BACKGROUND
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.
[0002] Refrigerators are apparatuses for storing foods at a low temperature in an inner
storage space covered by a door. Cool air may be continuously supplied into such a
refrigerator to maintain an inner storage space of the refrigerator at a low temperature.
The cool air is generated by heat-exchanging with a refrigerant through a refrigeration
cycle including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation processes. The
cool air supplied into the refrigerator may be uniformly transferred into the refrigerator
by a convection current thereof to store foods within the refrigerator at a desired
temperature.
[0003] An evaporator constituting the refrigeration cycle is provided in a vaporizing chamber
to heat-exchange air circulating into the refrigerator with the refrigerant. Since
a surface temperature of the evaporator is significantly lower than an indoor temperature,
condensed water is generated on the surface of the evaporator while being heat-exchanging
with the air circulating into the refrigerator. The condensed water is frozen on the
surface of the evaporator or vaporizing chamber to generate frosts. If frosts are
accumulated on the surface of the evaporator, heat-exchange efficiency between the
evaporator and the air within the refrigerator may be reduced.
[0004] To prevent frosts from being generated on the surface of the evaporator, a technology
in which a defrost heater is mounted on a side of the evaporator, or the refrigeration
cycle is reversely performed for a predetermined time to melt the frosts generated
on the surface of the evaporator may be utilized. The condensed water generated on
the surface of the evaporator or the defrost water generated by the melting of the
frosts is collected into a drain pan attached to the bottom of the evaporator. Then,
the water collected into the drain pan drops onto the bottom of a machine room through
a drain hose.
[0005] A defrost sensor assembly for detecting an amount of frosts attached to the evaporator
is mounted on a side of the evaporator. In detail, the amount of frosts attached to
the evaporator is detected by the defrost sensor assembly, and then, the detected
result is transmitted into a control part. Also, the control part determines whether
the value transmitted from the defrost sensor assembly reaches a previously inputted
defrosting start value. When the transmitted value reaches the defrosting start value,
the defrost heater is operated to start a defrosting operation.
EP 1 726 895 A1 presents anti-freeze protection device for chillers, comprising a control circuit
connected to ice sensors and local heaters. In the event of formation of ice, the
sensors indicate its presence to the control circuit which suspends operation of the
chiller, adjusts opening and closing of the expansion valves located at the evaporator
inlet, or suspends operation of the chiller compressor only, and if necessary operates
the heaters, thus melting the ice into water which is removed by the known means used
for removing condensate.
DE 27 50 165 A1 discloses a frost detector comprising a piezoelectric element secured on a metal
diaphragm and inside an air-tight space formed by the diaphragm, a base and a bellows
which airtightly and resiliently connects the diaphragm and the base, the base being
secured on a fin of a heat exchanger, the piezoelectric element being connected to
an oscillation circuit and an oscillation detection circuit; resonance frequency and
impedance characteristic of the piezoelectric element being changed by frosting on
the outside face of the diaphragm, and the frosting being detected through a change
or stopping of the oscillation and resultant output signal by the oscillation detection
circuit. When the defrost sensor assembly is mounted on the evaporator, if frosts
are generated on a surface of the evaporator, frosts may be generated on a surface
of the defrost sensor assembly. When the frosts are generated on the surface of the
defrost sensor assembly, the defrost sensor assembly may not precisely detect an amount
of frosts generated on the surface of the evaporator. Thus, there is a limitation
that the frosts generated on the surface of the evaporator are effectively removed.
In refrigerators according to the related art, although a defrost heater for melting
frosts attached on the evaporator is provided, a structure for removing frosts attached
to the surface of the defrost sensor assembly is not disclosed.
[0006] Also, an existing defrost logic is designed to periodically perform a defrosting
operation, irrelevant to an amount of actual attached frosts. Thus, there is a limitation
that the defrosting is performed in a state where an amount of attached frosts does
not reach a defrosting start time or the defrosting is not properly performed at the
defrosting start time. Furthermore, there is a limitation that the defrosting operation
is not adequately finished at a defrosting finish time.
SUMMARY
[0007] According to the invention, there is provided a refrigerator having the features
of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined in dependent claims 2-19.
[0008] Embodiments provide a refrigerator which prevents frosts from being attached to a
surface of a defrost sensor assembly mounted on an evaporator to precisely detect
an amount of frosts attached to a surface of the evaporator and a controlling method
thereof.
[0009] Embodiments also provide a refrigerator which includes a sensor for precisely detecting
an amount of frosts attached to an evaporator to adequately start a defrosting operation
at a defrosting requirement time and adequately finish the defrosting operation at
a defrosting finish time.
[0010] The refrigerator of the invention comprises, in particular, a main body (10) providing
a storage space in which foods are stored at a low temperature; a vaporizing chamber
(300) defined in a side of the main body (10); an evaporator (320) received in the
vaporizing chamber (300); a sensor module (400) comprising a sensing part (410) received
in the vaporizing chamber (300) to detect an amount of frosts attached to the evaporator
(320); a control part (500) controlling an operation of the sensor module (400); and
a defrost heater (340) removing the frosts attached to the evaporator (320), wherein
the sensor module (400) further comprises at least one sensor defrost part (350) removing
frosts attached to the sensing part (410).
[0011] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings
and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and
drawings, and from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012]
Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.
Fig. 2 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.
Fig. 3 is a view illustrating a vaporizing chamber of a refrigerator according to
an embodiment.
Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a sensor module according to an embodiment.
Fig. 5 is a plan view of the sensor module.
Fig. 6 is a perspective of a module support according to a first embodiment.
Fig. 7 is a perspective of a module support according to a second embodiment.
Fig. 8 is a perspective of a module support according to a third embodiment.
Fig. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 3.
Fig. 10 is a view illustrating a state in which a defrost sensor assembly including
a module support is mounted on an evaporator according to a fourth embodiment.
Fig. 11 is a view illustrating a state in which a defrost sensor assembly including
a module support is mounted on an evaporator according to a fifth embodiment.
Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling a sensor defrost part
according to an embodiment.
Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling a sensor defrost part
according to another embodiment.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an evaporator according to another embodiment.
Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E' of Fig. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0013] In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is
made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by
way of illustration specific preferred embodiments in which the invention may be practiced.
These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the
art to practice the invention, and it is understood that other embodiments may be
utilized and that logical structural, mechanical, electrical, and chemical changes
may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. To avoid detail not
necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the description
may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed
description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the
present invention is defined only by the appended claims.
[0014] Hereinafter, specific embodiments for embodying the idea of the present disclosure
will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0015] Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.
[0016] Referring to Fig. 1, a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment includes a main
body 10 having a freezing compartment 100 and a refrigerating compartment and a freezing
compartment door 20 and a refrigerating compartment door which are rotatably provided
on a front surface of the main body 10 to selectively open or close the freezing compartment
100 and the refrigerating compartment, respectively. Also, the freezing compartment
100 and the refrigerating compartment are partitioned by a barrier (not shown).
[0017] A drawer 12 for receiving foods and a shelf 14 for placing foods thereon may be provided
in the freezing compartment 100 and the refrigerating compartment. A door basket 22
for receiving foods may be mounted on a back surface of the freezing compartment door
20. According to the type of refrigerator, an ice maker 24 may be mounted inside the
freezing compartment 100 or on the back surface of the freezing compartment door 20.
Also, ices made in the ice maker 24 are discharged through a duct 25 provided in the
freezing compartment door 20 and dispensed to the outside through a dispenser 26 connected
to the duct 25. A user may easily receive and withdraw foods by the food storage units
12, 14, and 22. In addition, an inner space of the refrigerator 1 may be efficiently
utilized.
[0018] A vaporizing chamber 300 in which an evaporator 320 for heat-exchanging a refrigerant
with air to generate cool air is received is defined in a rear side of the freezing
compartment 100. The vaporizing chamber 300 is coved by an evaporator cover 120. Also,
a cool air duct 110 for guiding the cool air generated in the evaporator 320 is disposed
above the evaporator cover 120 to extend vertically. Also, a blower fan 330 is disposed
above the evaporator 320 to discharge the cool air generated in the evaporator 320
into the freezing compartment 100 through a plurality of cool air discharge holes
111 defined in the cool air duct 110.
[0019] A defrost sensor assembly 350 is mounted on the evaporator 320 to detect an amount
of frosts attached to a surface of the evaporator 320. A defrost heater 340 for melting
the frosts generated on the evaporator 320 or vaporizing chamber 300 is disposed under
the evaporator 320.
[0020] Also, a cool air suction hole 311 through which cool air circulating into the freezing
compartment 100 is introduced again into the evaporator 320 is disposed under the
cool air duct 110. A suction fan for smoothly suctioning the cool air into the vaporizing
chamber 300 may be disposed inside the cool air suction hole 311.
[0021] A machine room 19 in which a compressor 191 and a condenser (not shown) constituting
a refrigeration cycle is provided is disposed under the refrigerator 1.
[0022] Fig. 2 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment.
[0023] Referring to Fig. 2, the refrigerator 1 includes a control part 500 for controlling
components. The control part 500 controls a memory 510 for storing information required
for operating the refrigerator 1, a power supply part 520 for supplying a power into
each of the components of the refrigerator 1, a defrost sensor assembly 350 for detecting
an amount of frosts attached to the evaporator 320, and a defrost heater driving part
550 for operating the defrost heater 340.
[0024] The defrost sensor assembly 350 detects an amount of frosts attached to the evaporator
320, and the control part 500 determines an operation of the defrost heater 340 by
comparing the amount of attached frosts detected by the defrost sensor assembly 350
with a previously inputted reference value. That is, the control part 500 determines
defrosting start and finish times of the defrost heater 340 for removing the frosts
attached to the vaporizing chamber 300 or the evaporator 320. Anything may be used
for the defrost sensor assembly 350 when one can detect an amount of frosts attached
to the evaporator 320. For example, an infrared sensor may be used as the defrost
sensor assembly 350.
[0025] In detail, the infrared sensor includes a light emitting part for emitting infrared
rays and a light receiving part for detecting an amount of infrared rays emitted from
the light emitting part and then reflected by the frosts. Thus, an amount of attached
frosts may be detected according to an amount of reflected infrared rays detected
by the light receiving part.
[0026] An amount of attached frosts depending on an amount of received infrared rays and
a sensing period of the defrost sensor depending on the amount of attached frosts
may be stored in the memory 510 in a look-up table form. Thus, an actually detected
value detected by the frost sensor assembly 350 is compared with the look-up table
to extract an amount of attached frosts. As a result, the sensing period of the frost
sensor assembly 350 may be reset.
[0027] The defrost heater driving part 550 is connected to the defrost heater 340. When
the defrost heater driving part 550 receives a driving signal from the control part
500, the defrost heater driving part 550 operates the defrost heater 340 to melt the
frosts generated on the evaporator 320.
[0028] The control part 500 controls a sensing operation of the defrost sensor assembly
350 according to the sensing period stored in the memory 510. Also, the control part
500 transmits a driving command into the defrost heater driving part 550 by comparing
the value detected by the defrost sensor assembly 350 with the defrosting start value
stored in the memory 510.
[0029] Fig. 3 is a view illustrating the vaporizing chamber of the refrigerator according
to an embodiment.
[0030] Referring to Fig. 3, the evaporator 320 may be disposed in the vaporizing chamber
300, and the defrost heater 340 may be disposed under the evaporator 320. A dryer
310 for removing moisture and impurities contained in the refrigerant may be connected
to an upper portion of the evaporator 320. In current embodiment, the evaporator 320
may have a structure in which the refrigerant is introduced from an upper side.
[0031] The evaporator 320 includes a refrigerant tube 322 through which the refrigerant
flows and heat exchange fins 325 for more smoothly heat-exchanging air passing through
the evaporator 300 with the refrigerant. The refrigerant tube 322 forms a winding
meander line. The refrigerant flows along the refrigerant tube 322. As shown in Fig.
3, the refrigerant tube 322 may be doubly or multiply arranged to be spaced apart
from each other in front and rear directions. A temperature sensor (not shown) for
measuring a temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 320 may be
disposed on the dryer 310 or an inlet of the refrigerant tube 322.
[0032] Frames 324 may be disposed on both sides of the evaporator 320, i.e., bent portions
of the refrigerant tube 322. Both ends of the refrigerant tube 322 are fixed to the
frames 324, respectively. Each of the frames 324 has a vertically long length corresponding
to a vertical length of the evaporator 320. Also, the frame 324 is mounted on an inner
side surface of the vaporizing chamber 300 so that the evaporator 320 is fixed and
mounted on the inner side surface of the vaporizing chamber 300.
[0033] The plurality of heat exchange fins 325 are coupled to the evaporator 320. The heat
exchange fins 325 may increase a surface area of the evaporator 320 to improve heat
exchange efficiency between air within the vaporizing chamber 300 and the refrigerant
passing through the evaporator 320. Each of the heat exchange fins 325 may be formed
of aluminum having superior thermal conductivity.
[0034] The defrost sensor assembly 350 may be mounted on the evaporator 320. The defrost
sensor assembly 350 detects an amount of frosts attached to the evaporator 320 to
transmit the detected value into the control part 350. The defrost sensor assembly
350 include a sensor module 400 (see Fig. 4) using infrared rays and a module support
360 (see Fig. 6) on which the sensor module 400 is seated.
[0035] Hereinafter, structures of the sensor module 400 and the module support 360 will
be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0036] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a sensor module according to an embodiment. Fig.
5 is a plan view of the sensor module.
[0037] Referring to Figs. 4 and 5, the sensor module 400 according to an embodiment includes
a base 401, a sensing part 410, a support 420, and a sensor defrost part 430.
[0038] The sensing part 410, the support 420, and the sensor defrost part 430 may be mounted
on the base 401.
[0039] The support 420 supports the sensing part 410 to be installed on the base 401. For
example, a hole having a shape corresponding to that of the sensing part 410 is defined
in the support 420. The sensing part 410 may be inserted through the hole. The support
420 may be integrated with the base 401 or separately manufactured with respect to
the base 401. The support 420 may be manufactured using a material having high thermal
conductivity. Also, the base 401 may be a circuit board on which the sensing part
410 and the sensor defrost part 430 are mounted.
[0040] The sensing part 410 is coupled to the support 420 and thus seated on the base 401.
The sensing part 410 may be provided in one or plurality. Also, each of the sensing
parts 410 includes a light emitting part for emitting infrared rays and a light receiving
part for receiving emitted from the light emitting part and then reflected by the
frosts.
[0041] The sensor defrost part 430 may be mounted on the base 401. The sensor defrost part
430 may contact at least one side of the support 420 or be disposed spaced a predetermined
distance from the support 420. The sensor defrost part 430 may be disposed close to
the sensing part 410. For example, the sensor defrost part 430 may be disposed adjacent
to the sensing part 410 under the support 420. The sensor defrost part 430 includes
a resistor which emits heat when a power is applied thereto. The sensor defrost part
430 may be provided in plurality according to a heating value of the resistor to improve
an effect for defrosting frosts attached to the sensing part 410.
[0042] A power is applied to the sensor defrost part 430 according to a preset period. Thus,
heat generated in the resistor disposed in the sensor defrost part 430 melts the frosts
attached to the sensing part 410. In a case where the support 420 on which the sensing
part 410 is mounted is manufactured using a material having high thermal conductivity,
heat generated in the resistor of the sensor defrost part 430 may be effectively transmitted
into the sensing part 410. Here, a voltage or current applied to the resistor may
be adjusted to adjust a heating value. Also, circuits of the resistor may be simply
designed to minimize power consumption of the resistor. As described above, since
a power is applied to the sensor defrost part 430 according to the preset period to
transmit heat into the sensing part 410, it may prevent frosts from being attached
to a surface of the sensing part 410. Thus, the sensing part 410 may precisely detect
an amount of frosts attached to the surface of the evaporator 320.
[0043] Fig. 6 is a perspective of a module support according to a first embodiment.
[0044] Referring to Fig. 6, a module support 360 according to the first embodiment includes
a body 361 on which a sensor module 400 is mounted and a leg 362 extending downward
from an edge of the body 361.
[0045] In detail, the leg 362 is mounted on an evaporator 320. That is, the leg 362 may
be mounted on a refrigerant tube 322 of the evaporator 320 to fix the body 361 to
the evaporator 320. Also, a tube holder 363 is disposed on the leg 362. The tube holder
363 protrudes from the leg 362 to surround an outer surface of the refrigerant tube
322.
[0046] Fig. 7 is a perspective of a module support according to a second embodiment.
[0047] Referring to Fig. 7, a module support 360 according to the second embodiment has
the same structure as that of the module support 360 according to the first embodiment
in that the module support 360 includes a body 361 and a leg 362. However, the module
support 360 according to the second embodiment is different from that according to
the first embodiment in that the module support 360 is fixed to a refrigerant tube.
[0048] In detail, a bracket 364 having the same length as the leg 362 may be coupled to
one surface of the leg 362. Also, a recess portion having a semicircular shape is
defined in each of the leg 362 and the bracket 364. When the bracket 364 is closely
attached to the leg 362, the recess portions form one cylindrical hole 365.
[0049] To fix the module support 360 to the refrigerant tube of an evaporator 320, the refrigerant
tube may be placed first in the recess portion defined in the leg 362. In this state,
when the bracket 363 is closely attached to the leg 362, the refrigerant tube passes
through the hole 365. Then, when the bracket 363 is coupled to the leg 362 using a
coupling member such as a screw, the module support 360 is fixed to the refrigerant
tube.
[0050] Fig. 8 is a perspective of a module support according to a third embodiment.
[0051] Referring to Fig. 8, a module support 360 according to the third embodiment has the
same structure as those of the module supports 360 according to the foregoing embodiments
in that the module support 360 includes a body 361 and a leg 362. However, the module
support 360 according to the third embodiment is different from those according to
the foregoing embodiments in a coupling structure of a refrigerant tube.
[0052] In detail, a plurality of holes 366 pass through the leg 362. The holes 366 pass
from one side surface of the leg 362 toward the other side surface, and the refrigerant
tube of the evaporator 320 passes through the holes 366. In this state, the refrigerant
tube is expanded so that the refrigerant tube is tight in the holes 366. Thus, the
module support 360 is fixed and mounted on the evaporator 320 without being shaken.
[0053] Fig. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 3.
[0054] Referring to Fig. 9, the sensor module 400 is mounted on the body 361 of the module
support 360.
[0055] In detail, a recess portion on which the base 401 of the sensor module 400 is seated
is defined in a bottom surface of the body 361. Thus, when the sensor module 400 is
seated on the recess portion, the sensing part 410 is oriented to the extension direction
of the leg 362. That is, when the defrost sensor assembly 350 is mounted on the evaporator
320, the sensing part 410 emits infrared rays toward a lower side of the evaporator
320.
[0056] In the state where the base 401 is seated on the recess portion of the body 351,
a molding solution is injected into the recess portion to form a waterproof layer
367. In detail, the waterproof layer 367 includes a resin solution. The waterproof
layer 367 may have a thickness enough to expose the sensing part 410 to the outside.
Particularly, the waterproof layer 367 may have a thickness less than a value subtracting
a thickness C of the base 401 from a depth D of the recess portion. This is done for
a reason in which it prevents condensed water generated on top and side surfaces of
the body 361 from flowing into the sensing part 410 along the waterproof layer 367.
[0057] Fig. 10 is a view illustrating a state in which a defrost sensor assembly including
a module support is mounted on an evaporator according to a fourth embodiment.
[0058] Referring to Fig. 10, a module support 370 according to the fourth embodiment has
the same structure as those of the module supports 400 according to the foregoing
embodiments in that a sensor module 400 is mounted on a bottom surface of a module
support 370. However, the module support 360 according to the fourth embodiment is
different from those according to the foregoing embodiments in a configuration and
mounted position of the module support 37.
[0059] In detail, the module support 370 according to the fourth embodiment may be fixed
to a frame 324 of an evaporator 320. The module support 370 includes a stepped portion
on which a sensor module 400 is mounted and fixed parts extending horizontally from
both ends of the stepped portion and respectively fixed to frames 324.
[0060] Fig. 11 is a view illustrating a state in which a defrost sensor assembly including
a module support is mounted on an evaporator according to a fifth embodiment.
[0061] Referring to Fig. 11, the defrost sensor assembly 350 according to an embodiment
may be fixed to a wall of the vaporizing chamber by the module support 380 according
to the fifth embodiment.
[0062] In detail, the wall of the vaporizing chamber 300 includes an inner case of the refrigerator,
i.e., a rear wall of the vaporizing chamber 300 and an evaporator cover 120 partitioning
the vaporizing chamber 300 from the freezing compartment.
[0063] In more detail, the defrost sensor assembly 350 may be disposed between a top surface
of the evaporator 320 and the blower fan 330. The module support 380 may have a housing
shape with a bottom surface opened. The sensor module 400 may be mounted inside the
module support 380 so that a sensing part 410 is oriented downward, like the foregoing
embodiments. Also, a coupling end may be disposed on each of both ends of the module
support 380 so that a coupling member passes through the coupling end and is inserted
into the wall of the vaporizing chamber 300.
[0064] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling a sensor defrost part
according to an embodiment.
[0065] The current embodiment is characterized in that the sensor defrost part is periodically
turned on and off to prevent frosts from being generated on the sensor defrost part.
[0066] Referring to Fig. 12, a control part 500 determines whether the sensor defrost part
430 reaches a preset heating period (S1). Then, when it is determined that the sensor
defrost part 430 reaches the heating period, a power is applied to the sensor defrost
part 430 (S2). When the power is applied to the sensor defrost part 430, the control
part 500 determines whether a power apply time reaches a preset heating time (S3).
When the power apply tine reaches the preset heating time, the control part 500 cuts
off the power applied into the sensor defrost part 430 (S4).
[0067] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling a sensor defrost part
according to another embodiment.
[0068] The current embodiment is characterized in that when a defrosting time arrives to
start an operation of a sensor module 400, a power is applied to a sensor defrost
part 430 to defrost an evaporator 320 and the sensor module 400 at the same time.
[0069] Referring to Fig. 13, a control part 500 determines whether to reach a sensing period
for detecting an amount of frosts attached to an evaporator 320 according to a preset
controlling method (S10). Here, the sensing period may be set so that a next detection
time is decided by a predetermined time interval regardless of an amount of frosts
detected at the present time. Also, the sensing period may be set so that a next detection
time is varied according to an amount of frosts detected at the present time.
[0070] In detail, when the control part 500 determines that the sensing period reaches a
defrost amount detection period by the sensor module 400, a power is applied to the
sensing part 410 and the sensor defrost part 430 (S11) . Here, a power apply time
into the sensor defrost part 430, i.e., the heating time and the sensing time of the
sensing part 410 may be differently set. Thus, although the power is applied into
the sensing part 410 and the sensor defrost part 430 at the same time, the heating
time by the sensor defrost part 430 and the sensing time of the sensing part 410 may
be differently set, and thus, power cut-off times may be different. Hereinafter, a
case in which the heating time of the sensor defrost part 430 is shorter than the
sensing time of the sensing part 410 will be described as an example.
[0071] Thus, the control part 500 determines whether the heating time of the sensor defrost
part 430 elapses (S12). When it is determined that the heating time elapses, the power
applied into the sensor defrost part 430 is cut off (S13). Also, the control part
410 determines whether the sensing time of the sensing part 410 elapses (S14). When
it is determined that the sensing time elapses, the power applied into the sensing
part 410 is cut off (S15).
[0072] According to the above-described controlling method, it may prevent frosts from being
attached to the sensor module 400. Thus, the sensor module 400 may precisely detect
an amount of frosts attached to the surface of the evaporator 320.
[0073] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an evaporator according to another embodiment. Fig.
15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E' of Fig. 14.
[0074] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, the current embodiment is characterized in that a defrost
heater 340 contact along an outer surface of a refrigerant tube 322.
[0075] In detail, a recess portion 321 for receiving the defrost heater 340 is defined in
any position of the outer surface of the refrigerant tube 322. The recess portion
321 is lengthily defined in a length direction of the refrigerant tube 322. As shown
in Figs. 14 and 15, since the most outer surface of the defrost heater 340 contacts
a surface of the refrigerant tube 322, heat transfer efficiency may be significantly
improved when compared to a structure in which the defrost heater 340 is mounted under
an evaporator or at a position spaced forward or backward from the refrigerant tube
322. That is, a contact area between the refrigerant tube 322 and the defrost heater
340 may be increased to improve the heat transfer efficiency due to heat conduction.
Thus, frosts attached to the refrigerant tube 322 may be effectively removed.
[0076] Here, a distance f from a center of the refrigerant tube 322 to an outer surface
of the defrost heater 340 exposed to the outside may be equal to or less than an outer
diameter of the refrigerant tube 322 to maximize the contact area therebetween.
[0077] Also, the present disclosure is not limited to the number of defrost heater. For
example, a plurality of defrost heaters 340 may be mounted on the outer surface of
the refrigerant tube 322. For example, the defrost heaters 340 arranged in two or
more lines may be mounted on positions spaced apart from each other of the outer surface
of the refrigerant tube 322.
[0078] According to the coupling structure of the defrost heater 340 according to the foregoing
embodiments, the defrost heater 340 may be directly attached to the refrigerant tube
322, and the most outer surface of the defrost heater 340 contact the refrigerant
tube 322 to improve defrosting efficiency. In addition, since the defrost heater 340
does not protrude from the outer surface of the refrigerant tube 322, a flow resistance
of cool air passing through the evaporator 320 may be minimized.
[0079] In the refrigerator according to the foregoing embodiments, it may prevent frosts
from being attached to the surface of the defrost sensor to precisely detect an amount
of frosts attached to the surface of the evaporator, thereby improving the operation
and cooling efficiency of the refrigerator.
[0080] Also, the defrosting operation may adequately start at the defrosting requirement
time, and the defrosting operation may be immediately finished when the defrosting
is completed. Thus, power consumption of the refrigerator may be reduced to improve
the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator.
[0081] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative
embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and
embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the scope
of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.
1. A refrigerator comprising:
a main body (10) providing a storage space in which foods are stored at a low temperature;
a vaporizing chamber (300) defined in a side of the main body (10);
an evaporator (320) received in the vaporizing chamber (300);
a sensor module (400) comprising a sensing part (410) received in the vaporizing chamber
(300) to detect an amount of frost attached to the evaporator (320), wherein the sensor
part (410) comprises a light emitting part emitting infrared rays and a light receiving
part receiving the infrared rays which are emitted from the light emitting part and
then reflected by the frost attached to the evaporator (320);
a control part (500) controlling an operation of the sensor module (400); and
a defrost heater (340) removing the frost attached to the evaporator (320),
wherein the sensor module (400) further comprises at least one sensor defrost part
(430) generating heat to melt and remove frost attached to the sensing part (410).
2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, further comprising at least one module support
(360, 370, 380) supporting the sensor module (400).
3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the sensor module (400) further comprises:
a support (420) supporting the sensing part (410); and
a base (401) on which the support (420) and the sensor defrost part (430) are placed.
4. The refrigerator according to claim 3, wherein the module support (360) comprises:
a body (361) having a recess or stepped portion in which the base (401) is placed;
and
at least one leg (362) extending from an edge of the body (361) and fixed to a refrigerant
tube (322) of the evaporator (320).
5. The refrigerator according to claim 4, further comprising a holder (363) protruding
from one surface of the leg (362) to surround the refrigerant tube (322).
6. The refrigerator according to claim 4, further comprising a bracket (364) closely
attached to one surface of the leg (362),
wherein recess portions are defined in the one surface of the leg (362) and one surface
of the bracket (364) closely attached to the one surface of the leg (362), respectively,
and
when the bracket (364) is closely attached to the leg (362), the recess portions are
coupled to each other to define a hole (365) through which the refrigerant tube (322)
passes.
7. The refrigerator according to claim 4, further comprising a hole (366) passing through
both sides surfaces of the leg (362) so that the refrigerant tube (322) passes.
8. The refrigerator according to claim 4, further comprising a waterproof layer (367)
formed by injecting a molding solution into a top surface of the base (401) in a state
where the base (401) is placed on the recess or stepped portion.
9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein the waterproof layer (367) has a thickness
less than a value subtracting a thickness of the base (401) from a thickness of the
recess or stepped portion.
10. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the module supports (360, 370) are
fixed to a refrigerant tube (322) of the evaporator (320) or a frame (324) supporting
the refrigerant tube (322).
11. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein the module support (380) is mounted
on any position corresponding to an upper side of the evaporator (320) on a well defining
the vaporizing chamber (300).
12. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the sensor defrost part (430) comprises
a resistor in which a power is applied to generate heat, and
the sensor defrost part (430) is disposed at a position close to the sensing part.
13. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the defrost heater (340) extends along
a refrigerant tube (322) in a state where the defrost heater (340) contacts the refrigerant
tube (322) of the evaporator (320).
14. The refrigerator according to claim 13, wherein one or plurality of recess portions
(321) in which the defrost heater (340) is received is defined in an outer surface
of the refrigerant tube (322).
15. The refrigerator according to claim 14, wherein a distance (f) from a center of the
refrigerant tube (322) to the outer surface of the defrost heater (340) exposed to
the outside is equal to or less than an outer diameter (F) of the refrigerant tube
(322).
16. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein the sensor defrost part (430) is operated
for a preset time according to a preset period to melt the frosts attached to the
sensing part (410).
17. The refrigerator according to claim 16, wherein an operation period of the sensor
defrost part (430) and an operation period of the sensing part (410) are independent
from each other.
18. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein a power is applied to the sensor defrost
part (430) at an operation time of the sensing part (410).
19. The refrigerator according to claim 18, wherein a heating time of the sensor defrost
part (430) is different from a sensing time of the sensing part (410).
1. Kühlschrank, der Folgendes umfasst:
einen Hauptkörper (10), der einen Vorratsraum bereitstellt, in dem Lebensmittel bei
einer niedrigen Temperatur gelagert werden;
eine Verdampfungskammer (300), die auf einer Seite des Hauptkörpers (10) definiert
ist;
einen Verdampfer (320), der in der Verdampfungskammer (300) untergebracht ist;
ein Sensormodul (400), das ein Messelement (410) umfasst, das in der Verdampfungskammer
(300) untergebracht ist, um eine Menge an Reif zu detektieren, der an dem Verdampfer
(320) haftet, wobei
das Messelement (410) ein Leuchtelement, das Infrarotstrahlen ausstrahlt, und ein
Lichtempfangselement, das die Infrarotstrahlen empfängt, die von dem Leuchtelement
ausgestrahlt und dann an Reif, der an dem Verdampfer (320) haftet, reflektiert werden,
umfasst;
ein Steuerteil (500), das einen Betrieb des Sensormoduls (400) steuert; und
ein Abtauheizelement (340), das den Reif entfernt, der an dem Verdampfer (320) haftet,
wobei das Sensormodul (400) ferner wenigstens ein Sensorabtauelement (430) umfasst,
um Wärme zu erzeugen, um Reif, der an dem Messelement (410) haftet, zu schmelzen und
zu entfernen.
2. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 1, der ferner wenigstens eine Modulhalterung (360, 370,
380) umfasst, die das Sensormodul (400) hält.
3. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 2, wobei das Sensormodul (400) ferner Folgendes umfasst:
eine Halterung (420), die das Messelement (410) hält; und
eine Basis (401), auf der die Halterung (420) und das Sensorabtauelement (430) angeordnet
sind.
4. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 3, wobei die Modulhalterung (360) Folgendes umfasst:
einen Körper (361), der eine Vertiefung oder einen gestuften Abschnitt aufweist, in
dem die Basis (401) angeordnet ist; und
wenigstens ein Bein (362), das sich von einer Kante des Körpers (361) erstreckt und
an einer Kühlmittelleitung (322) des Verdampfers (320) fixiert ist.
5. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 4, der ferner eine Halterung (363) umfasst, die von einer
Oberfläche des Beins (362) so vorsteht, dass sie die Kühlmittelleitung (322) umgibt.
6. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 4, der ferner eine Stütze (364) umfasst, die direkt an einer
Oberfläche des Beins (362) festgemacht ist,
wobei in der einen Oberfläche des Beins (362) und einer Oberfläche der Stütze (364),
die direkt an der einen Oberfläche des Beins (362) befestigt ist, jeweils vertiefte
Abschnitte definiert sind, und
wobei dann, wenn die Stütze (364) direkt an dem Bein (362) befestigt ist, die vertieften
Abschnitte so miteinander gekoppelt sind, dass sie ein Loch (365) definieren, durch
das die Kühlmittelleitung (322) verläuft.
7. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 4, der ferner ein Loch (366) umfasst, das so durch beide
seitliche Oberflächen des Beins (362) verläuft, dass die Kühlmittelleitung (322) hindurch
gelangt.
8. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 4, der ferner eine wasserfeste Schicht (367) umfasst, die
durch Einspritzen einer Spritzgießlösung in eine obere Oberfläche der Basis (401)
in einem Zustand, in dem die Basis (401) auf der Vertiefung oder dem gestuften Abschnitt
angeordnet ist, gebildet wird.
9. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 8, wobei die wasserfeste Schicht (367) eine Dicke aufweist,
die weniger als ein Wert beträgt, der durch Subtraktion einer Dicke der Basis (401)
von einer Dicke der Vertiefung oder des gestuften Abschnitts erhalten wird.
10. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 2, wobei die Modulhalterungen (360, 370) an einer Kühlmittelleitung
(322) des Verdampfers (320) oder an einem Rahmen (324), der die Kühlmittelleitung
(322) hält, fixiert sind.
11. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 2, wobei die Modulhalterung (380) an einer Position, die
einer oberen Seite des Verdampfers (320) an einer Wand, die die Verdampfungskammer
(300) definiert, entspricht, angebracht ist.
12. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Sensorabtauelement (430) einen Widerstand umfasst,
an den eine Spannung angelegt wird, um Wärme zu erzeugen, und
das Sensorabtauelement (430) an einer Position direkt an dem Messelement angeordnet
ist.
13. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Abtauheizelement (340) in einem Zustand, in
dem das Abtauheizelement (340) mit der Kühlmittelleitung (322) des Verdampfers (320)
in Kontakt ist, entlang einer Kühlmittelleitung (322) verläuft.
14. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 13, wobei eine oder mehrere vertiefe Abschnitte (321), in
denen das Abtauheizelement (340) untergebracht ist, in einer äußeren Oberfläche der
Kühlmittelleitung (322) definiert ist.
15. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 14, wobei ein Abstand (f) von einem Mittelpunkt der Kühlmittelleitung
(322) zu einer äußeren Oberfläche des Abtauheizelements (340), das zur Außenseite
freiliegt, gleich groß wie oder kleiner als ein Außendurchmesser (F) der Kühlmittelleitung
(322) ist.
16. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Sensorabtauelement (430) für eine festgelegte
Zeit in Übereinstimmung mit einer festgelegten Zeitspanne betrieben wird, um den Reif,
der an dem Messelement (410) haftet, zu schmelzen.
17. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 16, wobei eine Betriebszeitspanne des Sensorabtauelements
(430) und eine Betriebszeitspanne des Messelements (410) unabhängig voneinander sind.
18. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 1, wobei in einer Betriebszeit des Messelements (410) eine
Spannung an das Sensorabtauelement (430) angelegt wird.
19. Kühlschrank nach Anspruch 18, wobei sich eine Heizzeit des Sensorabtauelements (430)
von einer Messzeit des Messelements (410) unterscheidet.
1. Réfrigérateur comprenant :
un corps principal (10) fournissant un espace de stockage dans lequel les aliments
sont stockés à basse température ;
une chambre de vaporisation (300) définie dans un côté du corps principal (10) ;
un évaporateur (320) reçu dans la chambre de vaporisation (300) ;
un module capteur (400) comprenant une partie de détection (410) reçue dans la chambre
de vaporisation (300) pour détecter une quantité de givre adhérant sur l'évaporateur
(320) ;
dans lequel
la partie de détection (410) comprend une partie émettrice de lumière émettant des
rayons infrarouges et une partie réceptrice de lumière recevant les rayons infrarouges
qui sont émis par la partie émettrice de lumière et ensuite réfléchis par le givre
adhérant sur l'évaporateur (320).
une partie de commande (500) commandant un fonctionnement du module capteur (400)
; et
un élément chauffant de dégivrage (340) enlevant le givre adhérant sur l'évaporateur
(320),
dans lequel le module de capteur (400) comprend en outre au moins une partie de dégivrage
de capteur (430) générant de la chaleur pour faire fondre et enlever le givre adhérant
sur la partie de capteur (410).
2. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre au moins un support de
module (360, 370, 380) supportant le module capteur (400).
3. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le module capteur (400) comprend
en outre :
un support (420) supportant la partie de détection (410) ; et
une base (401) sur laquelle sont placés le support (420) et la partie de dégivrage
de capteur (430).
4. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 3, dans lequel le support de module (360) comprend
:
un corps (361) ayant un évidement ou une partie en gradin dans lequel/dans laquelle
la base (401) est placée ; et
au moins une branche (362) s'étendant à partir d'un bord du corps (361) et fixée sur
un tube réfrigérant (322) de l'évaporateur (320).
5. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre un support (363) qui se
projette depuis une surface de la branche (362) pour entourer le tube réfrigérant
(322).
6. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre un support (364) étroitement
lié à une surface de la branche (362),
dans lequel des parties évidées sont définies dans ladite une surface de la branche
(362) et une surface du support (364) étroitement liées à l'une desdites surfaces
de la branche (362), respectivement, et
lorsque le support (364) est étroitement lié à la branche (362), les parties évidées
sont couplées l'une à l'autre pour définir un trou (365) à travers lequel passe le
tube réfrigérant (322).
7. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre un trou (366) passant
à travers les deux surfaces latérales de la branche (362) de sorte que le tube réfrigérant
(322) passe à travers celui-ci.
8. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre une couche imperméable
(367) formée par injection d'une solution de moulage dans une surface supérieure de
la base (401) dans un état dans lequel la base (401) est placée sur l'évidement ou
la partie en gradin.
9. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 8, dans lequel la couche imperméable (367) a
une épaisseur inférieure à une valeur obtenue en soustrayant une épaisseur de la base
(401) d'une épaisseur de l'évidement ou de la partie en gradin.
10. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 2, dans lequel les supports de module (360, 370)
sont fixés sur un tube de réfrigérant (322) de l'évaporateur (320) ou sur un cadre
(324) supportant le tube de réfrigérant (322).
11. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le support de module (380) est
monté sur une position quelconque correspondant à un côté supérieur de l'évaporateur
(320) sur un puits définissant la chambre de vaporisation (300).
12. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 1, dans lequel la partie de dégivrage de capteur
(430) comprend une résistance dans laquelle une puissance est appliquée pour générer
de la chaleur, et
la partie de dégivrage de capteur (430) est disposée à une position proche de la partie
de détection.
13. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'élément chauffant de dégivrage
(340) s'étend le long d'un tube de réfrigérant (322) dans un état dans lequel l'élément
chauffant de dégivrage (340) est en contact avec le tube de réfrigérant (322) de l'évaporateur
(320).
14. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 13, dans lequel une ou plusieurs parties d'évidement
(321) dans laquelle/lesquelles est reçu l'élément chauffant de dégivrage (340) est/sont
défini(e)s dans une surface extérieure du tube de réfrigérant (322).
15. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 14, dans lequel une distance (f) d'un centre
du tube de réfrigérant (322) à la surface extérieure de l'élément chauffant de dégivrage
(340) exposée vers l'extérieur est égale ou inférieure à un diamètre extérieur (F)
du tube de réfrigérant (322).
16. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 1, dans lequel la partie de dégivrage du capteur
(430) est utilisée pendant une durée prédéfinie selon une période prédéfinie pour
faire fondre le givre adhérant sur la partie de détection (410).
17. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 16, dans lequel une durée de fonctionnement de
la partie de dégivrage du capteur (430) et une durée de fonctionnement de la partie
de détection (410) sont indépendantes l'une de l'autre.
18. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 1, dans lequel un courant est appliqué à la partie
de dégivrage du capteur (430) pendant un temps de fonctionnement de la partie de détection
(410).
19. Réfrigérateur selon la revendication 18, dans lequel un temps de chauffage de la partie
de dégivrage de capteur (430) est différent d'un temps de détection de la partie de
détection (410).