Clutch component, transmission device, box equipment and refrigerator

Abstract

The utility model discloses a clutch component, a transmission device, box equipment and a refrigerator. The clutch component comprises a driving piece, a driven piece, a transmission assembly and a driver. The transmission assembly comprises a support, a sun gear rotationally arranged on the support and a planet gear set rotationally arranged on the support, the support is provided with an annular inner gear, the sun gear is in transmission connection with the driving part, and the planet gear set comprises a rotating part in transmission connection with the driven part and a planet gear rotationally arranged on the rotating part; and the planetary gear is meshed with the annular inner gear and the sun gear. The driver comprises a limiting part capable of moving relative to the support, and the limiting part has a limiting state in rotation stopping fit with the support and a separation state separated from the support. According to the clutch component, the intelligent opening and closing requirement of the refrigerator can be met, manual opening and closing operation of a user is not interfered, meanwhile, the structure is simple, and the production cost can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of refrigeration equipment, and in particular to a clutch component, a transmission device, a box device and a refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] With the development of society and the improvement of people's living standards, refrigerators have gradually become an indispensable household appliance in people's daily lives. As intelligent technology continues to expand into the home appliance field, consumers are increasingly demanding ease of use and intelligent features in their home appliance experience. As a fundamental function of refrigerator intelligence, automatic refrigerator opening and closing is also becoming increasingly widely used.

[0003] In the prior art, refrigerators typically use electric drives for automatic opening and closing. However, these drives also require a clutch component to accommodate manual opening and closing. However, the transmission mechanism of traditional clutch components is complex and the application cost is high, resulting in high production costs for these refrigerators. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a clutch component, a transmission device, a cabinet device and a refrigerator, which can meet the intelligent opening and closing requirements of the refrigerator without interfering with the user's manual opening and closing operations. At the same time, the structure is simple and the production cost can be reduced.

[0005] Specifically, the present disclosure is achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0006] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a clutch component is provided, comprising a driving member, a driven member, a transmission assembly, and a driver. The transmission assembly comprises a bracket, a sun gear rotatably disposed on the bracket, and a planetary gear set rotatably disposed on the bracket, the bracket being provided with an annular internal gear, the sun gear being transmission-connected to the driving member, the planetary gear set comprising a rotating member transmission-connected to the driven member, and a planetary gear rotatably disposed on the rotating member, the planetary gears being meshed with the annular internal gear and the sun gear. The driver comprises a limiting portion capable of moving relative to the bracket, the limiting portion having a limiting state in which the limiting portion is engaged with the bracket to prevent rotation, and a separation state in which the limiting portion is separated from the bracket. When the limiting portion is in the limiting state, the driving member can drive the driven member to rotate via the planetary gear set. When the limiting portion is in the separation state, the planetary gear and the annular internal gear can revolve around the sun gear, so that the driven member can rotate relative to the driving member.

[0007] The technical solution of the present disclosure is further described below:

[0008] In one embodiment, the driver further includes a telescoping device, and the limiting portion is fixedly arranged at a telescopic end of the telescoping device.

[0009] In one embodiment, the bracket further includes a cover plate connected to the annular internal gear to form a protective space, and the planetary gear set and the sun gear are disposed within the protective space. The cover plate includes a mating portion, which is connected to the mating portion when the limiting portion is in a limited state and separated from the mating portion when the limiting portion is in a disengaged state.

[0010] In one embodiment, the engaging portion includes at least two retaining ribs, each retaining rib being spaced apart along the rotational direction of the bracket. In the limiting state of the limiting portion, the limiting portion is disposed between two adjacent retaining ribs and is capable of pressing against either of the two adjacent retaining ribs to restrict the bracket from rotating.

[0011] In one embodiment, one of the mating portion and the limiting portion is provided with a convex portion, and the other of the mating portion and the limiting portion is provided with a concave portion. When the limiting portion is in a restricted state, the convex portion and the concave portion are plugged into each other. When the limiting portion is in a separated state, the convex portion and the concave portion are separated.

[0012] In one embodiment, the rotating member includes a rotating disk, and a plurality of planetary gears are provided, and the planetary gears are spaced apart along the circumference of the rotating disk.

[0013] In one embodiment, the clutch component includes a mounting member and a motor, the driver and the motor are spaced apart and arranged on the mounting member, and the output shaft of the motor is in transmission connection with the active member.

[0014] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a transmission device, comprising a bearing member, a telescopic assembly and a clutch member of any of the above-mentioned embodiments, wherein the clutch member comprises a motor in transmission connection with the active member. The bearing member comprises a first end and a second end arranged opposite to the first end. The motor is arranged at the first end, and the motor comprises an output end in transmission connection with the active member. The telescopic assembly comprises a rotating member rotatably arranged on the bearing member and a telescopic member cooperating with the rotating member, and the rotating member is in transmission connection with the driven member. In a limited state, the motor can drive the telescopic member to move toward or away from the second end through the clutch member. In a separated state, the motor and the telescopic assembly are disconnected from transmission.

[0015] In one embodiment, the transmission device further includes a linkage mechanism and a drive rod. The linkage mechanism includes a first mounting member, a second mounting member, and a linkage assembly disposed between the first and second mounting members, wherein the second mounting member swings relative to the first mounting member via the linkage assembly. The drive rod is connected to the telescopic member and has a connecting notch at its second end. The drive rod passes through the connecting notch and movably connects to the linkage mechanism to drive the second mounting member to swing relative to the first mounting member.

[0016] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a box device is provided, comprising a box, a box door rotatably connected to the box, and the transmission device of the aforementioned embodiment. The box is connected to a first mounting member, and the box door is connected to a second mounting member.

[0017] According to a fourth aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a box device is provided, comprising a box, a drawer, and the aforementioned transmission device. The box has a storage cavity, and the drawer is retractably disposed within the cavity. A support member is fixed to the box, and a retractable member is connected to the drawer to drive the drawer to move relative to the box.

[0018] According to a fifth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator is provided, comprising a control device and the above-mentioned cabinet device. The control device is communicatively connected to the motor.

[0019] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure include at least the following beneficial effects:

[0020] When the clutch assembly provided herein is in use, the active member can be driven by the motor to rotate the sun gear, which in turn, through meshing teeth, drives the planetary gears. At this point, the limiting portion of the driver is connected to the bracket to form a limited position, so that the bracket is restricted from rotating, that is, the annular internal gear is restricted from rotating. As a result, the planetary gears can rotate and revolve around the sun gear, driving the rotating member. The rotating member, in turn, drives the driven member, enabling the driven member to rotate along with the active member, thereby achieving linkage between the active and driven members. When the motor no longer outputs torque, the active member stops rotating and no longer drives the sun gear. At this time, the limiting portion is separated from the bracket to form a separation state, so that the bracket is allowed to rotate, that is, the annular internal gear is allowed to rotate. Therefore, when the driven member is rotated by an external force, the driven member can drive the rotating member to rotate, and the rotating member drives the planetary gears to revolve around the sun gear. The planetary gears drive the annular internal gear to revolve around the sun gear through gear meshing, thereby achieving the rotational separation of the driving member and the driven member to disconnect the transmission. Therefore, the driven member can rotate freely relative to the driving member under external force without dragging the driving member to rotate synchronously. In this way, the clutch component provided by the present disclosure can achieve the linkage or separation of the driving member and the driven member through a mechanical clutch transmission method.

[0021] When the clutch component of the present disclosure is applied to the transmission device between the refrigerator door and the refrigerator body, the mechanical clutch transmission between the active member and the transmission member enables the refrigerator door to be opened and closed automatically by electric drive or manually by the user, without interference between the two door opening and closing methods. Furthermore, when the user manually opens and closes the door, the user does not need to drag the motor end to rotate synchronously, which can reduce the resistance encountered when manually opening and closing the door. This can reduce the load on the user when manually opening and closing the door, allowing the user to open and close the door with less effort, thereby improving the user experience.

[0022] The clutch component disclosed herein can also be used to automatically open and close refrigerator drawers and refrigerator cabinets. A driven member connects the drawer assembly, enabling the refrigerator to automatically open and close drawers electrically when the driving and driven members rotate synchronously. When the driving and driven members are disconnected, the drawer can be opened and closed manually by the user, a process not detailed in this disclosure.

[0023] Therefore, the clutch component of the present disclosure operates through a mechanical clutch transmission mode, has a simple structure, and has low production costs.

[0024] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of the present disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and their descriptions are used to explain the present disclosure and do not constitute an improper limitation to the present disclosure.

[0026] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0027] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of a clutch component shown in one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the clutch components is shown from one perspective.

[0029] Figure 3 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the clutch components is shown from another perspective.

[0030] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The clutch components are shown in cross-section along AA.

[0031] Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a transmission device shown in an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of a cabinet device formed by assembling a drawer and a cabinet of a refrigerator shown in one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the drawer shown being opened relative to the box body.

[0034] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a transmission device shown in another embodiment.

[0035] Figure 9 The figure is a structural diagram of a cabinet device formed by assembling a door and a cabinet of a refrigerator shown in one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 10 for Figure 8 The schematic diagram of the structure of the transmission device after being encapsulated by the carrier is shown.

[0037] Figure 11 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigerator shown in an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The refrigerator shown is a half-section view of the CC.

[0039] Figure 13 for Figure 11 The refrigeration principle diagram of the refrigerator shown.

[0040] Reference numerals:

[0041] 1. Refrigerator; 10. Door; 20. Cabinet; 21. Storage cavity; 211. Refrigerator; 212. Freezer; 30. Transmission; 31. Carrier; 311. First end; 312. Second end; 32. Telescopic assembly; 321. Rotating member; 322. Telescopic member; 33. Connecting rod mechanism; 331. First mounting member; 332. Second mounting member; 333. Connecting rod assembly; 34. Driving rod; 35. Coupling; 40. Clutch member; 41. Active Parts; 42. Follower; 43. Transmission assembly; 431. Bracket; 4311. Ring internal gear; 4312. Cover plate; 4313. Matching part; 432. Sun gear; 433. Planetary gear set; 4331. Rotating part; 4332. Planetary gear; 44. Driver; 441. Limiting part; 442. Retractor; 45. Mounting part; 46. Motor; 50. Drawer; 60. Compressor; 70. Condenser; 80. Evaporator; 90. Throttling assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Here, the technical solutions in the embodiments (or "implementations") of the present application will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements.

[0043] If there are terms related to directional indications or positional relationships in the embodiments of the present application (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, inside, outside, top, bottom, center, vertical, horizontal, longitudinal, transverse, length, height, counterclockwise, clockwise, axial, radial, circumferential, etc.), such terms are only used to explain the relative positional relationships, movement, etc. between the components under a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication or positional relationship will also change accordingly. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" in the embodiments of the present application are only used for the purpose of convenience of description and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0044] With socioeconomic development and rising living standards, refrigerators have become an indispensable appliance in people's daily lives. The increasing diversification of refrigerator functions has led to a wide variety of refrigerator types and brands, providing consumers with a wide range of choices. Simply improving refrigerators' cooling properties is insufficient to meet consumer expectations. Refrigerator intelligence has also become a key factor influencing refrigerator competitiveness. Among refrigerators with similar functions or performance, the more intelligent a refrigerator is, the more likely it is to attract consumers.

[0045] Automatic refrigerator opening and closing, a fundamental function of intelligent refrigerators, is becoming increasingly popular. For example, refrigerator doors that automatically open and close are gaining popularity among consumers. Another example is refrigerator drawers that automatically open and close, making it easier for users to access items and are becoming increasingly popular.

[0046] In the related art, refrigerators usually use electric drive to achieve automatic opening and closing. When using electric drive, a clutch component is also needed to take into account manual opening and closing. However, the transmission method of the traditional clutch component is complex and the application cost is high, resulting in a high production cost for this type of refrigerator. For example, the traditional clutch component requires other power sources to achieve its separation or closing, resulting in a relatively bulky structure of the clutch component, a complex transmission method, and a high application cost. Taking the clutch component controlled by the electromagnetic principle as an example, this clutch component needs to control the connection and separation by the on and off of the current, thereby realizing the transmission or disconnection of power. If the power fails, the clutch function will be lost. In this way, after the traditional clutch component is applied to the refrigerator, the electric drive method of the refrigerator needs to set up multiple power sources to ensure that the clutch component can operate effectively, which leads to a high production cost for this type of refrigerator.

[0047] Thus, the present disclosure provides a clutch component that can achieve automated opening and closing of a refrigerator through a mechanical clutch transmission method, while also not interfering with the user's manual opening and closing operation, reducing the resistance encountered by the user, enabling user-friendly operation and improving the user experience. Furthermore, the clutch component provided by the present disclosure utilizes a mechanical clutch transmission method, which can simplify the clutch component's structure and transmission method, thereby reducing the clutch component's production cost.

[0048] The clutch component provided by the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] See also Figures 1 to 4 . Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a clutch component 40 shown in an embodiment. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from one perspective. Figure 3 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from another perspective. Figure 4 for Figure 1 The clutch component is shown in a cross-sectional view along AA. The clutch component 40 provided in the present disclosure includes a driving member 41, a driven member 42, a transmission assembly 43, and a driver 44. The transmission assembly 43 includes a bracket 431, a sun gear 432 rotatably mounted on the bracket 431, and a planetary gear set 433 rotatably mounted on the bracket 431. The bracket 431 is provided with an annular internal gear 4311 that is transmission-connected to the driven member 42. The sun gear 432 is transmission-connected to the driving member 41. The planetary gear set 433 includes a rotating member 4331 that is rotationally mounted relative to the bracket 431 and planetary gears 4332 that are rotationally mounted on the rotating member 4331. The planetary gears 4332 are meshed with the annular internal gear 4311 and the sun gear 432. The driver 44 includes a limiting portion 441 that can move relative to the bracket 431. The limiting portion 441 has a limiting state in which it is locked against rotation with the bracket 431 and a separated state in which it is separated from the bracket 431. When the limiting portion 441 is in the limiting state, the driving member 41 can drive the driven member 42 to rotate through the planetary gear set 433. When the limiting portion 441 is in the disengaged state, the planetary gear set 433 and the annular internal gear 4311 can revolve around the sun gear 432, so that the driven member 42 can rotate relative to the driving member 41.

[0050] It should be noted that the active member 41 can be driven by the motor 46. The active member 41 can be configured as a driving shaft extending along the X-direction. The two ends of the driving shaft, spaced apart along the X-direction, can be connected to the output shaft of the motor 46 and the sun gear 432, respectively, to transmit the power of the motor 46 to the sun gear 432, and then transmit the power to the driven member 42 through the planetary gear train. The driving shaft and the output shaft of the motor 46 can be connected by a coupling, which is not limited in this disclosure.

[0051] The driven member 42 can be coaxially arranged with the driving member 41 along the X-direction to facilitate transmission of the torque of the motor 46. The driven member 42 can be used to connect a movable assembly that can be driven by the motor 46 or manually actuated by the user. For example, when it is necessary to drive the drawer of a refrigerator to open and close automatically, the movable assembly can be the drawer assembly of the refrigerator. Alternatively, when it is necessary to drive the door of a refrigerator to open and close automatically, the movable assembly can be the door assembly of the refrigerator. The movable assembly can be any part that the user desires to open and close automatically or manually. The user can select the corresponding movable assembly based on actual usage requirements, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0052] The transmission assembly 43 is intermittently connected between the active member 41 and the driven member 42 to achieve the linkage and separation of the active member 41 and the driven member 42. When the transmission assembly 43 links the active member 41 and the driven member 42, the motor 46 drives the active member 41 and the driven member 42 to rotate synchronously, thereby driving the movable assembly to automatically open and close. When the transmission assembly 43 separates the active member 41 and the driven member 42, the driven member 42 is no longer controlled by the rotation of the motor 46, and the user can manually open and close the movable assembly.

[0053] By adjusting the rotation and revolution of the planetary gear train, the synchronous rotation and relative rotation between the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 can be adjusted. It is understandable that the number of planetary gears 4332 can be 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, etc., and the user can rotate and set it according to actual needs, which is not limited by this disclosure.

[0054] Specifically, when the clutch component 40 provided by the present disclosure is in use, the active member 41 can be driven by the motor 46 to drive the sun gear 432 to rotate, and the sun gear 432 drives the planetary gears 4332 to rotate through gear meshing. At this time, the limiting portion 441 of the driver 44 is connected to the bracket 431 to form a limiting state, so that the bracket 431 is restricted from rotating, that is, the annular internal gear 4311 is restricted from rotating. Therefore, the planetary gears 4332 can rotate and revolve under the drive of the sun gear 432, thereby driving the rotating member 4331 to rotate. The rotating member 4331 then drives the driven member 42 to rotate, so that the driven member 42 can rotate together with the active member 41, thereby realizing the linkage between the active member 41 and the driven member 42. When the motor 46 no longer outputs torque, the active member 41 stops rotating and no longer drives the sun gear 432 to rotate. At this time, the limiting portion 441 is separated from the bracket 431 to form a separation state, so that the bracket 431 is allowed to rotate, that is, the annular internal gear 4311 is allowed to rotate. Therefore, when the driven member 42 is rotated by an external force, the driven member 42 can drive the rotating member 4331 to rotate, and the rotating member 4331 drives the planetary gears 4332 to revolve around the sun gear 432. The planetary gears 4332 drive the annular internal gear 4311 to revolve around the sun gear 432 through gear meshing, thereby realizing the rotation separation of the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 to disconnect the transmission. Therefore, the driven member 42 can be freely rotated relative to the driving member 41 under external force without dragging the driving member 41 to rotate synchronously. In this way, the clutch component 40 provided by the present disclosure can realize the linkage or separation of the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 through a mechanical clutch transmission method.

[0055] When the clutch component 40 of the present disclosure is applied to the transmission device between the refrigerator door and the refrigerator body, the mechanical clutch transmission between the active member 41 and the transmission member enables the refrigerator door to be opened and closed automatically by electric drive or manually by the user, without interference between the two door opening and closing methods. At the same time, when the user manually opens and closes the door, the user does not need to drag the motor 46 end to rotate synchronously, which can reduce the resistance encountered when manually opening and closing the door. This can reduce the load on the user when manually opening and closing the door, allowing the user to open and close the door with less effort, thereby improving the user experience.

[0056] The clutch component 40 disclosed herein can also be used to automatically open and close a refrigerator drawer and refrigerator body. The driven member 42 connects the drawer assembly, enabling the refrigerator to automatically open and close the drawer electrically when the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 rotate synchronously. When the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 are disconnected, the drawer can be opened and closed manually by the user, a process not described in detail in this disclosure.

[0057] Therefore, the clutch component 40 of the present disclosure operates through a mechanical clutch transmission mode, has a simple structure, and has low production costs.

[0058] The driver 44 can be flexibly set according to the motion trajectory required for the limiting portion 441 to switch between the limiting state and the separation state. The driver 44 includes a telescopic device, a swing driving device, and the like.

[0059] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 , see Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 2 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from one perspective. Figure 3 for Figure 1 In some embodiments, to facilitate the reciprocating telescopic movement of the limiting portion 441 relative to the bracket 431 , the driver 44 further includes a telescoping device 442 , and the limiting portion 441 is fixed to the telescopic end of the telescoping device 442 .

[0060] It should be noted that the telescopic device 442 includes, but is not limited to, a secondary retractable rod, a pneumatic rod, a hydraulic rod, a linear motor, or other power devices that directly drive the telescopic movement of the limiting portion 441. The telescopic device 442 also includes a power mechanism that indirectly achieves the telescopic movement of the limiting portion, utilizing a rack and pinion assembly combined with a servo motor, a screw-nut assembly combined with a servo motor, or a flexible transmission assembly combined with a servo motor. Thus, when the telescopic end of the telescopic device 442 extends toward the bracket 431 in the X-direction, the limiting portion 441 can connect with the bracket 431 to form a restricted state, thereby restricting the rotation of the bracket 431, enabling the planetary gear 4332 to rotate and revolve, thereby achieving the linkage between the driving member 41 and the driven member 42. When the telescopic end of the telescope 442 moves away from the bracket 431 in the opposite direction of X, the limit portion 441 can be separated from the bracket 431 to form a separated state, thereby allowing the bracket 431 to rotate, realizing the revolution of the annular internal gear 4311 and the planetary gear 4332 around the sun gear 432, so that the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 can be disconnected from the transmission, and the driven member 42 can rotate freely relative to the driving member 41 without dragging the driving member 41 to rotate.

[0061] In addition, the driver 44 may also include a swing mechanism connected to the telescope 442. The swing mechanism can drive the telescope 442 to swing back and forth to adjust the rotational position of the telescope 442 relative to the bracket 431. In conjunction with the extension and retraction of the telescopic end of the telescope 442 during the telescopic movement, the telescopic end can drive the limiter 441 to connect or disconnect with the bracket 431, switching the limiter 441 and the bracket 431 between the limit state and the disconnect state, thereby adjusting the linkage and disconnection between the active member 41 and the driven member 42. The swing mechanism can be a crank-connecting rod mechanism or a gear transmission mechanism, etc., which is not limited by the present disclosure.

[0062] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3In some embodiments, in order to protect the gear transmission mechanism, the bracket 431 further includes a cover plate 4312 connected to the annular internal gear 4311 to form a protective space, and the planetary gear set 433 and the sun gear 432 are arranged in the protective space.

[0063] Thus, placing both the sun gear 432 and the planetary gears 4332 within the protective space allows the meshing teeth of the planetary gear train to be located within the protective space, effectively preventing dust, dirt, and moisture from entering the gear system, reducing damage to the gears and gear wear, and extending the gear life. Furthermore, by encapsulating the gears, the noise generated during gear operation can be reduced, thereby improving the user's switching experience after the clutch component 40 is installed in the refrigerator. It is understood that lubricating grease can also be provided within the protective space to lubricate the transmission structure of the clutch component 40, reduce wear between the transmission structures, and improve the durability of the clutch component 40.

[0064] In addition, by encapsulating the planetary gear train through the protective space, the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 can realize mechanical clutch transmission through the planetary gear train, while the clutch component 40 can also make full use of the internal space of the bracket 431 to integrate the installation of gears, so that the structure of the clutch component 40 is more closely matched, which is conducive to improving the structural compactness of the clutch component 40.

[0065] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 2 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from one perspective. Figure 3 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from another perspective. In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the limiting portion 441 to limit the rotation of the bracket 431, the cover 4312 is provided with a matching portion 4313. When the limiting portion 441 is in the limiting state, it is connected to the matching portion 4313. When the limiting portion 441 is in the separated state, it is separated from the matching portion 4313.

[0066] It should be noted that, to facilitate the connection and fixation between the bracket 431 and the limiting portion 441, the bracket 431 and the limiting portion 441 can be configured to be plug-fitted. As an example, one of the matching portion 4313 and the limiting portion 441 is provided with a convex portion, and the matching portion 4313 and the limiting portion 441 are provided with a concave portion. When the limiting portion 441 is in the limited state, the convex portion and the concave portion are plug-fitted. In this way, when the limiting portion 441 is in the limited state, the convex portion and the concave portion can be interlocked with each other, so that the limiting portion 441 can be quickly plugged and fixed with the bracket 431, thereby limiting the rotation of the bracket 431 and realizing the linkage between the active member 41 and the driven member 42. When the limiting portion 441 is in the separated state, the convex portion can also be quickly disengaged from the concave portion, thereby releasing the rotation of the bracket 431, realizing the transmission disconnection between the active member 41 and the driven member 42, and the driven member 42 can rotate flexibly relative to the active member 41.

[0067] In addition, the contact area between the limiting portion 441 and the matching portion 4313 in the limiting state can be increased through the plug-in fit of the convex portion and the concave portion, thereby better limiting the rotation of the bracket 431 and improving the transmission reliability between the active member 41 and the driven member 42.

[0068] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Figure 2 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from one perspective. Figure 3 for Figure 1 The clutch component 40 is shown in an exploded view from another perspective. In some embodiments, the mating portion 4313 includes at least two retaining ribs, each of which is spaced apart along the rotational direction of the bracket 431. When the retaining portion 441 is in the restricted position, the retaining portion 441 is positioned between two adjacent retaining ribs and can press against either of the two adjacent retaining ribs to restrict the rotation of the bracket 431.

[0069] It should be noted that when the limiting portion 441 is disposed between two adjacent retaining ribs of the bracket 431, the retaining ribs can interfere with the limiting portion 441 in the rotational direction of the bracket 431, regardless of whether the motor 46 is in the forward or reverse rotation state, thereby limiting the rotation of the bracket 431 and achieving linkage between the active member 41 and the driven member 42. As an example, the bracket 431 can be configured in a disc shape, and the retaining ribs can be disposed along the radial direction of the disc and spaced apart along the circumference of the disc.

[0070] See also Figure 4 , Figure 4 for Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the clutch component along line AA is shown. In one embodiment, the rotating member 4331 comprises a rotating disk, and a plurality of planetary gears 4332 are provided, each of which is spaced apart along the circumference of the rotating disk. Distributing the planetary gears 4332 at intervals along the circumference of the rotating disk distributes the rotational load between the driving member 41 and the driven member 42 among the multiple planetary gears 4332, thereby reducing the load-bearing pressure on individual transmission gears and improving the load-bearing capacity and durability of the transmission assembly 43.

[0071] See also Figures 2 to 4 In some embodiments, to facilitate the driving member 41 driving the sun gear 432 to rotate, the clutch component 40 includes a motor 46. The driving member 41 can be connected to the output shaft of the motor 46 to be driven by the motor 46 for rotation. In addition, the driving member 41 and the output shaft of the motor 46 can be connected via a coupling, which is not limited by this disclosure.

[0072] In some embodiments, to facilitate the integrated installation of the motor 46 and the retractor 442, the retractor 442 and the motor 46 are spaced apart and arranged on the mounting member 45. It should be noted that the mounting member 45 can be configured as a housing or a supporting platform, and the retractor 442 and the motor 46 can be mounted on the mounting member 45.

[0073] See also Figure 5 , Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a transmission device 30 shown in one embodiment. Figure 11 The X direction may be the axial direction of the active member 41, and the Y direction may be the radial direction of the active member 41. In some embodiments, the present disclosure further provides a transmission device 30, comprising a bearing member 31, a telescopic assembly 32 and a clutch component 40 of any of the above embodiments, wherein the clutch component 40 includes a motor 46 that is transmission-connected to the active member 41. The bearing member 31 includes a first end 311 and a second end 312 arranged opposite to the first end 311. The motor 46 is arranged at the first end 311, and the motor 46 includes an output end transmission-connected to the active member 41. The telescopic assembly 32 includes a rotating member 321 rotatably arranged on the bearing member 31 and a telescopic member 322 cooperating with the rotating member 321, and the rotating member 321 is transmission-connected to the driven member 42. In the limited state, the motor 46 can drive the telescopic member 322 to move toward or away from the second end 312 through the clutch component 40. In the separated state, the motor 46 is disconnected from the telescopic assembly 32.

[0074] See also Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of a cabinet device formed by assembling a drawer and a cabinet of a refrigerator shown in one embodiment. Figure 7 for Figure 6The structure diagram of the drawer is shown in FIG. 1 . In order to better understand the assembly relationship between the box 20 and the drawer 50, the present disclosure Figure 6 Partially illustrating the housing 20, the structure is omitted. In this embodiment, the housing device comprises the housing 20, a drawer 50, and the transmission device 30 described in the above embodiment. The housing 20 defines a storage cavity 21, within which the drawer 50 is retractably positioned. A support member 31 is secured to the housing 20, and a retractable member 322 is connected to the drawer 50 to drive its movement relative to the housing 20.

[0075] It should be noted that when the transmission device 30 provided by the present disclosure is applied to a cabinet device, the transmission device 30 can be installed between the drawer 50 and the cabinet 20 of the refrigerator 1 to realize automatic opening and manual opening of the drawer 50. Among them, the supporting member 31 is fixed to the cabinet 20, and the telescopic member 322 is connected to the drawer 50 to drive the drawer 50 to move relative to the cabinet 20. The first end 311 and the second end 312 of the supporting member 31 can be spaced apart in the direction shown by X in the figure. When the clutch component 40 is in a limited state, the motor 46 is connected to the telescopic assembly 32 through the clutch component 40, and the motor 46 can drive the telescopic member 322 to move toward or away from the second end 312 to realize the electrically driven automatic opening and closing of the drawer 50. When the clutch component 40 is in a disengaged state, the motor 46 disconnects the transmission from the telescopic component 32 through the clutch component 40, and the user can manually open and close the drawer 50 without dragging the motor 46 end to rotate, so that the manual opening and closing drawer 50 and the electric opening and closing drawer 50 do not interfere with each other. This can reduce the manual load, and the user can open and close the drawer 50 with less effort, thereby improving the user experience.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, to facilitate converting the rotation of the motor 46 into a driving force for extending and retracting the drawer 50, the telescopic assembly 32 may include a rotating member 321 rotatably disposed on the carrier 31 and a telescopic member 322 cooperating with the rotating member 321. The rotating member 321 is connected to the output shaft of the clutch component 40, and the telescopic member 322 is connected to the drawer 50. When the clutch component 40 is in a limited position, the motor 46 is in transmission connection with the telescopic assembly 32 to drive the telescopic member 322 to reciprocate along the rotating member 321, thereby driving the drawer 50 to open and close, so that the drawer 50 is opened or closed electrically. When the clutch component 40 is in a disengaged state, the motor 46 and the telescopic assembly 32 are disconnected from the transmission, and the user can manually open and close the drawer 50, and the drawer 50 can drive the telescopic member 322 to move back and forth along the rotating member 321. However, since the telescopic assembly 32 and the motor 46 are disconnected due to the clutch component 40, the telescopic assembly 32 will not transmit the motion to the motor 46 end. Therefore, when the user manually opens and closes the drawer 50, there is no need to drive the motor 46 end to rotate, so as to reduce the switching resistance.

[0077] As an example, the telescopic assembly 32 can be configured as a screw-nut kinematic pair, wherein the rotating member 321 can be configured as a screw, and the telescopic member 322 can be configured as a nut threadedly connected to the screw. Through the threaded transmission between the screw and the nut, the rotation is converted into linear motion, and the rotation of the motor 46 is then converted into the driving force for opening and closing the drawer 50.

[0078] See also Figure 8 , Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a transmission device shown in another embodiment. Figure 8 The X direction can be the axial direction of the active member 41, and the Y direction can be the radial direction of the active member 41. In other embodiments, the transmission device 30 further includes a linkage mechanism 33 and a drive rod 34. The linkage mechanism 33 includes a first mounting member 331, a second mounting member 332, and a linkage assembly 333 disposed between the first mounting member 331 and the second mounting member 332. The second mounting member 332 swings relative to the first mounting member 331 via the linkage assembly 333. The drive rod 34 is connected to the telescopic member 322. A connecting notch is defined at the second end 312. The drive rod 34 passes through the connecting notch and is movably connected to the linkage mechanism 33 to drive the second mounting member 332 to swing relative to the first mounting member 331.

[0079] See also Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator cabinet assembly formed by assembling the door and cabinet of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the cabinet assembly includes a cabinet 20, a door 10 rotatably connected to the cabinet, and the transmission device 30 described in the above embodiment. The cabinet 20 is connected to a first mounting member 331, and the door 10 is connected to a second mounting member 332.

[0080] It should be noted that when the transmission device 30 provided by the present disclosure is applied to a refrigerator, the connecting rod mechanism 33 can be installed between the refrigerator door 10 and the refrigerator body 20. The telescopic assembly 32 drives the driving rod 34 to drive the connecting rod mechanism 33 to move, thereby realizing the automatic opening and closing of the refrigerator door 10. Specifically, the refrigerator body 20 can be connected to the first mounting member 331, and the refrigerator door 10 can be connected to the second mounting member 332. The connecting rod assembly 333 is connected between the first mounting member 331 and the second mounting member 332 and is driven by the telescopic assembly 32. The connecting notch of the carrier 31 allows the driving rod 34 to connect to the telescopic member 322. When the clutch component 40 is in a limited position, the motor 46 is in transmission connection with the telescopic assembly 32. The motor 46 can drive the rotating member 321 to move the telescopic member 322. The telescopic member 322 drives the driving rod 34 to move the connecting rod assembly 333, causing the second mounting member 332 to swing relative to the first mounting member 331. This allows the door 10 to be opened or closed relative to the cabinet 20 by the motor 46, thereby realizing automatic opening and closing of the refrigerator 1. When the clutch component 40 is in a disengaged state, the motor 46 is disconnected from the telescopic assembly 32, and the user can manually open or close the door 10 without dragging the motor 46 end to rotate. This reduces the manual load, allowing the user to open or close the door 10 with less effort and preventing the rotation of the motor 46 from interfering with the user's manual opening and closing of the door.

[0081] Furthermore, to accommodate the rotational installation between the door 10 and the housing 20, the connecting rod assembly 333 may be integrated with the hinge assembly between the door 10 and the housing 20, but this disclosure does not limit this. Furthermore, a coupling 35 or a gear reduction box may be provided between the clutch component 40 and the output shaft of the motor 46, but this disclosure does not elaborate on this.

[0082] See also Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 8 Figure 3 shows the structure of the transmission device encapsulated by a carrier. In some embodiments, to enhance the aesthetics of the transmission device 30 when installed in a box, the carrier 31 can be configured as a shell. The carrier 31 can encapsulate the transmission device 30. This shields various components of the transmission device 30, creating a neat appearance. Furthermore, the carrier 31 can be used to protect or lubricate the internal structure of the transmission device 30.

[0083] In some embodiments, the present disclosure further provides a refrigerator 1, comprising a control device and the above-mentioned cabinet device. The cabinet device may include a cabinet 20, a drawer 50, and a transmission device 30. Alternatively, the cabinet device may include a cabinet 20, a cabinet door 10, and a transmission device 30 with a connecting rod mechanism 33. Alternatively, the cabinet device may include a cabinet 20, a cabinet door 10, a drawer 50, a transmission device 30 connected between the cabinet 20 and the drawer 50, and a transmission device 30 connected between the cabinet 20 and the cabinet door 10, and the present disclosure does not limit this.

[0084] The control device is in communication with the motor 46. Thus, the refrigerator 1 provided by the present disclosure can realize intelligent automatic opening and closing between the door 10 and the housing 20, or between the housing 20 and the drawer 50, through a mechanical clutch transmission method, while not interfering with the user's manual opening and closing of the door 10, reducing the resistance of the user to manual opening and closing of the door 10, and improving the user experience.

[0085] It should be noted that the control device includes a controller built into the refrigerator 1, such as an MCU (microcontroller unit), a PLC (programmable logic controller), a CPU (central processing unit), or a single-chip microcomputer. In this way, the controller built into the refrigerator 1 can be linked to the start and stop of the motor 46, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0086] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 1 may further include other movable parts such as the door 10 and the drawer 50 that move relative to the housing 20. Thus, by installing the transmission device 30 between the housing 20 and the movable parts, the movable parts can be automatically opened and manually opened relative to the housing 20, which is not limited in this disclosure.

[0087] It is understood that when the limiting portion 441 is in the limiting state, the active member 41 can drive the driven member 42 to rotate. When the limiting portion 441 is in the disengaged state, the driven member 42 can rotate relative to the active member 41, thereby achieving manual operation. Compared to other electric clutches or electromagnetic clutches, the mechanical clutch of the present application can achieve automatic and manual opening and closing of the active member relative to the housing 20, reducing the number of power devices and sensor components, which helps reduce the cost of the refrigerator 1.

[0088] See also Figures 11 to 13 , Figure 11 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigerator shown in an embodiment. Figure 12 for Figure 11 The refrigerator shown is a half-section view of the CC. Figure 13 for Figure 11 Refrigerator Refrigeration Principle Diagram shown. In some embodiments, refrigerator 1 further includes a compressor 60, a condenser 70, an evaporator 80, and a throttle assembly 90. The housing 20 also includes a storage cavity 21, which includes a refrigerated compartment 211 and a frozen compartment 212. The compressor 60, condenser 70, evaporator 80, and throttle assembly 90 are respectively disposed in the housing 20, with at least a portion of the evaporator 80 disposed within the frozen compartment 212.

[0089] Combine Figure 13As shown, when refrigerator 1 is in operation, compressor 60 outputs high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant to condenser 70, where it is condensed into medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant undergoes expansion and throttling by throttling assembly 90, further reducing its pressure and temperature. It then flows out of throttling assembly 90 as low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant to evaporator 80. The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant evaporates into gaseous refrigerant within evaporator 80. At least a portion of evaporator 80 is located within freezer compartment 212, allowing the refrigerant to absorb a significant amount of heat from freezer compartment 212 during evaporation, thereby lowering the temperature within freezer compartment 212 and facilitating the use of freezer compartment 212 to freeze items, achieving refrigeration in refrigerator 1. The refrigerant exiting evaporator 80 is then replenished back into compressor 60, forming a refrigerant circuit. In this manner, the refrigerant continuously circulates within the refrigerant circuit to maintain a refrigerated environment (e.g., below -1°C) within freezer compartment 212.

[0090] In some embodiments, an air duct is provided between the refrigerating chamber 211 and the freezing chamber 212 to facilitate the transfer of part of the cold air from the freezing chamber 212 to the refrigerating chamber 211 through the air duct to reduce or maintain the low temperature environment of the refrigerating chamber 211 (e.g., 2°C to 8°C).

[0091] In some embodiments, the freezer compartment 212 is positioned below the refrigerator compartment 211 along the height of the refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 further includes a first fan (not labeled) disposed within the housing 20 assembly. The first fan's air inlet or outlet is connected to an air duct for transferring some of the cold air from the freezer compartment 212 to the refrigerator compartment 211. The drawer 50 may be disposed within the refrigerator compartment 211 and / or the freezer compartment 212, but this disclosure does not limit this.

[0092] like Figure 12 As shown, the height direction of the refrigerator 1 is the Z-axis direction. Regarding other structures of the refrigerator 1, this disclosure does not elaborate on them.

[0093] It should be noted that when one element is considered to be "transmission-connected" to another element, the two elements can be fixed in a detachable or non-detachable manner, as long as they can achieve force transmission. For example, shaft connection, sleeve connection, snap connection, integral molding fixation, welding, etc. can be achieved in traditional technologies and can be flexibly selected according to actual application needs. For example, one element is provided with a non-cylindrical body, and the other element is provided with a mating hole for transmission cooperation with the non-cylindrical body. Non-cylindrical bodies include polygonal cylinders, elliptical cylinders, semi-cylinders, etc., which will not be described in detail in this disclosure.

[0094] The technical solutions or technical features described in the above embodiments may be combined or supplemented with each other without conflict. The scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described in the above embodiments and shown in the accompanying drawings. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure shall be included in the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A clutch component, characterized in that: include: Active parts; follower; A transmission assembly, comprising a bracket, a sun gear rotatably mounted on the bracket, and a planetary gear set rotatably mounted on the bracket, wherein the bracket is provided with an annular internal gear, the sun gear is in transmission connection with the driving member, the planetary gear set comprises a rotating member in transmission connection with the driven member, and planetary gears rotatably mounted on the rotating member, the planetary gears meshing with the annular internal gear and the sun gear; as well as A driver comprising a limiting portion movable relative to the bracket, the limiting portion having a limiting state in which the limiting portion is engaged with the bracket for preventing rotation and a separation state in which the limiting portion is separated from the bracket; When the limiting portion is in the limiting state, the active member can drive the driven member to rotate through the planetary gear set; When the limiting portion is in the disengaged state, the planetary gears and the annular internal gear can revolve around the sun gear, so that the driven member can rotate relative to the driving member.

2. The clutch component according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driver further includes a telescoping device, and the limiting portion is fixedly arranged at the telescopic end of the telescoping device.

3. The clutch component according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bracket further includes a cover plate connected to the annular internal gear to form a protective space, and the planetary gear set and the sun gear are arranged in the protective space; The cover plate is provided with a matching portion, and the limiting portion is connected to the matching portion when it is in the limiting state, and is separated from the matching portion when it is in the separation state.

4. The clutch component according to claim 3, characterized in that: The matching portion includes at least two blocking ribs, each of which is arranged at intervals along the rotation direction of the bracket; in the limiting state of the limiting portion, the limiting portion is arranged between two adjacent blocking ribs and can press against any one of the two adjacent blocking ribs to limit the rotation of the bracket; Alternatively, one of the mating portion and the limiting portion is provided with a convex portion, and the other of the mating portion and the limiting portion is provided with a concave portion; in the limited state of the limiting portion, the convex portion is plugged into and mated with the concave portion; in the separated state of the limiting portion, the convex portion is separated from the concave portion.

5. The clutch component according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating member includes a rotating disk, and a plurality of planetary gears are provided, and the planetary gears are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the rotating disk.

6. The clutch component according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clutch component includes a mounting member and a motor. The driver and the motor are arranged on the mounting member at intervals. The output shaft of the motor is in transmission connection with the active member.

7. A transmission device, characterized in that: It comprises a bearing member, a telescopic assembly and the clutch component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the clutch component comprises a motor transmission-connected to the driving member; The bearing member includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to the first end; The motor is arranged at the first end, and the motor includes an output end which is transmission-connected to the active member; The telescopic assembly includes a rotating member rotatably arranged on the bearing member and a telescopic member cooperating with the rotating member, and the rotating member is transmission-connected to the driven member; In the limited state, the motor can drive the telescopic member to move toward or away from the second end through the clutch component; In the separated state, the motor and the telescopic assembly are disconnected from each other.

8. The transmission device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The transmission device further includes a connecting rod mechanism and a driving rod; the connecting rod mechanism includes a first mounting member, a second mounting member, and a connecting rod assembly disposed between the first mounting member and the second mounting member, and the second mounting member swings relative to the first mounting member via the connecting rod assembly; The driving rod is connected to the telescopic member, and a connecting notch is provided at the second end. The driving rod passes through the connecting notch and is movably connected to the connecting rod mechanism to drive the second mounting member to swing relative to the first mounting member.

9. A box device, characterized in that, It comprises a box body, a box door rotatably connected to the box body, and the transmission device according to claim 8; the box body is connected to the first mounting member, and the box door is connected to the second mounting member.

10. A box device, characterized in that: It comprises a box body, a drawer and the transmission device according to claim 7, wherein the box body is provided with a storage cavity, the drawer is telescopically arranged in the storage cavity, the supporting member is fixed to the box body, and the telescopic member is connected to the drawer to drive the drawer to move relative to the box body.

11. A refrigerator, characterized in that: It comprises a control device and the box equipment according to claim 9 or 10; the control device is communicatively connected with the motor.

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