WO2021225308A1 - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an evaporator for performing heat exchange; a defrost heater operated to remove frost formed on the evaporator; a temperature sensor for sensing ambient temperature around the evaporator; and a control part for controlling the defrost heater, wherein the control part performs a control operation to: perform a defrost operation mode in a case of reaching a defrost operation starting time point; perform, according to the defrost operation mode, a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on or off; and reperform the continuous operation mode after performing the pulse operation mode. Accordingly, the present invention can enhance a defrosting efficiency and reduce power consumption.

Description

Refrigerator

The present invention relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator capable of improving defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

The refrigerator uses a compressor and an evaporator to lower the temperature in the refrigerator to operate for long-term storage of food in the refrigerator. For example, a freezer compartment in a refrigerator maintains a temperature of approximately -18°C.

Meanwhile, during the operation of the evaporator of the refrigerator, frost may form on the evaporator, and in order to improve the performance of the refrigerator, it is preferable to remove the frost.

On the other hand, according to Korean Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2001-0026176 (hereinafter referred to as Prior Document 1), it relates to a method for controlling a defrost heater of a refrigerator, and when an arbitrary time for defrosting is reached, the defrost heater is turned on. and turning off the defrost heater after a certain period of time has elapsed.

However, according to Prior Document 1, since the on time and the off time of the defrost heater are based on an arbitrary time or a predetermined time, the defrosting according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator cannot be performed. That is, when the amount of frost is large, defrosting is not performed properly, or when the amount of frost is small, unnecessary defrosting is performed, so there is a disadvantage in that unnecessary power consumption is consumed.

On the other hand, US Patent Publication No. 6694754 (hereinafter referred to as Prior Document 2) relates to a refrigerator having a pulse-based defrost heater, and discloses that the on or off time of the defrost heater is determined based on time.

According to Prior Document 2, since the on time and the off time of the defrost heater are determined based on time, the defrosting according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator cannot be performed. That is, when the amount of frost is large, defrosting is not performed properly, or when the amount of frost is small, unnecessary defrosting is performed, so there is a disadvantage in that unnecessary power consumption is consumed.

Meanwhile, Korean Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2016-0053502 (hereinafter referred to as Prior Document 3) relates to a defrosting device, a refrigerator having the same, and a control method of the defrosting device, wherein the on or off time of the defrost heater is or determined based on time and temperature.

According to Prior Document 3, since the on time and the off time of the defrost heater are determined based on time or time and temperature, defrosting according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator cannot be performed. That is, when the amount of frost is large, defrosting is not performed properly, or when the amount of frost is small, unnecessary defrosting is performed, so there is a disadvantage in that unnecessary power consumption is consumed.

An object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of improving defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator capable of performing a continuous operation mode again after a pulse operation mode of a defrost heater.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, a temperature sensor that detects a temperature around the evaporator, and a defrost heater a control unit for controlling It controls to perform a pulse operation mode that repeats on and off, and controls so that the continuous operation mode is performed again after the pulse operation mode is performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when a condition for returning to the continuous operation mode of the defrost heater is reached while the pulse operation mode is performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the value related to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the reference value while the pulse operation mode is being performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or less than the reference temperature while the pulse operation mode is being performed.

Meanwhile, when the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor during the pulse operation mode is less than or equal to the reference temperature change rate, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed.

Meanwhile, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the target temperature within a predetermined time while performing the pulse operation mode, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the on-times of the defrost heaters is equal to or greater than the reference level while the pulse operation mode is being performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the number of times of turning on the defrost heater during the pulse operation mode is equal to or greater than the reference number.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the on times of the defrost heaters during the pulse operation mode is greater than the sum of the continuous on times of the defrost heaters in the continuous operation mode.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the door open period is greater than or equal to the allowable period while the pulse operation mode is being performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the humidity in the refrigerator is equal to or greater than the reference humidity during the pulse operation mode.

On the other hand, when the general cooling operation mode is performed and the defrosting operation start time is reached, the control unit controls the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost to be performed, and the heater operation mode Accordingly, it is possible to control to perform a continuous operation mode of the defrost heater and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on and off.

On the other hand, the control unit controls the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, and when the rate of change of the ambient temperature of the evaporator detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first reference value in the on state of the defrost heater, the pulse operation mode is entered Thus, the defrost heater is controlled to be turned off, and when the rate of change of the temperature around the evaporator is less than or equal to a second reference value smaller than the first reference value in a state in which the defrost heater is turned off during the pulse operation mode, the defrost heater can be controlled to be turned on.

On the other hand, the control unit controls the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, and according to the pulse operation mode, the temperature change rate around the evaporator is between the first reference value and the second reference value. Off can be repeated.

Meanwhile, as the number of times the cooling chamber door is opened increases, the controller may control the period of performing the defrost operation mode to be shorter.

On the other hand, the control unit, in the defrosting operation mode, the peak temperature of the evaporator when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode in the defrosting operation mode than when the peak temperature of the evaporator is reached when the defrost heater is continuously turned on You can control this later.

On the other hand, in the defrost operation mode, the control unit, in the defrost operation mode, the continuous operation mode and It is possible to control the size of the second section region related to the temperature versus time between the phase change temperature and the defrost end temperature in the case of performing the pulse operation mode to be larger.

On the other hand, the control unit, in the defrost operation mode, in the defrost operation mode, in the defrost operation mode, in the case of performing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode, than the effective defrost in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater can be controlled to be greater. .

On the other hand, in the defrost operation mode, the control unit controls the heater off time in the case of performing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode in the defrosting operation mode to be later than the heater off time in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater. can

On the other hand, when the start point of the defrost operation is reached, the control unit controls the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost to be performed, and according to the heater operation mode, the defrost heater is continuously turned on. When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature within the first period during the continuous operation mode being performed, the defrost heater is controlled to perform a pulse operation mode that repeats on and off, and during continuous operation mode execution , when the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is continuously performed.

A refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, a temperature sensor that detects a temperature around the evaporator, and a defrost a control unit for controlling the heater, wherein the control unit controls the defrost operation mode to be performed when the defrost operation start time is reached, and according to the defrost operation mode, a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, and It controls to perform the pulse operation mode that repeats on and off, and controls so that the continuous operation mode is performed again when the return condition to the continuous operation mode of the defrost heater is reached when the pulse operation mode is performed.

A refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, and a temperature sensor that detects a temperature around the evaporator; and a control unit for controlling the defrost heater, wherein the control unit controls to perform a defrost operation mode including a cooling mode before defrost, a heater operation mode, and a cooling mode after defrosting when a defrosting operation start time is reached, and the heater operation mode Accordingly, during continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, within a first period, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature, the defrost heater performs a pulse operation mode in which on and off are repeated. and, while the continuous operation mode is being performed, when the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to a second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is continuously performed.

On the other hand, the control unit, during the continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature after reaching the first temperature between the first period and the second period, After the defrost heater is turned off, the pulse operation mode may be controlled to be performed.

On the other hand, the control unit, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the off period of the defrost heater before performing the pulse operation mode is the temperature The temperature sensed by the sensor may be controlled to be greater than the defrost heater off period before the pulse operation mode when the first temperature is reached within the first period.

On the other hand, during continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the pulse operation mode is performed after the defrost heater is turned off. can be controlled

On the other hand, the control unit, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the off period of the defrost heater before the pulse operation mode is performed is the temperature detected by the temperature sensor In the case of reaching the first temperature within the first period, it may be controlled to be greater than the defrost heater off period before the pulse operation mode is performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the start time of the pulse operation mode to be delayed as the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is smaller while the continuous operation mode is being performed.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode execution period to increase as the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor decreases while the continuous operation mode is being performed.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, a temperature sensor that detects a temperature around the evaporator, and a controller that controls the defrost heater and the control unit controls the defrost operation mode to be performed when the defrost operation start time is reached, and according to the defrost operation mode, a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, and a pulse in which the defrost heater repeats on and off The operation mode is controlled to be performed, and after the pulse operation mode is performed, the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed again. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption. In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when a condition for returning to the continuous operation mode of the defrost heater is reached while the pulse operation mode is performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the value related to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the reference value while the pulse operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or less than the reference temperature while the pulse operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, when the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor during the pulse operation mode is less than or equal to the reference temperature change rate, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the target temperature within a predetermined time while performing the pulse operation mode, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the on-times of the defrost heaters is equal to or greater than the reference level while the pulse operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the number of times of turning on the defrost heater during the pulse operation mode is equal to or greater than the reference number. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the sum of the on times of the defrost heaters during the pulse operation mode is greater than the sum of the continuous on times of the defrost heaters in the continuous operation mode. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the door open period is greater than or equal to the allowable period while the pulse operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode to be performed when the humidity in the refrigerator is equal to or greater than the reference humidity during the pulse operation mode. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the general cooling operation mode is performed and the defrosting operation start time is reached, the control unit controls the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost to be performed, and the heater operation mode Accordingly, it is possible to control to perform a continuous operation mode of the defrost heater and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on and off. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit controls the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, and when the rate of change of the ambient temperature of the evaporator detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or greater than the first reference value in the on state of the defrost heater, the pulse operation mode is entered Thus, the defrost heater is controlled to be turned off, and when the rate of change of the temperature around the evaporator is less than or equal to a second reference value smaller than the first reference value in a state in which the defrost heater is turned off during the pulse operation mode, the defrost heater can be controlled to be turned on. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may turn off the defrost heater according to the heater pulse operation termination condition. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit controls the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, and according to the pulse operation mode, the temperature change rate around the evaporator is between the first reference value and the second reference value. Off can be repeated. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is a predetermined temperature, the controller may control the pulse operation mode to be performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is a predetermined temperature and the continuous operation mode execution period is greater than or equal to a predetermined period, the controller may control the pulse operation mode to be performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the pulse operation mode to be performed when the continuous operation mode execution period is a predetermined period or more. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the pulse operation mode to be performed according to a temperature change rate of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the heater to be driven with a power that is inversely proportional to a temperature change rate of the temperature sensed by the sensor during the pulse operation mode. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, as the number of times the cooling chamber door is opened increases, the controller may control the period of performing the defrost operation mode to be shorter. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit, in the defrosting operation mode, the peak temperature of the evaporator when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode in the defrosting operation mode than when the peak temperature of the evaporator is reached when the defrost heater is continuously turned on You can control this later. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, in the defrost operation mode, the control unit, in the defrost operation mode, the continuous operation mode and It is possible to control the size of the second section region related to the temperature versus time between the phase change temperature and the defrost end temperature in the case of performing the pulse operation mode to be larger. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit, in the defrost operation mode, in the defrost operation mode, in the defrost operation mode, in the case of performing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode, than the effective defrost in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater can be controlled to be greater. . Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, in the defrost operation mode, the control unit controls the heater off time in the case of performing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode in the defrosting operation mode to be later than the heater off time in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater. can Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, when the start point of the defrost operation is reached, the control unit controls the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost to be performed, and according to the heater operation mode, the defrost heater is continuously turned on. When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature within the first period during the continuous operation mode being performed, the defrost heater is controlled to perform a pulse operation mode that repeats on and off, and during continuous operation mode execution , when the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is continuously performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

A refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, a temperature sensor that detects a temperature around the evaporator, and a controller that controls the defrost heater. Including, the control unit controls the defrost operation mode to be performed when the defrost operation start time is reached, and according to the defrost operation mode, a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, and the defrost heater repeats on and off The pulse operation mode is controlled to be executed, and when the return condition of the defrost heater to the continuous operation mode is reached when the pulse operation mode is performed, the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed again. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption. In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

A refrigerator according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an evaporator that performs heat exchange, a defrost heater that operates to remove frost on the evaporator, a temperature sensor that senses a temperature around the evaporator, and a controller that controls the defrost heater Including, the control unit, when the defrost operation start time is reached, controls the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after defrost to be performed, depending on the heater operation mode, the defrost heater When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature within the first period during the continuous operation mode that is continuously turned on, the defrost heater is controlled to perform a pulse operation mode that repeats on and off, and the continuous operation mode During execution, if the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to the second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is controlled to continue to be performed.

Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption. In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit, during the continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature after reaching the first temperature between the first period and the second period, After the defrost heater is turned off, the pulse operation mode may be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the off period of the defrost heater before performing the pulse operation mode is the temperature The temperature sensed by the sensor may be controlled to be greater than the off period of the defrost heater before the pulse operation mode is performed when the first temperature is reached within the first period. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, during continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the pulse operation mode is performed after the defrost heater is turned off. can be controlled Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature between the first period and the second period, the off period of the defrost heater before the pulse operation mode is performed is the temperature detected by the temperature sensor In the case of reaching the first temperature within the first period, it may be controlled to be greater than the defrost heater off period before the pulse operation mode is performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the start time of the pulse operation mode to be delayed as the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is smaller while the continuous operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller may control the continuous operation mode execution period to increase as the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor decreases while the continuous operation mode is being performed. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an open door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 .

4 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the inside of the refrigerator shown in FIG. 1 .

5A is a perspective view illustrating an example of an evaporator according to the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a diagram referred to in the description of FIG. 5A.

6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

7A to 13 are diagrams referenced in the description of FIG. 6 .

14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a defrost heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

15A to 15C are diagrams referred to in the description of FIG. 14 .

16 is a flowchart illustrating a defrosting method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

17A to 17C are diagrams referred to in the description of FIG. 16 .

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

The suffixes "module" and "part" for the components used in the following description are given simply in consideration of the ease of writing the present specification, and do not give a particularly important meaning or role by themselves. Accordingly, the terms “module” and “unit” may be used interchangeably.

1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings, the refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, although not shown, includes a case 110 having an internal space divided into a freezing compartment and a refrigerating compartment, and a freezing compartment door 120 for shielding the freezing compartment. and the refrigerating compartment door 140 for shielding the refrigerating compartment, a schematic appearance is formed.

In addition, a door handle 121 protruding forward is further provided on the front surfaces of the freezing compartment door 120 and the refrigerating compartment door 140 , so that the user can easily grip the freezer compartment door 120 and the refrigerating compartment door 140 and rotate the freezer compartment door 120 and the refrigerating compartment door 140 . make it possible

On the other hand, the front of the refrigerating compartment door 140 may be further provided with a home bar 180 , which is a convenient means for allowing the user to take out stored items such as beverages accommodated therein without opening the refrigerating compartment door 140 .

In addition, a dispenser 160, which is a convenient means for allowing a user to easily take out ice or drinking water without opening the freezer door 120, may be provided on the front of the freezer door 120, and the dispenser 160 A control panel 210 that controls the driving operation of the refrigerator 100 and displays the state of the refrigerator 100 in operation on the screen may be further provided on the upper side of the .

Meanwhile, in the drawings, the dispenser 160 is illustrated as being disposed on the front side of the freezer compartment door 120 , but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be disposed on the front side of the refrigerating compartment door 140 .

The control panel 210 may include an input unit 220 including a plurality of buttons, and a display unit 230 for displaying a control screen and an operating state.

The display unit 230 displays information such as a control screen, an operating state, and an internal temperature. For example, the display unit 230 may display a set temperature of the freezing compartment and a set temperature of the refrigerating compartment.

The display unit 230 may be implemented in various ways, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), and the like. Also, the display unit 230 may be implemented as a touch screen capable of performing the function of the input unit 220 .

The input unit 220 may include a plurality of operation buttons. For example, the input unit 220 may include a freezing compartment temperature setting button (not shown) for setting the freezing compartment temperature, a refrigerating compartment temperature setting button (not shown) for setting the freezing compartment temperature, and the like. Meanwhile, the input unit 220 may also be implemented as a touch screen capable of performing the function of the display unit 230 .

On the other hand, the refrigerator according to the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the double door type shown in the drawings, but a one door type, a sliding door type, and a curtain door type. (Curtain Door Type), regardless of its shape.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an open door of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 .

Referring to the drawings, the freezing compartment 155 is disposed inside the freezing compartment door 120 , and the refrigerating compartment 157 is disposed inside the refrigerating compartment door 140 .

FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the refrigerator of FIG. 1 .

Referring to the drawings, the refrigerator 100 includes a compressor 112, a condenser 116 condensing the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 112, and receiving and evaporating the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 116, It may include a freezing chamber evaporator 122 disposed in a freezing chamber (not shown), and a freezing chamber expansion valve 132 for expanding the refrigerant supplied to the freezing chamber evaporator 122 .

Meanwhile, in the drawings, it is illustrated that one evaporator is used, but it is also possible to use each evaporator in the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment.

That is, the refrigerator 100 is a three-way valve for supplying the refrigerant condensed in the refrigerating compartment evaporator (not shown) and the condenser 116 disposed in the refrigerating compartment (not shown) to the refrigerating compartment evaporator (not shown) or the freezing compartment evaporator 122 . (not shown) and a refrigerating compartment expansion valve (not shown) for expanding the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerating compartment evaporator (not shown) may be further included.

In addition, the refrigerator 100 may further include a gas-liquid separator (not shown) in which the refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator 122 is separated into liquid and gas.

In addition, the refrigerator 100 further includes a refrigerator compartment fan (not shown) and a freezer compartment fan 144 that sucks cold air that has passed through the freezer compartment evaporator 122 and blows it into the refrigerating compartment (not shown) and the freezing compartment (not shown), respectively. can do.

In addition, it may further include a compressor driving unit 113 for driving the compressor 112 , a refrigerating compartment fan driving unit (not shown) and a freezing compartment fan driving unit 145 for driving the refrigerating compartment fan (not shown) and the freezing compartment fan 144 . have.

Meanwhile, according to the drawing, since the common evaporator 122 is used in the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment, in this case, a damper (not shown) may be installed between the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment, and the fan (not shown) is one evaporator. It is possible to forcibly blow the cold air generated in the refrigerator to be supplied to the freezing and refrigerating chambers.

4 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the inside of the refrigerator shown in FIG. 1 .

Referring to the drawings, the refrigerator of FIG. 4 includes a compressor 112 , a machine room fan 115 , a freezer compartment fan 144 , a controller 310 , a heater 330 , a temperature sensor 320 , and a memory 240 . , including an evaporator 122 .

In addition, the refrigerator may further include a compressor driving unit 113 , a machine room fan driving unit 117 , a freezing compartment fan driving unit 145 , a heater driving unit 332 , a display unit 230 , and an input unit 220 .

The compressor 112 , the machine room fan 115 , and the freezer compartment fan 144 are described with reference to FIG. 2 .

The input unit 220 is provided with a plurality of operation buttons, and transmits the input signal for the set temperature of the freezing compartment or the set temperature of the refrigerating compartment to the control unit 310 .

The display unit 230 may display the operating state of the refrigerator. Meanwhile, the display unit 230 is operable under the control of a display controller (not shown).

The memory 240 may store data necessary for the operation of the refrigerator.

For example, the memory 240 may store power consumption information for each of a plurality of power consumption units. In addition, the memory 240 may output corresponding power consumption information to the controller 310 according to whether each power consumption unit in the refrigerator is operating.

The temperature sensor 320 senses a temperature in the refrigerator and transmits a signal for the sensed temperature to the controller 310 . Here, the temperature sensor 320 senses the refrigerating compartment temperature and the freezing compartment temperature, respectively. In addition, the temperature of each compartment in the refrigerating compartment or each compartment in the freezing compartment may be sensed.

The controller 310 controls the on/off operation of the compressor 112 , the fan 115 or 144 , and the heater 330 , as shown in the drawing, the compressor driving unit 113 , the fan driving unit 117 or 145 , the heater driving unit 332 may be controlled to finally control the compressor 112 , the fan 115 or 144 , and the heater 330 . Here, the fan driving unit may be the machine room fan driving unit 117 or the freezing compartment fan driving unit 145 .

For example, the control unit 310 may output a corresponding speed command value signal to the compressor driving unit 113 or the fan driving unit 117 or 145 , respectively.

The above-described compressor driving unit 113 and freezing compartment fan driving unit 145 includes a motor for a compressor (not shown) and a motor for a freezer compartment fan (not shown), respectively, and each motor (not shown) is the control unit 310 . It can be operated at a target rotation speed according to the control.

Meanwhile, the machine room fan driving unit 117 includes a machine room fan motor (not shown), and the machine room fan motor (not shown) may be operated at a target rotation speed under the control of the controller 310 .

When such a motor is a three-phase motor, it may be controlled by a switching operation in an inverter (not shown) or may be controlled at a constant speed using an AC power source as it is. Here, each motor (not shown) may be any one of an induction motor, a blush less DC (BLDC) motor, or a synchronous reluctance motor (synRM) motor.

Meanwhile, as described above, the controller 310 may control the overall operation of the refrigerator 100 in addition to the operation control of the compressor 112 and the fan 115 or 144 .

For example, as described above, the controller 310 may control the overall operation of the refrigerant cycle according to the set temperature from the input unit 220 . For example, in addition to the compressor driving unit 113 , the refrigerating compartment fan driving unit 143 , and the freezing compartment fan driving unit 145 , a three-way valve (not shown), a refrigerating compartment expansion valve (not shown), and a freezer compartment expansion valve 132 are further added. can be controlled In addition, the operation of the condenser 116 may be controlled. Also, the control unit 310 may control the operation of the display unit 230 .

Meanwhile, the cold air heat-exchanged in the evaporator 122 may be supplied to the freezing chamber or the refrigerating chamber by a fan or a damper (not shown).

Meanwhile, the heater 330 may be a freezer compartment defrost heater. For example, when only one freezer compartment evaporator 122 is used in the refrigerator 100 , the freezer compartment defrost heater 330 may operate to remove frost attached to the freezer compartment evaporator 122 . To this end, the heater driving unit 332 may control the operation of the heater 330 . Meanwhile, the control unit 310 may control the heater driving unit 332 .

Meanwhile, the heater 330 may include a freezer compartment defrost heater and a refrigerating compartment defrost heater. For example, when the freezer compartment evaporator 122 and the refrigerating compartment evaporator (not shown) are used in the refrigerator 100, respectively, in order to remove the frost attached to the freezer compartment evaporator 122, the freezer compartment defrost heater 330 operates and , In order to remove the frost adhering to the refrigerating compartment evaporator, a refrigerating compartment defrosting heater (not shown) may operate. To this end, the heater driving unit 332 may control the operations of the freezer compartment defrost heater 330 and the refrigerating compartment defrost heater.

5A is a perspective view illustrating an example of an evaporator related to the present invention, and FIG. 5B is a view referred to in the description of FIG. 5A.

First, referring to FIG. 5A , the evaporator 122 in the refrigerator 100 may be a freezer compartment evaporator as described in FIG. 2 .

A sensor mounter 400 including a temperature sensor 320 may be attached to the evaporator 122 in the refrigerator 100 .

In the drawing, it is exemplified that a sensor mounter 400 is attached to an upper cooling tube of the evaporator 122 in the refrigerator 100 .

The evaporator 122 includes a cooling pipe 131 (a cooling pipe) extending from one side of the accumulator 134 , and a support 133 for supporting the cooling pipe 131 .

The cooling tube 131 is repeatedly bent in a zigzag shape to form multiple rows, and a refrigerant may be filled therein.

Meanwhile, in the vicinity of the cooling pipe 131 of the evaporator 122 , a defrosting heater 330 for defrosting may be disposed.

In the drawing, it is exemplified that the defrost heater 330 is disposed in the vicinity of the cooling pipe 131 in the lower region of the evaporator 122 .

For example, since the frost (ICE) is generated from the lower region of the evaporator 122 and grows in the upper region direction, in the vicinity of the cooling pipe 131 in the lower region of the evaporator 122, the defrost heater 330 is It may be desirable to place

Accordingly, as shown in the drawing, the defrost heater 330 may be disposed in a form surrounding the cooling pipe 131 of the lower region of the evaporator 122 .

On the other hand, Figure 5b illustrates that the frost (ICE) is attached to the evaporator (122).

In the figure, the central portion of the evaporator 122, and the lower portion illustrates that the frost (ICE) is attached.

In particular, in the figure, frost (ICE) is formed on the defrost heater 330 to illustrate that the defrost heater 330 is covered.

On the other hand, when the defrost heater 330 operates, the frost (ICE) is removed from the lower region of the evaporator 122, and may be gradually removed in the direction of the central region.

Meanwhile, in the present invention, a method for improving the efficiency of defrosting and power consumption when removing ICE, that is, during defrosting, is proposed. This will be described below with reference to FIG. 6 .

6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention determines whether it is a defrosting operation start time for defrosting (S610).

For example, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may determine whether a defrosting operation start time is reached while performing the normal cooling operation mode Pga.

The defrost operation start time may vary according to the defrost cycle.

For example, when the number of times that the door of the cooling chamber (refrigeration chamber or freezing chamber) is opened increases, the amount of cold air supplied in the general cooling operation mode increases, and accordingly, the rate at which frost is formed on the evaporator 122 increases. be able to

Accordingly, when the number of times the door of the cooling chamber (refrigeration chamber or freezing chamber) is opened increases, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrosting period to be shortened.

That is, when the number of times that the door of the cooling chamber (refrigeration chamber or freezing chamber) is opened increases, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrosting operation start time to be shortened.

On the other hand, when a defrosting operation start condition is satisfied, for example, when a defrosting operation start time is reached, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 ends the general cooling operation mode, and the defrost operation mode Pdf is changed. control to be performed, and the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be continuously turned on according to the heater operation mode PddT in the defrost operation mode Pdf ( S615 ).

Next, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control to perform a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater 330 is repeatedly turned on and off by a heater pulse after the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on. (S620).

For example, when the defrost operation start condition is satisfied, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may include a cooling mode before defrosting (Pbd), a heater operation mode (PddT), and a cooling mode after defrosting (pbf). The driving mode Pdf may be controlled to be performed.

And, according to the heater operation mode (PddT), according to the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), the continuous operation mode (Pona) in which the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and a pulse in which the defrost heater 330 is repeatedly turned on and off. It can be controlled to perform a driving mode (Ponb).

Meanwhile, the control unit 310 controls the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode (Pona), and in the on state of the defrost heater 330, the evaporator ( 122) When the change rate of the ambient temperature is equal to or greater than the first reference value ref1, the pulse operation mode Ponb may be entered, and the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be turned off. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrost heater 330 to be turned on or off according to a change rate of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 when the pulse operation mode Ponb is performed. .

For example, when the control unit 310 of the refrigerator 100 performs the pulse operation mode Ponb, when the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is equal to or greater than the first reference value ref1, the defrost heater 330 ) is controlled to be off, and when the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is less than or equal to the second reference value ref2 smaller than the first reference value ref1, the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be turned on. Accordingly, since defrosting can be performed based on the temperature change rate ΔT, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

Next, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 determines whether the pulse operation mode is terminated (S630), and, if applicable, turns off the defrost heater 330 (S640).

For example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be a time at which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 falls below the phase change temperature Trf1 .

As another example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be the end time of the defrosting operation or the end time of the heater operation mode.

As such, according to the change rate of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320, a continuous operation mode (Pona) in which the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater 330 repeats on and off ( By controlling to perform Ponb), it is possible to perform defrosting based on the temperature change rate ΔT, so that it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator 122, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

7A to 13 are diagrams referenced in the description of FIG. 6 .

First, FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating a defrost heater HT and a switching element RL for driving a defrost heater when one evaporator and one defrost heater are used in the refrigerator 100 .

Referring to the drawings, when only one freezer compartment evaporator 122 is used in the refrigerator 100 , the freezer compartment defrost heater HT may operate to remove frost attached to the freezer compartment evaporator 122 .

To this end, the switching element RL in the heater driver 332 may control the operation of the defrost heater HT. In this case, the switching element RL may be a relay element.

That is, when the switching element RL is continuously turned on, the continuous operation mode Pona in which the defrost heater HT is continuously turned on is performed, and when the switching element RL is switched on and off, the defrost heater ( A pulse operation mode (Ponb) in which HT) repeats on and off may be performed.

Next, FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating the defrost heaters HTa and HTb and the switching elements RLa and Rlb for driving the defrost heater when two evaporators and two defrost heaters are used in the refrigerator 100 .

When the first defrost heater HTa is a freezer compartment defrost heater, the first switching element RLa in the heater driving unit 332 may control the operation of the first defrost heater HTa. In this case, the first switching element RLa may be a relay element.

That is, when the first switching element RLa is continuously turned on, the continuous operation mode Pona in which the first defrost heater HTa is continuously turned on is performed, and the first switching element RLa performs on and off switching. In this case, the pulse operation mode Ponb in which the first defrost heater HTa repeats on and off may be performed.

When the second defrost heater HTb is a refrigerator compartment defrost heater, the second switching element RLb in the heater driving unit 332 may control the operation of the second defrost heater HTb. In this case, the second switching element RLb may be a relay element.

That is, when the second switching element RLb is continuously turned on, the continuous operation mode Ponb in which the second defrost heater HTb is continuously turned on is performed, and the second switching element RLb performs on and off switching. In this case, the pulse operation mode Ponb in which the second defrost heater HTb repeats on and off may be performed.

Meanwhile, on and off timings of the first switching element RLa and the second switching element RLb may be different from each other. Accordingly, it is possible to perform the defrosting of the freezing compartment evaporator and the defrosting of the refrigerating compartment evaporator, respectively.

8A is a diagram illustrating an example of a pulse waveform indicating the operation of one defrost heater of FIG. 7A.

Referring to the drawings, a horizontal axis of the pulse waveform Psh may indicate time, and a vertical axis may indicate a level.

The controller 310 of the refrigerator 100, while performing the general cooling operation mode Pga, when the defrosting cloud start start time To is reached, ends the general cooling operation mode Pga, and the defrost operation mode Pdf ) can be controlled to be performed.

The defrost operation mode (Pdf) may include a cooling mode before defrosting (Pbd) between Toa and Ta, a heater operation mode (PddT) between Ta and Td, and a cooling mode after defrosting (pbf) between Td and Te. .

On the other hand, after the defrost operation mode (Pdf) is terminated, the normal cooling operation mode (Pgb) is performed again.

The defrost heater 330 is turned off in the general cooling operation mode (Pga) and the general cooling operation mode (Pgb).

Meanwhile, the defrost heater 330 may be turned off in the pre-defrost cooling mode Pbd and the post-defrost cooling mode pbf among the defrost operation mode Pdf.

On the other hand, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on in the continuous operation mode (Pona) in the heater operation mode (PddT), and repeats on and off in the pulse operation mode (Ponb) in the heater operation mode (PddT). have.

The continuous operation mode Pona may be performed between Ta and Tb, and the pulse operation mode Ponb may be performed between Tb and Tc.

When only the continuous operation mode is performed and the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, when the amount of frost is large, the defrost is not performed properly or when the amount of frost is small, unnecessary defrost is performed, so unnecessary power consumption is consumed There is a downside to being

Accordingly, in the present invention, the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are mixed and used. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating an example of a pulse waveform indicating the operation of two defrost heaters of FIG. 7B .

Referring to the drawings, (a) of FIG. 8B shows a pulse waveform Psha indicating the operation of the freezer compartment defrost heater, and FIG. 8B (b) shows a pulse waveform Pshb indicating the operation of the refrigerator compartment defrost heater. can

The pulse waveform Psha of FIG. 8B (a) may be the same as the pulse waveform Psh of FIG. 8A .

Meanwhile, since less frost may occur in the refrigerating compartment evaporator than in the freezing compartment evaporator, the operating section of the refrigerating compartment defrost heater may be smaller than the operating section of the freezing compartment defrosting heater.

Looking at the pulse waveform Pshb of FIG. 8B (b), the period of continuously turning on in the continuous operation mode (Pona) in the heater operation mode (PddT) is the period of the pulse waveform (Psha) of FIG. 8B (a) may be smaller than

In addition, looking at the pulse waveform Pshb of FIG. 8B (b), the on/off repetition period of the pulse operation mode Ponb in the heater operation mode PddT is the same as the pulse waveform Psha of FIG. 8B (a). may be less than the duration.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of cooling power supply and a defrosting heater operation in the defrosting operation mode Pdf of FIG. 8A .

Referring to the drawings, the defrost operation mode (Pdf) is a cooling mode before defrosting between To and Ta (Pbd), a heater operation mode between Ta and Td (PddT), and a cooling mode after defrosting between Td and Te (pbf) may include.

During the period To to T1 of the cooling mode Pbd before defrosting, the level of the supplied cooling power may be an R level, and during the period T1 to T2, the level of the cooling power may be an F level greater than the R level.

And, during the period T2 to T3 of the cooling mode Pbd before defrosting, the cooling power supply may be stopped.

In addition, during the period T3 to Ta in the cooling mode Pbd before defrosting, the level of the cooling power supplied may be the R level.

According to the cooling mode before defrost Pbd, cooling power supply for compensating for the stoppage of cooling power supply during the heater operation mode PddT is performed.

Meanwhile, the cooling power supply may be supplied by a compressor or a thermoelectric element, and in the drawings, the cooling power supply is exemplified by the operation of the compressor.

During the period To to T2 and T3 to Ta in which the cooling power is supplied, the compressor operates, and the compressor is turned off during the period T2 to T3 in which the cooling power is not supplied.

Meanwhile, during the period To to T1 in which the R level cooling power is supplied, the cooling compartment fan may be operated and the freezer compartment fan may be turned off.

Meanwhile, during the period T1, which is the time when F level cooling power is supplied, to the period Ta, which is the end time of the cooling mode Pbd before defrost, the cooling compartment fan is turned off and the freezer compartment fan may be operated.

Meanwhile, during the period T2 to Ta, the defrost heater 330 must be maintained in an off state.

Next, the defrost heater 330 may operate during the Ta to Tc period of the Ta to Td period of the heater operation mode PddT.

As shown in FIG. 8A , the continuous operation mode Pona may be performed during the Ta and Tb periods of the heater operation mode PddT period, and the heater operation mode PddT may be performed during the Tb and Tc periods.

Meanwhile, the defrost heater 330 may be turned off from Tc to Td, which is the end time of the continuous operation mode (Pona).

Meanwhile, during the period of the heater operation mode PddT, the compressor and the refrigerator fan may be turned off.

Meanwhile, during the period of the heater operation mode PddT, the freezer compartment fan may be turned off. In particular, it is preferable that the freezer fan is turned off from Tc to Td, which is the end time of the continuous operation mode (Pona).

After the heater operation mode (PddT), the cooling mode (pbf) after defrosting is performed.

During the period Td to T4 in the cooling mode pbf after defrosting, the level of the supplied cooling power may be the R+F level, and the largest level of cooling power may be supplied.

In addition, during the period T4 to T6 in the cooling mode pbf after defrosting, the level of the supplied cooling power may be the F level, and the cooling power supply may be stopped during the period T6 to Te.

According to the cooling mode pbf after defrosting, the cooling power supply of the greatest level may be performed according to the stopping of the cooling power supply during the heater operation mode PddT.

During the period Td to T6 in which the cooling power is supplied, the compressor operates, and the compressor is turned off during the period T6 to Te in which the cooling power is not supplied.

Meanwhile, during the period Td to T4 in which the R + F level of cooling power is supplied, the cooling compartment fan and the freezer compartment fan may be turned off together.

Meanwhile, during the period T4 to T6 in which the F-level cooling power is supplied, the cooling compartment fan is turned off, and the freezer compartment fan may be operated.

Meanwhile, the level of power consumption in the heater operation mode PddT in FIG. 9 may be greater than the level of power consumption of the cooling power of the R + F level.

10 is a diagram illustrating a temperature change waveform of the evaporator when the defrost heater is operated only in the continuous operation mode and when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode are mixed.

In particular, in FIG. 10 (a), CVa represents a temperature change waveform when the defrost heater is operated only in the continuous operation mode, and CVb is the temperature change when the defrost heater is operated by mixing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode. represents the waveform.

According to CVa, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and may be turned off at the time Tx, as shown in FIG. 10B .

According to CVb, the defrost heater 330 operates during the Pohm period, as shown in (c) of FIG. 10 .

That is, during the Ponm period including up to the Tpa time point, the continuous operation mode is performed, and the pulse operation mode is performed during the Pofn period from Tpa to Tpb.

Trf1 represents a phase change temperature, and may be, for example, 0°C. On the other hand, Trf2 represents the defrost end temperature, for example, may be 5 ℃.

Meanwhile, a region between Trf1 and Trf2 may indicate a defrosting region in which defrosting is actually performed, and a region exceeding Trf2 may indicate an overheated region in which excessive defrosting is performed.

In order to actually effectively perform the defrosting, it is preferable that the size of the overheating region is reduced and the size of the defrosting region is increased.

Accordingly, in the present invention, the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode of the defrost heater 300 are mixed in order to decrease the size of the overheating region and increase the size of the defrosting region.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf) than the peak temperature reaching time (Qc) of the evaporator 122 in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330, When the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed, the peak temperature arrival time (Qd) of the evaporator 122 may be controlled to be later. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrost operation mode (Pdf), in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330, the time between the phase change temperature (Trf1) and the defrost end temperature (Trf2) in relation to the temperature-related first Rather than the size of the section area (Arab), in the defrost operation mode (Pdf), the phase change temperature (Trf1) when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed between the defrost end temperature (Trf2) The size of the second section area Arbb in relation to time versus temperature may be controlled to be larger. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), rather than the effective defrost in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 only. (Ponb) can be controlled so that the effective defrost is larger. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), the continuous operation mode (Pona) than the heater off time (Tx) in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 only. It is possible to control the heater off time Tpb to be later in the case of performing the pulse operation mode Ponb. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 only, the heater off time (Tx) and the period between the peak temperature reaching time (Qc) of the evaporator 122 (Qc) In the defrost operation mode (Pdf) than (Tx-Qc), the heater off time (Tpb) and the peak temperature of the evaporator 122 when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed ( Qd) can be controlled so that the period Tpb-Qd is larger. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrost operation mode (Pdf), the defrost operation mode (Tx-Qg) than the period (Tx-Qg) for maintaining the phase change temperature (Trf1) or more in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 only In Pdf), the period Tpb-Qh for maintaining the phase change temperature Trf1 or more when the continuous operation mode Pona and the pulse operation mode Ponb are performed may be controlled to be larger. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), from the heater off time (Tx) in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 to the time of falling below the phase change temperature (Trf1) (Qg) between In the defrost operation mode (Pdf) than the period (Tx-Qg) of It is possible to control the period (Tpb-Qh) between the falling times to be smaller. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the defrost operation mode (Pdf), in the defrost operation mode (Pdf) than the overheating temperature region (Araa) above the defrost end temperature (Trf2) in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330 , it is possible to control the size of the overheating temperature region Arba higher than the defrost end temperature Trf2 when the continuous operation mode Pona and the pulse operation mode Ponb is performed to be smaller. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

10 (d) is a cooling power supply waveform (COa) in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330, and a cooling power supply waveform in the case of performing the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) ( COb) is illustrated.

Referring to the drawing, the control unit 310, in the defrosting operation mode (Pdf), in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater 330, the cooling power supply time (Tca) according to the general cooling operation mode (Pga), the defrost In the operation mode Pdf, the cooling power supply timing Tcb according to the general cooling operation mode Pga when the continuous operation mode Pona and the pulse operation mode Ponb are performed may be controlled to be later.

Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption when the continuous operation mode (Pona) and the pulse operation mode (Ponb) are performed.

11 is a diagram illustrating an operation method in a pulse operation mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the drawing, the controller 310 controls the defrost heater 330 to be turned on according to the heater operation mode, particularly, according to the continuous operation mode (S1115).

Next, the control unit 310 calculates the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 during the operation of the defrost heater 330, and determines whether the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature is equal to or greater than the first reference value (ref1). It is determined (S1120).

For example, when the rate of change ΔT of the temperature during continuous operation of the defrost heater 330 is less than the first reference value ref1 , the controller 310 may control the defrost heater 330 to continuously operate.

Meanwhile, when the rate of change ΔT of the temperature during continuous operation of the defrost heater 330 is equal to or greater than the first reference value ref1 , the controller 310 may temporarily turn off the defrost heater 330 ( S1125 ).

Next, the control unit 310 calculates the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 after the defrost heater 330 is temporarily turned off, and the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature is the second reference value (ref2) or less. It is determined whether or not (S1128).

Then, the controller 310 controls the defrost heater to be turned on when the rate of change ΔT of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is less than or equal to the second reference value ref2 after the defrost heater 330 is temporarily turned off. . That is, the control is performed so that step 1115 ( S1115 ) is performed.

As described above, when steps 1115 to 1128 are repeated, the pulse operation mode of the defrost heater 330 is performed.

On the other hand, in step 1128 ( S1128 ), after the temporary off of the defrost heater 330 , when the rate of change ΔT of the temperature exceeds the second reference value ref2 , the control unit 310 determines the pulse operation mode termination condition. It is determined whether or not it is satisfied (S1130). And, if applicable, the control unit 310 ends the pulse operation mode and controls the heater to be turned off (S1140).

The pulse operation mode end condition may correspond to the pulse operation mode time point.

For example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be a time at which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 falls below the phase change temperature Trf1 .

As another example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be the end time of the defrosting operation or the end time of the heater operation mode.

On the other hand, the controller 310 controls the defrost operation mode Pdf to be performed when the defrost operation start time To is reached, and according to the defrost operation mode Pdf, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on. The continuous operation mode (Pona) and the defrost heater 330 are controlled to perform a pulse operation mode (Ponb) that repeats on and off, and when the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is performed, the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 Controlled to turn on or off the defrost heater 330 according to the change rate (ΔT) of the. Accordingly, since defrosting can be performed based on the temperature change rate ΔT, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of ice (ICE) of the actual evaporator 122, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may control the continuous operation mode (Pona) or the pulse operation mode (Ponb) to be performed according to the temperature change rate ΔT of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 . Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may control the heater to be driven with power inversely proportional to the temperature change rate ΔT of the temperature sensed by the sensor during the pulse operation mode Ponb. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may control the period of performing the defrosting operation mode Pdf to be shorter as the number of times the cooling chamber door is opened increases. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Fig. 12A is a diagram showing a temperature waveform of the evaporator when there is a large amount of frost formation.

12a (a), CVma represents the temperature change waveform when the defrost heater is operated only in the continuous operation mode, and CVmb is the temperature change waveform when the defrost heater is operated by mixing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode. indicates.

According to CVma, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and may be turned off at the time Tmg, as shown in (b) of FIG. 12A .

According to CVmb, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on during the Tma period, as shown in (c) of FIG. 12a, during Tma and Tmb, during Tmc and Tmd, during Tme and Tmf, during Tmg and Tmh ) is off, and the defrost heater 330 is turned on during Tmb and Tmc, during Tmd and Tme, during Tmf and Tmg, and during Tmh and Tmi.

That is, from Tma to Tmi, it operates in the pulse operation mode.

Meanwhile, the control unit 310 controls the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode (Pona), and in the on state of the defrost heater 330, the evaporator ( 122) When the change rate ΔT of the ambient temperature is equal to or greater than the first reference value ref1, the pulse operation mode Ponb may be entered, and the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be turned off. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in the state that the defrost heater 330 is off during the pulse operation mode (Ponb), the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature around the evaporator 122 is a second reference value smaller than the first reference value (ref1) (ref2) or less, the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be turned on. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, in a state in which the defrost heater 330 is turned on during the pulse operation mode Ponb, when the rate of change ΔT of the temperature around the evaporator 122 is equal to or greater than the first reference value ref1, the defrost heater 330 may be controlled to be turned on. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

On the other hand, the control unit 310 controls the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode (Pona), and according to the pulse operation mode (Ponb), the rate of change of the temperature around the evaporator 122 (ΔT) ) is between the first reference value ref1 and the second reference value ref2, the on and off of the defrost heater 330 may be repeated. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Fig. 12B is a diagram showing a temperature waveform of the evaporator when the amount of frost formation is smaller than that of Fig. 12A.

12b (a), CVna represents the temperature change waveform when the defrost heater is operated only in the continuous operation mode, and CVnb is the temperature change waveform when the defrost heater is operated by mixing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode. indicates.

According to CVna, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and may be turned off at the time Tng, as shown in FIG. 12B (b).

According to CVnb, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on for the period Tna, as shown in (c) of FIG. 12b, during Tna and Tnb, during Tnc and Tnd, during Tne and Tnf, during Tng and Tnh, defrost heater 330 ) is off, and the defrost heater 330 is turned on during Tnb and Tnc, during Tnd and Tne, during Tnf and Tng, and during Tnh and Tni.

That is, from Tna to Tni, it operates in the pulse operation mode.

13 is a view illustrating a region requiring cooling power supply and a region requiring defrosting according to temperatures of the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment;

Referring to the drawings, the horizontal axis may indicate the temperature of the refrigerating compartment, and the vertical axis may indicate the temperature of the freezing compartment.

When the reference temperature of the freezing compartment is refma or less, it may indicate that the freezing capacity is sufficient, and when it is less than the reference temperature of the refrigerator compartment, refmb, it may indicate that the cooling capacity of the refrigerator compartment is sufficient.

An arma region in the drawing is a region in which the freezing capacity of the freezer compartment and the cooling capacity of the refrigerating compartment are sufficient, and may be a region requiring defrosting.

Accordingly, the controller 310 may control the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode to be performed when the defrosting required region is satisfied based on the temperature of the refrigerating chamber and the freezing chamber. In particular, it is possible to control the on/off of the defrost heater 330 in the pulse operation mode based on the temperature change rate around the evaporator 122 .

On the other hand, the armb region in the drawing is an area in which both the freezing capacity of the freezer compartment and the cooling capacity of the refrigerating compartment are insufficient, and may be a region requiring cooling power supply.

Accordingly, the control unit 310 may control the supply of cooling power. For example, a compressor may be operated or a thermoelectric element may be operated to control supply of cooling power.

14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a defrost heater according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 15A to 15C are diagrams referenced in the description of FIG. 14 .

First, referring to FIG. 14 , the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention determines whether it is a defrosting operation start time for defrosting ( S610 ).

For example, the control unit 310 of the refrigerator 100 may determine whether it is a defrosting operation start time while performing the general cooling operation mode Pga. The defrost operation start time may vary according to the defrost cycle.

On the other hand, when a defrosting operation start condition is satisfied, for example, when a defrosting operation start time is reached, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 ends the general cooling operation mode, and the defrost operation mode Pdf is changed. can be controlled to perform.

Meanwhile, the defrost operation mode Pdf may include a cooling mode before defrosting (Pbd), a heater operation mode (PddT), and a cooling mode after defrosting (pbf).

On the other hand, the heater operation mode (PddT) may include a continuous operation mode (Pona) in which the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and a pulse operation mode (Ponb) in which the defrost heater 330 repeats on and off. have.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the heater operation mode PddT in the defrost operation mode Pdf ( S615 ).

In particular, the controller 310 may control the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode Pona in the heater operation mode PddT.

Next, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 controls the pulse operation mode Ponb in which the defrost heater 330 is repeatedly turned on and off by a heater pulse after the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on. You can (S620).

On the other hand, the control unit 310, while performing the pulse operation mode (Ponb), determines whether or not the return condition to the continuous operation mode is satisfied (S623), if applicable, control so that the continuous operation mode is performed again have.

For example, when the switching element RL of FIG. 7A is continuously turned on and off, the possibility of loss of the switching element RL may increase. Accordingly, the controller 310 may terminate the pulse operation mode and control the continuous operation mode to be performed again.

Accordingly, even in the pulse operation mode Ponb, when the defrosting of the frost is not smoothly performed, the defrosting may be stably performed.

Next, the controller 310 determines whether it is the end time of the pulse operation mode ( S630 ), and turns off the defrost heater 330 if applicable ( S640 ). .

For example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be a time at which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 falls below the phase change temperature Trf1 .

As another example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be the end time of the defrosting operation or the end time of the heater operation mode.

On the other hand, it is also possible to perform the continuous operation mode Ponc again after performing the pulse operation mode Ponb without determining the condition for returning to the continuous operation mode in step 623 ( S623 ).

For example, the controller 310 may control the continuous operation mode Ponc to be performed again after the pulse operation mode Ponb is performed for stable defrosting. Accordingly, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency and power consumption. In particular, since defrosting is performed according to the amount of frost of the actual evaporator, it is possible to improve defrost efficiency and power consumption.

Meanwhile, various examples are possible for a method of determining whether a condition for returning to the continuous operation mode is satisfied while the pulse operation mode Ponb is being performed in step S623 ( S623 ).

For example, when the value related to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 does not reach the reference value while performing the pulse operation mode (Ponb), the control unit 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth, and the rapid defrost For removal, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) may be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is below the reference temperature, the control unit 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth, and for rapid defrosting, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) can be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, when the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is less than or equal to the reference temperature change rate (ΔT), it is determined that the frost removal is not smooth, For rapid defrosting, continuous operation mode (Ponc) can be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) does not reach the target temperature within a predetermined time, the control unit 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth and promptly removes the defrost. For this, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) may be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, when the sum (Ma + Mb +,,, Mn) of the on-time of the defrost heater 330 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is more than the reference level, it is determined that the defrosting is not smooth And, for rapid defrosting, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) can be controlled to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the sum of the number of times of turning on the defrost heater 330 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is greater than the reference number, the controller 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth, and for rapid defrosting, continuous It is possible to control the operation mode (Ponc) to be performed. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, the sum (Ma + Mb +,,, Mn) of the on time of the defrost heater 330 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is, the continuous on time of the defrost heater 330 in the continuous operation mode If it is greater than the sum (Mo), it is determined that the defrost is not smooth, and the continuous operation mode (Ponc) may be controlled to be performed in order to quickly remove the defrost. Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the door open period is longer than the allowable period during the pulse operation mode (Ponb), the control unit 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth and performs the continuous operation mode (Ponc) for rapid defrosting. can be controlled Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

On the other hand, when the humidity in the refrigerator is higher than the reference humidity during the pulse operation mode (Ponb), the control unit 310 determines that the defrost is not smooth, and performs the continuous operation mode (Ponc) for rapid defrosting. can be controlled Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

15A is a diagram illustrating an example of a pulse waveform indicating an operation of a defrost heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings, a horizontal axis of the pulse waveform Pshm may indicate time, and a vertical axis may indicate a level.

The controller 310 of the refrigerator 100, while performing the general cooling operation mode Pga, when the defrosting cloud start start time To is reached, ends the general cooling operation mode Pga, and the defrost operation mode Pdf ) can be controlled to be performed.

The defrost operation mode (Pdf) may include a cooling mode before defrosting (Pbd) between Toa and Ta, a heater operation mode (PddT) between Ta and Td, and a cooling mode after defrosting (pbf) between Td and Te. .

On the other hand, after the defrost operation mode (Pdf) is terminated, the normal cooling operation mode (Pgb) is performed again.

The defrost heater 330 is turned off in the general cooling operation mode (Pga) and the general cooling operation mode (Pgb).

Meanwhile, the defrost heater 330 may be turned off in the pre-defrost cooling mode Pbd and the post-defrost cooling mode pbf among the defrost operation mode Pdf.

On the other hand, the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on in the continuous operation mode (Pona) in the heater operation mode (PddT), and repeats on and off in the pulse operation mode (Ponb) in the heater operation mode (PddT), It may be continuously turned on in the continuous operation mode (Ponc) in the heater operation mode (PddT).

Unlike FIG. 8A , according to FIG. 15A , there is a difference in that the continuous operation mode Ponc is further performed after the pulse operation mode Ponb.

As described in the description of FIG. 14 , when the return condition to the continuous operation mode (Ponc) of the defrost heater 330 is reached as the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is performed, the controller 310 controls the continuous operation mode (Ponc) can be controlled to perform further.

The continuous operation mode Pona may be performed between Ta and Tb, and the pulse operation mode Ponb may be performed between Tb and Tc.

In addition, the additional continuous operation mode Ponc may be performed between Tcm and Td. In the drawing, it is exemplified that the period during which the additional continuous operation mode Ponc is performed is Mz.

By this additional continuous operation mode (Ponc), while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

15B is a diagram illustrating another example of a pulse waveform indicating an operation of a defrost heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The pulse waveform Pshn of FIG. 15B is similar to the pulse waveform Pshm of FIG. 15A , except that the additional continuous operation mode Ponc is performed between Tcm and Tcn.

In the drawing, it is exemplified that My, which is the execution period of the additional continuous operation mode Ponc, is smaller than Mz of FIG. 15A .

The controller 310 may vary the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed according to a difference between the temperature-related value and the reference value sensed by the temperature sensor 320 . For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller. By this additional continuous operation mode (Ponc), while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may vary the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed according to a difference between the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 and the reference temperature while the pulse operation mode Ponb is being performed. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) is performed according to the difference between the rate of change (ΔT) of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 and the rate of change of the reference temperature (ΔT) during the execution of the pulse operation mode (Ponb) The duration can be variable. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may vary the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed according to a difference between the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 and the target temperature while the pulse operation mode Ponb is being performed. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, the continuous operation mode (Ponc) according to the difference between the reference level and the sum (Ma + Mb +,,, Mn) of the on-time of the defrost heater 330 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is performed The period during which the is performed can be varied. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may vary the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed according to a difference between the sum of the number of turns on the defrost heater 330 and the reference number during the pulse operation mode Ponb. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

On the other hand, the control unit 310, according to the difference between the sum (Ma + Mb +,,, Mn) of the on-time of the defrost heater 330 during the pulse operation mode (Ponb) and the sum of the continuous on-times (Mo), The period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be varied. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may vary the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed according to a difference between the humidity in the refrigerator and the reference humidity during the pulse operation mode Ponb. For example, as the difference becomes smaller, the period during which the continuous operation mode Ponc is performed may be controlled to be smaller.

15C is a diagram illustrating another example of a pulse waveform indicating an operation of a defrost heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The pulse waveform Psho of FIG. 15C is similar to the pulse waveform Pshm of FIG. 15A, but after the pulse operation mode Ponb, the additional continuous operation mode Ponab and the additional pulse operation mode ponbb are further performed. There is a difference in that.

In the drawings, it is exemplified that after Tc, an additional continuous operation mode (Ponab) is performed between Ta' and Tb', and an additional pulse operation mode (ponbb) is performed between Tb' and Tc'.

On the other hand, the duration of the additional continuous operation mode (Ponab) is preferably shorter than the duration of the continuous operation mode (Pona).

On the other hand, it is preferable that the duration of the additional pulse operation mode (ponbb) is shorter than the duration of the continuous operation mode (Ponb). Accordingly, while the defrosting is stably performed, it is possible to improve the defrosting efficiency.

16 is a flowchart illustrating a defrosting method according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 17A to 17C are views referenced in the description of FIG. 16 .

First, referring to FIG. 16 , the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention determines whether it is a defrosting operation start time for defrosting ( S1610 ).

For example, the control unit 310 of the refrigerator 100 may determine whether it is a defrosting operation start time while performing the general cooling operation mode Pga. The defrost operation start time may vary according to the defrost cycle.

On the other hand, when a defrosting operation start condition is satisfied, for example, when a defrosting operation start time is reached, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 ends the general cooling operation mode, and the defrost operation mode Pdf is changed. can be controlled to perform.

Meanwhile, the defrost operation mode Pdf may include a cooling mode before defrosting (Pbd), a heater operation mode (PddT), and a cooling mode after defrosting (pbf).

On the other hand, the heater operation mode (PddT) may include a continuous operation mode (Pona) in which the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on, and a pulse operation mode (Ponb) in which the defrost heater 330 repeats on and off. have.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrost heater 330 to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode Pona in the heater operation mode PddT in the defrost operation mode Pdf. (S1615).

Next, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 determines whether the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 reaches the first temperature Tm1 within the first period Pm1 while performing the continuous operation mode Pona. It is determined whether or not (S1616).

And, if applicable, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 performs a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater 330 is repeatedly turned on and off by a heater pulse after the defrost heater 330 is continuously turned on. can be controlled (S1620).

FIG. 17A (a) shows an example of a temperature waveform Tcva around the evaporator 122 , and FIG. 17A (b) shows an example of an operation waveform Psh of the defrost heater 330 .

Referring to the drawing, according to the heater operation mode Pon, the continuous operation mode Pona is performed during the Pm1 period between Ta and Tb.

On the other hand, the control unit 310 of the refrigerator 100, while performing the continuous operation mode (Pona), within the first period (Pm1), or as shown in the figure, at Tb, which is the end time of the first period (Pm1), the temperature sensor ( When the temperature sensed in 320 reaches the first temperature Tm1 , the pulse operation mode Ponb may be controlled to be performed after Tb.

That is, after the time Tb, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the defrost heater 330 to be turned off for the period pf1 and then repeatedly turn on and off.

As such, when the amount of frost implanted on the evaporator 122 is small, by controlling the continuous operation mode (Pona) to be performed, the pulse operation mode (Ponb) is performed after the continuous operation mode (Pona) is performed, so that the defrost efficiency and power consumption can be improved do.

Next, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 determines whether the pulse operation mode is terminated (S1630), and if applicable, turns off the defrost heater 330 (S1640).

For example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be a time at which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 falls below the phase change temperature Trf1 .

As another example, the end time of the pulse operation mode may be the end time of the defrosting operation or the end time of the heater operation mode.

On the other hand, in step 1616 ( S1616 ), while the continuous operation mode (Pona) is being performed, within the first period (Pm1), when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 does not reach the first temperature (Tm1), the first Step 1617 may be performed.

That is, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 is configured to prevent the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 from reaching the first temperature Tm1 within the first period Pm1 while performing the continuous operation mode Pona. In this case, it is determined whether the period of reaching the first temperature Tm1 of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is greater than or equal to the second period (S1617).

And, if applicable, it is determined that the amount of frost implanted in the evaporator 122 is large, and the continuous operation mode (Pona) may be controlled to continue to be performed (S1623).

Figure 17b (a) shows another example of the temperature waveform (Tcvb) around the evaporator 122, (b) of Figure 17b shows another example of the operation waveform (Pshb1) of the defrost heater (330).

Referring to the drawing, according to the heater operation mode Pon, during the Pm1 period between Ta and Tb, the continuous operation mode Pona is performed.

On the other hand, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 does not reach the first temperature Tm1 from the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 within the first period Pm1 while the continuous operation mode Pona1 is being performed. In this case, it is determined whether the period for reaching the first temperature Tm1 is equal to or greater than the second period pm2 .

In the drawing, it is exemplified that the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 reaches the end time of the second period pm2 .

Accordingly, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the continuous operation mode Pona1 to be performed during the periods Ta and Tc.

In addition, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control that only the continuous operation mode Pona1 is performed and the pulse operation mode Ponb is not performed during the heater operation mode Pon. Accordingly, when the amount of frost implanted in the erection 122 is large, it is possible to control such that efficient defrosting is performed.

Meanwhile, unlike the drawing, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the continuous operation mode Pona1 to be performed for a predetermined period after the Tc period.

Meanwhile, after the continuous operation mode Pona1 of FIG. 17B , step 1622 ( S1622 ) may be performed again.

Meanwhile, in step 1617 ( S1617 ), during the continuous operation mode (Pona), the period of reaching the first temperature Tm1 of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is not longer than the second period, the first period and If it is between the second period, step 1618 ( S1618 ) may be performed.

That is, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 controls the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 to the second temperature Tm2 between the first period and the second period while the continuous operation mode Pona is being performed. It is determined whether or not it arrives (S1618). And, if applicable, the defrost heater may be turned off (S1619), and the control may be performed to turn the defrost heater on and off according to the pulse operation mode (S1621).

17c (a) shows another example of the temperature waveform Tcvc around the evaporator 122, and FIG. 17c (b) shows another example of the operation waveform Pshb2 of the defrost heater 330. do.

Referring to the drawing, according to the heater operation mode Pon2, during the Pm1 period between Ta and Tb, the continuous operation mode) is performed.

On the other hand, the control unit 310 of the refrigerator 100, while performing the continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 does not reach the first temperature Tm1 within the first period Pm1, It is determined whether the period for reaching 1 temperature Tm1 is equal to or greater than the second period pm2 or between the first period pm1 and the second period pm2.

In the drawing, in Tk between the first period pm1 and the second period pm2, the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 reaches the first temperature Tm1, and the first period pm1 and the second period It illustrates that the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 reaches the second temperature Tm2 at Tm between the periods pm2 .

Accordingly, the controller 310 of the refrigerator 100 may control the continuous operation mode to be performed until the time point Tm when the second temperature Tm2 is reached.

In addition, after the first off of the defrost heater 330 after the time Tm, the pulse operation mode Ponb2 may be controlled to be performed.

On the other hand, in consideration of the heat generation of the switching element RL of FIG. 7A as the continuous operation mode continues, the first off period psf2 of the defrost heater 330 after the time Tm is of the pulse operation mode Ponb2. It is preferable that it is larger than the OFF period at the time of ON and OFF.

On the other hand, the first off period psf2 of the defrost heater 330 after the time Tm when the pulse operation mode Ponb2 is performed is the defrost heater 330 after the time Tb when the pulse operation mode Ponb of FIG. 17A is performed. It is preferably greater than the first off period of pof1. Accordingly, it is possible to protect the switching element RL of FIG. 7A and the like.

On the other hand, according to FIGS. 17A to 17C , when the control unit 310 is performing the continuous operation mode Pon, the smaller the change rate of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is, the smaller the start time of the pulse operation mode Ponb is. delay can be controlled.

That is, compared to FIG. 17A , in the case of FIG. 17C , the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is smaller, and accordingly, the start time of the pulse operation mode becomes later.

Meanwhile, compared to FIG. 17C , in the case of FIG. 17B , the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is smaller, and accordingly, the pulse operation mode may not start at all.

Meanwhile, the controller 310 may control the continuous operation mode (Pona) execution period to increase as the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 decreases while the continuous operation mode (Pona) is being performed.

For example, compared to FIG. 17A , in FIG. 17C , the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is smaller. Accordingly, the continuous operation mode execution period is a period between Ta and Tm, as shown in FIG. 17A . becomes larger than the period between Ta and Tb.

On the other hand, compared to FIG. 17C , in the case of FIG. 17B , the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is smaller. Accordingly, the continuous operation mode execution period is a period between Ta and Tc, which is the Ta in FIG. 17B . is greater than the period between and Tm. Accordingly, efficient defrosting can be performed.

On the other hand, unlike FIGS. 17A to 17C , the controller 310 determines that the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 is measured between the first period Pm1 and the second period Pm2 while the continuous operation mode is being performed. When the first temperature Tm1 is reached, the pulse operation mode Ponb may be controlled to be performed after the defrost heater 310 is turned off without determining whether the second period Pm2 has been reached.

In addition, the control unit 310, the pulse operation mode when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 320 reaches the first temperature Tm1 between the first period Pm1 and the second period Pm2 Pulse operation mode ( Ponb) may be controlled to be greater than the off period of the defrost heater 310 before performing. Accordingly, efficient defrosting can be performed.

In the refrigerator according to the present invention, the configuration and method of the embodiments described above are not limitedly applicable to the refrigerator according to the present invention, but all or part of each embodiment is selectively combined so that various modifications can be made. could be

In addition, although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and the technical field to which the present invention belongs without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the claims Various modifications are possible by those of ordinary skill in the art, and these modifications should not be individually understood from the technical spirit or prospect of the present invention.

The present invention is applicable to refrigerators, and in particular, to refrigerators capable of improving defrosting efficiency and power consumption.

Claims (20)

an evaporator that performs heat exchange; a defrost heater operating to remove the frost on the evaporator; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature around the evaporator; Including; a control unit for controlling the defrost heater; The control unit is When the defrost operation start point is reached, the defrost operation mode is controlled to be performed, Controlling to perform a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on according to the defrost operation mode, and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on and off, After performing the pulse operation mode, the refrigerator, characterized in that the control so that the continuous operation mode is performed again. According to claim 1, The control unit is The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed when the pulse operation mode is performed and a condition for returning to the continuous operation mode of the defrost heater is reached. According to claim 1, The control unit is When the value related to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the reference value while performing the pulse operation mode, or when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor during the pulse operation mode is below the reference temperature, or performing the pulse operation mode When the rate of change of the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is less than or equal to the reference temperature change rate, or when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor does not reach the target temperature within a predetermined time while performing the pulse operation mode, the continuous operation mode is performed Refrigerator, characterized in that the control. According to claim 1, The control unit is When the sum of on-times of the defrost heaters during the pulse operation mode is equal to or greater than the reference level, or when the sum of the number of on-times of the defrost heaters during the pulse operation mode is equal to or greater than the reference number, or during the pulse operation mode The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed when the sum of the on times of the defrost heater is greater than the sum of the continuous on times of the defrost heaters in the continuous operation mode. According to claim 1, The control unit is The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed when a door open period is longer than an allowable period while the pulse operation mode is being performed. According to claim 1, The control unit is The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed when the humidity in the refrigerator is higher than or equal to a reference humidity while the pulse operation mode is being performed. According to claim 1, The control unit is When the defrost operation start time is reached while performing the general cooling operation mode, the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost is controlled to be performed, The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the control is performed to perform a continuous operation mode of the defrost heater and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on and off according to the heater operation mode. According to claim 1, The control unit is Controlling the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, When the rate of change of the ambient temperature of the evaporator detected by the temperature sensor is greater than or equal to the first reference value in the on state of the defrost heater, the pulse operation mode is entered and the defrost heater is controlled to be turned off, In a state in which the defrost heater is turned off during the pulse operation mode, when the rate of change of the temperature around the evaporator is less than or equal to a second reference value smaller than the first reference value, the refrigerator according to claim 1 , wherein the defrost heater is controlled to be turned on. According to claim 1, The control unit is Controlling the defrost heater to be continuously turned on according to the continuous operation mode, The refrigerator according to claim 1 , wherein turning on and off of the defrost heater is repeated so that a rate of change of a temperature around the evaporator is between a first reference value and a second reference value according to the pulse operation mode. According to claim 1, The control unit is The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein as the number of times the cooling chamber door is opened increases, the execution period of the defrost operation mode is controlled to be shorter. According to claim 1, The control unit is In the defrost operation mode, than when the peak temperature of the evaporator is reached when the defrost heater is continuously turned on, In the defrosting operation mode, when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode are performed, the time of reaching the peak temperature of the evaporator is controlled to be later. According to claim 1, The control unit is In the defrost operation mode, than the size of the first section area related to the temperature versus time between the phase change temperature and the defrost end temperature in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater, In the defrosting operation mode, controlling the size of the second section area related to the temperature versus time between the phase change temperature and the defrost termination temperature in the case of performing the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode to be larger Refrigerator made with According to claim 1, The control unit is In the defrost operation mode, than the effective defrost in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater, The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein in the defrosting operation mode, effective defrosting is greater when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode are performed. According to claim 1, The control unit is In the defrost operation mode, rather than the heater off point in the case of continuously turning on the defrost heater, In the defrosting operation mode, when the continuous operation mode and the pulse operation mode are performed, a heater off time is controlled to be later. According to claim 1, The control unit is When the defrost operation start time is reached, the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost is controlled to be performed, According to the heater operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature within a first period during the continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, the defrost heater repeats on and off control to perform pulse operation mode, While the continuous operation mode is being performed, when the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to a second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is controlled to continue to be performed refrigerator to do. an evaporator that performs heat exchange; a defrost heater operating to remove the frost on the evaporator; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature around the evaporator; Including; a control unit for controlling the defrost heater; The control unit is When the defrost operation start point is reached, the defrost operation mode is controlled to be performed, Controlling to perform a continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on according to the defrost operation mode, and a pulse operation mode in which the defrost heater is repeatedly turned on and off, The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein when a condition for returning to the continuous operation mode of the defrost heater is reached when the pulse operation mode is performed, the continuous operation mode is controlled to be performed again. an evaporator that performs heat exchange; a defrost heater operating to remove the frost on the evaporator; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature around the evaporator; Including; a control unit for controlling the defrost heater; The control unit is When the start point of the defrost operation is reached, the defrost operation mode including the cooling mode before defrost, the heater operation mode, and the cooling mode after the defrost is controlled to be performed, According to the heater operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature within a first period during the continuous operation mode in which the defrost heater is continuously turned on, the defrost heater repeats on and off control to perform pulse operation mode, While the continuous operation mode is being performed, when the period during which the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature is greater than or equal to a second period greater than the first period, the continuous operation mode is controlled to continue to be performed refrigerator to do. 18. The method of claim 17, The control unit is During the continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature after reaching the first temperature between the first period and the second period , after the defrost heater is turned off, the refrigerator, characterized in that the control so that the pulse operation mode is performed. 19. The method of claim 18, The control unit is When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches a second temperature greater than the first temperature between the first period and the second period, an off period of the defrost heater before the pulse operation mode is performed, The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is controlled to be greater than an off period of the defrost heater before the pulse operation mode when the first temperature is reached within the first period. 18. The method of claim 17, The control unit is During the continuous operation mode, when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the first temperature between the first period and the second period, after the defrost heater is turned off, the pulse operation mode is Refrigerator, characterized in that the control to be performed.

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