CN117168052A - Magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, control method thereof, controller and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a control method of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance. The household refrigeration appliance comprises: a housing; and a refrigeration system including a magnetic refrigeration module, a first low temperature side heat exchanger, a high temperature side heat exchanger, a pump, and a first fan for the first low temperature side heat exchanger. The control method comprises the following steps: s10: starting a refrigeration system; s11: if the temperature in the first compartment in the housing is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S12; s12: increasing the rotation speed of the first fan and keeping the pumping flow of the pump unchanged, and executing step S13 after a second time period passes; s13: if the temperature in the first compartment is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S20; s20: increasing the pumping flow of the pump. The invention also provides a corresponding computer readable storage medium, a controller and a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a magnetically-refrigerated household appliance is capable of operating in an energy-efficient manner.

Description

Magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, control method thereof, controller and storage medium

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of household appliances, and more particularly, to a control method of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, a computer-readable storage medium, a controller, and a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance.

Background

Nowadays, with the improvement of living standard of people, the refrigerating appliance has been put into thousands of households, such as refrigerators, sideboards, etc. The main current refrigeration mode is mechanical vapor compression cycle refrigeration. The refrigeration technology has high energy consumption, the adopted refrigerant can destroy the ozone environment above the atmosphere, the existing alternative working medium has large greenhouse effect index and explosion performance, the refrigeration efficiency is low, and the utilization of energy sources and the living environment of human beings are seriously influenced.

In recent years, magnetic refrigeration technology has been attracting attention because of its advantages such as high theoretical efficiency, no pollution, no noise, safety, reliability, etc. The magnetic refrigeration technology does not require the use of a refrigerant that causes destruction of the ozone layer of the atmosphere and contributes to global warming, but rather realizes refrigeration based on the magnetocaloric effect of a magnetic working substance, i.e., a magnetic working substance that increases in temperature when magnetized and decreases in temperature when demagnetized.

A magnetic refrigerator is currently known, which includes a room temperature heat exchanger, a refrigerating room heat exchanger, a magnetic refrigerator, and a pump. The magnetic refrigerator generates heat and cold by internal excitation and demagnetization. The pump is capable of driving a heat exchange fluid to flow between the room temperature heat exchanger, the refrigeration room heat exchanger, and the magnetic refrigerator. The magnetic refrigeration refrigerator controls the temperature in the refrigerating chamber by adjusting the flow of the heat exchange fluid flowing to the refrigerating chamber heat exchanger by using a flow control valve. This control method easily results in waste of energy.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide an improved control of a magnetic refrigeration household appliance, thereby enabling an accurate and energy efficient temperature control.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a control method of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, wherein the household refrigeration appliance includes: a housing defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled; and a refrigeration system, comprising: a magnetic refrigeration module configured to be capable of heating and cooling a heat exchange fluid using a magnetocaloric effect; a first low temperature side heat exchanger for cooling a first compartment of the at least one compartment, the first low temperature side heat exchanger being in communication with a first side of the magnetic refrigeration module; the high-temperature end heat exchanger is communicated with the second end of the magnetic refrigeration module; a pump for pumping a heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid is able to flow through the magnetic refrigeration module, the first low temperature side heat exchanger and the high temperature side heat exchanger; and a first fan for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger. The control method comprises the following steps: s10: starting the refrigeration system, and executing step S11 after the refrigeration system is operated in an initial refrigeration state for at least a first period of time; s11: comparing the temperature in the first compartment with a first preset temperature set for the first compartment, and if the temperature in the first compartment is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S12; s12: increasing the rotation speed of the first fan and keeping the pumping flow of the pump unchanged, and executing step S13 after the second time period passes; s13: comparing the temperature in the first compartment with the first preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the first compartment is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S20; s20: increasing the pumping flow of the pump.

When the temperature in the first compartment is higher, the temperature can be preferentially reduced by increasing the rotation speed of the first fan. If the second time period passes, the temperature in the first chamber is still higher than the first preset temperature, and then the temperature is reduced by increasing the pumping flow. The heat exchange fluid flows through the magnetic refrigeration module substantially only at the flow rate required for cooling. Thereby, the magnetic refrigeration type household appliance can be operated in an energy-saving manner.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the initial cooling state is set such that the first fan is operated at the lowest rotational speed and the pump is operated at the lowest pumping flow compared to any of the operating states of the cooling system after the initial cooling state. This is advantageous for the magnetic refrigeration household appliance to operate in a more energy-efficient manner.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control method comprises: in step S11, if the temperature in the first compartment is lower than a first preset temperature, step S15 is performed; and/or, in step S13, if the temperature in the first compartment is less than the first preset temperature, performing step S15, wherein step S15 includes: the pump and/or the first fan are turned off. Turning off the pump or the first fan may effectively raise the temperature in the first compartment. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to directly shut down the pump in step S15. Thus, the pump and thus the motor driving the pump can be turned off, thereby avoiding a situation in which the efficiency of the pump and the motor is drastically reduced due to long-time operation.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the first preset temperature is lowest among all preset temperatures set accordingly for the at least one compartment. Thus, it is ensured that the magnetic refrigeration module provides sufficient cooling capacity.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the control method includes step S16: after step S15, if the temperature of any one of the at least one compartment is higher than a preset temperature set for it, turning on the pump and/or the first fan, and after the pump and/or the first fan is turned on, performing step S11 for a fifth period of time; and/or, step S20 further includes: after increasing the pumping flow rate of the pump, the third period of time elapses, step S11 is performed. Thereby, the temperature in the first compartment can be continuously monitored and the magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance can be controlled according to the temperature in the first compartment.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one compartment further comprises a second compartment, and the refrigeration system comprises a damper for controlling the communication between the first compartment and the second compartment. The control method comprises the following steps: s21: comparing the temperature in the second compartment with a second preset temperature set for the second compartment, and if the temperature in the second compartment is higher than the second preset temperature, executing step S22; s22: increasing the rotation speed of the first fan and/or the opening degree of the air door and keeping the pumping flow rate of the pump unchanged, and executing step S23 after the second time period passes; s23: and comparing the temperature in the second chamber with the second preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the second chamber is higher than the second preset temperature, executing step S20. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance with multiple temperature areas can be controlled in an accurate temperature control and energy saving method.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, in step S21, if the temperature in the second compartment is lower than a second preset temperature, step S25 is performed; and/or, in step S23, if the temperature in the second compartment is less than the second preset temperature, performing step S25, wherein step S25 includes: the opening degree of the damper is reduced. Thereby, the temperature in the second compartment can be effectively increased independently of the other compartments.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, step S21 is performed in synchronization with step S11. Accordingly, in steps S12 and S22, the rotation speed of the first fan may be increased synchronously. The adjustment of the rotation speed of the first fan may be a result of comprehensively considering the comparison results of the temperatures in the first compartment and the second compartment. Further, in step S20, the pumping flow rate may be increased based on the comparison result of the temperatures in the first chamber and the second chamber. Frequent changes of the rotational speed of the first fan or the pumping flow of the pump can thereby be avoided.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one compartment further comprises a third compartment, and the refrigeration system comprises a second low temperature side heat exchanger for cooling the third compartment and a third fan for enhancing the flow of gas through the second low temperature side heat exchanger, which second low temperature side heat exchanger is in parallel connection with the first low temperature side heat exchanger to the first end of the magnetic refrigeration module. The control method comprises the following steps: s31: comparing the temperature in the third compartment with a third preset temperature set for the third compartment, and if the temperature in the third compartment is higher than the third preset temperature, executing step S32; s32: increasing the rotation speed of the third fan and keeping the pumping flow of the pump unchanged, and executing step S33 after the second time period passes; s33: and comparing the temperature in the third room with the third preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the third room is higher than the third preset temperature, executing step S20. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance with multiple temperature areas can be controlled in an accurate temperature control and energy saving method.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in step S31, if the temperature in the third compartment is lower than a third preset temperature, step S35 is performed; and/or, in step S33, if the temperature in the third compartment is less than the third preset temperature, performing step S35, wherein step S35 includes: and cutting off a communication path between the second low-temperature end heat exchanger and the magnetic refrigeration module. Thereby, the temperature in the third compartment can be effectively increased independently of the other compartments.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, step S31 is performed in synchronization with step S11. Whereby frequent changes of the pumping flow of the pump can be avoided.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the magnetic refrigeration module has a first fluid passage and a second fluid passage in communication between the first end and the second end, the first fluid passage passing through a first section of the magnetic refrigeration module, the second fluid passage passing through a second section of the magnetic refrigeration module, the first section being periodically magnetized and demagnetized, the second section being demagnetized and magnetized opposite the first section; the pump is configured as a bi-directional pump capable of switching pumping directions. The control method includes periodically switching the pumping direction of the pump such that: when the first section is magnetized and the second section is demagnetized, the heat exchange fluid flows into the first fluid channel via the first end and out via the second end, and flows into the second fluid channel via the second end and out via the first end; and when the first section is demagnetized and the second section is magnetized, the heat exchange fluid flows into the second fluid channel via the first end and out via the second end, and flows into the first fluid channel via the second end and out via the first end.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, is capable of executing the control method according to the present invention.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a controller for a magnetic domestic refrigeration appliance, wherein the controller comprises a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program which, when executed by the processor, is capable of executing the control method according to the present invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance, wherein the household refrigeration appliance comprises: a housing defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled; a refrigeration system; and a controller according to the present invention. The refrigeration system includes: a magnetic refrigeration module configured to be capable of heating and cooling a heat exchange fluid using a magnetocaloric effect; a first low temperature side heat exchanger for cooling a first compartment of the at least one compartment, the first low temperature side heat exchanger being in communication with a first side of the magnetic refrigeration module; the high-temperature end heat exchanger is communicated with the second end of the magnetic refrigeration module; a pump for pumping a heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid is able to flow through the magnetic refrigeration module, the first low temperature side heat exchanger and the high temperature side heat exchanger; and a first fan for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger.

Drawings

The principles, features and advantages of the present invention may be better understood by describing the present invention in more detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings include:

fig. 1 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a flow chart of a control method according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

fig. 3 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 4 shows a flow chart of a control method suitable for the magnetic refrigeration household appliance shown in fig. 3.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 6 shows a flow chart of a control method suitable for the magnetic refrigeration household appliance shown in fig. 5; and

fig. 7 and 8 schematically illustrate a refrigeration system of a magnetic refrigeration type home refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

List of reference numerals

1. Shell body

11. A first chamber

12. A second chamber

13. A third chamber

2. Refrigerating system

21. Magnetic refrigeration module

211. First end

212. Second end

213. First fluid channel

214. Second fluid passage

22. First low-temperature end heat exchanger

23. High-temperature end heat exchanger

24. Pump with a pump body

25. Heat exchange fluid reservoir

26. First fan

27. Second fan

28. Air door

29. Second low-temperature end heat exchanger

30. Third fan

31. Fluid valve

Detailed Description

In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and advantageous technical effects to be solved by the present invention more apparent, the present invention will be further described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and a plurality of exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

First, in order to facilitate understanding, returning to the description of the background art section, the magnetic refrigeration type home appliances of the related art have problems such as energy saving failure.

In view of at least one of the above technical problems or other possible technical problems, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a control method of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, wherein the household refrigeration appliance includes: a housing defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled; and a refrigeration system, comprising: a magnetic refrigeration module configured to be capable of heating and cooling a heat exchange fluid using a magnetocaloric effect; a first low temperature side heat exchanger for cooling a first compartment of the at least one compartment, the first low temperature side heat exchanger being in communication with a first side of the magnetic refrigeration module; the high-temperature end heat exchanger is communicated with the second end of the magnetic refrigeration module; a pump for pumping a heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid is able to flow through the magnetic refrigeration module, the first low temperature side heat exchanger and the high temperature side heat exchanger; and a first fan for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger. The control method comprises the following steps: s10: starting the refrigeration system, and executing step S11 after the refrigeration system is operated in an initial refrigeration state for at least a first period of time; s11: comparing the temperature in the first compartment with a first preset temperature set for the first compartment, and if the temperature in the first compartment is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S12; s12: increasing the rotation speed of the first fan and keeping the pumping flow of the pump unchanged, and executing step S13 after the second time period passes; s13: comparing the temperature in the first compartment with the first preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the first compartment is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S20; s20: increasing the pumping flow of the pump.

For a better understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Before beginning the detailed description, it should be noted that directional terms used in the description refer to a conventional use state of a refrigerator for convenience of description, and are not to be construed as absolute limitations on the corresponding features.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the magnetic refrigeration type household refrigerator is configured as a refrigerator. As can be seen from fig. 1, the refrigerator includes: a housing 1 defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled; a refrigeration system 2 for cooling the compartments; and a controller (not shown). The housing 1 is formed in particular as an insulating box, which comprises, for example, insulating foam formed by a foaming process.

As shown in fig. 1, the refrigerator has a single compartment, which may be a refrigerating compartment or a freezing compartment. In further embodiments, the magnetic refrigeration household appliance may also be configured with a plurality of compartments, for example configured as a combined refrigerator-freezer. In addition, the present invention can be applied to other household refrigeration appliances other than a refrigerator, such as a wine cabinet, as needed.

The refrigeration system 2 may include: a magnetic refrigeration module 21 arranged to be able to heat and cool a heat exchange fluid using the magnetocaloric effect; a first low temperature side heat exchanger 22 for cooling a first compartment 11 of the at least one compartment, which communicates to a first side 211 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21; a high temperature side heat exchanger 23 connected to the second side 212 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21; a pump 24 for pumping a heat exchange fluid so that the heat exchange fluid can flow through the magnetic refrigeration module 21, the first low-temperature side heat exchanger 22, and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23; and a first fan 26 for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger 22. The refrigeration system 2 may also include a second fan 27 for enhancing the flow of gas through the high temperature side heat exchanger 23.

The magnetic refrigeration module 21 may be provided as any module capable of heating and cooling a heat exchange fluid using the magnetocaloric effect, such as a rotary magnetic refrigeration module or a reciprocating magnetic refrigeration module, etc. The magnetocaloric effect refers to the phenomenon that when an external magnetic field changes, the magnetic moment of a magnetic material (namely, a magnetic working medium) changes in order, so that the magnetic working medium absorbs and releases heat. The heat exchange fluid flowing through the magnetic refrigeration module 21 exchanges heat with the magnetic working medium, thereby being cooled and heated. The heat exchange fluid cooled within the magnetic refrigeration module 21 may flow out of the first end 211 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21 and be pumped to the first low temperature end heat exchanger 22 for cooling the first compartment 11. The heat exchange fluid then returns from the first low temperature side heat exchanger 22 to the magnetic refrigeration module 21 via the first end 211 and is heated. The heat exchange fluid heated within the magnetic refrigeration module 21 may flow from the second end 212 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21 and be pumped to the high temperature end heat exchanger 23 to release heat to the external environment, for example. The heat exchange fluid then returns from the high temperature side heat exchanger 23, for example, through the heat exchange fluid reservoir 25 and pump 24, to the magnetic refrigeration module 21 from the second side 212 and is cooled again.

The controller may comprise a memory storing a computer program and a processor capable of executing a control method for a magnetic refrigeration type domestic refrigeration appliance when the computer program is executed by the processor. The controller may be communicatively connected to components of the magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance, particularly the refrigeration system 2, such as the first fan 26, the pump 24, or various sensors for detection, etc., in order to detect and/or control the operational status of the components.

In order to operate a magnetic domestic refrigerator in an energy-saving manner, the invention proposes a control method for a magnetic domestic refrigerator. Fig. 2 schematically shows a flow chart of a control method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is applicable to, but not limited to, the magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance shown in fig. 1. The control method includes at least the following steps S10, S11, S12, S13, and S20.

In step S10, after the refrigeration system 2 is started, and the refrigeration system 2 is operated in the initial refrigeration state for at least a first period of time, step S11 is performed.

In step S11, the temperature in the first compartment 11 is compared with a first preset temperature set for the first compartment 11, and if the temperature in the first compartment 11 is higher than the first preset temperature, step S12 is performed. The temperature in the first compartment 11 is detected, for example, by a temperature sensor and sent to the controller.

In step S12, the rotation speed of the first fan 26 is increased while the pumping flow rate of the pump 24 is maintained, and step S13 is performed after the second period of time has elapsed.

In step S13, the temperature in the first compartment 11 is compared with the first preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the first compartment 11 is higher than the first preset temperature, step S20 is performed.

In step S20, the pumping flow rate of the pump 24 is increased. The pumping flow of the pump 24 is regulated, for example, by varying the rotational speed of a motor that drives the pump 24. Optionally, step S20 further includes: after increasing the pumping flow rate of the pump 24, the third period of time elapses, step S11 is performed.

Thus, when the temperature in the first chamber 11 is high, the temperature in the first chamber 11 can be reduced by preferentially increasing the rotation speed of the first fan 26. If the second period of time passes, the temperature in the first compartment 11 is still higher than the first preset temperature, and the temperature in the first compartment 11 is reduced by increasing the pumping flow. Thus, the magnetic refrigeration type household appliance can be operated in an energy-saving manner.

In this context, the preset temperature set for a certain compartment may be, for example, a temperature range between a lower limit value and an upper limit value. "above the preset temperature" means above the upper limit of the temperature range, and "below the preset temperature" means below the lower limit of the temperature range. For example, the preset temperature range may be determined according to an input operation of a user.

Preferably, the initial cooling state is set such that the first fan 26 operates at the lowest rotational speed and the pump 24 operates at the lowest pumping flow rate, compared to any of the operating states of the refrigeration system 2 after the initial cooling state. The minimum rotational speed and the minimum pumping flow are predetermined, and may be stored in a memory of the controller, for example. In other words, after the magnetic domestic refrigerator is switched on, it is first operated in an initial refrigerating state with low energy consumption, wherein the pump 24, the motor and the first fan 26 are operated at correspondingly set low speeds. If the temperature in the first compartment 11 does not decrease to the desired first preset temperature after the first period of time has elapsed, the rotational speed of the first fan 26 is preferentially increased and then the pumping flow rate is increased step by step as needed until the temperature in the first compartment 11 decreases to the desired first preset temperature. This is advantageous for the magnetic refrigeration household appliance to operate in a more energy-efficient manner.

As shown in fig. 2, in step S11, if the temperature in the first compartment 11 is lower than a first preset temperature, step S15 is performed. Additionally or alternatively, in step S13, if the temperature inside the first compartment 11 is less than a first preset temperature, step S15 is performed. The step S15 includes turning off the pump 24 and/or the first fan 26.

In this case, it is particularly advantageous if it is determined in step S11 or step S13 that the temperature in the first compartment 11 is below the first preset temperature, if the pump 24 is turned off directly. This not only effectively increases the temperature in the first chamber 11, but also turns off the pump 24 and thus the motor driving the pump 24, thereby avoiding a sudden drop in efficiency due to long-term operation of the pump 24 and the motor. Additionally, the control method may further include: the continuous operation time of the pump 24 and the motor is recorded, and the pump 24 and the motor are turned off when the continuous operation time exceeds a certain threshold.

Preferably, the first preset temperature is the lowest among all preset temperatures set accordingly for the at least one compartment.

The control method may further include step S16: after step S15, if the temperature of any one of the at least one compartment is higher than the preset temperature set for it, the pump 24 and/or the first fan 26 is turned on, and after the pump 24 and/or the first fan 26 are turned on, step S11 is performed for a fifth period of time. The magnetic refrigeration household appliance will continue to monitor the temperature inside the first compartment 11.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 correspondingly shows a flow chart of a control method suitable for, but not limited to, application to the magnetic domestic refrigeration appliance shown in fig. 3.

The magnetic refrigerator home refrigerator shown in fig. 3 has substantially the same configuration as the magnetic refrigerator home refrigerator shown in fig. 1, and will not be described again. Except that the magnetic refrigeration household appliance shown in fig. 3 also comprises a second compartment 12. The second compartment 12 may be separated from the first compartment 11 by a heat insulating wall. A damper 28 is provided, for example, in the heat insulating wall between the first compartment 11 and the second compartment 12 to change the communication state between the first compartment 11 and the second compartment 12. The damper 28 is provided to be able to adjust its opening degree in multiple stages or steplessly between the fully opened and fully closed states, thereby more precisely adjusting the temperature in the second compartment 12. As shown in fig. 3, the magnetic refrigeration type home refrigerator does not have a low temperature side heat exchanger specially provided for the second compartment 12, but cools the second compartment 12 by introducing cool air in the first compartment 11 into the second compartment 12 through the damper 28.

As shown in fig. 4, the corresponding control method may further include steps S21 to S23. In step S21, comparing the temperature in the second compartment 12 with a second preset temperature set for the second compartment 12, and if the temperature in the second compartment 12 is higher than the second preset temperature, performing step S22; in step S22, the rotation speed of the first fan 26 and/or the opening degree of the damper 28 are increased and the pumping flow rate of the pump 24 is kept unchanged, and step S23 is performed after the second period of time has elapsed; in step S23, the temperature in the second compartment 12 is compared with the second preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the second compartment 12 is higher than the second preset temperature, step S20 is performed. It should be understood that "reducing the opening of the damper 28" encompasses the case where the open damper 28 is closed. Preferably, the first preset temperature is lower than the second preset temperature. For example, the first compartment 11 may be set as a freezing compartment and the second compartment 12 may be set as a refrigerating compartment.

Step S21 may be performed in synchronization with step S11. Accordingly, in steps S12 and S22, the rotation speed of the first fan 26 may be increased synchronously. In other words, the adjustment of the rotation speed of the first fan 26 may be a result of comprehensively considering the comparison results of the temperatures in the first compartment 11 and the second compartment 12. Further, in step S20, the pumping flow rate may be increased based on the comparison result of the temperatures in the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12.

Alternatively, in step S21, if the temperature in the second compartment 12 is lower than the second preset temperature, step S25 is performed. Additionally or alternatively, in step S23, if the temperature within the second compartment 12 is less than a second preset temperature, step S25 is performed. The step S25 includes: the opening of the damper 28 is reduced.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 correspondingly shows a flow chart of a control method suitable for, but not limited to, application to the magnetic domestic refrigeration appliance shown in fig. 5.

The magnetic refrigerator home refrigerator shown in fig. 5 has substantially the same configuration as the magnetic refrigerator home refrigerator shown in fig. 1, and will not be described again. Except that the magnetic refrigeration household appliance shown in fig. 5 further comprises a third compartment 13. The third compartment 13 may be separated from the first compartment 11 by a heat insulating wall. The refrigeration system 2 comprises a second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 for cooling the third compartment 13 and a third fan 30 for enhancing the flow of gas through the second low temperature side heat exchanger 29, said second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 being connected to the first end 211 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21 in parallel with the first low temperature side heat exchanger 22. Between the second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 and the first end 211 of the magnetic refrigeration module 21, a fluid valve 31 may be provided. The fluid valve 31 is arranged to control the fluid communication between the second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 and the magnetic refrigeration module 21. Optionally, the fluid valve 31 is configured to control the fluid flow in the communication path between the second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 and the magnetic refrigeration module 21.

As shown in fig. 6, the corresponding control method may further include steps S31 to S33. In step S31, the temperature in the third compartment 13 is compared with a third preset temperature set for the third compartment 13, and if the temperature in the third compartment 13 is higher than the third preset temperature, step S32 is performed. In step S32, the rotation speed of the third fan 30 is increased while the pumping flow rate of the pump 24 is maintained, and step S33 is performed after the second period of time has elapsed. In step S33, the temperature in the third compartment 13 is compared with the third preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the third compartment 13 is higher than the third preset temperature, step S20 is performed. Step S31 may be performed in synchronization with step S11, for example. Preferably, the first preset temperature is lower than the third preset temperature. For example, the first compartment 11 may be set as a freezing compartment and the third compartment 13 may be set as a refrigerating compartment.

In an exemplary embodiment, the rotational speed of the second fan 27 may be adjusted accordingly while the rotational speed of the first fan 26 and/or the rotational speed of the third fan 30 and/or the pumping flow of the pump 24 are adjusted.

Alternatively, in step S31, if the temperature in the third compartment 13 is lower than the third preset temperature, step S35 is performed. Additionally or alternatively, in step S33, if the temperature within the third compartment 13 is less than a third preset temperature, step S35 is performed. The step S35 includes: the communication path between the second low temperature side heat exchanger 29 and the magnetic refrigeration module 21 is cut off. Step S35 may be accomplished by closing the fluid valve 31.

The fluid valve 31 is shown in fig. 5 as a two-way valve by way of example. In further embodiments, the fluid valve 31 may also be configured as a three-way valve, which is arranged, for example, at the intersection of the second low-temperature side heat exchanger 29 and the first low-temperature side heat exchanger 22 communicating in parallel to the magnetic refrigeration module 21.

In one exemplary embodiment, the household refrigeration appliance may have a first compartment 11, a second compartment 12 and a third compartment 13 at the same time.

Fig. 7 and 8 schematically show a refrigeration system 2 of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The magnetic refrigeration module 21 has a first fluid passage 213 and a second fluid passage 214 in communication between the first end 211 and the second end 212. The first fluid channel 213 passes through a first section of the magnetic refrigeration module 21 and the second fluid channel 214 passes through a second section of the magnetic refrigeration module 21. The first section is periodically magnetized and demagnetized, and the second section is demagnetized and magnetized opposite to the first section. This is achieved, for example, by applying a rotatable externally applied magnetic field by means of a magnetic field assembly. The pump 24 may be configured as a bi-directional pump capable of switching pumping directions.

Fig. 7 schematically shows a state in which the first section (upper sector and lower sector) is magnetized and the second section (left sector and right sector) is demagnetized. In this state, the heat exchange fluid flows into the first fluid passage 213 via the first end 211, is heated therein, and then flows out to the high temperature side heat exchanger 23 via the second end 212. On the other hand, the heat exchange fluid from the high temperature side heat exchanger 23 flows into the second fluid passage 214 via the second end 212, is cooled therein, and then flows out to the first low temperature side heat exchanger 22 via the first end 211.

When the applied magnetic field changes, the first section (upper and lower sectors) is demagnetized, and the second section (left and right sectors) is magnetized, as shown in fig. 8. The pump 24 will switch pumping directions accordingly. Thereby, the heat exchange fluid flows into the first fluid channel 213 via the second end 212, is cooled therein, and then flows out to the high temperature side heat exchanger 23 via the first end 211. On the other hand, the heat exchange fluid from the first low temperature side heat exchanger 22 flows into the second fluid passage 214 via the first end 211, is heated therein, and then flows out to the high temperature side heat exchanger 23 via the second end 212.

As the externally applied magnetic field changes periodically, the pumping direction of the pump 24 will also be switched periodically.

It will be appreciated that the periodic magnetization and demagnetization of the first and second sections, respectively, may also be achieved by periodically moving, e.g., rotating, the first and second sections in a fixed externally applied magnetic field.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer program product comprising computer program instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, are able to carry out the control method described above.

In the present invention, the computer program product may be stored in a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable storage medium may include, for example, high speed random access memory, but may also include non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk, memory, a plug-in hard disk, a smart memory card, a secure digital card, a flash memory card, at least one magnetic disk storage device, a flash memory device, or other volatile solid state storage device. The processor may be a central processing unit, but also other general purpose processors, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, off-the-shelf programmable gate arrays or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general purpose processor may be a microprocessor or may be any conventional processor or the like.

It should be appreciated that the expressions "first", "second", etc. are used herein for descriptive purposes only and are not to be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defining "a first" or "a second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In this context, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, e.g., two, three, etc., unless explicitly defined otherwise.

Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, even where only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. The characteristic examples provided in the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative, not limiting, unless stated differently. In a specific implementation, the features may be combined with one another where technically feasible according to the actual requirements. In particular, features from different embodiments may also be combined with one another. Various substitutions, alterations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

1. A control method of a magnetic refrigeration type household refrigeration appliance, wherein the household refrigeration appliance comprises:

a housing (1) defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled; and

a refrigeration system (2) comprising:

-a magnetic refrigeration module (21) arranged to be able to heat and cool a heat exchange fluid using the magnetocaloric effect;

a first low temperature side heat exchanger (22) for cooling a first compartment (11) of the at least one compartment, which communicates to a first side (211) of the magnetic refrigeration module (21);

a high temperature side heat exchanger (23) connected to a second side (212) of the magnetic refrigeration module (21);

a pump (24) for pumping a heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid can flow through the magnetic refrigeration module (21), the first low temperature side heat exchanger (22) and the high temperature side heat exchanger (23); and

a first fan (26) for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger (22);

wherein, the control method comprises the following steps:

s10: starting the refrigeration system (2), and executing step S11 after the refrigeration system (2) is operated in an initial refrigeration state for at least a first period of time;

s11: comparing the temperature in the first compartment (11) with a first preset temperature set for the first compartment (11), if the temperature in the first compartment (11) is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S12;

s12: increasing the rotational speed of the first fan (26) and maintaining the pumping flow of the pump (24) unchanged, and performing step S13 after a second period of time has elapsed;

s13: comparing the temperature in the first compartment (11) with the first preset temperature again, and if the temperature in the first compartment (11) is higher than the first preset temperature, executing step S20;

s20: increasing the pumping flow of the pump (24).

2. The control method according to claim 1, wherein,

the initial cooling state is set such that the first fan (26) is operated at a minimum rotational speed and the pump (24) is operated at a minimum pumping flow rate compared to any of the operating states of the cooling system (2) after the initial cooling state.

3. The control method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the control method comprises the following steps: in step S11, if the temperature in the first compartment (11) is lower than a first preset temperature, step S15 is performed; and/or, in step S13, if the temperature in the first compartment (11) is less than a first preset temperature, step S15 is performed,

wherein, step S15 includes: the pump (24) and/or the first fan (26) are shut off.

4. The control method according to claim 3, wherein,

the first preset temperature is the lowest among all preset temperatures set accordingly for the at least one compartment.

5. The control method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein,

the control method comprises the following step S16: after step S15, if the temperature of any one of the at least one compartment is higher than a preset temperature set for it, the pump (24) and/or the first fan (26) are turned on, and after the pump (24) and/or the first fan (26) are turned on, step S11 is performed for a fifth period of time; and/or

Step S20 further includes: after increasing the pumping flow rate of the pump (24), a third period of time elapses, step S11 is performed.

6. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein,

the at least one compartment further comprises a second compartment (12), the refrigeration system (2) comprising a damper (28) for controlling the communication between the first compartment (11) and the second compartment (12),

the control method comprises the following steps:

s21: comparing the temperature in the second compartment (12) with a second preset temperature set for the second compartment (12), and if the temperature in the second compartment (12) is higher than the second preset temperature, executing step S22;

s22: increasing the rotational speed of the first fan (26) and/or the opening of the damper (28) and keeping the pumping flow of the pump (24) unchanged, and executing step S23 after a second period of time has elapsed;

s23: and comparing the temperature in the second chamber (12) with a second preset temperature again, and executing step S20 if the temperature in the second chamber (12) is higher than the second preset temperature.

7. The control method according to claim 6, wherein,

in step S21, if the temperature in the second compartment (12) is lower than a second preset temperature, step S25 is performed; and/or, in step S23, if the temperature in the second compartment (12) is less than a second preset temperature, step S25 is performed,

wherein, step S25 includes: the opening degree of the damper (28) is reduced.

8. The control method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein,

step S21 is performed in synchronization with step S11.

9. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein,

the at least one compartment further comprising a third compartment (13), the refrigeration system (2) comprising a second low temperature side heat exchanger (29) for cooling the third compartment (13) and a third fan (30) for enhancing the flow of gas through the second low temperature side heat exchanger (29), the second low temperature side heat exchanger (29) being in parallel with the first low temperature side heat exchanger (22) connected to the first end (211) of the magnetic refrigeration module (21),

the control method comprises the following steps:

s31: comparing the temperature in the third compartment (13) with a third preset temperature set for the third compartment (13), and if the temperature in the third compartment (13) is higher than the third preset temperature, executing step S32;

s32: increasing the rotational speed of the third fan (30) and maintaining the pumping flow rate of the pump (24) unchanged, and performing step S33 after a second period of time has elapsed;

s33: and comparing the temperature in the third chamber (13) with a third preset temperature again, and executing step S20 if the temperature in the third chamber (13) is higher than the third preset temperature.

10. The control method according to claim 9, wherein,

in step S31, if the temperature in the third compartment (13) is lower than a third preset temperature, step S35 is performed; and/or, in step S33, if the temperature in the third compartment (13) is less than a third preset temperature, step S35 is performed,

wherein, step S35 includes: and cutting off a communication path between the second low-temperature end heat exchanger (29) and the magnetic refrigeration module (21).

11. The control method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein,

step S31 is performed in synchronization with step S11.

12. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein,

the magnetic refrigeration module (21) has a first fluid channel (213) and a second fluid channel (214) in communication between the first end (211) and the second end (212), the first fluid channel (213) passing through a first section of the magnetic refrigeration module (21), the second fluid channel (214) passing through a second section of the magnetic refrigeration module (21), the first section being periodically magnetized and demagnetized, the second section being demagnetized and magnetized opposite the first section; the pump (24) is configured as a bi-directional pump capable of switching pumping directions,

the control method includes periodically switching the pumping direction of the pump (24) such that:

when the first section is magnetized and the second section is demagnetized, the heat exchange fluid flows into the first fluid channel (213) via the first end (211) and out via the second end (212), and flows into the second fluid channel (214) via the second end (212) and out via the first end (211); and

when the first section is demagnetized and the second section is magnetized, the heat exchange fluid flows into the second fluid channel (214) via the first end (211) and out via the second end (212), and flows into the first fluid channel (213) via the second end (212) and out via the first end (211).

13. A computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, is capable of executing the control method according to any of claims 1-12.

14. A controller for a magnetic domestic refrigeration appliance, wherein the controller comprises a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program which, when executed by the processor, is capable of performing the control method according to any one of claims 1-12.

15. A magnetic refrigeration household refrigeration appliance, wherein the household refrigeration appliance comprises:

a housing (1) defining at least one compartment for storing items to be cooled;

a refrigeration system (2) comprising:

-a magnetic refrigeration module (21) arranged to be able to heat and cool a heat exchange fluid using the magnetocaloric effect;

a first low temperature side heat exchanger (22) for cooling a first compartment (11) of the at least one compartment, which communicates to a first side (211) of the magnetic refrigeration module (21);

a high temperature side heat exchanger (23) connected to a second side (212) of the magnetic refrigeration module (21);

a pump (24) for pumping a heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid can flow through the magnetic refrigeration module (21), the first low temperature side heat exchanger (22) and the high temperature side heat exchanger (23); and

a first fan (26) for enhancing the flow of gas through the first low temperature side heat exchanger (22); and

the controller according to claim 14.