CN103874899B - Cold storage - Google Patents

Abstract

A refrigerator, comprising: a storage room with an opening in the front; a first light emitting part (20a) arranged on the top surface of the storage room; a light detection part (21a); and a recessed part (84) provided on the side of the storage chamber. The first light detection part (21a) is provided in the concave part (84). Thereby, the refrigerator which can estimate the storage state of the storage item inside a refrigerator is provided. By performing control according to the stored state, it is possible to improve freshness retention and prevent excessive cooling, thereby reducing power consumption.

Description

Cold storage

technical field

The present invention relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly to a refrigerator having a device for detecting a storage state inside the refrigerator.

Background technique

In recent household refrigerators, an indirect cooling method in which a fan circulates cold air in the refrigerator is generally used. In conventional refrigerators, the temperature in the refrigerator is maintained at an appropriate temperature by performing temperature adjustment control based on the detection result of the temperature in the refrigerator.

For example, there is a refrigerator provided with a movable cold air ejection device as a refrigerator that keeps the temperature inside the refrigerator uniform (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Fig. 21 is a front view of a refrigerator compartment of a conventional refrigerator.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the movable cold air discharge device 102 installed in the refrigerator compartment 101 supplies cold air to the left and right, thereby achieving uniformity of temperature in the refrigerator.

However, in conventional refrigerators, even if the temperature in the refrigerator can be uniformed, the temperature is estimated by the thermistor in the refrigerator, and the influence of the storage state on the amount and arrangement of stored items such as food, Not considered.

prior art literature

patent documents

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-247608

Contents of the invention

The present invention provides a refrigerator capable of estimating the storage state of storage items inside the refrigerator.

A refrigerator comprising: a storage room having an opening at the front, a first light emitting unit provided on the top surface of the storage room, a first light detecting unit for detecting light irradiated from the first light emitting unit, The recess on the side of the chamber. In addition, the first photodetector is disposed in the concave portion.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2A-2A of Fig. 1 in the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention, when the refrigerator door is opened, as seen from the front.

3 is a front view of a recess in which a main light sensor, a sub light sensor, and a blue LED are arranged according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3 of a concave portion in which a main light sensor, a sub light sensor, and a blue LED are arranged according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is a control block diagram of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the control content of storage state detection in the refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the storage state detection operation by the top surface LEDs according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing characteristics of storage state detection by top LEDs according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the storage state detection operation by the side lower LEDs according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a graph showing characteristics of storage state detection by side lower LEDs according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a graph showing storage state detection characteristics of detection data C obtained by averaging detection data A and detection data B according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the first embodiment of the present invention when an obstacle exists near the photosensor.

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an error caused by an obstacle in the vicinity of the photosensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a graph showing storage state detection characteristics when there is an obstacle near the optical sensor and when there is no obstacle according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a case where a reflector is accommodated near the photosensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of error generation when a reflective object is stored near the optical sensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

17A is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light generated according to the color of an object and the reflectance in the first embodiment of the present invention.

17B is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light generated according to the color of an object and the reflectance in the first embodiment of the present invention.

17C is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light generated according to the color of the object and the reflectance in the first embodiment of the present invention.

18 is a diagram showing the relationship between the influence of errors and the illuminance of the main light sensor when the blue LED is turned on when there is a reflector near the light sensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a graph showing storage state detection characteristics after correction in the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a side sectional view of main parts of the shielding wall of the refrigerator according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is a front view of a refrigerator compartment of a conventional refrigerator.

detailed description

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by these embodiment.

(first embodiment)

Hereinafter, refrigerator 80 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator 80 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator 80 taken along line 2A-2A of FIG. 1 , and FIG. 2B is a refrigerator compartment door 12a of the refrigerator 80. Cross-sectional view viewed from the front in the opened state.

Refrigerator 80 has a heat insulating box as refrigerator main body 11 . The refrigerator main body 11 mainly includes an outer box made of a steel plate, an inner box formed by molding resin such as ABS, and a heat insulating material injected between the outer box and the inner box.

The heat insulation box which is the refrigerator main body 11 is thermally insulated and divided into several storage rooms. Specifically, a refrigerating room 12 is provided at the uppermost portion, and an ice making room 13 and a switching room 14 are arranged side by side at a lower portion of the refrigerating room 12 . Moreover, the freezer compartment 15 is arrange|positioned in the lower part of the ice making compartment 13 and the switching compartment 14, and the vegetable compartment 16 is arrange|positioned in the lowest part.

Insulation doors for separating from outside air are provided in front openings of refrigerator main body 11 in front of each storage chamber. Display part 17 is arranged near the central part of left and right side-splitting refrigerator compartment door 12a, which is the insulating door of refrigerator compartment 12, and has a display unit 17 capable of setting the interior temperature of each compartment, ice making and rapid cooling, etc. The operation unit displays the detection result of the storage state, the operating status of refrigerator 80, and the like.

In the refrigerator compartment 12 , a plurality of storage shelves 18 are provided in order to arrange and store food and the like as stored items. Moreover, the frame part 12b which has a heat insulating material inside and protrudes inward is provided in the surface of the refrigerator compartment door 12a inside. The door storage frame 19 is provided in the frame part 12b.

The interior storage shelf 18 and the door storage shelf 19 are made of a material with a high light transmittance such as glass or transparent resin. The surfaces of the interior storage shelf 18 and the door storage shelf 19 are processed to diffuse light while maintaining a constant transmittance, so that the distribution of brightness in the refrigerator compartment 12 can be adjusted. The transmittance at this time is desirably 50% or more. If the transmittance is lower than this, there will be places where light is difficult to reach, so the detection accuracy of the stored state may decrease.

A storage chamber 40 is provided below the lowest storage shelf 18b located on the lowest level among the plurality of internal storage shelves 18 . The storage chamber 40 is constituted by a drawable storage box. A door that can be opened and closed on the lowest storage shelf 18b may be provided on the front of the storage box.

Storage room 40 is provided close to the right side wall surface when viewed from the side (front) from which the door is opened in refrigerator 80 . At the lower left side of the storage chamber 40, a small item box 81 for storing small items that are frequently taken out is provided. Furthermore, an egg storage container 82 for storing eggs is provided on the top of the small item box 81 , and a water storage tank 41 for supplying water to the ice making compartment 13 is provided on the left side of the small item box 81 .

Among the plurality of door storage shelves 19 , the lowermost door storage shelf 19 b positioned on the lowermost stage protrudes to the back side of the refrigerator compartment 12 than the other door storage shelves 19 .

Refrigerator room 12 is provided with interior lighting 20 for illuminating the interior of the storage room as a storage room to improve the visibility of food and the like as storage items. Interior lighting 20 is arranged on the ceiling, the left wall, and the right wall when viewed from the front in refrigerator 80 .

As a light source of the interior lighting 20, some LEDs, such as top surface LED20a, b, LED20c-f for illumination, and side surface lower LED20g, h, are used. The light sources are arranged in the vertical direction so that LED20c-f for illumination and LED20g of side lower side are arranged on a side wall surface. Thereby, the entirety of refrigerating room 12 long in the height direction can be irradiated without omission.

Top surface LED20a, b is a 1st light emitting part, and side surface lower LED20g, h is a 2nd light emitting part. The top surface LED20a, b is arranged on the side closer to the door than 1/2 of the depth in the warehouse, and it is desirable to be arranged on the side closer to the front end of the uppermost storage shelf 18a as the closest storage shelf 18 in the warehouse. Face straight to the side closer to the door. It is further desirable that the top surface LEDs 20a, b are installed on the top surface above the space α that is closer to the door than the vertical surface that is in contact with the front end of the uppermost storage shelf 18a. The vertical surface where the rear end part of the uppermost door storage frame 19a of the approaching door storage frame 19 abuts is closer to the inner side.

Moreover, top surface LED20a, b is arrange|positioned on the same board|substrate provided in the recessed part 83 provided in the top surface. The recessed part 83 is formed in the inner box which comprises the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 12 by the support part (not shown) fixed by hot-melt adhesive. After mounting the substrate on the support, the concave portion 83 is covered with a cover formed of transparent or translucent resin.

The main light sensor 21a and the sub light sensor 21b which are the light sensor 21 are provided in the lower part of one side surface in a chamber. An illuminance sensor is used as these photosensors 21, and is generally a sensor having the highest sensitivity peak wavelength of 500 to 600 nm. In addition, the peak sensitivity wavelength of the optical sensor 21 may also be in another wavelength band, which can be determined in conjunction with the light emission wavelength of the light source.

The main light sensor 21a is a first light detection unit, and the sub light sensor 21b is a second light detection unit. The main light sensor 21a is installed on the side closer to the door than 1/2 of the depth in the warehouse, and it is desirable to install it on the lead edge that is in contact with the front end of the lowest storage shelf 18b that is the closest storage shelf 18 in the warehouse. Face the side closer to the door. It is further desirable that the main light sensor 21a is installed on the left side wall facing the space β that is closer to the door than the vertical surface that is in contact with the front end of the lowermost storage shelf 18b, and that includes the LEDs 20a and b on the top surface. The vertical side is more inside. Here, the surface (not limited to the left wall surface) on which the main light sensor 21a is provided is the surface on which the side lower LED 20g is provided, and is a surface opposite to the surface on which the side lower LED 20h is provided.

In this way, by arranging the first photodetection part on the inner side of the storage room than the vertical surface including the first light emitting part, based on the illuminance attenuation at the first photodetection part, it is possible to reliably improve the level of the storage shelf in the library. 18. Estimation accuracy of storage state of stored items.

In addition, the main light sensor 21a is arranged on the upper surface of the storage chamber 40, and in this embodiment is arranged above the lowermost storage shelf 18b, preferably on the upper surface of the storage chamber 40 and the uppermost storage shelf 18b. Between the storage racks 18.

The sub photosensor 21b is provided on the door side of the vertical surface in contact with the front end of the lowest storage shelf 18b which is the closest inner storage shelf 18 . It is desirable to install on the left wall surface facing the space γ that is closer to the door than the vertical surface including the top LEDs 20a, b and on the inside of the vertical surface that touches the rear end of the frame portion 12b. In addition, the sub light sensor 21b is disposed above the main light sensor 21a.

The second photodetector is arranged above the first photodetector, thereby reliably correcting the influence of the storage object on the first photodetector, and reliably improving the illuminance based on the first photodetector. Accuracy of estimation of the storage state of the storage items in the amount of attenuation.

In addition, by disposing the second photodetection unit that detects the light irradiated from the second light unit on the side surface where the first photodetection unit is provided, it is possible to monitor the influence of shadows generated by stored objects on the first photodetection unit. With the correction, it is possible to reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the storage state of the storage items based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the first light detection unit.

Furthermore, by disposing the second photodetection unit at a position in front of the vertical plane including the first light emitting unit, it is possible to correct the influence of the shadow caused by the contents of the door storage shelf 19 on the first photodetector unit. Therefore, it is possible to reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the storage state of the storage items based on the illuminance attenuation amount at the first light detection unit.

The irradiation light of the top surface LEDs 20a, b and the side and lower LEDs 20g, h repeats reflection on the wall surface of the storage room and repeated reflection and attenuation by the stored objects. set for measurement. The arithmetic control unit 1 performs calculations using the measured values to estimate the storage state of the storage items. On the basis of this principle, by arranging the sub-photosensor 21b, the storage state can be accurately detected regardless of the arrangement of the storage items (details will be described later).

The detection of an object by the optical sensor 21 generally uses a phenomenon in which the intensity of light is extremely attenuated by interruption, such as a photointerrupter (photointerrupter), to digitally detect the presence of one object, or to use multiple A sensor detects the presence of multiple objects. However, such a structure can only detect the presence or absence of stored objects in a limited place in the storage room, and cannot grasp the storage state of the entire storage room. On the other hand, in the configuration of the present embodiment, by using a small number of light sources and optical sensors 21, it is possible to grasp the storage state of the entire space such as the refrigerator compartment 12 in a simulated manner.

In the system using the photosensor 21 and the light source, when the front of the photosensor 21 or the light source is blocked by storage objects, the detectable light level is extremely reduced, and the rate of change of the light intensity decreases accordingly. Therefore, complex processing is required for detection of the storage state. However, in this embodiment, even if, for example, the refrigerator compartment 12 is filled with storage items, as shown in FIG. Since the space α between the storage shelf 18 and the door storage shelf 19 is low, the possibility of the light source being blocked by the storage items is low.

Next, blue LED22a which is an auxiliary light emitting part is demonstrated. Blue LED 22a is provided on the same left wall surface as the wall surface on which main light sensor 21a and sub light sensor 21b are arranged. The blue LED 22a is installed on the left side wall facing the space β, which is closer to the door than the vertical surface in contact with the front end of the lowermost storage shelf 18b, and closer to the vertical surface including the top LEDs 20a, b. inside.

The blue LED 22a is disposed between the upper surface of the storage chamber 40 and the upper storage shelf 18 above the lowermost storage shelf 18b, and is preferably disposed above the main light sensor 21a and below the sub light sensor 21b.

Next, the attachment structure of the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED22a is demonstrated.

3 is a front view of the recess 84 in which the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b and the blue LED 22a are disposed according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the recess 84 along line 4-4 in FIG. 3 .

In addition, in FIG. 3, illustration of the cover 53 is abbreviate|omitted for convenience of description, and only the outline of the main-body part 53a is shown by the dotted line.

The main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a are arranged on the same substrate 51 and accommodated in a recess 84 provided on the left side wall surface.

In this way, by disposing the first photodetection part in the concave part 84, the first photodetection part as the light sensor 21 does not receive direct light from the first light emitting part as the light source, so it is possible to improve the The estimation accuracy of the storage state of the storage items by the amount of illuminance attenuation.

In addition, by providing the first photodetector and the second photodetector on the same substrate, the distance between the first photodetector and the second photodetector can be kept substantially constant regardless of the state of assembly. Thereby, it is possible to more reliably correct the influence of shadows caused by stored objects on the first photodetector, and it is possible to reliably improve the accuracy of estimating the stored state of stored objects based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the first photodetector.

In the inner case constituting the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment 12, the recessed part 84 is formed so as to protrude toward the heat insulating material side injected between the outer case and the inner case by the support member 50 fixed by hot-melt adhesive. Support member 50 is substantially rectangular (with rounded corners), and is arranged such that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the horizontal plane of refrigerator compartment 12 .

The substrate 51 is a rectangular flat plate, and is an epoxy resin substrate or an insulated metal substrate having good thermal conductivity, on which a circuit pattern (not shown) is formed on one or both surfaces. The main light sensor 21 a is arranged at one end in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 51 , and the sub light sensor 21 b is arranged at the other end.

Blue LED 22a is arranged on the side where main light sensor 21a is arranged. In addition, a female connector 52 a is arranged on the lower portion of the board 51 and above the center in the longitudinal direction so that the connector connection direction is from bottom to top. These electronic components are mounted on the circuit pattern on the substrate 51 by soldering.

The center axes of the light receiving ranges of the main light sensor 21 a and the sub light sensor 21 b and the optical axis of the blue LED 22 a are mounted so as to be perpendicular to the plane of the substrate 51 . Therefore, the central axis of the light-receiving range of main light sensor 21a and sub light sensor 21b and the optical axis of blue LED 22a are respectively arranged so as to be perpendicular to the side wall of refrigerator compartment 12 .

The board|substrate 51 is installed incline with respect to the horizontal plane of the refrigerator compartment 12, and the support member 50 so that the side where the sub photosensor 21b is arrange|positioned is upper than the other side. Therefore, between the supporting member 50 and the substrate 51 , space portions in which the substrate 51 is not arranged are generated in the front lower part and the rear upper part.

In this way, by setting the longitudinal direction of the substrate 51 so that it is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane of the storage chamber, it is possible to reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the storage state of the storage items based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the first photodetection unit, and to realize low-cost and improve the reliability of the light sensor 21.

A male connector 52b having a connection wire 52c is connected to the female connector 52a of the substrate 51 from below. The connection wires 52c are drawn out from the heat insulating material into the support member 50 through the connection wire holes 50a provided in the space portion below the front of the support member 50 . Therefore, even if water infiltrates into the support member 50 or condensation occurs in the support member 50, the water will not accumulate in the female connector 52a and the like along the connection wire 52c, so failures such as poor contact are unlikely to occur. .

The cover 53 includes: a flat main body 53a formed of transparent resin; a plurality of spacers 53b and claws 53c protruding to the heat insulating material side integrally formed with the main body 53a; on the protrusion (not shown) of the support member 50 .

Through-holes are provided in positions corresponding to the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a in the main body portion 53a. Around these through-holes, there are respectively provided a main light sensor blocking wall (not shown), a sub light sensor blocking wall 54 b , and a blue LED blocking wall 54 b protruding to the side of the substrate 51 in a cylindrical shape perpendicular to the substrate 51 . wall 55. The blocking wall 55 for blue LEDs is formed to be higher in height than the blocking wall 54 a for the main light sensor and the blocking wall 54 b for the sub light sensor.

In this way, a blocking wall that blocks light is provided between the first photodetection part or the second photodetection part and the auxiliary light emitting part, thereby preventing the first photodetection part or the second photodetection part from receiving light from the auxiliary light emitting part. Therefore, it is possible to reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the stored state of the stored items on the storage shelf in the warehouse based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the first light detection unit.

In addition, the first photodetection part, the second photodetection part and the auxiliary light emitting part are respectively provided with shielding walls around the light, so that the first photodetection part and the second photodetection part can be more reliably prevented from receiving light from Auxiliary lighting for direct light.

Furthermore, the height of the blocking wall provided around the auxiliary light-emitting part is higher than that of the blocking wall around the first photodetecting part or the second photodetecting part, so that the first photodetecting part and the second photodetecting part can be prevented more reliably. The part receives direct light from the auxiliary lighting part.

The substrate 51 is held by a plurality of pad portions 53 b and claw portions 53 c provided on the main body portion 53 a of the cover 53 . At the time of assembly, the cover 53 is attached to the supporting member 50 after the substrate 51 is attached to the cover 53 in advance. Thus, compared with the case where the support member 50 is attached to the cover 53 after the substrate 51 is attached to the support member 50, the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a are arranged around each of the main light sensors. The positioning of the blocking wall, the blocking wall 54b for the sub-light sensor, and the blocking wall 55 for the blue LED becomes easy, and the deviation is small, so that it can be mounted reliably.

Furthermore, a translucent resinous film 56 is attached to the surface of the main body portion 53 a of the cover 53 inside the storage. Thus, the through hole can be covered at low cost without reducing the detection performance of the main light sensor 21 a and the sub light sensor 21 b and the illuminance of the blue LED 22 a, and can prevent water, dust, etc. from entering the support member 50 . Furthermore, it becomes difficult to see the board|substrate 51 etc. through the main-body part 53a of the cover 53, Therefore Design property improves.

Returning to FIG. 2A , components of the refrigeration cycle, such as a compressor 30 and a desiccator for removing moisture, are housed in a machine compartment formed in the uppermost rear region of the refrigerator compartment 12 .

Fig. 5 is a control block diagram of refrigerator 80 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Refrigerator 80 has door opening/closing detection sensor 3 . The door opening/closing detection sensor 3 is connected to the arithmetic control unit 1 . The arithmetic control unit 1 has a timer 44 and a memory 2 .

The arithmetic control unit 1 is connected to the photosensor 21 including the above-mentioned main photosensor 21a and sub photosensor 21b, the interior lighting 20 including the top LED20a, b and the side lower LED20g, h, and the blue LED22a.

The arithmetic control unit 1 is also connected to a compressor 30 , a cooling fan 31 , and an air volume regulating damper 32 as a cooling system.

On the back side of the freezer compartment 15, a cooling compartment for generating cold air is provided. A cooler and a cooling fan 31 are disposed in the cooling chamber, and the cooling fan 31 blows the cold air cooled by the cooler as a cooling method to the refrigerator compartment 12, the switch compartment 14, the ice making compartment 13, the vegetable compartment 16, and the freezer compartment 15. .

Furthermore, an air volume adjusting damper 32 for adjusting the air volume from the cooling fan 31 is provided in the air passage. In addition, in order to defrost the frost or ice adhering to the cooler and its surroundings, a radiant heater, a drain pan, and a drain tube evaporator are installed.

Refrigerator room 12 is set at a non-freezing temperature as the lower limit for refrigerated storage, which is usually set at 1°C to 5°C, and the lowest vegetable compartment 16 is set at 2°C to 7°C equal to or slightly higher than refrigerator room 12. In addition, the freezer compartment 15 is set in a freezing temperature zone, and is usually set at -22°C to -15°C for cryopreservation, but may also be set at a low temperature of -30°C or -25°C in order to improve the state of cryopreservation. .

The ice making room 13 uses the water sent from the water storage tank in the refrigerating room 12, makes ice by the automatic ice maker installed in the upper part of the room, and stores it in the ice storage container arranged in the lower part of the room.

The switching chamber 14, in addition to being set as a refrigerating temperature zone of 1°C to 5°C, a vegetable temperature zone of 2°C to 7°C, and a freezing temperature zone of -22°C to -15°C, also has Ability to switch between refrigerated and frozen temperature zones to pre-set temperature zones. Switching room 14 is provided in parallel with ice making room 13, is a storage room with an independent door, and has a drawer type door in many cases.

The storage room 40 is set at -1 to 1° C. as a so-called chilled room, or -4.5° C. to -4.5° C. as a so-called partial room, in the same temperature zone as the refrigerator room 12 . 1.5°C temperature zone.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the switching chamber 14 is used as a storage chamber that can be set to a refrigerating temperature zone and a freezing temperature zone, but the refrigerating function may be performed by the refrigerating room 12 and the vegetable room 16, and the freezing function may be performed by the freezing temperature zone. The switching room 14 is in charge of the room 15, and the switching room 14 is a specialized storage room that switches only the intermediate temperature range between refrigeration and freezing. In addition, according to a specific temperature zone, for example, the demand for frozen foods has increased in recent years, and it can also be used as a storage room fixed in the freezing temperature zone.

About the refrigerator 80 comprised as mentioned above, the operation|movement and effect|action are demonstrated below.

In this embodiment, the storage state is detected using top surface LED20a, b and side surface lower LED20g, h in the storage lighting apparatus 20. As shown in FIG. In addition, in the present embodiment, the storage state is detected using the main light sensor 21 a and the sub light sensor 21 b of the light sensors 21 .

Moreover, when it is necessary to further improve the detection accuracy of a storage state, the number of light sources used, such as LED20c-f for illumination, can be increased. In addition, it is also possible to increase the number of optical sensors 21 used.

Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the control content of storage state detection of refrigerator 80 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

First, the storage state detection operation|movement (basic data acquisition operation|movement) by top surface LED20a, b, side lower LED20g, and main light sensor 21a is demonstrated. Since the refrigerator compartment 12 is generally long in the height direction, an example in which the storage state is detected by dividing the refrigerator compartment 12 into two sections up and down will be mainly described.

When the door opening and closing detection sensor 3 detects the opening and closing of the refrigerator compartment door 12a (S101, YES), the arithmetic control unit 1 determines that there is a possibility of taking out and putting in the stored items, and the timer elapses after the refrigerator compartment door 12a is closed. 44 After counting a predetermined time (S102, Yes), start the storage state detection operation.

Here, the reason for counting the predetermined time in step S102 will be described.

First, this is because it is considered that the low-temperature interior storage shelf 18 and the door storage shelf 19 etc. condense minutely, and the transmittance changes, thereby affecting the detection of the storage state. By waiting for a predetermined time, the dew condensation can be eliminated after the predetermined time, and then detection can be performed.

Second, it is considered that when the refrigerator compartment door 12a is opened, the LED is turned on as an illumination LED, and the light emission intensity decreases due to heat generated, thereby affecting the detection of the storage state. The purpose is to wait for a specified time, and then detect after the temperature rise of the LED disappears after the specified time.

In addition, as another method of stabilizing the luminous intensity of the LED, it is possible to temporarily light the LED even after the refrigerator compartment door 12a is closed to generate heat, and start detection after the temperature rise of the LED saturates and reaches a constant value after a predetermined period of time.

When the storage state detection operation is started, the arithmetic control unit 1 first turns on the light sources of the top LEDs 20 a and b arranged on the top wall of the upper partition of the refrigerator 80 ( S103 ).

7 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the storage state detection operation by the top LEDs 20a, b in the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 shows the storage state detection characteristics by the top LEDs 20a, b in this embodiment. diagram.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the case where the foodstuffs 23a are stored on the storage shelf 18 in the storehouse is assumed. The light 24a output from the top LED 20a (below, the light components are indicated by arrows in the drawing. The dotted line indicates that the intensity of the light is attenuating.) is reflected, absorbed and attenuated by the storage object 23a, and goes in other directions like the light 24b, c. diffusion.

The light 24b, c is also repeatedly reflected on the wall surface of the refrigerator compartment 12 or other foods (not shown). The light 24d is also reflected and attenuated by the storage items 23b of the door storage shelf 19, diffuses in other directions like the light 24e, and is repeatedly reflected on the wall surface of the refrigerator compartment 12 or other foods (not shown). After repeated reflection in this way, the distribution of brightness in refrigerator compartment 12 is saturated and stabilized.

In addition, since the irradiation light of LED generally emits light with predetermined irradiation angle, the light 24a, d shown by the arrow in FIG. The same applies to the description of light in the drawings below.

The top surface LED20a, b faces downward, and the main light sensor 21a faces a horizontal direction. That is, since they are not disposed opposite to each other, almost all light components are not directly incident on the main light sensor 21a, but are reflected by the wall surface or the stored object.

An example of the storage state detection characteristic by the main light sensor 21 a at this time is shown in FIG. 8 . As shown in FIG. 8 , it can be seen that the illuminance detected by the main light sensor 21 a decreases as the storage volumes of the storage objects 23 a and b increase. However, when only top surface LED20a, b is turned on, there exists an error between a maximum value and a minimum value. A method of correcting this error will be described later. The arithmetic control unit 1 stores the measured illuminance information as detection data A in the memory 2 ( S104 ).

In addition, in FIG. 8, the vertical axis of the graph is "illuminance", but if relative values such as "relative illuminance" or "illuminance attenuation rate" based on the absence of storage objects 23a, b are used, it is easy to use LEDs as Corresponds to variations in luminous intensity due to initial characteristics. In addition, the "illuminance attenuation amount" based on the time when there are no stored objects 23a, b may be used. The same applies to the way of thinking about "illuminance" below.

Next, arithmetic control unit 1 turns on side lower LED 20g disposed on the left side wall surface of the lower side of refrigerator 80 (S105).

9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the storage state detection operation by the side lower LED 20g according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the storage state detection characteristics by the side lower LED 20g of this embodiment.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , a case in which foodstuffs 23c are stored on storage shelves 18 in the storeroom is assumed. At this time, the light 24f emitted from the lower side LED 20g (hereinafter, the light components are indicated by arrows in FIG. 9 . The dotted line indicates that the luminous intensity is attenuated.) is reflected and attenuated by the storage object 23c, and diffuses in other directions like the light 24g. The light 24g is also repeatedly reflected on the wall surface of the refrigerator compartment 12 or other foods (not shown).

In addition, light 24h is reflected and attenuated by storage object 23d, diffuses in other directions like light 24i, j, and is repeatedly reflected on the wall surface of refrigerator compartment 12 or other foods (not shown). After repeated reflection in this way, the distribution of brightness in refrigerator compartment 12 is saturated and stabilized.

When the side lower LED 20g is turned on, it is detected by the main light sensor 21a. As described above, since detection is performed by combinations that do not face each other, almost all light components are not directly incident on the main light sensor 21a, but are reflected by the wall surface or the stored object. That is, it is possible to detect indirect irradiated light including reflected light at storage objects in the storage chamber.

An example of the storage state detection characteristic by the main light sensor 21 a at this time is shown in FIG. 10 . As shown in FIG. 10 , it can be seen that the illuminance decreases as the storage volumes of the storage objects 23c and d increase. However, when only the lower side LEDs 20g are lit, there is an error between the maximum value and the minimum value, and the correction method for this error will be described later. The arithmetic control unit 1 stores the measured illuminance information as detection data B in the memory 2 ( S106 ).

As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, when the storage objects 23a-d are in the upper partition, the illumination attenuation is relatively large when the top LEDs 20a and b are lit (Fig. 8), and the illumination attenuation is small when the side and lower LEDs 20g and h are lit ( Figure 10).

On the other hand, when the storage objects 23a-d are located in the lower section, the illumination attenuation is small when the top LEDs 20a and b are turned on ( FIG. 8 ), and the illuminance attenuation is large when the side and lower LEDs 20g and h are turned on ( FIG. 10 ).

That is, when the top surface LEDs 20a, b located in the upper partition are lit, the sensitivity to the storage objects 23a-c in the upper partition is high; 23d has higher sensitivity.

Based on the above, the storage state detection characteristics are calculated by combining the measurement results in which the top surface LEDs 20 a and b of the upper section and the side surface lower LEDs 20 g of the lower section turn on sequentially. Specifically, for example, a value obtained by averaging detection data A (characteristic of FIG. 8 ) and detection data B (characteristic of FIG. 10 ) is calculated as detection data C ( S107 ).

FIG. 11 is a graph showing storage state detection characteristics of detection data C obtained by averaging detection data A and detection data B according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Comparing FIG. 11 with FIG. 8 and FIG. 10 , it can be seen that the error is almost completely eliminated, and the storage state can be detected with high accuracy regardless of the displacement of the vertical arrangement of the storage objects 23a-d.

In addition, regarding the arrangement deviation of storage objects 23a-d to the left and right or to the depth and the front, the refrigerating room 12 is divided into two partitions in the same way as the above-mentioned consideration method (in the left and right or the depth and the front direction). are two partitions), it is sufficient to set LEDs or light sensors 21 respectively.

Next, a method of correcting an error that occurs when there is an obstacle in the incident path of the light irradiated to the main light sensor 21 a will be described.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the case where an obstacle exists near the optical sensor 21 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is an example for explaining an error caused by an obstacle existing near the optical sensor 21. 14 is a graph showing the storage state detection characteristics when there is an obstacle in the vicinity of the optical sensor 21 and when there is no obstacle.

In FIG. 12, since the stored object 23e is near the main light sensor 21a, it may become an obstacle which narrows the incident path of light. An example of the storage state detection characteristics (detection data C) by the main light sensor 21 a when an obstacle is present in this way is shown in FIG. 13 .

As shown in FIG. 13 , the maximum value (a) when there is no obstacle attenuates to the maximum value (b) when there is an obstacle, and an error occurs depending on the presence or absence of an obstacle. Similarly, the minimum value (c) without obstacles decays to the minimum value (d) with obstacles, resulting in an error. In order to correct these errors, the storage state of the storage object 23e is detected using the side lower LED 20h provided on the right wall surface and the sub light sensor 21b provided on the left wall surface (obstacle correction processing).

Specifically, the arithmetic control unit 1 turns on the lower side LED 20h ( S108 ), and acquires and records the detection data D of the sub light sensor 21 b ( S109 ). If the storage object 23e has a size that narrows the incident path of the light irradiated to the main light sensor 21a, it will block the light path connecting the side lower LED 20h and the sub light sensor 21b, so the detection data D of the sub light sensor 21b extremely reduced (Fig. 14).

Using this phenomenon, the arithmetic control unit 1 compares the detection data D with the threshold value E ( S110 ). The arithmetic control unit 1 determines that there is an obstacle when the detection data D is equal to or less than the threshold value E (S110, No). At this time, the arithmetic control unit 1 judges the storage state based on the obstacle-presence discrimination characteristic G shown in FIG. 13 ( S111 ). On the other hand, when the detection data D exceeds the threshold value E (S110, YES), the calculation control unit 1 determines that there is no obstacle, and determines the storage state based on the determination characteristic F when there is no obstacle in FIG. 13 (S112).

Next, a method of correcting errors (reflector correction processing) that occurs when there is a storage object 23 f (also referred to as a reflector) with a high reflectance around the main light sensor 21 a will be described.

Generally speaking, stored objects with high reflectance are white or close to white objects. In addition, light diffusivity is low like metal containers, and light-collecting objects can also serve as reflectors.

15 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the case where a reflector is stored near the photosensor 21 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the error when a reflector is stored near the photosensor 21. A plot of the resulting example.

As shown in FIG. 15, when a storage object 23f with a high reflectance is placed in the storage, when the reflectance of the storage object 23f is high, there is also a case where light attenuation is reduced and light is collected without diffusing. There is a tendency that the illuminance around the stored object 23f becomes high. Accordingly, the illuminance around the nearby main light sensor 21a also increases.

As shown in an example of the storage state detection characteristics (detection data C) by the main light sensor 21 a of FIG. 16 , an error occurs due to a difference in reflectance of the storage object 23 f. For example, compared to the characteristic (a) when there is no reflective object, an error J occurs in the characteristic (b) when there is a storage object with a slightly higher reflectance, and in the characteristic (c) when there is a storage object with a high reflectance An error H occurs.

In order to correct this error, the influence of reflection of storage object 23f is detected by blue LED 22a and main light sensor 21a. Generally speaking, objects with high reflectivity are white objects, so it is necessary to recognize white objects.

17A to 17C are graphs showing the relationship between the wavelength of light generated according to the color of an object and the reflectance in the first embodiment of the present invention.

For example, FIG. 17A is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light and the reflectance when a red object is the object. The light in the peak wavelength band of the blue LED 22a having a peak at 400 to 500 nm has a low reflectance on the red object. .

In addition, FIG. 17B is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light and the reflectance when a blue object is the object, and the reflectance of the light in the peak wavelength band of the blue LED 22a having a peak at 400 to 500 nm on the blue object is Also reduced to below 50%.

On the other hand, FIG. 17C is a graph showing the relationship between the wavelength of light and the reflectance when a white object is used as the object. The light in the peak wavelength band of the blue LED 22a having a peak at 400-500nm, because the white object has the full Light in the wavelength band is strongly reflected, so the reflectance is high.

That is, since the light of the peak wavelength band of blue LED22a is hard to be reflected by objects other than white, it can be said that it is suitable for distinguishing a white object.

For example, instead of using blue, it is assumed that light of a red wavelength is used. At this time, as shown in FIG. 17A, the light in the peak wavelength band of the red LED having a peak around 650 nm has a high reflectance on a red object, which is equal to the reflectance on a white object as shown in FIG. 17C. of.

That is, red light is reflected at a certain level even on objects of the same color with low reflectance, so it is difficult to distinguish between white and red objects, and blue (light) is relatively easy to distinguish reflective objects.

In addition, since the reflectance is also affected by the color of the object, for example, if a chromaticity sensor or the like using RGB wavelengths is used, further accurate discrimination can be performed.

In addition, an object with low light diffusivity, such as a metal container, gathers light regardless of the wavelength of the light, and thus can be detected using this characteristic.

FIG. 18 is a graph showing the relationship between the influence of an error and the illuminance of the main light sensor 21a when the blue LED 22a is turned on when there is a reflector near the light sensor 21 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 18 , since there is a correlation between the error due to the reflective object and the output of the main light sensor 21 a when the blue LED 22 a is turned on, the amount of the error is corrected (reflective object correction processing).

Returning to FIG. 6 , the arithmetic control unit 1 turns on the blue LED 22 a ( S113 ), and stores the value detected by the main light sensor 21 a in the memory 2 as detection data K ( S114 ).

Next, the arithmetic control unit 1 compares the set threshold L and the detection data K (S115) as shown in FIG. ).

On the other hand, when the detection data K is larger than the threshold value L (S115, Yes), it is judged that there is an influence of reflection, and based on the error discrimination characteristic M of the reflector 23f, the values of the error J and the error H are estimated and corrected. (S117).

As described above, according to FIG. 6 , FIG. 19 shows the storage amount detection characteristics (after correction) after the basic data acquisition processing, obstacle correction processing, and reflector correction processing are performed by the arithmetic control unit 1 .

FIG. 19 is a graph showing storage state detection characteristics after correction in the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 19 , the error between the corrected maximum value (a) and the corrected minimum value (b) is extremely small, and the storage state can be simulated and estimated accurately ( S118 ).

In addition, in estimating the storage state, thresholds P, Q, R, and S are set, and the storage volume level is judged on a scale of 1 to 5. Specifically, when the corrected illuminance is greater than or equal to the threshold P, it is judged as class 1, when it is between thresholds P to Q, it is judged as class 2, when it is between thresholds Q to R, it is judged as class 3, and when it is between thresholds R to S, it is judged as class 1. 4. When it is below the threshold S, it is judged as level 5.

In addition, for example, when judging the increase in storage volume, when the storage volume before the change is at level 3, it is determined that only the change in illuminance is greater than the difference of "threshold value Q-threshold value R" and shifts to level 4. Otherwise, The case is reserved as level 3. By such processing, even if a detection error of a few percent occurs due to external noise or the like, false detection of a change in the storage state can be prevented. When judging the reduction of the storage amount, the same consideration is performed.

In addition, the intervals of the threshold values P to S in FIG. 19 are wide when the storage amount is small, and narrow when the storage amount is large. This is because the storage volume detection characteristics (after correction) increase the slope when the storage volume is small, and decrease the slope when the storage volume is large, and the intervals between storage levels 1 to 5 become uniform.

In addition, it is also possible to determine the storage amount in a completely simulated row without performing the above-mentioned classification.

In addition, as a method of correcting errors caused by reflectors around the main light sensor 21a, in addition to the blue LED 22a and the main light sensor 21a, it is also possible to use the blue LED 22a and the sub light sensor 21b to affect the reflection of the reflector. Make a judgment.

Calculation and control unit 1, after estimating the storage state in step S118, controls cooling systems such as the compressor 30, the cooling fan 31, and the air volume adjustment damper 32 according to the determination results of the storage volume, the change of the storage volume, or the storage position, etc., to perform the most appropriate operation. Run cool.

In addition, the arithmetic control unit 1 can blink the lamp of the display unit 17 or the like to notify the user while sequentially lighting up the LEDs to detect the storage state. Furthermore, the arithmetic control unit 1 displays the detection result on the display unit 17 after detecting the storage state, and notifies the user.

As described above, in the present embodiment, refrigerator 80 includes top LEDs 20a, b and side lower LEDs 20g, h provided inside refrigerator compartment 12, and main light sensor 21a as an optical sensor for detecting irradiated light. And based on the attenuation amount of illuminance at the main light sensor 21a, the storage state of a storage object is estimated. Accordingly, it is possible to estimate the storage state of the entire refrigerator compartment 12 with improved accuracy in response to variations in the initial characteristics of LEDs as light sources, and the like.

In addition, since the irradiation light from the light source is repeatedly reflected in the storage room, is irradiated to various places in the storage room, and enters the optical sensor 21, the storage state can be detected with a simple structure with a small number of components.

In addition, another main light sensor may be arranged on the wall surface opposite to the wall surface on which the main light sensor 21a is provided, and the illuminance detection may be performed. Thereby, the estimation accuracy of a storage state can be further improved.

In addition, the illuminance attenuation amount measured by the main light sensor 21a is the illuminance in the stored state as opposed to the illuminance in the state where the stored objects 23a to f do not exist in the storage room, and the stored state of the stored objects 23a to f is estimated based on the illuminance. . Thereby, not only the variation (nonuniformity) of LEDs as light sources but also the individual variation (nonuniformity) in the storage room of refrigerator 80 can be dealt with, and the estimation accuracy of the storage states of storage objects 23a to f can be further improved.

In addition, the illuminance attenuation amount in the main light sensor 21a is detected by indirect irradiation light including the reflected light on the storage objects 23a-f in the storage room, and the storage state of the storage objects 23a-f can be used as the illuminance attenuation amount. However, it is easy to perform estimation with high accuracy.

In addition, by arranging the main light sensor 21a in the recess 84 provided on the side surface of the storage room, the main light sensor 21a does not receive direct light from the top surface LEDs 20a, b as light sources, and therefore only detects the light on and including the storage objects 23a to f. The indirect irradiation light of the reflected light can easily and accurately estimate the storage states of the storage objects 23a to f as the illuminance attenuation amount.

In addition, since the main light sensor 21a is provided on the side closer to the refrigerator door 12a than the center of the refrigerator chamber 12 in the depth direction, it is possible to reliably detect food near the entrance, which is easily affected by the inflow of outside air caused by door opening and closing. Storage states of storage objects 23a to f.

Moreover, the main light sensor 21a is provided in the door side rather than the vertical surface which contacts the front edge part of the lowest storage shelf 18b which is the nearest storage shelf in a storehouse. The space above and below the front end of the refrigerator compartment door 12a and the lowermost storage shelf 18b is less likely to be blocked by the storage objects 23a-f, and a stable light path from the light source can be ensured. The amount of illuminance attenuation due to the presence of the objects 23a to f can accurately estimate the storage states of the storage objects 23a to f.

And the main light sensor 21a is arrange|positioned on the back side from the vertical surface containing top surface LED20a, b. Therefore, the storage objects 23a-f on the storage shelf 18 in the warehouse can be detected with higher precision.

In addition, the main light sensor 21a is installed on the upper surface of the storage compartment 40 or above the lowermost storage shelf 18b. Thereby, there is no hindrance when the storage box of the storage chamber 40 is drawn out, or when the water storage tank 41 provided below the storage shelf 18b at the lowest level is drawn out.

And the main light sensor 21a is provided in the lower part of the storage shelf 18 which is one above the storage shelf 18b on the lowest floor. Thereby, there is no hindrance when taking out the storage shelf 18 in the storeroom. In addition, the main light sensor 21a is arranged at a position farthest downward from the top surface LEDs 20a, b within a range that does not hinder the removal of the storage rack 18, the storage box, and the water storage tank 41 in the storage room. Therefore, the storage objects 23a-f on all the storage shelves 18 in the storeroom between the main light sensor 21a and the top surface LED20a, b can be detected.

In addition, as a correction method for correcting the illuminance attenuation amount measured by the combination of the top LEDs 20a, b and the main light sensor 21a according to the storage state, the side surface lower LED 20g and the main light sensor installed on the wall surface on the same side as the main light sensor 21a are used. The illuminance attenuation measured by the combination of 21a. Thereby, it is possible to absorb the deviation factor caused by the deviation of the storage objects 23a to f in the storage room, especially the deviation of the storage state in the vertical direction, and it is possible to improve the storage capacity caused by the storage state of the storage objects 23a to f. Inferred accuracy.

In addition, in the present embodiment, as a correction device for correcting the amount of illuminance attenuation at the main light sensor 21a according to the storage state, there is a storage state for the storage objects 23a to f near the main light sensor 21a, especially the lowest door storage. The sub-light sensor 21b of the device for correcting the storage state of the storage object 23e on the rack 19b. Thereby, the estimation accuracy of the storage amount by the shadow by the storage object 23e with respect to the main light sensor 21a can be improved reliably.

In addition, in order to correct the influence of the shadow produced by the stored objects on the main light sensor 21a, it is preferable that the sub light sensor 21b is arranged on the same side as the main light sensor 21a, and is arranged within 120mm around the main light sensor 21a.

In addition, by arranging the sub-light sensor 21b in the recess 84 provided on the side surface of the storage room, the sub-light sensor 21b does not receive direct light from the side lower LED 20g as a light source, and therefore only detects reflections from the storage objects 23a to f. The indirect irradiation light of light can accurately correct the influence of the storage objects 23a to f.

In addition, the sub light sensor 21b is arranged above the main light sensor 21a. Therefore, the sub-light sensor 21b is located between the top LEDs 20a, b, the side lower LEDs 20g, and the main light sensor 21a, and can accurately correct the influence of shadows on the storage objects 23a-f on the main light sensor 21a.

In addition, in order to correct the influence of storage items 23d such as bottles with a height of about 190 to 230mm that are likely to be stored in the lowest door storage rack 19b, it is preferable that the sub-light sensor 21b is disposed at a distance from the lowest door storage rack 19b. The height of the bottom surface is 130mm ~ 170mm.

Moreover, the sub photosensor 21b is arrange|positioned on the door side rather than the vertical surface which contacts the front edge part of the lowest storage shelf 18b which is the nearest storage shelf in a storehouse. Therefore, the influence of the storage objects 23a-f on the door storage rack 19 can be corrected accurately. Furthermore, since the sub-light sensor 21b is provided in the region γ further in front of the vertical surface including the top surface LEDs 20a, b and further back than the vertical surface in contact with the rear end of the frame portion 12b, it is possible to The influence of the storage objects 23d on the lowest door storage shelf 19b is corrected with high precision.

In addition, in the present embodiment, as a correction device for correcting the amount of illuminance attenuation at the main light sensor 21a in accordance with the storage state, there is provided a blue LED 22a of an auxiliary light emitting portion, which is based on the reflectance of the storage objects 23a to f in the storage room. The means for correction, that is, the LEDs 20 a and b on the top surface and the LED 20 g on the lower side of the side emit light in different colors. Thereby, the estimation accuracy of the storage amount attributable to the reflectivity of the storage objects 23a-f can be improved reliably. In particular, by the main light sensor 21a detecting the reflected light of the blue light from the blue LED 22a serving as the auxiliary light emitting unit on the storage objects 23a to f, it is possible to reliably detect the light that affects the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a. The existence of the storage objects 23a to f with high reflectance can reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the storage volume of the main light sensor 21a.

In this way, by providing the auxiliary light-emitting unit that emits light in a color different from that of the first light-emitting unit, it is possible to reliably improve the estimation accuracy of the storage volume due to the reflectance of the storage objects 23a to f, and to improve Accuracy of estimation of storage states of storage objects 23a to f in terms of illuminance attenuation at the photodetection unit.

In judging the influence of reflection of the storage items 23a to f that affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a, it is preferable that the blue LED 22a be arranged within 120mm around the main light sensor 21a on the same side as the main light sensor 21a.

Moreover, by arranging blue LED22a in the recessed part 84 provided in the side surface of a storage room, main light sensor 21a does not receive the direct light from blue LED22a which is a light source. Thereby, the main light sensor 21a can detect only the indirect irradiation light including the reflected light on the storage objects 23a-f, and can reliably determine the reflection influence of the storage objects 23a-f which affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a.

Moreover, the main light sensor 21a does not receive the direct light from blue LED22a which is a light source by making the center direction of the optical axis of blue LED22a perpendicular|vertical with respect to the side surface of a storage room. Thereby, the main light sensor 21a can detect only the indirect irradiation light including the reflected light on the storage objects 23a-f, and can reliably determine the reflection influence of the storage objects 23a-f which affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a.

Moreover, the central direction of the optical axis of blue LED22a and the central axis of the light receiving range of the light detection part of the main light sensor 21a are comprised so that they may not intersect in a storage room. Thereby, the main light sensor 21a does not receive the direct light from the blue LED22a which is a light source. Thereby, the main light sensor 21a can detect only the indirect irradiation light including the reflected light on the storage objects 23a-f, and can reliably determine the reflection influence of the storage objects 23a-f which affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a.

In addition, the blue LED 22a is provided between the lowermost storage shelf 18b and the upper storage shelf 18 above the lowermost storage shelf 18b. Accordingly, it is possible to reliably determine the influence of the reflection of the stored objects 23d on the lowest storage shelf 18b that affects the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a. Furthermore, since the blue LED 22a is provided above the main light sensor 21a, even when a plurality of storage objects 23a-f with high reflectance are stacked on the lowest storage shelf 18b, the influence of their reflection can be reliably determined.

Moreover, blue LED22a is arrange|positioned in the back rather than the vertical surface containing top surface LED20a, b. Therefore, it is possible to accurately determine the influence of the reflection of the storage items 23a to f on the storage shelves 18 in the storeroom, which is highly likely to affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a.

And blue LED22a is arrange|positioned at the door side rather than the vertical surface which contacts the front end part of the lowest storage shelf 18b. Therefore, among the storage items 23a to f on the storage shelf 18, the storage item 23a on the front side of the storage shelf 18 that is likely to affect the illuminance around the main light sensor 21a can be determined with high accuracy. The reflection effect of ~f.

Moreover, the main light sensor 21a and the sub light sensor 21b are arrange|positioned below rather than top surface LED20a, b which is a light source, and side surface lower LED20g. This can reduce the influence of dew condensation on the optical sensor 21 due to the inflow of outside air accompanying the door opening and closing, and thus the storage states of the storage objects 23a to f can be estimated with high accuracy based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the optical sensor 21 .

Moreover, among the light sources used for storage state detection, 20 g of side lower LEDs are used also as the interior lighting 20. Therefore, the storage state can be detected with a simple structure without providing a new light source.

In addition, in this embodiment, the main light sensor 21 a and the sub light sensor 21 b are mounted on the same substrate 51 . Thus, the distance between the main light sensor 21a and the sub light sensor 21b can be kept substantially constant regardless of the assembly state, so the storage state correction of the storage objects 23a to f by the sub light sensor 21b can be performed with high precision.

In addition, the main light sensor 21 a and the blue LED 22 a are mounted on the same substrate 51 . As a result, the distance between the main light sensor 21a and the blue LED 22a can be kept approximately constant regardless of the assembled state, so that the blue LED 22a can accurately determine the influence of reflection on the storage objects 23a to f with high reflectance. .

In addition, at least two or all of the main light sensor 21 a , the sub light sensor 21 b , and the blue LED 22 a are mounted on the same substrate 51 . Thereby, the optical sensor 21 and the auxiliary light emitting unit can be provided at low cost, and the positions of the respective components can be reliably identified. Thereby, the accuracy of correcting the storage states of the storage objects 23a to f based on the amount of illuminance attenuation at the main light sensor 21a can be improved. In addition, at the time of assembly, the positional alignment of the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a with the through hole of the cover 53 can be easily performed. Furthermore, since the blue LED 22a is provided between the main light sensor 21a and the sub light sensor 21b, all components can be easily mounted on the same board|substrate 51 by arranging the light sensor 21 at both ends.

In addition, in the present embodiment, a blocking wall is provided around each of the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a. Thereby, the light of blue LED22a can be prevented reliably from entering the main light sensor 21a and the sub light sensor 21b directly in the support member 50. FIG. In addition, the alignment of the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a with the through-hole of the cover 53 can be performed more easily at the time of mounting.

Moreover, when a blocking wall is provided around any one of the main light sensor 21a and the blue LED 22a, it is possible to prevent the light of the blue LED 22a from directly entering the main light sensor 21a in the support member 50 .

Moreover, when a blocking wall is provided around any one of the sub-photosensor 21b and the blue LED 22a, it is possible to prevent the light of the blue LED 22a from directly entering the sub-photosensor 21b in the support member 50 .

Furthermore, since the blocking wall 55 for blue LED is formed to be higher than the blocking wall 54a for the main light sensor or the blocking wall 54b for the sub light sensor, it is possible to reliably prevent the light from the blue LED 22a from leaking into the supporting member 50 . .

Furthermore, the blocking wall has a cylindrical shape perpendicular to the substrate 51 . Thereby, the light receiving range of the optical sensor 21 can be concentrated by the shielding wall, or the light diffusion range of the auxiliary light emitting unit can be concentrated. Thereby, the light receiving sensitivity of the optical sensor 21 can be improved, and the storage objects 23a-f in a specific range can be reliably detected. Furthermore, the through-hole provided in the cover 53 can be reduced in size, thereby improving designability.

In addition, in this embodiment, the board|substrate 51 is installed so that it may incline with respect to the horizontal plane of a storage chamber. Thereby, the area of the substrate 51 can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced due to the reduction of materials used. In addition, when the substrate 51 is dewed, moisture can be moved to the lower end of the substrate 51 and removed as quickly as possible. Thereby, it does not become a cause of failure, such as insulation failure.

(Second Embodiment)

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Fig. 20 is a main part sectional view of the blocking wall of refrigerator 80 according to the second embodiment of the present invention seen from the side.

In this embodiment, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same configuration, operation, and effect will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 20, in the embodiment of the present invention, the main light sensor blocking wall (not shown) provided around the respective through holes of the main light sensor 21a, the sub light sensor 21b, and the blue LED 22a of the main body 53a ), the blocking wall 64b for the sub-light sensor, and the blocking wall 65 for the blue LED are in the shape of a truncated cone that expands in a conical shape from the substrate 51 to the cover 53 . Therefore, even if the cover 53 is provided, the light receiving range of the optical sensor 21 will not be concentrated by the cover 53, or the light diffusion range of the auxiliary light emitting unit will not be concentrated by the cover 53, so that a wide range of stored items can be detected.

Industrial availability

As described above, according to the refrigerator 80 described above, it is possible to improve the estimation accuracy of the storage state of the storage items based on the illuminance attenuation amount at the optical sensor. By performing control according to the stored state, it is possible to improve freshness retention and prevent excessive cooling, thereby reducing power consumption. Thereby, it is possible to install a storage amount detection function in a household or commercial refrigerator, and use the result to control switching operation modes such as power-saving operation, which is useful.

Symbol Description

1 operation control unit

2 memory

3 door opening and closing detection sensors

11 The main body of the cold storage

12 cold room

12a Refrigerator door

12b frame

13 ice room

14 switch room

15 freezer

16 vegetable room

17 Display

18 Storage racks in the library

18a top storage rack

18b bottom shelf

19 door storage rack

19a Top Door Storage Rack

19b bottom door storage rack

20 library lighting

20a, 20b Top LEDs

20c～f LEDs for lighting

20g, 20h LED below the side

21 light sensor

21a main light sensor

21b Secondary light sensor

21d～21q light sensor

22a blue LED

23a～h Storage

24a~j light

30 compressors

31 cooling fan

32 air volume adjustment damper

40 storage room

41 water storage tank

44 timer

50 supporting parts

50a Hole for connecting wires

51 substrate

52a female connector

52b male connector

52c connecting wire

53 covers

53a main body

53b Pad

53c claw

Blocking walls for 54b and 64b sub-photosensors

55, 65 blue LED with blocking wall,

56 film

80 cold storage

81 small item boxes

82 egg storage container

83, 84 recessed part

Claims (6)

1. A refrigerator, characterized in that, comprising: a storage room having an opening at the front; a first light-emitting portion disposed on the top surface of the storage chamber; a first light detecting section that detects light irradiated from the first light emitting section; and a recess provided on the side of the storage chamber, the first photodetector is disposed in the recess, The first photodetection unit is provided on a rear side of the storage chamber relative to a vertical plane including the first light emitting unit. 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: a second light emitting part provided on the side surface of the storage chamber; and a second photodetector for detecting light irradiated from the second light emitter, The second photodetector is provided on the side surface on which the first photodetector is provided. 3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second photodetector is disposed above the first photodetector. 4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second photodetection unit is provided at a position forward of a vertical plane including the first light emitting unit. 5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first photodetector and the second photodetector are disposed on the same substrate. 6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The board is installed such that its longitudinal direction is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane of the storage chamber.