Refrigeration appliance and control method thereof

By setting up an automatic water injection kettle and manual water intake ports in the refrigerator dispenser room, as well as a water storage detection device, the problem of long water withdrawal time for users is solved, and a variety of convenient water withdrawal methods and overflow management are realized, improving the user experience.

CN119197005APending Publication Date: 2024-12-27QINDAO HAIER REFRIGERATOR CO LTD +2
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202310764201.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-06-26
Publication Date
2024-12-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing refrigerator external water withdrawal function takes a long time when the user takes in water for a large amount of water, which cannot meet the user's various water withdrawal needs.

Method used

The first water outlet for automatic water injection kettle and the second water outlet for user manual water withdrawal are arranged in the dispenser room, and a first water tray, a second water tray and a water storage detection device are arranged under the automatic water injection kettle to facilitate users Take in small amounts and large amounts of water.

Benefits of technology

It enables users to withdraw small amounts and large amounts of water, avoid wasting user time, meet various water intake needs, and reminds users to clean overflow water through water storage detection devices to prevent damage to electronic devices and improve user experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention provides a refrigeration appliance and a control method thereof. The refrigeration electric appliance comprises a distributor chamber, a first water outlet, a second water outlet, an automatic water injection kettle, a first water disc, a first water storage tank, a second water storage tank, a second water storage tank, a second water storage tank, a first water storage tank and a second water storage tank, wherein the first water outlet and the second water outlet are arranged in the distributor chamber; the automatic water injection kettle is arranged below the first water outlet; the first water disc is used for bearing the automatic water injection kettle; the second water disc is arranged below the second water outlet, the second water storage tank is formed in the second water disc, and the water storage detection device is used for detecting water stored in the first water storage tank and the second water storage tank. Through the arrangement, a user can conveniently take a small amount of water and a large amount of water.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of household appliances, and in particular to a refrigeration appliance and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] In order to meet the daily water needs of users, refrigerators are generally equipped with an external water intake function. The existing external water intake function of refrigerators is generally achieved by setting a distributor chamber on the door of the refrigerator refrigeration chamber, and the upper part of the distributor chamber is provided with a water intake for users to collect water. The bottom wall of the distributor chamber is provided with a water storage pan, which can receive water dripping from the water intake to prevent water from flowing out of the distributor chamber. However, this design has the following defects: when the user takes a large amount of water, it takes a long time to get water from the water intake. Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a refrigeration appliance and a control method thereof. By arranging a first water outlet for automatically filling water into an automatic water filling kettle and a second water outlet for users to manually take water in a dispenser chamber, and arranging a first water tray under the automatic water filling kettle, and arranging a second water tray and a water storage detection device under the second water outlet, it is possible to facilitate users to take water in small or large amounts.

[0004] To achieve the above-mentioned object of the invention, one embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigeration appliance, which includes a distributor chamber;

[0005] A first water outlet, disposed in the distributor chamber;

[0006] An automatic water filling kettle, which is removably arranged below the first water outlet, and the first water outlet is used to automatically fill water into the automatic water filling kettle;

[0007] a first water tray, disposed on the bottom wall of the dispenser chamber and used to carry the automatic water filling kettle, the first water tray having a first water storage tank, the first water storage tank being used to receive water overflowing from the automatic water filling kettle;

[0008] a second water outlet, disposed in the distributor chamber;

[0009] a second water tray, arranged on the bottom wall of the distributor chamber and placed below the second water outlet, the second water tray having a second water storage tank, the second water storage tank being used to receive water dropped from the second water outlet;

[0010] A water storage detection device is used to detect the water storage in the first water storage tank and the second water storage tank, so that the refrigeration appliance can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet and output a signal for cleaning the water in the first water tray and / or the second water tray according to the detection result of the water storage detection device.

[0011] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein an overflow channel is provided between the first water storage tank and the second water storage tank, the water in the second water storage tank can flow into the first water storage tank through the overflow channel, the water storage detection device is a liquid level sensor, the water storage detection device is installed on the side wall of the first water storage tank, the water storage detection device is used to output a signal when the water in the first water storage tank reaches a preset water level, and the water storage detection device adopts a waterproof sensor.

[0012] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the first water tray is recessed downward to form a shelf groove, the shelf groove is used to place the automatic water filling kettle, the bottom wall of the shelf groove is recessed downward to form the first water storage groove, a water flow channel is provided between the side wall of the shelf groove and the side wall of the second water storage groove, the overflow channel includes the shelf groove and the water flow channel, when the water in the second water storage groove reaches a preset water level, the water in the second water storage groove flows into the first water storage groove through the water flow channel and the shelf groove.

[0013] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, in the refrigeration appliance, the first water tray has a first inclined surface arranged on the front side of the shelf groove, and the first inclined surface gradually extends downward from the back to the front.

[0014] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the second water tray has a second inclined surface arranged between the front wall of the second water tray and the front wall of the second water storage tank, the second inclined surface extends forward and downward from the front wall of the second water storage tank to the front wall of the second water tray, and the height of the second inclined surface on the side of the front wall of the second water storage tank is higher than the height of the bottom wall of the water flow channel.

[0015] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, in the refrigeration appliance, the first water tray and the second water tray are integrally arranged.

[0016] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance also includes a water temperature detection device and a display device, the water temperature detection device is used to detect the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle, the display device can display the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle detected by the water temperature detection device, the water temperature detection device is arranged in the dispenser chamber, the water temperature detection device and the automatic water filling kettle are arranged in a non-contact manner, and the water temperature detection device is an infrared temperature sensor.

[0017] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance also includes a water level detection device and a display device, the water level detection device is used to detect the water level of the automatic water filling kettle, and the display device can display the water level of the automatic water filling kettle detected by the water level detection device.

[0018] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the water level detection device includes a first liquid level sensor, a second liquid level sensor, and a third liquid level sensor, the height of the first liquid level sensor is located at the upper part of the automatic water filling kettle, and the first liquid level sensor is located below the water filling port of the automatic water filling kettle, the water filling port and the first water outlet cooperate, the height of the second liquid level sensor is located in the middle part of the automatic water filling kettle, the height of the third liquid level sensor is located at the lower part of the automatic water filling kettle, and the water level detection device is arranged in the distribution chamber.

[0019] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance also includes a dispenser chamber door and a door lock, the dispenser chamber door is used to open and close the dispenser chamber, the door lock is arranged on the dispenser chamber door, the door lock is used to lock the dispenser chamber door in a position to close the dispenser chamber, the door lock is a push-type door lock, when the door lock is pressed, the door lock opens so that the dispenser chamber door can be opened, the refrigeration appliance also includes a pressure detection device, the pressure detection device and the door lock are arranged in cooperation, the pressure detection device is used to detect whether the door lock is pressed, so that the refrigeration appliance can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet according to the signal output by the pressure detection device.

[0020] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance is provided with a bracket in the dispenser chamber, the bracket extends along the height direction of the automatic water filling kettle, the bracket and the side wall of the automatic water filling kettle are cooperated, the first liquid level sensor, the second liquid level sensor, and the third liquid level sensor are all arranged on the bracket, and the bracket and the first water tray are integrally arranged.

[0021] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance, wherein the water storage detection device is composed of two liquid level sensors, one liquid level sensor in the water storage detection device is arranged on the side wall of the first water storage tank, and the other liquid level sensor is arranged on the side wall of the second water storage tank, and the water storage detection device adopts a waterproof sensor.

[0022] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration appliance comprises a box body, a cold storage chamber arranged in the box body, and a door body for opening and closing the cold storage chamber, the door body is provided with the dispenser chamber and the ice-making chamber, the ice-making chamber is placed above the dispenser chamber, the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber are both open to the outside, an ice-guiding channel is provided between the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber, the ice-guiding channel comprises an ice outlet arranged in the dispenser chamber, the door body is provided with an ice-making chamber door for opening and closing the ice-making chamber, the door body is also provided with a dispenser chamber door capable of opening and closing the dispenser chamber, the dispenser chamber door is provided on the outside of the ice-making chamber door, and the dispenser chamber door covers the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber at the same time.

[0023] To achieve the above-mentioned object of the invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a control method for a refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance is as described in any of the above-mentioned embodiments, and the control method comprises:

[0024] Acquire a water storage signal indicating that water is stored in the first water tray;

[0025] The first water outlet is controlled to be closed or kept closed according to the acquired water storage signal, and a signal for cleaning the water stored in the first water tray and the second water tray is output.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a first water outlet for automatically filling water into the automatic water filling kettle and a second water outlet for users to manually take water in the dispenser chamber, and provides a first water tray under the automatic water filling kettle, a second water tray under the second water outlet, and a water storage detection device. The beneficial effect of the present invention is that it can facilitate users to take small and large amounts of water. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The specific implementation of the present invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the integrated first water tray, the second water tray and the bracket;

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The schematic diagram of the structure of the water storage detection device, the water quantity detection device and the bracket shown;

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the coordination height of the first liquid level sensor, the second liquid level sensor, the third liquid level sensor and the automatic water filling kettle is shown;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The structure diagram of another embodiment of the water storage detection device, the water quantity detection device and the bracket is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present invention will be described in detail below in conjunction with the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional changes made by a person skilled in the art based on these embodiments are all within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, a refrigeration appliance is provided. The refrigeration appliance may be a freezer, a commercial display cabinet, etc. Preferably, the refrigeration appliance is a refrigerator. The refrigeration appliance and the control method of the refrigeration appliance in the present invention are described below using a refrigerator as an example.

[0035] Reference Figure 1 In the present embodiment, the refrigerator 100 may include a dispenser chamber 6 , and the refrigerator 100 may include a cabinet 1 , a refrigerating chamber 2 disposed in the cabinet 1 , and a door 3 for opening and closing the refrigerating chamber 2 .

[0036] The door body 3 may be provided with a dispenser chamber 6 and an ice making chamber 5. The ice making chamber 5 may be placed above the dispenser chamber 6, and both the ice making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6 may be opened outward. An ice guide channel may be provided between the ice making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6, and the ice guide channel may include an ice outlet provided in the dispenser chamber 6.

[0037] The door body 3 may be provided with an ice making chamber door 53 for opening and closing the ice making chamber 5. The door body 3 may also be provided with a dispenser chamber door 4 capable of opening and closing the opening of the dispenser chamber 6. The dispenser chamber door 4 may be provided outside the ice making chamber door 53, and the dispenser chamber door 4 may cover the outsides of the ice making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6 at the same time.

[0038] In this embodiment, up and down may refer to the height direction of the refrigerator 100. Front and back may refer to the thickness direction of the refrigerator 100, wherein the opening direction of the refrigerator compartment 2 of the refrigerator 100 may be the front. Left and right may refer to the left and right directions when a person faces the opening of the refrigerator compartment 2.

[0039] The ice-making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6 are both opened outwardly, which may mean that the openings of the ice-making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6 are both toward the side away from the opening of the refrigerating chamber 2 .

[0040] The ice making chamber 5 may be provided with an ice maker 51 and an ice storage box 52 placed below the ice maker 51, and the side wall of the ice making chamber 5 may be provided with an air inlet and an air return port. The housing 1 may be provided with an evaporator chamber. The ice making chamber 5 may be connected to the evaporator chamber through the air inlet and the air return port. Cold air in the evaporator chamber blows from the air inlet to the ice maker 51, so that the water in the ice maker 51 is cooled to make ice cubes. The ice cubes made by the ice maker 51 can be stored in the ice storage box 52. An opening may be provided at the bottom of the ice storage box 52, and an ice guide channel may be connected to the opening at the bottom of the ice storage box 52 to transport the ice cubes to the dispenser chamber 6.

[0041] The ice outlet can be arranged at the upper part of the dispenser chamber 6 and open downward. Without opening the door body 3, that is, without opening the refrigerating chamber 2, the user can use the dispenser chamber 6 by opening the dispenser chamber door 4 on the door body 3, for example, to take ice from the ice outlet of the dispenser chamber 6.

[0042] After opening the dispenser chamber door 4 on the door body 3, the user can use the ice making chamber 5 by opening the ice making chamber door 53 on the door body 3, for example, taking ice from the ice storage box 52 in the ice making chamber 5. Thus, the user can use the ice making chamber 5 and the dispenser chamber 6 without opening the refrigerating chamber 2.

[0043] Reference Figures 1 to 3 In this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 may further include: a first water outlet, which is arranged in the dispenser chamber 6; an automatic water filling kettle 7, which is detachably arranged below the first water outlet, and the first water outlet is used to automatically fill water into the automatic water filling kettle 7; a first water tray 8, which is arranged on the bottom wall of the dispenser chamber 6 and is used to carry the automatic water filling kettle 7, and the first water tray 8 has a first water storage tank 81, and the first water storage tank 81 is used to receive water overflowing from the automatic water filling kettle 7; a second water outlet, which is arranged in the dispenser chamber 6; a second water tray 9, which is arranged on the bottom wall of the dispenser chamber 6 and is placed below the second water outlet, and the second water tray 9 has a second water storage tank 91, and the second water storage tank 91 is used to receive water falling from the second water outlet; a water storage detection device 11, which is used to detect the water in the first water storage tank 81 and the second water storage tank 91, so that the refrigerator 100 can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet and output a signal for cleaning the water in the first water tray 8 and / or the second water tray 9 according to the detection result of the water storage detection device 11.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first water outlet and the second water outlet can be both arranged at the upper part of the dispenser chamber 6 and both open downward. The second water outlet can be arranged adjacent to the ice outlet. The first water outlet and the second water outlet can be arranged laterally spaced to avoid mutual interference between the first water outlet, the second water outlet and the ice outlet when in use.

[0045] The automatic water filling kettle 7 may include a kettle body for storing water. The upper end of the kettle body may be open, and a kettle cover may be provided on the upper end of the kettle body. The kettle cover may be provided with a water injection port 71 for injecting water into the automatic water filling kettle 7. The water injection port 71 cooperates with the first water outlet. A handle may also be provided on the kettle body of the automatic water filling kettle 7. When the automatic water filling kettle 7 is placed below the first water outlet, the water injection port 71 of the automatic water filling kettle 7 is directly opposite to the first water outlet. When certain conditions are met, the refrigerator 100 may automatically inject water into the automatic water filling kettle 7 by opening the first water outlet until a certain amount of water is injected into the automatic water filling kettle 7 and the first water outlet is closed.

[0046] The second water outlet can be manually opened and closed by the user. For example, the user can manually press a tongue or a button to make the water in the refrigerator 100 flow out from the second water outlet, and the second water outlet can be set so that the user can control the water discharge time of the second water outlet by controlling the pressing time.

[0047] When the user needs to take a large amount of water, the user can directly take out the automatic water filling kettle 7 from the dispenser chamber 6 for use; when the user needs to take a small amount of water, the user can take a water storage container such as a water cup to get water from the second water outlet. This arrangement can facilitate the user to take a large amount of water or a small amount of water, avoid wasting the user's time, and meet the user's various water needs.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 may also include a water temperature detection device. The water temperature detection device may be used to detect the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The water temperature detection device may be communicatively connected to the control module of the refrigerator. The water temperature detection device may detect the water temperature in the automatic water filling kettle 7 in real time and transmit it to the control module of the refrigerator.

[0049] The water temperature detection device can be arranged in the dispenser chamber 6. The water temperature detection device can be arranged in a non-contact manner with the automatic water filling kettle 7. The water temperature detection device can be an infrared temperature sensor. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the water temperature detection device can also use other types of temperature sensors other than infrared temperature sensors. The water temperature detection device can also be arranged on the automatic water filling kettle 7, for example, arranged in the automatic water filling kettle 7, or arranged to be attached to the automatic water filling kettle 7, so as to detect the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle 7.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 may further include a display device. The display device may be in communication connection with the control module. The display device may include a display screen. Under the control of the control module of the refrigerator, the display device may display the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle 7 detected by the water temperature detection device, so that the user may accurately and timely understand the water temperature in the automatic water filling kettle 7 without opening the door.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 Furthermore, in this embodiment, the refrigerator 100 may further include a water amount detection device 12. The water amount detection device 12 is used to detect the water amount of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The water amount detection device 12 can be connected to the control module of the refrigerator for communication, and transmit the detected water amount information of the automatic water filling kettle 7 to the control module.

[0052] Under the control of the control module, the display device can display the water level of the automatic water filling kettle 7 detected by the water level detection device 12, so that the user can accurately and timely understand the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 without opening the refrigerator door.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 Preferably, in this embodiment, the water level detection device 12 may include a first liquid level sensor 121, a second liquid level sensor 122, and a third liquid level sensor 123. The height of the first liquid level sensor 121 may be located at the upper part of the automatic water filling kettle 7, and the first liquid level sensor 121 is located below the water filling port 71 of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The water filling port 71 cooperates with the first water outlet. The height of the second liquid level sensor 122 may be located in the middle of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The height of the third liquid level sensor 123 may be located at the lower part of the automatic water filling kettle 7.

[0054] In this embodiment, the water amount detection device 12 can be arranged in the distribution chamber. The water amount detection device 12 can be arranged in a non-contact manner with the automatic water filling kettle 7. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the water amount detection device 12 can also be arranged on the automatic water filling kettle 7, for example, arranged in the automatic water filling kettle 7, or arranged to be attached to the automatic water filling kettle 7, so as to realize the detection of the water amount of the automatic water filling kettle 7.

[0055] When the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 reaches the height of the first liquid level sensor 121, the first liquid level sensor 121, the second liquid level sensor 122, and the third liquid level sensor 123 can all detect that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 and send a signal to the control module. The control module can control the display device to display whether the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 is too much or full according to the signal transmitted by the water level detection device 12.

[0056] When the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 reaches or exceeds the height of the second liquid level sensor 122 and is lower than the height of the first liquid level sensor 121, the second liquid level sensor 122 and the third liquid level sensor 123 can detect that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 and send a signal to the control module. The control module can control the display device to display that the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 is medium according to the signal transmitted by the water level detection device 12.

[0057] When the amount of water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 is lower than the height of the second liquid level sensor 122, only the third liquid level sensor 123 can detect that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 and send a signal to the control module. The control module can control the display device to display that the amount of water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 is a small amount according to the signal transmitted by the water amount detection device 12.

[0058] In addition, when the first liquid level sensor 121 detects that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7, the first water outlet can be controlled to be closed to prevent the first water outlet from continuing to inject water into the automatic water filling kettle 7 and causing the water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 to overflow.

[0059] Further, in this embodiment, a bracket 10 may be provided in the dispenser chamber 6. The bracket 10 may extend along the height direction of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The bracket 10 may be provided in cooperation with the side wall of the automatic water filling kettle 7. The first liquid level sensor 121, the second liquid level sensor 122, and the third liquid level sensor 123 may all be provided on the bracket 10.

[0060] The bracket 10 can be integrally provided with the first water tray 8. The water temperature detection device can also be provided on the bracket 10. In addition, the water quantity detection device 12 can be provided on the side of the bracket 10 away from the automatic water filling kettle 7 to achieve a hidden setting of the water quantity detection device 12 and to avoid water ingress to the water quantity detection device 12 as much as possible.

[0061] Of course, refer to Figure 5 In other embodiments of the present invention, the water level detection device 12 may only include a liquid level sensor. The water level detection device 12 may be disposed on the upper portion of the automatic water filling kettle 7 and below the water filling port 71 of the automatic water filling kettle 7 .

[0062] When the water level detection device 12 detects that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7, the control module can control the display device to display that the water level in the automatic water filling kettle 7 is full according to the signal transmitted by the water level detection device 12. When the water level detection device 12 detects that there is water in the automatic water filling kettle 7, the first water outlet can be controlled to be closed to prevent the first water outlet from continuing to inject water into the automatic water filling kettle 7 and causing the water in the automatic water filling kettle 7 to overflow.

[0063] Because the water quantity detection device 12 may malfunction and other factors, the first water outlet may continue to inject water into the automatic water filling kettle 7, causing water to overflow from the automatic water filling kettle 7, or the user may take water improperly, causing water flowing out of the second water outlet to fall into the dispenser chamber 6, or the first water outlet or the second water outlet may be not closed tightly, causing water to fall into the dispenser chamber 6.

[0064] These situations may cause water to accumulate in the dispenser chamber 6, or even cause water to leak from the dispenser chamber 6 to the outside of the refrigerator 100, and may even cause electronic components at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or other parts of the refrigerator 100 to be damaged due to water ingress, thereby affecting the user experience.

[0065] In order to avoid the above situation, a first water tray 8 can be arranged below the first water outlet, and the water overflowing from the automatic water filling kettle 7 or falling from the first water outlet can be stored through a first water storage tank 81 formed in the first water tray 8. At the same time, a second water tray 9 can be arranged below the second water outlet, and the water falling from the second water outlet can be stored through a second water storage tank 91 formed in the second water tray 9.

[0066] Furthermore, a water storage detection device 11 may be provided to detect the water storage in the first water storage tank 81 and the second water storage tank 91. The refrigerator 100 may be provided with a control module, such as a processor. When the water storage in the first water storage tank 81 or the second water storage tank 91 reaches a certain amount, the water storage detection device 11 may transmit a signal to the control module of the refrigerator 100, and the control module may control the first water outlet to be in a closed state according to the signal transmitted by the water storage detection device 11, and may output a signal to remind the user to clean the water in the first water tray 8 or the second water tray 9.

[0067] The water quantity detection device 12 and the water storage detection device 11 both use non-contact capacitive liquid level sensors, and other types of liquid level sensors may also be used. The water quantity detection device 12 and the water storage detection device 11 may both use waterproof sensors. The height at which the water storage detection device 11 is set may be determined according to the water storage volume preset in the first water storage tank 81 or the second water storage tank 91.

[0068] The refrigerator 100 may be provided with a voice module that is in communication with the control module, and the refrigerator 100 may output a signal for cleaning the water in the first water tray 8 or the second water tray 9 to the user through a display screen or voice broadcast.

[0069] Such a configuration can facilitate users to take large amounts of water or small amounts of water, can avoid wasting users' time, and meet users' various water-taking needs. At the same time, it can accommodate water that overflows from a kettle or drops from the water outlet in the dispenser, can remind users to clean the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 in time, and can prevent water from overflowing from the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9, causing damage to electronic devices arranged at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or electronic devices arranged in other parts of the refrigerator 100, thereby improving users' experience of using the refrigerator 100.

[0070] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an overflow channel 13 may be provided between the first water storage tank 81 and the second water storage tank 91 , and the water in the second water storage tank 91 may flow into the first water storage tank 81 through the overflow channel 13 .

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the water storage detection device 11 is a liquid level sensor. The water storage detection device 11 can be installed on the side wall of the first water storage tank. The water storage detection device 11 can be used to output a signal when the water in the first water storage tank reaches a preset water level.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the water detection device 11 can be placed on the lower side of the bracket 10. The water detection device 11 can be arranged on the side of the bracket 10 away from the first water outlet. In this way, the water detection device 11 can be prevented from contacting with water as much as possible, and the water detection device 11 can be prevented from being damaged by water ingress.

[0073] Of course, in other embodiments, the overflow channel 13 can also be configured to enable the water in the first water storage tank 81 to flow into the second water storage tank 91. Accordingly, the water storage detection device 11 can be disposed on the side wall of the second water storage tank 91 and used to output a signal when the water in the second water storage tank 91 reaches a preset water level.

[0074] With such an arrangement, a water level sensor can be provided to prevent water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 from overflowing at the same time, which has a simple structure and is easy to control.

[0075] Reference Figure 5 Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the first water tray 8 is recessed downward to form a shelf groove 83, and the shelf groove 83 is used to place the automatic water filling kettle 7. The bottom wall of the shelf groove 83 is recessed downward to form the first water storage groove 81. A water flow channel 14 is provided between the side wall of the shelf groove 83 and the side wall of the second water storage groove 91. The overflow channel 13 may include the shelf groove 83 and the water flow channel 14. When the water in the second water storage groove 91 reaches a preset water level, the water in the second water storage groove 91 flows into the first water storage groove 81 through the water flow channel 14 and the shelf groove 83.

[0076] Such an arrangement can realize the stable placement of the automatic water filling kettle 7, and can prevent the water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 from overflowing by setting a water level sensor at the same time, with a simple structure and convenient control.

[0077] Reference Figure 2 Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the first water tray 8 has a first inclined surface 82 disposed at the front side of the shelf groove 83, and the first inclined surface 82 gradually extends downward from the back to the front.

[0078] When the user needs to place the automatic water filling kettle 7 into the dispenser chamber 6, the user can first make the bottom surface of the kettle 7 contact the first inclined surface 82, and then push the kettle 7 toward the shelf groove 83, so that the kettle 7 slides into the shelf groove 83 through the first inclined surface 82. Such a configuration can facilitate the user to place the automatic water filling kettle 7, with a simple structure and convenient configuration.

[0079] Reference Figure 2 Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the second water tray 9 has a second inclined surface 92 disposed between the front wall of the second water tray 9 and the front wall of the second water storage tank 91, the second inclined surface 92 extends forward and downward from the front wall of the second water storage tank 91 to the front wall of the second water tray 9, and the height of the second inclined surface 92 on the front wall side of the second water storage tank 91 is higher than the height of the bottom wall of the water flow channel 14.

[0080] With such arrangement, if the water storage detection device 11 fails, the water in the first water storage tank 81 and the second water storage tank 91 can flow out of the dispenser chamber 6 from the front side of the dispenser chamber 6 under the guidance of the second inclined surface 92, thereby preventing the water in the first water storage tank 81 and the second water storage tank 91 from seeping around in the dispenser chamber 6, thereby avoiding damage to electronic components arranged at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or electronic components arranged in other parts of the refrigerator 100 as much as possible.

[0081] Reference Figure 2 Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 are integrally arranged.

[0082] Such an arrangement can reduce the connection gap between the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9, so that the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 can cover the bottom wall of the dispenser chamber 6 as tightly as possible, preventing water from seeping into the bottom of the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 due to splashing or overflowing, and can avoid damage to electronic devices arranged at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or electronic devices arranged in other parts of the refrigerator 100 as much as possible.

[0083] Reference Figure 2 Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first inclined surface 82 and the second inclined surface 92 can be coplanar and can be integrally arranged. The water flow channel 14 can be formed by the upper walls of the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 located between the shelf groove 83 and the second water storage groove 91 being recessed downward. Such an arrangement has a simple structure, is convenient to arrange, and has a good use effect.

[0084] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the bracket 10 , the first water tray 8 , and the second water tray 9 are all disposed in the distributor chamber 6 , and the peripheries of the bracket 10 , the first water tray 8 , and the second water tray 9 are all extended to connect with the side wall of the distributor chamber 6 .

[0085] Such an arrangement can avoid the formation of a connecting gap between the bracket 10 and the first water tray 8, and can prevent water from penetrating through the gap into the space between the bracket 10, the first water tray 8, the second water tray 9 and the wall of the dispenser chamber 6, thereby avoiding damage to electronic components arranged at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or electronic components arranged in other parts of the refrigerator 100 as much as possible.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the present invention also provides a control method for the refrigerator 100, and the control method may include:

[0087] Obtaining a water storage signal indicating that there is water in the first water tray 8;

[0088] The first water outlet is controlled to be closed or kept closed according to the acquired water storage signal, and a signal for cleaning the water stored in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 is output.

[0089] In this embodiment, as long as a water storage signal is obtained indicating that there is water in the first water tray 8, no matter the reason for the water in the first water tray 8 is because the first water outlet continuously injects water into the automatic water filling kettle 7, causing water overflow, or because the water in the second water tray 9 flows into the first water tray 8, the first water outlet is closed and the user is reminded to clean the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9. With such a configuration, the control method is simpler and more convenient, and the user can be reminded to clean the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 in time, and the water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 can be prevented from overflowing as much as possible.

[0090] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the water storage detection device 11 may be composed of two liquid level sensors, one of the liquid level sensors in the water storage detection device 11 is disposed on the side wall of the first water storage tank, and the other liquid level sensor is disposed on the side wall of the second water storage tank.

[0091] The first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 can be separated or integrated. The water storage detection device 11 can be used to output a signal when the water in the first water storage tank 81 reaches a predetermined water level. The water storage detection device 11 can be used to output a signal when the water in the second water storage tank 91 reaches a predetermined water level.

[0092] Such arrangement can respectively detect whether the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 are overflowing, can prevent the water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 from overflowing, and can avoid the water storage detection device 11 and the water storage detection device 11 being damaged by water ingress.

[0093] Further, in one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 further includes a dispenser chamber door 4 and a door lock 15. The dispenser chamber door 4 is used to open and close the dispenser chamber 6. The door lock 15 can be provided on the dispenser chamber door 4, and the door lock 15 can be used to lock the dispenser chamber door 4 in a position to close the dispenser chamber 6. The door lock 15 can be a push-type door lock, and when the door lock 15 is pressed, the door lock 15 opens to enable the dispenser chamber door 4 to be opened.

[0094] The refrigerator 100 may further include a pressure detection device, which may be provided in conjunction with the door lock 15, and is used to detect whether the door lock 15 is pressed, so that the refrigerator 100 can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet according to a signal output by the pressure detection device.

[0095] When the pressure detection device detects that the door lock 15 is pressed, it indicates that the user is opening the dispenser chamber door 4 and the user wants to use the dispenser chamber 6. The control module of the refrigerator can control the first water outlet to close according to the signal transmitted by the pressure detection device, so that the first water outlet stops injecting water into the automatic water filling kettle 7. In this way, when the dispenser chamber door 4 is opened, the first water outlet is always closed to prevent water from splashing out of the first water outlet, or the first water outlet injects water into the automatic water filling kettle 7, which affects the user's use of the dispenser chamber 6, such as taking the automatic water filling kettle 7.

[0096] Specifically, the pressure detection device can be a pressure sensor, or an electrical switch triggered when the door lock 15 is pressed, which can output a corresponding signal to the control module of the refrigerator when the door lock 15 is pressed.

[0097] Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the door lock 15 may be an automatic door lock 15. The user does not need to manually press the door lock 15, and can input an instruction to open the door lock 15 to the refrigerator through a display screen or voice. When the refrigerator receives an instruction to open the dispenser chamber door 4 input by the user, the control module of the refrigerator can first detect whether the first water outlet is closed. If the first water outlet is in an open state, the first water outlet can be controlled to be closed first, and then the door lock 15 can be controlled to be opened, so that the first water outlet is closed before the dispenser chamber door 4 is opened, and the first water outlet is ensured to be in a closed state when the dispenser chamber door 4 is opened.

[0098] In summary, the refrigeration appliance and the control method of the refrigeration appliance in the present invention can solve the problem in the prior art that when the user takes a large amount of water, it takes a long time to take water from the water inlet. The technical solution in the present application can facilitate the user to take a large amount of water or a small amount of water, avoid wasting the user's time, and meet the user's various water needs. At the same time, it can accommodate overflowed or dropped water, and can remind the user to clean the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 in time. It can prevent the water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 from overflowing by setting a water level sensor. It has a simple structure and is easy to control. It can avoid the water in the first water tray 8 and the second water tray 9 from overflowing, which causes damage to the electronic devices arranged at the bottom of the dispenser chamber 6 or the electronic devices arranged in other parts of the refrigerator 100, and can improve the user's experience of using the refrigerator 100.

[0099] It should be understood that although this specification is described according to implementation modes, not every implementation mode contains only one independent technical solution. This description of the specification is only for the sake of clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each implementation mode may also be appropriately combined to form other implementation modes that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0100] The series of detailed descriptions listed above are only specific descriptions of feasible implementation methods of the present invention. They are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any equivalent implementation methods or changes that do not deviate from the technical spirit of the present invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A refrigeration appliance, characterized in that: including a dispenser chamber; A first water outlet, disposed in the distributor chamber; An automatic water filling kettle, which is removably arranged below the first water outlet, and the first water outlet is used to automatically fill water into the automatic water filling kettle; a first water tray, disposed on the bottom wall of the dispenser chamber and used to carry the automatic water filling kettle, the first water tray having a first water storage tank, the first water storage tank being used to receive water overflowing from the automatic water filling kettle; a second water outlet, disposed in the distributor chamber; a second water tray, arranged on the bottom wall of the distributor chamber and placed below the second water outlet, the second water tray having a second water storage tank, the second water storage tank being used to receive water dropped from the second water outlet; A water storage detection device is used to detect the water storage in the first water storage tank and the second water storage tank, so that the refrigeration appliance can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet and output a signal for cleaning the water in the first water tray and / or the second water tray according to the detection result of the water storage detection device.

2. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: An overflow channel is provided between the first water storage tank and the second water storage tank, and the water in the second water storage tank can flow into the first water storage tank through the overflow channel. The water storage detection device is a liquid level sensor, and the water storage detection device is installed on the side wall of the first water storage tank. The water storage detection device is used to output a signal when the water in the first water storage tank reaches a preset water level, and the water storage detection device adopts a waterproof sensor.

3. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first water tray is recessed downward to form a shelf groove, and the shelf groove is used to place the automatic water filling kettle. The bottom wall of the shelf groove is recessed downward to form the first water storage groove. A water flow channel is provided between the side wall of the shelf groove and the side wall of the second water storage groove. The overflow channel includes the shelf groove and the water flow channel. When the water in the second water storage groove reaches a preset water level, the water in the second water storage groove flows into the first water storage groove through the water flow channel and the shelf groove.

4. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first water tray has a first inclined surface arranged at the front side of the shelf groove, and the first inclined surface gradually extends downward from the back to the front.

5. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second water tray has a second inclined surface arranged between the front wall of the second water tray and the front wall of the second water storage tank. The second inclined surface extends forward and downward from the front wall of the second water storage tank to the front wall of the second water tray. The height of the second inclined surface on the side of the front wall of the second water storage tank is higher than the height of the bottom wall of the water flow channel.

6. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first water tray and the second water tray are integrally arranged.

7. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The refrigeration appliance also includes a water temperature detection device and a display device. The water temperature detection device is used to detect the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle. The display device can display the water temperature of the automatic water filling kettle detected by the water temperature detection device. The water temperature detection device is arranged in the dispenser chamber. The water temperature detection device and the automatic water filling kettle are arranged in a non-contact manner. The water temperature detection device is an infrared temperature sensor.

8. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The refrigeration appliance further comprises a water quantity detection device and a display device, wherein the water quantity detection device is used to detect the water quantity of the automatic water filling kettle, and the display device can display the water quantity of the automatic water filling kettle detected by the water quantity detection device.

9. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 8, characterized in that: The water level detection device includes a first liquid level sensor, a second liquid level sensor, and a third liquid level sensor. The height of the first liquid level sensor is located at the upper part of the automatic water filling kettle, and the first liquid level sensor is located below the water filling port of the automatic water filling kettle. The water filling port and the first water outlet cooperate with each other. The height of the second liquid level sensor is located in the middle part of the automatic water filling kettle, and the height of the third liquid level sensor is located at the lower part of the automatic water filling kettle. The water level detection device is arranged in the distribution chamber.

10. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that: The refrigeration appliance further includes a dispenser chamber door and a door lock, wherein the dispenser chamber door is used to open and close the dispenser chamber, and the door lock is arranged on the dispenser chamber door, and the door lock is used to lock the dispenser chamber door in a position to close the dispenser chamber, and the door lock is a push-type door lock. When the door lock is pressed, the door lock opens so that the dispenser chamber door can be opened. The refrigeration appliance further includes a pressure detection device, and the pressure detection device and the door lock are arranged in cooperation. The pressure detection device is used to detect whether the door lock is pressed, so that the refrigeration appliance can control the opening and closing of the first water outlet according to the signal output by the pressure detection device.

11. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 10, characterized in that: A bracket is arranged in the dispenser chamber, and the bracket extends along the height direction of the automatic water filling kettle. The bracket and the side wall of the automatic water filling kettle are arranged in coordination. The first liquid level sensor, the second liquid level sensor, and the third liquid level sensor are all arranged on the bracket, and the bracket and the first water tray are arranged in an integrated manner.

12. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water storage detection device is composed of two liquid level sensors, one of which is arranged on the side wall of the first water storage tank, and the other is arranged on the side wall of the second water storage tank. The water storage detection device adopts a waterproof sensor.

13. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that: The refrigeration appliance includes a box body, a cold storage chamber arranged in the box body, and a door body for opening and closing the cold storage chamber, the door body is provided with the dispenser chamber and the ice-making chamber, the ice-making chamber is placed above the dispenser chamber, the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber are both open to the outside, an ice-guiding channel is provided between the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber, the ice-guiding channel includes an ice outlet arranged in the dispenser chamber, the door body is provided with an ice-making chamber door for opening and closing the ice-making chamber, the door body is also provided with a dispenser chamber door capable of opening and closing the dispenser chamber, the dispenser chamber door is provided outside the ice-making chamber door, and the dispenser chamber door covers the ice-making chamber and the dispenser chamber at the same time.

14. A control method for a refrigeration appliance, characterized in that: The refrigeration appliance as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control method comprises: Acquire a water storage signal indicating that water is stored in the first water tray; The first water outlet is controlled to be closed or kept closed according to the acquired water storage signal, and a signal for cleaning the water stored in the first water tray and the second water tray is output.

Citation Information

Cited By

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