DE102015202886A1 - Refrigerated goods specific operation of a household refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a household refrigerating appliance (1) with a container (19), which provides a thermally insulated receiving space (4, 5) for refrigerated goods, with a control unit (17) and with a cooling device (20) by means of Control unit (17) is controlled, wherein by means of the cooling device (20) a predetermined storage condition for storing the refrigerated goods in the receiving space (4, 5) is set, wherein by means of at least one in the receiving space (4, 5) arranged sensor unit (15, 16, 18 ) at least one physical parameter of the household refrigerating appliance (1) is detected, the sensor unit (15, 16, 18) is supplied with energy for its intended operation by means of an internal power supply unit (21) and a signal corresponding to the detected parameter is sent to the control unit (17). transmitted wirelessly, as a physical parameter, a chilled product-specific parameter is detected with the sensor unit.

Description

The present invention relates to a method for operating a household refrigerating appliance with a container, which provides a thermally insulated receiving space for refrigerated goods, with a control unit and with a cooling device, which is controlled by the control unit, wherein by means of the cooling device, a predetermined storage condition for storing the refrigerated goods in Recording space is set, wherein at least one physical parameter of the household refrigerator is detected by means of at least one arranged in the receiving space sensor unit, the sensor unit is powered by an internal power supply unit with energy for their intended operation and transmits the detected parameter corresponding signal to the control unit wirelessly. The invention further relates to a household refrigerator with a container which provides a thermally insulated receiving space for refrigerated goods, with a control unit and controllable by the control unit cooling device, wherein by means of the cooling device, a predetermined temperature in the receiving space is adjustable, wherein in the receiving space at least one sensor unit for Detecting at least one physical parameter of the household refrigerating appliance is arranged, wherein the sensor unit has an internal power supply unit and is configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the detected parameter wirelessly to the control unit.

A household refrigerator of the generic type is for example from the CH 704020 A2 known. This discloses a refrigerator with a sensor in a utility room for receiving refrigerated goods. In the work space, a sensor is arranged, which is connected to a transmitter. Outside the working space a receiver is arranged. A signal from the sensor can be transmitted wirelessly from the transmitter to the receiver.

Although this state of the art has proven itself, there is still room for improvement. Although can with the CH 704020 A2 the temperature of the refrigerator can be adjusted by means of the sensor, however, it is cumbersome for the user to check whether the temperature has reached the predetermined value in the useful space of the refrigerator. He must do this for himself on the refrigerator itself appropriate controls. Likewise, settings can only be made directly on the refrigerator.

In addition, it proves to be disadvantageous that stored in the receiving space refrigerated goods requires different storage conditions for optimal storage. The state of the art does not sufficiently meet this task. It is therefore not possible in the prior art to obtain information about the refrigerated goods as such and its state without having the refrigerated goods inspected by the user in the receiving space itself.

The invention has the object of developing a household refrigerator and a method for its operation to the effect that an improved storage of the refrigerated goods can be achieved.

The object is achieved by a method according to the independent claim 1 and a household refrigerator according to the further independent claim 12.

In particular, it is proposed with the invention on the method side that in a generic method as a physical parameter, a chilled product-specific parameter is detected with the sensor unit.

In contrast to the prior art, the invention therefore does not merely use the sensor unit to detect a physical parameter in the receiving space for the purpose of stationary setting, but-in contrast to this-to detect a physical parameter of the chilled goods. For this reason, a sensor-specific parameter is also detected by means of the sensor unit. On the basis of the detected chilled product-specific physical parameter, the control unit can then control or regulate storage parameters specifically suitable for the chilled goods, so that a particularly favorable or optimum storage of the chilled goods in the receiving space can be achieved. The chilled product-specific parameter may include, in addition to a temperature, for example, also a moisture, a local atmosphere, in particular directly on the chilled goods, and / or the like. In particular, it can be achieved that the operation of the household appliance is set to the respective refrigerated goods. As a result, not only the aging of the refrigerated goods can be favorably influenced, but it can also be saved energy, namely, for example, if a stored in the receiving space refrigerated goods only requires a comparatively low temperature reduction. At the same time, the invention makes it possible to store the refrigerated goods in a respective optimal climatic environment.

The refrigerated goods may be, for example, chemical and / or biochemical products, but in particular food. For example, the sensor unit may be designed to detect not only a temperature but also a humidity and / or further climatic data. This is advantageous, for example, perishable foods such as fruits, vegetables, such as salad, and / or the like, at which storage is desired not only at a desired low temperature, but often at a desired humidity to allow the longest possible storage with low aging. This is different, for example, the storage of packaged food, such as a milk carton, in which the physical parameter humidity for aging is essentially not relevant, as long as the milk carton is closed.

The household refrigerating appliance of the invention is also used, in particular, to be able to communicate with a user terminal. The user terminal is, for example, a mobile radio terminal, a PDA, a notebook, a tablet or the like, which can be brought into communication connection with the domestic refrigerator. The communication connection can be made for example by radio, infrared, ultrasound or the like, in local radio, for example, according to a protocol such as Bluetooth, ZigBee or the like. With the invention, it is possible that the user terminal receives the signal corresponding to the detected parameter and further processed, for example, brings to display. The user no longer needs to visit the location of the household refrigeration appliance in order to be informed about the desired refrigeration-specific parameter. The user therefore only needs to be within the communication range of the domestic refrigeration appliance in order to receive the signal transmitted to his user terminal, which he carries with him. In principle, it can of course also be provided in this way that a parameter to be set with regard to the value to be set is predetermined by means of the user terminal. In this way, it is possible, for example, that a temperature, a humidity, a pressure, a value for a gas composition, further climatic data and / or the like can be specified as the desired value by means of the user terminal. The control unit of the household refrigeration appliance can then control the desired parameter within the scope of a control function or adjust it to the predetermined desired value by initiating corresponding control operations.

The container of the household refrigerator usually includes side walls and a bottom and a top wall, wherein on one of the side walls, a door is hinged, with an opening of the container is closed to allow a user access to the receiving space with the door open. The walls and the door are usually provided with a thermal insulation material, which allows to bring the temperature in the receiving space with the lowest possible energy consumption to a temperature below an ambient temperature and to keep.

The household refrigerator may be, for example, a refrigerator, a freezer, a fridge-freezer, a freezer, a freezer or the like. The domestic refrigeration appliance preferably has facilities for its intended operation, by means of which the desired temperature, in particular below an ambient temperature, in the receiving space can be reached. For this purpose, the household refrigerating appliance comprises a cooling device, which generally comprises a refrigeration cycle with a coolant, by means of which, according to the heat pump principle, heat energy can be taken from the receiving space and released to the environment. For this purpose, the cooling device comprises, for example, an evaporator which is arranged in the receiving space, usually on a rear wall of the receiving space, a heat exchanger in contact outside the receiving space and with ambient air, and a compressor with which the coolant can be compressed. The coolant may be, for example, isobutane or R134a, with isobutane being preferred over R134a for environmental compatibility. The aforementioned components are a common cooling circuit forming interconnected via connecting lines corresponding to each other, so that a closed cooling circuit is formed.

The cooling device, that is, in the present case in particular the compressor, is controllable by means of the control unit. The control unit is preferably an electrical or electronic assembly, by means of which the compressor, which is usually also electrically driven, is supplied with electrical energy in an appropriate manner. For this purpose, the control unit is coupled in terms of communication technology or signal technology with the sensor unit, which records the chilled product-specific parameter which is to be set in the receiving space according to a desired value. The sensor unit supplies a signal corresponding to the detected parameter, which is preferably present as an electrical signal, to the control unit, which processes this signal and preferably provides a control signal or electrical energy for the operation of the compressor as part of a control. The control unit may also be designed to detect sensor units arranged outside the receiving space, provided that they are arranged in the communication range to the control unit. Preferably, such sensor units are also arranged outside the household refrigerator.

For the purpose of communication, the sensor unit has a transmitting unit which allows the signal to be transmitted wirelessly. This can be done, for example, by means of a communication medium such as radio, infrared, ultrasound and / or the like respectively. The control unit preferably has a corresponding receiving unit which is suitable for receiving the signal emitted by the transmitting unit of the sensor unit and converting it into an electrical signal which can then be processed by the control unit.

If the communication between the sensor unit and the control unit, for example by means of near-field radio and the walls of the receiving space are electrically conductive, it can be provided that at least the receiving unit is also arranged in the receiving space. In addition, it can of course be provided that at least one of the walls of the receiving space has a window for the communication medium at least partially permeable window, for example, in wireless a corresponding window of an electrically non-conductive material or the like. If the walls of the receiving space substantially do not interfere with the communication between the transmitting unit and the receiving unit, the receiving unit can also be arranged outside the receiving space. This can be provided, for example, if the transmission between the transmitting unit and the receiving unit is based on near-field radio and the walls of the receiving space are formed from plastic, in particular from an electrically non-conductive plastic.

The control unit may be formed as an electronic assembly, which is disposed within a housing of the household refrigerator, which also provides, for example, the container. In particular, the control unit can also comprise a computer unit which executes an executable computer program in order to be able to realize the desired control function. The control unit may be at least partially designed as a semiconductor chip, whereby a high degree of integration within the domestic refrigerator can be achieved. Moreover, it is possible to arrange the control unit in a region of the household refrigerating appliance which largely avoids heat input due to heat loss of the control unit in the receiving space. For example, the control unit may be arranged in a rear region behind a thermally insulating rear wall of the receiving space. An arrangement above the thermally insulated ceiling wall of the receiving space may be suitably selected as a position for the control unit.

In order to be able to transmit the signal from the household refrigerating appliance to the user terminal, provision can be made for the household refrigerating appliance, in particular its control unit, to have a corresponding transceiver unit which can communicate with a corresponding transceiver unit of the user terminal. Of course, it can also be provided that the signal of the transmitting unit of the sensor unit is transmitted directly to the user terminal. In this case, it is possible for the user terminal to receive and evaluate or display the signal of the transmitting unit of the sensor unit directly from the transmitting unit of the sensor unit. Further intervention by the control unit is not required in this case.

The sensor unit is presently wireless and has an internal power supply unit. The internal power supply unit can be, for example, a battery, in particular an accumulator, a Peltier element, but also a power supply circuit which, for example, receives electrical energy from a radio signal or another energy field, for example an alternating magnetic field, around the sensor unit and its transmission unit with electrical energy to be able to supply for the intended use. Of course, it can also be provided that the abovementioned units are provided with one another in the sensor unit, at least partially, in order to enable a reliable energy supply to the sensor unit and its transmission unit. For example, it can be provided that the sensor unit is designed as a transponder which only emits a signal corresponding to the detected parameter when the sensor unit receives a corresponding energy signal for activation. Thus, it can be provided that the control unit provides a corresponding energy pulse, for example a short-time alternating magnetic field, in order to supply the sensor unit with sufficient energy that it is currently able to detect the desired parameter and transmit a corresponding signal by means of the transmitting unit. As soon as the signal is sent out, the sensor unit returns to a waiting state for a next energy pulse. On the other hand, if the sensor unit is supplied by a battery, this can preferably be done by means of a battery which is suitable for long-term use. An energy field for powering the sensor unit then does not need to be provided. Preferably, the battery and the power consumption of the sensor unit are designed such that during the normal operation of the household refrigerator over the predicted lifetime no replacement of the battery is required. Such batteries are, for example, lithium-based batteries or the like. Of course, these configurations can also be combined with each other.

The chilled product-specific parameter may be a physical parameter of the receiving space, preferably in the region, particularly preferably in the immediate vicinity or directly on the chilled goods, such as, for example, an air temperature Humidity, air pressure, combinations thereof or the like.

The signal may be an analog signal, but also a digital signal or a combination thereof. If the signal is a digital signal, it is preferably a binary-coded signal which uses a suitable coding accordingly. Such coding is for example a BCD coding, a Manchester coding and / or the like.

If a plurality of sensor units of the aforementioned type are provided, it can be provided that they send their signals corresponding to the respective parameters in the time and / or frequency multiplex by means of their respective transmission unit. Of course, it can also be provided that, alternatively or additionally, a broadband transmission method is used which, on the basis of a respective identifier of the respective sensor unit, enables the detection of the different transmitted signals. In addition, of course, there is the possibility that the control unit emits a respective energy pulse or an activation signal with an individual identification for a respective transmission unit. The sensor units are each provided with a corresponding individual identification which is uniquely assigned to them. This makes it possible to activate by means of the control unit, a respective sensor unit individually. Only the sensor unit, the identification of which is contained in the activation signal or in the energy pulse, sends out the parameter correspondingly detected by it in the form of a signal to the control unit. Of course, it can also be provided that the sensor unit emits its respective signal according to a predetermined time delay after activation by the activation signal or the energy pulse of the control unit. This also makes it possible to achieve suppression of the signals emitted by the sensor units.

However, a chiller-specific parameter can be a gas composition in addition to temperature, humidity and pressure. This is advantageous, for example, if a perishable item to be refrigerated, such as vegetables or fruit, for example, is stored in the receiving space. For example, a concentration of acetylene is an indication of the condition of the respective vegetable or fruit. From this information can be obtained, which can be used for a favorable process management for operating the household appliance. For example, it can be provided that the control unit receives information about the food or the respective refrigerated product-specific parameters from the sensor unit and accordingly carries out a control or regulation of the cooling device of the household refrigerating appliance.

Overall, the invention allows refrigerated goods, in particular food, to be stored more specifically and optimally cooled so that a better quality or a longer storage time or a lower aging can be achieved.

It is further proposed that the physical parameter that the sensor unit should detect is set on the sensor unit. This makes it possible to use the sensor unit universally for different refrigerated goods or classes of refrigerated goods. Depending on the type of goods to be cooled, a chiller-specific parameter can be set specifically at the sensor unit in order to be able to record a parameter that is as meaningful as possible for the respective chilled goods. This can increase the flexibility. In addition, it is possible to provide the sensor unit as a standard component and, for example by means of programming, to be able to set or use it for the desired specific detection of the chiller-specific parameter.

In addition, it can be provided that the sensor unit is designed according to the physical parameter to be detected. In this case, provision may be made for sensor units to be prefabricated or provided in accordance with the types of refrigerated goods to be stored. Depending on the type of refrigerated goods, the corresponding sensor unit is selected. As a result, a simple adaptation of the sensor unit to the goods to be cooled can be achieved.

According to a further embodiment, it is proposed that the sensor unit is arranged in the region of the item to be cooled, in particular directly on the item to be cooled, whose product parameter is to be detected. As a result, the chilled product-specific parameter can be detected as accurately as possible with a low tolerance with respect to the respective chilled goods. Interference can be reduced or even avoided. For example, it can be provided that the sensor unit is connected directly to the refrigerated goods. This can be realized in that the sensor unit is connected to the item to be cooled by means of a clip, by means of an adhesive connection and / or by means of another mechanical connection.

It proves to be particularly advantageous if the sensor unit automatically detects a type of refrigerated goods and transmits them to the control unit and / or a user terminal. This has the advantage that an assignment of a suitable sensor unit to a respective genus of Refrigerated good is not required. The sensor unit detects the type of refrigerated goods, transmits them wirelessly to the control unit, which detects these data and adjusts the control of the cooling device accordingly. For example, this can be done using stored databases or the like, which can be accessed by the control unit. In addition, it can be provided that the control unit can access a communication network, in particular the Internet, in order to be able to obtain suitable data which can serve for the suitable control of the cooling device. In addition, of course, there is the possibility that the sensor unit transmits the automatic detection of the genre not only to the control unit but also to a user terminal. It may also be provided only the transmission to the user terminal. The user terminal can - as well as the control unit - be adapted to transmit corresponding control information to the control unit, which then controls or regulates the cooling device accordingly. In addition, there is the possibility that a user of the terminal additionally transmits control data to the control unit, which can then be taken into account in addition to the control of the cooling device or its control.

It also proves advantageous if the control unit specifies the storage condition to be set according to the type of goods to be chilled. The control unit can thus cause the storage condition for the refrigerated goods to be set as optimally as possible so that storage is made possible in which the refrigerated goods age as little as possible or can provide its useful optimum state as intended when used as directly as possible.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the sensor unit is adjusted by means of the control unit or the user terminal for a physical parameter to be detected. In this embodiment, the sensor unit is also designed adjustable. However, it receives from the user terminal or from the control unit a corresponding control signal which sets the sensor unit for the physical parameter to be detected. This makes it possible to produce the sensor unit as a modular unit, which can be attached to the respective refrigerated goods or in the vicinity, and then, for example, in retrospect, for the desired physical parameters, which corresponds to the respective refrigeration-specific parameters set. This can also be achieved, for example, by means of the user terminal, wherein, for example, the sensor unit is previously secured to a storage item to be stored in the receiving space and then set with the user terminal of the physical parameter corresponding to the chiller-specific parameter. This allows a high flexibility and ease of use can be achieved.

It also proves to be advantageous if the control unit determines an aging state of the refrigerated goods. The control unit can then provide information that may be relevant to the further use of the refrigerated goods. For example, this may be a depravity status for a food. In addition, however, it may also be an expiration date or the like. If the expiration date is exceeded, it can be provided that the control unit outputs a message, for example by means of an output unit of the household refrigerator and / or in the form of a signal, which is transmitted to the user terminal. The corresponding refrigerated goods can also be marked for removal from the receiving space. For this purpose it can be provided that the sensor unit is adjusted accordingly by means of a signal. When accessing the receiving space by the user can then be provided that by means of a display unit of the household refrigerator the refrigerated goods is marked or marked as a refrigerated goods to be removed, so that the user recognizes the refrigerated goods to be removed and removed from the receiving space.

According to a further development, it is proposed that the control unit determines an occupancy of the receiving space by the refrigerated goods, in particular a quantity of the refrigerated goods stored in the receiving space. As a result, information about further storage options of refrigerated goods in the receiving space can be achieved.

For displaying or outputting an occupancy state which characterizes an occupancy of the receiving space, for example, the display unit or output device of the household refrigeration appliance can be used. In addition, of course, there is the possibility to transmit corresponding data to the user terminal, so that the user receives in this regard directly on his user terminal the appropriate information. For example, the user can thereby determine which refrigerated goods are present in which quantity in the receiving space in order to be able to reasonably or better plan the further procurement of refrigerated goods. The detection of the occupancy of the receiving space can be done by means of optical, acoustic, printing technology and / or similar sensor elements. Preferably, a position of the sensor unit or of the refrigerated goods coupled to the sensor unit can be determined. In particular, the determined position can be transmitted to the user terminal. In addition, it can be provided that by means of a optical pointing device when opening the door in the receiving space a selected by the user chilled goods is visually recognizable. For example, it can be provided for this purpose that, when the door is opened to the receiving space, a light beam is directed onto the goods to be cooled, so that the user can immediately recognize the position of the selected item of refrigerated goods. The selection of the item to be cooled can take place by means of the user terminal or else an input unit connected to the control unit.

It proves to be particularly advantageous if a first and a second different refrigerated goods are stored in the receiving space with respect to the type and the control unit checks whether a conflict exists with regard to the storage condition to be set. This makes it possible to detect whether there can be conflicts with regard to the storage conditions in refrigerated goods of different types stored in the receiving space. For example, such a conflict may exist if a refrigerated goods should be stored as dry as possible in the receiving space, whereas a second refrigerated goods of a different genus should be stored with a predetermined humidity, as may occur, for example, in the storage of vegetables. In this case, the control unit may check the storage condition for the existence of a conflict. For example, then a message can be output that can be displayed or output by means of the output device or display unit of the household refrigerator. In addition, of course, it is possible to effect a corresponding information or output on the user terminal. This informs the user of the existence of the conflict. He can then intervene, for example by means of a manual input, to resolve the conflict. The input can be carried out by means of the user terminal and / or also by means of an input unit which is connected to the control unit.

It proves to be advantageous if, in the presence of a conflict, the control unit determines the storage condition to be set on the basis of an evaluation scheme and / or pretends on the basis of a signal of the user terminal. As a result, the conflict can be resolved so that a storage condition is created for the refrigerated goods stored in the receiving space, which can largely meet the refrigerated goods stored in the receiving space of different genera. For example, it can be provided for this purpose that the evaluation scheme provides, when packaged foodstuffs are stored in the receiving space together with salad, that the storage condition is determined by the salad. By packaging the food they are less susceptible to deviations from their optimal corresponding storage condition, so that the storage condition can be set preferably for salad. In addition, it can of course be provided that with respect to the storage condition, a compromise is set, for example, in terms of temperature, for example, when wine is to be stored together with meat in the receiving space as food. For meat, for example, the optimal storage temperature would be 2 degrees, whereas the wine should preferably be stored at 8 degrees. In this case, the evaluation scheme may provide that the storage temperature be set at 5 degrees so that the control unit controls the cooling device accordingly. Although this deviates from the optimum storage condition for both refrigerated goods, a storage condition for both refrigerated goods is made possible by the evaluation scheme, which deviates as little as possible from the optimum storage condition. For this purpose, the control unit preferably has a database or it is possible for the control unit to access such a database via a communication network, by means of which a corresponding evaluation scheme can be provided. The evaluation scheme can be formed by a table and / or also by an algorithm.

In the case of a generic domestic appliance, in order to achieve the object, it is proposed, in particular, that the sensor unit is designed to detect a parameter specific to the refrigerated product as the physical parameter. This makes it possible to achieve the advantages already mentioned above with regard to the method.

According to a further advantageous embodiment with respect to the domestic refrigerator, it is proposed that the sensor unit is movable relative to the container. The mobility can be ensured, for example, that the sensor unit is attached to a container such as a drawer or the like in the receiving space, wherein the drawer or the container is movably disposed in the receiving space. In addition, of course, it can also be provided that the sensor unit is releasably, in particular non-destructively releasably, arranged in the receiving space or on the container that provides the receiving space. As a result, the sensor unit can be removed from a present position in the receiving space and fixed again at another position in the receiving space. As a result, the detection of the storage condition can be further improved. In particular, this makes it possible to be able to control the receiving space according to individual requirements of the user with regard to the storage condition of the item to be cooled. Namely, it can be provided in a particularly advantageous manner that the user himself determines the position of the sensor unit in the receiving space, preferably with regard to the individual use desired by him, preferably in relation to the refrigerated goods.

Furthermore, it proves to be particularly advantageous if the sensor unit is detachably, in particular non-destructively detachable, arranged on a wall of the container. This embodiment makes it possible to arrange the sensor unit by the user or by maintenance personnel at an individual desired location in the receiving space.

According to a further embodiment, it is proposed that the sensor unit is detachably, in particular non-destructively detachable, arranged on the refrigerated goods. This can be realized, for example, in that the sensor unit is attached directly to the item to be cooled, for example by means of an adhesive strip, a clip, and / or the like. In addition, it can be provided that the sensor unit has a contact element or a contact pin which is inserted into the refrigerated goods. By means of the contact pin or the contact element, moreover, the type of goods to be cooled and / or a depravity status of the goods to be cooled can be determined if this part of a sensor element.

Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. All the features and feature combinations mentioned above in the description and the features and feature combinations mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respectively indicated combination but also in other combinations or alone, without the frame to leave the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed, which are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, however, emerge and can be produced by separated combinations of features from the embodiments explained.

The embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to schematic drawings. In the figures, like reference characters designate like functions and features.

Show it:

1 in a schematic perspective view of a refrigerator-freezer combination as a household refrigerator according to the invention,

2 a schematic block diagram representation of a sensor unit according to the invention,

3 in a schematic block diagram representation of the household refrigerator according to 1 in communication with a user's mobile station by means of a repeater,

4 in a schematic view of the sensor element according to 2 with an adhesive strip as a fastener and

5 in a schematic block diagram representation of another embodiment of a sensor unit according to the invention, which can be connected non-destructively releasably connected to a refrigerated goods.

1 shows a schematic representation of a fridge-freezer combination as household refrigeration appliance 1 in a perspective view. The fridge-freezer 1 has a container 19 which in turn has sidewalls 2 . 9 as well as a back wall 3 having, which are interconnected and together with a non-designated ceiling wall and a non-designated bottom wall a receiving space 4 for a cooling area 12 as well as a recording room 5 for a freezer area 13 form. The recording rooms 4 and 5 are separated by a non-designated intermediate wall of each other thermally insulated. In that sense, the container 19 Part of a non-illustrated housing of the fridge-freezer 1 ,

At the front end of the sidewall 9 are each doors 6 . 7 for the cooling area 12 as well as for the freezer area 13 hinged separately. The walls as well as the doors 6 . 7 are provided in unspecified manner with a thermal insulation material to the receiving spaces 4 . 5 to thermally isolate from the environment. In the following, the invention is based on the cooling area 12 with reference to the recording room 4 further explained. Accordingly, the invention can also be applied to the freezer area 13 with the recording room 5 be applied. For ease of illustration, a detailed description of a corresponding embodiment with respect to the receiving space will be given 5 apart.

1 shows that in the recording room 4 shelves 8th as well as vegetable dishes 11 are arranged. The shelves 8th are presently stationary, whereas the vegetable dishes 11 are designed as drawers. The vegetable dishes 11 are covered here by means of an unmarked cover. The recording room 4 is thus part of the cooling area 12 the fridge-freezer 1 ,

Above the recording room 4 , above the ceiling wall of the receiving space 4 , is in the container 19 an electronic control unit 17 arranged. The control unit 17 is in an unspecified manner with electrical energy supplied to a public power grid. The control unit 17 serves to control a cooling device 20 partially in the foot area of the fridge-freezer 1 is arranged. The cooling device 20 includes components not shown, such as a compressor, an evaporator and a heat exchanger, which communicate with each other via pipes also not shown fluidly. In the cooling device, a likewise not shown coolant is also arranged, in this case isobutane. By means of the compressor, the coolant is driven in a predetermined manner by the heat exchanger and the evaporator, in order to heat energy from the receiving space 4 dissipate and give off to ambient air. The compressor is driven for this purpose by means of an electric motor provided by the control unit 17 is controlled.

Out 1 It can also be seen that the control unit 17 via a local radio link, in this case in accordance with the Bluetooth standard, with a mobile radio terminal 26 a user is in communication connection. The mobile terminal 26 comprises a transceiver unit 28 connected to a computer unit 27 connected. To the computer unit 27 is also a display unit 29 connected. With the mobile terminal 26 it is possible for the user, data or signals of the control unit 17 to receive, process and in a user-friendly manner on the display unit 29 issue. At the same time, data and signals can also be sent to the control unit 17 be transmitted, for example, control commands, data for the intended operation of the fridge-freezer 1 and / or the like.

In the recording room 4 are according to 1 sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 arranged, which are formed wirelessly and also via a radio link with the control unit 17 in communication. In the present case is the sensor unit 15 a TOC sensor unit located in a gutter 14 on the back wall 3 above the cover of the vegetable bowls 11 is arranged. The sensor unit 16 is a temperature sensor unit. The sensor unit 18 is a moisture sensor unit, which in this case at one of the two drawers 11 is attached.

The sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 are in terms of their schematic structure based on 2 shown in more detail. Each of the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 has a transceiver unit 22 on that with an evaluation unit 24 is coupled. The transceiver unit 22 is further to a rectifying unit 23 connected, by means of the received energy from electrical energy can be obtained and provided. This energy can be in a battery 21 also from the respective sensor unit 15 . 16 . 18 is included, to the intended operation of the sensor unit 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 to be able to guarantee. The sensor unit 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 further comprises a sensor element 25 , which is designed to be able to detect the parameters to be detected by it in the intended manner. The sensor element 25 is also to the evaluation unit 24 connected.

In the present case it is provided that each of the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 has an individual identification. The control unit 27 knows this the respective sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 associated identifications. Accordingly, the control unit sends 17 an activation signal with the respective identification, whereupon the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 receive this signal and check whether the identification contained therein corresponds to their identification. Only if the test is positive, the corresponding sensor unit 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 detect by means of its sensor element the desired parameter, by means of the evaluation unit 24 evaluate and emit a corresponding, the parameter associated signal by means of the transceiver unit. The control unit 17 receives the transmitted signal, evaluates it and initiates further actions if necessary.

3 shows a schematic representation of the communication link between the control unit 17 and the mobile station 26 of the user. How out 3 is apparent, is a repeater 30 provided, the present in the vicinity of the control unit 17 in the container 19 the fridge-freezer 1 is arranged. The present is the repeater 30 arranged such that it with respect to the communication link to the mobile station 26 a favorable position on the housing 19 Has. The repeater 30 is also in wireless communication with the control unit 17 for what purpose the control unit 17 a transceiver unit 32 having. The transceiver unit 32 is to a computer unit 33 the control unit 17 connected. Also to the computer unit 33 connected is a transceiver unit 31 in the recording room 4 the fridge-freezer 1 is directed. The transceiver unit 31 serves to provide a radio link to the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 inside the recording room 4 manufacture.

4 shows a schematic representation of the sensor unit 18 , which at one of their surfaces an adhesive strip 34 having. By means of the adhesive strip 34 is the sensor unit 18 inside the vegetable bowl 11 attached ( 1 ). It is thus non-destructively detachable with the vegetable dish 11 connected.

The application of wireless zero-power sensor (ZPS) or battery-powered sensor elements or sensor units allows data acquisition and / or transmission to a device electronics of household refrigeration appliance with preferably stored software parameters, thereby controlling and controlling the household refrigerator itself or at any terminal such For example, a user terminal, can be achieved. Due to the high flexibility of the arrangement of the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 There are new fields of application and usage options compared to wiring sensors. In particular, the invention makes it possible to achieve an improvement in efficiency with regard to the operation of the device by using additional parameters which, for example, characterize a state and thus indirectly also the efficiency of a current operation.

With the invention it is possible to use the sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 . 38 Also to install in places that were previously difficult to access and allow optimization of the efficiency of the operation of the household refrigerator.

For example, a temperature sensor unit in the refrigerator compartment, in the freezer or in a special subject can be detected immediately. Applications exist, for example, directly in a TCD area, where an airtight storage and easy removal of the TCD shell are possible.

With respect to an air humidity sensor unit or a dew point sensor unit, an automatic adaptation can be achieved depending on the target moisture value or desired moisture value. In this case, it is possible for the target moisture value specified by the customer in airtight storage compartments or bearing shells to be determined within a shell without an additional moisture loss from the outside as a result of introduction of a sensor element. For example, by automatically opening ventilation openings, the air humidity can be adjusted when a target value is exceeded.

In addition, a condensate avoidance or a condensate identification can be achieved. For example, an internal condensation can be determined, after which a control for a fan run or a shift of a defrost phase can be intervened. This can be done by attaching the corresponding sensor unit in the respective critical series or region.

In addition, a dew point sensor unit or a water sensor unit may be provided by means of which defrosting of the domestic refrigeration appliance can be predetermined or controlled. For example, an overflow of an evaporation tray can thus be detected. In addition, it is possible to analyze a level and switch on heating elements as needed. This application is particularly suitable for critical devices, especially special climatic regions and / or the like.

By means of a biofilm sensor unit, in particular a TOC sensor unit, it is possible to achieve a functional guarantee of an Abtaurinne or gutter or an evaporation tray. In this way, an indirect biofilm indication can be achieved, for example, via ZPS for electrical conductance measurement or change in a TOC value in the water. As a result, a cleaning indication and / or avoidance of odor problems can be achieved. Furthermore, a water return to the household refrigerator and an overflow of an evaporation tray can be detected.

With the invention it is also possible, using a pressure sensor unit perform refrigerant pressure measurements in the refrigerant circuit. The additional knowledge of a pressure in the coolant circuit in addition to temperature parameters such as ambient temperature, compartment temperature and / or surface temperature of a heat exchanger surface, can be used for an optimized control of the compressor. In this case, the rotational speed of the compressor can either be determined on the basis of a table as a function of significant parameters and continuously adjusted or the rotational speed can be determined automatically by means of a suitable algorithm, for example by the computer unit. This also makes it possible to detect malfunctions in the intended operation early on. In contrast to the prior art, the compressor is therefore no longer operated according to a two-point control, but according to a three- or multi-point control or a continuous control.

For example, the pressure in the refrigerant circuit in the region of the evaporator, preferably as evaporator pressure, can be determined by means of the pressure sensor unit. A pressure drop indicates a deterioration of the heat transfer, from which information about a demand-dependent defrost can be achieved.

Furthermore, in the case of no-frost devices, the optimal defrosting time can be determined by the time profile of a detected pressure in the coolant circuit. In addition, to determine the optimum speed of the compressor air-side pressure measurements in the receiving space 4 be taken into account in no-frost devices. The determination of the pressure loss across the evaporator may serve to indirectly detect an ice volume above the evaporator and an optimal defrost time.

Out 1 is also apparent that in the recording room 4 an Apple 39 as well as a banana 40 on the unspecified lid of vegetable peel 11 are stored as refrigerated goods. In the door 6 is also in a receptacle a beverage package 37 stored as refrigerated goods.

The beverage packaging is with the sensor unit 35 whereas at the banana 40 the sensor unit 36 is arranged. At the apple 39 is the sensor unit 38 arranged.

The sensor units 35 and 36 are each non-destructive solvable on the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 arranged. In the present case, these are sensor units which are specifically designed for the respective item to be cooled, that is to say are designed to be fixedly adapted to the respective parameter specific to the item to be chilled. That's the sensor unit 35 designed for capturing a temperature that attaches to the surface of the beverage packaging 37 established. This will be wireless to the control unit 17 transmitted. At the sensor unit 36 is provided that this is a sensor element 22 which is designed for the detection of acetylene. This can cause an aging condition of the banana 40 be recorded. A corresponding signal is sent from the sensor unit 36 wirelessly to the control unit 17 transmitted. The sensor units 35 and 36 are specifically selected by the user and at the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 attached. In the present case, it is provided that the sensor units 35 . 36 each with an adhesive strip 18 are provided, by means of which they are non-destructively releasable on the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 are attached as it is based on 4 in relation to the sensor unit 18 is explained. So that the user of the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 assigned sensor unit 35 . 36 in a simple way assigns correctly and at the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 attached, they are provided with a color coding, which makes it easier for the user, the correct assignment of the respective sensor unit 35 . 36 to the respective refrigerated goods 37 . 40 make. In addition, of course, there is the possibility of the sensor units 35 . 36 provided with a respective label, so that the user recognizes a unique assignment and the respective sensor unit 35 . 36 at the refrigerated goods 37 . 40 can attach.

Of the aforementioned sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 the sensor unit differs 38 that at the apple 39 is attached. A schematic block diagram representation with respect to the structure of the sensor unit 38 is in 5 shown. The sensor unit 38 according to 5 is different from the other sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 according to 2 in that they complement a computer unit 42 having. In addition, the sensor element 25 with a contact pin 41 made of silver or stainless steel or the like. The other units of the sensor unit 38 according to the units, as already stated by 4 have been explained, which is why reference is additionally made to these statements. In the present case is the contact pin 41 in the apple 39 plugged in and with the apple 39 electrochemically in contact. At the same time the contact pin causes 41 a fastening function, by means of which the sensor unit 38 at the apple 39 is attached. The sensor element 25 is - as with the sensor units according to 4 - to the evaluation unit 24 connected. In contrast to the sensor units according to 4 is the evaluation unit 24 but here in addition to the computer unit 42 connected in turn to the transceiver unit 22 connected. This makes it possible to provide a detection function that allows the sensor unit 38 allowed, the genus of refrigerated goods, here the apple 39 to detect and to the control unit 17 or at the same time also to the user terminal 26 to convey. The control unit 17 recognizes that the sensor unit 38 on an apple, namely the apple 39 , is attached. Accordingly, by means of the control unit 17 the sensor unit 38 set to a suitable physical parameter to be detected, in this case the detection of moisture. The sensor unit 38 differs from the other, aforementioned sensor units 15 . 16 . 18 . 35 . 36 in that, in contrast to the aforementioned sensor units, it is programmable. Incidentally, this programming can also be performed by the user terminal 26 be made.

With the of the sensor unit 38 supplied signals it is the control unit 17 possible, the aging state of the apple 39 determine and output a corresponding signal, for example by means of a display unit not further described, the front side on a ceiling wall of the container 19 is arranged readable for a user. The control unit 17 However, in the present case, it is also designed to transmit the corresponding signal to the user terminal 26 to convey. This gives the user information about the aging status of the apple 39 even if he is not in the field of fridge-freezers 1 located.

Of course, these features can also be used in any combination with each other to realize the invention.

The above-described embodiment is merely illustrative of the invention and is not limitative of it. Thus, of course, functions, in particular electronic components and the control unit and the sensor unit, as desired be designed without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The advantages and features and embodiments described for the domestic refrigerator according to the invention equally apply to a method with which the invention can be realized. Consequently, according to the device features also process features can be provided.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 Freezer

2

 Side wall

3

 rear wall

4

 accommodation space

5

 accommodation space

6

 door

7

 door

8th

 Fold bottom

9

 Side wall

10

 holder

11

 vegetable dish

12

 cooling area

13

 freezing range

14

 gutter

15

 TOC sensor unit

16

 Temperature sensor unit

17

 control unit

18

 Humidity sensor unit

19

 container

20

 cooler

21

 battery

22

 Transceiver unit

23

 Rectifying unit

24

 evaluation

25

 sensor element

26

 mobile radio terminal

27

 computer unit

28

 Transceiver unit

29

 display unit

30

 Wireless station

31

 Transceiver unit

32

 Transceiver unit

33

 computer unit

34

 tape

35

 sensor unit

36

 sensor unit

37

 beverage packaging

38

 sensor unit

39

 Apple

40

 banana

41

 pin

42

 computer unit

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• CH 704020 A2 [0002, 0003]

Claims (15)

Method for operating a household refrigerating appliance ( 1 ) with a container ( 19 ), which has a thermally insulated receiving space ( 4 . 5 ) for refrigerated goods, with a control unit ( 17 ) and with a cooling device ( 20 ), which by means of the control unit ( 17 ) is controlled, wherein by means of the cooling device ( 20 ) a predefinable storage condition for storing the refrigerated goods in the receiving space ( 4 . 5 ), wherein by means of at least one in the receiving space ( 4 . 5 ) arranged sensor unit ( 15 . 16 . 18 ) at least one physical parameter of the domestic refrigeration appliance ( 1 ), the sensor unit ( 15 . 16 . 18 ) by means of an internal power supply unit ( 21 ) is supplied with energy for its intended operation and a signal corresponding to the detected parameter to the control unit ( 17 ) transmitted wirelessly, characterized in that a refrigeration-specific parameter is detected with the sensor unit as a physical parameter. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the physical parameter to be detected by the sensor unit, is set at the sensor unit. A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor unit is selected according to the physical parameter to be detected. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor unit in the region of the goods to be cooled, in particular directly on the refrigerated goods whose Kühlgutspezifischer parameter is to be detected, is arranged. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor unit automatically detects a genus of the refrigerated goods and transmitted to the control unit and / or a user terminal. A method according to claim 5, characterized in that the control unit dictates the storage condition to be set according to the type of refrigerated goods. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor unit is adjusted by means of the control unit or the user terminal for a physical parameter to be detected. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit determines an aging state of the refrigerated goods. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit determines an occupancy of the receiving space by the refrigerated goods, in particular a stored in the receiving space amount of the refrigerated goods. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the receiving space, a first and a second relative to the genus of the first different refrigerated goods is stored and the control unit checks whether there is a conflict regarding the storage condition to be set. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that the control unit determined in the presence of a conflict, the storage condition to be set taking into account a rating scheme and / or pretending based on a signal of the user terminal. Household refrigeration appliance ( 1 ) with a container ( 19 ), which has a thermally insulated receiving space ( 4 . 5 ) for refrigerated goods, in particular foodstuffs, with a control unit ( 17 ) and with one by means of the control unit ( 17 ) controllable cooling device ( 20 ), wherein by means of the cooling device ( 20 ) a predeterminable temperature in the receiving space ( 4 . 5 ) is adjustable, wherein in the receiving space ( 4 . 5 ) at least one sensor unit ( 15 . 16 . 18 ) for detecting at least one physical parameter of the household refrigerator ( 1 ), wherein the sensor unit ( 15 . 16 . 18 ) an internal power supply unit ( 21 ) and is designed, a corresponding to the detected parameter signal to the control unit ( 17 ) to transmit wirelessly, characterized in that the sensor unit is designed to detect as a physical parameter a chilled product-specific parameters. Domestic refrigerating appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that the sensor unit ( 15 . 16 . 18 ) is movable relative to the container. Domestic refrigerating appliance according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the sensor unit is detachably arranged on a wall of the container. Domestic refrigerating appliance according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the sensor unit is detachably arranged on the refrigerated goods.

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