A flake ice machine water distribution structure, water replenishment control method and flake ice machine

Abstract

A flake ice machine water distribution structure, water replenishment control method and flake ice machine. The present application relates to the technical field of flake ice machine, and proposes a flake ice machine water distribution structure, comprising: a water distribution disc with a side edge water outlet hole, a water inlet is arranged on the water distribution disc, a lower water convex disc is coupled and connected to the bottom of the water distribution disc, and a water distribution blade is arranged on the surface of the lower water convex disc. In the ice making process, the ice making water enters the water distribution disc through the water inlet, the ice making water is guided to flow to the water distribution blade by the water outlet hole of the side edge of the water distribution disc, and then the ice making water forms uniform water flow through the water distribution blade. The present application solves the problem that the water distribution is uneven in the barrel wall due to the limitation of the water distribution disc structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of flake ice machine technology, and particularly to a water distribution structure, water replenishment control method, and flake ice machine for a flake ice machine. Background Technology

[0002] A flake ice machine is a refrigeration device that freezes water into flake-shaped ice blocks using a refrigeration system. Its working principle mainly includes four steps: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. In the ice-making process, water needs to be distributed onto an ice mold plate, and then the refrigeration system freezes the water into ice flakes. Ice machines are widely used in various industries, especially in food processing, pharmaceutical preservation, and chemical experiments. Flake ice blocks are particularly favored due to their large contact area and fast heat exchange rate. However, traditional flake ice machines face some technical challenges in the ice-making process, especially in the water distribution system.

[0003] Currently, most flake ice machines consist of a water distribution structure comprised of a distribution tray and pipes. The distribution tray, located at the top of the ice maker or another suitable location, receives the water supply and initially disperses it. Then, the water is transported to the individual ice molds located above the refrigeration system via a series of pipes. In practical applications, due to the static design of the distribution tray and pipes, the water flow velocity and distribution may vary due to various factors (such as pipe length, bending angle, and height differences). This results in some ice molds receiving more or less water than ideal, limiting the uniformity of water output from the distribution tray and leading to uneven water distribution during the ice-making process. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a water distribution structure, a water replenishment control method, and a flake ice machine, which solves the problem of uneven water distribution within the barrel wall due to the limitation of the water distribution plate structure.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a water distribution structure for a flake ice machine, comprising: a water distribution plate with side edge water outlet holes, characterized in that a water inlet is provided on the water distribution plate, a water discharge convex plate is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate, and water distribution blades are provided on the surface of the water discharge convex plate. During the ice-making process, ice-making water enters the water distribution plate through the water inlet, and the water outlet holes on the side edge of the water distribution plate guide the ice-making water to the water distribution blades, thereby forming a uniform water flow through the water distribution blades.

[0006] Preferably, the water distribution plate includes a water pan and a water outlet, wherein the water pan has a certain depth, and when the ice-making water enters the water distribution plate from the inlet, the water pan can maintain a certain water level, thereby controlling the consistency of the water outlet speed; the water outlet guides the ice-making water to flow into the next-level drain cam.

[0007] Preferably, the water-distributing blade has a sloping structure, with the highest point of the water-distributing blade connected to the bottom of the water-distributing plate. The water-distributing blade extends from high to low to the edge of the water-draining convex plate, so that when the ice-making water flows down from the water-distributing plate, the ice-making water forms a uniform water flow along the water-distributing blade.

[0008] Preferably, the number of water outlet holes is proportional to the number of water-dividing blades, wherein the number of water-dividing blades can only be less than or equal to the number of water outlet holes.

[0009] Preferably, a water distribution hole is provided at the bottom of the water distribution plate, and a water supply pipe is coupled inside the water distribution hole. A water supply device is connected below the water supply pipe so that after the ice-making water flows to the water distribution plate, it flows through the water distribution hole into the water supply pipe until the ice-making water flows into the water supply device.

[0010] Preferably, the water replenishment device is equipped with a water spraying device and water volume sensors are installed at the upper and lower ends of the water replenishment device. The water volume sensors detect the water flow in the ice maker, and the water spraying device adds a corresponding water volume value to the ice maker based on the detected water flow to ensure the minimum standard water flow.

[0011] The present invention also provides a water replenishment control method for the water distribution structure of a flake ice machine, which detects the water flow in the ice-making tank by means of a water volume sensor;

[0012] When the water flow reaches the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device does not need to activate the water replenishment mode;

[0013] When the water flow rate is lower than the preset standard ice-making water flow rate, the water spraying device activates the water replenishment mode and sprays water onto the ice-making barrel wall until the water flow rate after spraying reaches the standard ice-making water flow rate.

[0014] Preferably, when the water flow rate is a preset second level, the water replenishment device sprays water onto the ice bucket wall through the first water replenishment level to obtain a first water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the first water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate;

[0015] When the water flow rate is at the preset first level, the water replenishment device sprays water onto the ice bucket wall through the second water replenishment level to obtain a second water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the second water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate.

[0016] The present invention also provides a flake ice machine, characterized in that the flake ice machine water distribution structure is detachably provided inside the flake ice machine.

[0017] Preferably, the water flow direction is controlled by a water distribution plate, and the water flows to the ice-making barrel wall of the flake ice machine according to the water flow direction, thereby improving the utilization rate of ice-making water.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the advantage of this invention lies in the design of a single-stage water distribution plate structure, which consists of two parts: an upper water distribution plate connected to the water inlet and a water outlet. The number of water outlets and water distribution blades must be evenly distributed to ensure that the water flows into the arc-shaped water discharge convex plate. The single-stage water distribution plate and the arc-shaped water discharge convex plate are connected. The single-stage water distribution plate is directly connected to the water distribution blades and the arc-shaped water discharge convex plate. Multiple water distribution blades are set on the surface of the arc-shaped water discharge convex plate. The water distribution blades have a sloping structure, with the highest point of the water distribution blades connecting to the single-stage water distribution plate. The blades extend from high to low to the edge of the arc-shaped water discharge convex plate. When water flows down from the single-stage water distribution plate, it is guided along the direction of the water distribution blades to the ice bucket wall. The distribution of the number of water outlets and water distribution blades must be evenly distributed to achieve uniform water discharge. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water separation structure of the flake ice machine in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the water distribution plate in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the drain cam in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water distribution hole in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the water distribution plate and the water replenishment device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the water distribution structure and the water replenishment device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water replenishment device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the position of the overall water distribution plate structure on the flake ice machine in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the water replenishment principle of the water replenishment device in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 1. Water distribution tray; 2. Water outlet; 3. Water tray; 4. Drainage cam; 5. Water distribution blade; 7. Water distribution hole; 8. Water supply pipe; 9. Water supply device; 10. Water spray device; 11. Water volume sensor; 12. Ice maker bucket wall. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention 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 the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention. It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0032] Example 1:

[0033] Please see Figure 1 A water distribution structure for a flake ice machine includes a water distribution plate 1 with side edge water outlet holes 2. The water distribution plate 1 has a water inlet, and a water outlet convex plate 4 is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate 1. Water distribution blades 5 are provided on the surface of the water outlet convex plate 4. During the ice-making process, ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 through the water inlet. The water outlet holes 2 on the side edge of the water distribution plate 1 guide the ice-making water to the water distribution blades 5, thereby forming a uniform water flow through the water distribution blades 5.

[0034] It should be noted that the ice-making water first enters the water distribution pan 1 through the inlet. The design of the inlet needs to take into account the speed and pressure of the water flow to ensure that the water can enter the water distribution pan 1 smoothly and continuously.

[0035] Please see Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution plate 1. The water distribution plate 1 includes a water tray 3 and a water outlet 2. The water tray 3 has a certain depth, and when the ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 from the inlet, the water tray 3 can maintain a certain water level to control the consistency of the water flow rate. The water outlet 2 guides the ice-making water to flow into the next-level drain convex plate 4. The water distribution plate 1 is connected to the inlet, and the water distribution plate 1 is equipped with water outlet 2. The number of water outlet 2 is not limited and can be determined according to the machine size and water flow requirements. The shape of the water outlet 2 can be changed according to the actual machine conditions.

[0036] It is worth noting that the water distribution plate 1 is a container that receives the incoming water and guides it to the outlet hole 2. The outlet holes 2 on the side edge of the water distribution plate 1 are used to distribute the water to different locations. The outlet holes 2 are usually evenly arranged to ensure that the water flow can be evenly distributed.

[0037] It should be noted that the water distribution plate 1 and the arc-shaped drain cam 4 are in a related connection state, and the water distribution plate 1 is directly connected to the water distribution blade 5 and the arc-shaped drain cam 4.

[0038] Furthermore, the drain cam 4, which is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate 1, serves as a support and may also help guide the water flow. The surface design of the drain cam 4 is related to the setting of the water distribution blades 5.

[0039] Please see Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the drain cam. The drain cam 4 is arc-shaped and located below the water distribution plate 1. It is connected to the water distribution plate 1 and surrounds the bottom. The surface of the arc-shaped drain cam 4 has multiple water distribution blades 5.

[0040] It is worth noting that the water-dividing blade 5 has a sloping structure, with the highest point of the water-dividing blade 5 connected to the bottom of the water-dividing plate 1. The water-dividing blade 5 extends from high to low to the edge of the water-draining convex plate 4, so that when the ice-making water flows down from the water-dividing plate 1, the ice-making water forms a uniform water flow along the water-dividing blade 5.

[0041] It should be noted that during the ice-making process, due to the overall structure of the convex surface of the water drain plate 4, the water flows from top to bottom. During the downward flow, the water distribution blades 5 can form a uniform water flow towards the ice-making bucket wall 12, providing a good ice-making effect.

[0042] In addition, the water-dividing blades 5 on the surface of the water-draining cam 4 are one of the core components. The angle and shape of the water-dividing blades 5 are designed to control the direction and speed of the water flow. When the water flows through the water-dividing blades 5, the water-dividing blades 5 will cause the water flow to spread out and form a uniform water curtain. This can ensure that the water flow is evenly covered on the ice-making tray or ice-making surface, which is conducive to forming an ice layer of uniform thickness.

[0043] It is worth noting that the highest point of the water distribution blade 5 is connected to the edge of the first-stage water distribution plate 1, not completely connected to the bottom, so it cannot block the connection between the bottom water distribution hole 7 and the water supply pipe 8.

[0044] Furthermore, the number of water outlet holes 2 and the number of water dividing blades 5 should be evenly distributed so that the water flows into the arc-shaped drain convex plate 4. The ratio of the number of water outlet holes 2 to the number of water dividing blades 5 can be one to one or two to one, and so on. The number of water dividing blades 5 can only be less than or equal to the number of water outlet holes 2.

[0045] Please see Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution hole. A water distribution hole 7 is provided below the water distribution plate 1. The bottom water distribution hole 7 is connected to the water supply pipe 8. After the ice-making water flows to the water distribution plate 1, it flows into the water supply pipe 8 through the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 until the ice-making water is left in the water supply device 9.

[0046] It should be noted that when the ice-making water flowing down from the water distribution plate 1 reaches the bottom of the ice bucket, the water flow may decrease. The ice-making water can flow from the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 through the water supply pipe 8 to the water supply device 9 and the reverse water supply.

[0047] It is worth noting that the addition of a bottom water distribution hole 7 and a water supply pipe 8 to the water distribution structure of the flake ice machine allows for better control of the water flow and ensures the recycling of water in the ice-making system. Specifically, the ice-making water first flows into the water distribution plate 1, which is responsible for evenly guiding the water to the outlet hole 2 and the bottom water distribution hole 7. The bottom water distribution hole 7 of the water distribution plate 1 plays an additional regulating role. When the ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 through the inlet, some water flows through the outlet hole 2 on the side edge to the water distribution blades 5, forming a uniform water flow for ice making. The excess water flows out through the bottom water distribution hole 7. The water flowing out of the water distribution hole 7 enters the water supply pipe 8. The water supply pipe 8 is a pipe connecting the water distribution hole 7 and the water supply device 9, responsible for transporting excess water not used for ice making to the water supply device 9.

[0048] Please see Figure 5 The diagram shows the connection between the water distribution plate and the water replenishment device. The water distribution plate 1 has a water distribution hole 7 at the bottom. The water replenishment pipe 8 is connected to the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1. The water replenishment device 9 is connected to the water replenishment pipe 8, so that the chilled water flows through the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom into the water replenishment pipe 8 until the ice-making water flows into the water replenishment device 9.

[0049] It is worth noting that when the ice-making water flows from the upper water distribution plate 1 to the middle or lower part of the barrel wall, the flow of water at the top may decrease. Therefore, it is necessary to add a water spray device 10 to keep the flow of water at the lower barrel wall uniform.

[0050] Please see Figure 6 The diagram shows the connection between the water distribution structure and the water replenishment device. The water distribution plate 1 is connected to the drain cam 4, and then the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 is connected to the water replenishment device 9. This allows the chilled water to flow from the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the first-stage water distribution plate 1 to the water replenishment device 9 through the water replenishment pipe 8. The water spraying device 10 sprays a certain amount of water onto the barrel wall to replenish the chilled water below the ice bucket, thereby improving the ice-making effect and increasing the utilization rate of the chilled water.

[0051] It should be noted that when the chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice bucket wall 12, the water volume sensors 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 begin to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice bucket.

[0052] Please see Figure 7 The diagram shows the structure of the water replenishment device 9. The water replenishment device 9 is equipped with a water spraying device 10 and water volume sensors 11 at the upper and lower ends of the water replenishment device 9. The water volume sensors 11 detect the water flow in the ice bucket, and the water spraying device 10 adds a corresponding water volume value to the ice bucket according to the detected water flow to ensure the minimum standard water flow.

[0053] It should be noted that the water spraying device 10 is located inside the water replenishment device 9, and its main function is to re-spray the water stored in the water replenishment device 9 back to the ice-making bucket or ice-making area. This ensures that the ice-making area always has sufficient water to maintain the continuity and efficiency of the ice-making process. The water level sensor 11 is installed at both ends of the water replenishment device 9 to monitor the water level or flow rate in the water replenishment device 9 in real time. The water level sensor 11 can accurately detect the current water level and feed the data back to the ice maker's control system. When the water level sensor 11 detects that the water level in the ice-making bucket is lower than the minimum standard flow rate, the water level sensor 11 will send this information to the control system. The control system will then instruct the water spraying device 10 to increase the water level as needed to ensure that the water level in the ice-making bucket reaches or remains at the optimal level. The minimum standard flow rate in the ice-making bucket refers to the minimum amount of water required during the ice-making process to ensure the ice-making effect and efficiency. Through the combined use of the water level sensor 11 and the water spraying device 10, the water level can be dynamically adjusted to ensure that the ice-making bucket is always in the best working condition.

[0054] Please see Figure 8 The diagram shows the position of the overall water distribution plate structure on the flake ice machine. The direction of water flow can be controlled by the water distribution plate 1. The water will flow downwards. During the downward flow, the water distribution blades 5 can form a uniform water flow towards the ice bucket wall 12, providing a good ice-making effect.

[0055] It should be noted that the water distribution plate 1 controls the direction of water flow through its designed water outlets 2. These outlets 2 are carefully positioned along the side edge of the water distribution plate 1, allowing water to flow evenly in a specific direction. After flowing out of the outlets 2, the water flows downwards. During this process, the speed and direction of the water flow may be affected by gravity and other physical factors. As the water flows downwards, the water distribution blades 5 come into play. These blades are typically arranged at a certain angle to spread the water flow without changing its direction, forming a more uniform water curtain. The design needs to consider the dynamic characteristics of the water flow to ensure that the water flow can be effectively dispersed and reduce the possibility of water flow impacting the ice bucket wall 12. After being adjusted by the water distribution blades 5, the water flow flows to the ice bucket wall 12 in a uniform state. The ice bucket wall 12 is usually at a low temperature. When the water flow comes into contact with the cooled bucket wall, it will start to freeze. Since the water flow is adjusted into a uniform water curtain by the water distribution blades 5, the water flow in each part can be cooled and frozen relatively evenly, which can effectively avoid the problem of uneven ice thickness or uneven ice block size, thus providing a good ice-making effect.

[0056] Working principle and usage process:

[0057] First, the ice-making water flows from the inlet into the water distribution plate 1. There is a water outlet 2 at the edge of the water distribution plate 1. After the water flows out of the water outlet 2, it flows into the arc-shaped water drain convex plate 4. The arc-shaped water drain convex plate 4 distributes the water evenly on the ice-making bucket wall 12. A water supply pipe 8 and a water spraying device 10 are installed below the water distribution plate 1, so that the water can also be evenly distributed below the bucket wall, effectively improving the ice-making rate.

[0058] Next, the water replenishment device 9 replenishes the water inside the ice bucket wall 12. That is, when the chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice bucket wall 12, the water volume sensor 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 starts to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice bucket. The water volume sensor 11 detects the water flow in the ice bucket. When the water flow reaches the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device 10 does not need to start the water replenishment mode. When the water flow is lower than the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device 10 starts the water replenishment mode and sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 until the water flow after spraying reaches the standard ice-making water flow. When the water flow rate is at the preset second level, the water replenishment device 9 sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 through the first water replenishment level to obtain a first water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the first water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate; when the water flow rate is at the preset first level, the water replenishment device 9 sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 through the second water replenishment level to obtain a second water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the second water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate.

[0059] Furthermore, in the water replenishment detection logic of the water replenishment device 9, L3 is set as the standard ice-making water flow rate, L2 and L1 are two levels of relatively low water and severe water shortage, and the water replenishment device 9 is divided into two levels of V1 and V2. V1 is the smaller water replenishment amount, and V2 is the larger water replenishment amount. That is, the preset standard ice-making water flow rate is L3, the preset second level is L2, the preset first level is L1, the first water replenishment level is V1, and the second water replenishment level is V2.

[0060] Please see Figure 9 The water replenishment principle flowchart of the water replenishment device is as follows: When chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice maker bucket wall 12, the water volume sensors 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 begin to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice maker bucket. In the detection logic, L3 is set as the standard ice-making water flow, and L2 and L1 are two levels: relatively low water and severely low water. When the water volume sensor 11 detects that the water flow in the ice maker bucket is lower than L3, the water spray device 10 will activate the water replenishment mode and spray water onto the ice maker bucket wall 12 to maintain the set water flow. When the water volume sensor 11 detects that the water flow in the ice maker bucket reaches L3... At this time, the water spray device 10 does not need to activate the water replenishment mode; while the water replenishment device 9 has two settings, V1 and V2, where V1 is a smaller water replenishment volume and V2 is a larger water replenishment volume; when the water flow sensor 11 detects a water flow of L2, and L2 is less than L3, the water replenishment device 9 will spray water at setting V1 to replenish water, so that the water replenishment volume is V1, in order to achieve a water replenishment effect of L2+V1>L3; when the water flow sensor 11 detects a water flow of L1, and L1 is less than L3, the water replenishment device 9 will spray water at setting V2 to replenish water, so that the water replenishment volume is V2, in order to maintain the water flow in the ice bucket wall 12.

[0061] Furthermore, in the water distribution structure of the flake ice machine, the water distribution plate 1 maintains a certain water volume, which can control the water output. The arc-shaped water discharge convex plate 4 provides uniformity for the water flow direction, and the water distribution blades 5 provide the directionality of the water flow during operation, which greatly optimizes the flow of chilled water from the water distribution plate 1 to the wall 12 of the refrigeration tank, changing the original scattered water flow and improving uniformity. The water supply pipe 8 and the water spray device 10 solve the problem of uneven overall water flow to a certain extent. The addition of the water volume sensor 11 also achieves the effect of precise water supply, improving the utilization rate of chilled water. At the same time, chilled water can also flow into the ice-making tank from different places, greatly improving the utilization rate of chilled water. The effect achieved is to improve the ice-making efficiency, reduce the ice-making water circulation volume, and improve the ice-forming rate and working efficiency.

[0062] Example 2:

[0063] Furthermore, the present invention provides a flake ice machine, characterized in that the flake ice machine has a detachable water distribution structure inside.

[0064] The flake ice machine has an internal water distribution structure, which can be referred to here. Figure 1A water distribution structure for a flake ice machine includes a water distribution plate 1 with side edge water outlet holes 2. The water distribution plate 1 has a water inlet, and a water outlet convex plate 4 is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate 1. Water distribution blades 5 are provided on the surface of the water outlet convex plate 4. During the ice-making process, ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 through the water inlet. The water outlet holes 2 on the side edge of the water distribution plate 1 guide the ice-making water to the water distribution blades 5, thereby forming a uniform water flow through the water distribution blades 5.

[0065] It should be noted that the ice-making water first enters the water distribution pan 1 through the inlet. The design of the inlet needs to take into account the speed and pressure of the water flow to ensure that the water can enter the water distribution pan 1 smoothly and continuously.

[0066] Please see Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution plate 1. The water distribution plate 1 includes a water tray 3 and a water outlet 2. The water tray 3 has a certain depth, and when the ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 from the inlet, the water tray 3 can maintain a certain water level to control the consistency of the water flow rate. The water outlet 2 guides the ice-making water to flow into the next-level drain convex plate 4. The water distribution plate 1 is connected to the inlet, and the water distribution plate 1 is equipped with water outlet 2. The number of water outlet 2 is not limited and can be determined according to the machine size and water flow requirements. The shape of the water outlet 2 can be changed according to the actual machine conditions.

[0067] It is worth noting that the water distribution plate 1 is a container that receives the incoming water and guides it to the outlet hole 2. The outlet holes 2 on the side edge of the water distribution plate 1 are used to distribute the water to different locations. The outlet holes 2 are usually evenly arranged to ensure that the water flow can be evenly distributed.

[0068] It should be noted that the water distribution plate 1 and the arc-shaped drain cam 4 are in a related connection state, and the water distribution plate 1 is directly connected to the water distribution blade 5 and the arc-shaped drain cam 4.

[0069] Furthermore, the drain cam 4, which is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate 1, serves as a support and may also help guide the water flow. The surface design of the drain cam 4 is related to the setting of the water distribution blades 5.

[0070] Please see Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the drain cam. The drain cam 4 is arc-shaped and located below the water distribution plate 1. It is connected to the water distribution plate 1 and surrounds the bottom. The surface of the arc-shaped drain cam 4 has multiple water distribution blades 5.

[0071] It is worth noting that the water-dividing blade 5 has a sloping structure, with the highest point of the water-dividing blade 5 connected to the bottom of the water-dividing plate 1. The water-dividing blade 5 extends from high to low to the edge of the water-draining convex plate 4, so that when the ice-making water flows down from the water-dividing plate 1, the ice-making water forms a uniform water flow along the water-dividing blade 5.

[0072] It should be noted that during the ice-making process, due to the overall structure of the convex surface of the water drain plate 4, the water flows from top to bottom. During the downward flow, the water distribution blades 5 can form a uniform water flow towards the ice-making bucket wall 12, providing a good ice-making effect.

[0073] In addition, the water-dividing blades 5 on the surface of the water-draining cam 4 are one of the core components. The angle and shape of the water-dividing blades 5 are designed to control the direction and speed of the water flow. When the water flows through the water-dividing blades 5, the water-dividing blades 5 will cause the water flow to spread out and form a uniform water curtain. This can ensure that the water flow is evenly covered on the ice-making tray or ice-making surface, which is conducive to forming an ice layer of uniform thickness.

[0074] It is worth noting that the highest point of the water distribution blade 5 is connected to the edge of the first-stage water distribution plate 1, not completely connected to the bottom, so it cannot block the connection between the bottom water distribution hole 7 and the water supply pipe 8.

[0075] Furthermore, the number of water outlet holes 2 and the number of water dividing blades 5 should be evenly distributed so that the water flows into the arc-shaped drain convex plate 4. The ratio of the number of water outlet holes 2 to the number of water dividing blades 5 can be one to one or two to one, and so on. The number of water dividing blades 5 can only be less than or equal to the number of water outlet holes 2.

[0076] Please see Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution hole. A water distribution hole 7 is provided below the water distribution plate 1. The bottom water distribution hole 7 is connected to the water supply pipe 8. After the ice-making water flows to the water distribution plate 1, it flows into the water supply pipe 8 through the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 until the ice-making water is left in the water supply device 9.

[0077] It should be noted that when the ice-making water flowing down from the water distribution plate 1 reaches the bottom of the ice bucket, the water flow may decrease. The ice-making water can flow from the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 through the water supply pipe 8 to the water supply device 9 and the reverse water supply.

[0078] It is worth noting that the addition of a bottom water distribution hole 7 and a water supply pipe 8 to the water distribution structure of the flake ice machine allows for better control of the water flow and ensures the recycling of water in the ice-making system. Specifically, the ice-making water first flows into the water distribution plate 1, which is responsible for evenly guiding the water to the outlet hole 2 and the bottom water distribution hole 7. The bottom water distribution hole 7 of the water distribution plate 1 plays an additional regulating role. When the ice-making water enters the water distribution plate 1 through the inlet, some water flows through the outlet hole 2 on the side edge to the water distribution blades 5, forming a uniform water flow for ice making. The excess water flows out through the bottom water distribution hole 7. The water flowing out of the water distribution hole 7 enters the water supply pipe 8. The water supply pipe 8 is a pipe connecting the water distribution hole 7 and the water supply device 9, responsible for transporting excess water not used for ice making to the water supply device 9.

[0079] Please see Figure 5 The diagram shows the connection between the water distribution plate and the water replenishment device. The water distribution plate 1 has a water distribution hole 7 at the bottom. The water replenishment pipe 8 is connected to the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1. The water replenishment device 9 is connected to the water replenishment pipe 8, so that the chilled water flows through the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom into the water replenishment pipe 8 until the ice-making water flows into the water replenishment device 9.

[0080] It is worth noting that when the ice-making water flows from the upper water distribution plate 1 to the middle or lower part of the barrel wall, the flow of water at the top may decrease. Therefore, it is necessary to add a water spray device 10 to keep the flow of water at the lower barrel wall uniform.

[0081] Please see Figure 6 The diagram shows the connection between the water distribution structure and the water replenishment device. The water distribution plate 1 is connected to the drain cam 4, and then the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the water distribution plate 1 is connected to the water replenishment device 9. This allows the chilled water to flow from the water distribution hole 7 at the bottom of the first-stage water distribution plate 1 to the water replenishment device 9 through the water replenishment pipe 8. The water spraying device 10 sprays a certain amount of water onto the barrel wall to replenish the chilled water below the ice bucket, thereby improving the ice-making effect and increasing the utilization rate of the chilled water.

[0082] It should be noted that when the chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice bucket wall 12, the water volume sensors 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 begin to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice bucket.

[0083] Please see Figure 7 The diagram shows the structure of the water replenishment device 9. The water replenishment device 9 is equipped with a water spraying device 10 and water volume sensors 11 are installed at the upper and lower ends of the water replenishment device 9. The water volume sensors 11 detect the water flow in the ice bucket, and the water spraying device 10 adds a corresponding water volume value to the ice bucket according to the detected water flow to ensure the minimum standard water flow.

[0084] It should be noted that the water spraying device 10 is located inside the water replenishment device 9, and its main function is to re-spray the water stored in the water replenishment device 9 back to the ice-making bucket or ice-making area. This ensures that the ice-making area always has sufficient water to maintain the continuity and efficiency of the ice-making process. The water level sensor 11 is installed at both ends of the water replenishment device 9 to monitor the water level or flow rate in the water replenishment device 9 in real time. The water level sensor 11 can accurately detect the current water level and feed the data back to the ice maker's control system. When the water level sensor 11 detects that the water level in the ice-making bucket is lower than the minimum standard flow rate, the water level sensor 11 will send this information to the control system. The control system will then instruct the water spraying device 10 to increase the water level as needed to ensure that the water level in the ice-making bucket reaches or remains at the optimal level. The minimum standard flow rate in the ice-making bucket refers to the minimum amount of water required during the ice-making process to ensure the ice-making effect and efficiency. Through the combined use of the water level sensor 11 and the water spraying device 10, the water level can be dynamically adjusted to ensure that the ice-making bucket is always in the best working condition.

[0085] Please see Figure 8 The diagram shows the position of the overall water distribution plate structure on the flake ice machine. The direction of water flow can be controlled by the water distribution plate 1. The water will flow downwards. During the downward flow, the water distribution blades 5 can form a uniform water flow towards the ice bucket wall 12, providing a good ice-making effect.

[0086] It should be noted that the water distribution plate 1 controls the direction of water flow through its designed water outlets 2. These outlets 2 are carefully positioned along the side edge of the water distribution plate 1, allowing water to flow evenly in a specific direction. After flowing out of the outlets 2, the water flows downwards. During this process, the speed and direction of the water flow may be affected by gravity and other physical factors. As the water flows downwards, the water distribution blades 5 come into play. These blades are typically arranged at a certain angle to spread the water flow without changing its direction, forming a more uniform water curtain. The design needs to consider the dynamic characteristics of the water flow to ensure that the water flow can be effectively dispersed and reduce the possibility of water flow impacting the ice bucket wall 12. After being adjusted by the water distribution blades 5, the water flow flows to the ice bucket wall 12 in a uniform state. The ice bucket wall 12 is usually at a low temperature. When the water flow comes into contact with the cooled bucket wall, it will start to freeze. Since the water flow is adjusted into a uniform water curtain by the water distribution blades 5, the water flow in each part can be cooled and frozen relatively evenly, which can effectively avoid the problem of uneven ice thickness or uneven ice block size, thus providing a good ice-making effect.

[0087] Working principle and usage process:

[0088] First, the ice-making water flows from the inlet into the water distribution plate 1. There is a water outlet 2 at the edge of the water distribution plate 1. After the water flows out of the water outlet 2, it flows into the arc-shaped water drain convex plate 4. The arc-shaped water drain convex plate 4 distributes the water evenly on the ice-making bucket wall 12. A water supply pipe 8 and a water spraying device 10 are installed below the water distribution plate 1, so that the water can also be evenly distributed below the bucket wall, effectively improving the ice-making rate.

[0089] Next, the water replenishment device 9 replenishes the water inside the ice bucket wall 12. That is, when the chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice bucket wall 12, the water volume sensor 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 starts to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice bucket. The water volume sensor 11 detects the water flow in the ice bucket. When the water flow reaches the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device 10 does not need to start the water replenishment mode. When the water flow is lower than the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device 10 starts the water replenishment mode and sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 until the water flow after spraying reaches the standard ice-making water flow. When the water flow rate is at the preset second level, the water replenishment device 9 sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 through the first water replenishment level to obtain a first water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the first water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate; when the water flow rate is at the preset first level, the water replenishment device 9 sprays water onto the ice bucket wall 12 through the second water replenishment level to obtain a second water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the second water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate.

[0090] Furthermore, in the water replenishment detection logic of the water replenishment device 9, L3 is set as the standard ice-making water flow rate, L2 and L1 are two levels of relatively low water and severe water shortage, and the water replenishment device 9 is divided into two levels of V1 and V2. V1 is the smaller water replenishment amount, and V2 is the larger water replenishment amount. That is, the preset standard ice-making water flow rate is L3, the preset second level is L2, the preset first level is L1, the first water replenishment level is V1, and the second water replenishment level is V2.

[0091] Please see Figure 9The water replenishment principle flowchart of the water replenishment device is as follows: When chilled water flows from the water distribution plate 1 to the ice maker bucket wall 12, the water volume sensors 11 at the top and bottom of the water spray device 10 begin to detect the water flow in the lower part of the ice maker bucket. In the detection logic, L3 is set as the standard ice-making water flow, and L2 and L1 are two levels: relatively low water and severely low water. When the water volume sensor 11 detects that the water flow in the ice maker bucket is lower than L3, the water spray device 10 will activate the water replenishment mode and spray water onto the ice maker bucket wall 12 to maintain the set water flow. When the water volume sensor 11 detects that the water flow in the ice maker bucket reaches L3... At this time, the water spray device 10 does not need to activate the water replenishment mode; while the water replenishment device 9 has two settings, V1 and V2, where V1 is a smaller water replenishment volume and V2 is a larger water replenishment volume; when the water flow sensor 11 detects a water flow of L2, and L2 is less than L3, the water replenishment device 9 will spray water at setting V1 to replenish water, so that the water replenishment volume is V1, in order to achieve a water replenishment effect of L2+V1>L3; when the water flow sensor 11 detects a water flow of L1, and L1 is less than L3, the water replenishment device 9 will spray water at setting V2 to replenish water, so that the water replenishment volume is V2, in order to maintain the water flow in the ice bucket wall 12.

[0092] Furthermore, in the water distribution structure of the flake ice machine, the water distribution plate 1 maintains a certain water volume, which can control the water output. The arc-shaped water discharge convex plate 4 provides uniformity for the water flow direction, and the water distribution blades 5 provide the directionality of the water flow during operation, which greatly optimizes the flow of chilled water from the water distribution plate 1 to the wall 12 of the refrigeration tank, changing the original scattered water flow and improving uniformity. The water supply pipe 8 and the water spray device 10 solve the problem of uneven overall water flow to a certain extent. The addition of the water volume sensor 11 also achieves the effect of precise water supply, improving the utilization rate of chilled water. At the same time, chilled water can also flow into the ice-making tank from different places, greatly improving the utilization rate of chilled water. The effect achieved is to improve the ice-making efficiency, reduce the ice-making water circulation volume, and improve the ice-forming rate and working efficiency.

[0093] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner as long as there is no structural conflict. The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A water separation structure for a flake ice machine, comprising: A water distribution plate with side edge water outlet holes is characterized in that a water inlet is provided on the water distribution plate, a water outlet convex plate is coupled to the bottom of the water distribution plate, and water distribution blades are provided on the surface of the water outlet convex plate. During the ice-making process, ice-making water enters the water distribution plate through the water inlet, and the water outlet holes on the side edge of the water distribution plate guide the ice-making water to the water distribution blades, thereby forming a uniform water flow through the water distribution blades. A water distribution hole is provided at the bottom of the water distribution plate, and a water supply pipe is coupled inside the water distribution hole. A water supply device is connected below the water supply pipe so that after the ice-making water flows to the water distribution plate, it flows through the water distribution hole into the water supply pipe until the ice-making water flows into the water supply device. The water replenishment device is equipped with a water spraying device and water volume sensors at both ends of the water replenishment device. The water volume sensors detect the water flow in the ice maker, and the water spraying device adds a corresponding amount of water to the ice maker based on the detected water flow to ensure a minimum standard water flow.

2. The water separation structure of the flake ice machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water distribution plate includes a water pan and a water outlet. The water pan has a certain depth so that when ice-making water enters the water distribution plate from the inlet, the water pan can maintain a certain water level and control the consistency of the water outlet speed. The water outlet guides the ice-making water to flow into the next-level drain cam.

3. The water separation structure of the flake ice machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-distributing blade has a sloping structure, with the highest point of the water-distributing blade connected to the bottom of the water-distributing plate. The water-distributing blade extends from high to low to the edge of the water-draining convex plate, so that when the ice-making water flows down from the water-distributing plate, the ice-making water forms a uniform water flow along the water-distributing blade.

4. The water separation structure of the flake ice machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of water outlet holes is proportional to the number of water-dividing blades, wherein the number of water-dividing blades can only be less than or equal to the number of water outlet holes.

5. A water replenishment control method using the water distribution structure of a flake ice machine according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The flow rate of water in the ice-making bucket is detected by a water volume sensor; When the water flow reaches the preset standard ice-making water flow, the water spray device does not need to activate the water replenishment mode; When the water flow rate is lower than the preset standard ice-making water flow rate, the water spraying device activates the water replenishment mode and sprays water onto the ice-making barrel wall until the water flow rate after spraying reaches the standard ice-making water flow rate.

6. The water replenishment control method for the water distribution structure of the flake ice machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the water flow rate is the preset second level, the water replenishment device sprays water to the ice bucket wall through the first water replenishment level to obtain the first water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the first water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate. When the water flow rate is at the preset first level, the water replenishment device sprays water onto the ice bucket wall through the second water replenishment level to obtain a second water replenishment amount, until the sum of the water flow rate and the second water replenishment amount is greater than the standard ice-making water flow rate.

7. A flake ice machine, characterized in that, The flake ice machine is detachably provided with a flake ice machine water distribution structure as described in any one of 1-4 inside the flake ice machine.

8. The flake ice machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water flow direction is controlled by the water distribution plate, and the water flows to the ice-making tank wall of the flake ice machine according to the flow direction, thereby improving the utilization rate of ice-making water.

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