JP7527085B2 - Cooling device and cooling control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a cooling device and a cooling control method.

The refrigerator (cooling device) described in Patent Document 1 includes an insulated box, a cooling unit, a door, and a control unit. The insulated box has a storage space inside. The insulated box has multiple shelves. Items to be stored are placed on each of the multiple shelves. The cooling unit cools the storage space. The door opens or closes an opening to the storage space.

JP 2015-158307 A

However, with the cooling device described in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to control the cooling of a specific area of the storage space.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to provide a cooling device and a cooling control method that can easily control the cooling conditions of a specific area of a storage space, such as a storage space.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the cooling device includes a storage chamber, a cooling unit, a display unit, an operation detection unit, and a cooling control unit. The storage chamber covers a storage space that contains an object. The cooling unit cools the storage space. The display unit covers at least a portion of the storage space, and switches between a first display state in which light is transmitted from the storage space and a second display state in which the light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state. The operation detection unit detects an operation position that is a position where an operation is performed on an area of the display unit that is in the first display state. The cooling control unit controls the cooling unit so that the cooling conditions of a predetermined area of the storage space that corresponds to the operation position are different from the cooling conditions of an area of the storage space that is different from the predetermined area.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the cooling control method includes a cooling step, a display step, a detection step, and a control step of a cooling unit. In the cooling step, the cooling unit cools a storage space that stores an object. In the display step, the display state is switched between a first display state in which light is transmitted from the storage space and a second display state in which the light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state. In the detection step, an operation position for an area in the first display state is detected. In the control step of the cooling unit, the cooling control unit controls the cooling unit so that the cooling condition of a predetermined area of the storage space corresponding to the operation position is different from the cooling condition of an area of the storage space that is different from the predetermined area.

The cooling device and cooling control method of the present invention make it easy to control the cooling conditions in a specific area of the storage space.

1 is a diagram showing a cooling device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling device of FIG. 1 . 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling device of FIG. 1 as viewed from a third side wall side. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of an adjustment member according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a view of the adjustment member shown in FIG. 4 from a different direction. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is another diagram showing the display unit according to the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a control unit according to the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing a part of a cooling process executed by a control unit according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing still another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a control unit of a cooling device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display unit according to the second embodiment. 11 is a diagram showing a part of a cooling process executed by a control unit of a cooling device according to a second embodiment. FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit of the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing still another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit of the second embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in the drawings, the same or corresponding parts will be given the same reference symbols and descriptions will not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
First, a cooling device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 shows the cooling device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a schematic cross-section of the cooling device 100 of Fig. 1. The cooling device 100 includes a main body 2, a first refrigeration chamber 3, and a second refrigeration chamber 4. The cooling device 100 is, for example, a refrigerator. The cooling device 100 may also be, for example, a combination of a refrigerator and a freezer. The cooling device 100 may also be for home or commercial use.

The main body 2 has a box shape with a portion open. The main body 2 has a heat insulating material. The heat insulating material is, for example, a foam heat insulating material. The heat insulating material prevents the temperature outside the cooling device 100 from being transmitted to the inside of the main body 2. The heat insulating material also prevents the air inside the cooling device 100 from being transmitted to the outside of the cooling device 100.

The main body 2 has a bottom wall 21, a first side wall 22, a second side wall 23, a third side wall 24, and a top wall 25. The main body 2 also has a space 26 surrounded by the bottom wall 21, the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, the third side wall 24, and the top wall 25.

The bottom wall 21 supports the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, and the third side wall 24. The bottom wall 21 is located closer to the first direction D1 than the top wall 25. The first direction D1 indicates the direction from the top wall 25 to the bottom wall 21. The top wall 25 is supported by the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, and the third side wall 24. The top wall 25 is located closer to the second direction D2 than the bottom wall 21. The second direction D2 indicates the opposite direction to the first direction D1.

The first side wall 22 to the third side wall 24 extend from the bottom wall 21 to the top wall 25. The first side wall 22 is located closer to the third direction D3 than the second side wall 23. The third direction D3 indicates the direction from the second side wall 23 to the first side wall 22. The second side wall 23 is located closer to the fourth direction D4 than the first side wall 22. The fourth direction D4 indicates the opposite direction to the third direction D3. The first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23 face each other. The third side wall 24 is located between the first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23. The third side wall 24 is located closer to the fifth direction D5 than the opening of the main body 2. The fifth direction D5 indicates the direction from the opening of the main body 2 to the third side wall 24. The sixth direction D6 indicates the opposite direction to the fifth direction D5. The third side wall 24 faces the opening of the main body 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the main body 2 further includes a first insulating wall 27. The first insulating wall 27 suppresses the transfer of heat. Specifically, the first insulating wall 27 suppresses the transfer of heat from the first refrigerator chamber 3 to the second refrigerator chamber 4. Furthermore, the first insulating wall 27 suppresses the transfer of heat from the second refrigerator chamber 4 to the first refrigerator chamber 3.

The first insulating wall 27 also divides the space 26. That is, the first insulating wall 27 divides the space 26 into a first storage space 26A and a second storage space 26B. The first storage space 26A corresponds to the first refrigerator compartment 3. An object OB is stored in the first storage space 26A. The first storage space 26A is an example of a "storage space". The second storage space 26B corresponds to the second refrigerator compartment 4. An object OB is stored in the second storage space 26B. The second storage space 26B is an example of a "storage space".

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first refrigerator chamber 3 covers the first storage space 26A. Specifically, the first refrigerator chamber 3 covers the first storage space 26A that stores an object. The object OB stored in the first storage space 26A of the first refrigerator chamber 3 is cooled. For example, in the first refrigerator chamber 3, the object OB is cooled to a temperature of 1 degree or higher. The object OB is, for example, food or drink. The first refrigerator chamber 3 is located closer to the second direction D2 than the second refrigerator chamber 4. The first refrigerator chamber 3 corresponds to an example of a "storage chamber".

The second refrigerator chamber 4 covers the second storage space 26B. Specifically, the second refrigerator chamber 4 covers the second storage space 26B that stores an object. The object OB stored in the second storage space 26B of the second refrigerator chamber 4 is cooled. For example, in the second refrigerator chamber 4, the object OB is cooled to a temperature of 1 degree or higher. The object OB is, for example, vegetables. The second refrigerator chamber 4 is a so-called vegetable chamber. The second refrigerator chamber 4 is located closer to the first direction D1 than the first refrigerator chamber 3. Note that in the second refrigerator chamber 4, the object may be cooled to a temperature of 0 degrees or lower. When the object is cooled to a temperature of 0 degrees or lower, the second refrigerator chamber 4 is a so-called freezer. The second refrigerator chamber 4 corresponds to an example of a "storage chamber".

The first refrigerator compartment 3 has a first door 31 and a first storage section 32.

The first storage section 32 stores the object OB in the first storage space 26A. The first storage section 32 has an opening 321. The first storage section 32 is box-shaped. The first storage section 32 corresponds to an example of a "storage section". The first storage section 32 has a partition plate 311 and a chilled chamber 310. The chilled chamber 310 stores the object OB. The temperature of the internal space of the chilled chamber 310 is lower than the temperature outside the chilled chamber 310 in the first storage space 26A. The chilled chamber 310 corresponds to an example of a "mounting section".

The partition plate 311 divides the first storage space 26A. Specifically, the partition plate 311 divides the first storage space 26A into at least two spaces. The partition plate 311 that divides the first storage space 26A is used as a shelf. The partition plate 311 is capable of placing an object OB thereon. In other words, the object OB is placed on the partition plate 311. The object OB is, for example, an apple. The object OB is, for example, a beverage sealed in a bottle. The partition plate 311 corresponds to an example of a "placing portion."

The first storage section 32 also has a plurality of partition plates 311. The plurality of partition plates 311 divide the first storage space 26A into a plurality of sections. The plurality of partition plates 311 include a first partition plate 311A, a second partition plate 311B, a third partition plate 311C, and a fourth partition plate 311D. The first partition plate 311A is disposed at a position closest to the top wall 25. The first partition plate 311A corresponds to an example of a "first placement section". The second partition plate 311B is positioned closer to the first direction D1 than the first partition plate 311A. The second partition plate 311B is positioned between the first partition plate 311A and the third partition plate 311C. The second partition plate 311B corresponds to an example of a "second placement section". The third partition plate 311C is located closer to the first direction D1 than the second partition plate 311B. The third partition plate 311C is located between the second partition plate 311B and the fourth partition plate 311D. The third partition plate 311C corresponds to an example of a "second placement section". The fourth partition plate 311D is located closer to the first direction D1 than the third partition plate 311C. The fourth partition plate 311D is located closest to the first insulating wall 27. The chilled chamber 310 is located between the fourth partition plate 311D and the first insulating wall 27. The fourth partition plate 311D corresponds to an example of a "second placement section".

The first door 31 can open and close the first storage section 32. Specifically, the first door 31 opens and closes the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. The first door 31 corresponds to an example of a "door section."

The first door 31 rotates about a rotation axis extending along the first direction D1. The first door 31 rotates about the rotation axis to open and close the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. When the first door 31 is rotated in a direction away from the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the first door 31 opens the opening 321. When the first door 31 is rotated in a direction approaching the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the first door 31 closes the opening 321. The first door 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member.

As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the first door 31 has a frame 301 and a display unit 80. The frame 301 supports the display unit 80. The display unit 80 displays an image. The display unit 80 covers at least a portion of the space 26. For example, the display unit 80 covers more than half of the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. For example, the display unit 80 covers "more than 80%" of the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. In other words, the display unit 80 and the frame 301 open and close the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. In other words, the display unit 80 constitutes the main body of the first door 31.

As shown in FIG. 2, the second refrigerator compartment 4 has a drawer body 41 and a second storage section 42. The second storage section 42 stores a part of the drawer body 41. The second storage section 42 is an example of a "storage section". The second storage section 42 has an opening 421. The second storage section 42 is box-shaped. The drawer body 41 can be freely pulled out and pushed into the second storage section 42. The drawer body 41 has a second door 411, a storage case 412, and a sliding member (not shown).

The second door 411 can open and close the opening 421 of the second storage section 42. When the drawer body 41 is pulled out from the second storage section 42, the opening 421 of the second door 411 is open. When the drawer body 41 is pushed into the second storage section 42, the opening 421 of the second door 411 is closed. The second door 411 is a substantially rectangular plate-like member. The second door 411 is, for example, a front panel. The second door 411 corresponds to an example of a "door section."

An object OB is stored in the storage case 412. The object OB stored in the storage case 412 is, for example, a cabbage. The object OB is, for example, a radish. The storage case 412 is, for example, a resin box. The storage case 412 is disposed on the rear surface of the second door 411. The drawer body 41 is separable from the second storage section 42. When the drawer body 41 is pulled out, the storage case 412 is pulled out from within the second storage section 42. When the drawer body 41 is pushed in, the storage case 412 is stored in the second storage section 42.

The slide member (not shown) guides the drawer body 41. For example, the slide member (not shown) guides the drawer body 41 in a direction in which the storage case 412 of the drawer body 41 is pulled out from inside the second storage section 42 to the outside. Also, for example, the slide member (not shown) guides the drawer body 41 in a direction in which the storage case 412 of the drawer body 41 is pushed from outside the second storage section 42 into the second storage section 42.

Next, the cooling device 100 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 2 and 3. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling device 100 of Fig. 1 as viewed from the third side wall 24 side. As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the cooling device 100 further includes a cooling unit 6 and an ion generating unit 9.

The cooling unit 6 sends out cold air to cool the inside of storage compartments such as the first refrigerator compartment 3 and the second refrigerator compartment 4. Specifically, based on the cooling conditions, the cooling unit 6 cools at least one of the first storage space 26A of the first refrigerator compartment 3 and the second storage space 26B of the second refrigerator compartment 4. The cooling conditions include at least one of the air volume of the cooling unit 6 and the temperature of the cold air sent out by the cooling unit 6.

As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the cooling section 6 has a refrigerant, a refrigerant pipe 601, a compression section 602, a condensation section 603, an expansion section 604, an evaporation section 605, a fan 606, a first cold air passage 610, a second cold air passage 620, and a damper 630.

The refrigerant transports heat. The refrigerant piping 601 guides the refrigerant. The refrigerant piping 601 connects the compression section 602, the condensation section 603, the expansion section 604, and the evaporation section 605. The refrigerant piping 601 circulates the refrigerant between the compression section 602, the condensation section 603, the expansion section 604, and the evaporation section 605.

The compression section 602 compresses the gaseous refrigerant. The refrigerant vaporized in the evaporation section 605 is sent to the compression section 602. The refrigerant compressed in the compression section 602 becomes high temperature and high pressure.

The condensation section 603 liquefies the gaseous refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant that has become high temperature and high pressure in the compression section 602 is sent to the condensation section 603. The condensation section 603 dissipates heat from the gaseous refrigerant sent from the compression section 602. The refrigerant that has dissipated heat in the condensation section 603 becomes a liquid refrigerant at room temperature and high pressure.

The expansion section 604 allows liquid refrigerant to pass through. Liquid refrigerant at room temperature and high pressure is sent to the expansion section 604 from the condensation section 603. The expansion section 604 reduces the pressure on the refrigerant that has passed through it. As the pressure on the refrigerant decreases, the boiling point of the refrigerant decreases. In other words, the expansion section 604 reduces the temperature and pressure of the liquid refrigerant.

The evaporation section 605 vaporizes the refrigerant whose boiling point has been lowered. Low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant is sent from the expansion section 604 to the evaporation section 605. The refrigerant sent to the evaporation section 605 then vaporizes. When the refrigerant vaporizes, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air. In other words, the air around the evaporation section 605 is cooled as the refrigerant vaporizes. The vaporized refrigerant is sent again from the evaporation section 605 to the compression section 602.

The fan 606 rotates. The fan 606 blows air by rotating. The fan 606 blows cooled air. Specifically, the fan 606 blows air cooled by the evaporator 605. Hereinafter, the cooled air may be referred to as "cold air." The fan 606 blows the cold air to the first cold air passage 610 and the second cold air passage 620.

The first cold air passage 610 guides cold air. The first cold air passage 610 is arranged on the side of the third side wall 24 of the first refrigerator compartment 3. The first cold air passage 610 extends from the first insulating wall 27 to the top wall 25. The first cold air passage 610 guides cold air to the first refrigerator compartment 3. The first cold air passage 610 has multiple outlets 611.

The multiple outlets 611 include a first outlet 611A, a second outlet 611B, a third outlet 611C, a fourth outlet 611D, a fifth outlet 611E, and a sixth outlet 611F. The first outlet 611A guides cold air from the top wall 25 side. The first outlet 611A is located on the top wall 25 side of the first refrigerator compartment 3. The first outlet 611A discharges cold air from the top wall 25 side toward the first insulating wall 27. In other words, the first outlet 611A discharges cold air into the first refrigerator compartment 3. The first outlet 611A is a rectangular through hole. The first outlet 611A corresponds to an example of a "first outlet".

The second outlet 611B guides the cool air between the top wall 25 and the first partition plate 311A. The cool air discharged from the second outlet 611B cools the object OB placed on the first partition plate 311A. The second outlet 611B is a rectangular through hole. The second outlet 611B is an example of a "second outlet."

The third outlet 611C guides the cold air between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B. The cold air discharged from the third outlet 611C cools an object OB placed on the second partition plate 311B. For example, the cold air discharged from the third outlet 611C cools, for example, fruit. The third outlet 611C is a rectangular through-hole. The third outlet 611C corresponds to an example of a "second outlet".

The fourth outlet 611D guides the cold air between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. The cold air discharged from the fourth outlet 611D cools the object OB placed on the third partition plate 311C. The fourth outlet 611D is a rectangular through hole. The fourth outlet 611D is an example of a "second outlet".

The fifth outlet 611E guides cold air between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D. The cold air discharged from the fifth outlet 611E cools an object OB placed on the fourth partition plate 311D. For example, the cold air discharged from the fifth outlet 611E cools, for example, a beverage. The fifth outlet 611E is a rectangular through-hole. The fifth outlet 611E corresponds to an example of a "second outlet".

The sixth outlet 611F guides the cold air between the fourth partition plate 311D and the first insulating wall 27. Specifically, the sixth outlet 611F guides the cold air to the chilled chamber 310. The cold air discharged from the sixth outlet 611F cools the object OB placed in the chilled chamber 310. The sixth outlet 611F is a rectangular through hole. The sixth outlet 611F corresponds to an example of a "second outlet".

The second cold air passage 620 guides the cold air. The second cold air passage 620 guides the cold air to the second refrigerator compartment 4. The second cold air passage 620 has a seventh outlet 621A.

The seventh outlet 621A guides the cold air to the second refrigerator compartment 4. Specifically, the seventh outlet 621A guides the cold air to the storage case 412 housed in the second refrigerator compartment 4. The cold air guided to the second refrigerator compartment 4 cools the object OB housed in the storage case 412. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the cold air guided to the second refrigerator compartment 4 cools the vegetables housed in the storage case 412.

The damper 630 opens and closes the first cold air passage 610 and the second cold air passage 620. When the damper 630 is open, the first cold air passage 610 and the second cold air passage 620 communicate with each other. That is, when the damper 630 is open and the fan 606 blows cooled air, the cold air is guided from the second cold air passage 620 to the first cold air passage 610. On the other hand, when the damper 630 is closed, the first cold air passage 610 and the second cold air passage 620 do not communicate with each other. When the damper 630 is closed, the cold air is not guided from the second cold air passage 620 to the first cold air passage 610. The temperature of the first refrigerator compartment 3 and the second refrigerator compartment 4 is adjusted by opening and closing the damper 630. The damper 630 may have a temperature detection unit.

As shown in FIG. 2, the ion generating unit 9 generates ions. The ion generating unit 9 is attached to the ceiling wall 25. The ion generating unit 9 is disposed inside the first cold air passage 610 and near the first outlet 611A. The ion generating unit 9 includes a pair of discharge electrodes. Each of the pair of discharge electrodes is a needle-shaped or brush-shaped electrode. Each of the pair of discharge electrodes is formed, for example, from a metal having electrical conductivity.

The pair of discharge electrodes discharge. Specifically, when a high voltage is applied to the pair of discharge electrodes, the pair of discharge electrodes discharge to generate active species. The active species includes ions. For example, when a high voltage is applied to the pair of discharge electrodes, a corona discharge occurs between the discharge electrodes. Then, one of the pair of discharge electrodes discharges positive ions. The positive ions are cluster ions (H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is any positive number equal to or greater than zero)) in which a plurality of water molecules are clustered around a hydrogen ion (H ⁺ ). Furthermore, the other of the pair of discharge electrodes discharges negative ions. The negative ions are cluster ions (O ₂ - (H ₂ O) _n (n is any positive number equal to or greater than zero)) in which a plurality of water molecules are clustered around an oxygen ion (O ₂ - ).

The released positive and negative ions surround, for example, mold spores floating in the air, and cause a chemical reaction on the surface of the mold spores. The chemical reaction produces active species, hydroxyl radicals (.OH). The action of the hydroxyl radicals (.OH) then removes the mold spores.

The ion generating unit 9 is disposed, for example, in at least one of the first cold air passage 610 and the second cold air passage 620. Therefore, the ions generated by the ion generating unit 9 are contained in the wind generated by the fan 606. In other words, the cold air contains ions. The cold air containing ions is then discharged from the first outlet 611A to the seventh outlet 621A. As a result, the cold air containing ions is sent to each of the first refrigerator compartment 3 and the second refrigerator compartment 4. Furthermore, the cold air containing ions circulates between the first refrigerator compartment 3 and the second refrigerator compartment 4.

Next, the adjustment member 615 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 5. Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the adjustment member 615. Figure 4 shows the adjustment member 615 as viewed from the direction from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23. In other words, Figure 4 shows the adjustment member 615 as viewed from the fourth direction D4. Figure 5 is a view of the adjustment member 615 shown in Figure 4 as viewed from a different direction. Figures 4 and 5 show the state without the first side wall 22 to make it easier to understand the invention.

The adjustment member 615 adjusts the discharge of the cold air. Specifically, the adjustment member 615 adjusts the cold air discharged from the outlet 611. Specifically, the adjustment member 615 adjusts the discharge direction of the cold air. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the adjustment member 615 is disposed at the outlet 611.

There are various principles by which the adjustment member 615 adjusts the direction of cool air discharge, but the present invention can be applied regardless of the type of principle. For example, the adjustment member 615 has a first blade 651, a first shaft 653, a second blade 652, and a second shaft 654. The first shaft 653 supports the first blade 651. The first blade 651 can open and close the outlet 611. The first blade 651 has one end and the other end. One end of the first blade 651 is supported by the first shaft 653. As shown in FIG. 4, when the outlet 611 is closed by the first blade 651, one end of the first blade 651 is located on the bottom wall 21 side, and the other end of the first blade 651 is located on the top wall 25 side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first blade 651 rotates around a rotation axis AX extending along the fourth direction D4. The first blade 651 rotates around the rotation axis AX in a first rotation direction R1 and a second rotation direction R2. The first rotation direction R1 is the direction in which the first blade 651 moves away from the discharge port 611. The second rotation direction R2 is the direction in which the first blade 651 moves closer to the discharge port 611. The first blade 651 rotates around the rotation axis AX to open and close the discharge port 611. In other words, when the first blade 651 is rotated in the first rotation direction R1, the discharge port 611 is open. When the first blade 651 is rotated in the second rotation direction R2, the discharge port 611 is closed. The first blade 651 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member.

For example, when the first blade 651 is rotated in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2 and the other end of the first blade 651 is positioned closer to the second direction D2 than one end of the first blade 651, the cool air is sent out toward the top wall 25. Also, when the first blade 651 is rotated in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2 and the other end of the first blade 651 is positioned closer to the first direction D1 than one end of the first blade 651, the cool air is sent out toward the bottom wall 21.

The second shaft 654 supports the second blade 652. The second blade 652 adjusts the direction in which the cold air is blown out. The second blade 652 has one end and the other end. One end of the second blade 652 is supported by the second shaft 654. One end of the second blade 652 is the end on the first cold air passage 610 side. The other end of the second blade 652 is the end on the first storage section 32 side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the second blade 652 rotates around a rotation axis AY extending along the first direction D1. The second blade 652 rotates around the rotation axis AY in a third rotation direction R3 and a fourth rotation direction R4. The third rotation direction R3 is the direction in which the other end of the second blade 652 faces from the second side wall 23 to the first side wall 22. The fourth rotation direction R4 is the direction in which the other end of the second blade 652 faces from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23. The second blade 652 rotates around the rotation axis AY to adjust the direction in which the cool air is blown out. The second blade 652 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped member.

For example, when the second blade 652 is rotated in the third rotation direction R3 or the fourth rotation direction R4 and the other end of the second blade 652 is located closer to the first side wall 22 than one end of the second blade 652, the cool air is sent out to the first side wall 22 side. Also, when the second blade 652 is rotated in the third rotation direction R3 or the fourth rotation direction R4 and the other end of the second blade 652 is located closer to the second side wall 23 than one end of the second blade 652, the cool air is sent out to the second side wall 23 side.

2 and 3, the adjustment member 615 includes a plurality of adjustment members 615. Each of the plurality of adjustment members 615 is disposed at a corresponding one of the plurality of outlets 611. The plurality of adjustment members 615 include a first adjustment member 615A, a second adjustment member 615B, a third adjustment member 615C, a fourth adjustment member 615D, a fifth adjustment member 615E, and a sixth adjustment member 615F.

Each of the first adjustment member 615A to the sixth adjustment member 615F has a first blade 651, a first shaft 653, a second blade 652, and a second shaft 654, as described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

Next, the display unit 80 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the display unit 80 of the cooling device 100.

The display unit 80 displays images. The images include at least one of still images and videos.

The display unit 80 includes a display unit 81 and an operation detection unit 82. The display unit 81 displays an image. The display unit 81 covers at least a portion of the first storage space 26A. The display unit 81 is rectangular. The display unit 81 and the operation detection unit 82 are arranged so as to overlap each other. The user can view the image displayed on the display unit 81 via the operation detection unit 82.

1 and 6, the display unit 81 switches between a first display state and a second display state. The first display state indicates a state in which light is transmitted from the first storage space 26A of the first storage unit 32. The second display state indicates a state in which light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state. A state in which light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state typically indicates a state in which the user cannot view the first storage space 26A through the display unit 81 from outside the cooling device 100. Note that the state in which light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state may be a state in which the display unit 81 is transparent to the extent that it is more difficult for the user to view the first storage space 26A through the display unit 81 from outside the cooling device 100 than in the first display state.

The display unit 81 operates in a plurality of modes. The plurality of modes of the display unit 81 include a standby mode MS and a transmissive mode MP. The display unit 81 shown in FIG. 1 is in the standby mode MS. The standby mode MS indicates a mode in which the entire area AL of the display unit 81 is in the second display state. The entire area AL of the display unit 81 indicates an area including the entire display surface of the display unit 81. Therefore, in the standby mode MS, the user cannot see the first storage space 26A at all through the display unit 81 from outside the cooling device 100, or it is more difficult to see than in the first display state. The second display state is, for example, a state in which the backlight is turned off, a state in which a dark solid image is displayed in the entire area AL of the display unit 81, or a state in which the drive voltage is changed to reduce the transparency of the display unit 81.

The display unit 81 shown in FIG. 6 is in the transparent mode MP. The transparent mode MP indicates a mode in which a partial area VS of the display unit 81 is in the first display state. The partial area VS of the display unit 81 indicates a portion of the entire area AL of the display unit 81. Therefore, in the transparent mode MP, the display unit 81 is transparent to the extent that, for example, a user can view the first storage space 26A from outside the cooling device 100 through the partial area VS of the display unit 81. The display unit 81 switches from the standby mode MS to the transparent mode MP in response to an operation by the user. In the transparent mode MP, the partial area VS of the display unit 81 is transparent and see-through. "Transparent" means colorless transparent, translucent, or colored transparent. In other words, "transparent" is a state in which light is transmitted from the first storage space 26A of the first storage section 32, and indicates that, for example, an object OB located on the back side of the display section 81 can be seen from the front side of the display section 81.

The display unit 81 is, for example, a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel. The display unit 81 is formed, for example, of a transparent electrode, a transparent substrate, and a transparent material layer (for example, a liquid crystal layer or an organic EL layer). There are various principles for configuring the display unit 81 to be transparent, but the present invention can be applied regardless of the type of principle. For example, the display unit 81 is a transmissive liquid crystal panel. The display unit 80 may have a configuration in which a backlight is provided in a position that does not face the back surface of the display surface of the display unit 81. The backlight includes multiple light sources. The light source is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). For example, the backlight is arranged on the inner wall surface of the first refrigerator compartment 3 of the main body 2. For example, the backlight is arranged on the first side wall 22 to the third side wall 24 of the first refrigerator compartment 3. Specifically, the backlight is disposed on the first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23. The backlight may also be disposed on the first door 31. The backlight may also be disposed on each of the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, the third side wall 24, and the first door 31. The backlight may also serve as both the backlight for the display unit 80 and the interior light for the first refrigerator compartment 3.

For example, the display unit 81 may be a self-luminous organic EL panel. Below, a transmissive liquid crystal panel will be used as an example of the display unit 81.

The operation detection unit 82 detects an operation position on the display unit 81. The operation position is a position operated by contact or non-contact, and may indicate a point or an area. The operation includes a touch operation. The touch operation includes a touch operation by contact or non-contact. For example, the operation detection unit 82 detects the rubbing of a finger or a touch pen. The rubbing of a finger or a touch pen indicates, for example, a flick, a swipe, or a drag. The operation detection unit 82 may be an on-cell type or an in-cell type. The operation detection unit 82 is transparent.

The operation detection unit 82 can also function as an input unit. When the display unit 81 displays a software keyboard, various characters can be input to the operation detection unit 82. When the display unit 81 displays a menu key, instructions to execute various functions can be input to the operation detection unit 82. The detection result of the operation detection unit 82 is output to the control unit 11 as a detection signal. The cooling device 100 is operated based on the detection result of the operation detection unit 82.

Next, the cooling device 100 will be described in detail with reference to Figs. 6 and 7. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing the control unit 11 of the cooling device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the cooling device 100 further includes a detection unit 90, a control unit 11, and a memory unit 12.

The detection unit 90 detects a moving object. The detection unit 90 detects the moving object and outputs a detection signal of the moving object to the control unit 11. The moving object is, for example, a human being.

The detection unit 90 includes an imaging unit 91 and a distance measurement unit 92. The imaging unit 91 captures an image of the moving object and outputs an imaging signal as a detection signal to the control unit 11. The imaging unit 91 includes, for example, a camera. The distance measurement unit 92 detects the distance of the moving object relative to the display unit 80 and outputs a distance measurement signal as a detection signal to the control unit 11. The distance measurement unit 92 includes, for example, a distance measurement sensor.

The storage unit 12 stores data and computer programs. For example, the storage unit 12 temporarily stores data necessary for each process of the control unit 11, and stores setting data for the display unit 80. The storage unit 12 includes storage devices (main storage device and auxiliary storage device), and includes, for example, a memory and a hard disk drive. The storage unit 12 may include removable media. The storage unit 12 stores images. The images include at least one of still images and videos.

The control unit 11 controls each element of the cooling device 100. The control unit 11 is installed, for example, inside the top wall 25. The control unit 11 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a storage device. For example, the control unit 11 receives a signal output by the operation detection unit 82. As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 11 controls each element of the cooling device 100, such as the cooling unit 6, the display unit 80, the detection unit 90, and the storage unit 12, based on the received signal.

The control unit 11 also has a cooling control unit 111 and a display control unit 112. The control unit 11 functions as the cooling control unit 111 and the display control unit 112 by executing a control program.

The display control unit 112 controls the display unit 80. The control unit 11 executes a transparent mode MP and a standby mode MS. For example, the control unit 11 switches the mode of the display unit 81 between the transparent mode MP and the standby mode MS. The control unit 11 controls the display unit 81 so that a portion of the display unit 81, a region VS, is transparent.

The cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 based on the operation position. For example, the cooling control unit 111 changes the cooling conditions of the cooling unit 6 before and after the operation position is detected. For example, the cooling conditions before the operation position is detected indicate that the cooling unit 6 stops operating. Also, for example, the cooling conditions after the operation position is detected indicate that the cooling unit 6 starts operating.

When the operation detection unit 82 detects the operation position, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling conditions of a specific area in the first storage space 26A corresponding to the operation position are different from the cooling conditions of an area in the first storage space 26A that is different from the specific area. The operation position is a position operated on a partial area VS in the first display state of the display unit 81. The specific area corresponding to the operation position is, for example, the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. The area that is different from the specific area is, for example, the area between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B. As a result, the cooling conditions of a specific area in the first storage space 26A that corresponds to the operation position can be easily controlled.

In addition, because the display unit 81 is transparent, the object OB inside the first storage unit 32 can be confirmed without opening the first door 31. As a result, the cooling unit 6 can be operated while checking the position of the object OB without releasing the cold air inside the first storage unit 32 to the outside.

The cooling control unit 111 also controls the amount of cold air sent out and the temperature of the cold air based on the operation position. Therefore, the cooling control unit 111 can change the amount of cold air sent out based on the operation position. Also, the cooling control unit 111 can change the temperature of the cold air based on the operation position. As a result, cold air can be sent out as desired by the user.

For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the number of revolutions of the fan 606 based on the operation position. For example, when the operation position is the area between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B, the cooling control unit 111 increases the number of revolutions of the fan 606 compared to the case where cool air is sent to the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. For example, when the operation position is the area between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D, the cooling control unit 111 decreases the number of revolutions of the fan 606 compared to the case where cool air is sent to the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. In other words, the cooling control unit 111 controls the fan 606 so that the number of revolutions of the fan 606 increases as the operation position is closer to the top wall 25. In addition, the cooling control unit 111 controls the fan 606 so that the rotation speed of the fan 606 decreases the closer the operating position is to the bottom wall 21.

For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the time that the fan 606 rotates based on the operation position. For example, when the operation position is in the area between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B, the cooling control unit 111 lengthens the time that the fan 606 rotates compared to when cold air is sent to the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. For example, when the operation position is in the area between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D, the cooling control unit 111 shortens the time that the fan 606 rotates compared to when cold air is sent to the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. In other words, the cooling control unit 111 controls the fan 606 so that the closer the operation position is to the top wall 25, the longer the time that the fan 606 rotates. In addition, the cooling control unit 111 controls the fan 606 so that the time the fan 606 rotates decreases as the operating position becomes closer to the bottom wall 21.

In this embodiment, the first storage space 26A is divided into at least two regions by the partition plate 311. The cooling control unit 111 then identifies which of the two regions divided by the partition plate 311 corresponds to the operation position in the first storage space 26A. The cooling control unit 111 causes the cooling unit 6 to discharge cold air from the outlet 611 so that the cooling conditions of one region corresponding to the operation position in the first storage space 26A divided by the partition plate 311 are different from the cooling conditions of the other region not corresponding to the operation position in the first storage space 26A divided by the partition plate 311. Therefore, the cooling conditions of one region divided by the partition plate 311 in the first storage space 26A and the cooling conditions of the other region divided by the partition plate 311 in the first storage space 26A can be easily changed based on the operation position. As a result, the cooling conditions of the regions divided by the partition plate 311 can be easily changed.

For example, when the cooling unit 6 is not blowing out cold air, the cooling conditions of the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C are the same as the cooling conditions of the area between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D. On the other hand, when the operating position corresponds to the area between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D and cold air is blown out from the fifth outlet 611E, the cooling conditions of the area between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D are different from the cooling conditions of the area between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C.

Next, the cooling unit 6 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 4 to 7. As shown in Figure 7, the cooling unit 6 further includes a modification unit 640.

The change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 shown in Figures 4 and 5. Therefore, the direction in which cool air is blown out can be changed. As a result, cool air can be blown out to a position corresponding to the operating position.

The change unit 640 has a first motor 641 and a second motor 642. The first motor 641 rotates the first shaft 653 shown in FIG. 5. The first motor 641 rotates the first shaft 653 to change the angle of the first blade 651. The first motor 641 is controlled by the cooling control unit 111.

For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 rotates the first blade 651 in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2 around the rotation axis AX.

Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 changes the angle of the first blade 651 to 45 degrees with respect to the axis along the first direction D1. When the angle of the first blade 651 is changed to 45 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the top wall 25 side. The cooling control unit 111 also controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 changes the angle of the first blade 651 to 90 degrees with respect to the axis along the first direction D1. When the angle of the first blade 651 is changed to 90 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the first door 31 side. The cooling control unit 111 also controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 changes the angle of the first blade 651 to 135 degrees with respect to the axis along the first direction D1. When the angle of the first blade 651 is changed to 135 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the bottom wall 21 side.

The second motor 642 rotates the second shaft 654 shown in FIG. 5. The second motor 642 rotates the second shaft 654 to change the angle of the second blade 652. The second motor 642 is controlled by the cooling control unit 111.

For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 rotates the second blade 652 in the third rotation direction R3 or the fourth rotation direction R4 around the rotation axis AY.

Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 changes the angle of the second blade 652 to 45 degrees with respect to the axis along the third direction D3. In other words, when the angle of the second blade 652 is changed to 45 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the second side wall 23 side. In addition, the cooling control unit 111 controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 changes the angle of the second blade 652 to 90 degrees with respect to the axis along the third direction D3. When the angle of the second blade 652 is changed to 90 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the first door 31 side. In addition, the cooling control unit 111 controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 changes the angle of the second blade 652 to 135 degrees with respect to the axis along the third direction D3. When the angle of the second blade 652 is changed to 135 degrees, the cold air is sent toward the first side wall 22 side.

In addition, for example, the first motor 641 adjusts the angle of the first blade 651, and the second motor 642 adjusts the angle of the second blade 652, so that the direction of cool air emission can be changed to various angles. In other words, the first motor 641 adjusts the angle of the first blade 651, and the second motor 642 adjusts the angle of the second blade 652, so that cool air can be emitted to a position corresponding to the operation position P. The change unit 640 corresponds to multiple adjustment members 615, and can change the angle of each of the multiple adjustment members 615.

The control unit 11 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 4 to 7. The control unit 11 further includes an outlet selection unit 113. The control unit 11 functions as the outlet selection unit 113 by executing a control program.

The display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to display an image EG1 showing the first outlet and an image EG2 showing the second outlet. As shown in FIG. 8, the image EG1 showing the first outlet shows the outline of the first outlet 611A. The image EG1 showing the first outlet is, for example, rectangular. Within the partial area VS that has entered the first display state, the image EG1 showing the first outlet is positioned so as to overlap the position of the first outlet 611A.

Image EG2 showing the second outlet shows, for example, the outline of second outlet 611B. Image EG2 showing the second outlet is, for example, rectangular. Image EG2 showing the second outlet is arranged overlapping the position of second outlet 611B in the partial area VS in the first display state. Image EG2 showing the second outlet may also show the outline of third outlet 611C, the outline of fourth outlet 611D, or the outline of fifth outlet 611E. Multiple images EG showing the second outlet may be displayed on display 81, and each of the multiple images EG showing second outlets may show the outline of second outlet 611B to fourth outlet 611D, respectively.

Then, the user operates either image EG1 showing the first outlet or image EG2 showing the second outlet. In other words, the operation position indicates the position on the display unit 81 where image EG1 showing the first outlet is displayed, or the position on the display unit 81 where image EG2 showing the second outlet is displayed.

The outlet selection unit 113 selects an outlet 611 that will discharge cold air. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects an outlet 611 that will discharge cold air from the first outlet or the second outlet based on the operation position. More specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects an outlet 611 that will discharge cold air from the first outlet or the second outlet based on information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image EG1 showing the first outlet is displayed, information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image EG2 showing the second outlet is displayed, and the operation position. Therefore, an outlet 611 that can send cold air to the operation position can be selected. As a result, cold air can be sent from the outlet desired by the user.

For example, the outlet selection unit 113 may select an outlet 611 corresponding to the operation position based on the operation position and a first correspondence table stored in the memory unit 12. The first correspondence table shows a table in which the positions on the display unit 81 correspond to the outlets 611. For example, the position from the top wall 25 to the first partition plate 311A corresponds to the first outlet 611A or the second outlet 611B. The position from the first partition plate 311A to the second partition plate 311B corresponds to the third outlet 611C. The position from the second partition plate 311B to the third partition plate 311C corresponds to the fourth outlet 611D. The position from the third partition plate 311C to the fourth partition plate 311D corresponds to the fifth outlet 611E. Additionally, the position from the fourth partition plate 311D to the first insulating wall 27 corresponds to the sixth outlet 611F.

For example, if the operation position is between the top wall 25 and the first partition plate 311A, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the second outlet 611B based on the operation position and the first correspondence table. Therefore, cool air is discharged from the second outlet 611B between the top wall 25 and the first partition plate 311A. As a result, the object OB placed on the first partition plate 311A can be cooled.

Also, when the operation position is between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the third outlet 611C based on the operation position and the first correspondence table. Therefore, cool air is discharged from the third outlet 611C between the first partition plate 311A and the second partition plate 311B. As a result, the object OB placed on the second partition plate 311B can be cooled.

Also, when the operation position is between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fourth outlet 611D based on the operation position and the first correspondence table. Therefore, cool air is discharged from the fourth outlet 611D between the second partition plate 311B and the third partition plate 311C. As a result, the object OB placed on the third partition plate 311C can be cooled.

Also, when the operation position is between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fifth outlet port 611E based on the operation position and the first correspondence table. Therefore, cool air is discharged from the fifth outlet port 611E between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D. As a result, the object OB placed on the fourth partition plate 311D can be cooled.

In addition, when the operation position is between the fourth partition plate 311D and the first insulating wall 27, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the sixth outlet 611F based on the operation position and the first correspondence table. Therefore, cold air is discharged from the sixth outlet 611F between the fourth partition plate 311D and the first insulating wall 27. As a result, the object OB placed on the first insulating wall 27 can be cooled. In other words, the object OB stored inside the chilled chamber 310 is cooled.

The cooling control unit 111 also controls the cooling unit 6 to send cool air from the outlet 611 selected by the outlet selection unit 113 toward the operation position. The user touches a location on the display unit 81 where the partial area VS is in the first display state, the location corresponding to the position of the object OB. In other words, the position of the touch operation is the position of the object OB. Therefore, cool air can be sent toward the object OB. As a result, the object OB that the user wants to cool can be cooled preferentially.

Next, the processing executed by the display control unit 112, the cooling control unit 111, and the outlet selection unit 113 will be specifically described with reference to Figs. 1 to 9. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the display unit 81. Fig. 9 is another diagram showing the display unit 81.

As shown in Figures 8 and 9, a partial area VS of the display unit 81 is in the first display state. That is, the display unit 81 is at least partially transparent. The user can check the inside of the first refrigerator compartment 3 through the partial area VS of the display unit 81. That is, the user can check the position of the object OB without releasing the cold air in the first storage section 32 to the outside.

For example, the user can recognize that there are first partition plate 311A to fourth partition plate 311D inside first storage section 32. Furthermore, for example, the user can recognize that object OB1 and object OB2 are placed on second partition plate 311B. Furthermore, for example, the user can recognize that object OB3 is placed on fourth partition plate 311D.

For example, the user can see the second adjustment member 615B to the fifth adjustment member 615E arranged inside the first storage section 32. The first adjustment member 615A overlaps with the frame body 301 and is not visible to the user. The sixth adjustment member 615F overlaps with the chilled chamber 310 and is not visible to the user.

In FIG. 8, the adjustment members 615 close the outlets 611. Specifically, the second adjustment member 615B closes the second outlet 611B. The third adjustment member 615C closes the third outlet 611C. The fourth adjustment member 615D closes the fourth outlet 611D. The fifth adjustment member 615E closes the fifth outlet 611E.

Although the user cannot see, the first adjustment member 615A opens the first outlet 611A. In other words, cold air is discharged from the first outlet 611A. The cold air discharged from the first outlet 611A cools the inside of the first storage section 32. Although the user cannot see, the sixth adjustment member 615F opens the sixth outlet 611F. In other words, cold air is released from the sixth outlet 611F. The cold air discharged from the sixth outlet 611F cools the inside of the chilled chamber 310.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the user's finger H is touching the display unit 81. For example, the user's finger H is touching a position on the display unit 81 between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D. Specifically, the user's finger H is touching a position on the display unit 81 that overlaps with the object OB3. The touched position is the operation position P.

In addition, in FIG. 9, the second adjustment member 615B closes the second outlet 611B. The third adjustment member 615C closes the third outlet 611C. The fourth adjustment member 615D closes the fourth outlet 611D.

The fifth adjustment member 615E opens the fifth outlet 611E. That is, cold air is sent out from the fifth outlet 611E. The cold air sent out from the fifth outlet 611E cools the space between the third partition plate 311C and the fourth partition plate 311D. That is, the cold air sent out from the fifth outlet 611E can cool the object OB3 placed on the fourth partition plate 311D.

The process of cooling the object OB3 will now be described in detail with reference to Figures 8 and 9. First, the detection unit 90 detects a human. The detection result of the detection unit 90 is sent to the control unit 11.

The control unit 11, which has received the detection result of the detection unit 90, determines whether or not a user is near the cooling device 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 90. If the control unit 11 determines that the user is not near the cooling device 100, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to change the display unit 81 to the second display state, as shown in FIG. 1. If the control unit 11 determines that the user is near the cooling device 100, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to change at least a partial area VS of the display unit 81 to the first display state, as shown in FIG. 8.

Then, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to display an image EG1 showing the first outlet and an image EG2 showing the second outlet.

Then, the operation detection unit 82 accepts an operation from the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the operation detection unit 82 detects an operation position P that is in contact with the user's finger H on the display unit 81 where the partial area VS is in the first display state. The operation detection unit 82 transmits a signal indicating the operation position P to the control unit 11.

For example, the outlet selection unit 113 of the control unit 11 receives a signal indicating the operation position P and selects the outlet 611 from which cool air will be blown out based on the information indicating the position of image EG1, the information indicating the position of image EG2, and the operation position P. For example, the user's finger H touches the image EG2 indicating the fifth outlet 611E. Based on the information indicating the position of image EG2 indicating the fifth outlet 611E and the operation position P, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fifth outlet 611E.

The cooling control unit 111 then controls the cooling unit 6 so that cold air is discharged from the fifth outlet 611E selected by the outlet selection unit 113. Therefore, cold air is discharged from the fifth outlet 611E and the object OB3 is cooled. As a result, the cooling unit 6 can be operated while checking the position of the object OB without releasing the cold air inside the first storage unit 32 to the outside.

The cooling control unit 111 also controls the cooling unit 6 so that cool air is sent from the fifth outlet 611E selected by the outlet selection unit 113 toward the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P.

More specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 changes the angle of the first blade 651 based on the operation position P. For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the first motor 641 so that the first motor 641 changes the angle of the first blade 651 to 135 degrees based on the operation position P. In other words, the first blade 651 changes the direction in which the cool air is blown out to the side of the fourth partition plate 311D.

The cooling control unit 111 then controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 changes the angle of the second blade 652 based on the operation position P. For example, the cooling control unit 111 controls the second motor 642 so that the second motor 642 changes the angle of the second blade 652 to 45 degrees based on the operation position P. In other words, the second blade 652 changes the direction in which the cool air is blown out toward the third side wall 24.

By simultaneously discharging cold air from the fifth outlet 611E toward the fourth partition plate 311D and toward the third side wall 24, the cold air is sent toward the operating position P. In other words, the cold air discharged from the fifth outlet 611E reaches the object OB3 and cools the object OB. As a result, the object OB that the user wants to cool can be cooled preferentially. Therefore, the object OB3 is cooled preferentially over the objects OB placed on the first partition plate 311A to the third partition plate 311C.

The display unit 81 may also display an image indicating that the location selected by the outlet selection unit 113 is being cooled. This can inform the user that the cooling unit 6 is in the middle of cooling the object OB. As a result, the user can be prevented from opening the first door 31 while the cooling unit 6 is in the middle of cooling the object OB.

The display unit 81 may also display an image indicating that cooling has been completed a predetermined time after cooling of the location selected by the outlet selection unit 113 has begun. This can notify the user that cooling of the object OB has been completed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to remove the cooled object OB from the first storage unit 32.

Next, the process executed by the control unit 11 will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the process executed by the control unit 11. The process executed by the control unit 11 includes steps S101 to S104. The process executed by the control unit 11 shown in FIG. 10 is executed when a user is present near the cooling device 100. In other words, the process executed by the control unit 11 is executed in a position where the display unit 81 of the cooling device 100 can be seen by the user.

In step S101, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 so that at least a partial area VS of the display unit 81 is in the first display state. The process proceeds to step S102.

In step S102, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to display an image. The image includes an image EG1 showing the first outlet and an image EG2 showing the second outlet. The process proceeds to step S103.

In step S103, the control unit 11 determines whether the operation detection unit 82 has detected contact of the user's finger H with a transparent portion of the display unit 81. If no contact is detected (No in step S103), the process repeats step S102. If contact is detected (Yes in step S103), the process proceeds to step S104.

If the answer is Yes in step S103, in step S104, the control unit 11 executes a cooling process. The cooling process will be described in detail with reference to Figures 11 to 13. The process ends.

Next, the cooling process executed by the control unit 11 will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 13. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing yet another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11. The cooling process executed by the control unit 11 includes steps S201 to S244.

As shown in FIG. 11, in step S201, the control unit 11 acquires the operation position P on the display unit 81 detected by the operation detection unit 82. The process proceeds to step S202.

In step S202, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the first outlet 611A based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the first outlet 611A (No in step S202), the process proceeds to step S211 shown in FIG. 12. If the operation position P corresponds to the first outlet 611A (Yes in step S202), the process proceeds to step S203.

If the answer is Yes in step S202, in step S203, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the first outlet 611A based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the first outlet 611A based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S205.

In step S205, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the first outlet 611A. The process then ends.

If the answer is No in step S202, in step S211, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the second outlet 611B based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the second outlet 611B (No in step S211), the process proceeds to step S221. If the operation position P corresponds to the second outlet 611B (Yes in step S211), the process proceeds to step S212.

If the answer is Yes in step S211, in step S212, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the second outlet 611B based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the second outlet 611B based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S213.

In step S213, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S214.

In step S214, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the second outlet 611B. The process then ends.

As shown in FIG. 12, if the answer is No in step S211, in step S221, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the third outlet 611C based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the third outlet 611C (No in step S221), the process proceeds to step S231 shown in FIG. 13. If the operation position P corresponds to the third outlet 611C (Yes in step S221), the process proceeds to step S222.

If the answer is Yes in step S221, in step S222, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the third outlet 611C based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the third outlet 611C based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S223.

In step S223, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S224.

In step S224, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the third outlet 611C. The process then ends.

If the answer is No in step S221, in step S231, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the fourth outlet 611D based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the fourth outlet 611D (No in step S231), the process proceeds to step S241. If the operation position P corresponds to the fourth outlet 611D (Yes in step S231), the process proceeds to step S232.

If the answer is Yes in step S231, in step S232, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fourth outlet 611D based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fourth outlet 611D based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S233.

In step S233, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S234.

In step S234, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the fourth outlet 611D. The process then ends.

As shown in FIG. 13, if the answer is No in step S231, in step S241, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the fifth outlet 611E based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the fifth outlet 611E (No in step S241), the process proceeds to step S251. If the operation position P corresponds to the fifth outlet 611E (Yes in step S241), the process proceeds to step S242.

If the answer is Yes in step S241, in step S242, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fifth outlet 611E based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fifth outlet 611E based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S243.

In step S243, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S244.

In step S244, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the fifth outlet 611E. The process then ends.

If the answer is No in step S241, in step S251, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the operation position P corresponds to the sixth outlet 611F based on the acquired operation position P. If the operation position P does not correspond to the sixth outlet 611F (No in step S251), the process returns to step S201 shown in FIG. 11. If the operation position P corresponds to the sixth outlet 611F (Yes in step S251), the process proceeds to step S252.

If the answer is Yes in step S251, in step S252, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the sixth outlet 611F based on the operation position P. Specifically, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the sixth outlet 611F based on the determination result of the control unit 11. The process proceeds to step S253.

In step S253, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the operation position P. Specifically, the cooling control unit 111 controls the change unit 640 so that the change unit 640 changes the angle of the adjustment member 615 based on the selection result of the outlet selection unit 113. The process proceeds to step S254.

In step S254, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 so that the cooling unit 6 discharges cool air from the sixth outlet 611F. The process then ends.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 14 to Fig. 18. The cooling device 100 according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in that the placement selection unit 114 selects the partition plate 311. Below, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the parts that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted.

The cooling device 100 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 6, 14, and 15. Fig. 14 shows a block diagram of the control unit 11 of the cooling device 100 of the second embodiment. Fig. 15 shows a display unit 81 according to the second embodiment. The cooling device 100 of the second embodiment has a cooling unit 6, an ion generating unit 9, a display unit 80, a detection unit 90, a memory unit 12, and a control unit 11. The cooling unit 6 has a compression unit 602, a condensation unit 603, an expansion unit 604, an evaporation unit 605, a fan 606, a first cold air passage 610, a second cold air passage 620, and a damper 630. The display unit 80 includes a display unit 81 and an operation detection unit 82.

The control unit 11 of the cooling device 100 of the second embodiment has a cooling control unit 111, a display control unit 112, and a placement selection unit 114. The control unit 11 functions as the cooling control unit 111, the display control unit 112, and the placement selection unit 114 by executing a control program.

As shown in FIG. 15, the display control unit 112 controls the display unit 81 to display an image BG1 showing the first placement unit and an image BG2 showing the second placement unit. For example, the image BG1 showing the first placement unit shows the outline of the first partition plate 311A. The image BG1 showing the first placement unit is, for example, rectangular. Of the partial area VS in the first display state, the image BG1 showing the first placement unit is arranged superimposed on the position of the first partition plate 311A. The image BG2 showing the second placement unit shows, for example, the outline of the second partition plate 311B. The image BG2 showing the second placement unit is, for example, rectangular. Of the partial area VS in the first display state, the image BG2 showing the second placement unit is arranged superimposed on the position of the second partition plate 311B. Furthermore, the image BG2 showing the second placement section may show the outer shape of the third partition plate 311C or the outer shape of the fourth partition plate 311D. Furthermore, a plurality of images BG2 showing the second placement section may be displayed on the display unit 81, and each of the images BG2 showing the plurality of second placement sections may show the outer shapes of the second partition plate 311B to the fourth partition plate 311D, respectively. Then, the user operates either the image BG1 showing the first placement section or the image BG2 showing the second placement section. In other words, the operation position P indicates the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG1 showing the first placement section is displayed, or the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG2 showing the second placement section is displayed.

The placement selection unit 114 of the second embodiment selects the partition plate 311 from which cold air is discharged, either the first partition plate or the second partition plate, based on the operation position P. More specifically, the placement selection unit 114 selects the partition plate 311 from which cold air is discharged, either the first partition plate or the second partition plate, based on information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG1 showing the first partition plate is displayed, information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG2 showing the second partition plate is displayed, and the operation position. Then, the placement selection unit 114 selects the outlet 611 from which cold air is discharged, out of the multiple outlets 611, based on information indicating the selected partition plate 311. Therefore, it is possible to select the outlet 611 that can discharge cold air to the operation position P. As a result, it is possible to discharge cold air to a location desired by the user.

For example, the placement selection unit 114 selects the partition board 311 that corresponds to the operation position P based on information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG1 showing the first partition board is displayed, information indicating the position on the display unit 81 where the image BG2 showing the second partition board is displayed, and the operation position P.

Then, the placement selection unit 114 selects the discharge port 611 corresponding to the partition plate 311 based on the information indicating the selected partition plate 311. Specifically, the placement selection unit 114 selects the discharge port 611 corresponding to the partition plate 311 based on the information indicating a specific partition plate 311.

For example, if the operation position P is the position of the image showing the first partition plate 311A, the placement selection unit 114 selects the first partition plate 311A. Then, the placement selection unit 114 selects the second outlet 611B based on the information showing the first partition plate 311A. Therefore, cool air is discharged from the second outlet 611B. As a result, the object OB placed on the first partition plate 311A can be cooled.

The memory unit 12 may also store a second correspondence table and a third correspondence table. The second correspondence table shows a table in which positions on the display unit 81 correspond to the partitions 311. For example, the position from the top wall 25 to the first partition 311A corresponds to the first partition 311A. The position from the first partition 311A to the second partition 311B corresponds to the second partition 311B. The position from the second partition 311B to the third partition 311C corresponds to the third partition 311C. The position from the third partition 311C to the fourth partition 311D corresponds to the fourth partition 311D. The position from the fourth partition 311D to the first insulating wall 27 corresponds to the chilled chamber 310.

The third correspondence table shows a table in which the partitions 311 correspond to the outlets 611. For example, the first partition 311A corresponds to the first outlet 611A or the second outlet 611B. The second partition 311B corresponds to the third outlet 611C. The third partition 311C corresponds to the fourth outlet 611D. The fourth partition 311D corresponds to the fifth outlet 611E. The chilled chamber 310 corresponds to the sixth outlet 611F.

The placement selection unit 114 of the second embodiment may select the partition plate 311 corresponding to the operation position P based on the operation position P and the second correspondence table. Furthermore, the placement selection unit 114 may select the discharge port 611 corresponding to the partition plate 311 based on the information indicating the selected partition plate 311 and the third correspondence table.

For example, when the operation position P is a position between the fourth partition plate 311D and the first insulating wall 27, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the chilled compartment 310 based on the second correspondence table. Then, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the sixth outlet 611F based on the information indicating the chilled compartment 310 and the third correspondence table. Therefore, cold air is discharged from the sixth outlet 611F. As a result, the object OB stored inside the chilled compartment 310 can be cooled.

Next, the cooling process executed by the control unit 11 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 16 to 18. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11 of the cooling device 100 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11 of the second embodiment. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing yet another part of the cooling process executed by the control unit 11 of the second embodiment.

The processing performed by the control unit 11 shown in Figures 16 to 18 includes steps S301 to S355. Steps S301, S302, S305, S306, S311, S314, S315, S321, S324, S325, S331, S334, S335, S341, S344, and S345 correspond to steps S201, S202, S204, S205, S211, S213, S214, S221, S223, S224, S231, S233, S234, S241, S243, S244, S251, S253, and S254 shown in FIGS. 11 to 13.

If the answer is Yes in step S302, in step S303, the placement selection unit 114 selects the first partition plate 311A based on the operation position P. The process proceeds to step S304.

In step S304, the placement selection unit 114 selects the second outlet 611B based on the information indicating the first partition plate 311A. The process proceeds to step S305.

If the answer is Yes in step S311, in step S312, the placement selection unit 114 selects the second partition plate 311B based on the operation position P. The process proceeds to step S313.

In step S313, the placement selection unit 114 selects the third outlet 611C based on the information indicating the second partition plate 311B. Processing proceeds to step S314.

If the answer is Yes in step S321, in step S322, the placement selection unit 114 selects the third partition plate 311C based on the operation position P. The process proceeds to step S323.

In step S323, the placement selection unit 114 selects the fourth outlet 611D based on the information indicating the third partition plate 311C. Processing proceeds to step S324.

If the answer is Yes in step S331, in step S332, the placement selection unit 114 selects the fourth partition plate 311D based on the operation position P. The process proceeds to step S333.

In step S333, the placement selection unit 114 selects the fifth outlet 611E based on the information indicating the fourth partition plate 311D. Processing proceeds to step S334.

If the answer is Yes in step S341, in step S342, the placement selection unit 114 selects the chilled compartment 310 based on the operation position P. The process proceeds to step S343.

In step S343, the placement selection unit 114 selects the sixth outlet 611F based on the information indicating the chilled compartment 310. Processing proceeds to step S344.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in each of the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly shown schematically for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the speed, material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are only examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the configuration of the present invention.

(1) The display unit 80 of the cooling device 100 of this embodiment may have an audio input unit. Audio is input to the audio input unit. Specifically, audio spoken by the user is input to the audio input unit. The audio input unit is, for example, a microphone. The microphone is an example of a sound collection device. The audio input to the audio input unit is transmitted to the control unit 11.

The control unit 11 then extracts a keyword based on the voice input from the voice input unit. Specifically, the control unit 11 converts the user's voice into a digital signal. The control unit 11 then generates text information corresponding to the user's voice based on the digital signal. Furthermore, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the text information indicating the voice input from the voice input unit matches a voice pattern stored in the storage unit 12. The control unit 11 then extracts the text information indicating the voice that matches the voice pattern as a keyword. Furthermore, the control unit 11 controls each part of the cooling device 100 based on the extracted keyword.

For example, the user speaks the number corresponding to the outlet 611 into the voice input section. The numbers corresponding to the outlet 611 are, for example, "No. 1" to "No. 6." "No. 1" corresponds to the first outlet 611A. "No. 2" corresponds to the second outlet 611B. "No. 3" corresponds to the third outlet 611C. "No. 4" corresponds to the fourth outlet 611D. "No. 5" corresponds to the fifth outlet 611E. "No. 6" corresponds to the sixth outlet 611F.

For example, the user speaks "number 5" into the voice input unit. The control unit 11 generates text information indicating "number 5" based on the spoken voice. The control unit 11 then determines whether the text information indicating "number 5" matches the voice pattern and extracts a keyword. Based on the extracted keyword, the control unit 11 controls the cooling unit 6 to blow cool air from the fifth outlet 611E corresponding to "number 5." Note that the partition plate 311 may be associated with a number.

(2) The display control unit 112 may display an image based on the operation position P. For example, the display control unit 112 may display an operation image for manipulating the rotation speed of the fan 606 near the operation position P. Specifically, the display control unit 112 displays an operation image for instructing to increase the rotation speed of the fan 606 and an operation image for instructing to decrease the rotation speed of the fan 606. The operation image displayed by the display control unit 112 is displayed near the operation position P. Therefore, the user intuitively understands that the image is for manipulating the temperature of the portion corresponding to the partition plate 311 on which the object OB is placed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from specifying the temperature of a position other than the portion on which the object OB is placed.

In addition, the operation detection unit 82 detects operations on the operation image. The cooling control unit 111 then controls the cooling unit 6 based on the detection result of the operation detection unit 82.

(3) The interior walls of the first storage section 32 are painted in the same color. The color of the interior walls of the first storage section 32 is, for example, white. By painting the walls white, the light emitted by the backlight of the display unit 80 is reflected. Therefore, the interior walls of the first storage section 32 can be used as a reflective member for the backlight. Furthermore, by painting the walls white, the light emitted from the backlight can be efficiently reflected. As a result, it is possible to prevent the image displayed on the display section 81 from becoming difficult to see.

The color of the partitions 311 may be the same as the color of the inner wall surface of the first storage section 32. In other words, the color of the partitions 311 is white. Therefore, the partitions 311 reflect the light emitted from the backlight of the display unit 80. As a result, it is possible to prevent the image displayed on the display section 81 from becoming difficult to see.

(4) In the cooling device 100 of this embodiment, the display unit 80 is disposed on the first door 31, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the display unit 80 may be disposed on the second door 411. Also, for example, the display unit 80 may be disposed on the first side wall 22 of the main body 2. Also, for example, the display unit 80 may be disposed on the second side wall 23 of the main body 2.

(5) In the cooling device 100 of this embodiment, the control unit 11 changes the brightness of the backlight depending on whether the first door 31 is open or closed. In other words, the control unit 11 controls the brightness of the backlight depending on whether the first door 31 is open or closed. For example, the cooling device 100 has an opening/closing sensor that detects whether the first door 31 is blocking the opening 321 of the first storage section 32. The opening/closing sensor detects the blocking of the first storage section 32. The control unit 11 then controls the backlight based on the detection result of the opening/closing sensor. Specifically, when the detection result indicates that the first door 31 is not blocking the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the control unit 11 controls the brightness of the backlight so that the inside of the first storage section 32 can be seen. Specifically, for example, when the detection result indicates that the first door 31 is blocking the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the control unit 11 controls the brightness of the backlight so that the image on the display unit 81 can be seen. Therefore, when the first door 31 opens the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the user can easily check the inside of the first storage section 32. When the first door 31 closes the opening 321 of the first storage section 32, the user can easily check the display section 81. As a result, the brightness of the object that the user wants to check can be increased, making it easier for the user to check the object.

In addition, when the detection result indicates that the first door 31 is not blocking the opening 321 of the first storage unit 32, the control unit 11 makes the brightness on the display unit 81 side smaller than the brightness on the first storage unit 32 side. In addition, when the detection result indicates that the first door 31 is blocking the opening 321 of the first storage unit 32, the control unit 11 makes the brightness on the display unit 81 side larger than the brightness on the first storage unit 32 side. Therefore, when the first door 31 opens the opening 321 of the first storage unit 32, it is easy for the user to check the inside of the first storage unit 32. When the first door 31 blocks the opening 321 of the first storage unit 32, it is easy for the user to check the display unit 81. As a result, the brightness of the object that the user wants to check can be increased, making it easier to check the object.

(6) The cooling device 100 of this embodiment may perform wireless power supply between the main body 2 and the display unit 80. Specifically, the cooling device 100 may have a power supply unit, a power receiving unit, a first communication unit, and a second communication unit.

The power supply unit supplies power to the power receiving unit. The power supply unit supplies power to the display unit 80 via the power receiving unit. The power supply unit is disposed on the top wall 25 of the main body 2. The power supply unit is connected to the control unit 11 by a signal line. The power supply unit has an oscillation coil.

The power receiving unit receives power supplied from the power supply unit. The power receiving unit is disposed on the first door 31. The power receiving unit is connected to the display unit 80 via a signal line. The power receiving unit has a power receiving coil and a rectifier circuit.

When the first door 31 closes the first storage section 32, the power receiving section faces the power supply section. Specifically, when the first door 31 closes the first storage section 32, the power receiving coil of the power receiving section faces the oscillator coil of the power supply section. When the power receiving coil and the oscillator coil face each other, electromagnetic induction coupling occurs between the power receiving coil and the oscillator coil. Then, an alternating current is induced in the power receiving coil. Therefore, power is supplied to the display unit 80. As a result, power can be supplied to the display unit 80 in a non-contact (wireless) manner.

The first communication unit communicates information with the second communication unit. The first communication unit controls the display unit 80 via the second communication unit. The first communication unit is disposed on the top wall 25 of the main body unit 2. The first communication unit is connected to the control unit 11 by a signal line. The first communication unit has, for example, an infrared light receiving unit and an infrared light emitting unit.

The second communication unit communicates information with the first communication unit. The second communication unit transmits a signal received from the first communication unit to the display unit 80. The second communication unit is disposed on the first door 31. The second communication unit is connected to the display unit 80 by a signal line. The second communication unit has, for example, an infrared receiving unit and an infrared emitting unit.

When the first door 31 closes the first storage section 32, the first communication section faces the second communication section. Specifically, when the first door 31 closes the first storage section 32, the infrared light receiving section of the first communication section faces the infrared light emitting section of the second communication section. Also, when the first door 31 closes the first storage section 32, the infrared light emitting section of the first communication section faces the infrared light receiving section of the second communication section. In other words, data is exchanged between the control section 11 and the display unit 80.

The method of information communication between the control unit 11 and the display unit 80 is infrared communication, but is not limited to this. The power supply method and information communication method are wireless, but are not limited to this. For example, the power supply method and the information communication method may be connected by wire.

(7) The display unit 80 of this embodiment may have a battery. The power supplied to the display unit 80 is stored in the battery.

(8) In the first and second embodiments, the case where there is one operation position P has been described, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the operation detection unit 82 may detect multiple operation positions P. That is, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 based on multiple operation positions P. For example, the first operation position P is the position from the first partition plate 311A to the second partition plate 311B, and the second operation position P is the position from the third partition plate 311C to the fourth partition plate 311D. The outlet selection unit 113 selects the third outlet 611C based on the operation position P indicating the position from the first partition plate 311A to the second partition plate 311B. Furthermore, the outlet selection unit 113 selects the fifth outlet 611E based on the operation position P indicating the position from the third partition plate 311C to the fourth partition plate 311D. The cooling control unit 111 then controls the cooling unit 6 to send out cool air from the third outlet 611C. Furthermore, the cooling control unit 111 controls the cooling unit 6 to send out cool air from the fifth outlet 611E. As a result, even if the user wishes to cool multiple locations, cool air can be released from multiple locations to cool multiple locations.

(9) In the first and second embodiments, it has been described that the first outlet 611A corresponds to an example of a "first outlet" and the second outlet 611B to the sixth outlet 611F correspond to examples of a "second outlet", but this is not limited to the above. For example, the sixth outlet 611F may correspond to an example of a "first outlet". In this case, the first outlet 611A to the fifth outlet 611E correspond to examples of a "second outlet".

(10) In the first and second embodiments, it has been described that the first partition plate 311A corresponds to an example of a "first mounting section" and the second partition plate 311B to the fourth partition plate 311D correspond to an example of a "second mounting section", but this is not limited thereto. For example, the fourth partition plate 311D may correspond to an example of a "first mounting section". In this case, the first partition plate 311A to the third partition plate 311C correspond to an example of a "second mounting section".

The present invention can be used in the fields of cooling devices and cooling control methods.

3: First refrigerator compartment (storage compartment)
6: Cooling section 11: Control section 31: First door (door section)
32: First storage section (storage section)
81: Display unit 82: Operation detection unit 100: Cooling device 111: Cooling control unit 112: Display control unit 113: Discharge port selection unit 114: Placement selection unit 310: Chilled compartment (placement unit)
311: Partition plate (mounting section)
321: opening 611: outlet 615: adjustment member 640: change portion OB: object

Claims (7)

A storage space having a plurality of storage regions for storing objects;
A storage chamber that covers the entire storage space;
A cooling unit that cools the accommodation space;
a display unit that covers at least two of the housing regions of the housing space and switches between a first display state in which light is transmitted from each of the housing regions of the housing space and a second display state in which the light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state;
an operation detection unit that detects an operation position that is a position where an operation is performed on the display unit;
a cooling control unit that maintains the entire storage chamber at the same temperature range and controls the cooling unit so that the cooling condition of one storage area corresponding to the operation position is made different from the cooling conditions of storage areas other than the one storage area among the multiple storage areas, by the operation within an area where the display unit is in the first display state . The storage chamber has a storage section having an opening and a door section for opening and closing the opening,
The cooling device according to claim 1 , wherein the display unit is disposed on the door unit. The cooling condition includes information indicating an amount of cold air to be sent out and information indicating a temperature of the cold air,
The cooling device according to claim 1 , wherein the cooling control unit changes at least one of an amount of the cool air sent out or a temperature of the cool air based on the operation position. The cooling device according to claim 1 , wherein the operation detection unit detects the operation position operated on a predetermined area of the area in the first display state . The cooling unit has a plurality of outlets for discharging cool air into each of the storage areas,
the predetermined area is displayed as a placement selection section for selecting the ejection port,
The cooling device according to claim 4 , wherein the cooling control unit controls the cooling unit so as to blow out the cool air from the outlet selected by the selection unit. A partition plate is provided below the plurality of storage areas to separate the storage areas from adjacent storage areas below,
The cooling device according to claim 4 , wherein the predetermined area corresponds to the partition plate . A step of cooling a storage space having a plurality of storage regions for storing objects by a cooling unit;
a step of switching a display state between a first display state in which light is transmitted from each housing area of the housing space and a second display state in which the light transmittance is lower than that of the first display state;
detecting an operation position where an operation has been performed on the area in the first display state;
and controlling the cooling unit so that the entire storage chamber which covers the entire storage space is maintained at the same temperature range, and that the operation within the area which is in the first display state causes the cooling condition of one storage area which corresponds to the operation position to be different from the cooling conditions of storage areas other than the one storage area among the plurality of storage areas .

Images