operation of the freezer (23, 24). Therefore, when the freezer operation starts, the temperature of the freezer evaporator (82) can rapidly decrease, and the freezer (23, 24) can be quickly cooled (see Fig. 6).

[0137] The processor (310) can operate the flow diverter valve (74) to open the F-direction flow path at time t4 when the second refrigerant recovery operation ends. As the F-direction flow path is opened, cooling of the freezer (23, 24) can be performed. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70) can sequentially pass through the condenser (71), the hot pipe (73), the flow diverter valve (74), the freezer expansion device (76), and the freezer evaporator (82). The refrigerant that has passed through the freezer evaporator (82) can return to the compressor (70).

[0138] The processor (310) may terminate the freezing operation when the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) reaches the target temperature Tb. For example, the processor (310) may terminate the freezing operation when the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) is lower than or equal to the target temperature Tb. The freezing operation may be terminated at time t5, and the flow path switching valve (74) may be controlled to close the F-direction flow path. When the freezing operation is terminated, refrigerant may remain in the freezer evaporator (82).

[0139] The processor (310) can determine to stop (OFF) the compressor (70) when the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) are both lower than or equal to the target temperature Ta, Tb.

[0140] The processor (310) may perform a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82) before the compressor (70) is stopped (OFF). The third refrigerant recovery operation may be performed from time t5 when the refrigeration operation is terminated to time t6. The processor (310) may close (OFF) the flow switching valve (74) from time t5 when the third refrigerant recovery operation is performed to time t6. By closing all outlets of the flow switching valve (74), the inflow of refrigerant into the refrigerator evaporator (81) and the freezer evaporator (82) may be blocked. The time from time t5 to time t6 corresponds to the third recovery time.

[0141] Additionally, the processor (310) can stop the refrigerator fan (91) and operate the freezer fan (92) during the third refrigerant recovery operation. Depending on the operation of the freezer fan (92), heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the freezer evaporator (82) and the air, and the refrigerant can be recovered more quickly.

[0142] The refrigerator (1) can quickly supply a sufficient amount of refrigerant to the refrigerator evaporator (81) when refrigeration operation is performed again later by moving the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82) to the compressor (70) and condenser (71) before stopping (OFF) the compressor (70).

[0143] The processor (310) can stop (turn off) the compressor (70) after the third refrigerant recovery operation is completed.

[0144] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the control timing of a compressor and a euro switching valve included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to the graph (700) of Fig. 7, the operation of the compressor (70) and the flow switching valve (74) when cooling the freezer (23, 24) first and then the refrigerator (22) is described. Comparing the graph (500) of Fig. 5 and the graph (700) of Fig. 7, in Fig. 5, the flow switching valve (74) is controlled to sequentially open the R direction flow path and the F direction flow path, but in Fig. 7, the flow switching valve (74) is controlled to sequentially open the F direction flow path and the R direction flow path.

[0146] The processor (310) of the refrigerator (1) can sequentially perform freezing operation of the freezer (23, 24) and refrigeration operation of the refrigerator (22) based on the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the temperature of the freezer (23, 24). For example, if the difference between the temperature of the freezer (23, 24) and the target temperature is greater than the difference between the temperature of the refrigerator (22) and the target temperature, the refrigeration operation can be performed first.

[0147] The processor (310) can start the first refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator evaporator (81) at the time point t1 when the compressor (70) starts. The first refrigerant recovery operation can be performed from the time point t1 to the time point t2. The processor (310) can close (turn off) the flow path switching valve (74) so ​​that both the R direction flow path and the F direction flow path are closed from the time point t1 to the time point t2.

[0148] The processor (310) can perform a freezing operation to cool the freezer (23, 24) based on the end of the first refrigerant recovery operation. The processor (310) can operate the flow path switching valve (74) to open the F-direction flow path at a time point t2 when the first refrigerant recovery operation is ended. As the F-direction flow path is opened, cooling of the freezer (23, 24) can be performed. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor (70) can sequentially pass through the condenser (71), the hot pipe (73), the flow path switching valve (74), the freezer expansion device (76), and the freezer evaporator (82). The refrigerant that has passed through the freezer evaporator (82) can return to the compressor (70).

[0149] The processor (310) may perform a second refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the freezer evaporator (82) before switching from the freezing operation to the refrigerating operation for cooling the refrigerator (22). The processor (310) may close (turn off) the flow switching valve (74) so ​​that both the R direction flow path and the F direction flow path are closed from the time point t3 to the time point t4 when the freezing operation is terminated. The processor (310) may continue to operate the compressor (70).

[0150] The processor (310) can operate the flow diversion valve (74) to open the R-direction flow path at time t4 when the second refrigerant recovery operation is terminated. As the R-direction flow path is opened, the refrigeration operation of the refrigerator compartment (22) can be performed. The processor (310) can control the flow diversion valve (74) to close the R-direction flow path at time t5 when the refrigeration operation is terminated.

[0151] The processor (310) can perform a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the refrigerator evaporator (81) before the compressor (70) stops. The processor (310) can close (turn off) the flow switching valve (74) so ​​that both the R direction flow path and the F direction flow path are closed from the time point t5 to the time point t6 when the refrigeration operation ends.

[0152] The processor (310) can stop the compressor (70) after the third refrigerant recovery operation is completed.

[0153] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 8, the processor (310) of the refrigerator (1) can operate the compressor (70) (801). The processor (310) can operate the compressor (70) based on satisfaction of a start-up condition of the compressor (70). For example, the processor (310) can start (ON) the compressor (70) when the first temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the first target temperature and the difference between the first temperature of the first storage compartment and the first target temperature corresponds to the first threshold value and / or when the second temperature of the second storage compartment is higher than the second target temperature and the difference between the second temperature of the second storage compartment and the second target temperature corresponds to the second threshold value.

[0155] Additionally, the processor (310) can determine the order of performing the first cooling operation for cooling the first storage room and the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage room. For example, the first cooling operation may be performed first, followed by the second cooling operation.

[0156] The processor (310) can perform a first refrigerant recovery operation (802). The processor (310) can perform a first refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor (70) is started. The first refrigerant recovery operation can be performed during a first recovery time. The processor (310) can control the flow switching valve (74) to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator during the first refrigerant recovery operation, and can operate the compressor (70). In addition, the processor (310) can stop the first fan and operate the second fan. Depending on the operation of the second fan, heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the second evaporator and the air, and the refrigerant can be recovered more quickly.

[0157] The processor (310) can perform a first cooling operation to cool the first storage chamber based on the completion of the first refrigerant recovery operation (803). The processor (310) can control the refrigerant changeover valve (74) to supply refrigerant to the first evaporator for the first cooling operation and operate the compressor (70).

[0158] The processor (310) may perform a second refrigerant recovery operation based on the completion of the first cooling operation (804). Before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage chamber, the processor (310) may perform a second refrigerant recovery operation for recovering the refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator.

[0159] The processor (310) can perform the second refrigerant recovery operation from the end point of the first cooling operation to the start point of the second cooling operation. The processor (310) can end the first cooling operation and start the second refrigerant recovery operation based on the first temperature of the first storage room being lower than or equal to the first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage room being higher than the second target temperature.

[0160] The processor (310) can control the flow switching valve (74) to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first and second evaporators during the second refrigerant recovery operation, and can operate the compressor (70). In addition, the processor (310) can stop the second fan and operate the first fan. Depending on the operation of the first fan, heat exchange can occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the first evaporator and the air, and the refrigerant can be recovered more quickly.

[0161] The processor (310) can perform a second cooling operation to cool the second storage chamber based on the completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation (805). The processor (310) can control the refrigerant changeover valve (74) to supply refrigerant to the second evaporator for the second cooling operation and operate the compressor (70).

[0162] The processor (310) may perform a third refrigerant recovery operation based on the end of the second cooling operation (806). The processor (310) may perform a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before the compressor (70) stops. During the third refrigerant recovery operation, the processor (310) may control the flow switching valve (74) to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator, and may operate the compressor (70). In addition, the processor (310) may stop the first fan and operate the second fan. Depending on the operation of the second fan, heat exchange may occur between the refrigerant flowing inside the second evaporator and the air, and the refrigerant may be recovered more quickly.

[0163] The processor (310) can stop the compressor (70) in response to the end of the third refrigerant recovery operation (807).

[0164] When the refrigeration operation of the refrigerator compartment (22) is performed first and then the freezing operation of the freezer compartment (23, 24) is performed, the refrigeration operation may correspond to the first cooling operation, and the freezing operation may correspond to the second cooling operation. The refrigerator compartment (22) may correspond to the first storage compartment, and the freezer compartment (23, 24) may correspond to the second storage compartment. The refrigerator compartment evaporator (81) may correspond to the first evaporator, and the freezer compartment evaporator (82) may correspond to the second evaporator. The refrigerator compartment fan (91) may correspond to the first fan, and the freezer compartment fan (92) may correspond to the second fan.

[0165] Conversely, when the freezing operation of the freezer (23, 24) is performed first and then the refrigerating operation of the refrigerator (22) is performed, the freezing operation may correspond to the first cooling operation, and the refrigerating operation may correspond to the second cooling operation. The freezer (23, 24) may correspond to the first storage compartment, and the refrigerator (22) may correspond to the second storage compartment. The freezer evaporator (82) may correspond to the first evaporator, and the refrigerator evaporator (81) may correspond to the second evaporator. The freezer fan (92) may correspond to the first fan, and the refrigerator fan (91) may correspond to the second fan.

[0166] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a compressor; a condenser for condensing refrigerant discharged from the compressor; a first evaporator for cooling a first storage compartment; a second evaporator for cooling a second storage compartment; a flow switching valve for guiding refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and a processor. The processor may control the compressor and the refrigerant diversion valve to perform a first refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor is started, perform a first cooling operation for cooling the first storage chamber based on the end of the first refrigerant recovery operation, perform a second refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage chamber, perform the second cooling operation based on the end of the second refrigerant recovery operation, and perform a third refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

[0167] The above processor can perform the second refrigerant recovery operation from the end point of the first cooling operation to the start point of the second cooling operation.

[0168] The processor can control the flow switching valve to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator during the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second refrigerant recovery operation, and the third refrigerant recovery operation, and operate the compressor.

[0169] The refrigerator may further include a first fan for moving cold air generated in the first evaporator to the first storage compartment; and a second fan for moving cold air generated in the second evaporator to the second storage compartment. The processor may stop the first fan and operate the second fan during the first refrigerant recovery operation and the third refrigerant recovery operation, and operate the first fan and stop the second fan during the second refrigerant recovery operation.

[0170] The refrigerator may further include a first temperature sensor for detecting a first temperature of the first storage compartment; and a second temperature sensor for detecting a second temperature of the second storage compartment. The processor may terminate the first cooling operation and start the second refrigerant recovery operation based on the first temperature of the first storage compartment being lower than or equal to a first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage compartment being higher than the second target temperature by a threshold value.

[0171] The processor may perform the first refrigerant recovery operation for a first recovery time, perform the second refrigerant recovery operation for a second recovery time, and perform the third refrigerant recovery operation for a third recovery time, and may set the second recovery time to be shorter than the first recovery time and the third recovery time.

[0172] The refrigerator may further include an outside temperature sensor that detects the outside temperature. The processor may increase the first recovery time, the second recovery time, and the third recovery time as the outside temperature increases.

[0173] The first storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, the second storage room corresponds to a freezer, and the processor can set a first target temperature of the first storage room to be higher than a second target temperature of the second storage room.

[0174] The first storage room corresponds to a freezer, the second storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, and the processor can set the first target temperature of the first storage room to be lower than the second target temperature of the second storage room.

[0175] A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: a compressor, a condenser for condensing refrigerant discharged from the compressor, a first evaporator for cooling a first storage chamber; a second evaporator for cooling a second storage chamber; a flow switching valve for guiding refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and a processor, wherein the control method, which is executed by the processor to control the compressor and the flow switching valve, comprises: performing a first refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator when the compressor is started; performing a first cooling operation for cooling the first storage chamber based on completion of the first refrigerant recovery operation; performing a second refrigerant recovery operation for recovering refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage chamber; performing the second cooling operation based on completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation; It may include performing a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

[0176] The above second refrigerant recovery operation can be performed from the end point of the first cooling operation to the start point of the second cooling operation.

[0177] Each of the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second refrigerant recovery operation, and the third refrigerant recovery operation may include controlling the flow switching valve to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator, and operating the compressor.

[0178] Each of the first refrigerant recovery operation and the third refrigerant recovery operation may include stopping a first fan that moves cold air generated in the first evaporator to the first storage chamber and operating a second fan that moves cold air generated in the second evaporator to the second storage chamber. The second refrigerant recovery operation may include operating the first fan and stopping the second fan.

[0179] The second refrigerant recovery operation may be started after the first cooling operation is completed based on the first temperature of the first storage room being lower than or equal to the first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage room being higher than the second target temperature by a threshold value.

[0180] The first refrigerant recovery operation is performed during a first recovery time, the second refrigerant recovery operation is performed during a second recovery time, and the third refrigerant recovery operation is performed during a third recovery time, and the second recovery time can be set to be shorter than the first recovery time and the third recovery time.

[0181] The above control method may further include detecting an outside temperature by an outside temperature sensor; and increasing the first recovery time, the second recovery time, and the third recovery time as the outside temperature increases.

[0182] The first storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, the second storage room corresponds to a freezer, and the control method may further include setting a first target temperature of the first storage room higher than a second target temperature of the second storage room.

[0183] The first storage room corresponds to a freezer, the second storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, and the control method may further include setting a first target temperature of the first storage room lower than a second target temperature of the second storage room.

[0184] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can improve the cooling performance of the evaporator by performing refrigerant recovery operation between switching between refrigeration operation and freezing operation.

[0185] The disclosed refrigerator and its control method can reduce cooling operation time and compressor operation time by performing refrigerant recovery operation when switching from cooling operation. This can also reduce the power consumption of the refrigerator.

[0186] 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 the processor (310), may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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 the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0189] 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. Compressor; A condenser that condenses the refrigerant discharged from the compressor; A first evaporator for cooling the first storage room; A second evaporator for cooling the second storage room; A flow diverter valve that guides the refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; and including a processor; The above processor controls the compressor and the euro switching valve, When the compressor is started, a first refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator, Based on the completion of the first refrigerant recovery operation, a first cooling operation is performed to cool the first storage room, Before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage room, a second refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator, The second cooling operation is performed based on the completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation, A refrigerator that performs a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor A refrigerator that performs the second refrigerant recovery operation from the end point of the first cooling operation to the start point of the second cooling operation.

3. In paragraph 1, The above processor A refrigerator that controls the flow switching valve to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator during the first refrigerant recovery operation, the second refrigerant recovery operation, and the third refrigerant recovery operation, and operates the compressor.

4. In paragraph 1, A first fan that moves the cold air generated in the first evaporator to the first storage room; and Further comprising a second fan for moving the cold air generated in the second evaporator to the second storage room; The above processor During the first refrigerant recovery operation and the third refrigerant recovery operation, the first fan is stopped and the second fan is operated. A refrigerator that operates the first fan and stops the second fan during the second refrigerant recovery operation.

5. In paragraph 1, A first temperature sensor detecting a first temperature of the first storage room; and Further comprising a second temperature sensor for detecting the second temperature of the second storage room; The above processor A refrigerator that terminates the first cooling operation and starts the second refrigerant recovery operation based on the first temperature of the first storage room being lower than or equal to the first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage room being higher than the second target temperature by a threshold value.

6. In paragraph 1, The above processor The above first refrigerant recovery operation is performed for the first recovery time, The above second refrigerant recovery operation is performed during the second recovery time, The above third refrigerant recovery operation is performed during the third recovery time, A refrigerator in which the second recovery time is set shorter than the first recovery time and the third recovery time.

7. In paragraph 6, Further comprising an outside temperature sensor for detecting the outside temperature; The above processor A refrigerator that increases the first recovery time, the second recovery time, and the third recovery time as the outside temperature increases.

8. In paragraph 1, The above first storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, and the above second storage room corresponds to a freezer, The above processor A refrigerator in which the first target temperature of the first storage compartment is set higher than the second target temperature of the second storage compartment.

9. In paragraph 1, The above first storage room corresponds to a freezer, and the above second storage room corresponds to a refrigerator, The above processor A refrigerator in which the first target temperature of the first storage compartment is set lower than the second target temperature of the second storage compartment.

10. A method for controlling a refrigerator including a compressor, a condenser for condensing refrigerant discharged from the compressor, a first evaporator for cooling a first storage chamber, a second evaporator for cooling a second storage chamber, a flow switching valve for guiding refrigerant discharged from the condenser to the first evaporator or the second evaporator, and a processor, wherein the control method is executed by the processor to control the compressor and the flow switching valve. When the compressor is started, a first refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator; Based on the completion of the first refrigerant recovery operation, a first cooling operation is performed to cool the first storage room; Before switching from the first cooling operation to the second cooling operation for cooling the second storage room, a second refrigerant recovery operation is performed to recover the refrigerant remaining in the first evaporator; The second cooling operation is performed based on the completion of the second refrigerant recovery operation; A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: performing a third refrigerant recovery operation to recover the refrigerant remaining in the second evaporator before stopping the compressor.

11. In paragraph 10, The above second refrigerant recovery operation A method for controlling a refrigerator performed from the end point of the first cooling operation to the start point of the second cooling operation.

12. In paragraph 10, Each of the above first refrigerant recovery operation, the above second refrigerant recovery operation and the above third refrigerant recovery operation, A method for controlling a refrigerator, comprising: controlling the refrigerant switching valve to block the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator and the second evaporator, and operating the compressor.

13. In paragraph 10, Each of the above first refrigerant recovery operation and the above third refrigerant recovery operation, Stop the first fan that moves the cold air generated in the first evaporator to the first storage room; Operating a second fan to move cold air generated in the second evaporator to the second storage room; The above second refrigerant recovery operation is, A method of controlling a refrigerator, comprising: operating the first fan and stopping the second fan.

14. In paragraph 10, The above second refrigerant recovery operation is, A control method of a refrigerator, which starts after the first cooling operation is terminated based on the first temperature of the first storage room being lower than or equal to the first target temperature and the second temperature of the second storage room being higher than the second target temperature by a threshold value.

15. In paragraph 10, The above first refrigerant recovery operation is performed during the first recovery time, The above second refrigerant recovery operation is performed during the second recovery time, The above third refrigerant recovery operation is performed during the third recovery time, A control method for a refrigerator, wherein the second recovery time is set to be shorter than the first recovery time and the third recovery time.

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