Refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerators with independent freezing and refrigerating cycle devices can overheat and malfunction when operating for extended periods in high outside air temperatures, leading to potential damage of the control module.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design with two independent freezing cycle devices and a control module that alternates the operation of compressors, fans, and condensers to manage high-temperature conditions, optimizing compressor capacity and fan operation rates to minimize overheating and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If two independent freezing cycle devices are operated simultaneously to quickly cool both compartments, then the cooling speed is improved, but the control module overheats and may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The control module alternates the operation of the first and second compressors in periodic cycles. During high-temperature conditions, instead of running both compressors continuously, the system switches between them at predetermined intervals, allowing the control module to rest and cool down while maintaining continuous cooling capability through the alternation of compressors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts compressor operation modes based on real-time temperature conditions. When outside air temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control module activates the alternating operation mode; otherwise, it operates in normal simultaneous cooling mode. This dynamic adaptation optimizes both cooling efficiency and control module temperature management.
2Loss of time
If two independent freezing cycle devices are operated simultaneously to reach target temperature quickly, then the time to reach target temperature is reduced, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module implements periodic alternation of compressors during high-temperature operation, which reduces cumulative power consumption compared to continuous simultaneous operation. By switching between compressors at predetermined intervals, the system maintains cooling effectiveness while allowing energy recovery periods, thereby reducing overall power consumption during the cooling process.
3Power
If compressor capacity is increased to quickly cool compartments in high outside air temperature, then the cooling capacity is improved, but the control module temperature increases leading to overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The control module alternates high-capacity compressor operation with rest periods at predetermined intervals. During alternating operation, one compressor runs at high capacity while the other rests, allowing the control module to dissipate heat during the rest period. This periodic high-capacity operation maintains effective cooling while preventing control module overheating.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design allows for quick cooling of both compartments while minimizing control module overheating and reducing overall power consumption, shortening the time to reach target temperatures and extending the lifespan of the control module.
Implementation Method 1
a first freezing cycle device which includes a first compressor, a first condenser, a first expansion mechanism, and a first evaporator, through which refrigerant circulates
Implementation Method 2
a third fan which blows the outside air to the first condenser and the second condenser
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a control module which controls a first compressor, a second compressor, a first fan, a second fan, and a third fan, in which the control module performs a high-temperature initial simultaneous operation when the outside air temperature is at the outside air set temperature or more, performs a high-temperature initial alternation operation when the freezing compartment temperature is at the freezing compartment set temperature or less and the refrigerating compartment temperature is at the refrigerating compartment set temperature or less during the high-temperature initial simultaneous operation. The control module drives the first compressor and the second compressor together during the high-temperature initial simultaneous operation, and alternately drives the first compressor and the second compressor during the high-temperature initial alternation operation.