KR102617277B1 - Refrigerator and method for controlling the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The method of controlling a refrigerator of the present invention includes the steps of operating a first cooling cycle for a first storage compartment to operate the compressor and operating the first cooling fan for the first storage compartment; When the stop condition of the first cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a second cooling cycle for cooling the second storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating a second cooling fan for cooling the second storage compartment; When the stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a third cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating the first cooling fan; And when the stop condition of the third cooling cycle is satisfied, a pump down operation is performed, and when switching from the first cooling cycle to the second cooling cycle, the first cooling fan continues to operate. , Controlling the output of the first cooling fan to be reduced during operation of the second cooling cycle, based on a change in temperature of one or more of the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the first evaporator for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment. do.

Description

Refrigerator and method for controlling the same {Refrigerator and method for controlling the same}

This specification relates to a refrigerator and its control method.

A refrigerator is a home appliance that can store objects such as food at low temperatures in a storage room provided in a cabinet. Since the storage compartment is surrounded by an insulating wall, the inside of the storage compartment can be maintained at a temperature lower than the outside temperature.

Depending on the temperature range of the storage compartment, the storage compartment may be divided into a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment.

Recently, refrigerators have been developed in which evaporators are installed in each of the freezer and refrigerator compartments. In such a refrigerator, the refrigerant flows to one of the evaporators in each of the cold room and the refrigeration room and then flows to the other evaporator.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0065192, a prior document, discloses a refrigerator and its control method.

In the case of the refrigerator control method in the prior literature, the refrigeration cycle is started when the refrigeration cycle start condition is satisfied while the refrigeration cycle is operating. The freezer fan operates during operation of the refrigeration cycle, and the freezer fan continues to operate without stopping even after the refrigeration cycle begins.

In this way, when the freezer fan operates after the refrigeration cycle is stopped, the refrigerant in the freezer evaporator can be recovered by the compressor, and the air is cooled by the latent heat of evaporation of the freezer evaporator, so that freezer cooling can be maintained for a certain period of time.

In the case of the prior literature, the freezer fan operates while maintaining the previous output, that is, the output in the refrigeration cycle, until the stop condition of the freezer fan is satisfied.

However, the temperature of the freezer evaporator rises while the freezer fan operates, and the temperature difference between the temperature of the freezer and the freezer evaporator decreases, reducing heat exchange efficiency. However, the output of the freezer fan remains the same as before, so the freezer fan's It has the disadvantage of causing unnecessary power consumption during operation.

This embodiment provides a refrigerator and a control method thereof in which power consumption can be reduced by gradually reducing output while the first cooling fan operating in the first cooling cycle operates without stopping after the first cooling cycle is stopped. do.

In addition, this embodiment provides a refrigerator and a control method thereof in which power consumption is reduced by adjusting the output of the first cooling fan in the third cooling cycle that starts after the second cooling cycle is stopped.

A method of controlling a refrigerator according to one aspect includes operating a first cooling cycle for a first storage compartment to operate a compressor and operating a first cooling fan for the first storage compartment; When the stop condition of the first cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a second cooling cycle for cooling the second storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating a second cooling fan for cooling the second storage compartment; When the stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a third cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating the first cooling fan; performing a pump-down operation when the stop condition of the third cooling cycle is satisfied; and turning off the compressor when the pump down operation is completed, wherein when switching from the first cooling cycle to the second cooling cycle, the first cooling fan continues to operate, Controlling the output of the first cooling fan to be gradually reduced during operation of the second cooling cycle, based on a change in temperature of one or more of the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the first evaporator for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment. It is characterized by being

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The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when the second cooling cycle operates, and when the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the first reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates at a first initial output lower than the first initial output. 1 Can operate with reduced output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first reduction output, if the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the second reference temperature value that is greater than the first reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates at the first reduction output. It may operate with a second reduced output lower than the output.

If the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than a third reference temperature value that is greater than the second reference temperature value while the first cooling fan operates at the second reduction output, the first cooling fan is stopped, or the first cooling fan is stopped. After operating at a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output, it may be stopped when a set time has elapsed, or it may be continuously operated at the third reduction output until the stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied.

During the pump down operation, the first cooling fan operates at a second initial output, and the output of the first cooling fan may be reduced one or more times until it is stopped.

If the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the fourth reference temperature value while the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, the first cooling fan may operate at a fourth reduction output lower than the second initial output. You can.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output, if the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the fifth reference temperature value that is greater than the fourth reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates at the fourth reduction output. It can operate with a fifth reduction output lower than the output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fifth reduction output, if the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the sixth reference temperature value that is greater than the fifth reference temperature value, the first cooling fan is stopped or the first cooling fan is stopped. After operating with the 6th reduction output lower than the 5th reduction output, it may be stopped when a set time has elapsed.

The third reference temperature value may be equal to or greater than the fourth reference temperature value. Alternatively, the fourth reference temperature value may be greater than the first reference temperature value.

The difference value between the first reference temperature value and the second reference temperature value may be equal to or greater than the difference value between the second reference temperature value and the third reference temperature value.

The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when operating the second cooling cycle, and in the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first initial output, the temperature of the first evaporator and the first storage compartment If the temperature difference value is smaller than the first reference difference value, the first cooling fan may operate with a first reduced output lower than the first initial output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first reduction output, if the difference value between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the second reference difference value, the first cooling fan It may operate with a second reduction output that is lower than the first reduction output. The second reference difference value is smaller than the first reference difference value.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the second reduction output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is less than a third reference difference value, the first cooling fan is stopped. Alternatively, it may be operated at a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output and then stopped when a set time has elapsed. The third reference difference value is smaller than the second reference difference value.

While the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the fourth reference difference, the first cooling fan 2 It can operate with a fourth reduced output lower than the initial output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the fifth reference difference value that is smaller than the fourth reference difference value , the first cooling fan may operate at a fifth reduction output that is lower than the fourth reduction output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fifth reduction output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the sixth reference difference value that is smaller than the fifth reference difference value , the first cooling fan may be stopped, or may be stopped when a set time has elapsed after operating at a sixth reduction output lower than the fifth reduction output.

The first reference difference value may be greater than the fourth reference difference value. Alternatively, at least one of the first to second reference difference values may be equal to at least one of the fourth to sixth reference difference values.

The difference between the first and second reference differences may be equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third reference differences.

The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when the second cooling cycle operates, and when the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the first set value, the first cooling fan operates at a first initial output lower than the first initial output. 1 Can operate with reduced output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan with the first reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the second set value, the first cooling fan operates with a second reduction output lower than the first reduction output. It can work. The second set value is smaller than the first set value.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the second reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the third set value, the first cooling fan is stopped, or the third cooling fan is lowered than the second reduction output. After operating with reduced output, it may stop after a set time has elapsed. The third set value is smaller than the second set value.

During the pump down operation, while the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the fourth set value, the first cooling fan operates at the second initial output lower than the second initial output. 4 Can operate with reduced output.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the fifth set value that is smaller than the fourth set value, the first cooling fan operates at the fourth reduction output. It can operate at a lower fifth reduction power.

In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fifth reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the sixth set value that is less than the fifth set value, the first cooling fan is stopped or the first cooling fan is stopped. After operating with the 6th reduction output lower than the 5th reduction output, it may be stopped when a set time has elapsed.

The difference between the first set value and the second set value may be equal to or greater than the difference between the second set value and the third set value.

The average output of the first cooling fan after starting the pump-down operation may be greater than the average output of the first cooling fan in the second cooling cycle. Additionally, the operating time of the first cooling fan after starting the pump down operation may be greater than the operating time of the first cooling fan in the second cooling cycle.

If the operation time of the first cooling fan reaches a time limit while the first cooling fan is operating at the first initial output, first reduced output, or second reduced output, the first cooling fan may be turned off. .

In the first cooling cycle, the first cooling fan operates with a first reference output, and the first initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first reference output.

In the third cooling cycle, the first cooling fan operates at a second reference output, and the second reference output may be maintained constant or decreased one or more times during operation of the third cooling cycle.

When the third cooling cycle is operated, the first cooling fan operates at the second reference output, and when the temperature of the first refrigerating compartment falls below the reduction reference value, the first cooling fan operates at a reduced output compared to the second reference output. It can operate as an output.

Alternatively, when operating the third cooling cycle, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the set temperature of the first storage compartment, the first cooling fan may operate at the second reference output. Additionally, when the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the set temperature of the first storage compartment, the first cooling fan may operate with a third reference output that is smaller than the second reference output.

Alternatively, when operating the third cooling cycle, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the first reduction reference value, the first cooling fan may operate at the second reference output. Additionally, when the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the second reduction reference value, the first cooling fan may operate with a third reference output lower than the second reference output. Additionally, when the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the second reduction reference value, the first cooling fan may operate with a fourth reference output lower than the third reference output.

The first reduction reference value is greater than the set temperature of the first storage compartment, and the second reduction reference value is less than the set temperature of the first storage compartment.

A refrigerator according to the present invention includes a compressor that compresses refrigerant; a first evaporator that receives refrigerant from the compressor and generates cold air to cool the first storage compartment; a first cooling fan for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment; a second evaporator that receives refrigerant from the compressor and generates cold air for a second storage compartment; a second cooling fan for supplying cold air to the second storage compartment; a valve that selectively opens one of a first refrigerant passage connecting the refrigerant to flow between the compressor and the first evaporator and a second refrigerant passage connecting the refrigerant to flow between the compressor and the second evaporator; and a control unit that controls the first cooling fan, the second cooling fan, and the valve, wherein the control unit operates the compressor and the first cooling fan to cool the first storage compartment, and the control unit operates the compressor and the first cooling fan to cool the first storage compartment. 1 When the cooling of the storage compartment is completed, the compressor and the second cooling fan are operated to cool the second storage compartment, and when the cooling of the second storage compartment is completed, the compressor is operated to cool the first storage compartment again. and a refrigerator that operates the first fan, performs a pump-down operation when re-cooling of the first storage compartment is completed, and stops operation of the compressor when the pump-down operation is completed, and the control unit is configured to: 2 The first cooling fan is operated in the process of cooling the storage compartment, and the first cooling is performed based on a change in temperature of one or more of the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the first evaporator for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment. The fan's output can be controlled to be gradually reduced.

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According to the proposed embodiment, after the first cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment is stopped, the first cooling fan for the first storage compartment operates and the output is gradually reduced, thereby reducing power consumption. there is.

Additionally, in this embodiment, power consumption can be reduced by adjusting the output of the first cooling fan in the third cooling cycle that starts after the second cooling cycle stops.

In addition, the first cooling fan operates even after the pump down operation is completed, but the output of the first cooling fan is gradually reduced, which has the advantage of minimizing the increase in power consumption while preventing the temperature of the first storage compartment from increasing. there is.

1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a flowchart schematically explaining a refrigerator control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a diagram showing the change in temperature of the refrigerating compartment and the output of the refrigerating compartment fan during operation of the cooling cycle.
Figure 5 is a diagram showing the temperature change of the evaporator for the refrigerator during operation of the cooling cycle.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through illustrative drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical components are given the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if detailed descriptions of related known configurations or functions are judged to impede understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Additionally, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, sequence, or order of the component is not limited by the term. When a component is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, that component may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there is no need for another component between each component. It should be understood that may be “connected,” “combined,” or “connected.”

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet 10 in which a freezing chamber 111 and a refrigerating chamber 112 are formed, and the refrigerator 1 is coupled to the cabinet 10. It may include doors (not shown) that open and close the freezer compartment 111 and the refrigerator compartment 112, respectively.

The freezing compartment 111 and the refrigerating compartment 112 may be partitioned left and right or up and down inside the cabinet 10 by a partition wall 113.

The refrigerator (1) includes a compressor (21), a condenser (22), an expansion member (23), and an evaporator (24) for the freezer compartment (or “second evaporator”) for cooling the freezer compartment (111). ) and an evaporator 25 for the refrigerating compartment (or “first evaporator”) for cooling the refrigerating compartment 112.

The refrigerator 1 may include a switching valve 26 for allowing the refrigerant that has passed through the expansion member 23 to flow to one of the freezer evaporator 24 and the refrigerator compartment evaporator 25.

In the present invention, the state in which the switching valve 26 is operated so that the refrigerant flows to the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator can be referred to as the first state of the switching valve 26. In addition, the state in which the switching valve 26 is operated so that the refrigerant flows to the evaporator 24 for the freezer can be referred to as the first state of the switching valve 26. The switching valve 26 may be a three-way valve, for example.

The switching valve 26 is connected to a first refrigerant passage that allows the refrigerant to flow between the compressor 21 and the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator, and between the compressor 21 and the evaporator 24 for the freezer. Any one of the second refrigerant passages connecting the refrigerant to flow therebetween can be selectively opened. Cooling of the refrigerating compartment 112 and cooling of the freezing compartment 111 can be performed alternately by this switching valve 26.

The refrigerator 1 includes a freezer fan 28 (can be referred to as a “second cooling fan”) for blowing air to the freezer evaporator 24, and a second motor for rotating the freezer fan 28. (27), a refrigerating compartment fan 29 (can be referred to as a “first cooling fan”) for blowing air to the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25, and a first motor 30 for rotating the refrigerating compartment fan 29 ) may further be included.

In the present invention, a series of cycles in which the refrigerant flows through the compressor 21, the condenser 22, the expansion member 23, and the evaporator 24 for the freezer is called a "refrigeration cycle", and the refrigerant flows through the compressor 21, A series of cycles flowing through the condenser 22, the expansion member 23, and the evaporator 25 for the refrigerating room will be referred to as a “refrigerating cycle.”

And, “the refrigeration cycle operates” means that the compressor 21 is turned on, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 rotates, and the refrigerant flows through the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25 by the switching valve 26, This means that the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment and the air exchange heat.

In addition, “the refrigeration cycle is operating” means that the compressor 21 is turned on, the freezer compartment fan 298 rotates, and the refrigerant flows through the evaporator 24 for the freezer compartment by the switching valve 26. This means that the refrigerant flowing through the practical evaporator 24 and the air exchange heat.

In the above description, one expansion member 23 is described as being located upstream of the switching valve 26. However, unlike this, a first expansion member is provided between the switching valve 26 and the evaporator 24 for the refrigerating room. is provided, and it is also possible for a second expansion member to be provided between the switching valve 26 and the freezing chamber evaporator 25.

As another example, the switching valve 26 is not used, and a refrigerating compartment valve (first valve) is provided on the inlet side of the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25, and a refrigerating compartment valve (first valve) is provided on the inlet side of the freezing compartment evaporator 24. It is also possible to have a valve for the freezer (second valve). Also, when the refrigeration cycle is operating, the freezer valve is turned on and the refrigerator valve is turned off, and when the refrigeration cycle is operating, the freezer valve is turned off and the refrigerator valve is turned on.

The refrigerator 1 includes a freezer compartment temperature sensor 41 for detecting the temperature of the freezer compartment 111, a refrigerator compartment temperature sensor 42 for detecting the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 112, and a freezer compartment 111. and an input unit (not shown) for inputting the set temperature (or target temperature) of each of the refrigerator compartments 112, and a cooling cycle (freezing cycle) based on the input set temperature and the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 41 and 42. and a control unit 50 that controls the refrigeration cycle.

In addition, the refrigerator 1 includes a first evaporator sensor 43 for detecting the temperature of the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment or the temperature around the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment, and a temperature sensor 43 for the evaporator 24 for the freezer compartment. Alternatively, it may further include a second evaporator sensor 44 for detecting the temperature around the evaporator 24 for the freezer.

In this specification, a temperature lower than the set temperature of the freezer compartment 111 is referred to as the first freezer compartment reference temperature (or third reference temperature), and a temperature higher than the set temperature of the freezer compartment 111 is referred to as the second freezer compartment reference temperature (or It can be called the fourth standard temperature). Additionally, the range between the first freezer reference temperature and the second freezer reference temperature may be referred to as the set temperature range of the freezer.

Although not limited, the set temperature of the freezer compartment 111 may be an average temperature of the first freezer compartment reference temperature and the second freezer compartment reference temperature.

Additionally, in this specification, a temperature lower than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is referred to as the first refrigerating compartment reference temperature (or first reference temperature), and a temperature higher than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is referred to as the second refrigerating compartment reference temperature. It can be called (second reference temperature). Additionally, the range between the first refrigerating compartment reference temperature and the second refrigerating compartment reference temperature may be referred to as the set temperature range of the refrigerating compartment.

Although not limited, the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 may be the average temperature of the first refrigerating compartment reference temperature and the second refrigerating compartment reference temperature.

In the present invention, the user can set the set temperature of each of the freezer compartment 111 and the refrigerator compartment 112.

The control unit 50 may control the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 to be maintained within a temperature satisfaction range within the refrigerating compartment set temperature range. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may maintain the temperature of the freezer compartment 111 within a temperature satisfaction range that falls within the freezer compartment set temperature range.

At this time, the upper limit temperature of the temperature satisfaction section may be set to be equal to or lower than the reference temperature of the second refrigerating compartment, and the lower limit temperature may be set to be equal to or higher than the reference temperature of the first refrigerating compartment.

In the present invention, the control unit 50 can control the first refrigeration cycle, freezing cycle, second refrigeration cycle, and pump down operation to form one operation cycle. Alternatively, in the present invention, the control unit 50 may control the first refrigeration cycle, refrigeration cycle, second refrigeration cycle, pump down operation, and stopping of the compressor for a certain period of time to form one operation cycle.

In this embodiment, the refrigerating compartment 112 may be referred to as a first storage compartment, and the freezing compartment 111 may be referred to as a second storage compartment.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the first refrigeration cycle is a cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment, and may be referred to as a first cooling cycle.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle is a cooling cycle for cooling the second storage compartment, and may be referred to as a second cooling cycle.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the second refrigeration cycle is a cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment, and may be referred to as a third cooling cycle.

In this embodiment, the pump-down operation operates the compressor 21 with the refrigerant supply to all of the plurality of evaporators 24 and 25 blocked, thereby transferring the refrigerant remaining in each evaporator 24 and 25 to the compressor 21. ) means driving to collect.

The control unit 50 operates the first refrigeration cycle, and when the stop condition of the first refrigeration cycle (can also be referred to as the start condition of the refrigeration cycle) is satisfied, it can operate the refrigeration cycle.

Also, if the stop condition of the refrigeration cycle is satisfied while operating the refrigeration cycle, the control unit 50 may operate the second refrigeration cycle. And, when the stop condition of the second refrigeration cycle is satisfied, the pump down operation can be performed.

In this embodiment, the smaller the width of the set temperature range, the smaller the temperature change range of the food, thus improving the freshness of the food. However, the smaller the width of the set temperature range, the shorter the switching cycle of the switching valve 26 and the shorter the pump down operation cycle.

However, since the pump-down operation is not an operation for cooling the storage room, a shortened pump-down operation cycle means that the pump-down operation time is relatively increased, so there is a risk of increased power consumption.

Accordingly, in this embodiment, a refrigerator control method for reducing power consumption by controlling the refrigerator compartment fan 29 as an example is disclosed.

Meanwhile, the refrigerator 1 of the present invention may further include a memory 45 in which the temperatures of each of the freezing compartment 111 and the refrigerating compartment 112 are stored during the operation of the cooling cycle.

Additionally, the memory 45 may store a reference temperature value for output control of the cooling fans 28 and 29, which will be described later.

Hereinafter, the refrigerator control method of the present invention will be described.

Figure 3 is a flowchart for schematically explaining a control method of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 is a diagram showing the change in temperature of the refrigerator compartment and the change in output of the refrigerator compartment fan during operation of the cooling cycle, and Figure 5 is This is a diagram showing the temperature change of the evaporator for the refrigerator room during cooling cycle operation.

3 to 5, the refrigerator 1 is turned on (S1). When the refrigerator 1 is turned on, the refrigerator 1 may operate to cool the freezer compartment 111 or the refrigerator compartment 112.

Hereinafter, a refrigerator control method for cooling the freezer compartment 111 after cooling the refrigerator compartment 112 will be described as an example.

In order to cool the refrigerating compartment 112, the control unit 50 operates the first refrigeration cycle (S2).

As an example, the control unit 50 may turn on the compressor 21 and rotate the refrigerating compartment fan 29. Then, the switching valve 26 is switched to the first state so that the refrigerant flows into the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment. Alternatively, the refrigerator compartment valve may be turned on and the freezer compartment valve may be turned off.

The refrigerating compartment fan 29 in the first refrigerating cycle may be operated at a first reference output. In this specification, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be, for example, the number of rotations. Therefore, adjusting the output of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 may mean adjusting the rotation speed.

And, when the first refrigeration cycle operates, the freezer fan 28 remains stopped.

Then, the refrigerant that has been compressed in the compressor 21 and passed through the condenser 22 flows into the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator through the switching valve 26. Then, the refrigerant evaporated while flowing through the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment flows back into the compressor 21.

And, the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25 is supplied to the refrigerating compartment 112. Accordingly, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 decreases, while the temperature of the freezing compartment 111 increases.

While the first refrigeration cycle is operating, the control unit 50 determines whether the stop condition of the first refrigeration cycle is satisfied (S3). That is, the control unit 50 determines whether the start condition of the refrigeration cycle is satisfied.

For example, when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 falls below the first refrigerating compartment reference temperature (-Diff), the control unit 50 may determine that the condition for stopping the refrigerating cycle is satisfied.

As a result of the determination in step S3, if it is determined that the stop condition of the refrigeration cycle is satisfied, the control unit 50 operates the refrigeration cycle (S4).

For example, the control unit 50 switches the switching valve 26 to the second state so that the refrigerant can flow to the evaporator 24 for the freezer. Alternatively, the freezer valve is turned on and the refrigerator valve is turned off. Then, the freezer fan 28 operates.

However, even when the first refrigeration cycle is switched to the refrigeration cycle, the compressor 21 does not stop and continues to operate.

In addition, even when the first refrigeration cycle is switched to the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 does not stop and continues to operate.

Additionally, the freezer compartment fan 28 may operate simultaneously with the refrigerating compartment fan 29 being stopped or after the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped.

If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 continues to operate even after the first refrigerating cycle stops operating, the air is cooled by the latent heat of evaporation of the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25, thereby cooling the refrigerating compartment 112.

Accordingly, the refrigerating compartment 112 can be cooled even when the first refrigerating cycle is stopped, and the temperature rise of the refrigerating compartment 112 can be delayed.

At this time, referring to FIG. 5, after the first refrigeration cycle is stopped, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25 increases over time due to the operation of the refrigerating compartment fan 29.

When the temperature of the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25 increases, the temperature difference between the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 and the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25 decreases, thereby reducing heat exchange efficiency. If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates while the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is maintained while heat exchange efficiency is reduced, power is consumed unnecessarily.

Therefore, in this embodiment, in consideration of the increase in temperature of the refrigerating compartment evaporator 25, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can be controlled to decrease during the operation of the refrigerating cycle.

For example, the output of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced until it stops (see power saving section in FIG. 4).

However, after the refrigeration cycle is operated, the refrigerator door is opened, a defrost operation for defrosting the evaporator is started, or the set temperature is changed through the input unit, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 reaches a predetermined temperature. Control for reducing the output of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 is not performed until this happens.

In the above case, since there is a high risk that the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 will increase, no control is performed to control the output decrease of the refrigerating compartment fan 29, and the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is maintained at normal output. Make it work.

[First example of output control of refrigerator compartment fan during refrigeration cycle operation]

During operation of the refrigeration cycle, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43.

For example, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a first initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first initial output, if the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than the first reference temperature value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first initial output. 1 It can operate with a first reduced output lower than the initial output.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first reduction output, if the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than the second reference temperature value that is greater than the first reference temperature value, the The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a second reduction output that is lower than the first reduction output.

Also, when the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than a third reference temperature value that is greater than the second reference temperature value while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan (29) may be stopped or operated with a third reduction power lower than the second reduction power.

If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the third reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

In this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be reduced at least twice from the first initial output.

For example, the first initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first reference output.

When the first initial output is less than the first reference output, the first difference between the first reference output and the first initial output is greater than the second difference between the first reference output and the first reduced output. It can be less than or equal to.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the first reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of decrease in output from the first reference output to the first initial output.

Additionally, the second difference value between the first initial output and the first reduced output may be less than or equal to a third difference value between the first reduced output and the second reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first reduced output to the second reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decreased from the first initial output to the first reduced output.

In summary, in this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced, and the amount of output reduction may be increased or constant.

In this embodiment, the difference between the first and second reference temperatures may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third reference temperatures.

As an example, since the temperature of the evaporator for the refrigerator compartment is the lowest after the start of the refrigeration cycle, in order to maximize the latent heat of evaporation, the first initial output is set to the highest compared to other reduced outputs, and operates at the first initial output. The reference temperature values can be set so that the time is longer than the operating time with the remaining reduced output. These reference temperature values can be stored in the memory 45.

According to this embodiment, power consumption can be reduced by gradually reducing the output of the refrigerator compartment fan 29.

[Second example of output control of refrigerator compartment fan during refrigeration cycle operation]

During operation of the refrigeration cycle, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the refrigerating compartment temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42. .

Referring to FIG. 5, after the refrigeration cycle starts, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 decreases and then increases, and the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 increases and then remains at a constant temperature.

That is, after the refrigeration cycle starts operating, the difference between the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 and the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 gradually decreases.

Therefore, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be decreased step by step, for example, based on the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42. there is.

The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a first initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first initial output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is the first If it is smaller than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate with a first reduced output lower than the first initial output.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first reduction output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is a second If it is smaller than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate with a second reduction output lower than the first reduction output. At this time, the second reference difference value is smaller than the first reference difference value.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second reduction output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is the third If it is less than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be stopped or operated with a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output.

At this time, the third reference difference value is smaller than the second reference difference value. If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the third reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

At this time, when the operating time of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, control of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 is terminated. That is, even if the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is operating at the first initial output, first reduced output, or second reduced output, if the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can be turned off.

For example, the first initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first reference output.

When the first initial output is less than the first reference output, the difference value between the first reference output and the first initial output may be less than or equal to the difference value between the first initial output and the first reduced output. there is.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the first reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of decrease in output from the first reference output to the first initial output.

Additionally, the difference between the first initial output and the first reduced output may be less than or equal to the difference between the first reduced output and the second reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first reduced output to the second reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decreased from the first initial output to the first reduced output.

In summary, in this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced, and the amount of output reduction may be increased or constant.

In this embodiment, the difference between the first and second reference differences may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third reference differences.

[Third example of output control of refrigerator compartment fan during refrigeration cycle operation]

During operation of the refrigeration cycle, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the refrigerating compartment temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42.

Referring to FIG. 5, after the refrigeration cycle starts, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 decreases and then increases.

Accordingly, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on a comparison result between the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 and the set value.

The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a first initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first initial output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the first set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first initial output. It may operate with a first reduced output that is lower than the initial output.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first reduction output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the second set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the first reduction output. It may operate with a second reduction output that is lower than the reduction output. At this time, the second set value is smaller than the first set value.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second reduction output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the third set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped or the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped. It may operate with a third reduction output that is lower than the second reduction output. At this time, the third set value is smaller than the second set value.

If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the third reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

At this time, when the operating time of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, control of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 is terminated. That is, even if the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is operating at the first initial output, first reduced output, or second reduced output, if the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can be turned off.

For example, the first initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first reference output.

When the first initial output is less than the first reference output, the difference value between the first reference output and the first initial output may be less than or equal to the difference value between the first initial output and the first reduced output. there is.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the first reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of decrease in output from the first reference output to the first initial output.

Additionally, the difference between the first initial output and the first reduced output may be less than or equal to the difference between the first reduced output and the second reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the first reduced output to the second reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decreased from the first initial output to the first reduced output.

In summary, in this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced, and the amount of output reduction may be increased or constant.

In this embodiment, the difference between the first and second set values may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third set values.

In the three examples above, in common, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is not stopped after being gradually reduced, but continues continuously until the stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied at the minimum output (for example, the third reduced output). It's also possible that it works.

Meanwhile, when the refrigeration cycle is operated, the temperature of the freezing compartment 111 decreases and the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 increases.

The output of the compressor 21 when the refrigeration cycle operates is greater than the output of the compressor 21 when the first refrigeration cycle operates.

That is, in the first refrigeration cycle, the compressor 21 operates with a first output, and when the refrigeration cycle starts, the compressor 21 may operate with a second output that is greater than the first output.

In addition, the control unit 50 may determine whether the stop condition of the refrigeration cycle is satisfied during operation of the refrigeration cycle (S5).

For example, when the temperature of the freezer compartment 111 falls below the reference temperature of the first refrigerator compartment, the refrigeration cycle may be stopped.

When the refrigeration cycle is stopped, the second refrigeration cycle can be operated (S6).

As an example, the control unit 50 switches the switching valve 26 to the first state so that the refrigerant can flow to the evaporator 25 for the refrigerator compartment.

Additionally, the control unit 50 can stop the freezer compartment fan 28 and operate the refrigerator compartment fan 29.

However, even when the refrigeration cycle is switched to the second refrigeration cycle, the compressor 21 does not stop and continues to operate.

At this time, the output of the compressor 21 in the second refrigeration cycle is smaller than the output of the compressor 21 in the refrigeration cycle.

That is, in the refrigeration cycle, the compressor 21 operates with a second output, and when the second refrigeration cycle starts, the compressor 21 may operate with a third output that is smaller than the second output.

The main purpose of the first refrigeration cycle is to lower the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112, and the main purpose of the second refrigeration cycle is to delay the increase in temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 before pump-down operation. Accordingly, the third output may be equal to or smaller than the first output.

However, during operation of the second refrigeration cycle, the output of the compressor 21 may be maintained at the third output or reduced.

When the second refrigeration cycle is operated, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a second reference output.

As an example, the second reference output may be the same as the first reference output. In this embodiment, the purpose of operating the second refrigeration cycle is to delay the increase in temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112.

Accordingly, in the second refrigeration cycle, the second reference output is made equal to the first reference output so that the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 rapidly decreases.

The second reference output may remain constant until the second refrigeration cycle is stopped.

Alternatively, the second reference output may be decreased or increased one or more times until the second refrigeration cycle is stopped.

For example, when the second refrigerating cycle is operated, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second reference output, and when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 falls below the reduction reference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second reference output. It can operate with a reduced output than the second reference output.

At this time, the reduction reference value may be, for example, the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment.

As another example, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 during operation of the second refrigerating cycle may be determined based on the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112.

If the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is higher than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment during operation of the second refrigerating cycle, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate with a second reference output. At this time, the second reference output may be equal to or higher than the first reference output.

On the other hand, when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is lower than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment during operation of the second refrigerating cycle, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate with a third reference output that is smaller than the second reference output. The third reference output is lower than the first reference output and, for example, may be the minimum output.

In addition, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is higher than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment so that while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is operating at the second reference output, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 becomes lower than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment. When this happens, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can operate at the third reference output.

As another example, when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is higher than the first reduction reference value during operation of the second refrigerating cycle, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be operated at a second reference output (for example, maximum output). there is.

At this time, the first reduction reference value may be a value greater than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112. And, the second reference output may be the same output as the first reference output or may be greater than the first reference output.

On the other hand, when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is higher than the second reduction reference value during operation of the second refrigerating cycle, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates with a third reference output (for example, an intermediate output) reduced from the second reference output. (Im) can operate as follows. At this time, the second reduction reference value is smaller than the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 and larger than the reference temperature of the first refrigerating compartment. The third reference output is a smaller output than the first reference output.

In addition, when the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 is lower than the second reduction reference value during the second refrigerating cycle operation, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 has a fourth reference output (e.g., minimum output) reduced from the third reference output. (Im) can operate as follows. At this time, the fourth reference output is an output greater than 0.

The control unit 50 may determine whether the stop condition of the second refrigeration cycle is satisfied while the second refrigeration cycle is operating (S7).

For example, when the operating time of the second refrigerating cycle (or the operating condition of the refrigerating compartment fan 29) reaches the stop reference time, it may be determined that the stop condition of the second refrigerating cycle is satisfied.

When the second refrigeration cycle is stopped, the pump down operation can be performed (S8). The output of the compressor 21 during the pump-down operation may be the same as the output of the compressor 21 when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

During the pump down operation, the compressor 21 remains turned on, and when the pump down is completed, the compressor 21 is turned off.

Additionally, the switching valve 26 can be switched to a third state so that the refrigerant is not supplied to each of the evaporators 24 and 25. Alternatively, the refrigerator compartment valve and the freezer compartment valve may be turned off.

On the other hand, even when the pump down operation begins, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 does not stop and continues to operate.

In this embodiment, when the pump down operation ends, the compressor 21 is stopped, but the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be stopped after the compressor 21 is stopped.

When the compressor 21 is stopped after the pump down operation is completed, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment 112 may increase. Therefore, in this embodiment, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can operate even after the compressor 21 is stopped in order to delay the temperature rise of the refrigerating compartment 112.

Therefore, for convenience of explanation, the operating section of the second refrigeration cycle is referred to as the first constant temperature section, and the section from the start of the pump down to the time the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped is referred to as the second constant temperature section. You can.

Additionally, the section from the start of the refrigeration cycle to the time the refrigerating compartment fan 29 stops can be referred to as a power saving section.

In the second constant temperature section, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at a second initial output, and the output may be gradually reduced.

For example, the second initial output may be equal to or lower than the second reference output in the first constant temperature section.

[First example of output control of the refrigerator compartment fan in the second constant temperature section]

In the second constant temperature section, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43.

For example, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a second initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second initial output, if the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than the fourth reference temperature value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fourth initial output. 2 It can operate with a fourth reduced output lower than the initial output.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fourth reduction output, if the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than the fifth reference temperature value that is greater than the fourth reference temperature value, the The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a fifth reduction output that is lower than the fourth reduction output.

In addition, when the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 is higher than the sixth reference temperature value that is greater than the fifth reference temperature value while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fifth reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan (29) may be stopped or operated with a sixth reduction power lower than the second reduction power.

If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the sixth reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

In this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be reduced at least twice from the second initial output.

For example, the second initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first initial output.

When the second initial output is less than the first initial output, the difference between the first initial output and the second initial output may be less than or equal to the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output. there is.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the second initial output.

Additionally, the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output may be less than or equal to the difference between the fourth reduced output and the fifth reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the fourth reduced output to the fifth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decreased from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output.

In summary, in this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced, and the amount of output reduction may be increased or constant.

In this embodiment, the difference between the fourth and fifth reference temperatures may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the fifth and sixth reference temperatures.

Although not limited, the average output (or average number of rotations) of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 in the second constant temperature section may be smaller than the average output (or average number of rotations) of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 in the power saving section. You can.

Alternatively, the length of the second constant temperature section may be shorter than the length of the power saving section (operation time of the refrigerator compartment fan in the power saving section).

Alternatively, the maximum value among the reference temperature values in the power saving section (e.g., a third reference temperature value) may be equal to or greater than the minimum value among the reference temperature values in the second constant temperature section (e.g., a fourth reference temperature value). there is.

Alternatively, the minimum value among the reference temperature values (for example, the fourth reference temperature value) in the second constant temperature section is greater than the minimum value among the reference temperature values (for example, the first reference temperature value) in the power saving section.

[Second example of output control of the refrigerator compartment fan in the second constant temperature section]

In the second constant temperature section, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the refrigerating compartment temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42. .

For example, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42.

The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a second initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second initial output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 becomes the fourth If it is smaller than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a fourth reduced output lower than the second initial output.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fourth reduction output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is the fifth If it is smaller than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate with a fifth reduction output lower than the fourth reduction output. At this time, the fifth reference difference value is smaller than the fourth reference difference value.

In addition, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fifth reduction output, the difference between the temperature detected by the first evaporator sensor 43 and the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is the sixth If it is smaller than the reference difference value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be stopped or operated at a sixth reduction output lower than the fifth reduction output.

At this time, the sixth reference difference value is smaller than the fifth reference difference value. If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the sixth reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

In this example, when the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit in the second constant temperature section, control of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is terminated. That is, even if the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is operating at the second minimum output, fourth reduced output, or fifth reduced output, if the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can be turned off.

For example, the second initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first initial output.

When the second initial output is less than the first initial output, the difference between the first initial output and the second initial output may be less than or equal to the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output. there is.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the second initial output.

Additionally, the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output may be less than or equal to the difference between the fourth reduced output and the fifth reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the fourth reduced output to the fifth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decreased from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output.

In this embodiment, the difference between the fourth and fifth reference differences may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the fifth and sixth reference differences.

In this example, although not limiting, the average output (or average rotation speed) of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 in the second constant temperature section is greater than the average output (or average rotation speed) of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 in the power saving section. number) can be small.

Alternatively, the length of the second constant temperature section may be shorter than the length of the power saving section (operation time of the refrigerator compartment fan in the power saving section).

Alternatively, the maximum value among the reference differences in the power saving section (for example, the first reference difference value) is greater than the maximum value among the reference differences in the second constant temperature section (for example, the fourth reference difference value).

Alternatively, at least one value among the reference difference values in the power saving section may be equal to at least one value among the reference difference values in the second constant temperature section.

[Third example of output control of the refrigerator compartment fan in the second constant temperature section]

In the second constant temperature section, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced based on the refrigerating compartment temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42.

The refrigerating compartment fan 29 may operate at a second initial output when the refrigeration cycle is operating.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second initial output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the fourth set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the second initial output. It may operate with a fourth reduced output lower than the initial output.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fourth reduction output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the fifth set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fourth reduction output. It may operate with a fifth reduction output lower than the reduction output. At this time, the fifth set value is smaller than the fourth set value.

And, while the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the fifth reduction output, if the temperature detected by the refrigerating compartment temperature sensor 42 is less than the sixth set value, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped or the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is stopped. It may operate with a sixth reduction output that is lower than the fifth reduction output. At this time, the sixth set value is smaller than the fifth set value.

If the refrigerating compartment fan 29 operates at the sixth reduction output, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be turned off after a set time has elapsed.

At this time, when the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit in the second constant temperature section, control of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is terminated. That is, even if the refrigerating compartment fan 29 is operating at the second minimum output, fourth reduced output, or fifth reduced output, if the operating time of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 reaches the time limit, the refrigerating compartment fan 29 can be turned off.

Although not limited, the second initial output may be equal to or smaller than the first initial output.

When the second initial output is less than the first initial output, the difference between the first initial output and the second initial output may be less than or equal to the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output. there is.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of output decrease from the first initial output to the second initial output.

Additionally, the difference between the second initial output and the fourth reduced output may be less than or equal to the difference between the fourth reduced output and the fifth reduced output.

That is, the amount of output decrease from the second initial output to the fourth reduced output is greater than or equal to the amount of decrease in output from the fourth reduced output to the fifth reduced output.

In summary, in this embodiment, the output of the refrigerating compartment fan 29 may be gradually reduced, and the amount of output reduction may be increased or constant.

In this embodiment, the difference between the fourth and fifth set values may be set to be equal to or greater than the difference between the fifth and sixth set values.

In this example, although not limiting, the average output (or average rotation speed) of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 in the second constant temperature section is greater than the average output (or average rotation speed) of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 in the power saving section. number) can be small.

Alternatively, the length of the second constant temperature section may be shorter than the length of the power saving section (operation time of the refrigerator compartment fan in the power saving section).

Alternatively, the minimum value among the set values in the power saving section (for example, a third set value) is smaller than the minimum value among the set values in the second constant temperature section (for example, a fourth reference temperature value).

Alternatively, at least one value among the reference difference values in the power saving section may be equal to at least one value among the reference difference values in the second constant temperature section.

Meanwhile, when the pump down operation is completed, the compressor 21 is stopped, and the second constant temperature section is ended and the refrigerator compartment fan 29 is stopped, unless the power to the refrigerator 1 is turned off. (S7), when the first refrigeration cycle start condition is satisfied, the control unit 50 operates the first refrigeration cycle again.

At this time, the pump down operation may be performed for a predetermined time.

In the above embodiment, it was explained that the freezer compartment fan 28 is stopped immediately after the refrigeration cycle is stopped. However, in contrast, there is a delay in the temperature rise of the refrigeration cycle after the refrigeration cycle is stopped. For this purpose, the freezer fan 28 may operate continuously. In this case, the output of the freezer fan 28 may be gradually reduced. That is, the freezer compartment fan 28 can be controlled using the same method as the output control method of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 mentioned in the power saving section. Also, the refrigerator compartment fan 28 may be operated after the freezer compartment fan 28 is stopped.

Meanwhile, after the second refrigeration cycle is stopped and the pump down is performed, the compressor is not stopped and the first refrigeration cycle can be performed immediately. In this case, the compressor 21 operates continuously without stopping unless the power is turned off. Even in this case, the output control of the refrigerator compartment fan 29 described above can be applied as is.

However, in the first operation cycle, when the first refrigeration cycle operates, the compressor 21 operates with the first refrigeration power (or output), and after the pump down operation of the first operation cycle is completed, the compressor 21 operates at the first refrigeration cycle of the second operation cycle. 1 When the refrigeration cycle is operating, the compressor 21 may operate with a second cooling power that is the same as the first cooling power or a modified cooling power.

At this time, the second cooling power of the compressor may be determined based on the temperature change of the refrigerating compartment 112 in the first operation cycle.

Additionally, in the first operation cycle, when the refrigeration cycle operates, the compressor 21 operates with the third cooling power, and when the refrigeration cycle of the second operation cycle operates, the compressor 21 operates with the third cooling power. It can operate with a fourth cooling power that is the same or a modified cooling power. At this time, the fourth cooling power of the compressor may be determined based on the temperature change of the freezer compartment 111 in the second operation cycle.

21: compressor 22: condenser
24: Evaporator for freezer 25: Evaporator for refrigerator
28: Freezer fan 29: Refrigerator fan
50: control unit

Claims (37)

activating a first cooling cycle for the first storage compartment to operate the compressor and operating a first cooling fan for the first storage compartment;
When the stop condition of the first cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a second cooling cycle for cooling the second storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating a second cooling fan for cooling the second storage compartment;
When the stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied, switching to a third cooling cycle for cooling the first storage compartment, operating the compressor and operating the first cooling fan;
performing a pump-down operation when the stop condition of the third cooling cycle is satisfied; and
In the refrigerator control method including turning off the compressor when the pump down operation is completed,
When switching from the first cooling cycle to the second cooling cycle, the first cooling fan continues to operate,
Based on a change in temperature of one or more of the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the first evaporator for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment, the output of the first cooling fan is gradually reduced during operation of the second cooling cycle. A control method for a refrigerator, characterized in that it is controlled. delete According to claim 1,
The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when the second cooling cycle operates,
When the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the first reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates with a first reduced output lower than the first initial output. According to claim 3,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first reduction output, if the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the second reference temperature value that is greater than the first reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates at the first reduction output. A control method for a refrigerator that operates with a second reduced output lower than the output. According to claim 4,
If the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than a third reference temperature value that is greater than the second reference temperature value while the first cooling fan operates at the second reduction output,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
After operating at a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output, it is stopped when a set time has elapsed,
A method of controlling a refrigerator that continuously operates with the third reduction output until a stop condition of the second cooling cycle is satisfied. According to claim 5,
During the pump down operation, the first cooling fan operates at a second initial output, and the output of the first cooling fan is reduced one or more times until it is stopped. According to claim 6,
If the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the fourth reference temperature value while the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, the first cooling fan operates at a fourth reduction output lower than the second initial output. Refrigerator control method. According to claim 7,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output, if the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the fifth reference temperature value that is greater than the fourth reference temperature value, the first cooling fan operates at the fourth reduction output. Control method of a refrigerator operating at a fifth reduced output lower than the output. According to claim 8,
If the temperature of the first evaporator is higher than the sixth reference temperature value that is greater than the fifth reference temperature value while the first cooling fan operates at the fifth reduction output,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
A method of controlling a refrigerator that operates at a sixth reduction output lower than the fifth reduction output and then stops when a set time has elapsed. According to clause 9,
The third reference temperature value may be equal to or greater than the fourth reference temperature value, or
The fourth reference temperature value is greater than the first reference temperature value. According to claim 5,
A method of controlling a refrigerator, wherein the difference between the first reference temperature and the second reference temperature is equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third reference temperatures. According to claim 1,
The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when the second cooling cycle operates,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first initial output, if the difference value between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the first reference difference value, the first cooling fan A control method of a refrigerator operating at a first reduced output lower than the first initial output. According to claim 12,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the first reduction output, if the difference value between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the second reference difference value, the first cooling fan Operates with a second reduction output lower than the first reduction output,
A method of controlling a refrigerator in which the second reference difference value is smaller than the first reference difference value. According to claim 13,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the second reduction output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the third reference difference,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
It operates at a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output and stops when a set time has elapsed,
The third reference difference value is smaller than the second reference difference value. According to claim 14,
During the pump down operation, the first cooling fan operates at a second initial output, and the output of the first cooling fan is reduced one or more times until it is stopped. According to claim 15,
While the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, if the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the fourth reference difference, the first cooling fan 2 Control method of a refrigerator operating at a fourth reduced output lower than the initial output. According to claim 16,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output,
If the difference value between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the fifth reference difference value that is smaller than the fourth reference difference value, the first cooling fan generates the fifth reduction output lower than the fourth reduction output. Control method for a refrigerator operated by output. According to claim 17,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fifth reduction output,
If the difference between the temperature of the first evaporator and the temperature of the first storage compartment is smaller than the sixth reference difference value that is smaller than the fifth reference difference value,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
A method of controlling a refrigerator that operates at a sixth reduction output lower than the fifth reduction output and then stops when a set time has elapsed. According to claim 18,
The first reference difference value is greater than the fourth reference difference value, or
A method of controlling a refrigerator wherein at least one of the first to second reference difference values is the same as at least one of the fourth to sixth reference difference values. According to claim 14,
A method of controlling a refrigerator, wherein the difference between the first and second reference differences is equal to or greater than the difference between the second and third reference differences. According to claim 1,
The first cooling fan operates at a first initial output when the second cooling cycle operates,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the first set value, the first cooling fan operates with a first reduced output lower than the first initial output. According to claim 21,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan with the first reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the second set value, the first cooling fan operates with a second reduction output lower than the first reduction output. It works,
A method of controlling a refrigerator wherein the second set value is smaller than the first set value. According to claim 22,
When the first cooling fan operates at the second reduction output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the third set value,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
It operates at a third reduction output lower than the second reduction output and stops when a set time has elapsed,
A method of controlling a refrigerator in which the third set value is smaller than the second set value. According to claim 23,
During the pump down operation, the first cooling fan operates at a second initial output, and the output of the first cooling fan is reduced one or more times until it is stopped. According to claim 24,
While the first cooling fan is operating at the second initial output, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the fourth set value, the first cooling fan operates at a fourth reduced output lower than the second initial output. Refrigerator control method. According to claim 25,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fourth reduction output,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the fifth set value that is smaller than the fourth set value, the first cooling fan operates at a fifth reduced output that is lower than the fourth reduced output. According to claim 26,
In the process of operating the first cooling fan at the fifth reduction output,
If the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the sixth set value, which is less than the fifth set value,
The first cooling fan is stopped, or
A method of controlling a refrigerator that operates at a sixth reduction output lower than the fifth reduction output and then stops when a set time has elapsed. According to claim 23,
A method of controlling a refrigerator, wherein the difference between the first set value and the second set value is equal to or greater than the difference between the second set value and the third set value. According to claim 1,
The average output of the first cooling fan after starting the pump-down operation is greater than the average output of the first cooling fan in the second cooling cycle, or
The operating time of the first cooling fan after starting the pump-down operation is greater than the operating time of the first cooling fan in the second cooling cycle. The method of claim 13 or 22,
When the operation time of the first cooling fan reaches a time limit while the first cooling fan is operating at the first initial output, first reduced output, or second reduced output, the first cooling fan is turned off. Control method. The method of claim 3, 12 or 21,
In the first cooling cycle, the first cooling fan operates at a first reference output,
The first initial output is equal to or smaller than the first reference output. According to claim 1,
In the third cooling cycle, the first cooling fan operates at a second reference output,
The second reference output is maintained constant or decreased one or more times during the third cooling cycle operation. According to claim 32,
When operating the third cooling cycle, the first cooling fan operates at the second reference output,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment falls below a reduction reference value, the first cooling fan operates with a reduced output than the second reference output. According to claim 32,
When operating the third cooling cycle, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the set temperature of the first storage compartment, the first cooling fan operates at the second reference output,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the set temperature of the first storage compartment, the first cooling fan operates with a third reference output less than the second reference output. According to claim 32,
When operating the third cooling cycle, if the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the first reduction reference value, the first cooling fan operates at a second reference output,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment is higher than the second reduction reference value, the first cooling fan operates with a third reference output lower than the second reference output,
When the temperature of the first storage compartment is lower than the second reduction reference value, the first cooling fan operates at a fourth reference output lower than the third reference output,
The first reduction reference value is greater than the set temperature of the first storage compartment,
The second reduction reference value is smaller than the set temperature of the first storage compartment. delete A compressor that compresses refrigerant;
a first evaporator that receives refrigerant from the compressor and generates cold air to cool the first storage compartment;
a first cooling fan for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment;
a second evaporator that receives refrigerant from the compressor and generates cold air for a second storage compartment;
a second cooling fan for supplying cold air to the second storage compartment;
a valve that selectively opens one of a first refrigerant passage connecting the refrigerant to flow between the compressor and the first evaporator and a second refrigerant passage connecting the refrigerant to flow between the compressor and the second evaporator; and
It includes a control unit that controls the first cooling fan, the second cooling fan, and the valve,
The control unit operates the compressor and the first cooling fan to cool the first storage compartment,
When cooling of the first storage compartment is completed, operating the compressor and the second cooling fan to cool the second storage compartment,
When cooling of the second storage compartment is completed, operating the compressor and the first cooling fan to cool the first storage compartment again,
When cooling of the first storage compartment is completed again, a pump-down operation is performed,
In a refrigerator that stops operation of the compressor when the pump down operation is completed,
The control unit,
Operating the first cooling fan during the cooling process of the second storage compartment,
A refrigerator that controls the output of the first cooling fan to be gradually reduced based on a change in temperature of one or more of the temperature of the first storage compartment and the temperature of the first evaporator for supplying cold air to the first storage compartment.

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