Claims:We claim:

A cooling appliance (100) comprising:
a plurality of compartments (102F, 102R);
a compressor (104);
a control valve (112);
a plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R);
a plurality of fans (124F, 124R); and
a controller unit (126),
the controller unit (126) configured for
selectively cooling the plurality of compartments (102F, 102R) by operating the respective plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R) and the compressor (104) for a pre-determined running time and a pre-determined idle time by actuating the control valve (112) to allow for flow of refrigerant to at least one of the capillaries (114F, 114R) and setting speed of the compressor (104).

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooling appliance (100) is configured to use a by-pass two circuit cycle.

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooling appliance (100) is configured to use a parallel refrigerant cycle.

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the operating time and the idle time are based on predetermined set temperatures achieved in the compartments (102F, 102R).

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control valve (112) is a three way valve.

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the compressor (104) is a variable speed compressor.
The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooling appliance (100) further comprises a plurality of evaporators (110F, 110R), a condenser (106), a first duct (116), a second duct (118), a duct cover (119), an evaporator front cover (120) and an evaporator rear cover (122).

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 7, wherein the plurality of evaporators (110F, 110R) are configured to cool the plurality of compartments (102F, 102R) respectively and an exit of a second evaporator (110R) is in fluid communication with an inlet of a first evaporator (110F); and
the second evaporator (110R) is positioned at a predefined angle (110RA) with respect to a back vertical wall of the refrigerator compartment (102R), where the predefined angle (110RA) is at least 0.6 degree.

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 7, wherein an output of the condenser (106) is in fluid communication with an input of at least one of the capillaries (114F, 114R) using the control valve (112).

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first duct (116) is located at back centre position between the compartments (102F, 102R) and is adapted to allow air flow between the compartments (102F, 102R), where said first duct (116) is adapted to allow air flow from the freezer compartment (102F) to the refrigerator compartment (102R) when the freezer fan (124F) is operating and the refrigerator fan (124R) is off.

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 7, wherein an end of the first capillary (114F) is connected to the control valve (112) and another end of the first capillary (114F) is connected to the first evaporator (110F).

The cooling appliance, as claimed in claim 7, wherein an end of the second capillary (114R) is connected to the control valve (112) and another end of the second capillary (114R) is connected to the second evaporator (110R).
A method for operating a cooling appliance (100), the method comprising:
selectively cooling, by a controller unit (126), a plurality of compartments (102F, 102R) by operating a respective plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R) and a compressor (104) for a pre-determined running time and a pre-determined idle time by actuating a control valve (112) to allow for flow of refrigerant to at least one of the capillaries (114F, 114R) and setting speed of the compressor (104).

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the cooling appliance (100) uses a by-pass two circuit cycle.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the cooling appliance (100) uses a parallel refrigerant cycle.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the operating time and the idle time are based on predetermined set temperatures achieved in the compartments (102F, 102R).

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the control valve (112) is a three way valve.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the compressor (104) is a variable speed compressor.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein a plurality of evaporators (110F, 110R) cool the plurality of compartments (102F, 102R) respectively.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein a first duct (116) is located at back centre position between the compartments (102F, 102R) and allows air flow between the compartments (102F, 102R).

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
directing, by the controller unit (126), the high pressure refrigerant from the compressor (104) is directed to a condenser (106), when cooling in both the compartments (102F, 102R) is required;
directing, by the condenser (106), cool high pressure refrigerant to the control valve (112);
directing, by the control valve (112), the refrigerant to the second evaporator (110R) through second capillary (114R);
directing, by the second fan (124R), air over the second evaporator (110R) and directing cool air to the compartment (102R) through an opening (119a) of a duct cover (119); and
flowing, by the control valve (112), the refrigerant from the second evaporator (110R) to the first evaporator (110F).

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
allowing, by the control valve (112), the refrigerant to flow to the first evaporator (110F) through the first capillary (114F), when cooling in compartment (102F) is only required; and
directing air, by the first fan (124F), over the first evaporator (110F) and directing cool air to the compartment (102F) through openings (120a) of the evaporator front cover (120).

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
determining, by the controller unit (126), if operating temperature of a bottom compartment (102R) is greater than or equal to sum of a pre-set temperature of a refrigerator zone and a pre-set temperature tolerance of a refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment (102R) ON, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (102R) is greater than or equal to the sum of a pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to a difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning ON, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in a top compartment (102F) and a fan (124F) in the top compartment (102F) ON;
turning OFF, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is less than or equal to a difference between a pre-set temperature of a freezer zone and a pre-set temperature tolerance of a freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment and the compressor (104) OFF; and
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) OFF after a pre-defined period of time.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) OFF after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone.
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) OFF; and
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) OFF after a pre-defined period of time.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
checking, by the controller unit (126), if the compressor (104) is ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is not greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF, if the compressor (104) is ON; and
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) OFF after a pre-defined period of time.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment and the fan in the bottom compartment (124R) OFF, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
checking, by the controller unit (126), if the compressor (104) is ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is not greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF, if the compressor (104) is ON; and
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) OFF after a pre-defined period of time.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) ON after a pre-defined period of time;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan (124F) in the top compartment ON, if the operating temperature of the top compartment is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone;
determining, by the controller unit (126), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R);
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF, if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R);
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the top compartment (124F) OFF; and
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) OFF after a pre-defined period of time.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
turning, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) OFF, if the compressor (104) is ON;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillaries of the bottom compartment (114R) OFF, if the capillaries of the bottom compartment (114R) are ON;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the capillaries of the top compartment (114F) OFF, if the capillaries of the top compartment (114F) are ON;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan for the bottom compartment (125F) ON, if the fan of the bottom compartment (125F) is OFF;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan for the top compartment (125R) ON, if the fan of the top compartment (125R) is OFF;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan for the bottom compartment (125F) OFF, after a pre-set time delay (t_TR);
turning, by the controller unit (126), the fan for the top compartment (125R) OFF, after the pre-set time delay (t_TR);
turning, by the controller unit (126), a heater unit ON;
turning, by the controller unit (126), the heater unit OFF, if the temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R);
keeping, by the controller unit (126), the compressor (104) OFF for a pre-set time delay (T_(Defrost_comp));
keeping, by the controller unit (126), the fan for the bottom compartment (125F) and the fan for the top compartment (125R) OFF for a pre-set time delay (T_(Defrost_fan));
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol), wherein T_REF^set is the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone (102R) and T_REF^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone (102R), if the current mode is a RR mode;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol);
starting by the controller unit (126), a RR cycle;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol), of the current mode is a R0 mode;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol), wherein T_(REF_0)^set is the pre-set temperature of the bottom compartment and T_REF^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the bottom compartment;
starting, by the controller unit (126), a R0 cycle;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment to values of (T_(FRZ_0)^set ± T_(FRZ_0)^tol), wherein T_(FRZ_0)^set is the pre-set temperature of the top compartment and T_(FRZ_0)^tol is the pre-set temperature of the top compartment, when the current mode is the 0R mode;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol); and
starting, by the controller unit (126), a 0R cycle.

The method, as claimed in claim 13, wherein the method comprises,
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment to values of (T_FRZ^set ± T_FRZ^tol), wherein T_FRZ^set is the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone (102F) and T_FRZ^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone (102F), if the current mode is FR mode;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol);
starting, by the controller unit (126), a FR cycle;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment to values of (T_FRZ^set ± T_FRZ^tol), if the current mode is F0 mode;
setting, by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol);
starting, by the controller unit (126), a F0 cycle;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol), if the current mode is RR mode;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol);
starting, by the controller unit (126), a RR cycle;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_FRZ^set ± T_FRZ^tol), if the current mode is R0 mode;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol);
starting, by the controller unit (126), a R0 cycle;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_(FRZ_0)^set ± T_(FRZ_0)^tol), if the current mode selected is such that both the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively;
setting , by the controller unit (126), temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol); and
starting a cycle, by the controller unit (126), wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively.

A system performing each of the method claims, as claimed in claims 13-29.
Dated this 21st day of July 2020

Ajai Kumar Jain
For Godrej & Boyce Manufacturing Company Ltd

To,
The Controller of Patents
The Patent Office, Mumbai , Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
The embodiments herein relate to a cooling appliance and a method of operating the cooling appliance such as but not limited to a dual evaporator refrigerator.

BACKGROUND
Generally, a refrigerator is a cooling appliance which is used to cool any of eatables and drinkables placed inside the refrigerator compartments. A conventional refrigerator mainly includes a freezer compartment, a refrigerator compartment, a single evaporator, a single capillary and a single speed compressor. The compartments of the refrigerator are cooled simultaneously for a prolonged time even when one of the compartments has achieved the desired cooling temperature. This results in longer running time of the compressor leading to higher energy consumption.
Therefore, there exists a need for a cooling appliance and a method of operating the cooling appliance, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks.

OBJECTS
The principal object of embodiments herein is to provide a method of operating a cooling appliance such as but not limited to a dual evaporator refrigerator.
Another object of embodiments herein is to provide a cooling appliance, which achieves optimum cooling in the compartments and reduces energy consumption.
Another object of embodiments herein is to provide a cooling appliance, which allows each compartment to be cooled separately.
Another object of embodiments herein is to provide a cooling appliance, which controls cooling of compartments.
These and other objects of embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with following description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 depicts an exploded view of a cooling appliance, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 2 depicts a front view of a portion of a cooling appliance, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of the cooling appliance along the line A-A of fig. 2, where detail B indicates positioning of an evaporator which is located inside a refrigerator compartment, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 4 depicts a schematic diagram of a condenser, a compressor, a control valve, a first capillary and a second capillary of the cooling appliance, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 5 depicts a cooling appliance, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 6 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as freezer and refrigerator compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

Figs. 7a and 7b are flowcharts depicting the process, when both the top and bottom compartments of the cooling appliance act as refrigerator compartments, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 8 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as a refrigerator or a freezer and idle compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 9 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as a refrigerator or a freezer and idle compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Fig. 10 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as an idle compartment and a refrigerator compartment respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
Figs. 11a, 11b and 11c are flowcharts depicting the process, when fans and a heater are operated (while keeping the rest of the system off) in the cooling appliance to raise the temperature of the freezer compartment and setting the respective operating temperature according to selected mode, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and
Figs. 12a, 12b and 12c are flowcharts depicting the process, when mode selected is other than as depicted in FIGs. 11a, 11b and 11c and only respective operating temperatures are set according to selected modes, according to embodiments as disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
The embodiments herein achieve a cooling appliance, which allows each compartment to be cooled separately thereby reducing energy consumption. Further, embodiments herein achieve a method of operating the cooling appliance. Referring now to the drawings Figs 1 through 12c, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
Fig. 1 depicts an exploded view of a cooling appliance (100), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the cooling appliance (100) includes a plurality of compartments (102F, 102R), as shown in fig. 1 and fig. 2), a compressor (104), as shown in fig. 4), a condenser (106), as shown in fig. 4), a plurality of evaporators (110F, 110R), as shown in fig. 1 and fig. 4), a control valve (112), as shown in fig. 4), a plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R), as shown in fig. 4), a first duct (116), as shown in fig. 1 and fig. 3), a second duct (118), a duct cover (119), an evaporator front cover (120), an evaporator rear cover (122), a plurality of fans (124F, 124R), and a controller unit (126).
For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the cooling appliance (100) is considered to be a dual evaporator refrigerator. It is also within the scope of the embodiments herein to consider the cooling appliance (100) as any of a freezer, any other type of refrigerators, temperature regulating systems, chiller and any other cooling appliances, where cooling of any of eatables, drinkables and any other items/articles is required.
In an embodiment, the refrigerant cycle of the cooling appliance (100) is considered to be a by-pass two circuit cycle. In the bypass two circuit cycle, there is a secondary cooling in at least one freezer compartment (102F) when at least one refrigerator compartment (102R) is cooled.
In another embodiment, the refrigerant cycle of the cooling appliance (100) is considered to be a parallel refrigerant cycle. In the parallel refrigerant cycle, both the freezer compartment (102F) and the refrigerant compartment (102R) is cooled independently. In an embodiment, the cooling appliance (100) provides a return path for air flow circulation from the refrigerator compartment (102R) to an evaporator area in the freezer compartment (102F) through the first duct (116).
The plurality of compartments (102F, 102R) includes at least one freezer compartment (102F) and at least one refrigerator compartment (102R). The freezer compartment (102F) is a top compartment. The refrigerator compartment (102R) is a bottom compartment. In an embodiment, the compartments (102F, 102R) are cooled by selectively operating the capillaries (114F, 114R) and the compressor (104) with a predetermined set of running and idle time. The controller unit (126) can selectively operate the capillaries (114F, 114R) and the compressor (104) with a predetermined set of running and idle time. The freezer compartment (102F) and the refrigerator compartment (102R) are provided in fluid communication through the first duct (116) for air circulation there between.
The controller unit (126) can vary the speed of the compressor (104) according to the cooling requirement of the compartments (102F, 102R). The controller unit (126) can actuate the control valve (112) to allow refrigerant flow to either or both of the capillaries (114F, 114R) and accordingly set the speed of the compressor (104). The controller unit (126) can determine the operating and idle time of refrigerant flow based on predetermined set temperatures achieved in the compartments (102F, 102R).
The plurality of evaporators (110F, 110R) includes a first evaporator (110F) and a second evaporator (110R). The first evaporator (110F) is located in the freezer compartment (102F). The first evaporator (110F) is the freezer evaporator. The first evaporator (110F) is adapted to cool the freezer compartment (102F). The second evaporator (110R) is located in the refrigerator compartment (102R). The second evaporator (110R) is the refrigerator evaporator. The second evaporator (110R) is adapted to cool the refrigerator compartment (102R). In an embodiment, the second evaporator (110R) is positioned at a predefined angle (110RA) with respect to a back vertical wall of the refrigerator compartment (102R), as shown in detail B of fig. 3a). For example, the predefined angle (110RA) is at least 0.6 degrees. It is also within the scope of the invention to change the value of the predefined angle (110RA) of the second evaporator (110R) according to the type and configuration of the cooling appliance (100) and also based on the requirement. An exit of the second evaporator (110R) is provided in fluid communication with an inlet of the first evaporator (110F) thereby allowing refrigerant flow from the second evaporator (110R) to the first evaporator (110F). This configuration allows the second evaporator (110R) to be operated along with the first evaporator (110F) through the capillary (114R) only.
The control valve (112) is provided in fluid communication with the condenser (106). The control valve (112) is provided in fluid communication with at least one of the first evaporator (110F) and the second evaporator (110R). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the control valve (112) is considered to be a three way valve. However, it is also within the scope of the embodiments herein to provide any other type of valve without otherwise deterring the intended function of the control valve (112) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings. The control valve (112) provides an output of the condenser (106) in fluid communication with an input of at least one of the capillaries (114F, 114R). The control valve (112) is provided in communication with the controller unit 126.
The plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R) includes a first capillary (114F) and a second capillary (114R). The first capillary (114F) is the freezer capillary. The second capillary (114R) is the refrigerator capillary. One end of the first capillary (114F) is connected to the control valve (112) and another end of the first capillary (114F) is connected to the first evaporator (110F). One end of the second capillary (114R) is connected to the control valve (112) and another end of the second capillary (114R) is connected to the second evaporator (110R).
The first duct (116) is adapted to allow air flow between the compartments (102F, 102R) for air circulation there between thereby reducing energy consumption of the cooling appliance (100). In an embodiment, the first duct (116) is adapted to allow air flow from the freezer compartment (102F) to the refrigerator compartment (102R) when the freezer fan (124F) is operating and the refrigerator fan (124R) is off. The first duct (116) is provided in between the freezer compartment (102F) and the refrigerator (102R). The air between the compartments (102F, 102R) is exchanged (as shown by an up-down arrow in fig. 1) through the first duct (116) depending upon respective condition of air. The first duct (116) reduces the rate of temperature rise of refrigerator compartment (102R) when the second evaporator (110R) is not operating. As a result, the off-cycle duration of the second evaporator (110R) increases which in turn reduces the energy consumption by reducing the run-time of the compressor (104). The first duct (116) is located at back center position between the freezer compartment (102F) and the refrigerator compartment (102R). However, it is also within the scope of the embodiments herein to provide the first duct (116) at any other location without otherwise deterring the intended function of the first duct (116) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
The second duct (118) is provided in the refrigerator compartment (102R), where the second duct (118) is housed by the duct cover (119). The air enters the refrigerator compartment (102R) through openings (119a) of the duct cover (119). Further, the air received in the refrigerator compartment (102R) flows back to the second evaporator (110R) through at least one opening (119b) of the duct cover (119). This air circulation cools the refrigerator compartment (102R). The duct cover (119) is adapted to cover the duct (118).
The evaporator front cover (120) and the evaporator rear cover (122) are adapted to house the first evaporator (110F). The evaporator front cover (120) and the evaporator rear cover (122) are adapted to be accommodated in the freezer compartment (102F). The air enters the freezer compartment (102F) through openings (120a) of the evaporator front cover (120). Further, the air received in the freezer compartment (102F) flows back to the first evaporator (110F) through openings (120b), as shown in fig. 1) of the evaporator front cover (120). This air circulation cools the freezer compartment (102F).
The plurality of fans (124F, 124R) includes a first fan (124F) and a second fan (124R). The first fan (124F) is adapted to circulate air in the freezer compartment (102F). The first fan (124F) is the freezer fan. The second fan (124R) is adapted to circulate air in the refrigerator compartment (102R). The second fan (124R) is the refrigerator fan. The second fan (124R) is adapted to draw return air via openings (119a) of the duct cover (119) thereby cooling the return air by passing the return air over the surface of the second evaporator (110R).
The working of the cooling appliance (100) in conjunction with the by-pass two circuit cycle is as follows. When cooling in both the freezer compartment (102F) and the refrigerator compartment (102R) is required, the high pressure refrigerant from the compressor (104) is directed to the condenser (106). The condenser (106) directs cool high pressure refrigerant to the control valve (112) which in turn directs the refrigerant to the second evaporator (110R) through second capillary (114R). The second fan (124R) directs the air over the second evaporator (110R) and the cool air is directed to the refrigerator compartment (102R) through the opening (119a) of the duct cover (119) thereby cooling the refrigerator compartment (102R). At the same time, the refrigerant from the second evaporator (110R) flows to the first evaporator (110F). Therefore, when the second evaporator (110R) is operated for cooling the refrigerator compartment (102R), there is a secondary cooling in the freezer compartment (102F). This maintains the temperature of the freezer compartment (102F) at lower levels when the first capillary (114F) and the first fan (124F) are not operated. As a result, the off-cycle duration of the first evaporator (110F) increases which in turn reduces the energy consumption by reducing the run time of the compressor (104). The refrigerant from the first evaporator (110F) flows to the compressor (104) through a suction pipe.
When cooling in freezer compartment (102F) is only required, the control valve (112) allows the refrigerant to flow to the first evaporator (110F) through the first capillary (114F) only. The first fan (124F) directs air over the first evaporator (110F) and the cool air is directed to the freezer compartment (102F) through openings (120a) of the evaporator front cover (120) thereby cooling the freezer compartment (102F). Therefore, the first evaporator (110F) is operated in isolation when cooling in freezer compartment (102F) is only required. This optimizes the cycle operation by restricting excess cooling in the refrigerator compartment (102R). As a result, the off-cycle duration of the second evaporator (110R) and the second fan (124R) increases which in turn reduce the energy consumption by reducing the run time of the compressor (104). The refrigerant from the first evaporator (110F) flows to the compressor (104) through the suction pipe.
Hence, the implementation of the by-pass two circuit cycle and the first duct (116) between the compartments (102F, 102R) increases the off-cycle durations of operating the first evaporator (110F) and the second evaporator (110R) respectively thereby reducing the run time of the compressor (104) resulting in reduced energy consumption of cooling appliance (100).
Fig. 5 depicts a cooling appliance (100), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. As depicted, the cooling appliance (100) includes a controller unit 126, a control valve (112), a condenser (106), a compressor (104) and a plurality of capillaries (114F, 114R). In an embodiment, the compartments (102F, 102R) are cooled by selectively operating the capillaries (114F, 114R) and the compressor (104) with a predetermined set of running and idle times. The controller unit (126) can selectively operate the capillaries (114F, 114R) and the compressor (104) with a predetermined set of running and idle times.
The controller unit (126) can vary the speed of the compressor (104) according to the cooling requirement of the compartments (102F, 102R). In an embodiment herein, the compressor (104) can be a variable speed compressor. The controller unit (126) can actuate the control valve (112) to allow refrigerant flow to either or both of the capillaries (114F, 114R) and accordingly set the speed of the compressor (104). The controller unit (126) can determine the operating and idle time of refrigerant flow based on predetermined set temperatures achieved in the compartments (102F, 102R).
FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as freezer and refrigerator compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 602, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) (a refrigerator zone) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). In an embodiment herein, the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) is pre-configured and determined during initial testing. In an embodiment herein, the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol) is pre-configured and determined during initial testing. If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 604, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON. In step 606, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_1)).
After turning the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) ON or when the cooling appliance (100) is operating normally or the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 610, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 612, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF. The controller unit (126) further turns ON the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment (i.e., the freezer (102F)) and the fan in the top compartment (i.e., the freezer (102F)) (124F) ON. In step 614, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_2)). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 608, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally (as in step 606).
After turning the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) OFF or when the cooling appliance (100) is operating normally, in step 616, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) (a freezer zone) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). In an embodiment herein, the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) is pre-configured and determined during initial testing. In an embodiment herein, the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol) is pre-configured and determined during initial testing. If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 618, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment and the compressor (104) OFF. In step 620, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)). After performing step 620, the method proceeds to step 602, hereby completing the FR cycling mode. If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) (a freezer zone) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol) in step 615, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally (as in step 614) . The various actions in the flowchart 600 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIG. 6 may be omitted.
FIGs. 7a and 7b are flowcharts depicting the process, when both the top and bottom compartments of the cooling appliance act as refrigerator compartments, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 702, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 704, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON. In step 706, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_1)). The controller unit (126) further turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_1)).
In step 710, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol) or after step 706. If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 708, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally (as in step 706). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 712, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF. In step 714, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_2)). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 708, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally.
In step 716, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 718, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON.
In step 720, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 708, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally (as in step 718). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 722, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF. In step 724, the controller unit (126) further turns the compressor (104) OFF. In step 726, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)). After performing step 726, the method proceeds to step 702, hereby competing the RR cycling mode. The various actions in the flowchart 700 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIGs. 7a and 7b may be omitted.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as a refrigerator or a freezer and idle compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 802, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 804, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON. In step 806, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_1)). In step 808, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 810, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance (100) normally.
If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is not greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 812, the controller unit (126) checks if the compressor (104) is ON. If the compressor (104) is ON, in step 814, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF. In step 816, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)). After the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) has been turn OFF after the pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)) or if the compressor (104) is not ON or if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), the method continues to step 802, hereby completing the F0/R0 cycling mode.
The various actions in the flowchart 800 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIG. 8 may be omitted.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as a refrigerator or a freezer and idle compartments respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 902, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 904, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON. In step 906, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_1)). The controller unit (126) further turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_1)).
In step 908, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 914, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance normally (as in step 906). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 910, the controller unit (126) turns the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment and the fan in the bottom compartment (124R) OFF. The controller unit (126) further turns the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment ON.
In step 912, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol).
If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is not greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 914, the controller unit (126) checks if the compressor (104) is ON. If the compressor (104) is ON, in step 916, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114F) connected to the evaporator (110F) in the top compartment OFF. In step 918, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)).
If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol) or after turning the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_FRZ_2)), the method continues to step 902, hereby completing the F0/R0 cycling mode.
If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_FRZ) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 916, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance normally (as in step 910).
The various actions in the flowchart 900 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIG. 9 may be omitted.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart depicting the process, when a top compartment and a bottom compartment of the cooling appliance are acting as an idle compartment and a refrigerator compartment respectively, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 1002, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is greater than or equal to the sum of the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 1004, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment ON. In step 1006, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) ON after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_1)).
In step 1008, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol). If the operating temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) is greater than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer (102F) (T_FRZ^tol), in step 1010, the controller unit (126) turns the fan (124F) in the top compartment ON.
In step 1012, the controller unit (126) determines if the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is not less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 1018, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance normally (as in step 1010). If the operating temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) is less than or equal to the difference between the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^set) and the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator (102R) (T_REF^tol), in step 1014, the controller unit (126) turns the compressor (104) and the capillary (114R) connected to the evaporator (110R) in the bottom compartment OFF. In step 1016, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the top compartment (124F) (?FAN?_FRZ) OFF. In step 1028, the controller unit (126) turns the fan of the bottom compartment (124R) (?FAN?_REF) OFF after a pre-defined period of time (T_(FAN_REF_2)). The method then continues to step 1002, hereby completing the 0R cycling mode.
The various actions in the flowchart 1000 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIG. 10 may be omitted.
FIGs. 11a, 11b and 11c are flowcharts depicting the process, when fans and a heater are operated (while keeping the rest of the system off) in the cooling appliance to raise the temperature of the freezer compartment and setting the respective operating temperature according to selected mode, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 1102, the controller unit (126) checks if at least one of the compressor (104), the capillaries of the bottom compartment (114R) or the capillaries of the top compartment (114F) are ON. In step 1104, if at least one the compressor (104), the capillaries of the bottom compartment (114R) or the capillaries of the top compartment (114F) are ON, the controller unit (126) turns them OFF.
In step 1106, the controller unit (126) checks if the fan for the bottom compartment (?FAN?_REF) (125F) or the fan for the top compartment (?FAN?_FRZ) (125R) are OFF. If the fan for the bottom compartment (?FAN?_REF) (125F) or the fan for the top compartment (?FAN?_FRZ) (125R) are OFF, in step 1108, the controller unit (126) turns the fan for the bottom compartment (?FAN?_REF) (125F) and the fan for the top compartment (?FAN?_FRZ) (125R) ON. In step 1110, the controller unit (126) turn the fan for the bottom compartment (?FAN?_REF) (125F) and the fan for the top compartment (?FAN?_FRZ) (125R) OFF after a pre-set time delay (t_TR). In step 1112, the controller unit (126) turns a heater unit (not shown) ON.
In step 1114, the controller unit (126) determines if temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP) (when the heater is ON) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP^set) (when the heater is ON). If temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP) (when the heater is ON) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP^set) (when the heater is ON), in step 1146, the controller unit (126) continues operating the cooling appliance normally (as in step 1112). If the temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP) (when the heater is ON) is greater than or equal to the pre-set temperature of the evaporators (110F, 110R) (T_EVP^set) (when the heater is ON), in step 1116, the controller unit (126) turns the heater (not shown) OFF. In step 1118, the controller unit (126) keeps the compressor (104) OFF for a pre-set time delay (T_(Defrost_comp)). In step 1120, the controller unit (126) keeps the fan for the bottom compartment (?FAN?_REF) (125F) and the fan for the top compartment (?FAN?_FRZ) (125R) OFF for a pre-set time delay (T_(Defrost_fan)).
In step 1122, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments (hereinafter referred to as the RR mode). If the current mode selected is such that both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments, in step 1124, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol), wherein T_REF^set is the pre-set temperature of the refrigerator zone (102R) and T_REF^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the refrigerator zone (102R). In step 1126, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1128, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments (hereinafter referred to as the RR cycle).
In step 1130, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively (hereinafter referred to as the R0 mode). If the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively, in step 1132, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1134, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol), wherein T_(REF_0)^set is the pre-set temperature of the bottom compartment (when the bottom compartment is set to idle) and T_REF^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the bottom compartment (when the bottom compartment is set to idle). In step 1136, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively (hereinafter referred to as the R0 cycle).
In step 1138, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively (hereinafter referred to as the 0R mode). If the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively, in step 1140, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_(FRZ_0)^set ± T_(FRZ_0)^tol), wherein T_(FRZ_0)^set is the pre-set temperature of the top compartment (when the top compartment is set to idle) and T_(FRZ_0)^tol is the pre-set temperature of the top compartment (when the top compartment is set to idle). In step 1142, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1144, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively (hereinafter referred to as the 0R cycle).
The various actions in the flowchart 1100 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIGs. 11a, 11b and 11c may be omitted.
FIGs. 12a, 12b and 12c are flowcharts depicting the process, when mode selected is other than as depicted in FIGs. 11a, 11b and 11c and only respective operating temperatures are set according to selected modes, according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In step 1202, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and refrigerator compartments respectively (hereinafter referred to as the FR mode). If the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and refrigerator compartments respectively, in step 1204, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_FRZ^set ± T_FRZ^tol), wherein T_FRZ^set is the pre-set temperature of the freezer zone (102F) and T_FRZ^tol is the pre-set temperature tolerance of the freezer zone (102F). In step 1206, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1208, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and refrigerator compartments respectively (hereinafter referred to as the FR cycle).
In step 1210, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and idle compartments respectively (hereinafter referred to as the F0 mode). If the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and idle compartments respectively, in step 1212, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_FRZ^set ± T_FRZ^tol). In step 1214, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol). In step 1216, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as freezer and idle compartments respectively (hereinafter referred to as the F0 cycle).
In step 1218, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments (i.e., the RR mode). If the current mode selected is such that both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments, in step 1220, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1222, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1224, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein both the top and bottom compartments are operating as refrigerator compartments (i.e., the RR cycle).
In step 1226, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively (i.e., the R0 mode). If the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively, in step 1228, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1230, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_(REF_0)^set ± T_(REF_0)^tol). In step 1232, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the refrigerator compartment and the idle compartment respectively (i.e., the R0 cycle).
In step 1234, the controller unit (126) checks if the current mode selected is such that the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively. If the current mode selected is such that both the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively, in step 1236, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the top compartment (T_FRZ) to values of (T_(FRZ_0)^set ± T_(FRZ_0)^tol). In step 1238, the controller unit (126) sets the temperature of the bottom compartment (T_REF) to values of (T_REF^set ± T_REF^tol). In step 1240, the controller unit (126) starts a cycle, wherein the top compartment and the bottom compartment are operating as the idle compartment and the refrigerator compartment respectively.
The various actions in the flowchart 1200 may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in FIGs. 12a, 12b and 12c may be omitted.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.