A valve body assembly, a liquid supply device, and a refrigerator

Abstract

The application discloses a valve body assembly, a liquid supply device and a refrigerator. The valve body assembly comprises a first pipe body, a second pipe body, a third pipe body and a valve core. The second pipe body is arranged in a spaced mode relative to the first pipe body. The third pipe body is made of a deformable material. One end of the third pipe body is communicated with the first pipe body, and the other end of the third pipe body is communicated with the second pipe body. The valve core is at least partially located in the second pipe body. The second pipe body can move towards or away from the first pipe body, so that the second pipe body is deformed, and the valve core is opened or closed relative to the first pipe body. The valve body assembly provided by the application realizes a non-nested design of the valve body through the third pipe body made of the deformable material, thereby reducing the probability of residual liquid in the valve body assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of home appliance technology, and in particular relates to a valve body assembly, a liquid supply device, and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, valve bodies typically employ a nested design, where a first tube is fitted over the outer periphery of a second tube, forming a sliding connection. The first tube contains a valve core assembly. As the first tube slides, it drives the valve core assembly to open or close the second tube, thus controlling the valve's operation. However, because the first and second tubes are slidably connected, a narrow gap inevitably exists between the portion of the second tube fitted over the first tube and the outer wall of the first tube. This narrow gap often traps accumulated liquid that is difficult to remove. This accumulated liquid not only easily develops a foul odor but can also contaminate subsequent liquids flowing through the valve, thus affecting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a valve body assembly, a liquid supply device, and a refrigerator, which can reduce residual liquid inside the valve body assembly.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a valve body assembly, including:

[0005] first tube body;

[0006] The second tube is spaced apart from the first tube.

[0007] The third tube is made of a deformable material; one end of the third tube is connected to the first tube, and the other end of the third tube is connected to the second tube.

[0008] The valve core is at least partially located within the second tube body;

[0009] The second tube can move toward or away from the first tube to deform the second tube and to open or close the first tube.

[0010] Optionally, at least one of the first tube and the second tube is detachably connected to the third tube.

[0011] Optionally, the first tube body is provided with a first slot at one end near the third tube body, and one end of the third tube body is engaged in the first slot.

[0012] Optionally, the first slot is an annular groove, and the first slot is disposed around the outer wall of the first tube body;

[0013] The third tube is made of an elastic material, and the edge of the third tube near the first tube is fully engaged with the first slot to form a seal.

[0014] Optionally, the second tube body is provided with a second slot at one end near the third tube body, and one end of the third tube body is engaged in the second slot.

[0015] Optionally, the second slot is an annular groove, and the second slot is disposed around the outer wall of the second tube body;

[0016] The third tube is made of an elastic material, and the end edge of the third tube near the second tube is fully engaged with the second slot to form a seal.

[0017] Optionally, at least a portion of the axial region of the third tube body protrudes outward in a direction away from the axis of the third tube body; and / or

[0018] At least a portion of the axial region of the third tube is concave inward toward the axis of the third tube.

[0019] Optionally, the valve core includes:

[0020] The first support rod is at least partially disposed within the second tube; and

[0021] The first piston is mounted and fixed to the first support rod;

[0022] The second tube can move toward the first tube to drive the first support rod to move, thereby causing the first piston to open the first tube.

[0023] Optionally, at least one of the inner walls of the first tube and the second tube may slide in conjunction with the first support rod.

[0024] Optionally, the inner wall of the first tube is provided with a first groove;

[0025] The inner wall of the second tube is provided with a second sliding groove;

[0026] The outer periphery of the first support rod is provided with a sliding part, which is partially slidably installed in the first slide groove and partially slidably installed in the second slide groove.

[0027] Optionally, the inner wall of the first tube is provided with a circumferential annular rib;

[0028] The first piston is at least partially located on the side of the annular rib away from the sliding portion;

[0029] The valve core further includes a first elastic element, which abuts against the sliding portion and the annular rib to push the first piston against the annular rib, thereby closing the first tube.

[0030] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a liquid supply device, including a valve body assembly as described in any of the above.

[0031] Optionally, the liquid supply device further includes:

[0032] Mounting base; and

[0033] A liquid container, detachably connected to the mounting base;

[0034] The first tube is disposed on the mounting base and communicates with the liquid container.

[0035] Optionally, the liquid supply device further includes a liquid container, with the first tube disposed at the outlet of the liquid container.

[0036] Optionally, the liquid supply device includes at least one of a water dispenser, a nebulizer, and a humidifier.

[0037] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a refrigerator, including a liquid supply device as described above.

[0038] In this embodiment, since the first tube and the second tube are connected by a deformable second tube, there is no need for a nested design between the first tube and the second tube. This avoids the accumulation of liquid in the narrow gap between the outer wall of the first tube and the inner wall of the second tube, thus preventing the accumulated liquid from easily becoming smelly and contaminating the liquid flowing through the valve body assembly, thereby improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The technical solution and its beneficial effects will become apparent from the following detailed description of specific embodiments of this application, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a valve body assembly provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first tube of the valve body assembly shown.

[0042] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the third tube of the valve body assembly shown.

[0043] Figure 4 for Figure 1The diagram shows the structure of the second tube and valve core of the valve body assembly.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a liquid supply device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Front view of the liquid supply device shown.

[0046] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The liquid supply device shown is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0047] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of the area at point X in the image.

[0048] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the second sealing component.

[0049] Figure 10 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the abutment component.

[0050] Figure 11 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the first sealing component.

[0051] Figure 12 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the liquid supply device shown.

[0052] Figure 13 for Figure 12 An exploded view of the liquid container.

[0053] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 15 for Figure 14 The diagram shows the structure of the refrigerator door.

[0055] Figure 16 for Figure 15 The cross-sectional view along the BB direction at the box door shown.

[0056] Figure 17 for Figure 14 The diagram shows the connection between the pressure rod and the valve body assembly in the refrigerator.

[0057] The labels in the diagram are as follows:

[0058] 100. Liquid supply device;

[0059] 11. Valve body assembly; 111. First tube body; 1111. First slot; 1112. First slide groove; 1113. Third protrusion; 112. Second tube body; 1121. Second slot; 1122. Second slide groove; 1123. Pushing part; 113. Third tube body; 1131. First folded edge; 1132. Second folded edge; 114. Valve core; 1141. First support rod; 11411. 1142. Sliding part; 1143. First piston; 1144. First elastic element; 12. Mounting base; 121. Liquid outlet channel; 122. First annular part; 123. Second annular part; 124. Storage box; 1241. First limiting rib; 125. Support part; 1251. First limiting protrusion; 126. Connecting part; 1261. Tongue; 13. Liquid container; 131. Box body; 1311. First 1312. Receiving cavity; 1313. First outlet; 1314. Third annular part; 1315. Base; 1316. Second limiting rib; 1317. Third slot; 1318. Second outlet; 1319. First handle; 132. Cover; 1321. Second handle; 14. First sealing component; 141. Second piston; 1411. First inclined surface; 1412. Second inclined surface; 142. Second support rod; 143. Second elastic element; 144. Third annular body; 145. Second connecting rib; 15. Second sealing component; 151. Annular body; 152. Third protruding edge; 153. First protruding edge; 154. Second protruding edge; 16. Abutment; 161. Mounting part; 1611. Step; 1612. Second annular body; 1613. First connecting rib; 162. Top rod; 17. Pressure rod;

[0060] 200. Box body;

[0061] 300. Box door;

[0062] 31. Water intake trough. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0064] In related technologies, valve bodies typically employ a nested design, where a first tube is fitted over the outer periphery of a second tube, forming a sliding connection. The first tube contains a valve core assembly. As the first tube slides, it drives the valve core assembly to open or close the second tube, thus controlling the valve's operation. However, because the first and second tubes are slidably connected, a narrow gap inevitably exists between the portion of the second tube fitted over the first tube and the outer wall of the first tube. This narrow gap often traps accumulated liquid that is difficult to remove. This accumulated liquid not only easily develops a foul odor but can also contaminate subsequent liquids flowing through the valve, thus affecting the user experience.

[0065] Based on this, this application provides a valve body assembly 11, which can be used in refrigerators, other household appliances, or any kind of liquid supply device. This application does not limit this application.

[0066] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a valve body assembly provided in an embodiment of this application. The valve body assembly 11 may include a first tube 111, a second tube 112, a third tube 113, and a valve core 114.

[0067] The second tube 112 is spaced apart from the first tube 111. The third tube 113 is made of a deformable material, with one end connected to the first tube 111 and the other end connected to the second tube 112, so that the first tube 111, the third tube 113, and the second tube 112 are sequentially connected. The valve core 114 is at least partially located within the second tube 112. The second tube 112 is capable of moving towards or away from the first tube 111, thereby deforming the second tube 112 and causing the valve core 114 to open or close the first tube 111.

[0068] Since the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 are connected by the deformable second tube 112, there is no need for a nested design between the first tube 111 and the second tube 112. This avoids the accumulation of liquid in the narrow gap between the outer wall of the first tube 111 and the inner wall of the second tube 112, thus preventing the accumulated liquid from easily becoming smelly and contaminating the liquid flowing through the valve body assembly 11, thereby improving the user experience.

[0069] It is understood that the first tube 111, the second tube 112, and the third tube 113 described above can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first tube 111, the second tube 112, and the third tube 113 can be separately formed; for example, at least one of the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 can be non-detachably connected and fixed to the third tube 113 through welding, fusion, or other methods; or, at least one of the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 can be detachably connected and fixed to the third tube 113 through a third slot connection, clamp locking, threaded connection, or other methods. This application does not limit the specifics of these methods.

[0070] The technical solution of this application embodiment will be illustrated below by taking the example of at least one of the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 being detachably connected to the third tube 113.

[0071] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 2 , Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the first tube of the valve body assembly. In some embodiments, the first tube 111 has a first slot 1111 at one end near the third tube 113. One end of the third tube 113 is engaged in the first slot 1111, thereby achieving a detachable connection between the first tube 111 and the third tube 113.

[0072] Understandably, since the first pipe body 111 and the third pipe body 113 are detachably connected, they can be disassembled after a period of use. This allows for convenient cleaning of the inner walls of the first pipe body 111, the second pipe body 112, and the third pipe body 113, preventing scale buildup and other issues that could negatively impact the user experience. Furthermore, the detachable connection between the first pipe body 111 and the third pipe body 113 also facilitates easier disassembly and replacement of components such as the valve core 114, the first pipe body 111, the second pipe body 112, and the third pipe body 113 if they are damaged.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first slot 1111 is an annular groove. The first slot 1111 is disposed around the outer side wall of the first tube 111. The third tube 113 is made of elastic material, and the edge of the third tube 113 near the first tube 111 is fully engaged with the first slot 1111 to form a seal.

[0074] Therefore, based on the elasticity of the third tube 113 itself, the third tube 113 can achieve relative movement between the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 through elastic expansion and contraction, and can also achieve sealing at the connection between the first tube 111 and the third tube 113, so that the overall structure of the valve body assembly is simpler, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the valve body and the difficulty of disassembly and assembly.

[0075] Please combine Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the third tube of the valve body assembly. Specifically, the first tube 111 near the third tube 113 may have two annular first protrusions, and a first groove 1111 may be formed between the two first protrusions and the outer wall of the first tube 111. Correspondingly, the third tube 113 near the first tube 111 has a first flange 1131 protruding towards the axis of the first tube 111, and the first flange 1131 is engaged in the first groove 1111 to achieve a snap-fit ​​fixation.

[0076] In some embodiments, the valve body assembly 11 may further include a first fastener. The first fastener is sleeved on the end of the third tube 113 near the first tube 111 to press and fix the third tube 113 to the outer wall of the first tube 111, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the first tube 111 and the third tube 113, and improving the sealing effect between the first tube 111 and the third tube 113.

[0077] For example, the first fastener can be a clamp, a folding strap, a binding piece, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0078] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 4 , Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the second tube and the valve core of the valve body assembly. In some embodiments, the second tube 112 has a second slot 1121 at one end near the third tube 113. One end of the third tube 113 is engaged in the second slot 1121, thereby achieving a detachable connection between the second tube 112 and the third tube 113.

[0079] Understandably, since the second pipe body 112 and the third pipe body 113 are detachably connected, they can be disassembled after a certain period of use to clean the inner walls of the first pipe body 111, the second pipe body 112, and the third pipe body 113, thus preventing scale buildup and other issues from affecting user experience. Furthermore, because the first pipe body 111 and the third pipe body 113 are also detachably connected, damage to components such as the valve core 114, the first pipe body 111, the second pipe body 112, and the third pipe body 113 can be more easily repaired and replaced.

[0080] In some embodiments, the second slot 1121 is an annular groove. The second slot 1121 is disposed around the outer side wall of the second tube 112. The third tube 113 is made of elastic material, and the edge of the third tube 113 near the second tube 112 is fully engaged with the second slot 1121 to form a seal.

[0081] Therefore, based on the elasticity of the third tube 113 itself, the third tube 113 can achieve relative movement between the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 through elastic expansion and contraction, and can also achieve sealing at the connection between the second tube 112 and the third tube 113, so as to simplify the overall structure of the valve body and reduce the manufacturing cost and disassembly difficulty of the valve body.

[0082] Specifically, the second tube 112 may have two annular second protrusions at one end near the third tube 113, and a second groove 1121 may be formed between the two second protrusions and the outer wall of the second tube 112. Correspondingly, the third tube 113 has a second flange 1132 protruding towards the axis of the second tube 112 at one end, and the second flange 1132 is engaged in the second groove 1121 to achieve a snap-fit ​​fixation.

[0083] In some embodiments, the valve body assembly 11 may further include a second fastener. The second fastener is sleeved on the end of the third tube 113 near the second tube 112 to press and fix the third tube 113 to the outer wall of the second tube 112, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the second tube 112 and the third tube 113, and improving the sealing effect between the second tube 112 and the third tube 113.

[0084] For example, the second fastener can be a clamp, a folding strap, a binding piece, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0085] It is also understandable that a chamfer may be provided between the end face of the second pipe 112 facing the first pipe 111 and the inner wall, thereby reducing the water accumulation on the end face of the second pipe 112 facing the first pipe 111.

[0086] The above are some examples illustrating the detachable connection structure of the third tube 113 in the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that in actual use, among the first tube 111, the second tube 112, and the third tube 113, only the third tube 113 may be detachably connected to the first tube 111, only the second tube 112 and the third tube 113 may be detachably connected, or both the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 may be detachably connected to the third tube 113. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0087] Below, we will continue to illustrate some other structures of the third tube 113 with examples.

[0088] In some embodiments, the third tube 113 may be made of materials such as rubber or silicone, thereby giving the third tube 113 good elasticity or deformability and also providing a good sealing effect. Of course, in some other embodiments, the third tube 113 may also be made of other types of elastic materials, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0089] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the axial region of the third tube 113 protrudes outward in a direction away from the axis of the third tube 113. This allows the third tube 113 to be compressed and deformed from the protruding portion with a smaller force, so as to facilitate and reduce the effort required to drive the second tube 112 relative to the first tube 111 to open or close the valve body.

[0090] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the axial region of the third tube 113 is concave inward toward the axis of the third tube 113. This allows for compression deformation of the third tube 113 with less force, facilitating easier and less effort to drive the second tube 112 relative to the first tube 111 to open or close the valve.

[0091] Specifically, the third tube 113 may be a region in the axial direction that protrudes outwards away from the axis of the third tube 113, or a region in the axial direction that is concave inwards towards the axis of the third tube 113, or a region in the axial direction that is concave inwards towards the axis of the third tube 113, and a region in the axial direction that is concave inwards towards the axis of the third tube 113.

[0092] For example, in some embodiments, the portion of the third tube 113 located between the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 protrudes outward only in a direction away from the axis of the third tube 113.

[0093] Furthermore, on the one hand, this allows the third tube 113 to deform outwards during compression, thus preventing it from deforming inwards and causing it to close or interfere with the valve core 114. On the other hand, having only one outwardly convex structure on the sidewall of the third tube 113 avoids having too many concave and convex structures, which would result in lower strength and reliability of the third tube 113, thereby improving the reliability of the entire valve assembly 11.

[0094] The above are some examples of the third pipe body 113 in the embodiments of this application. The valve core 114 in the embodiments of this application will be further illustrated and explained below.

[0095] For example, the valve core 114 may include a first support rod 1141 and a first piston 1142. The first support rod 1141 is at least partially disposed within the second tube 112. The first piston 1142 is mounted and fixed to the first support rod 1141. The second tube 112 is movable toward the first tube 111 to drive the first support rod 1141 to move, thereby causing the first piston 1142 to open the first tube 111.

[0096] In some embodiments, to enable the first piston 1142 to open or close the first tube 111 more accurately, at least one of the inner walls of the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 is in sliding engagement with the first support rod 1141. This makes the sliding trajectory of the first support rod 1141 more precise and reliable.

[0097] It is also understandable that, since the third tube 113, which connects the first tube 111 and the second tube 112, is made of a deformable material, when the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 are simultaneously slidably connected to the first support rod 1141, the first support rod 1141 can make the connection between the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 more reliable. For example, when the first tube 111 is fixed, the second tube 112 will not sag due to the deformation of the third tube 113, thus ensuring the coaxiality of the first tube 111 and the second tube 112.

[0098] For example, the inner wall of the first tube 111 is provided with a first groove 1112, and the outer periphery of the first support rod 1141 is provided with a sliding part 11411, which slides in cooperation with the first groove 1112.

[0099] Specifically, the first groove 1112 and the sliding part 11411 can both extend along the axial direction of the first tube 111.

[0100] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the second tube 112 is provided with a second sliding groove 1122, and the outer periphery of the first support rod 1141 is provided with a sliding part 11411, which slides in cooperation with the second sliding groove 1122.

[0101] Specifically, the second groove 1122 and the sliding part 11411 can both extend along the axial direction of the first tube 111.

[0102] It is also understood that the first groove 1112 may be provided only on the inner wall of the first tube 111, or the second groove 1122 may be provided only on the inner wall of the second tube 112, or the first groove 1112 may be provided on the inner wall of the first tube 111 and the second groove 1122 may be provided on the inner wall of the second tube 112. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0103] In other words, the sliding part 11411 can be partially slidably installed in the first slide groove 1112 and partially slidably installed in the second slide groove 1122.

[0104] At this time, the first support rod can be simultaneously inserted into the first tube 111, the second tube 112, and the third tube 113.

[0105] On the one hand, since the third tube 113 is made of a deformable material, the sliding part 11411 is slidably installed in the first slide groove 1112 and the second slide groove 1122 respectively, which can prevent one end of the third tube 113 from being twisted relative to the other end, thereby ensuring the reliability of the valve body assembly 11 operation.

[0106] On the other hand, during the assembly process, the sliding part 11411 is slidably installed in the first sliding groove 1112 and the second sliding groove 1122 respectively, which can play a good role in preventing the second tube body 112 from having angular errors along its circumference, thereby ensuring that the form and position tolerances of the valve body assembly 11 are more controllable during the assembly process.

[0107] For example, the outlet of the end of the second pipe 112 away from the third pipe 113 can be downward to facilitate water collection by the user. Then, by sliding the sliding part 11411 onto the first slide groove 1112 and the second slide groove 1122 respectively, it can be avoided that the outlet of the second pipe 112 away from the third pipe 113 is tilted downward or facing in other directions after completion.

[0108] For example, in the actual assembly process, the first support rod 1141 can be installed on the first tube 111 first; then, the third tube 113 and the second tube 112 can be sequentially fitted onto the first support rod 1141, so that the outlet of the second tube 112 is vertically downward; then, the second tube 112 can be snapped onto the first tube 111 and the second tube 112 respectively, thereby completing the assembly of the valve body assembly 11.

[0109] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the first tube 111 has a third protrusion 1113 that circumferentially surrounds the tube. The first piston 1142 is at least partially located on the side of the third protrusion 1113 away from the sliding portion 11411.

[0110] The valve core 114 also includes a first elastic element 1143, which abuts against the sliding part 11411 and the third protrusion 1113 to push the first piston 1142 against the third protrusion 1113, thereby closing the first tube 111.

[0111] Specifically, the first elastic element 1143 can be a helical compression spring or other elastic elements, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0112] In actual operation, the second tube 112 can be driven by other forces to approach the first tube 111. As the second tube 112 approaches the first tube 111, it pushes the first support rod 1141 to move, causing the first piston 1142 to separate from the third protrusion 1113, and compressing the first elastic element 1143 and the third tube 113, thereby opening the first tube 111. When the force is removed, the first elastic element 1143 returns to its original position, and the third tube 113 expands, thereby pushing the first support rod 1141 back to its original position, causing the first piston 1142 to abut against the third protrusion 1113 again, and causing the second tube 112 to move away from the first tube 111, thus closing the first tube 111 again.

[0113] It is also understood that in some other embodiments, the first support rod 1141 may be snapped onto the inner wall of the second tube 112, or the first support rod 1141 may be integrally formed into the inner wall of the second tube 112. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0114] The above are some illustrative examples of the valve body assembly 11 provided in the embodiments of this application. Please continue to refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a liquid supply device provided in an embodiment of this application. This application also provides a liquid supply device 100, which includes any of the valve body components 11 described above.

[0115] Specifically, the liquid supply device 100 may include at least one of a water dispenser, a nebulizer, and a humidifier, but this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0116] The liquid supply device 100 can be used in a refrigerator, or in other equipment, or it can be used independently. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0117] In some embodiments, the liquid supply device 100 may further include a mounting base 12 and a liquid container 13. The liquid container 13 is detachably connected to the mounting base 12. A first tube 111 is disposed on the mounting base 12 and communicates with the liquid container 13, so that liquid within the liquid container 13 can be discharged through the valve assembly 11.

[0118] Therefore, on the one hand, the liquid container 13 can be easily removed from the mounting base 12 for cleaning and maintenance; on the other hand, since the second pipe 112 and the third pipe 113 can also be detachable, multiple parts of the water path formed from the liquid container 13 to the third pipe 113 can be detached for cleaning and maintenance, so as to avoid scale or water accumulation in the water path formed from the liquid container 13 to the third pipe 113, thereby improving the user experience.

[0119] The first tube 111 may be integrally formed on the mounting base 12. The first tube 111 and the mounting base 12 may also be formed separately, such as the first tube 111 and the mounting base 12 being detachably connected. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0120] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 6 to 8 , Figure 6 for Figure 5 The front view of the liquid supply device shown. Figure 7 for Figure 6 The liquid supply device shown is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction. Figure 8 for Figure 7 A partial enlarged view at point X in the diagram. In some embodiments, the liquid container 13 has a first receiving cavity 1311 and a first outlet 1312 communicating with the first receiving cavity 1311. The first tube 111 and the first outlet 1312 are in communication. The liquid container 13 also includes a first sealing member 14. The first sealing member 14 is used to close or open the first outlet 1312. Therefore, after the liquid container 13 is removed, the first outlet 1312 can be closed by the first sealing member 14 so that the liquid container 13 can independently carry liquid and be used. When the liquid container 13 is installed on the mounting base 12, the first outlet 1312 can be opened so that the liquid in the liquid container 13 can flow from the first outlet 1312 to the first tube 111.

[0121] In some embodiments, the mounting base 12 is provided with a liquid outlet channel 121. The liquid outlet channel 121 is connected to both the first water outlet 1312 and the first pipe body 111, allowing liquid in the liquid container 13 to flow into the first pipe body 111 through the first water outlet 1312 and the liquid outlet channel 121. The mounting base 12 is also provided with a second sealing component 15, which is disposed in the liquid outlet channel 121 to seal the gap between the liquid outlet channel 121 and the first water outlet 1312. Thus, after the liquid container 13 is installed on the mounting base 12, it can be sealed by the second sealing component 15 to prevent leakage of the liquid supply device 100, thereby improving the user experience.

[0122] In some embodiments, the second sealing member 15 can be engaged at at least two different positions on the mounting base 12. It is understood that, since the liquid container 13 is removable, the second sealing member 15 is prone to displacement or detachment during repeated disassembly and reassembly of the liquid container 13. However, in this embodiment, the second sealing member 15 is engaged at at least two different positions on the mounting base 12, thus more securely attaching it to the mounting base 12 and improving the reliability of the seal between the mounting base 12 and the liquid container 13.

[0123] In some embodiments, the mounting base 12 may include a first annular portion 122 surrounding the first outlet 1312 to form at least a portion of the liquid outlet channel 121, and a second sealing member 15 is mounted on the first annular portion 122.

[0124] For example, please continue to combine Figure 8 and Figure 9 , Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the second sealing component. The second sealing component 15 may include a first annular body 151. The first annular body 151 is fixedly disposed inside the first annular portion 122. The first annular body 151 is compressed between the first annular portion 122 and the liquid container 13 to seal the first annular portion 122 and the first outlet 1312.

[0125] For example, the liquid container 13 may include a third annular portion 1313. The third annular portion 1313 is disposed around the first outlet 1312. In this case, at least one third protruding edge 152 is provided on the inner side of the first annular body 151. The third protruding edge 152 is disposed inclined in a direction away from the opening of the first annular portion 122, and the third protruding edge 152 abuts against the third annular portion 1313 to seal the gap between the first annular portion 122 and the third annular portion 1313.

[0126] Therefore, when the liquid container 13 is installed onto the mounting base 12, the third annular portion 1313 will be inserted into the first annular portion 122. At this time, the first annular body 151 is compressed between the inner wall of the first annular portion 122 and the outer wall of the third annular portion 1313 to achieve a seal. Simultaneously, since the third protruding edge 152 can be simply understood as being inclined inwards, the third annular portion 1313 can be inserted into the first annular portion 122 more easily and effortlessly.

[0127] It is understood that, depending on the actual sealing requirements, the number of the third protruding edge 152 can be one or more, such as two, three or four, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0128] In some embodiments, the second sealing member 15 may further include a first protruding edge 153. The first protruding edge 153 protrudes from the side of the first annular body 151 opposite to the opening of the first annular portion 122. The first protruding edge 153 engages with the inner wall of the first annular portion 122, thereby achieving the engagement and fixation of the second sealing member 15 with the mounting base 12.

[0129] It is also understandable that during the actual disassembly of the liquid container 13, the third annular portion 1313 of the liquid container 13 needs to be pulled out from the first annular body 151. At this time, by engaging the first protruding edge 153 with the inner wall of the first annular portion 122, the probability of the second sealing component 15 being pulled out along with the third annular portion 1313 during the disassembly process can be reduced, thereby making the seal between the mounting base 12 and the liquid container 13 more reliable.

[0130] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the first annular portion 122 is provided with a second annular portion 123 that protrudes around one circumference. The second sealing member 15 also includes a second protruding edge 154. The second protruding edge 154 protrudes from the side of the first annular body 151 near the opening of the first annular portion 122, and the second annular portion 123 is engaged with the second protruding edge 154, thereby achieving the engagement and fixation of the second sealing member 15 with the mounting base 12.

[0131] It is also understood that during the installation and disassembly of the liquid container 13, the third annular portion 1313 of the liquid container 13 needs to be inserted into the first annular body 151. At this time, by engaging the second protruding edge 154 with the outer wall of the first annular portion 122, the second sealing component 15 can be reduced from being excessively pressed into the first annular portion 122 during installation, which could prevent the liquid container 13 from being installed properly or cause incorrect installation, thus affecting the sealing effect. Therefore, the embodiments of this application can improve the user experience.

[0132] For example, the second protruding edge 154 may include a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment connected in sequence. The second segment and the outer wall of the first annular body 151 are spaced apart, and the first segment is connected to both the second segment and the first annular body 151. The third segment is located on the side of the second segment facing the outer wall of the first annular body 151. Furthermore, the outer wall of the first annular body 151, the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment form an L-shaped groove, and the second annular portion 123 is embedded in the L-shaped groove.

[0133] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 8 and Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the abutment. In some embodiments, the mounting base 12 is further provided with an abutment 16, which includes a mounting part 161 and a push rod 162. The mounting part 161 is fixedly disposed on the inner wall of the liquid outlet channel 121. The push rod 162 is connected to the mounting part 161 and is used to abut against the first sealing member 14 to open the first water outlet 1312.

[0134] Therefore, after the liquid container 13 is inserted into the mounting base 12 and installed, the first outlet 1312 of the liquid container 13 can be automatically opened by the push rod 162, so that the liquid in the liquid container 13 can be discharged through the first outlet 1312, the liquid outlet channel 121 and the valve body assembly 11. It can be understood that since the first outlet 1312 does not need to be manually opened after the liquid container 13 is inserted into the mounting base 12, the liquid supply device 100 of this application embodiment has the advantage of being more convenient to use.

[0135] In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the mounting part 161 is provided with a step 1611 to form a first snap-fit ​​groove with the inner wall of the liquid outlet channel 121, and the second sealing member 15 snaps into the first snap-fit ​​groove.

[0136] Specifically, the mounting part 161 may be provided on the inner wall of the first annular part 122, so that the first protruding edge 153 of the second sealing member 15 can be engaged with the inner wall of the first annular part 122 through the mounting part 161, or the second sealing member 15 can be engaged in the first engaging groove located on the inner wall of the first annular part 122.

[0137] In addition, the second sealing component 15 and the mounting part 161 can be mutually limited to make the abutment 16 and the second sealing component 15 more stable and reliable during disassembly and assembly, thereby improving the user experience.

[0138] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 161 includes a second annular body 1612 and a first connecting rib 1613. The second annular body 1612 abuts against the inner wall of the liquid outlet channel 121, such as the inner wall of the first annular portion 122. One end of the first connecting rib 1613 is connected to the second annular body 1612, and the other end of the first connecting rib 1613 is connected to the push rod 162. Thus, a channel for liquid to flow is formed between the two connected connecting ribs.

[0139] The number of push rods 162 can be at least one.

[0140] For example, the number of push rods 162 can be multiple, such as two, three, four, or even five. It is understandable that the volume of the first sealing component 14 is fixed. Therefore, the more push rods 162 that are used to press against the first sealing component 14, the smaller the volume of each push rod 162. At the same time, the whole formed by multiple push rods 162 has more space in the middle for liquid to flow through, thereby improving the liquid supply efficiency.

[0141] Please continue to combine Figure 8 and Figure 11 , Figure 11 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the first sealing component. In some embodiments, the first sealing component 14 may include a second piston 141, a second support rod 142, and a second elastic member 143. The second piston 141 is at least partially disposed within the first receiving cavity 1311. The second support rod 142 passes through the first outlet 1312 and is fixedly connected to the second piston 141. The second elastic member 143 is disposed outside the first receiving cavity 1311, and the elastic member is used to push the second support rod 142 outward from the first receiving cavity 1311, so that the second piston 141 closes the first outlet 1312.

[0142] Therefore, after the liquid container 13 is removed from the mounting base 12, driven by the second elastic element 143, the second support rod 142 and the second piston 141 can automatically close the first outlet 1312 of the liquid container 13 to avoid leakage during the removal of the liquid container 13.

[0143] Furthermore, considering that the mounting base 12 is provided with a pusher 16, when the liquid container 13 is installed on the mounting base 12, the pusher 162 can abut against the second support rod 142, thereby causing the second support rod 142 to move toward the inside of the first accommodating cavity 1311, thereby compressing the second elastic member 143 and causing the second piston 141 to open the first outlet 1312.

[0144] Continuing with the liquid container 13, a third annular portion 1313 is also included. For example, the third annular portion 1313 surrounds the first outlet 1312. The first sealing component 14 may also include a third annular body 144 and a second connecting rib 145. The third annular body 144 is slidably mounted on the inner wall of the third annular portion 1313. One end of the second connecting rib 145 is connected to the third annular body 144, and the other end is connected to the second support rod 142. A second elastic element 143 abuts against the outer wall of the first accommodating cavity 1311 and the second connecting rib 145. This achieves automatic sealing of the first outlet 1312 by the first sealing component 14.

[0145] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second piston 141 may include a first inclined surface 1411. The first inclined surface 1411 is located on the side of the second piston 141 facing the first outlet 1312. Specifically, along the direction from the first outlet 1312 toward the outside of the first receiving cavity 1311, the first inclined surface 1411 is inclined towards the axis of the first outlet 1312. Furthermore, when the second support rod 142 moves toward the outside of the first receiving cavity 1311, the second piston 141 can be wedged and fixed at the first outlet 1312 by the first inclined surface 1411, thereby making the seal of the second piston 141 more stable and reliable.

[0146] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second piston 141 may include a second inclined surface 1412. The second inclined surface 1412 is located on the side of the piston facing away from the first outlet 1312. Specifically, along the direction from the first outlet 1312 toward the interior of the first receiving cavity 1311, the second inclined surface 1412 is inclined towards the axis of the first outlet 1312. Furthermore, the second inclined surface 1412 allows the liquid in the liquid container 13 to apply water pressure to the second piston 141 more effectively, thereby enabling the second piston 141 to more securely seal the first outlet 1312.

[0147] Specifically, the outer surface of the second piston 141 may only have the first inclined surface 1411, or only have the second inclined surface 1412, or may have both the first inclined surface 1411 and the second inclined surface 1412. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0148] The above are examples of some sealing structures between the liquid container 13 and the mounting base 12 in the embodiments of this application. The following will continue to illustrate some connection and fixing structures between the liquid container 13 and the mounting base 12.

[0149] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 12 , Figure 12 for Figure 5An exploded view of the liquid supply device is shown. In some embodiments, the mounting base 12 may include two storage boxes 124 spaced apart along a first direction. The liquid container 13 is snapped between the two storage boxes 124.

[0150] Therefore, it can also be understood that the two storage boxes 124 on the mounting base 12 are reused to clamp the liquid container 13 in this embodiment of the application, thereby making the structure on the mounting base 12 more compact.

[0151] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the storage box 124 may be provided with a first limiting rib 1241, thereby limiting the liquid container 13 by the first limiting rib 1241.

[0152] In some embodiments, the mounting base 12 further includes a support portion 125 connected between the two storage boxes 124, the support portion 125 having a first limiting protrusion 1251.

[0153] Please continue to combine Figure 13 , Figure 13 for Figure 12 An exploded view of the liquid container 13. The liquid container 13 also includes a base 1314 and a second limiting rib 1315, which are located on the same side of the outer wall of the first receiving cavity 1311. The base 1314 is supported by the supporting part 125, so it can also be understood that the base 1314 and the second limiting rib 1315 are both located at the bottom of the liquid container 13. The base 1314 and the second limiting rib 1315 respectively abut against different sides of the first limiting protrusion 1251 along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0154] Taking the first direction as left-right as an example, the second direction can be front-back. Through the cooperation of the second limiting rib 1315 and the storage box 124, the liquid container 13 can be limited in the front, back, left, and right directions. Of course, the first direction can also be front-back and the second direction can be left-right; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0155] In some embodiments, the third annular portion 1313 and the base 1314 protrude from the same side of the outer wall of the first receiving cavity 1311. Alternatively, the third annular portion 1313 is also located at the bottom of the liquid container 13. Furthermore, the height by which the third annular portion 1313 protrudes relative to the outer wall of the first receiving cavity 1311 is less than the height by which the base 1314 protrudes relative to the outer wall of the first receiving cavity 1311. Therefore, after the liquid container 13 is removed, it can be stably placed on a supporting surface such as a table using the base 1314, allowing the liquid container 13 to be used independently.

[0156] In some embodiments, the liquid container 13 further includes a third slot 1316. The third slot 1316 is located at the end of the outer wall of the first receiving cavity 1311 away from the support portion 125. The mounting base 12 also includes a connecting portion 126 connecting the two storage boxes 124, the connecting portion 126 being perpendicularly connected to the support portion 125. A latch 1261 is provided on the side of the connecting portion 126 facing away from the support portion 125, and the latch 1261 engages with the third slot 1316. Therefore, after the liquid container 13 is installed on the mounting base 12, the engagement of the latch 1261 and the third slot 1316 prevents the liquid container 13 from tipping backward, ensuring the reliability of the liquid container 13 installation.

[0157] In some embodiments, the liquid container 13 may include a body 131 and a lid 132. The body 131 is provided with the first receiving cavity 1311 and the first outlet 1312 described above. The lid 132 is placed on the body 131 to close the first receiving cavity 1311.

[0158] The third annular portion 1313, the base 1314, the second limiting rib 1315, and the third slot 1316 mentioned above can all be located at the bottom of the box body 131.

[0159] In some embodiments, the side of the box 131 away from the base 1314 is also provided with a second water outlet 1317 so that water can be poured out through the second water outlet 1317 when the liquid container 13 is used alone.

[0160] In some embodiments, the box 131 is also provided with a first handle 1318 for easy gripping of the box 131.

[0161] In some embodiments, the lid 132 may be provided with a second handle 1321 to facilitate gripping the lid 132.

[0162] Alternatively, the liquid supply device 100 also includes a liquid container 13, with a first tube 111 disposed at the outlet of the liquid container 13. That is, the valve assembly 11 can be directly disposed on the liquid container 13, instead of on the aforementioned mounting base 12.

[0163] Specifically, the first tube 111 can be integrally formed with the liquid container 13, or the first tube 111 and the liquid container 13 can be formed separately. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0164] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this application. This application also provides a refrigerator that may include any of the liquid supply devices 100 described above.

[0165] In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include a cabinet 200 and a door 300. The cabinet 200 has a plurality of cooling compartments, and the door 300 is used to open or close the cooling compartments.

[0166] At this time, taking the liquid supply device 100, including a water dispenser, as an example, the liquid supply device 100 can be installed on the door 300. The liquid container 13 of the liquid supply device 100 is located in a refrigeration room, such as a refrigerator or a wide-range variable temperature room, so that the liquid in the liquid container 13 can be refrigerated by the refrigeration room, so that users can directly take out cold water or cold drinks.

[0167] For example, please continue to refer to Figure 15 and 16 , Figure 15 for Figure 14 The diagram shows the structure of the refrigerator door. Figure 16 for Figure 15 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view along the BB direction at the tank door. A water intake trough 31 may be provided on the outer side of the tank door 300. A mounting base 12 is provided on the inner side of the tank door 300. The mounting base 12 and the valve body assembly 11 pass through the tank door 300, so that the outlet of the second pipe 112 is located within the water intake trough 31. This allows the user to directly draw water without opening the door.

[0168] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 17 , Figure 17 for Figure 14 The diagram shows the engagement of the pressure rod and valve body assembly in the refrigerator. The liquid supply device 100 may also include a pressure rod 17. The pressure rod 17 is at least partially located within the water inlet 31. The pressure rod 17 is rotatably connected to the door 300 to push the second tube 112 toward the first tube 111.

[0169] For example, a pushing part 1123 is provided on the outer wall of the end of the second tube 112 away from the first tube 111. The middle part of the pressure rod 17 abuts against the side of the pushing part 1123 away from the first tube 111, so that the pressure rod 17 can push the second tube 112 by pushing the pushing part 1123.

[0170] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0171] The valve body, liquid supply device 100, and refrigerator provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A valve body assembly, characterized in that, include: first tube body; The second tube is spaced apart from the first tube. The third tube is made of a deformable material. One end of the third tube is connected to the first tube, and the other end of the third tube is connected to the second tube, so that the first tube and the second tube are not nested. and The valve core is at least partially located within the second tube body; The second tube can move toward or away from the first tube to deform the third tube and to open or close the first tube.

2. The valve body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first tube and the second tube is detachably connected to the third tube.

3. The valve body assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first tube body has a first slot at one end near the third tube body, and one end of the third tube body is engaged in the first slot.

4. The valve body assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first slot is an annular slot, and the first slot is arranged around the outer wall of the first tube body; The third tube is made of an elastic material, and the edge of the third tube near the first tube is fully engaged with the first slot to form a seal.

5. The valve body assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second tube body has a second slot at one end near the third tube body, and one end of the third tube body is engaged in the second slot.

6. The valve body assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second slot is an annular groove, and the second slot is arranged around the outer wall of the second tube body; The third tube is made of an elastic material, and the end edge of the third tube near the second tube is fully engaged with the second slot to form a seal.

7. The valve body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the axial region of the third tube body protrudes outward in a direction away from the axis of the third tube body; and / or At least a portion of the axial region of the third tube is concave inward toward the axis of the third tube.

8. The valve body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core includes: The first support rod is at least partially disposed within the second tube; and The first piston is mounted and fixed to the first support rod; The second tube can move toward the first tube to drive the first support rod to move, thereby causing the first piston to open the first tube.

9. The valve body assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the inner walls of the first tube and the second tube slides in contact with the first support rod.

10. The valve body assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first tube is provided with a first sliding groove; The inner wall of the second tube is provided with a second sliding groove; The outer periphery of the first support rod is provided with a sliding part, which is partially slidably installed in the first slide groove and partially slidably installed in the second slide groove.

11. The valve body assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first tube is provided with a circumferential annular rib; The first piston is at least partially located on the side of the annular rib away from the sliding portion; The valve core further includes a first elastic element, which abuts against the sliding portion and the annular rib to push the first piston against the annular rib, thereby closing the first tube.

12. A liquid supply device, characterized in that, Includes the valve body assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The liquid supply device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The liquid supply device further includes: Mounting base; and A liquid container, detachably connected to the mounting base; The first tube is disposed on the mounting base and communicates with the liquid container.

14. The liquid supply device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The liquid supply device further includes a liquid container, and the first tube is disposed at the outlet of the liquid container.

15. The liquid supply device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that, The liquid supply device includes a water dispenser or an atomizer.

16. The liquid supply device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that, The liquid supply device includes a humidifier.

17. A refrigerator, characterized in that, Includes the liquid supply device as described in any one of claims 12 to 16.

Images