KR20210040018A - A refrigerator and a control method the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a control method thereof. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control method of the refrigerator comprises the following steps of: operating a compressor to drive a refrigeration cycle including a first evaporator and a second evaporator; supplying a refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator according to the driving of the refrigeration cycle so as to simultaneously supply cooling air to a refrigerating compartment and a freezing compartment; increasing a flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator for a first predetermined time to restrict the concentration of the refrigerant to the second evaporator; and increasing the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator for a second predetermined time to restrict the concentration of the refrigerant to the first evaporator.

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, a plurality of storage rooms are configured to perform independent cooling 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 above prior 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 stop cooling of the other storage chambers. do.

As described above, in the related art, instead of simultaneously cooling a plurality of storage chambers, 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 is out of the normal range.

In addition, when it is detected that the temperature of the other storage compartment is out of the normal range in a state in which one storage compartment needs to be cooled, there is a problem that the 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 that the operating efficiency of the refrigerator is deteriorated.

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 evaporator among 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 site, so that a large amount of refrigerant flows into one evaporator and a relatively small amount of refrigerant flows into the other 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; Supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator according to the driving of the refrigeration cycle, thereby simultaneously supplying cool air to the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber; Limiting the flow of the refrigerant to the second evaporator by increasing the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator for a first set time; And increasing the flow rate of the refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator for a second set time, thereby limiting the flow of the refrigerant to the first evaporator.

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 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 storage compartment temperature sensor for sensing an internal temperature of the refrigerating compartment or freezing compartment; An external temperature sensor for sensing temperatures outside the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber; A flow control unit for adjusting an amount of refrigerant flowing through the plurality of refrigerant passages; A memory unit for mapping and storing information on a control time of the flow control unit according to the information sensed by the storage room temperature sensor and the external temperature sensor; And a control unit controlling the flow control unit to simultaneously supply the refrigerant to the first and second evaporators based on the information mapped to the memory unit.

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

In particular, 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 predetermined time value according to temperature conditions inside and outside the refrigerator, so that the refrigerant can be effectively distributed to the plurality of evaporators. There is this.

Eventually, according to a set time period, a first control process of increasing the amount of refrigerant supplied to one of the plurality of evaporators and a second control process of increasing the amount of refrigerant supplied to other evaporators can be performed. There is an advantage in that it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled through an evaporator or other evaporator.

In addition, there is an effect that cost can be reduced since it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled through a method of controlling the operation of the flow control unit according to a time period without the need for a separate control part.

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

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-pressure 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 a 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 is a flow chart showing a method for controlling a refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to a third 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 A plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145) for depressurizing 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 for guiding the flow of the refrigerant by connecting the plurality of compressors 111 and 115, the condensers 120, the expansion devices 141, 143 and 145, and the evaporators 150 and 160.

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.

In the plurality of expansion devices (141, 143, 145), 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. The first to third expansion devices 141, 143, and 145 may include a capillary tube.

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 In order to be formed to be 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. After the refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 101 and the third refrigerant passage 105 is laminated, it may flow 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 passage 103 includes a second refrigerant passage 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 introducing the refrigerant into the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103, and 105. The flow control unit 130 operates so that at least one evaporator 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 at the same time.

The flow control unit 130 includes a four-way valve having one inlet portion through which the refrigerant is introduced and three outlet portions 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 open, 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 be changed according to the control of the flow control unit 130. In addition, 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 simultaneously operated, 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 flows 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 opened. 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 that 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 capability of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may vary according to the rotational speed of the first and second evaporation 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 the cold air is sufficient, 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, and FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing a control method of the 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 210, 220, 230 for sensing the temperature inside the refrigerator storage compartment or the temperature outside the refrigerator, that is, the temperature of an indoor space in which the refrigerator is installed. Is included.

The plurality of temperature sensors 210, 220, 230 include a refrigerator compartment temperature sensor 210 for sensing the internal temperature of the refrigerator compartment, a freezing compartment temperature sensor 220 for sensing the internal temperature of the freezing compartment, and an external temperature sensor for sensing the external temperature of the refrigerator ( 230). The sensors 210 and 220 are referred to as "storage room temperature sensor".

In addition, the refrigerator 10 further includes a control unit 200 that controls the operation of the flow control unit 130 based on temperature values sensed by the plurality of temperature sensors 210, 220, and 230. The control unit 200 includes the first and second compressors 111 and 115, the condensation fan 125, and the first and second evaporation fans 155 and 165 for simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber, or cooling operation of any one of the storage chambers. ) Operation can be controlled.

The refrigerator 10 further includes a timer 240 for accumulating a time elapsed value for the operation of the flow control unit 130 during simultaneous cooling operation of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber. For example, the timer 240 is a time elapsed while the first to third refrigerant passages 101, 103 and 105 are all open, or a time elapsed with only the first and second refrigerant passages 101 and 103 open, etc. Can be accumulated.

In the refrigerator 10, a time value for simultaneous operation of the refrigerator compartment and the freezing compartment is stored 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 250 that has been mapped and stored in advance is further included.

In detail, an external temperature value may be detected through the external temperature sensor 230, and the temperature value detected by the refrigerating chamber temperature sensor 210 or the freezing chamber temperature sensor 220 or information on whether the compressor 110 is started. Through this, the state condition or state information of the storage room may be determined. 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 starting, and until the pressure of the refrigerant is formed in the step S12 in FIG. 3. 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 time and a sudden temperature rise above the set temperature is made. In the "refrigerating compartment load response" state, the temperature of the refrigerator compartment is In the case of a sudden rise, it is understood as a state in which, for example, the door of the refrigerator compartment is opened for a long time and the temperature suddenly rises 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 this embodiment, the memory unit 250 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 Refrigerating room 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 control unit 130. On the other hand, "Case 2" is a 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 drawn to the first evaporator 150, and is understood to be the "second control state" of the flow controller 130. For example, When the state condition of the storage room is in the "cooling operation" state and the external temperature of the refrigerator is 16°C or less, the control of the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is performed for 90 seconds, and then the flow control unit 130 according to case 2 is performed. ), the control 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. ), the control unit is performed for 120 seconds.

As another example, when the state condition of the storage compartment is a "freezing compartment 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 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 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 “corresponding 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 state condition of the storage compartment is “simultaneous cooling of the storage 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 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.

The control time of the flow control unit 130 according to case 1 is referred to as a "first set time", and the control time of the flow control unit 130 according to case 2 is referred to as a "second set time".

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.

The refrigerator 10 includes a target temperature setting unit 260 capable of inputting a target temperature of a refrigerating compartment or a freezing compartment. For example, the target temperature setting unit 260 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 260 may be control reference information of the compressor 110, a plurality of blowing fans 125, 155 and 165, or the flow control unit 130.

Referring to FIG. 3, a method of controlling a refrigerator according to the present embodiment 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 (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 210, 220, and 230. In addition, the sensed temperature condition and whether or not the compressor 110 is started are considered, and the external temperature condition and the storage room condition condition described in [Table 1] may be determined (S13).

When the external temperature condition and the storage condition condition are determined, 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 to prevent the refrigerant from flowing to the second evaporator 160 is first performed, and then, according to the case 2, the refrigerant from the first evaporator 150 is prevented. 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 refrigerating chamber temperature sensor 210 and the freezing chamber temperature sensor 220, it may be detected whether the temperature of the refrigerating chamber or the freezing chamber 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).

In step S16, the temperature of the refrigerating compartment or the freezing compartment may be increased when time elapses in a state in which one evaporator is independently operated or 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 can be detected whether the external temperature condition described in [Table 1] or the temperature condition of the storage room has been changed.

That is, when the external temperature is changed outside the control standard range, for example, when the external temperature is changed from 17°C to 15°C, whether cooling has been performed in the off state of the compressor 110, whether a load response has occurred in the storage compartment, or the refrigerating compartment And whether simultaneous cooling of the freezer compartment is required or the like may be detected (S17, S18).

If there is no change in the external temperature condition or the condition condition of the storage room, that is, if there is no change in the condition recognized in step S13, according to the mapped information of the existing external temperature condition and the storage room condition condition, according to Cases 1 and 2 Simultaneous cooling operation of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 may be performed (S19, S20).

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 (S23).

In summary, since refrigerators are always driven products, in the process of repeatedly turning on/off the compressor after turning on the refrigerator and changing the temperature of the storage compartment, 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 (S21, S22, and S24).

In this way, in the process of simultaneous operation of the first and second evaporators, control of the flow control unit 130 according to Cases 1 and 2, which prevents 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.

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.

4 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 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, 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 referred to as "first evaporation passages" in that they guide the inflow of the 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".

After the refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant passage 101 and the third refrigerant passage 105 is laminated, it may flow into the first evaporator 150. In addition, the refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant passage 103 and the fourth refrigerant passage 107 may be laminated and then 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, 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 are included.

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.

According to 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 opened 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 open 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 passages and expansion devices are provided at the inlet sides of the first and second evaporators 150 and 160, and the plurality of refrigerant passages are Since at least one of the refrigerant flow paths can be opened or closed to control the refrigerant flow rate, it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from being pulled to any one of the evaporators 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 FIG. 3 is 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 time according to case 1 shown in [Table 1] Control can be applied.

In addition, 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, Time control can be applied.

5 is a system diagram showing a configuration of a refrigeration cycle of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a refrigerator according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

5 and 6, the refrigerator 10 according to the third embodiment of the present invention includes a refrigerant pipe 100 for guiding the flow of the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 120, and the refrigerant pipe 100. A flow control unit 130 installed in the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 to branch the refrigerant and a plurality of refrigerant passages extending from the outlet side of the flow control unit 130 to the first and second evaporators 150 and 160 (201,203) are 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 passage 203 connected to) is included.

In the plurality of refrigerant passages 201 and 203, a plurality of expansion devices 241 and 243 are disposed. The plurality of expansion devices 241 and 243 includes a capillary tube. 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 is controlled so that the refrigerant can flow into the first and second refrigerant passages 201 and 203 at the same time.

The refrigerator 10 includes flow rate controllers 251 and 253 for controlling the flow of the 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 flow channel 201 and a second flow rate control unit 253 installed in the second refrigerant flow channel 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. 5, 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. 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. On the other hand, when 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.

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. 5, the first and second flow rate control units 251 and 253 are respectively provided in 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 unit.

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 decreased, 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 control units 251 and 253 described in FIG. 5 may be provided in 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 FIG. 3 is used. However, the control state of the first and second flow control units 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] Time control according to Case 1 described in 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 controllers 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] Time control according to case 2 described in may be applied. As an example, the opening degree of the second flow rate control unit 253 may be controlled to be greater than the opening degree of the first flow rate control unit 251.

10: refrigerator 101: first refrigerant flow path
103: second refrigerant passage 105: third refrigerant passage
107: fourth refrigerant flow path 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: refrigerator compartment temperature sensor
220: freezer temperature sensor 230: external temperature sensor
240: timer 250: memory unit
251,253: first and second flow control units

Claims (25)

A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method of controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation channels and a control unit for controlling the flow control unit,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The control unit controls at least one of the first and second set times based on a table including an external temperature condition, and the external temperature condition has three or more sections divided based on two or more reference temperature values. ,
The control unit is characterized in that, when the external temperature is switched from the low external temperature section to the high external temperature section among the three or more sections, at least one of the first setting time and the second setting time is mapped to increase. How to control the refrigerator. The method of claim 1,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment. The method of claim 1,
The control method of a refrigerator, characterized in that as the external temperature increases, the first set time is mapped to increase. The method of claim 1,
And the second set time is mapped to increase as the external temperature increases. The method of claim 1,
The control method of a refrigerator, characterized in that as the external temperature increases, the first set time and the second set time are mapped to increase. A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method for controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation flow paths,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The first set time and the second set time are mapped according to the external temperature and operation information of the storage room,
The first set time or the second set time is mapped to a highest value when an external temperature is greater than or equal to a set value and at least one of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment is operated in response to a load. Way. The method of claim 6,
During load-responsive operation of the first storage room, the first set time is mapped to the highest value,
The control method of a refrigerator in which the second set time is mapped to a highest value when the second storage room is operated in response to a load. The method of claim 7,
The control method of a refrigerator in which the first set time during the load response operation of the first storage compartment and the second set time during the load response operation of the second storage compartment are mapped to the same value. The method of claim 6,
The operation information of the storage compartment includes a storage compartment condition condition. The method of claim 6,
The operation information of the storage room,
Information on the cold start operation in which the compressor has started;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the first storage chamber has risen by more than a set temperature;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the second storage room has risen by more than a set temperature, and
Among the information on the simultaneous cooling operation of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment,
A method of controlling a refrigerator including at least one piece of information. The method of claim 6,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment. A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method for controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation flow paths,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The first set time and the second set time are mapped according to the external temperature and operation information of the storage room,
And the second set time is mapped to a highest value when an external temperature is equal to or greater than a set value and when the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are simultaneously cooled. The method of claim 12,
The operation information of the storage compartment includes a storage compartment condition condition. The method of claim 12,
The operation information of the storage room,
Information on the cold start operation in which the compressor has started;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the first storage chamber has risen by more than a set temperature;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the second storage room has risen by more than a set temperature, and
Among the information on the simultaneous cooling operation of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment,
A method of controlling a refrigerator including at least one piece of information. The method of claim 12,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment. A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method for controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation flow paths,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The first set time and the second set time are mapped according to the external temperature and operation information of the storage room,
And the first set time is mapped to a lowest value when an external temperature is less than or equal to a set value and during simultaneous cooling operation of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment. The method of claim 16,
The operation information of the storage compartment includes a storage compartment condition condition. The method of claim 16,
The operation information of the storage room,
Information on the cold start operation in which the compressor has started;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the first storage chamber has risen by more than a set temperature;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the second storage room has risen by more than a set temperature, and
Among the information on the simultaneous cooling operation of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment,
A method of controlling a refrigerator including at least one piece of information. The method of claim 16,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment. A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method of controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation channels and a control unit for controlling the flow control unit,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The control unit controls at least one of the first and second set times based on a table including an external temperature condition, and the external temperature condition has three or more sections divided based on two or more reference temperature values. ,
The control unit is characterized in that, when the external temperature is switched from the low external temperature section to the high external temperature section among the three or more sections, a difference value between the first setting time and the second setting time is maintained or increased. How to control the refrigerator. The method of claim 20,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment. A first evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the first evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the first evaporator;
A second evaporation passage provided at an inlet side of the second evaporator to guide the inflow of refrigerant into the second evaporator; And
In the method for controlling a refrigerator comprising a flow control unit having an outlet port connected to the first and second evaporation flow paths,
Starting a compressor and supplying refrigerant to the first evaporator and the second evaporator to supply cool air to the first and second storage chambers;
Performing a first control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation channel is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation channel for a first set time; And
Performing a second control of the flow control unit so that the amount of refrigerant supplied to the second evaporator through the second evaporation flow channel for a second set time is greater than the amount of refrigerant supplied to the first evaporator through the first evaporation flow channel. Includes,
The first set time and the second set time are mapped according to the external temperature and operation information of the storage room,
The control method of a refrigerator, wherein a first set time in the load response operation of the first storage compartment is greater than a second set time in the load response operation of the second storage compartment, and a second set time in the load response operation of the second storage compartment is greater than a first set time. The method of claim 22,
The operation information of the storage compartment includes a storage compartment condition condition. The method of claim 22,
The operation information of the storage room,
Information on the cold start operation in which the compressor has started;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the first storage chamber has risen by more than a set temperature;
Information on load-responsive operation in which the temperature of the second storage room has risen by more than a set temperature, and
Among the information on the simultaneous cooling operation of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment,
A method of controlling a refrigerator including at least one piece of information. The method of claim 22,
One of the first and second storage compartments includes a refrigerating compartment and the other includes a freezing compartment.

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