JP2001033132A - Refrigerator equipped with automatic ice making machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent an ill condition of an automatic ice making machine by giving a warning to clean a water pan or the like in the case where reduction of reflected light to a light receiving element exceeds a given value because of the dirtiness of the water pan or water therein. SOLUTION: When a water pan is detected as being set as shown in the reference numeral 216, the degree of dirtiness is determined as in the reference numeral 217, in terms of the degree of reduction of reflected light to a light receiving element, which is caused by the dirtiness of the water pan or water therein, and when the degree of dirtiness exceeds a given value, a determination as being dirty is made. When such a determination as being dirty is made, a warning is given as in the reference numeral 218. Further, when no water pan is set as in the numeral 216, and when the degree of dirtiness in the water pan does not exceed the given degree as in the numeral 217, resetting is effected to return to the start, and the same determination procedures are repeated. Thus, an ill condition of an automatic ice making machine can be prevented.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker that automatically performs operations from water supply to ice removal.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG.
It is a diagram showing a conventional automatic ice making device shown in the official gazette,
In FIG. 48, reference numeral 1 denotes a refrigerator cabinet, and reference numeral 2 denotes an ice making room formed in a section inside the refrigerator cabinet. 3 is an ice making room 2
A de-icing device disposed above the motor, specifically, a drive unit 4 having a built-in drive source such as a motor and a built-in reduction mechanism (both not shown) composed of a number of gears and the like, and a frame 5. As shown in FIG. 47, the ice tray 6 is accommodated in the frame 5 and supported, and the supported ice tray 6 is inverted while being twisted after the ice making is completed.
Ice is peeled from the inside. Here, the ice tray 6 is also formed by dividing the inside thereof into one vertical partition 7 and a plurality of horizontal partitions 8 as shown in FIG. The water supply is detected by the temperature of the ice tray 6 in the vertical partition 7 between the ice making recesses 9 located at the farthest part (right end in the drawing) of the ice separating apparatus 3 farthest from the drive unit 4. A temperature sensor 10, also called a temperature sensor, for detecting the completion of ice making is provided. Numeral 11 denotes a water supply device, which is a water storage tank 12 disposed outside the ice making chamber 2 as shown in FIG. 13, and a water supply which guides water in the water storage tank 12 to the inside of the ice maker 5 by operation of a pump (not shown). The water supply outlet of the water supply pipe 13 faces the one ice making recess 9 at the right end of the ice tray 6 in FIG.
Therefore, the temperature sensor 10 is connected to the tip 14 of the water supply pipe 13.
(Water supply outlet) side, in particular, located almost immediately below it. On the other hand, 15 is a cool air supply device, which also has a cooler 17 for cooling the inside of the refrigerator, which is disposed in a cooler room 16 in the back wall of the refrigerator cabinet 1 as shown in detail in FIG. A cool air supply duct 18 which receives the distribution of cool air from the cooler 17 by a fan (not shown) and guides the cool air to the ice tray 6. The tip 19 of the cool air supply duct 18 which is a cool air outlet is provided. 47, from the upper right side in the figure, except the ice making recess 9 at the right end in FIG. 47 of the ice making tray 6, so that the temperature sensor 10 is moved to the tip 19 of the cold air supply duct 18.
(Cold air outlet).
In FIG. 48, reference numeral 20 denotes an ice storage unit constituting an ice storage unit, which is disposed so as to be able to enter and exit the ice making chamber 2 below the ice separating device 3.

[0003] Now, in the case of the structure described above,
When the ice making operation is started as shown in FIG. 50, first, water is supplied into the ice tray 6 by the water supply device 11 (step 101). Then, the ice tray 6 is moved to the cold air supply device 15.
The temperature is raised by receiving the supply of the water from the state where the temperature is lowered by supplying the cool air, and the temperature sensor 10 detects that the water is supplied into the ice tray 6 at the temperature. Step 102). Therefore, based on this, the ice making process is started, and the water stored in the ice making tray 6 receives the cool air supplied by the cool air supply device 15 and gradually freezes. When the ice making is completed, the temperature sensor 10 detects the completion of the ice making based on the temperature of the ice tray 6 at that time (step 103), and the ice release device 3 starts operating based on the detection (step 1).
04). Therefore, the ice tray 6 is inverted while being twisted, and peels off the ice therein. The peeled ice falls and is stored in the ice storage device 20, and the ice tray 6 is returned to its original state thereafter. After the ice tray 6 is returned, the above operation is repeated. It is. During operation as described above, the temperature sensor 10 is located at a portion of the water supply device 11 on the side of the water supply port (the distal end portion 14 of the water supply pipe 13), and according to this configuration, when the water supply amount is small. However, sufficient water is always supplied to the portion where the temperature sensor 10 is located, so that the temperature is surely increased. Therefore, the temperature sensor 10 operates reliably, and it is possible to prevent the ice making as in the related art from being left unstarted. Also, in this case, there is no indication of running out of water, and the user does not accidentally replenish the water, so that a double water supply situation is avoided and the problem of overflow from the ice tray 6 is solved. . Further, the temperature sensor 10 is located on the opposite side to the cool air discharge port (the distal end portion 19 of the cool air supply duct 18) of the cool air supply device 15, and according to this configuration, the temperature of the ice making is reduced. Since the temperature sensor 10 is located at the position where the completion is the latest, when the temperature sensor 10 detects the completion of the ice making, the ice making of the other portions has already been completed. Since ice which has been completely ice-made is put into the tray, it is possible to prevent ice or water from being put in the middle of the ice making like the conventional one.

FIG. 51 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of another conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker disclosed in, for example, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 1-148567, FIG. 52 is an electric control circuit configuration diagram, and FIGS.
Is a graph showing the relationship between the temperature sensor and the temperature of the water in the ice tray, FIG. 55 is a control flowchart, in which 1 is a refrigerator main body, 21 is a freezing room, 2 is an ice making room, 22 is a refrigerator room, and 16 is a refrigerator room. Cooler room, 17 is a cooler, 3 is an automatic ice maker, 10 is a temperature sensor, 6 is an ice tray, 23a is a motor cover, 20 is an ice storage box, 23 is an ice tray reversing motor,
12 is a water supply tank, 24 is a water supply pump, 25 is a control device (set temperature switching means), and 26 is a drive circuit.

Next, the operation will be described. After the ice making is completed and the ice separating operation is performed, when the water supply pump 24 operates to supply water to the ice making tray 6 from the water supply tank 12 also called a water storage tank, the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 also rises. Thereafter, when the cooling operation of the refrigerator 1 is started, the air in the freezing room 21, the ice making room 2, and the refrigerator room 22 is sucked into the cooler room 16,
After being cooled by the cooler 17, it is distributed to each room through a duct. The cool air supplied to the ice making chamber 2 cools the ice tray 6, the upper surface of the water of the ice tray 6, and the temperature sensor 10 by forced convection heat transfer, and then returns to the cooler room 16 again. The temperature of the temperature sensor 10 is in contact with the ice tray 6 and originally the ice tray 6
Although it is desired that the water temperature is equal to the internal water temperature, the effect of the temperature of the cold air is large due to heat transfer as described above. Normally, as shown in FIG. 53, when the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 becomes −12 ° C. or less, the controller 25 determines that the ice making is completed.
Is determined, and the ice tray inverting motor 27 is rotated to issue an instruction through the drive circuit 16. In the case of the rapid cooling operation, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 55, the ice making completion set temperature is set to −20 ° C., and the temperature difference between the water temperature in the ice making tray 6 and the temperature sensor 10 is taken into consideration, so that the ice in the ice making tray 6 is completely separated before the water in the ice making tray 6 is completely frozen. No action is taken.

Further, other conventional refrigerators and refrigerators are disclosed in JP-A-58-127082 and JP-A-63-61868.
Gazette, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 1-136867, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 49-
68760 and JP-A-2-89973 have been proposed.

[0007]

Since the conventional automatic ice making apparatus is configured as described above, impurities contained in tap water or the like settled in a water tray during ice making are supplied by a water supply pump. At the time, it remains on the bottom and side surfaces of the water tray and accumulates. Problems such as clogging of a water supply pump due to the impurities cause troubles in an automatic ice making machine and deterioration of ice flavor.

Further, for example, when the use of ice in winter is small, if the number of times of de-icing operation is reduced, the number of times of replacing water in the water supply tank and the water receiving tray is reduced, so that water rot or water in the water receiving tray is reduced. There were problems such as the accumulation of impurities contained in tap water and the like due to the evaporation of water, which caused problems with the automatic ice making machine and the deterioration of the flavor of ice.

Further, the dirt on the water tray shown above is
There was also a problem that it could not be confirmed when the water tray was installed.

[0010] Further, the conventional purifying device is so-called tasty water when it comes out of the outlet, but since the water storage period in the water receiving container is irregular, if the period is long, the water is sterilized by activated carbon. Since the action has been removed, there is a problem that the bacteria easily propagate and become unsanitary if not maintained.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker which can prevent problems such as a defect of an automatic ice maker and deterioration of the flavor of ice. Aim.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a purifying apparatus in which bacteria do not propagate even if water accumulates irregularly in a water receiving container.

[0013]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to the present invention is provided in a refrigerator compartment, and a water storage tank and a water receiving tray connected to each other by piping, and an ice making provided from the water receiving tray to a freezing compartment. In a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker having a water supply pump for supplying water to a dish, a water tray detecting means for detecting that a water tray is installed, and a reflection type photo having a light emitting element and a light receiving element installed in the water tray. A sensor, a reflection unit that is installed on the water tray and reflects light from the light emitting element toward the light receiving element, and when the attenuation of the reflected light to the light receiving element due to the water tray or water contamination exceeds a certain value. Warning means for cleaning the water tray and the like.

[0014] Further, it is provided in the refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping.
The connected water tank and water pan, and from this water pan
A water supply pump that supplies water to the ice tray provided in the freezer
In the refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine
Take the water storage container connected to the water supply port of the storage tank on the storage room side.
Electric pump and UV lamp attached, electric pump
After a certain time (T₁ ) After a certain time (T_Two )
One fixed time interval (T _Three ) Irradiates the ultraviolet lamp
Means.

A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker provided with a water storage tank and a water receiving tray provided in the refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping, and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water receiving tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing room. In the automatic ice making device, the electric pump and the ultraviolet lamp attached to the water receiving container connected to the water supply port of the water storage tank on the side of the refrigerator compartment, the door switch attached to the refrigerator door, and the door after the electric pump is operated. It closed a predetermined time if (T ₁₎ predetermined time after (T ₂₎ at a time, in which and a means for irradiating the UV lamp at a predetermined time interval (T _3).

[0016]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiment 1 Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Since the refrigerator main body and the automatic ice making device are the same as the conventional example, the description is omitted. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 denotes a temperature sensor which is attached to the ice maker 6 and detects water supply and completion of ice making based on the temperature of the ice maker 6. Reference numeral 32 denotes a timer device, which starts measuring time after the operation of a water supply pump (not shown) is completed. Three
Reference numeral 1 denotes a control unit configured to input the detection temperature of the temperature sensor 10 and the time measured by the timer device 32 and output the input to the ice removal device 3 and a water supply pump (not shown).

Refrigerator with automatic ice maker constructed as described above
The operation of the storage will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Ma
In step 201, water is supplied. Then step 202
And the temperature T ° C of the temperature sensor 10 becomes the predetermined water supply completion temperature T
₁ Determine if the temperature has risen above ℃. If "No"
Means that the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 is equal to a predetermined water supply completion temperature T ₁ 
Wait until the temperature reaches ℃₁ When the temperature rises above ℃,
In step 203, the ice making completion is determined.

That is, after the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 is once increased to T ₁ ° C or more by the supplied water, it is cooled and then deiced until it is cooled to a predetermined first ice making completion temperature T ₂ ° C or less. (Step 204) Not performed. However, during that time, the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 reaches the predetermined second ice-making completion temperature (when “Yes” in step 205), and the time t after the water supply ends reaches the predetermined ice-making completion determination time t ₀ . (If "Yes" in step 206), the ice is removed.

The above operation is performed by comparing the temperature of the ice tray shown in FIGS.
This will be described with reference to a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the temperature sensor temperature. FIG.
Is a characteristic diagram when the heat load is relatively small as a refrigerator,
T after the end of water supply₀ By the time the temperature sensor 10
The temperature is the first ice making completion temperature T _Two ℃ or lower
Is done. Figure 4 shows that the temperature around the refrigerator is high and the frequency of opening and closing the door
If the refrigerator has a high heat load due to
When the door opens and closes, the cool air inside the refrigerator escapes outside the door
To go to the first ice making completion temperature after the water supply ends.
It shows a bad state. In this case, the temperature sensor temperature is the first
Water in the ice tray, even if it has not dropped to
De-icing because the temperature has dropped to a sufficiently frozen level including the temperature
I do.

Embodiment 2 In the first embodiment, the ice making completion temperature is also provided in two stages, and the temperature sensor temperature is set to the first temperature.
The ice release is performed when the temperature has decreased to the ice making completion temperature or when a predetermined time has elapsed after the water supply has ended and the temperature has dropped to the second ice making completion temperature set higher than the first ice making completion temperature. As shown in FIG. 5, the ice making completion temperature and the ice making completion judgment time may be set in three or more stages in advance. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the ice-making completion temperature may be determined as a function that changes the ice-making completion temperature depending on the time after the end of water supply.

Embodiment 3 Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is an electrical control circuit configuration diagram. FIG. 8 is a control flowchart of the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a characteristic diagram showing a relationship between the temperature detected by the temperature sensor and the temperature of water in the ice tray during normal operation.

Next, the operation will be described. In the case of the normal cooling operation, as shown in FIG. 9, the difference between the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6 and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 10 does not become so large. If the difference is within 6 degrees, the ice making operation is considered to be completed when the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 reaches -12 ° C. as in the present embodiment (actual ice temperature is -5 ° C.), and the deicing operation is performed. Is performed, all the water in the ice tray 6 can be dropped into the ice storage box 20 as ice.

However, when a door of a room other than the ice making chamber 2 is opened and closed as shown in FIG. 10 or a special operation mode such as a rapid cooling operation is performed, the cooling operation is continuously performed for a long time. Therefore, the temperature difference between the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6 and the temperature sensor 10 becomes larger than usual, and even if all the water in the ice tray 6 is not frozen, the temperature of the temperature sensor 10 becomes higher. It reaches -12 ° C. Therefore, the temperature drop speed of the temperature sensor 10 from the start of ice making to -12 ° C. is calculated in the control device from the temperature drop amount ΔT during the minute time Δt by v = ΔT / Δt, and the value v is set to a certain value. If the value is larger than the value V, the ice making completion set temperature is switched to −20 ° C. in the present embodiment, so that the water in the ice tray 6 can be completely frozen and then the ice releasing operation can be performed.

In the control flowchart of FIG. 8, the speed of temperature drop of the temperature sensor 10 is calculated in step 300, and the value v = ΔT is calculated in step 301.
When / Δt is larger than the set value V, the routine proceeds to step 303, where the ice making completion set temperature is reduced.

Embodiment 4 In the third embodiment, the cooling operation is estimated to be continuous for a long time by calculating the temperature drop speed of the temperature sensor 10. However, the continuous operation time of the direct cooling operation is measured, and the time is set to a certain set value. By switching to lower the ice making completion set temperature when the temperature exceeds W, the same effect as in the third embodiment can be obtained. FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of the control. 11, when it exceeds the set time W with continuous time T _C of the cooling operation, as shown, and -20 ° C. The ice-making completion temperature setting by step 401 of FIG. 11. Step 40
By proceeding to 6, the ice removing operation can be performed after the water in the ice tray 6 is completely frozen.

Embodiment 5 Hereinafter, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In FIG. 12, reference numeral 60 denotes a first temperature sensor which is attached to the ice tray 6 and detects water supply and ice completion based on the temperature of the ice tray 6.
Reference numeral 71 denotes a first control unit which receives the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 60 and outputs the temperature to the ice removal device 53 and the water supply device 61. A second sensor 67 is provided in the freezing room and detects the indoor temperature.
A temperature sensor 66, a defrost heater 66 for removing frost attached to the cooler 17, a third temperature sensor 69 mounted on the upper side of the cooler 17 for detecting the defrost temperature, and a second temperature sensor 72 67, a signal from the third temperature sensor 69 and the first control unit 71, and a fan motor 65,
This is a second control unit that outputs to the compressor 70 and the defrost heater 66. FIG. 13 is a control flowchart of the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 60 and the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6 according to the fifth embodiment.

The operation of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker constructed as described above will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.
Temperature T _{2 of} the second temperature sensor 67 installed in the freezer compartment
Is higher than -15 ° C (step 131), the compressor 7
0 and the fan motor 65 is turned on (step 132,
133). And operating the operation-accumulation-timer t ₂ of the compressor 70. The temperature of the second temperature sensor 67 is -2.
If it is 1 ° C. or less (step 135), the compressor 70 and the fan motor 65 are turned off (steps 136 and 137), and the temperature T _{2 of} the second temperature sensor 67 is −21 ° C. <T ₂ <1
If the temperature is 5 ° C., the compressor 70 and the fan motor 65 maintain the same state. The accumulated operation time t ₂ of the compressor 70
Is longer than y hours and the detected temperature T3 of the _third temperature sensor 69 for detecting the defrost temperature is 8 ° C. or lower, the defrost heater 66 is turned on (steps 138 to 140). Also t
_If the detected temperature T _{3 of} the third temperature sensor 69 is T ₃ > 8 ° C. even if ₂ is equal to or longer than y time, the timer t ₂ is reset since the defrosting is not necessary, and the process returns to the main routine (step 138). , 139, 143). Step 140
When the defrost heater 66 is turned on and the third temperature sensor 69 becomes 14 ° C. or higher, the defrost is terminated and the defrost heater 66 is turned off.
F to return to the main routine to reset the timer t ₂ (step 141, 142, 143). Turn on the compressor 70, fan motor 65, and defrost heater 66 in a subroutine
After the determination of / OFF, the first detection of the temperature of the ice tray 6 is performed.
If the detected temperature T ₁ of the temperature sensor 60 is T ₁ <−12 ° C., the ice making is completed and the compressor 70 is again executed in the subroutine.
ON / OFF of the fan motor 65 and the defrost heater 66 is determined (step 114). If the detected temperature T _{1 of} the third temperature sensor 69 is T ₁ ≦ −12 ° C., the ice making is completed and the compressor 70, the fan motor 65, and the defrost heater 66 determined in the subroutine are ON / OFF. Then, the fan motor 65 is forcibly turned on and the defrost heater 66 is forcibly turned off (steps 114 to 117). Subsequently, the ice release device 53 and the water supply device 61 are operated (steps 118 and 119). If the temperature T ₁ of the ice tray 56 detected by the first temperature sensor 60 becomes T ₁ ≧ −5 ° C., it is determined that the water supply is completed, the t ₁ timer for counting the time after the water supply is cleared, and the process returns to the subroutine ( Steps 120 and 12
3). The detected temperature T _{1 of} the first temperature sensor 60 is T ₁ <
If it is −5 ° C., the t ₁ timer for counting the time after water supply is operated (steps 120 and 121). And t
Until _one timer counts a certain period of time x, it is determined whether or not the detected temperature T _{1 of} the first temperature sensor 60 is T ₁ ≧ −5 ° C. (Steps 120 to 12).
2) If t ₁ > x (step 122), the water supply is not completed, the t ₁ timer is cleared, and the routine returns to the subroutine.

The above operation is performed by the first temperature sensor shown in FIG.
-60 shows the relationship between the detected temperature and the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6.
This will be described with reference to characteristic diagrams. Temperature detected by first temperature sensor 60
Degree T ₁ Is T₁ When the temperature reaches <-12 ° C, ice is removed and water is supplied.
Since water is supplied to the plate 6, the temperature of the first temperature sensor 60
The degree gradually rises. At this time, the compressor 70 is forced to operate.
And the defrost heater 66 is forcibly stopped.
Therefore, the heat load is stable and the first temperature sensor 60
The temperature curve also becomes almost constant. In the case of conventional
Even if no water is supplied to the ice tray 6, the defrost heater 66 operates.
The temperature of the first temperature sensor 60 also rises
Erroneously detected that water was supplied.

Embodiment 6 FIG. In the fifth embodiment, the compressor 70 is forcibly operated when the defrosting heater 66 is forcibly stopped during the de-icing / water supply operation and for a certain period after the end of the operation. If the compressor 70 is operating at the start of the water supply operation, the compressor 70 may be forcibly operated, and if the compressor 70 is stopped, the compressor 70 may be forcibly stopped. The detected temperature of the first temperature sensor 60 after FIG.
Since the temperature is slightly different as shown in FIG. 6, the temperature at which the water supply is determined to be complete is determined by the compressor 70 as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
(Steps 150 to 153).

Embodiment 7 Hereinafter, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Since the refrigerator main body and the automatic ice making device are the same as the conventional example, the description is omitted. In FIG. 17, reference numeral 60 denotes a first temperature sensor which is attached to the ice tray 6 and detects water supply and completion of ice making based on the temperature of the ice tray 6. Reference numeral 73 denotes an operation rate calculation device that calculates the operation rate of the compressor 70 after the operation of the water supply device 61 ends. Reference numeral 71 denotes a first control unit that inputs the detected temperature of the first temperature sensor 60 and the operation rate calculated by the operation rate calculation device 73 and outputs the input to the ice removal device 53 and the water supply device 61. 6
Reference numeral 7 denotes a second temperature sensor that is installed in the freezing room and detects the temperature of the freezing room. The second control unit 72 receives the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor 67 and outputs the temperature to the compressor 70. Have been. FIG. 18 is a control flowchart of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 19 is a normal time, and FIG. 20 is a temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 60, the temperature of water in the ice tray 6, and the compression during continuous operation of the compressor. FIG. 7 is a characteristic diagram showing a relationship with an operation state of the machine 70.

Next, the operation will be described. In the case of the normal cooling operation, as shown in FIG. 19, the difference between the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6 and the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 60 does not become so large. If the difference is within 6 deg, the first
For example, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 60 reaches −12 ° C. as in the present embodiment, it is determined that ice making is completed (the actual ice temperature is −5 ° C.), and the ice making operation is performed. Ice in the ice storage box 20
Can be dropped. However, for example, as shown in FIG. 20, the door (not shown) of the freezer compartment is frequently opened and closed,
In the case of a special operation mode such as the rapid cooling operation, the compressor 70 performs the cooling operation continuously for a long time, so that the temperature of the water in the ice tray 6 and the first temperature sensor 60 The temperature difference between the first temperature sensor 60 and the first temperature sensor 60 increases even if all the water in the ice tray 6 is not frozen.
Temperature reaches -12 ° C. Therefore, the calculation of the operation rate of the compressor 70 is started from the end of the water supply operation (that is, the start of ice making) (steps 169 → 170 → 161), and the operation rate A (%) is larger than a certain set value B (%). If this is the case (in the case of “YES” in step 162), the ice-making completion set temperature is switched to −20 ° C. in the present embodiment (step 163), so that the water in the ice tray 6 is completely frozen, and then the deicing operation is performed. Can be performed (steps 165-1).
67). Further, since the operation rate of the compressor 70 up to the previous time is once cleared at the end of the water supply operation (Step 169), when the continuous operation of the compressor 70 is canceled and the normal operation is performed (when “NO” in Step 162) Sets the ice making completion temperature to -12
° C.

Embodiment 8 FIG. In the seventh embodiment, the ice making completion temperature is provided in two stages, and the ice making completion temperature is switched by comparing the operation rate of the compressor 70 with a certain set value B%, as shown in FIG. The ice making completion temperature and the operation rate of the compressor 70 may be set in three or more stages in advance. Further, as shown in FIG. 22, the ice release condition may be set as a function of changing the ice making completion temperature depending on the operation rate of the compressor 70 from the end of the water supply operation.

Embodiment 9 In the eighth embodiment, the case where the operation rate of the compressor 70 is cleared at the end of the water supply operation has been described. However, the operation rate may be cleared at the end of the ice removal operation, and the same effect as in the eighth embodiment is obtained.

Embodiment 10 FIG. Hereinafter, a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, a program stored in a ROM (not shown) arranged in a microcomputer is changed.

The operation of the tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the schematic flowchart of FIG. First, in step 171, it is determined whether the automatic ice making device is operating. If the automatic ice making device is operating (F = 1), the process proceeds to step 176, where the driving elements such as the compressor, the blower, and the damper are turned off and stopped. If the automatic ice making is stopped in step 171, the process proceeds to (F = 0) step 172, and if there is a request for ice removal, the process proceeds to step 173. If it is determined in step 173 that the compressor is in operation, the process proceeds to step 174. If the operation time of the compressor exceeds a predetermined time in step 174, step 1 is performed.
Proceed to 75 and stop the compressor to operate the automatic ice maker.

Embodiment 11 FIG. Hereinafter, an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 24 is a block diagram of the control. The ice release device 3 is arranged in an ice making room and is controlled by the control device 31. The control device 31 includes a counter for counting the number of times (n) the ice removing device has been driven from when the water receiving tray is installed to when it is removed and a timer for counting the ice making time (t) from the ice removing operation to the ice removing operation. Hold. Reference numeral 82 denotes a display device that turns on or off in response to a signal from the control device 31, and is activated by an input from the control device 31. Reference numeral 83 denotes a switch for detecting that the water tray is installed, and is configured to output a signal to the control device 31.

Next, the operation of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, it is detected in step 201 that the water tray is installed, and if it is determined in step 202 that a warning is to be displayed, the display device 82 is turned on in step 203. Thereafter, if it is determined in step 204 that the water tray is not installed, the display device in step 205 is turned off, and this control is repeated.

The determination of the warning in step 202 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, step 206
If it is detected in step 207 that the water tray is installed, it is determined in step 207 whether or not the ice making time (t) counted by the timer in the control device 31 exceeds a specified time (T). If so, a decision is made in step 210 to issue a warning. Next, if it is determined in step 208 that the ice-removing operation is being performed, step 20 is performed.
In 9 it is determined whether the counter for counting the number of ice making (n) in the control device 31 has exceeded a prescribed number (N),
If so, a decision is made in step 210 to issue a warning. If the water tray has been removed in step 206, the ice making time (n) by the counter in the control device 31 is reset to an initial value in step 211 as well as the ice making time (t) by the timer in the control device 31. On the other hand, when the ice removing operation is not performed in step 208, and when the number of ice making (n) does not reach the specified value (N) in step 209, the above determination is repeated as it is. n) That is, the number of times of water supply is the specified number of times (N)
Is exceeded, and when it is determined that the ice making time (t) exceeds the specified time (T) and the water in the water receiving tray has been left for a long time, a warning can be issued by the display device.

Embodiment 12 FIG. Hereinafter, a twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the control. The ice release device 3 is arranged in an ice making room and is controlled by the control device 31. Reference numeral 82 denotes a display device that turns on or off in response to a signal from the control device 31, and is activated by an input from the control device 31. A switch 83 detects that the water tray is installed, and outputs a signal to the control device 31. Reference numeral 84 denotes a detection device for detecting dirt on the water tray, and is configured to output a signal to the control device 31.

Next, the operation of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker constituted as described above is the same as that of the flowchart shown in FIG.

The determination of the warning in step 202 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, step 216
If it is detected at step 217 that the water receiving tray is installed, the degree of dirt in the water receiving tray is determined at step 217, and if it is determined that the water receiving tray is more dirty than the specified level, step 218 is performed.
Decides to give a warning. If the water pan is not installed in step 216, and if the degree of contamination in the water pan does not exceed the specified value in step 217,
Return to the start and repeat the above judgment.

Next, referring to FIG. 29, the water tray dirt detecting device will be described in detail. Reference numeral 95 denotes a reflection-type photo sensor provided on a water receiving tray, which is composed of a light emitting element 95a and a light receiving element 95b. A reflector (not shown) for reflecting light from the light emitting element 95a toward the light receiving element 95b is provided on the other side of the water receiving tray. The light emitted from the light emitting element 95a is reflected by the reflection unit and enters the light receiving element 95b.
At this time, the voltage input to the inverting input terminal (-) of the comparator 98 is determined by the voltage applied to the light receiving element 95b. If this voltage is lower than the input voltage to the positive phase input terminal (+) determined by the resistances of 96a and 96b, "
The signal of "H" is output from the output terminal, and when the signal is high, "L"
Is output. The output “H” or “L” signal is processed by the control device 31 and a microcomputer installed therein. Since the voltage of the light receiving element 95b increases as the photocurrent due to the light from the light emitting element 95a increases, the surrounding resistance is adjusted to reduce the attenuation of the reflected light incident on the light receiving element 95a due to water or dirt on the water tray. An "H" signal can be output to the control device 31 when a predetermined value is exceeded.

Embodiment 13 FIG. Hereinafter, a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 30 and 31, reference numeral 1 denotes a refrigerator main body, and a water storage tank 1 is provided at the back of the refrigerator compartment 22.
2, an electric pump 24, an ice making device 3 including a water supply pipe 13, an ice tray 6, and an ice storage box 20 are arranged. Reference numeral 39 denotes a water purification device provided in the water storage tank 12, wherein a bag body 44 in which activated carbon 45 is sealed is fixed by a container 40 and a cap 41 and disposed in the water storage tank 12. Receiving the water storage tank 12 is a water receiving container 49, which is provided so as to keep a constant water level at all times, and additionally receives the electric pump 24, the ultraviolet lamp 50 and the lamp cover 51. The ultraviolet lamp 50 may be on or in the water, and the lamp cover 51 is installed at a position where light from the lamp does not directly hit other plastic parts. Since this embodiment is configured as described above, the water storage tank 12
When the water in the water passes through the water purification device 39, the chlorine content in the water is removed by the activated carbon 45, so that the water becomes so-called delicious water.
And accumulates in the water receiving container 49 at a constant water level. The water can be sterilized by the ultraviolet lamp 50. Then, the sterilized water passes through the electric pump 24 and the water supply pipe 13 to make ice.

FIGS. 32 to 34 show a time chart, a circuit diagram, and a flowchart of this control. Generally, the life of an ultraviolet lamp is said to be 2,000 hours, which is much shorter than the life of a refrigerator (for example, 10 years) of 87,600 hours, and needs to be extended by a control method. Accordingly, illuminating the lamp after the water supply of the electric pump 24, ₃ hours every T with a width of T ₂ hours ₁ hour after T as shown in Figure 32. Water is the time is cleared performed intermittently irradiated onto the ramp after again T ₁ times. With this control, the life of the ultraviolet lamp when installed in the refrigerator can be extended to the product life of the refrigerator. FIG. 33 is a circuit diagram of a portion related to the thirteenth embodiment.
The electric pump 24 and the ultraviolet lamp 50 are connected from the control board 52 connected to 3. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the control timing as a flow.

Embodiment 14 FIG. In the first embodiment,
3 only generates ultraviolet light, but the water receiving container 4
Stirring the water accumulated in 9 can further suppress the generation of bacteria and algae. When the electric pump 24 is rotated instantaneously, the water rises to a point in the water supply pipe 13 and then flows back into the water receiving container 49, whereby the water can be stirred by the flow of the water. Note that when the electric pump 24 rotates, the water level in the water receiving container 49 temporarily drops, and water enters through the outlet 48 of the cap. FIG. 35 and FIG. 36
It is a time chart and flow chart of the control in (from or after some) almost simultaneously with the timing of ultraviolet ray generator is to operate T ₄ hours only.

Embodiment 15 FIG. In the first embodiment,
In No. 4, an ultraviolet lamp was used for sterilization, but an ozonizer may be used. As shown in FIG. 37, the same effect can be obtained by attaching an ozone generator including an ozonizer terminal 56 and a high-voltage power supply 57 instead of the ultraviolet lamp 50.

Embodiment 16 FIG. Hereinafter, a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 38 and 39, reference numeral 1 denotes a refrigerator main body, and a water storage tank 1 is provided at the back of the refrigerator compartment 22.
2. An ice making device formed from the electric pump 24, the water supply pipe 13, the ice tray 6, and the ice storage box 20 is arranged. The door switch 58 is disposed on the front of the freezer and refrigerator compartment dividers and dividers. Reference numeral 39 denotes a water purification device provided in the water storage tank 12, wherein the bag body 44 in which the activated carbon 45 is sealed is fixed to the container 40 and the cap 47, and is disposed in the water storage tank 12. The water storage tank 12 is provided so as to always maintain a constant water level in a water receiving container 49, and also receives the electric pump 24, the ultraviolet lamp 50 and the lamp cover 51. The ultraviolet lamp 50 is connected to the door switch 58 and can operate even in water, and the lamp cover 51 is installed at a position where light from the lamp does not directly interfere with other plastic parts.

Since the sixteenth embodiment is configured as described above, the water in the water storage tank 12 is
, The chlorine content in the water is released by the activated carbon 45, the water becomes so-called delicious water, flows out from the outlet 48, and accumulates in the water receiving container 49 at a constant water level. The water can be sterilized with an ultraviolet lamp 50. Then, the sterilized water is led to the ice tray through the electric pump 24 and the water supply pipe. Considering the effect of ultraviolet rays on the human body, the lamp is turned off by a door switch when the door is open.

The control timing, circuit diagram and flow chart
FIGS. 40 to 42 show chart diagrams. one
Generally, the life of the UV lamp is said to be 2000 hours,
Compared to 87600 hours of shelf life (assuming 10 years)
Then, it is overwhelmingly short, and it is necessary to extend it by the control method.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. ₁ 
T after a lapse of time_Two T over time_Three Turn on lamp every hour
I do. This control extends the life of the UV lamp to the refrigerator
The product life can be extended.

However, when the door is open due to the harmfulness of the lamp, the irradiation of light is stopped. FIG. 41 is a circuit diagram of a portion related to this embodiment. The electric pump 24, the ultraviolet lamp 50, and the door switch 58 are connected from the control board 52 connected to the outlet 63. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the control flow.

Embodiment 17 FIG. In the first embodiment,
In 6, the door switch 58 operates in conjunction with the lamp to
Although N and OFF are controlled, a limit switch 59 is provided on a part of the fixed side of the detachable water receiving container 49 as shown in FIG. If not, stop turning on the lamp.

FIGS. 43 to 45 show the control timing, the circuit diagram and the flowchart. The control method is almost the same as that of the sixteenth embodiment, and FIG. 43 shows the control timing. FIG. 44 is a circuit diagram according to this embodiment. The electric pump 24, the ultraviolet lamp 50, and the door switch 58 are connected from the control board 52 connected to the outlet 63. FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the control flow.

[0053]

According to the present invention, a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker is provided.
A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker provided in a refrigerator compartment and having a water storage tank and a water tray connected to each other by piping and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing room, A water receiving tray detecting means for detecting that the light receiving device is installed; a reflective photosensor having a light emitting element and a light receiving element installed on the water receiving tray; and a light receiving element installed on the water receiving tray and directing light from the light emitting element to the light receiving element. A reflection unit for reflecting the light and a means for warning the cleaning of the water tray and the like when the attenuation of the reflected light to the light receiving element due to the water tray or water contamination exceeds a certain value. It is possible to warn that the water tray and the like need to be cleaned, and it is possible to prevent malfunction of the automatic ice maker, deterioration of the flavor of ice, and the like.

Further, they are provided in the refrigerator compartment and are connected to each other by piping.
The connected water tank and water pan, and from this water pan
A water supply pump that supplies water to the ice tray provided in the freezer
In the refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine
Take the water storage container connected to the water supply port of the storage tank on the storage room side.
Electric pump and UV lamp attached, electric pump
After a certain time (T₁ ) After a certain time (T_Two )
One fixed time interval (T _Three ) Irradiates the ultraviolet lamp
And a means to provide more delicious water
It has the effect of making ice.

Further, a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker having a water storage tank and a water receiving tray provided in the refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping, and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water receiving tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing room. In the automatic ice making device, the electric pump and the ultraviolet lamp attached to the water receiving container connected to the water supply port of the water storage tank on the side of the refrigerator compartment, the door switch attached to the refrigerator door, and the door after the electric pump is operated. Means for irradiating the ultraviolet lamp at fixed time intervals (T ₃ ) at fixed time intervals (T ₂ ) after a certain time (T ₁ ) if the doors are closed. When sterilizing the water accumulated in the water receiving container of the device with an ultraviolet lamp, it works in conjunction with the door switch and stops the operation of the ultraviolet lamp when the door is open, ensuring safety.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a characteristic diagram of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a characteristic diagram of the refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an ice making completion temperature characteristic diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an ice making completion temperature characteristic diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is an ice making completion temperature characteristic diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is an ice making completion temperature characteristic diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice making machine according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a schematic flowchart in Embodiment 10 of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 12 of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 12 of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a circuit diagram of a water tray dirt detection device according to Embodiment 12 of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a longitudinal sectional view of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a water supply container part of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a circuit diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 13 of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 14 of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 14 of the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a sectional view of a water supply container part of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 15 of the present invention.

FIG. 38 is a longitudinal sectional view of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of a water supply container part of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a circuit diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to Embodiment 16 of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a time chart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is a circuit diagram of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 46 is a sectional view of a water supply container part of a refrigerator with an automatic ice maker according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 48 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an ice tray of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice machine.

FIG. 50 is a flowchart of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 51 is a partial sectional view of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 52 is a flowchart of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 53 is a time chart of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 54 is a time chart of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

FIG. 55 is a flowchart of a conventional refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

[Explanation of symbols]

3 ice release device, 6 ice tray, 10 temperature sensor, 11
Water supply device, 12 water storage tank, 13 water supply pipe, 20
Water storage box, 22 refrigerator, 24 electric pump, 31 control unit (control means), 32 timer device, 39 water purification device, 40 container, 41 flange portion, 42 inflow port, 4
3 outlet, 44 bags, 45 activated carbon, 47 cap, 48 cap outlet, 49 water receiver, 50
UV lamp, 51 lamp cover, 52 control board, 53 ice release device, 56 ozonizer terminal, 57 high voltage power supply, 58 door switch, 59 limit switch, 60 first temperature sensor, 61 water supply device, 63
Outlet, 65 fan motor, 66 defrost heater, 67 second temperature sensor, 69 third temperature sensor, 70 compressor, 71 first control unit, 72 second
Control unit, 73 operation rate calculation device, 82 display device, 8
3 Water tray detection switch, 84 Water tray dirt detection device.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Kazuko Sasawa 3-18-1, Oka, Shizuoka-shi Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Shizuoka Works (72) Inventor Hiroto Kawahira 3-181-1, Oka, Shizuoka-shi Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Inside Shizuoka Works (72) Inventor Osamu Aoyagi 3-181-1, Oka, Shizuoka City Inside Shizuoka Works, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (72) Inventor Yasuhiro Yoshino 3-181-1, Oka, Shizuoka City Inside Shizuoka Works, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker provided with a water storage tank and a water receiving tray provided in a refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping, and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water receiving tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing compartment. In the above, the water receiving tray detecting means for detecting that the water receiving tray is installed, a reflective photosensor having a light emitting element and a light receiving element installed in the water receiving tray, and the light emitting element being installed in the water receiving tray A reflection unit for reflecting light from the light receiving element toward the light receiving element, and when the attenuation of the reflected light to the light receiving element due to the dirt of the water or the water exceeds a predetermined value, cleaning of the water receiving pan or the like. A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker, comprising: a warning unit. 2. A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker having a water storage tank and a water tray provided in a refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping, and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing room. , An electric pump and an ultraviolet lamp attached to a water receiving container connected to a water supply port of a water storage tank on the side of the refrigerator compartment of the automatic ice making device; and a certain time (T ₁ ) after a certain time (T ₁ ) after the operation of the electric pump. ₂ ) A means for irradiating the ultraviolet lamp at regular time intervals (T ₃ ). 3. A refrigerator with an automatic ice maker having a water storage tank and a water receiving tray provided in a refrigerator compartment and connected to each other by piping, and a water supply pump for supplying water from the water receiving tray to an ice tray provided in the freezing room. In the automatic ice making device, an electric pump and an ultraviolet lamp attached to a water receiving container connected to a water supply port of a water storage tank on the side of the refrigerator compartment of the automatic ice making device, a door switch attached to a refrigerator door, and after the operation of the electric pump, Means for irradiating the ultraviolet lamp at predetermined time intervals (T ₃ ) at predetermined time intervals (T ₂ ) after a predetermined time (T ₁ ) if the door is closed. With refrigerator.