KR102211202B1 - A refrigerator and a control method the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a control method thereof.
A method for controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment includes the steps of: starting a compressor to drive a refrigeration cycle including a first evaporator and a second evaporator; Simultaneously supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator by controlling a flow control unit; Sensing the temperature of the first evaporator or the second evaporator by a temperature sensor, and recognizing whether the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; Reducing the supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is pulled by adjusting the flow control unit; Storing information on the operating time of the flow control unit; Recognizing whether a fault or error has occurred in the temperature sensor; And determining an operating time of the flow control unit according to whether a failure or error occurs in the temperature sensor.

Description

Refrigerator and its control method {A refrigerator and a control method the same}

The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a control method thereof.

In general, a refrigerator is provided with a plurality of storage compartments in which storage materials are accommodated to freeze or refrigerate food, and one surface of the storage compartment is opened to receive and take out the food. The plurality of storage chambers include a freezing chamber for frozen storage of food and a refrigerating chamber for refrigerating storage of food.

In the refrigerator, a refrigeration system in which refrigerant circulates is driven. Devices constituting the refrigeration system include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator. The evaporator may include a first evaporator provided on one side of the refrigerating compartment and a second evaporator provided on one side of the freezing compartment.

The cold air stored in the refrigerating chamber is cooled while passing through the first evaporator, and the cooled cold air may be supplied back to the refrigerating chamber. In addition, the cold air stored in the freezing chamber is cooled while passing through the second evaporator, and the cooled cold air may be supplied back to the freezing chamber.

As described above, in a conventional refrigerator, independent cooling is performed in a plurality of storage rooms through separate evaporators.

In this regard, the present applicant has received a patent registration (prior patent registration number 10-1275184, registration date June 10, 2013).

In the refrigeration system according to the preceding patent, a compressor 140, a condenser 150, a refrigerant supply means 170, an expansion device 113 and 123, a first evaporator 110 and a second evaporator 120 are disclosed. The first evaporator 110 and the second evaporator 120 are understood as heat exchangers provided for cooling separate storage chambers, respectively.

The refrigerant supply means 170 may be configured as a three-way valve, and the refrigerant flowing into the refrigerant supply means 170 may be guided to the first evaporator 110 or the second evaporator 120.

That is, the above prior patent is characterized in that the refrigerant is selectively supplied to the first evaporator 110 or the second evaporator 120 to perform cooling of one of the plurality of storage chambers and to stop cooling of the other storage chambers. do.

As described above, in the related art, a plurality of storage chambers are not simultaneously cooled, but one storage chamber and another storage chamber are selectively or alternately cooled.

In this case, the storage compartment in which cooling is performed may maintain a temperature within an appropriate range, but the temperature of the storage compartment not cooled rises, resulting in a problem that exceeds the normal range.

In addition, when it is detected that the temperature of the other storage compartment is out of the normal range while the cooling of one storage compartment is required, there is a problem that cooling of the other storage compartment cannot be performed immediately.

As a result, in a structure in which the storage compartment must be independently cooled, cold air cannot be supplied to the right place in a timely manner, resulting in a problem of lowering the operating efficiency of the refrigerator.

On the other hand, in order to simultaneously cool a plurality of storage chambers in the related art, when both outlet sides of the refrigerant supply means 170 are opened, the refrigerant flows to one of the plurality of evaporators.

In particular, when a three-way valve is installed as a refrigerant supply means, the physical equilibrium of the three-way valve is not maintained at the installation location, so that a large amount of refrigerant flows into one evaporator and a relatively small amount of refrigerant flows into another evaporator.

In order to solve this problem, an object of the present embodiment is to provide a refrigerator and a control method of the refrigerator that efficiently cools a plurality of storage rooms.

A method for controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment includes the steps of: starting a compressor to drive a refrigeration cycle including a first evaporator and a second evaporator; Simultaneously supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator by controlling a flow control unit; Sensing the temperature of the first evaporator or the second evaporator by a temperature sensor, and recognizing whether the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator; Reducing the supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is pulled by adjusting the flow control unit; Storing information on the operating time of the flow control unit; Recognizing whether a fault or error has occurred in the temperature sensor; And determining an operating time of the flow control unit according to whether a failure or error occurs in the temperature sensor.

In addition, when it is recognized that a failure or error has occurred in the temperature sensor, the operation time of the flow control unit is determined based on the stored operation time of the flow control unit.

In addition, whether a failure or an error occurs in the temperature sensor is determined according to whether a temperature value sensed by the temperature sensor is out of an allowable range.

In addition, when it is recognized that no failure or error has occurred in the temperature sensor, the flow control unit is controlled so that the flow rates of the refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator and the second evaporator can be varied according to a set time. do.

In addition, based on the information on the inlet/outlet temperature of the first evaporator or the inlet/outlet temperature difference of the second evaporator, whether or not to change the set time is determined, and the flow control unit, according to the changed set time, the first evaporator and It is characterized in that it is controlled so that the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator can be varied.

In addition, the information on the operation time of the flow control unit includes: operation time information of the flow control unit operated according to the set time; And time information of an independent operation of the first evaporator or the second evaporator or time information when the operation of the compressor is turned off.

In addition, when it is recognized that no failure or error has occurred in the temperature sensor, the flow control unit is in a first control state in which the refrigerant supply to the first evaporator is increased according to the inlet and outlet temperature of the first evaporator or the second evaporator. Or it is characterized in that the control is so as to switch to the second control state to increase the refrigerant supply to the second evaporator.

In addition, the information on the operation time of the flow control unit may include time information during which the first control state of the flow control unit is maintained; And time information during which the second control state of the flow control unit is maintained.

In addition, a refrigerator according to another aspect includes: a compressor for compressing a refrigerant in order to drive a refrigeration cycle for supplying cold air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber; A condenser for condensing the refrigerant compressed by the compressor; A refrigerant pipe for guiding the flow of the refrigerant condensed in the condenser; A plurality of refrigerant passages branched from the refrigerant pipe and in which an expansion device is installed; First and second evaporators for evaporating the refrigerant passing through the plurality of refrigerant passages; A temperature sensor sensing the temperature of the first evaporator or the second evaporator; A flow control unit for adjusting an amount of refrigerant flowing through the plurality of refrigerant passages; A memory unit for storing or updating time information on which the flow control unit is operated; And a control unit for controlling the flow control unit to simultaneously supply the refrigerant to the first and second evaporators, and the control unit includes a time stored in the memory unit when it is recognized that an error or failure has occurred in the temperature sensor. Based on the information, it is characterized in that the operation time of the flow control unit is determined.

In addition, the memory unit may further store mapping information for maintaining the first adjustment state or the second adjustment state of the flow control unit according to a set time.

In addition, the first control state of the flow control unit is a state controlled to increase the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator, and the second control state of the flow control unit increases the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator. It is characterized in that it is in a controlled state.

In addition, the memory unit may further store information that maps whether or not the set time is changed according to whether the first evaporator or the second evaporator is focused on the refrigerant.

Further, in the plurality of refrigerant passages, a first expansion device is installed, and a first refrigerant passage connected to the first evaporator; A second refrigerant passage having a second expansion device installed and connected to the second evaporator; And a third refrigerant passage provided with a third expansion device and connected to the first evaporator.

In addition, a fourth expansion device is installed in the plurality of refrigerant passages, and a fourth refrigerant passage connected to the second evaporator is further included.

Further, in the plurality of refrigerant passages, a first expansion device is installed, and a first refrigerant passage connected to the first evaporator; And a first flow rate controller having a second expansion device installed, including a second refrigerant passage connected to the second evaporator, and being provided to the first refrigerant passage to adjust an amount of refrigerant; And a second flow rate control unit provided in the second refrigerant flow path and adjusting the amount of refrigerant.

According to the proposed embodiment, since a plurality of evaporators can be operated simultaneously, there is an advantage that a plurality of storage chambers can be effectively cooled.

Particularly, among the plurality of evaporators, a plurality of refrigerant passages are provided at an inlet side of at least one evaporator, and an expansion device is provided in each refrigerant passage to control the refrigerant flow.

In addition, during the operation of the refrigerator, the amount of refrigerant supplied to the plurality of evaporators can be adjusted based on a pre-stored time value and a temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the plurality of evaporators, so that the refrigerant can be effectively distributed to the plurality of evaporators. There is this.

As a result, according to the time period set during the simultaneous cooling operation, the first control process of increasing the amount of refrigerant supplied to one of the plurality of evaporators and the second control process of increasing the amount of refrigerant supplied to the other evaporators are basically performed. (Time control of flow control unit).

In addition, since the control time value of the first and second control processes can be changed by checking the temperature information of the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators, precise control to prevent the phenomenon of refrigerant from being concentrated on a specific evaporator among a plurality of evaporators is possible. There is an effect that it is possible (temperature control of the flow controller).

In addition, information on the control time of the simultaneous cooling operation of the first and second evaporators, performed through the flow control unit time control or the flow control unit temperature control, is stored or updated, and this information can be used as driving information of the refrigerator. There will be.

In detail, even if an error occurs or a failure occurs in the inlet temperature sensor or the outlet temperature sensor of the evaporator, the simultaneous cooling operation can be continuously performed based on the stored or updated information, so that a stable and continuous simultaneous cooling operation can be performed. There is an effect.

In addition, since the plurality of refrigerant passages are provided with a flow rate controller capable of adjusting the opening degree, there is an effect that accurate refrigerant flow rate can be controlled.

In addition, when a plurality of compressors are provided in the refrigerator, that is, when a high-pressure side compressor and a low-pressure side compressor are provided, the inlet side refrigerant flow resistance of the high-side evaporator may be formed to be smaller than the inlet side refrigerant flow resistance of the low-pressure side evaporator. , There is an advantage in that it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled to the low-pressure side evaporator due to the pressure difference between the refrigerant.

1 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
3 and 4 are flow charts showing a control method of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a flow chart showing a control method of a refrigerator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the presented embodiments, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily propose other embodiments within the scope of the same idea.

1 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of devices for driving a refrigeration cycle.

In detail, the refrigerator 10 includes a plurality of compressors 111 and 115 for compressing a refrigerant, a condenser 120 for condensing the refrigerant compressed by the plurality of compressors 111 and 115, and the condensed at the condenser 120. A plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145) for decompressing the refrigerant and a plurality of evaporators (150, 160) for evaporating the refrigerant depressurized by the plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145) are included.

In addition, the refrigerator 10 includes a refrigerant pipe 100 connecting the plurality of compressors 111 and 115, condensers 120, expansion devices 141, 143 and 145, and evaporators 150 and 160 to guide the flow of the refrigerant.

The plurality of compressors 111 and 115 include a second compressor 115 disposed on a low pressure side and a first compressor 111 further compressing the refrigerant compressed by the second compressor 115.

The first compressor 111 and the second compressor 115 are connected in series. That is, the refrigerant pipe at the outlet side of the second compressor 115 is connected to the inlet side of the first compressor 111.

In the plurality of evaporators 150 and 160, a first evaporator 150 for generating cold air to be supplied to one of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, and a second evaporator 160 for generating cold air to be supplied to the other storage chamber Is included.

For example, the first evaporator 150 generates cold air to be supplied to the refrigerating chamber, and may be disposed on one side of the refrigerating chamber. In addition, the second evaporator 160 generates cold air to be supplied to the freezing chamber, and may be disposed on one side of the freezing chamber.

The temperature of the cold air supplied to the freezing chamber may be lower than the temperature of the cold air supplied to the refrigerating chamber, and accordingly, the refrigerant evaporation pressure of the second evaporator 160 may be lower than the refrigerant evaporation pressure of the first evaporator 150. have.

The outlet side refrigerant pipe 100 of the second evaporator 160 extends toward the inlet side of the second compressor 115. Accordingly, the refrigerant that has passed through the second evaporator 160 may be sucked into the second compressor 115.

The outlet side refrigerant pipe 100 of the first evaporator 150 is connected to the outlet side refrigerant pipe of the second compressor 115. Accordingly, the refrigerant that has passed through the first evaporator 150 may be combined with the refrigerant compressed in the second compressor 115 and sucked into the first compressor 111.

The plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145) include a first expansion device (141) and a third expansion device (145) for expanding the refrigerant to be introduced into the first evaporator (150), and the second evaporator (160). A second expansion device 143 for expanding the refrigerant to be introduced is included. A capillary tube may be included in the first to third expansion devices 141, 143, and 145.

When the second evaporator 160 is used as a freezing chamber side evaporator and the first evaporator 150 is used as a refrigerating chamber side evaporator, the refrigerant evaporation pressure of the second evaporator 160 is equal to that of the first evaporator 150. In order to be formed lower than the evaporation pressure of the refrigerant, the capillary tube diameter of the second expansion device 143 may be smaller than the capillary tube diameter of the first expansion device 141 and the third expansion device 145.

At the inlet side of the first evaporator 150, a plurality of refrigerant passages 101 and 105 for guiding the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator 150 are provided.

The plurality of refrigerant passages 101 and 105 include a first refrigerant passage 101 in which the first expansion device 141 is installed and a third refrigerant passage 105 in which the third expansion device 145 is installed. . The first and third refrigerant passages 101 and 105 may be referred to as "first evaporation passages" in that they guide the inflow of the refrigerant into the first evaporator 150. The refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 101 and the third refrigerant passage 105 may be laminated and then introduced into the first evaporator 150.

In addition, at the inlet side of the second evaporator 160, one refrigerant passage 103 is provided to guide the inflow of the refrigerant into the second evaporator 160. The one refrigerant flow path 103 includes a second refrigerant flow path 103 in which the second expansion device 143 is installed. The second refrigerant passage 103 may be referred to as a "second evaporation passage" in that it guides the inflow of the refrigerant into the second evaporator 160.

The first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105 may be understood as "branch passages" branched from the refrigerant pipe 100.

The refrigerator 10 further includes a flow control unit 130 for branching and flowing the refrigerant into the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105. The flow control unit 130 operates so that at least one of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 is operated, that is, the refrigerant is applied to any one of the first and second evaporators 150, or the first and second evaporators. It can be understood as a device that adjusts the flow of the refrigerant so that it flows into 150 and 160 simultaneously.

The flow control unit 130 includes a four-way valve having one inlet through which the refrigerant is introduced and three outlets through which the refrigerant is discharged.

The first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105 are connected to the three outlet portions of the flow control unit 130, respectively. Accordingly, the refrigerant passing through the flow control unit 130 may be branched into the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105 and discharged. The outlets connected to the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105 are sequentially referred to as "first outlet", "second outlet" and "third outlet".

At least one of the first to third outlets may be opened. For example, when all of the first to third outlets are opened, the refrigerant flows through the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105. On the other hand, when the first and second outlets are opened and the third outlet is closed, the refrigerant flows through the first and second refrigerant passages 101 and 103.

Of course, the first outlet portion is open, the second and third outlet portions are closed, so that the refrigerant may flow only through the first refrigerant passage 101, the second outlet portion is open, and the first and third outlet portions are closed. The refrigerant may flow only through the second refrigerant flow path 103.

In this way, the flow path of the refrigerant may vary according to the control of the flow control unit 130. Further, the control of the flow control unit 130 may be performed based on whether the refrigerant in the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is insufficient or insufficient.

For example, when the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 are operated simultaneously, when the first evaporator 150 is relatively short of refrigerant, the refrigerant may flow through the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105. So that the flow control unit 130 is controlled.

On the other hand, when the refrigerant is relatively insufficient in the second evaporator 160, the third refrigerant passage 105 is closed, and the flow is controlled so that the refrigerant can flow through the first and second refrigerant passages 101 and 103. The unit 130 is controlled.

That is, a plurality of flow paths 101 and 105 of the refrigerant to be introduced into the first evaporator 150 are provided, and the first evaporator 150 is selectively controlled by selectively controlling the flow of the refrigerant through the plurality of flow paths 101 and 105. Alternatively, the amount of refrigerant to be introduced into the second evaporator 160 may be adjusted.

On the other hand, compared to the inlet side of the second evaporator 160, since more refrigerant passages are formed on the inlet side of the first evaporator 150, when all of the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105 are open In comparison to the second evaporator 160, the refrigerant can flow relatively more to the first evaporator 150.

That is, the heat exchange capability of the first evaporator 150 is greater than the heat exchange capability of the second evaporator 160. Accordingly, when the first evaporator 150 is a refrigerating chamber side evaporator and the second evaporator 160 is a freezing chamber side evaporator, the cooling load or capacity of the refrigerating chamber may be larger than the cooling load or capacity of the freezing chamber.

The refrigerator 10 includes blowing fans 125, 155, and 165 provided on one side of the heat exchanger to blow air. The blowing fans 125, 155, and 165 include a condensing fan 125 provided at one side of the condenser 120, a first evaporating fan 155 provided at one side of the first evaporator 150, and the second evaporator 160. A second evaporation fan 165 provided on one side of) is included.

The heat exchange capacity of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may vary according to the rotational speed of the first and second evaporating fans 155 and 165. For example, when it is necessary to generate a lot of cold air according to the operation of the first evaporator 150, the rotational speed of the first evaporation fan 155 increases, and when there is sufficient cold air, the first evaporation fan 155 The rotation speed of the can be reduced.

2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, in the refrigerator 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of temperature sensors capable of sensing the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature of the first evaporator 150 and the second evaporator 160 ( 210,220,230,240) are included.

In the plurality of temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240, a first inlet temperature sensor 210 for sensing an inlet temperature of the first evaporator 150 and a first outlet for sensing an outlet temperature of the first evaporator 150 A temperature sensor 220 is included.

And, the plurality of temperature sensors (210, 220, 230, 240), a second inlet temperature sensor 230 for sensing the inlet temperature of the second evaporator 160 and a second inlet temperature sensor for sensing the outlet temperature of the second evaporator 160 2 The outlet temperature sensor 240 is further included.

The refrigerator 10 further includes a storage room temperature sensor 250 for sensing a temperature inside the refrigerator storage compartment and an external temperature sensor 260 for sensing an external temperature of the refrigerator. The storage compartment temperature sensor includes a refrigerator compartment temperature sensor disposed in the refrigerating compartment to sense an internal temperature of the refrigerating compartment, and a freezing compartment temperature sensor disposed in the freezing compartment to detect the temperature of the freezing compartment.

The refrigerator 10 further includes a controller 200 that controls the operation of the flow controller 130 based on temperature values sensed by the plurality of temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, and 260.

The control unit 200 may control the operation of the compressor 110, the condensing fan 125, and the first and second evaporation fans 155 and 165 for simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber. The compressor 110 includes a first compressor 111 and a second compressor 115.

The refrigerator 10 further includes a timer 270 that accumulates an elapsed operating time value of the flow control unit 130 during simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber. For example, the timer 270 is a time that has elapsed while the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105 are all open, or the first and second refrigerant passages 101 and 103 are open and the third refrigerant passage 105 ) Can accumulate the time elapsed in the closed state.

In the refrigerator 10, a time value for simultaneous operation of the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment is determined according to the temperature condition outside the refrigerator, that is, the external temperature of the refrigerator, and the temperature condition of the refrigerator storage compartment, that is, information on the internal temperature of the refrigerator compartment or the freezing compartment. A memory unit 280 that is mapped and stored in advance is further included.

In detail, an external temperature value may be detected through the external temperature sensor 230, and a temperature value detected by the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor 210 or the freezing compartment temperature sensor 220, or whether the compressor 110 is started. The state condition or state information of the storage room may be determined through the information. The compressor 110 includes a first compressor 111 and a second compressor 115.

For example, the state condition of the storage compartment may include a "cooling operation" state, a "freezing compartment load response" state, a "refrigeration compartment load response" state, and a "simultaneous cooling of the storage compartment (refrigerating compartment and freezing compartment)".

The "cold start state" is understood as a state in which the compressor 110 starts to be driven again after being turned off. That is, when the compressor 110 is turned off and the high and low pressures of the refrigerant are not formed in the set range, the state until the pressure of the refrigerant is formed in the set range after startup, and until the pressure of the refrigerant is formed in the set range in FIG. It can be a state. For example, the cold start state may continue for about 2 to 3 minutes after the start of operation of the compressor 110.

In the "freezer load response" state, when the temperature of the freezing compartment suddenly rises, for example, the freezing compartment door is opened for a long period of time to cause a sudden temperature rise above the set temperature. The "refrigerating compartment load response" state indicates that the temperature of the refrigerator compartment is In the case of sudden rise, it is understood as a state in which, for example, the refrigerating compartment door is opened for a long time and the temperature rises suddenly above the set temperature.

The "simultaneous cooling of the storage compartment (refrigerating compartment and freezing compartment)" may be understood as a state in which the internal temperatures of the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment need to be simultaneously cooled for reasons such as not reaching a target temperature.

In general, when the refrigerator is operated, when the compressor is cooled and the refrigeration cycle is stabilized, the process of simultaneously cooling the storage chamber selectively according to the temperature of the storage chamber will be repeated. In addition, when a special situation, that is, a situation in which the user has opened the refrigerator compartment door for a long time or the freezing compartment door is opened for a long time, may be performed, the refrigerating compartment load response or the freezing compartment load response operation may be performed.

In this embodiment, the memory unit 280 may store mapped information as shown in [Table 1] below.

External temperature condition External temperature ≤16℃ 16℃<external temperature≤28℃ External temperature> 28℃ Storage room condition



Cold start Case 1 Case 2 100 seconds 120 seconds
110 seconds 150 seconds
90 seconds 90 seconds Freezer load response 90 seconds 120 seconds 120 seconds 150 seconds 150 seconds 180 seconds Refrigerator load response 120 seconds 90 seconds 150 seconds 120 seconds 180 seconds 150 seconds Simultaneous cooling of storage room 60 seconds 100 seconds 90 seconds 150 seconds 120 seconds 180 seconds

Referring to [Table 1] above, "Case 1" is the first control state of the flow control unit 130, and the flow control unit 130 so that the first to third refrigerant flow paths 101, 103, and 105 are all open. Means a controlled state. That is, the "Case 1" is a state that can be controlled when the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator 160 and is understood to be the "first control state" of the flow controller 130. On the other hand, "Case 2" is the second control state of the flow control unit 130, the flow control unit 130 so that the first and second refrigerant passages 101 and 103 are open and the third refrigerant passage 105 is closed. Means a controlled state. That is, the "case 2" is a state that can be controlled when the refrigerant is shifted to the first evaporator 150 and is understood to be a "second control state" of the flow control unit 130.

For example, when the condition of the storage compartment is “cooling” and the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or less, control of the flow controller 130 according to case 1 is performed for 90 seconds, and then flow control according to case 2 The control unit of the unit 130 is performed for 90 seconds.

On the other hand, in the cold start state, when the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or more and 28°C or less, the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is controlled for 100 seconds, and then the flow control unit 130 according to case 2 is performed. ) To perform 120 seconds.

As another example, when the state condition of the storage compartment is a "freezer load response" state and the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or less, control of the flow controller 130 according to case 1 is performed for 90 seconds, and then according to case 2 The control unit of the flow control unit 130 is performed for 120 seconds.

On the other hand, in the freezer load response state, when the refrigerator external temperature is 16°C or more and 28°C or less, the flow control unit 130 according to Case 1 is controlled for 120 seconds, and then the flow control unit according to Case 2 ( 130) is performed for 150 seconds.

As another example, when the condition of the storage compartment is "corresponds to the load of the refrigerator compartment" and the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or less, the control of the flow controller 130 according to case 1 is performed for 120 seconds, and then the case 2 Accordingly, the control unit of the flow control unit 130 is performed for 90 seconds.

On the other hand, in the refrigerating compartment load response state, when the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or more and 28°C or less, the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is controlled for 150 seconds, and then the flow control unit according to case 2 ( 130) is performed for 120 seconds.

As another example, when the condition of the storage compartment is “simultaneous cooling of the storage compartment” and the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or less, control of the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is performed for 60 seconds, and then the case 2 Accordingly, the control unit of the flow control unit 130 is performed for 100 seconds.

On the other hand, in the state of simultaneous cooling of the storage compartment, when the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or more and 28°C or less, the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is controlled for 90 seconds, and then the flow control unit according to case 2 ( 130) is performed for 150 seconds.

It should be noted that the information on the time value for sequentially performing the control of Cases 1 and 2 according to the external temperature conditions and the condition conditions of the storage room described in [Table 1] is information obtained through repeated experiments.

In the memory unit 280, mapped information as shown in Table 2 below may be further stored.

In detail, in [Table 2], for any one storage chamber condition condition described in [Table 1], when simultaneous cooling operation is started, when refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150, and the second evaporator 160 When the refrigerant shift occurs in the case, information on which the control time for cases 1 and 2 changes is stored.

Here, whether refrigerant is concentrated in the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 may be determined based on temperature information of the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 (see FIG. 4).

Whether refrigerant is pulled Case 1 (seconds) Case 2 (seconds) Simultaneous cooling operation start (reference value) t1 t2 When refrigerant is pulled from the first evaporator t1 t2+α When refrigerant is pulled from the second evaporator t1 t2-α

For example, when the simultaneous cooling operation condition is satisfied, that is, if one of the plurality of storage room condition conditions and external temperature information are recognized, according to any one of the plurality of pieces of information mapped in [Table 1]. , Simultaneous cooling operation starts. In detail, the control unit 200 maintains the first control state of the flow control unit 130 for t1 seconds, and then controls to maintain the second control state of the flow control unit 130 for t2 seconds.

Here, the numerical values of t1 and t2 will correspond to numerical values for each case described in [Table 1]. For example, when the external temperature is 25°C and the storage chamber condition is “cold start”, t1 may be 100 seconds and t2 may be 120 seconds.

As another example, when the external temperature is 25°C and the storage compartment condition is “simultaneous cooling of the storage compartment”, t1 may be 100 seconds and t2 may be 120 seconds.

The first and second control states of the flow control unit 130 may be alternately performed until the simultaneous cooling operation is not required.

Meanwhile, in a process in which the first and second control states of the flow control unit 130 are repeatedly performed, when the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber reaches a target temperature, the supply of refrigerant to at least one evaporator may be stopped ( Single evaporator operation). In addition, when the temperatures of both the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber reach target temperatures, the compressor 110 may be turned off.

On the other hand, when the single evaporator operation or the off state of the compressor 110 is maintained for a predetermined period of time, and simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber is required, the control unit 200 is based on the temperature values of the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, and 240. , Recognize whether the refrigerant is pulled from the evaporator.

If it is recognized that the refrigerant is concentrated in the first evaporator 150, the control unit 200 changes and applies the time values according to the cases 1 and 2. That is, when the refrigerant is shifted to the first evaporator 150, the refrigerant supply time to the second evaporator 160 needs to be relatively increased, so that the control time for the case 2 can be increased (t2 + α seconds). .

On the other hand, when it is recognized that the refrigerant shifting has occurred in the second evaporator 160, the control unit 200 decreases the control time for the case 2 in order to relatively increase the refrigerant supply time to the first evaporator 150. Can do it (t2-α seconds).

That is, when it is recognized that the refrigerant shifting has occurred in one evaporator, the control time for case 2 is adjusted to prevent the refrigerant shifting of the evaporator. Here, it may be recognized that the cooling load of the storage compartment in which the second evaporator 160 is disposed is smaller than the cooling load of the storage compartment in which the first evaporator 150 is disposed.

Consequently, the control time for case 1 for increasing the supply of refrigerant to the storage chamber with a large cooling load is fixed, and the control time for case 2 for increasing the supply of the refrigerant to the storage chamber with a small cooling load is configured to be changed. By configuring in this way, the cooling efficiency of the storage chamber having a large cooling load can be stably maintained.

The information on the time values for sequentially performing Cases 1 and 2 in the simultaneous cooling operation process described in [Table 2], and the changed time values for sequentially performing Cases 1 and 2 when the refrigerant flow of the evaporator occurs is a repeated experiment. It should be noted that it is the information obtained through.

On the other hand, for convenience of explanation, the control time of the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 described in [Table 1] and [Table 2] above is referred to as "first set time", and flow control according to case 2 The control time of the unit 130 may be referred to as a "second set time".

The refrigerator 10 includes a target temperature setting unit 290 capable of inputting a target temperature of a refrigerating compartment or a freezing compartment. For example, the target temperature setting unit 290 may be disposed on the front of the refrigerating compartment door or the freezing compartment door at a location convenient for user manipulation.

The information input through the target temperature setting unit 290 may be control reference information of the compressor 110, a plurality of blowing fans 125, 155, and 165, or the flow control unit 130. That is, based on the information input from the target temperature setting unit 280 and the information sensed by the storage room temperature sensor 250, the control unit 200 performs simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerator compartment and the freezing compartment, It is possible to determine whether to operate alone or to turn off the compressor 110.

For example, when the internal temperature of the freezing chamber and the refrigerating chamber is higher than the temperature input from the target temperature setting unit 290, the control unit 200 may perform simultaneous cooling operation with the compressor 110 and the flow control unit 130. ) To control.

On the other hand, if the internal temperature of the freezing chamber is higher than the temperature input from the target temperature setting unit 290 and the internal temperature of the refrigerating chamber is lower than the temperature input from the target temperature setting unit 290, the control unit 200 The compressor 110 and the flow control unit 130 are controlled to perform the independent operation of the freezing chamber.

In addition, when the internal temperatures of the freezing chamber and the refrigerating chamber are lower than the temperature input from the target temperature setting unit 290, the control unit 200 may turn off the operation of the compressor 110.

3 and 4 are flow charts showing a control method of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention. A method of controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

In order to operate the refrigerator, the first and second compressors 111 and 115 are started. When the compressor 110 is started, a refrigeration cycle according to compression-condensation-expansion-evaporation of the refrigerant may be driven. The refrigerant evaporated in the second evaporator 160 is compressed in the second compressor 115, and the compressed refrigerant is combined with the refrigerant evaporated in the first evaporator 150 and sucked into the first compressor 111. Can be (S11).

According to the driving of the refrigeration cycle, a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber may be initially performed. When a predetermined time elapses, the pressure value according to the refrigerant circulation may reach the set range. That is, the high pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the first and second compressors 111 and 115 and the low pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may be formed within a set range.

When the refrigerant high and low pressures are formed in the set range, the refrigeration cycle is stabilized and can be continuously driven. In this case, the target temperature of the refrigerator storage compartment may be set in advance (S12).

During driving of the refrigeration cycle, temperature conditions related to the internal temperature of the storage chamber and the external temperature of the refrigerator may be first detected through the plurality of temperature sensors 250 and 260. In addition, the sensed temperature condition and whether or not the compressor 110 is started may be considered, and the external temperature condition and the storage chamber condition condition described in [Table 1] may be determined (S13).

When the external temperature condition and the storage condition condition are determined, the simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber may be performed according to the mapping information shown in [Table 1].

That is, according to the case 1, a time control operation that can prevent the refrigerant from being drawn to the second evaporator 160 is first performed, and then according to the case 2, the refrigerant is prevented from being drawn to the first evaporator 150 A possible time control operation is performed (S14).

When the simultaneous cooling operation according to Cases 1 and 2 is performed once, it is recognized whether the simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber should be maintained. In detail, through the storage compartment temperature sensor 250, it may be detected whether the temperature of the refrigerating compartment or the freezing compartment has reached a target temperature.

If the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber reaches the target temperature, cooling of the storage chamber is unnecessary, so that simultaneous cooling operation is unnecessary.

Accordingly, the storage chamber that has not reached the target temperature can be individually cooled, that is, the evaporator of the storage chamber is independently operated, or when all the storage chambers have reached the target temperature, the operation of the compressor 110 can be turned off.

On the other hand, when the temperatures of both the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber have not reached the target temperature, the process returns to step S14 to perform simultaneous operation of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 again. This simultaneous operation may be performed repeatedly until at least one of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber reaches a target temperature (S15, S16).

When the simultaneous operation in step S14 and the operation in step S16 are completed, information on the driving time performed in each step may be stored in the memory unit 280. That is, the operation in steps S14 to S16 may be repeated in one cycle, and the operation time of step S14 and the operation time of step S16 may be stored while the operation of the refrigerator continues.

In addition, the driving time stored in this control step may be updated to the driving time stored in the next control process. And, the updated operation time, that is, the switching operation time of the flow control unit 130, can be used as information for time control in an emergency situation, for example, when a failure of the first and second evaporator inlet and outlet temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240 occurs. Yes (S17).

On the other hand, in step S16, the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber may be increased when time elapses in a state in which one evaporator is independently operated or the operation of the compressor 110 is turned off.

When the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber rises outside the target temperature range, cooling of the increased storage chamber may be required, or cooling of the compressor 110 in the off state may be required. At this time, it may be detected whether the external temperature condition described in [Table 1] or the temperature condition of the storage room has changed.

That is, whether the external temperature has been changed outside the control standard range, for example, when the external temperature is changed from 17°C to 15°C, whether cold start has been performed in the off state of the compressor 110, whether a load response of the storage room has occurred, or Whether or not simultaneous cooling of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber is required may be detected (S18, S19).

If there is no change in the external temperature condition or the state condition of the storage room, that is, if there is no change in the condition recognized in step S13, steps below "A" shown in FIG. 4 are performed.

On the other hand, if the external temperature condition or the state condition of the storage room is changed, that is, if the change is made in the condition recognized in step S13, according to the mapped information of the changed external temperature condition and the storage room condition condition, Cases 1 and 2 Simultaneous cooling operation of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may be performed according to (S20, S21).

In summary, since the refrigerator is a constantly driven product, in the process of repeatedly turning on/off the compressor and changing the temperature of the storage compartment after the refrigerator is turned on, the external temperature conditions listed in [Table 1] and the state conditions of the storage compartment are mapped. Based on the information, the control of the flow control unit 130 according to the cases 1 and 2 may be repeatedly performed.

This control method may be performed until the power of the refrigerator is turned off and the simultaneous operation (time control) of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 is terminated (S22 and S23).

In this way, in the process of simultaneous operation of the first and second evaporators, the control of the flow control unit 130 according to Cases 1 and 2 to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled from the first and second evaporators can be sequentially performed. Therefore, the cooling efficiency of the storage compartment and the operating efficiency of the refrigerator may be improved.

On the other hand, when the external temperature condition or the state condition of the storage chamber is not changed in step S20, whether to change the control time may be determined based on the inlet and outlet temperatures of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160.

In detail, referring to FIG. 4, when the external temperature condition or the state condition of the storage compartment is not changed in step S20, the simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment may be performed again based on the condition recognized in step S13. (S31).

In the process of performing the simultaneous cooling operation again, it may be determined whether the control time of the flow control unit 130 according to Cases 1 and 2 is changed.

In detail, the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature of the first evaporator 150 may be detected by the first inlet temperature sensor 210 and the first outlet temperature sensor 220. In addition, the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature of the second evaporator 160 may be detected by the second inlet temperature sensor 230 and the second outlet temperature sensor 240 (S32).

Based on the sensed temperature information, it may be recognized whether the temperature sensors 210 and 220 of the first evaporator 150 or the temperature sensors 230 and 240 of the second evaporator 160 have an error or failure. For example, when the temperature information sensed by the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240 falls within an abnormal range, for example, when the refrigeration cycle is out of the allowable range (limit range) in the process of driving, the temperature sensor 210, 220, 230, 240 has an error or It can be recognized that a fault has occurred.

If the temperature sensor (210, 220, 230, 240) is not recognized as an error or failure, the control unit 200 is the difference between the temperature of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the inlet and outlet temperature of the second evaporator 160 The difference value can be determined.

When the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is equal to or greater than the appropriate amount of refrigerant, the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 decreases. Conversely, when the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is less than an appropriate amount of refrigerant, the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 increases.

The control unit 200 may recognize whether the information on the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 falls within a set range. Here, the “set range” is understood as a range of a degree to which one of the evaporators can recognize whether or not the refrigerant is drawn off.

That is, the controller 200 flows the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 based on a temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 Whether or not the refrigerant is insufficient, that is, whether the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is drawn may be recognized.

In detail, whether the refrigerant flowing through the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is excessive or insufficient, the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 or the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the first evaporator 150 2 It may be determined based on the difference value of the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the evaporator 160 or a ratio thereof (S34).

Hereinafter, a detailed determination method will be described.

As an example of the determination method, whether or not the refrigerant is drawn may be determined according to whether the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is equal to a preset reference value or greater or less than the reference value.

The refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle is branched and flows through the flow conversion unit 130 to the first evaporator 150 and the second evaporator 160, and detects a temperature difference at the entrance and exit of the first evaporator 150 Then, the ratio of the refrigerant passing through the first evaporator 150 can be recognized, and the ratio of the refrigerant passing through the second evaporator 150 can be recognized based on the ratio of the refrigerant passing through the first evaporator 160. have.

For example, if the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is greater than the reference value, it is determined that the amount of refrigerant is insufficient, and conversely, it may be recognized that the amount of refrigerant is relatively large in the second evaporator 160.

In this embodiment, a method of determining whether or not the refrigerant is drawn by using the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 will be described. Of course, it may be determined whether or not the refrigerant is drawn by using the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160.

When the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is the same as a preset reference value (reference temperature), it may be recognized that refrigerant is not drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160.

In this case, returning to step S14, based on the information stored in the memory unit 280, that is, information mapped during simultaneous cooling operation, the flow control unit 130 may be controlled. That is, as shown in [Table 2], the control states according to Cases 1 and 2 can be maintained at t1 and t2, respectively.

On the other hand, when the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is not equal to a preset reference value, or greater or less than the reference value, refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160. Is recognized as

In detail, when the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is smaller than the preset reference value, it is recognized that relatively large amounts of refrigerant pass through the first evaporator 150. That is, it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150.

In this case, the control state of the flow control unit 130 according to Case 1 is maintained at t1, corresponding to "when refrigerant is concentrated in the first evaporator" as described in [Table 2], and the flow control unit according to Case 2 ( 130) is maintained at t1+α. That is, in preparation for the case of "simultaneous cooling operation start", the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first evaporator 150 can be relatively reduced by increasing the control time of the flow control unit 130 according to case 2 (S35). ,S36).

Conversely, when the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is greater than the preset reference value, it is recognized that a relatively small amount of refrigerant passes through the first evaporator 150. That is, it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator 160.

In this case, as described in [Table 2], corresponding to "when refrigerant is concentrated in the second evaporator", the control state of the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is maintained at t1, and the flow control unit according to case 2 ( 130) is maintained at t1-α. That is, in preparation for the case of "simultaneous cooling operation start", the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first evaporator 150 can be relatively increased by reducing the control time of the flow control unit 130 according to case 2.

In this way, by changing the control time of the flow control unit 130 based on the information on the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators 150, 160, the refrigerant of the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 It can prevent pulling (S37, S38).

When the control time of the flow control unit 130 is changed by the above method, the changed control time value is stored or updated in the memory unit 280 unless the power of the refrigerator is turned off and the simultaneous evaporator operation control is terminated. , S14 can be performed again.

At this time, the information stored or updated in the memory unit 280 includes time information at which the flow control unit 130 is actually operated (switched), and can be used as information for time control in case of an emergency situation in the future. Yes (S39, S40, S41).

As another example of the determination method in step S34, whether the ratio of the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 is the same as the first set value, or the first set value It is possible to determine whether the refrigerant is drawn or not depending on whether it is larger or smaller. For example, the first set value may be 1.

When the ratio of the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 to the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 is 1, that is, when the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 is the same, the first It is recognized that the refrigerant is not drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160.

On the other hand, when the ratio of the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 to the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 is greater than 1, that is, the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is the second When the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the evaporator 160 is greater than the temperature difference, it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator 160.

And, when the ratio of the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 to the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 is less than 1, that is, the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is the second evaporator If it is smaller than the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of 160, it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150.

As another example of the determination method in step S34, whether the difference value between the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 is the same as the second set value, or the second Whether or not the refrigerant is drawn can be determined according to whether it is larger or smaller than the set value. For example, the second set value may be 0.

When a value obtained by subtracting the temperature difference at the entrance and exit of the second evaporator 160 from the temperature difference at the entrance and exit of the first evaporator 150 is 0, that is, when the temperature difference at the entrance and exit of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 is the same, the first It is recognized that the refrigerant is not drawn to the evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160.

On the other hand, when a value obtained by subtracting the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 from the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is greater than 0, that is, the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is the second evaporator. When it is greater than the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of 160, it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator 160.

And, when a value obtained by subtracting the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 from the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is less than 0, that is, the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 is equal to the second evaporator ( If it is smaller than the temperature difference of the inlet and outlet of 160), it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150.

On the other hand, if it is recognized that an error or failure has occurred in the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240 in step S33, control time information stored in the simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerator, that is, the operation (switching) time of the flow control unit 130 The information can be applied to subsequent refrigerator operation.

Then, returning to step S14, based on the stored operation time information of the flow control unit 130, the simultaneous cooling operation of the first evaporator 150 and the second evaporator 160 is performed (S42).

According to this control method, when a problem occurs in the evaporator side temperature sensor while operating based on the control time information of the flow control unit 130 shown in [Table 1] and the variable control time information shown in [Table 2]. , Since it is possible to control the operation of the flow control unit 130 by using the time information that has been previously driven, there is an effect that stable and continuous operation of the refrigerator is possible. In other words, there is an effect that it is not necessary to perform the control method from the beginning by using the time value shown in [Table 1].

Hereinafter, the second and third embodiments of the present invention will be described. Since these embodiments differ only in some configurations compared to the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described, and the description of the first embodiment and reference numerals are used for the same parts as the first embodiment.

5 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4, in the refrigerator 10 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerant pipe 100 for guiding the flow of the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 120, and the refrigerant pipe 100 are installed. A flow control unit 130 for branching the refrigerant into the first and second evaporators 150 and 160, and a plurality of refrigerant passages 101, 103, 105 and 107 extending from the outlet side of the flow control unit 130 to the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 Is included.

The plurality of refrigerant passages 101, 103, 105, and 107 are understood as "branch passages" branched from the refrigerant pipe 100, and a first refrigerant passage 101 and a third refrigerant passage 105 connected to the first evaporator 150 ), and a second refrigerant passage 103 and a fourth refrigerant passage 107 connected to the second evaporator 160.

The first and third refrigerant passages 101 and 105 are called “first evaporation passages” in that they guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator 150, and the second and fourth refrigerant passages 103 and 107 are In terms of guiding the inflow of the refrigerant into the second evaporator 160, it may be referred to as a "second evaporation channel".

The refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 101 and the third refrigerant passage 105 may be laminated and then introduced into the first evaporator 150. In addition, after the refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant passage 103 and the fourth refrigerant passage 107 is laminated, it may be introduced into the second evaporator 160.

And, as described in the first embodiment, the refrigerant discharged from the second evaporator 160 is sucked into the second compressor 115, and the refrigerant compressed by the second compressor 115 is the first evaporator ( It may be combined with the refrigerant discharged from 150) and sucked into the first compressor 111.

In the plurality of refrigerant passages 101, 103, 105 and 107, a plurality of expansion devices 141, 143, 145, and 147 are disposed. The plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145, 147) includes a capillary tube. In detail, the plurality of expansion devices 141, 143, 145, and 147 include a first expansion device 141 disposed in the first refrigerant passage 101, a second expansion device 143 disposed in the second refrigerant passage 103, And a third expansion device 145 disposed in the third refrigerant passage 105 and a fourth expansion device 147 disposed in the fourth refrigerant passage 107.

The flow control unit 130 may include a five-way valve including one inlet through which the refrigerant is introduced and four outlets through which the refrigerant is discharged. The four outlets may be connected to the first to fourth refrigerant passages 101, 103, 105, and 107.

Under the control of the flow control unit 130, at least one of the first refrigerant passage 101 and the third refrigerant passage 105, the second refrigerant passage 103 and the fourth refrigerant passage At least one of the refrigerant passages of 107 may be opened. Of course, any one of the first evaporation passages 101 and 105 and the second evaporation passages 103 and 107 may be closed.

For example, when the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105 are open and the fourth refrigerant passage 107 is closed, the amount of refrigerant flowing into the first evaporator 150 is the second evaporator 160 It may be more than the amount of refrigerant flowing into it.

On the other hand, when the first, second, and fourth refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 107 are opened and the third refrigerant passage 105 is closed, the amount of refrigerant flowing into the second evaporator 160 is the first evaporator 150 ) May be more than the amount of refrigerant flowing into it.

In this way, a plurality of refrigerant flow paths and an expansion device are provided at the inlet side of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160, and the plurality of refrigerant flow paths according to whether the refrigerant flowing into the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 Since the refrigerant flow rate can be controlled by opening or closing at least one of the refrigerant flow paths, it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled through any one evaporator during simultaneous operation of the plurality of evaporators.

As for the control method of the refrigerator according to the present embodiment, a description of the control method described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 will be used. However, the control state of the flow control unit 130 according to cases 1 and 2 is changed.

In detail, when the flow control unit 130 is controlled so that the first to third refrigerant passages 10, 103 and 105 are opened and the fourth refrigerant passage 107 is closed, the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator 150 is As a case of relatively increasing, time control according to Case 1 described in [Table 1] and [Table 2] may be applied.

And, when the flow control unit 130 is controlled so that the first, second and fourth refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 107 are opened and the third refrigerant passage 105 is closed, the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator 160 As a case where this is relatively increased, time control according to case 2 described in [Table 1] and [Table 2] can be applied.

In this way, since the amount of refrigerant passing through the first evaporation passages 101 and 105 and the second evaporation passages 103 and 107 can be controlled by controlling the flow control unit 130, the flow to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 Since it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled, there is an advantage that cooling efficiency can be improved and power consumption can be reduced.

6 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 6, in the refrigerator 10 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerant pipe 100 for guiding the flow of the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 120 and the refrigerant pipe 100 are installed. A flow control unit 130 for branching the refrigerant into the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 and a plurality of refrigerant passages 201 and 203 extending from the outlet side of the flow control unit 130 to the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 Is included.

The plurality of refrigerant passages 201 and 203 are understood as "branch passages" branched from the refrigerant pipe 100, and the first refrigerant passage 201 and the second evaporator 160 connected to the first evaporator 150 A second refrigerant flow path 203 connected to) is included.

In the plurality of refrigerant passages 201 and 203, a plurality of expansion devices 241 and 243 are disposed. A capillary tube is included in the plurality of expansion devices 241 and 243. In detail, the plurality of expansion devices 241 and 243 include a first expansion device 241 disposed in the first refrigerant passage 201 and a second expansion device 243 disposed in the second refrigerant passage 203 Included.

The flow control unit 130 may include a three-way valve including one inlet through which the refrigerant is introduced and two outlets through which the refrigerant is discharged. The two outlets may be connected to the first and second refrigerant passages 201 and 203. The flow control unit 130 may be controlled so that the refrigerant can be simultaneously introduced into the first and second refrigerant passages 201 and 203.

The refrigerator 10 includes flow rate control units 251 and 253 for controlling the flow of refrigerant. The flow rate control units 251 and 253 may be installed in at least one of the first refrigerant passage 201 and the second refrigerant passage 203. For example, in the flow rate control units 251 and 253, a first flow rate control unit 251 installed in the first refrigerant passage 201 and a second flow rate control unit 253 installed in the second refrigerant passage 203 ) Is included.

The first flow rate control unit 251 and the second flow rate control unit 253 may include an electric expansion valve (EV) capable of adjusting an opening degree.

In FIG. 6, the first and second flow rate control units 251 and 253 are shown to be provided at the outlet sides of the first and second expansion devices 241 and 243, respectively. However, unlike the first and second expansion devices 241 and 243, It may be provided separately on the inlet side.

When the opening degree of the first flow rate control unit 251 or the second flow rate control unit 253 decreases, the amount of refrigerant flowing through the reduced opening degree decreases, and when the opening degree increases, the amount of refrigerant flowing through the increased opening degree is Will increase.

For example, when the opening degree of the first flow rate control unit 251 is relatively larger than the opening degree of the second flow rate control unit 253, the refrigerant flows more through the first refrigerant flow path 201 and the first evaporator The amount of refrigerant flowing into 150 may be increased.

On the other hand, if the opening degree of the second flow rate control unit 253 is relatively larger than the opening degree of the first flow rate control unit 251, the refrigerant flows more through the second refrigerant flow path 203 to the second evaporator. The amount of refrigerant introduced into 160 may be increased.

By providing the first and second flow control units 251 and 253, it is possible to finely control the opening of the refrigerant flow path, and accordingly, the amount of refrigerant to be introduced into the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160 is up to a minute level. Can be adjustable. As a result, during the simultaneous operation of the first and second evaporators, it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160.

We propose another embodiment.

In FIG. 6, the first and second flow rate control units 251 and 253 are respectively provided to the first and second refrigerant passages 201 and 203, but unlike this, the first refrigerant passage 201 or the second refrigerant passage 203 ) May be provided with a single flow control.

The flow rate control unit is provided in one of the refrigerant passages to adjust the opening degree, so that the amount of refrigerant passing through the other refrigerant passage may be relatively adjusted. That is, when the opening degree of the flow control unit is increased, the amount of refrigerant passing through the other refrigerant flow path is reduced, and when the opening degree of the flow control unit is decreased, the amount of refrigerant passing through the other refrigerant flow channel may be increased.

Another embodiment is proposed.

The flow rate control units 251 and 253 described in FIG. 6 may be provided to the plurality of refrigerant passages 101.103, 105, and 107 described in the first and second embodiments, respectively. In this case, the flow rate of the refrigerant can be adjusted to a fine level.

As for the control method of the refrigerator according to the present embodiment, a description of the control method described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 will be used. However, the control state of the first and second flow rate controllers 251 and 253 according to Cases 1 and 2 is changed.

In detail, when the first and second flow rate controllers 251 and 253 are controlled so that the amount of refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 201 increases, the amount of refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant passage 203 is increased, [Table 1] And time control according to Case 1 described in [Table 2] may be applied. As an example, the opening degree of the first flow rate control unit 251 may be controlled to be larger than that of the second flow rate control unit 253.

In addition, when the first and second flow rate control units 251 and 253 are controlled so that the amount of refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant passage 203 increases, the amount of refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 201 is increased, [Table 1] And time control according to Case 2 described in [Table 2] may be applied. As an example, the opening degree of the second flow control unit 253 may be controlled to be greater than the opening degree of the first flow control unit 251.

In this way, the amount of refrigerant passing through the first refrigerant passage 201 and the second refrigerant passage 203 can be controlled by controlling the opening degrees of the flow control unit 130 and the first and second flow control units 251 and 253, Since it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160, there is an advantage that cooling efficiency can be improved and power consumption can be reduced.

7 is a flow chart showing a control method of a refrigerator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 7, a method of controlling a refrigerator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

In order to operate the refrigerator, the first and second compressors 111 and 115 are started. When the compressor 110 is started, a refrigeration cycle according to compression-condensation-expansion-evaporation of the refrigerant may be driven. The refrigerant evaporated in the second evaporator 160 is compressed in the second compressor 115, and the compressed refrigerant is combined with the refrigerant evaporated in the first evaporator 150 and sucked into the first compressor 111. Can be (S51).

According to the driving of the refrigeration cycle, a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber may be initially performed. When a predetermined time elapses, the pressure value according to the refrigerant circulation may reach the set range. That is, the high pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the first and second compressors 111 and 115 and the low pressure of the refrigerant discharged from the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may be formed within a set range.

When the refrigerant high and low pressures are formed in the set range, the refrigeration cycle is stabilized and can be continuously driven. In this case, the target temperature of the refrigerator storage compartment may be set in advance (S52).

When the refrigeration cycle is driven, a simultaneous cooling operation in which the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber can be simultaneously cooled is performed. The simultaneous cooling operation is performed when the temperature of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber is higher than the target temperature, and when the temperature of any one storage chamber reaches the target temperature, the cooling operation of the storage chamber may be stopped (S53).

In the process of performing the simultaneous cooling operation, the temperature of the inlet and outlet of the first evaporator 150 and the temperature of the inlet and outlet of the second evaporator 160 may be sensed through a plurality of temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, and 240 (S54).

It may be recognized whether information on the inlet and outlet temperatures of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 falls within a set range. The recognition method at this time uses the method determined in step S34 of FIG. 4.

If the information on the inlet/outlet temperature of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 falls within the set range, it is recognized that refrigerant is not drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160, and the steps below S53 Continue.

On the other hand, if the information about the inlet and outlet temperatures of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 does not fall within the set range, it is recognized that refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150 or the second evaporator 160, and the flow is controlled. The control state of the unit 130 may be changed.

That is, when it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator 150, the flow control unit 130 is changed to the second control state according to the case 2, and the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator 160. If recognized, the flow control unit 130 may be changed to the first control state according to Case 1 (S56).

In addition, operation time information according to the control state of the flow control unit 130, that is, control time information of simultaneous cooling operation may be stored or updated. In summary, while the simultaneous cooling operation is performed according to the repetitive driving of the refrigeration cycle, the operating time according to the control state of the flow control unit 130 may be stored.

In detail, during the operation time according to the control state of the flow control unit 130, the first control state of the flow control unit 130, that is, time information during which the control state according to case 1 is maintained, and the flow control unit 130 ) Of the second control state, that is, the time information in which the control state according to case 2 is maintained.

In the process of performing the simultaneous cooling operation, it may be recognized whether an error or failure has occurred in the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, and 240 of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160. The recognition method at this time uses the method determined in step S33 of FIG. 4.

If an error or failure has not occurred in the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, 240, the operation time information of the flow control unit 130 may be continuously stored or updated while performing steps S53 to S57.

On the other hand, when an error or failure occurs in the temperature sensors 210, 220, 230, and 240, the simultaneous cooling operation may be performed according to the control time information of the flow control unit 130 stored or updated during the simultaneous cooling operation.

In this way, by being configured to store or update the operating time information of the flow control unit 130, even if a failure or error occurs in the evaporator side temperature sensor, it is not necessary to perform the control method from the beginning, and the time information that has been previously driven is used. Since simultaneous cooling operation can be performed, there is an effect that stable and continuous operation of the refrigerator is possible.

10: refrigerator 101: first refrigerant flow path
103: second refrigerant passage 105: third refrigerant passage
107: fourth refrigerant flow passage 111,115: first and second compressors
120: condenser 130: flow control unit
141: first expansion device 143: second expansion device
145: third expansion device 147: fourth expansion device
150: first evaporator 160: second evaporator
200: control unit 210: first inlet temperature sensor
220: first outlet temperature sensor 230: second inlet temperature sensor
240: second outlet temperature sensor 250: storage room temperature sensor
260: external temperature sensor 270: timer
280: memory unit 290: target temperature setting unit

Claims (20)

A compressor, a condenser, a first and second evaporators, and a valve device provided at an inlet side of the first and second evaporators to supply refrigerant to at least one of the first and second evaporators to supply cool air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber ,
A refrigerator that performs any one of an independent operation of the refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber and a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber according to the control state of the valve device,
A sensor that detects whether refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator during the simultaneous cooling operation; And
And a control unit for changing a control state of the valve device so as to reduce supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is concentrated, based on the value sensed by the sensor,
When the control unit recognizes that a failure of the sensor has occurred,
A refrigerator configured to control the valve device to adjust the amount of refrigerant flowing into at least one of the first evaporator and the second evaporator based on at least one of operation information of the refrigerator and an external temperature of the refrigerator The method of claim 1,
The valve device,
A refrigerator including a flow control unit configured to branch and inflow the refrigerant into at least one of the plurality of inlet passages of the first and second evaporators or to simultaneously flow the refrigerant into the plurality of inlet passages. The method of claim 1,
The valve device,
A refrigerator comprising a flow rate controller installed in at least one of a first refrigerant passage connected to the first evaporator and a second refrigerant passage connected to the second evaporator to control a flow amount of the refrigerant. The method of claim 1,
The operation information of the refrigerator,
Information on the cold start operation in which the compressor has started,
Information on load-response operation in which the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber has risen above a set temperature, and
Among the information on the simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerator compartment and the freezing compartment,
Refrigerator comprising at least one. The method of claim 1,
The sensor includes a temperature sensor,
The control unit,
A refrigerator configured to determine whether or not refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator based on a temperature difference at the inlet and outlet ports of the first and second evaporators sensed by the temperature sensor. A compressor, a condenser, a first and second evaporators, and a valve device provided at an inlet side of the first and second evaporators to supply refrigerant to at least one of the first and second evaporators to supply cool air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, and ,
A refrigerator that performs any one of an independent operation of the refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber and a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber according to the control state of the valve device,
A sensor that detects whether refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator during the simultaneous cooling operation; And
And a control unit for changing a control state of the valve device so as to reduce supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is pulled based on the value sensed by the sensor,
When the control unit recognizes that a failure of the sensor has occurred,
A refrigerator configured to control the valve device based on at least two factors to adjust an amount of refrigerant flowing into at least one of the first evaporator and the second evaporator. The method of claim 6,
The two factors are,
A refrigerator including an external temperature of the refrigerator and operation information of the refrigerator. The method of claim 6,
The control unit,
A refrigerator for adjusting the control state of the valve device according to the first and second set times so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first and second evaporators is varied. The method of claim 8,
The first control state of the valve device,
In a state in which the valve device is adjusted so that an amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator is greater than an amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator during the first set time,
The second control state of the valve device,
A refrigerator in a state in which the valve device is adjusted so that an amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator is greater than an amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator during the second set time. The method of claim 9,
First and third refrigerant passages connecting the valve device and the first evaporator; And
Further comprising a second refrigerant passage connecting the valve device and the second evaporator,
A refrigerator in which a first control state of the valve device is a state in which the first to third refrigerant passages are opened, and a second control state of the valve device is a state in which one of the first and second refrigerant passages is closed. The method of claim 9,
First and third refrigerant passages connecting the valve device and the first evaporator; And
Further comprising second and fourth refrigerant passages connecting the valve device and the second evaporator,
The first control state of the valve device is a state in which the first and third refrigerant passages are opened and one of the second and fourth refrigerant passages is closed,
The second control state of the valve device is a state in which the second and fourth refrigerant passages are opened and one of the first and third refrigerant passages is closed. The method of claim 9,
A first refrigerant passage connecting the valve device and the first evaporator; And
Further comprising a first refrigerant passage connecting the valve device and the second evaporator,
The first control state of the valve device is a state in which the opening degree of the first refrigerant passage is adjusted to be larger than the opening degree of the second refrigerant passage,
The second control state of the valve device is a refrigerator in which an opening degree of the second refrigerant passage is adjusted to be greater than an opening degree of the first refrigerant passage. The method of claim 8,
The control unit,
When it is recognized that refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator, the first set time or the second set time is changed so that the difference between the first and second set times increases,
A refrigerator in which the first set time or the second set time is changed so that a difference between the first and second set times decreases when it is recognized that the refrigerant is drawn to the second evaporator. A compressor, a condenser, a first and second evaporators, and a valve device provided at an inlet side of the first and second evaporators to supply refrigerant to at least one of the first and second evaporators to supply cool air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, and ,
A refrigerator that performs any one of an independent operation of the refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber and a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber according to the control state of the valve device,
A sensor that detects whether refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator during the simultaneous cooling operation; And
And a control unit for changing a control state of the valve device so as to reduce supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is pulled based on the value sensed by the sensor,
When the controller recognizes that a failure of the sensor has occurred while the independent operation of the refrigerating compartment is performed or the independent operation of the freezing compartment is performed, the refrigerator controls the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment to be simultaneously cooled. The method of claim 14,
The control unit,
A refrigerator configured to control the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment to maintain simultaneous cooling operation when the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment recognize that a failure of the sensor has occurred while a simultaneous cooling operation is being performed. The method of claim 14,
When performing simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber,
And the control unit alternately performs a first control state and a second control state of the valve device. The method of claim 16,
The first control state of the valve device is a state in which the valve device is adjusted so that an amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator is greater than an amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator,
The second control state of the valve device is a state in which the valve device is adjusted so that an amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator is greater than an amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator. The method of claim 16,
The time value of the first control state and the time value of the second control state are stored in advance,
When a failure of the sensor is recognized, the control unit controls the valve device according to a stored time value in the first and second control states. The method of claim 17,
The sensor includes a temperature sensor for sensing the inlet and outlet temperatures of the first and second evaporators,
The controller recognizes that a failure of the temperature sensor has occurred when the temperature of the inlet and outlet of the first and second evaporators exceeds a limit range. A compressor, a condenser, a first and second evaporators, and a valve device provided at an inlet side of the first and second evaporators to supply refrigerant to at least one of the first and second evaporators to supply cool air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, and ,
A refrigerator that performs any one of an independent operation of the refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber and a simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber according to the control state of the valve device,
A sensor that detects whether refrigerant is drawn to the first evaporator or the second evaporator during the simultaneous cooling operation; And
And a control unit for changing a control state of the valve device so as to reduce supply of refrigerant to the evaporator in which refrigerant is pulled based on the value sensed by the sensor,
When the control unit recognizes that a failure of the sensor has occurred,
At least one of the first evaporator and the second evaporator is adjusted by adjusting the valve device based on information about a time when the refrigerant flows into the first evaporator previously stored and a time when the refrigerant flows into the second evaporator previously stored. A refrigerator that controls the amount of refrigerant flowing into the refrigerator to be adjusted.

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