EP0392521A2 - Refrigerating device and method for controlling its operation - Google Patents
Refrigerating device and method for controlling its operation Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0392521A2 EP0392521A2 EP90106983A EP90106983A EP0392521A2 EP 0392521 A2 EP0392521 A2 EP 0392521A2 EP 90106983 A EP90106983 A EP 90106983A EP 90106983 A EP90106983 A EP 90106983A EP 0392521 A2 EP0392521 A2 EP 0392521A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- fact
- refrigerating device
- block
- improved refrigerating
- compartment
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000011664 signaling Effects 0.000 claims 4
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000005662 electromechanics Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 16
- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 description 11
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036039 immunity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006386 memory function Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D29/00—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D11/00—Self-contained movable devices, e.g. domestic refrigerators
- F25D11/02—Self-contained movable devices, e.g. domestic refrigerators with cooling compartments at different temperatures
- F25D11/022—Self-contained movable devices, e.g. domestic refrigerators with cooling compartments at different temperatures with two or more evaporators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B2500/00—Problems to be solved
- F25B2500/31—Low ambient temperatures
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B2600/00—Control issues
- F25B2600/02—Compressor control
- F25B2600/025—Compressor control by controlling speed
- F25B2600/0251—Compressor control by controlling speed with on-off operation
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
- F25B2700/00—Sensing or detecting of parameters; Sensors therefor
- F25B2700/21—Temperatures
- F25B2700/2117—Temperatures of an evaporator
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D2400/00—General features of, or devices for refrigerators, cold rooms, ice-boxes, or for cooling or freezing apparatus not covered by any other subclass
- F25D2400/04—Refrigerators with a horizontal mullion
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D2400/00—General features of, or devices for refrigerators, cold rooms, ice-boxes, or for cooling or freezing apparatus not covered by any other subclass
- F25D2400/30—Quick freezing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D2700/00—Means for sensing or measuring; Sensors therefor
- F25D2700/14—Sensors measuring the temperature outside the refrigerator or freezer
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a refrigerating device comprising two compartments and precisely a first compartment used for the storage of fresh food and a second compartment used for the freezing and storing of foods, a refrigerating circuit comprising a compressor, a first and a second evaporators arranged in said first and second compartments, respectively, and a condenser, and also comprising a temperature control system, having manual regulation possibility, located in said first compartment.
- Refrigerating devices of the above mentioned type are known; they represent probablythe most widespread type of domestic refrigerators.
- the two evaporators located respectively in the first compartment (fresh food compartment or 'refrigerator') and in the second compartment ('freezer'), are arranged in series on the same refrigerating circuit, driven, for costs reasons, by one compressor only.
- the freezer compartment is practically 'towed' by the fresh food compartment (normally called 'refrigerator' compartment), the two evaporators being in series between themselves, and the thermostatic control being done with reference to the 'refrigerator' compartment only.
- thermostatic control is done by means of a normal electromechanical thermostat just placed into the refrigerator compartment, equipped with a knob for the manual setting of the desired temperature, within certain limits.
- the Italian patent application nr. 21201-A/79 describes a refrigerating device of the above cited type, where two sensor are provided in the fresh food compartment: one in air and the other on the plate of the evaporator; the control system comprises a thermostatic system of electronic type and the compressor is enabled when the plate of the evaporator reaches the temperature of +4°; the compressor is then disabled when the air probe detects that the temperature is fallen to the value manually input by the user.
- Said patent has the aim of overfreezing foods placed in the 'freezer' compartment.
- the restaurant patent application nr. 68230-A/80 also describes a refrigerating device of the above cited type, similar to the one described in the previous patent application, which provides, besides the usual thermostat, a thermistor placed in the fresh food compartment, in the point where the air is lower; when the compressor must operate for a long time, to fastly freeze the food, the thermistor commutates the output of the comparator, which acts on the circuit of the thermostat and switches off the compressor in order to impede that in the other compartment the temperature falls below zero degree.
- the known systems have many drawbacks, first of all that, into very cold rooms, the compressor remains disabled for long time intervals and the temperature of the 'freezer' compartment reaches dangerous values for the storing of the food therein contained.
- Aim of the present invention is to indicate how it is possible to realize a refrigerating device which can correctly operate at different room temperatures, which allows manufacturing uniformity, reliability in use and a reduced cost.
- the aim of the present invention is to indicate a refrigerating device comprising two compartments and precisely a first compartment used for the storage of fresh food and a second compartment used for the freezing and storing of foods, a refrigerating circuit comprising a compressor, a first and a second evaporators arranged in said first and second compartments, respectively, and a condenser, and also comprising a temperature control system, having manual regulation possibility, located in said first compartment, characterized by the fact that automatic regulation means are provided, which operate on the basis of the room temperature so assuring the correct operation in both said two compartments.
- number 1 indicates an electric fan
- number 2 indicates the evaporator of the 'freezer' compartment
- number 3 indicates a defrost heater located in the 'freezer' compartment
- number 5 indicates the operation control device of the refrigerating device
- number 4 indicates a knob for the regulation of the temperature (monoturn rotative linear potentiometer) which is part of said device
- number 6 indicates a luminous warning light (LED) placed on said device
- number 7 indicates a manual push (fast freezing) also located on said device
- number 8 indicates the temperature probe of the evaporator of the 'refrigerator' compartment, connected to said device 5
- number 9 indicates the air temperature probe of the same compartment, connected to the same device 5, and at last number 10 indicates the refrigerating fluid compressor.
- the control device 5 consists of a plastic material casing, containing an integrated circuit, on which there are mounted in a known way, a certain number of components; among them there is comprised an integrated circuit of the semi-custom type, which is responsible for actuating the main control functions, and which will be described in more detail with reference to figure 2.
- the dimensions of the casing of the device 5 are limited and are practically equivalent to those of a normal electromechanical thermostat.
- Compressor 10 and the evaporators of the freezer and refrigerating compartments are over sized, in order to satisfy the refrigerating needs of the respective compartments even in tropical climates.
- the central rectangle (R) represents the semi-custom integrated circuit above cited; all around there are represented the accessory components connected to it.
- symbol B indicates the block generating system time base;
- T indicates the block performing the thermostatic control function (described in detail with reference to figure 3);
- symbol F indicates the block performing the control function of the operating ratio (described in detail with reference to figure 6);
- symbol S1 indicates the block performing the defrost function of the 'freezer' compartment (described in detail with reference to figure 5);
- symbol S2 indicates the block performing the defrost function of the 'refrigerator' compartment, which is similar to block S1;
- symbol A indicates the block performing the autotest function, which is realized all the times that the refrigerating device is switched on; at last symbol G indicates the block performing the loads handling function.
- the two temperature probes 11 and 14 are each connected in a bridge circuit, including a tension comparator (01,02) whose output is connected respectively to the block T for the probe 11 and to the block S2 for the probe 14.
- Loads MC, 15, 17 and 18 are connected to the block G, which controls them.
- the block 20 represents the start of the flowchart; the block 20 transmits the control to block 21, which is a test block to verify that there is at the moment a cold request (or that the temperature detected by the probe 11 is higher than the one input through the knob 4); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 27, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 22.
- Block 22 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disactived; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 23, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 24.
- Block 23 increases the count of the disactive compressor time and then transmits again the control to block 21;
- block 24 is a test block to verify that the active compressor time is equal to or higher than 8 minutes; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 25, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back to block 21.
- Block 25 disables the compressor and transmits the control to block 26; block 26 resets the active compressor time and returns the control to block 21.
- Block 27 is a test block to verify that the compressor is active; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 28, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 29.
- Block 28 increases the count of the active compressor time, and returns the control to block 21.
- Block 29 is a test block to verify that the disactive compressor time is equal to or higher than 8 minutes; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 30, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back to block 21.
- Block 30 activates the compressor and trasmits the control to the subsequent block 31, which in his turn, resets the count of the disactive compressor time and returns the control to block 21.
- the imposition of an 8 minutes minimum time of activation-disactivation of the compressor has the aim to prevent stability problems, due to electric inteferences, realizing the hysteresis function which is normally obtained by the voltage comparator. It is so obtained a reduction of the number of components associated to the voltage comparator 01 (fig. 2), as the wired hysteresis (positive feedback) is no longer necessary, and an increase of the immunity to the electric inteferences (due to the absence of the said positive feedback).
- the temperature hysteresis obtained in this way is equal to about one centigrade degree totally (half degree lower or higher).
- block 40 represents the start of the flowchart; block 40 transmits the control to block 41, which is a test block to verify that the fast freezing function (so called 'fast freezer') is enabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 42, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 43.
- block 41 is a test block to verify that the fast freezing function (so called 'fast freezer') is enabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 42, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 43.
- Block 42 switches on the warning light, or confirms its switching on, and returns the control to block 41;
- block 43 is a test block to verify that the defrost function is enabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 44, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 45.
- Block 44 activates or cornfirms the flashing operation of the warning light, and returns the control to block 41; block 45 switches off the warning light, or confirms its switching off, and returns the control to block 41.
- block 50 represents the start of the flowchart; block 50 transmits the control to block S1, which is a test block to verify that the defrost function must start (the defrost cycles are normally required by the system, namely in fast freezing absence, every 14 hours for the freezer and every 7 hours for the refrigerator); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 52, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back to block 50.
- block S1 is a test block to verify that the defrost function must start (the defrost cycles are normally required by the system, namely in fast freezing absence, every 14 hours for the freezer and every 7 hours for the refrigerator); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 52, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back to block 50.
- Block 52 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disactivated; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control remains to block 52, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 53.
- Block 53 resets the count of the active compressor time and transmits the control to block 55.
- Block 55 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 58, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 56.
- Block 56 is a test block to verify that the compressor has been active for 3 hours; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 57, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 54.
- Block 54 increases the count of the active compressor time and returns the control to block 55; block 57 disables the compressor (said forced disactivation after a three hours uninterrupted operation can be necessary in case of high external temperature, when the compressor could be ever on) and transmits the control to block 58.
- Block 58 enables the defrost heater and transmits the control to block 59; block 59 resets the count of the defrost time and transmits the control to block 60.
- Block 60 is a test block to verify that the count of the defrost time has reached the predetermined maximum value (30 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 63, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 61.
- Block 61 is a test block to verify that the contact of the thermoprotector 16 is opened; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 63, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 62.
- Block 62 increases the count of the defrost time and returns the control to block 60; block 63 disables the defrost heater and returns the control to block 50.
- the refrigerator defrost cycle operates in the same way; the end of the defrost cycle is determined by the probe 11, and precisely when the temperature that it detects is +4°C.
- the block 65 represents the start of the flowchart; block 65 transmits the control to block 66, which is a test block to verify that the compressor is disabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 67, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back to block 66.
- Block 67 resets the count of the disactive compressor time and transmits the control to block 68.
- Block 68 which is a test block, verifies that the compressor is on; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes back to block 66, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 69.
- Block 69 which is a test block, verifies that the count of the disactive compressor time has reached the predetermined maxim value (80 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 71, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 70.
- Block 70 increases the count of the disactive compressor time, and transmits the control to block 68; block 71 enables the compressor and transmits the control to block 72.
- Block 72 resets the count of the active compressor time and transmits the control to block 73.
- Block 73 which is a test block, verifies that the count of the active compressor time has reached the predetermined maximum value (40 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 74, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 75.
- Block 74 disbles the compressor and transmits the control to block 66; block 75, which is a test block, verifies that the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is at the admissible minimum value (+1°); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 76, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 77.
- Block 76 activates the heater 18 of the refrigerator compartment and transmits the control to block 78; block 77 disables the heater 18 of the refrigerator compartment and transmits the control to block 78.
- Block 78 from its side, increases the count of the active compressor time and returns the control to block 73.
- the semi-custom integrated circuit included in the control device 5 according to the invention, besides the described characteristics, has also a memory function.
- Such a function has the aim to memorize that a mains supply failure lasted for more than 10 seconds; in this case, when the mains supply returns, the compressor is activated for 45 minutes; simultaneously the regulation of the temperature to be maintained in the refrigerator compartment is simulated at +1°C.
- Such a function is used in the manufacturing process to comparate the performance (temperature progress referred to a fixed time interval).
- - low cost and manufacturing uniformity - thermostatic control independent from the room temperature; - compressor safety from unbalanced starts; - the freezer is not heated even in the case that the external temperature is low; - excessive ice is not formed even when the external temperature is higher than 30°C.
- the probe to measure the air temperature of the refrigerator compartment is represented by a resistor with negative temperature coefficient (NTC), directly welded on the printed circuit contained in the control device 5.
- NTC negative temperature coefficient
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a refrigerating device comprising two compartments and precisely a first compartment used for the storage of fresh food and a second compartment used for the freezing and storing of foods, a refrigerating circuit comprising a compressor, a first and a second evaporators arranged in said first and second compartments, respectively, and a condenser, and also comprising a temperature control system, having manual regulation possibility, located in said first compartment.
- Refrigerating devices of the above mentioned type are known; they represent probablythe most widespread type of domestic refrigerators. The two evaporators located respectively in the first compartment (fresh food compartment or 'refrigerator') and in the second compartment ('freezer'), are arranged in series on the same refrigerating circuit, driven, for costs reasons, by one compressor only.
- In such refrigerating devices the freezer compartment is practically 'towed' by the fresh food compartment (normally called 'refrigerator' compartment), the two evaporators being in series between themselves, and the thermostatic control being done with reference to the 'refrigerator' compartment only.
- Such a thermostatic control is done by means of a normal electromechanical thermostat just placed into the refrigerator compartment, equipped with a knob for the manual setting of the desired temperature, within certain limits.
- The control of the satisfactory operation in the different environmental conditions, both in the 'refrigerator' compartment and in the 'freezer' compartment, has always caused various and well known problems for refrigerating devices of this type, due to the poor flexibility of the system.
- Many changes have been proposed to the simple basic system, to obviate such drawbacks, with poor results and always with increments of manufacturing costs and consequently of selling prices, and with diminution of the reliability of the apparatus.
- For example the italian patent application nr. 21201-A/79 describes a refrigerating device of the above cited type, where two sensor are provided in the fresh food compartment: one in air and the other on the plate of the evaporator; the control system comprises a thermostatic system of electronic type and the compressor is enabled when the plate of the evaporator reaches the temperature of +4°; the compressor is then disabled when the air probe detects that the temperature is fallen to the value manually input by the user.
- Said patent has the aim of overfreezing foods placed in the 'freezer' compartment.
- The italian patent application nr. 68230-A/80 also describes a refrigerating device of the above cited type, similar to the one described in the previous patent application, which provides, besides the usual thermostat, a thermistor placed in the fresh food compartment, in the point where the air is lower; when the compressor must operate for a long time, to fastly freeze the food, the thermistor commutates the output of the comparator, which acts on the circuit of the thermostat and switches off the compressor in order to impede that in the other compartment the temperature falls below zero degree.
- The known systems have many drawbacks, first of all that, into very cold rooms, the compressor remains disabled for long time intervals and the temperature of the 'freezer' compartment reaches dangerous values for the storing of the food therein contained.
- Aim of the present invention is to indicate how it is possible to realize a refrigerating device which can correctly operate at different room temperatures, which allows manufacturing uniformity, reliability in use and a reduced cost.
- To achieve such purpose the aim of the present invention is to indicate a refrigerating device comprising two compartments and precisely a first compartment used for the storage of fresh food and a second compartment used for the freezing and storing of foods, a refrigerating circuit comprising a compressor, a first and a second evaporators arranged in said first and second compartments, respectively, and a condenser, and also comprising a temperature control system, having manual regulation possibility, located in said first compartment, characterized by the fact that automatic regulation means are provided, which operate on the basis of the room temperature so assuring the correct operation in both said two compartments.
- Further aims and advantages of the present invention are clearly shown in the following detailed description and annexed drawings by way of an explicative and not limiting example, where:
- - figure 1 shows schematically the refrigerating device according to the invention;
- - figure 2 shows the block diagram of the electric circuit of the refrigerating device according to the invention;
- - figure 3 shows schematically the circuit of one of the blocks of the circuit of fig. 2;
- - figure 4 shows schematically a part of the circuit of fig. 2;
- - figure 5 shows schematically the circuit of a second block of the circuit of fig. 2;
- - figure 6 shows schematically the circuit of a third block of the circuit of fig. 2.
- In figure 1, showing schematically the refrigerating device according to the invention, number 1 indicates an electric fan;
number 2 indicates the evaporator of the 'freezer' compartment; number 3 indicates a defrost heater located in the 'freezer' compartment;number 5 indicates the operation control device of the refrigerating device,number 4 indicates a knob for the regulation of the temperature (monoturn rotative linear potentiometer) which is part of said device;number 6 indicates a luminous warning light (LED) placed on said device; number 7 indicates a manual push (fast freezing) also located on said device;number 8 indicates the temperature probe of the evaporator of the 'refrigerator' compartment, connected to saiddevice 5; number 9 indicates the air temperature probe of the same compartment, connected to thesame device 5, and atlast number 10 indicates the refrigerating fluid compressor. - The
control device 5 consists of a plastic material casing, containing an integrated circuit, on which there are mounted in a known way, a certain number of components; among them there is comprised an integrated circuit of the semi-custom type, which is responsible for actuating the main control functions, and which will be described in more detail with reference to figure 2. - The dimensions of the casing of the
device 5 are limited and are practically equivalent to those of a normal electromechanical thermostat. -
Compressor 10 and the evaporators of the freezer and refrigerating compartments are over sized, in order to satisfy the refrigerating needs of the respective compartments even in tropical climates. - In figure 2, showing the block diagram of the control circuit of the refrigerating device according to the invention, the central rectangle (R) represents the semi-custom integrated circuit above cited; all around there are represented the accessory components connected to it. Specifically, inside the rectangle, symbol B indicates the block generating system time base; symbol T indicates the block performing the thermostatic control function (described in detail with reference to figure 3); symbol F indicates the block performing the control function of the operating ratio (described in detail with reference to figure 6); symbol S1 indicates the block performing the defrost function of the 'freezer' compartment (described in detail with reference to figure 5); symbol S2 indicates the block performing the defrost function of the 'refrigerator' compartment, which is similar to block S1; symbol A indicates the block performing the autotest function, which is realized all the times that the refrigerating device is switched on; at last symbol G indicates the block performing the loads handling function.
- Outside the rectangle, symbol MC indicates the compressor; number 11 indicates the air temperature probe of the 'refrigerator' compartment;
number 12 indicates a 50 Hz wave-form coming from the supply mains, which arrives to the block B;number 13 indicates the 'reset' terminal of the control system, in case that a mains supply failure occurs; number 14 indicates the temperature probe of the evaporator of the 'refrigerator' compartment;number 15 indicates the defrost heater of the 'freezer' compartment;number 16 indicates the contact of a bimetal placed on the 'freezer' evaporator (thermoprotector) which opens the circuit if the temperature reaches +5°C;number 17 indicates the fan;number 18 indicates the heater of the 'refrigerator' compartment and atlast number 19 indicates the wires of the 220 Volts supply mains. - The two temperature probes 11 and 14 are each connected in a bridge circuit, including a tension comparator (01,02) whose output is connected respectively to the block T for the probe 11 and to the block S2 for the probe 14.
- Loads MC, 15, 17 and 18 are connected to the block G, which controls them.
- In figure 3, showing schematically the circuit of one of the blocks of the circuit of figure 2, and precisely the block T, performing the thermostatic control function, the
block 20 represents the start of the flowchart; theblock 20 transmits the control toblock 21, which is a test block to verify that there is at the moment a cold request (or that the temperature detected by the probe 11 is higher than the one input through the knob 4); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 27, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 22. -
Block 22 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disactived; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 23, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 24. -
Block 23 increases the count of the disactive compressor time and then transmits again the control toblock 21;block 24 is a test block to verify that the active compressor time is equal to or higher than 8 minutes; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 25, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back toblock 21. -
Block 25 disables the compressor and transmits the control toblock 26;block 26 resets the active compressor time and returns the control toblock 21. -
Block 27 is a test block to verify that the compressor is active; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 28, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 29. -
Block 28 increases the count of the active compressor time, and returns the control toblock 21. -
Block 29 is a test block to verify that the disactive compressor time is equal to or higher than 8 minutes; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over to block 30, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back toblock 21. -
Block 30 activates the compressor and trasmits the control to the subsequent block 31, which in his turn, resets the count of the disactive compressor time and returns the control to block 21. - The imposition of an 8 minutes minimum time of activation-disactivation of the compressor has the aim to prevent stability problems, due to electric inteferences, realizing the hysteresis function which is normally obtained by the voltage comparator. It is so obtained a reduction of the number of components associated to the voltage comparator 01 (fig. 2), as the wired hysteresis (positive feedback) is no longer necessary, and an increase of the immunity to the electric inteferences (due to the absence of the said positive feedback).
- The temperature hysteresis obtained in this way is equal to about one centigrade degree totally (half degree lower or higher).
- In figure 4, showing schematically the circuit of a part of the circuit of fig. 2, and precisely the control part of the LED luminous warning light,
block 40 represents the start of the flowchart;block 40 transmits the control toblock 41, which is a test block to verify that the fast freezing function (so called 'fast freezer') is enabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 42, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 43. -
Block 42 switches on the warning light, or confirms its switching on, and returns the control toblock 41;block 43 is a test block to verify that the defrost function is enabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 44, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 45. -
Block 44 activates or cornfirms the flashing operation of the warning light, and returns the control toblock 41; block 45 switches off the warning light, or confirms its switching off, and returns the control toblock 41. - In figure 5, showing schematically the circuit of one of the blocks of fig. 2, namely of the block S1, enabling the defrost function of the 'freezer' compartment,
block 50 represents the start of the flowchart;block 50 transmits the control to block S1, which is a test block to verify that the defrost function must start (the defrost cycles are normally required by the system, namely in fast freezing absence, every 14 hours for the freezer and every 7 hours for the refrigerator); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 52, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back toblock 50. -
Block 52 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disactivated; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control remains to block 52, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 53. -
Block 53 resets the count of the active compressor time and transmits the control to block 55. -
Block 55 is a test block to verify that the compressor is disabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 58, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 56. -
Block 56 is a test block to verify that the compressor has been active for 3 hours; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 57, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 54. -
Block 54 increases the count of the active compressor time and returns the control toblock 55;block 57 disables the compressor (said forced disactivation after a three hours uninterrupted operation can be necessary in case of high external temperature, when the compressor could be ever on) and transmits the control to block 58. -
Block 58 enables the defrost heater and transmits the control toblock 59;block 59 resets the count of the defrost time and transmits the control toblock 60. -
Block 60 is a test block to verify that the count of the defrost time has reached the predetermined maximum value (30 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 63, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 61. -
Block 61 is a test block to verify that the contact of thethermoprotector 16 is opened; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 63, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 62. -
Block 62 increases the count of the defrost time and returns the control toblock 60;block 63 disables the defrost heater and returns the control toblock 50. - The refrigerator defrost cycle operates in the same way; the end of the defrost cycle is determined by the probe 11, and precisely when the temperature that it detects is +4°C.
- In figure 6, showing schematically the circuit of one of the blocks of the circuit of fig. 2, and precisely of the block F, assuring the control function of the operating ratio, the
block 65 represents the start of the flowchart;block 65 transmits the control toblock 66, which is a test block to verify that the compressor is disabled; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 67, in the negative (output NO) the control goes back toblock 66. -
Block 67 resets the count of the disactive compressor time and transmits the control toblock 68. -
Block 68, which is a test block, verifies that the compressor is on; in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes back toblock 66, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 69. -
Block 69, which is a test block, verifies that the count of the disactive compressor time has reached the predetermined maxim value (80 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 71, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over toblock 70. -
Block 70 increases the count of the disactive compressor time, and transmits the control toblock 68;block 71 enables the compressor and transmits the control toblock 72. -
Block 72 resets the count of the active compressor time and transmits the control toblock 73. -
Block 73, which is a test block, verifies that the count of the active compressor time has reached the predetermined maximum value (40 minutes); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 74, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 75. -
Block 74 disbles the compressor and transmits the control toblock 66;block 75, which is a test block, verifies that the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is at the admissible minimum value (+1°); in the affirmative case (output SI) the control goes over toblock 76, in the negative (output NO) the control goes over to block 77. -
Block 76 activates theheater 18 of the refrigerator compartment and transmits the control toblock 78;block 77 disables theheater 18 of the refrigerator compartment and transmits the control to block 78. -
Block 78, from its side, increases the count of the active compressor time and returns the control toblock 73. - The semi-custom integrated circuit, included in the
control device 5 according to the invention, besides the described characteristics, has also a memory function. - Such a function has the aim to memorize that a mains supply failure lasted for more than 10 seconds; in this case, when the mains supply returns, the compressor is activated for 45 minutes; simultaneously the regulation of the temperature to be maintained in the refrigerator compartment is simulated at +1°C.
- Such a function is used in the manufacturing process to comparate the performance (temperature progress referred to a fixed time interval).
- The characteristics of the refrigerating device as described above are clearly shown in the description and annexed drawings.
- Also the advantages of the improved refrigerating device according to the present invention are clear.
- Specifically they are represented by the following features:
- low cost and manufacturing uniformity;
- thermostatic control independent from the room temperature;
- compressor safety from unbalanced starts;
- the freezer is not heated even in the case that the external temperature is low;
- excessive ice is not formed even when the external temperature is higher than 30°C. - It is obvious that many other changes are possible for the man skilled in the art to the refrigerating device described by way of example, without departing from the scope of the innovating criteria inherent of the present invention.
- By way of example it is suggested that the probe to measure the air temperature of the refrigerator compartment is represented by a resistor with negative temperature coefficient (NTC), directly welded on the printed circuit contained in the
control device 5.
Claims (25)
- a digital part (T, F, S1, S2);
- an analogic part (01, 02)
- a temperature sensor (11) detecting the air temperature.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
IT6727789 | 1989-04-14 | ||
IT8967277A IT1233203B (en) | 1989-04-14 | 1989-04-14 | REFRIGERATED REFRIGERATOR |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0392521A2 true EP0392521A2 (en) | 1990-10-17 |
EP0392521A3 EP0392521A3 (en) | 1991-03-20 |
EP0392521B1 EP0392521B1 (en) | 1995-12-27 |
Family
ID=11301076
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP90106983A Expired - Lifetime EP0392521B1 (en) | 1989-04-14 | 1990-04-11 | Refrigerating device and method for controlling its operation |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0392521B1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE69024395T2 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2081866T3 (en) |
IT (1) | IT1233203B (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0509476A2 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1992-10-21 | MERLONI ELETTRODOMESTICI S.p.A. | Refrigerating apparatus |
EP0513539A2 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1992-11-19 | MERLONI ELETTRODOMESTICI S.p.A. | Household appliance with electronic control |
DE4132719A1 (en) * | 1991-10-01 | 1993-04-08 | Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | COOLER, ESPECIALLY MULTI-TEMPERATURE REFRIGERATOR |
EP0686818A2 (en) * | 1994-06-08 | 1995-12-13 | Merloni Elettrodomestici S.p.A. | Control method for a refrigerator apparatus and an apparatus implementing such method |
WO2013160109A1 (en) * | 2012-04-25 | 2013-10-31 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Single-circuit refrigerator |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE10219486A1 (en) | 2002-04-30 | 2003-11-20 | Rudolf Faude | Electric cooling device |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2347634A1 (en) * | 1976-04-08 | 1977-11-04 | Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Dual temp. controlled refrigerator - has defrosting heating element in freezer compartment controlled in dependence on ambient temp. |
EP0064873A2 (en) * | 1981-05-07 | 1982-11-17 | R D Technology Limited | Refrigeration system monitoring and warning apparatus |
US4546618A (en) * | 1984-09-20 | 1985-10-15 | Borg-Warner Corporation | Capacity control systems for inverter-driven centrifugal compressor based water chillers |
US4627245A (en) * | 1985-02-08 | 1986-12-09 | Honeywell Inc. | De-icing thermostat for air conditioners |
EP0298349A2 (en) * | 1987-07-09 | 1989-01-11 | INDUSTRIE ZANUSSI S.p.A. | Refrigerating appliance for different temperatures with single-compressor refrigerant circuit and single-thermostat temperature control |
-
1989
- 1989-04-14 IT IT8967277A patent/IT1233203B/en active
-
1990
- 1990-04-11 DE DE69024395T patent/DE69024395T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-04-11 EP EP90106983A patent/EP0392521B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-04-11 ES ES90106983T patent/ES2081866T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR2347634A1 (en) * | 1976-04-08 | 1977-11-04 | Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Dual temp. controlled refrigerator - has defrosting heating element in freezer compartment controlled in dependence on ambient temp. |
EP0064873A2 (en) * | 1981-05-07 | 1982-11-17 | R D Technology Limited | Refrigeration system monitoring and warning apparatus |
US4546618A (en) * | 1984-09-20 | 1985-10-15 | Borg-Warner Corporation | Capacity control systems for inverter-driven centrifugal compressor based water chillers |
US4627245A (en) * | 1985-02-08 | 1986-12-09 | Honeywell Inc. | De-icing thermostat for air conditioners |
EP0298349A2 (en) * | 1987-07-09 | 1989-01-11 | INDUSTRIE ZANUSSI S.p.A. | Refrigerating appliance for different temperatures with single-compressor refrigerant circuit and single-thermostat temperature control |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0509476A2 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1992-10-21 | MERLONI ELETTRODOMESTICI S.p.A. | Refrigerating apparatus |
EP0513539A2 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1992-11-19 | MERLONI ELETTRODOMESTICI S.p.A. | Household appliance with electronic control |
EP0513539A3 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1993-12-01 | Merloni Elettrodomestici Spa | Household appliance with electronic control |
EP0509476A3 (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1993-12-01 | Merloni Elettrodomestici Spa | Refrigerating apparatus |
DE4132719A1 (en) * | 1991-10-01 | 1993-04-08 | Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | COOLER, ESPECIALLY MULTI-TEMPERATURE REFRIGERATOR |
DE4132719C2 (en) * | 1991-10-01 | 1998-01-15 | Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete | Multi-temperature refrigerator |
EP0686818A2 (en) * | 1994-06-08 | 1995-12-13 | Merloni Elettrodomestici S.p.A. | Control method for a refrigerator apparatus and an apparatus implementing such method |
EP0686818A3 (en) * | 1994-06-08 | 1998-01-14 | Merloni Elettrodomestici S.p.A. | Control method for a refrigerator apparatus and an apparatus implementing such method |
WO2013160109A1 (en) * | 2012-04-25 | 2013-10-31 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Single-circuit refrigerator |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE69024395D1 (en) | 1996-02-08 |
IT1233203B (en) | 1992-03-20 |
IT8967277A0 (en) | 1989-04-14 |
EP0392521A3 (en) | 1991-03-20 |
EP0392521B1 (en) | 1995-12-27 |
DE69024395T2 (en) | 1996-05-15 |
ES2081866T3 (en) | 1996-03-16 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
JP3712938B2 (en) | Multipoint digital temperature controller | |
EP0927919B1 (en) | Electronic thermostat control unit and its use in multipoint temperature controller for refrigeration and heating systems | |
US4283921A (en) | Control and alarm system for freezer case temperature | |
US5634346A (en) | Apparatus and method for controlling a room air conditioner | |
US4297852A (en) | Refrigerator defrost control with control of time interval between defrost cycles | |
US4916912A (en) | Heat pump with adaptive frost determination function | |
CA1141006A (en) | Heat pump control system | |
US4663941A (en) | Refrigerator temperature and defrost control | |
JPS62206370A (en) | Refrigeration control system capable of self-adjusting interval of defrostation | |
GB2062919A (en) | Microcomputer based fault detection and indicator control system in a refrigeration apparatus | |
US3335576A (en) | Defrost control for refrigeration apparatus | |
US3453837A (en) | Defrost control apparatus | |
EP0392521A2 (en) | Refrigerating device and method for controlling its operation | |
EP0513539B1 (en) | Household appliance with electronic control | |
EP0045728B1 (en) | Electronic temperature regulator for a refrigerator | |
EP0383222B1 (en) | Refrigerating device | |
GB2031631A (en) | Refrigerator temperature monitor | |
EP0803690A1 (en) | Defrost control of a refrigeration system utilizing ambient air temperature determination | |
GB2133867A (en) | Defrost control means | |
KR0148171B1 (en) | Airconditioner with temperature sensor current control device | |
EP0494785A1 (en) | Temperature control system for refrigerator | |
US4535599A (en) | Control device for refrigerating equipment | |
GB2045980A (en) | Electromagnetic Temperature Control Arrangement for Refrigerators | |
US3164969A (en) | Heat pump defrost control | |
US3483919A (en) | Electric refrigerator with defrosting means |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB |
|
PUAL | Search report despatched |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A3 Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 19910912 |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 19920728 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB |
|
REF | Corresponds to: |
Ref document number: 69024395 Country of ref document: DE Date of ref document: 19960208 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FG2A Ref document number: 2081866 Country of ref document: ES Kind code of ref document: T3 |
|
ET | Fr: translation filed | ||
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
26N | No opposition filed | ||
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: IF02 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20030428 Year of fee payment: 14 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20030502 Year of fee payment: 14 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20030505 Year of fee payment: 14 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Payment date: 20030509 Year of fee payment: 14 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20040411 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20040412 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20041103 |
|
GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20040411 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20041231 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FD2A Effective date: 20040412 |