Refrigerator and controlling method thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional refrigerators fail to actively maintain temperature distinctions between multiple sections, leading to ineffective temperature regulation in partitioned compartments.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator system with a controller that manages the operation of a compressor, valve, and fans to supply refrigerant and air based on temperature readings, employing a duct layout and fan positioning to maintain temperature differences between compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the refrigerator is partitioned into multiple sections to store different types of food at different temperatures, then the adaptability for storing various food items is improved, but the temperature distinction between sections is not actively maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerator is divided into multiple independent sections (freezer section and fridge section) with separate temperature control capabilities. Each section has its own fan and temperature sensing, allowing independent temperature maintenance. The control unit manages each section's refrigerant supply and fan operation separately to preserve temperature distinctions between compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts refrigerant supply parameters and fan operation parameters based on temperature conditions. The control unit monitors temperature in each section and modifies refrigerant flow rates, compressor operation, and fan speeds to actively maintain the required temperature difference between the freezer and fridge sections.
2Temperature
If refrigerant is supplied to the evaporator to cool the storage chamber, then the cooling effect is improved, but the fan operation may cause air blending between sections before temperature distinction is established
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit delays fan operation for a predetermined time period after refrigerant supply begins. This preliminary delay allows the evaporator to first establish the required temperature in the storage chamber before the fan activates to circulate air. This sequencing prevents air blending before the temperature distinction is properly established.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic control of the fan motor, alternating between operation and stoppage based on temperature conditions. The fan operates periodically to circulate cooled air only when the temperature distinction between sections is established, and stops when sections are mixing, thereby maintaining temperature separation through rhythmic air circulation control.
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
The system effectively maintains consistent temperature differences between compartments, enhancing food preservation by preventing temperature fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
a refrigerant cycle including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation to cool air in a storage chamber. The traditional refrigerator keeps various food items fresh for a long time by supplying air cooled around an evaporator, which evaporates the refrigerant, to the storage chamber.
Implementation Method 2
a refrigerant cycle including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation
Implementation Method 3
a refrigerant cycle including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes: a storage chamber configured to be maintained at a temperature above zero degrees Celsius; an evaporator disposed in a duct that is fluidly connected to the storage chamber; a compressor; a valve disposed in a flow path which connects the compressor to the evaporator; a first fan configured to drive air that is cooled by the evaporator to the storage chamber; and a controller. The controller is configured to: control at least one of the compressor or the valve to supply a refrigerant to the evaporator based on the temperature of the storage chamber, and delay operation of the first fan for a preset first reference period of time after the at least one of the compressor or the valve began supplying the refrigerant to the evaporator.