Ice maker and refrigeration equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses an ice maker and refrigeration equipment with the ice maker, and relates to the technical field of refrigeration, the ice maker comprises an ice making assembly, an ice storage box and a cover body, the cover body is of an integrated structure, the cover body is provided with a first installation position and a second installation position, the ice making assembly is installed at the first installation position, the ice storage box is installed at the second installation position, and the ice storage box is installed at the second installation position. The cover body is provided with a first assembly port communicated with the first installation position and a second assembly port communicated with the second installation position, and the first assembly port and the second assembly port are located on the two opposite sides of the cover body respectively. The cover body is of an integrated structure, the multi-point connection problem of a split type structure is avoided through the integrated design, the possibility of assembly errors and dislocation is reduced, and accurate butt joint between the ice making assembly and the ice storage box is ensured. Due to the integrated structure, connecting points are reduced, the overall rigidity is improved, the problem of looseness or deformation after long-term use is effectively avoided, and the overall service life is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of refrigeration, in particular to an ice maker and refrigeration equipment. Background Art

[0002] In the traditional design of ice machines, the cover usually adopts a split structure, that is, the ice-making component and the ice storage box are installed on different modules or frames. Since the assembly accuracy of the split structure depends on manual assembly, it is easy to produce installation errors, resulting in inaccurate alignment between components, which in turn affects the overall stability and sealing. Sometimes, the ice storage box and the ice-making component are even misaligned, which not only reduces the ice-making efficiency, but also may cause the risk of ice contamination. In addition, the split design requires delicate operation every time it is disassembled or adjusted, which is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also places high demands on the user's operating skills, greatly affecting the user experience and the convenience of daily maintenance. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention provides an ice maker, which adopts an integrated cover structure, integrates the ice making assembly and the ice storage box in the same frame, reduces assembly errors through optimized design, simplifies the operation process, and improves the overall performance and reliability of the device.

[0004] The present invention also provides a refrigeration device having the ice maker.

[0005] An ice maker according to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention comprises an ice-making assembly, an ice storage box and a cover body, wherein the cover body is an integrated structure, the cover body is provided with a first mounting position and a second mounting position, the ice-making assembly is installed at the first mounting position, the ice storage box is installed at the second mounting position, the cover body is provided with a first assembly port connected to the first mounting position and a second assembly port connected to the second mounting position, and the first assembly port and the second assembly port are respectively located on opposite sides of the cover body.

[0006] The ice maker according to the embodiment of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: the cover body is an integrated structure, and the integrated design avoids the multi-point connection problem of the split structure, reduces the possibility of assembly error and misalignment, and ensures the precise docking between the ice making assembly and the ice storage box. The integrated structure reduces the connection points, improves the overall rigidity, effectively avoids the problem of looseness or deformation after long-term use, and prolongs the overall service life.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a covering portion is provided on the top of the cover body, the covering portion is located above the ice-making assembly and can cover the ice-making assembly, and the covering portion is provided with air holes.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cover body is provided with a hanging portion and a connecting hole, the hanging portion and the connecting hole are spaced apart in the up-down direction, and the connecting hole is used for a connecting piece to pass through so as to fix the cover body.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cover body is provided with a support plate, the support plate is located at the bottom of the second installation position, the cover body is provided with a detection device for detecting the position of the ice storage box, and the detection device is configured to send a trigger signal when the ice storage box is separated from the second installation position.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cover body is provided with a guide structure, the ice storage box is provided with a guide member moving along the guide structure, a rotating structure is provided between the cover body and the ice storage box, and the ice storage box rotates around the rotating structure to achieve flipping of the ice storage box relative to the cover body.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, an opening is provided on the top of the ice storage box, and a storage space connected to the opening is provided, the guide structure includes a first guide section and a second guide section, when the guide member is located in the first guide section, the cover body can cover the opening, and the ice storage box is subject to resistance that limits the guide member from entering the second guide section along the first guide section; the guide structure is provided with a hovering position, and the hovering position is located at an end of the second guide section away from the first guide section, when the guide member is located in the hovering position, the ice storage box can remain stationary and expose the opening; the guide member moves in a direction away from the first guide section, and the ice storage box can detach from the guide structure and be taken out of the cover body.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second guide segment is arc-shaped, and the first guide segment is located at the lower side of the arc-shaped extension line of the second guide segment.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating structure includes a rotating part provided on the ice storage box and a supporting part provided on the cover body, the supporting part includes a first supporting position and a second supporting position, when the guide member is located in the first guide section, the rotating part abuts against the first supporting position, and when the guide member is located in the second guide section, the rotating part abuts against the second supporting position.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the guide structure and the support portion are both guide groove structures, the guide structure is provided with a first opening, the guide member enters and exits the guide structure through the first opening, and the support portion is provided with a second opening, the rotating portion enters and exits the support portion through the second opening.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first opening is located on the upper side of the arc-shaped extension line of the second guide segment, the guide structure includes a third guide segment, the third guide segment is connected to the second guide segment and extends toward the first opening, and the hovering position is located at the connection between the third guide segment and the second guide segment.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the guide structure includes an auxiliary segment, the auxiliary segment is located outside the hovering position, and both ends of the auxiliary segment are connected to the second guide segment, and a cavity is formed between the auxiliary segment and the second guide segment.

[0017] A refrigeration device according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes an ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] The refrigeration device according to the embodiment of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: by adopting the ice-making machine of the first aspect of the present invention, the precise docking between the ice-making assembly and the ice storage box is ensured, the overall rigidity is improved, the loosening or deformation problem after long-term use is effectively avoided, and the service life of the refrigeration device is extended.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and in part will be obvious from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a refrigeration device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an ice making machine is shown; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing an ice storage box of an ice maker in a closed state; Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing an ice storage box of an ice maker in an open state; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an ice maker in a closed state using a guide structure of an embodiment; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing an ice maker in an open state; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an ice maker in a closed state using a guide structure of another embodiment; Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing an ice maker in an open state; Fig. 9 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a viewing angle of the cover is shown; Fig.10 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another viewing angle of the cover is shown; Fig.11 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another viewing angle of the cover is shown.

[0021] Reference numerals: 100, door body; 201, cover body; 202, first installation position; 203, second installation position; 204, first assembly opening; 205, second assembly opening; 206, hanging part; 207, connecting hole; 208, first guide section; 209, second guide section; 210, suspension position; 211, elastic part; 212, rotation axis; 213, first slide rail; 214, second slide rail; 215, guide part; 216, first opening; 217, limit part; 218, reinforcing rib; 219, hollow 220, support plate; 222, first support position; 223, second support position; 224, second opening; 225, third guide section; 226, auxiliary section; 227, cavity; 228, cover; 229, air vent; 230, guide structure; 301, ice storage box; 302, opening; 303, storage space; 304, recess; 305, guide member; 306, rotating part; 401, water channel assembly; 402, wiring harness assembly; 403, ice making assembly; 404, fixing knob. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0023] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that descriptions involving orientations, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., and orientations or positional relationships indicated are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0024] In the description of the present invention, "several" means one or more, "more" means more than two, "greater than", "less than", "exceed" etc. are understood as not including the number itself, and "above", "below", "within" etc. are understood as including the number itself. If there is a description of "first" or "second", it is only used for the purpose of distinguishing the technical features, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying the relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0025] In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise clearly defined, terms such as setting, installing, connecting, etc. should be understood in a broad sense, and technicians in the relevant technical field can reasonably determine the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific content of the technical solution.

[0026] Reference Figure 1 As shown, it can be understood that the first embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigeration device, including a box body, a door body 100 and an ice maker. The door body 100 is rotatably connected to the box body through a hinge or a rotating shaft to realize the opening and closing function of the door body 100. The ice maker includes a cover body 201 and an ice storage box 301, and the cover body 201 is fixed to the door body 100 to support and guide the ice storage box 301. Figure 4 As shown, the top of the ice storage box 301 is provided with an opening 302 for easy access to items, and the inside thereof is provided with a storage space 303 connected to the opening 302. Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the cover body 201 is provided with a guide structure 230, referring to Figure 5 As shown, the ice storage box 301 is provided with a guide member 305 that moves along the guide structure 230 .

[0027] Reference Figure 3 As shown, it can be understood that the ice storage box 301 has a closed state, at which the opening 302 of the ice storage box 301 is covered by the cover body 201, forming a relatively closed space. This closed state brings many benefits. On the one hand, it can effectively prevent the items in the ice storage box 301 from accidentally falling. On the other hand, it can prevent external items from falling into the ice storage box 301 through the opening 302, keeping the ice storage box 301 clean and the items hygienic.

[0028] Reference Figure 4 As shown, it can be understood that the ice storage box 301 has an open state, at which the opening 302 of the ice storage box 301 moves out of the coverage of the cover body 201, so that the user can take out the items in the ice storage box 301 from the opening 302, and can also put the items into the ice storage box 301 from the opening 302.

[0029] It should be noted that the refrigeration equipment may be a wine cabinet, a medicine cabinet, a display cabinet or a refrigerator, etc.

[0030] In order to more clearly illustrate the solution of the embodiment of the present invention, the following description is made by taking a refrigerator as an example of the refrigeration device.

[0031] Reference Figure 3 As shown, it can be understood that the ice maker further includes a water circuit assembly 401, a wiring harness assembly 402, an ice making assembly 403, a fixing knob 404, and the like.

[0032] Among them, the ice-making component 403 is the core part of the ice-making machine, which is responsible for making ice cubes from water. It usually includes an ice-making mold, which has a specific shape and structure and can shape the injected water into the desired ice cube shape. The refrigeration system of the refrigerator cools the water in the ice-making mold to below the freezing point through a refrigeration cycle, so that it solidifies into ice. The ice-making mold has multiple ice-making grooves. When ice making is completed, ice cubes are formed in each ice-making groove. By turning the ice-making mold so that the ice-making grooves face downward, the ice cubes fall freely into the ice storage box and are stored.

[0033] The water circuit assembly 401 is a key part responsible for water supply in the ice maker, and is mainly composed of a water pipe, a spring, a water pipe fixing part, a water injection aluminum pipe and an embedded part. The water pipe is used as a channel for water transmission to transport water from the water source to the inside of the ice maker. Its material usually has a certain flexibility and corrosion resistance to ensure the smooth flow of water and long-term use. The spring mainly plays a role in preventing the water pipe from bending. During the operation of the refrigerator, the water pipe may be bent due to factors such as the opening and closing of the door body 100 and the vibration of the components, affecting the water supply. The presence of the spring can effectively avoid this situation and ensure the smooth flow of the water circuit. The water pipe fixing part is used to fix the position of the water pipe to prevent the water pipe from shifting or shaking during operation, and ensure that the water can be accurately transported to the designated position. The water injection aluminum pipe introduces water into the ice making assembly 403 for ice making operation. The aluminum pipe has good thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance, and can efficiently inject water into the ice making groove of the ice making mold. The embedded parts are pre-installed at the corresponding positions to fix and support other parts of the water circuit assembly 401 and ensure the stability of the entire water circuit system. Water is transmitted from the top of the refrigerator body, passes through the hinge hole of the hinge on the door body 100, and enters the ice maker on the door for water supply. This design makes full use of the existing structure of the refrigerator, reduces additional space occupation and pipeline laying, and improves space utilization and water supply efficiency.

[0034] The wiring harness assembly 402 is a key component for connecting the ice-making assembly 403 with a power source or other control unit. The wiring harness assembly 402 is a collection of multiple wires or cables, which are used to transmit power or signals and connect various electrical components of the ice-making assembly 403.

[0035] The fixing knob 404 plays a role of connection and fixing during the installation process of the ice maker. Figure 2The fixing knobs 404 in the illustrated embodiment are divided into two groups, one group of fixing knobs 404 is used to firmly fix the ice-making assembly 403 on the door body 100, ensuring that the ice-making assembly 403 does not shake or shift during operation, thereby ensuring the stability of the ice-making effect. The other group of fixing knobs 404 is used to fix the cover body 201 on the door body 100, so that the cover body 201 and the door body 100 are tightly combined to provide stable support for other components of the ice-making machine.

[0036] Reference Figures 9 to 11 As shown, it can be understood that the cover body 201 is provided with a first mounting position 202 and a second mounting position 203, the ice-making assembly 403 is installed at the first mounting position 202, and the ice storage box 301 is installed at the second mounting position 203. By providing two independent mounting positions on the cover body 201, which are used to install the ice-making assembly 403 and the ice storage box 301 respectively, the optimization of functional zoning and operational convenience is achieved.

[0037] Reference Figures 9 to 11 As shown, it can be understood that the top of the cover body 201 is provided with a cover portion 228, and the cover portion 228 is located directly above the ice-making assembly 403, and can completely cover the ice-making assembly 403. This design provides effective protection for the ice-making assembly 403, and can prevent dust, debris, etc. from falling into the ice-making assembly 403, so as to avoid affecting the normal operation and ice-making quality of the ice-making assembly 403. The cover portion 228 is provided with a communicating vent hole 229, and the vent hole 229 can ensure the circulation of air around the ice-making assembly 403, and can effectively guide the cold wind to blow into the ice-making assembly 403. Exemplarily, the cover portion 228 can be set in a grid shape.

[0038] It is understandable that the cover body 201 adopts an integrated structure, which reduces the connection points and potential failure points during assembly. The integrated structure improves the overall strength and stability of the cover body 201, reduces problems caused by loose or damaged connection points, and extends the service life of the device.

[0039] Reference Figures 9 to 11 As shown, it can be understood that the cover body 201 is provided with a first assembly opening 204 and a second assembly opening 205. The first assembly opening 204 is located on one side of the cover body 201 and is used to install the ice making assembly 403 to the first installation position 202. The second assembly opening 205 is located on the other side of the cover body 201 and is used to install the ice storage box 301 to the second installation position 203.

[0040] It is understandable that the ice-making assembly 403 is fixed on the door body 100, the cover body 201 does not contact the ice-making assembly 403, and after the cover body 201 is installed on the door body 100, the first installation position 202 accommodates the ice-making assembly 403, and the cover body 201 protects the ice-making assembly 403. The ice storage box 301 is then installed in the second installation position 203 through the guide structure 230, and the cover body 201 supports and protects the ice storage box 301.

[0041] During installation, the ice-making assembly 403 is first installed on the door body 100, and then the cover body 201 is installed on the door body 100. The first assembly opening 204 can avoid the ice-making assembly 403, and allow the ice-making assembly 403 to enter the first installation position 202, and the ice storage box 301 is installed in the second installation position 203 through the second assembly opening 205. During disassembly, the ice storage box 301 is first moved along the guide structure 230 so that the ice storage box 301 is taken out from the second assembly opening 205. Then the cover body 201 can be removed separately as a whole. Since the ice-making assembly 403 is connected to the inside of the box through the water channel assembly 401 and the wiring harness assembly 402, it is not convenient to disassemble. In the process of disassembling the cover body 201, it is not necessary to disassemble the ice-making assembly 403, thereby improving the convenience of disassembly.

[0042] Reference Figures 9 to 11 As shown, it can be understood that the cover body 201 is provided with a hanging portion 206 and a connecting hole 207, and the hanging portion 206 and the connecting hole 207 are arranged at intervals in the up-down direction, and the connecting hole 207 is used for the connecting piece to penetrate so as to realize that the cover body 201 is fixed to the door body 100. The hanging portion 206 is arranged at the upper part of the cover body 201, and is used to preliminarily fix the cover body 201 on the door body 100. By using the hanging portion 206, the use of screws can be reduced. The cover body 201 is preliminarily positioned during the assembly process, reducing the difficulty of alignment during assembly and improving assembly efficiency. The hanging portion 206 can be designed as an upper hanging ear and a lower hanging ear, and the upper hanging ear and the lower hanging ear are arranged at intervals in the up-down direction to form a stable hanging structure. The connecting hole 207 is arranged at the lower part of the cover body 201, and is used to firmly fix the cover body 201 on the door body 100 through a connecting piece (such as a screw). The design of the connection hole 207 ensures that the cover 201 is firmly fixed on the door body 100 to prevent the cover 201 from loosening due to vibration when the door body 100 is opened or closed or when the device is running. The connection hole 207 is usually designed as a screw hole, allowing a screw to penetrate from the bottom and be fixed on the door body 100.

[0043] Taking the assembly with the door body 100 as an example, the cover body 201 is assembled from top to bottom and hung on the door body 100 using the hanging part 206 on the cover body 201 to achieve preliminary positioning. This hanging method can keep the cover body 201 in a relatively stable position on the door body 100, which is convenient for subsequent fixing operations. Afterwards, screws are driven in from the connection holes 207 at the bottom to tightly connect the cover body 201 to the door body 100, completing the final fixing.

[0044] It should be noted that the first mounting position 202 is used to provide an installation space for the ice-making assembly 403. The ice-making assembly 403 can be directly mounted on the cover body 201, or directly fixed to the door body 100 via other connectors (such as a fixing knob 404) instead of being directly connected to the cover body 201.

[0045] It is understandable that the guide structure 230 includes a first guide section 208 and a second guide section 209. When the guide member 305 is located at the first guide section 208, the cover 201 can cover the opening 302 of the ice storage box 301, ensuring that the ice storage box 301 is in a closed position. Figure 3 When the guide member 305 moves along the guide structure 230 to the second guide section 209, the ice storage box 301 gradually opens to reveal the opening 302, which is convenient for storing and taking out items.

[0046] The guide structure 230 is further provided with a suspension position 210, which is located at an end of the second guide section 209 away from the first guide section 208. When the guide member 305 moves to the suspension position 210, the ice storage box 301 can remain stationary and ensure that the ice storage box 301 is in a Figure 4 The open state shown is convenient for users to store and access items in small quantities.

[0047] It should be noted that when the guide member 305 continues to move in the direction away from the first guide section 208, the ice storage box 301 can be completely separated from the guide structure 230 and removed from the cover body 201, which is convenient for storing and retrieving a large number of items or cleaning and maintenance.

[0048] When the user needs to take or place items, the door 100 is opened first, and then the ice storage box 301 is pushed so that the first guide section 208 of the guide member 305 enters the second guide section 209. When the guide member 305 reaches the hovering position 210, the ice storage box 301 automatically hovers, and the user can conveniently take or place items. If the ice storage box 301 needs to be completely removed, the ice storage box 301 is pushed further so that the guide member 305 moves in a direction away from the first guide section 208 until the ice storage box 301 is separated from the guide structure 230 and removed from the cover body 201.

[0049] When closing the ice storage box 301, align the ice storage box 301 with the guide structure 230 of the cover body 201, and gently push the ice storage box 301 so that the guide member 305 enters the first guide section 208 along the second guide section 209. At this time, the cover body 201 covers the opening 302, and the ice storage box 301 is in a closed state.

[0050] The refrigeration device of the present invention, through the design of the guide structure 230 and the suspended position 210, allows the user to choose a small amount of access (suspended position 210) or a large amount of access (complete removal) according to the needs, to meet different usage scenarios. Through the two modes of suspended position 210 and complete removal, the multifunctional use of the ice storage box 301 is realized, and the user experience is improved.

[0051] It is understandable that a rotating structure is provided between the cover body 201 and the ice storage box 301, and the ice storage box 301 can rotate around the rotating structure to achieve the flipping of the ice storage box 301 relative to the cover body 201. The rotating structure can be a rotating shaft, a hinge or other mechanical structure that can achieve a rotating connection. Through the rotating structure, the ice storage box 301 can be flipped under the guidance of the guide structure 230. When the guide member 305 moves to the second guide section 209, the ice storage box 301 flips around the rotating structure so that the opening 302 faces the user, which is convenient for storing and retrieving items. During the flipping process, the center of gravity of the ice storage box 301 is always kept within a stable range to avoid tilting of the container or spilling of items due to flipping.

[0052] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, it can be understood that the first guide section 208 includes an elastic portion 211, and the elastic portion 211 is in a crimping relationship with the guide member 305. The elastic portion 211 can be made of a variety of elastic materials, and common ones include spring sheets, rubber elastic blocks, etc. The spring sheet is generally made of metal material, has good elasticity and certain toughness, and can maintain stable performance during repeated compression and rebound; the rubber elastic block is usually made of synthetic rubber material, and its elasticity can be achieved by adjusting the formula and hardness of the rubber according to specific needs.

[0053] In the first guide section 208 of the guide structure 230, the elastic part 211 is designed to be pressed against the guide member 305. When the guide member 305 attempts to move from the first guide section 208 to the second guide section 209, the elastic part 211 generates an elastic force in the opposite direction to the moving direction of the guide member 305, thereby forming a resistance.

[0054] Taking the spring sheet as an example, the existence of the guide member 305 will compress the spring sheet, and the spring sheet will generate an elastic force opposite to the deformation direction. This elastic force will directly act on the guide member 305, forming a resistance that hinders the guide member 305 from moving toward the second guide section 209.

[0055] Similarly, when the rubber elastic block is squeezed by the guide member 305, the internal rubber molecular structure changes, generating an elastic force to restore the original state. This elastic force prevents the guide member 305 from moving further, stabilizing it in the first guide section 208. The existence of this elastic force enables the guide member 305 to be firmly in the first guide section 208 without external force intervention, ensuring that the ice storage box 301 is in a closed state, and preventing the ice storage box 301 from accidentally opening due to accidental vibration or slight external force.

[0056] When the user needs to make the guide member 305 enter the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208, an external force greater than the elastic force needs to be applied. When this force is greater than the elastic force applied by the elastic portion 211 on the guide member 305, the guide member 305 can start to move.

[0057] During the movement, the elastic part 211 will further deform as the guide member 305 moves, and the elastic force will also change accordingly. If it is a spring sheet, as the guide member 305 moves, the compression of the spring sheet may increase, and the elastic force will also increase accordingly, which requires the user to continue to apply sufficient force to overcome the constantly changing elastic force. When the guide member 305 moves, the stress distribution inside the rubber elastic block will change, and the elastic force will also be adjusted, but in general, the external force applied by the user needs to be always greater than the elastic force so that the guide member 305 can smoothly enter the second guide section 209.

[0058] The advantages of elastic force are: first, the magnitude of the elastic force can be precisely controlled by accurately designing the material, shape and size of the elastic part 211. For example, by selecting spring sheets with different stiffness coefficients, or adjusting the hardness and shape of the rubber elastic block, elastic forces of different sizes can be obtained to meet different usage requirements. Secondly, the stability of the elastic force is higher. The elastic force is only related to the deformation of the elastic part 211. As long as the performance of the elastic part 211 is stable, the resistance generated by it can remain relatively stable, thereby better preventing the accidental opening of the ice storage box 301. Finally, the response of the elastic force is more sensitive. When the guide member 305 has a slight tendency to move, the elastic part 211 can quickly generate a corresponding elastic force to prevent it from moving. The elastic force can limit the movement of the guide member 305 more timely, thereby improving the safety and stability of the refrigeration equipment.

[0059] In the use scenario of a refrigerator, the door opening and closing operation is one of the most frequent actions of a user interacting with the device. For a refrigerator door with an ice maker, elastic force plays an important role in the door opening and closing process, ensuring the stability of the ice storage box 301 and the user experience.

[0060] Specifically, when the refrigerator door is opened or closed, the door body 100 will vibrate and shake to a certain extent. If there is no elastic force, under the influence of these vibrations and shakes, the guide member 305 of the ice storage box 301 may accidentally enter the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208 due to external force, causing the ice storage box 301 to open, and the items stored inside (such as ice cubes, etc.) may fall out, causing unnecessary losses and troubles. The elastic force generated by the elastic part 211 pressing on the guide member 305 can effectively prevent the movement of the guide member 305 at the moment of opening and closing the refrigerator door. When the vibration of the door body 100 is transmitted to the ice storage box 301, the guide member 305 will be subjected to an external force, but due to the existence of the elastic force, the guide member 305 will only move when the external force is greater than the elastic force. Under the normal vibration of the refrigerator door opening and closing, this external force is usually not enough to overcome the elastic force, thereby ensuring that the ice storage box 301 always remains in a closed state during the door opening and closing process, ensuring the safety of the items inside. Frequent opening and closing of the refrigerator door may cause the ice storage box 301 to be subjected to multiple impacts and vibrations, and the elastic force plays a buffering and protective role in this process. The elastic deformation of the elastic part 211 can absorb part of the impact energy and reduce the hard collision between the guide member 305 and the guide structure 230. By reducing hard friction and impact, the elastic force not only protects the guide member 305 and the guide structure 230, but also extends the overall service life of the ice maker.

[0061] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, it can be understood that the rotating structure includes a recess 304 provided on the ice storage box 301 and a rotating shaft 212 provided on the cover body 201. The recess 304 abuts against the rotating shaft 212 to form a rotating fulcrum, so that the ice storage box 301 can be turned around the rotating shaft 212. The recess 304 abuts against the rotating shaft 212, so that the ice storage box 301 can be rotated around the rotating shaft 212. The notch of the recess 304 faces downward, and the maximum width of the notch is greater than the diameter of the rotating shaft 212. The notch of the recess 304 faces downward, which is convenient for the installation and removal of the ice storage box 301. When installing or removing the ice storage box 301, the user only needs to align the recess 304 with the rotating shaft 212. Through the design of the notch, the assembly or disassembly can be easily completed. This design simplifies user operation, reduces the complexity of installation and maintenance, and improves user experience.

[0062] Specifically, when installing the ice storage box 301, the user can easily align the recess 304 on the ice storage box 301 with the rotating shaft 212 of the cover body 201. Since the notch is facing downward, the rotating shaft 212 can smoothly enter the recess 304 to complete the installation process. When removing the ice storage box 301, because the notch is facing downward, the user can easily separate the recess 304 from the rotating shaft 212, and then remove the ice storage box 301 from the cover body 201. While ensuring that the ice storage box 301 is firmly installed, it is also convenient for the user to disassemble and clean it. For example, when the ice storage box 301 needs to be cleaned, the user can first overcome the elastic force to separate the guide member 305 from the first guide section 208, and then use the structural characteristics of the recess 304 and the rotating shaft 212 to easily remove the ice storage box 301 for cleaning, and then reinstall it conveniently after cleaning.

[0063] In addition, the rotating structure ensures the stability of the ice storage box 301 during the flipping process through the close cooperation between the recess 304 and the rotating shaft 212. Even if vibration or inertial force is generated when the refrigerator door is opened and closed, the ice storage box 301 can remain stable and avoid accidental shaking or falling off. The design of the rotating shaft 212 ensures that the center of gravity of the ice storage box 301 is always kept within a reasonable range when flipping, preventing the container from tilting or items from spilling.

[0064] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, it can be understood that the guide structure 230 includes a first slide rail 213 and a second slide rail 214. The first slide rail 213 is located on the upper side of the guide member 305, and is used to limit the up and down movement range of the guide member 305, and provide support and guidance for the upper part. The second slide rail 214 is located on the lower side of the guide member 305, and is used to limit the up and down movement range of the guide member 305, and provide support and guidance for the lower part. The first guide section 208 and the second guide section 209 are defined between the first slide rail 213 and the second slide rail 214, which are respectively used to guide the movement of the guide member 305 in different states. This layout allows the guide member 305 to be constrained on both the upper and lower sides during movement, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the movement, and avoiding the guide member 305 from deflecting or shaking during movement.

[0065] It is understandable that an elastic part 211 (such as a spring sheet, a rubber strip, etc.) can be provided on the first slide rail 213 or the second slide rail 214. When the guide member 305 is located in the first guide section 208, the elastic part 211 is pressed against the guide member 305 to generate an elastic force. The elastic force prevents the guide member 305 from entering the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208, ensuring that the ice storage box 301 remains in a closed state under normal circumstances. For example, when the refrigerator door switch generates vibration, the elastic force can offset the impact of the vibration, so that the guide member 305 is stabilized in the first guide section 208, and the ice storage box 301 is prevented from being accidentally opened.

[0066] The upper end of the second slide rail 214 is provided with a guide portion 215 that is inclined upward, and a first opening 216 is formed between the guide portion 215 and the first slide rail 213. The guide member 305 enters and exits the guide structure 230 through the first opening 216 to achieve installation and removal of the ice storage box 301. When the user wants to open the ice storage box 301, the elastic force needs to be overcome so that the guide member 305 enters the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208. The guide member 305 moves along the guide portion 215 of the second slide rail 214 and finally reaches the hovering position 210, which is located at the connection between the guide portion 215 and the second guide section 209.

[0067] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, it can be understood that the ice storage box 301 is provided with a limiting portion 217. When the guide member 305 is located at the suspended position 210, the lower portion of the limiting portion 217 abuts against the guide member 215. The existence of the limiting portion 217 further enhances the stability of the ice storage box 301 at the suspended position 210, preventing the ice storage box 301 from shaking or accidentally moving at this position. At the same time, the cooperation between the limiting portion 217 and the guide member 215 also plays a certain limiting role in the movement of the guide member 305, ensuring that the guide member 305 can accurately stay at the suspended position 210. In the process of the guide member 305 moving from the first guide section 208 to the second guide section 209, the limiting portion 217 is located above the first slide rail 213, achieving the effect of avoidance. When the guide member 305 approaches the suspended position 210, the limiting portion 217 passes over the first slide rail 213 and abuts against the guide member 215, thereby fixing the ice storage box 301. When the guide member 305 continues to move upward and passes through the first opening 216 , the position of the limiting portion 217 can also avoid the guide member 305 , so that the ice storage box 301 can be taken out of the cover body 201 .

[0068] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, it can be understood that the wall thickness of the guide structure 230 at the second guide section 209 is greater than the wall thickness at the first guide section 208. At the second guide section 209, the wall thickness of the guide structure 230 is larger. This design enhances the strength and rigidity of this area, ensuring the stability when the ice storage box 301 is opened and fixed. The second guide section 209 is a key area for opening and fixing the ice storage box 301. The larger wall thickness design improves the compression and deformation resistance of this area, ensuring the stability of the ice storage box 301 in the open state. At the first guide section 208, the wall thickness of the guide structure 230 is thinner. This design allows the first guide section 208 to have a certain elasticity, which can better adapt to the movement and force changes of the guide member 305. The thinner wall thickness design of the first guide section 208 makes it have a certain elasticity, which can better absorb and buffer the impact force generated when the guide member 305 moves, reduce wear and noise, and extend the service life. The cover body 201 is hollowed out in the area corresponding to the first guide section 208 to better increase the elasticity of the first guide section 208, that is, the first guide section 208 itself constitutes the elastic part 211, and no other structure is required to be added. The elastic force of the first guide section 208 requires the guide member 305 to overcome a certain resistance when entering the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208, thereby improving the safety and stability of use.

[0069] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, it can be understood that the way to increase the wall thickness at the second guide section 209 is through the hollow structure combined with the reinforcing ribs 218. For example, at the second guide section 209 of the second slide rail 214, a hollow portion 219 is provided, and reinforcing ribs 218 connecting the two sides are provided in the hollow portion 219. Such a design can save materials on the one hand, and on the other hand, it can change the stress distribution at the connection between the first guide section 208 and the second guide section 209, reduce stress concentration, and extend the service life of the overall structure.

[0070] Reference Fig. 9 As shown, it can be understood that the cover body 201 is provided with a support plate 220, and the support plate 220 is located at the bottom of the second installation position 203. The primary function of the support plate 220 is to bear the gravity of the ice storage box 301. When the ice storage box 301 is installed in the second installation position 203, its own weight and the weight of the items stored inside (such as ice cubes, etc.) will generate a downward force. The support plate 220 can effectively bear these gravity through reasonable structural design and material selection, and disperse it to the cover body 201 and the door body 100. In this way, a part of the gravity of the ice storage box 301 originally borne by the first guide section 208 is transferred to the support plate 220, which greatly reduces the force on the first guide section 208.

[0071] For the first guide section 208, due to its own structural characteristics (for example, in some designs, the first guide section 208 forms an elastic section), being subjected to excessive gravity may affect its elastic performance and service life. Through the function of the support plate 220, the first guide section 208 can work within a more suitable force range, reducing the risk of damage caused by excessive gravity load, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the first guide section 208 in guiding the movement of the ice storage box 301. For example, in the process of frequently taking and placing the ice storage box 301, if there is no support from the support plate 220, the first guide section 208 may be deformed or its elasticity weakened due to being subjected to large gravity for a long time, thereby affecting the normal movement and closing of the ice storage box 301.

[0072] Since the support plate 220 bears most of the gravity of the ice storage box 301, the friction between the guide member 305 and the guide structure 230 is reduced accordingly during the process of taking and placing the ice storage box 301. When the user takes and places the ice storage box 301, there is no need to overcome the excessive friction caused by gravity, and the operation is easier and smoother.

[0073] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it can be understood that in another embodiment, the second guide section 209 is designed to be arc-shaped, so that the ice storage box 301 can smoothly transition during the movement process, reducing friction and resistance. The first guide section 208 is located at the lower side of the arc extension line O of the second guide section 209, and the position is lower. The ice storage box 301 needs to overcome gravity when entering the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208. The arc design of the second guide section 209 changes the traditional straight-line entry and exit method, so that the ice storage box 301 can transition more naturally during the movement, especially when moving from a low position to a high position. The arc path allows the ice storage box 301 to rise slowly, and the user can apply force more gently when lifting and pulling, and the experience is smoother. By placing the first guide section 208 at the lower side of the arc extension line O of the second guide section 209, the design utilizes the effect of gravity, so that the ice storage box 301 naturally slides down to the correct position when it is put in, and when it is taken out, the user needs to overcome a certain gravity upward, but the arc design helps reduce the required pulling force. Furthermore, since the first guide section 208 is located at the lower side of the second guide section 209 , the ice storage box 301 needs to overcome gravity when entering the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208 , thereby forming a natural resistance to prevent the ice storage box 301 from accidentally opening.

[0074] When the user takes ice, in order to make the guide member 305 enter the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208, the user only needs to slightly lift the ice storage box 301 upwards. Since the gravity of the ice storage box 301 itself originally forms resistance to entering the second guide section 209, the upward slightly lifting action can overcome this gravity resistance, so that the guide member 305 can move along the arc-shaped second guide section 209.

[0075] It is understandable that if an elastic force is used as a resistance to limit entry from the first guide section 208 into the second guide section 209, when the guide member 305 contacts the elastic portion 211, the force applied by the user to the ice storage box 301 needs to overcome the elastic force. When the guide member 305 passes over the elastic portion 211, the force applied by the user to the ice storage box 301 is difficult to decrease accordingly as the elastic force decreases. That is, under the force applied by the user to the ice storage box 301, the guide member 305 has an acceleration moving along the second guide section 209, and the ice storage box 301 flips faster. If the ice storage box 301 is full of objects such as ice cubes, these objects are easily thrown out from the opening 302 due to inertia.

[0076] It is understandable that, in this embodiment, gravity is used as the resistance to limit the entry from the first guide section 208 into the second guide section 209, and gravity will not suddenly decrease or disappear like elastic force, and the force applied by the user to the ice storage box 301 and gravity can maintain a relative balance, and there is no entity blocking the guide member 305 in the moving path from the first guide section 208 to the second guide section 209, so that the ice storage box 301 can maintain smoothness and continuity during the entire movement process. In addition, since there is no entity blocking the moving path of the guide member 305, severe wear of the structure caused by long-term use is avoided, and the risk of mechanism failure is reduced.

[0077] It is understandable that the distance between the two ends of the first guide section 208 in the vertical direction is h, which satisfies: h ≥ 3mm, so that the ice storage box 301 will move only when the user applies sufficient external force to overcome gravity, thereby ensuring the stability of the ice storage box 301 in the closed state. When h < 3mm, if the instantaneous speed of the door body 100 when opening and closing the door is too fast, or the door body 100 is subjected to a large impact force, the ice storage box 301 is easy to break away from the first guide section 208 and enter the second guide section 209, causing the ice storage box 301 to flip open the opening 302, affecting normal ice making, and may also cause the items in the ice storage box 301 to fall.

[0078] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, it can be understood that in another embodiment, the rotating structure includes a rotating part 306 provided on the ice storage box 301 and a supporting part provided on the cover body 201, and the supporting part includes a first supporting position 222 and a second supporting position 223. When the guide member 305 is located in the first guide section 208, the rotating part 306 abuts against the first supporting position 222. At this time, the abutment and cooperation between the rotating part 306 and the first supporting position 222 further enhances the stability of the ice storage box 301 in the closed state. On the one hand, it can prevent the ice storage box 301 from accidentally rotating due to factors such as vibration during normal use; on the other hand, it also provides additional protection for the stability of the guide member 305 in the first guide section 208.

[0079] When the guide member 305 is located at the second guide section 209, the rotating part 306 abuts against the second support position 223. In this state, the abutment between the rotating part 306 and the second support position 223 allows the ice storage box 301 to remain stable even in the open state (the guide member 305 is in the second guide section 209). At the same time, the user can rotate the ice storage box 301 as needed, and the rotating part 306 rotates around the contact point with the support part, so that the user can take the items located at different positions of the ice storage box 301. For example, when the items stored in the ice storage box 301 are at the bottom or inside, the user can rotate the ice storage box 301 to make it easier to take.

[0080] It is understandable that, since the second guide section 209 is designed to be arc-shaped, the cooperation between the rotating part 306 and the supporting part can ensure the stability of the rotation process of the ice storage box 301, and avoid shaking or deviation during rotation. However, in the process of taking out the items in the ice storage box 301, the user needs to lift the ice storage box 301 slightly upward by hand to overcome the gravity resistance, so that the guide member 305 enters the second guide section 209 from the first guide section 208, causing the position of the rotating part 306 to move upward for a distance, so that the contact position of the rotating part 306 and the supporting part will also change. By setting the first support position 222 and the second support position 223, in the process of the guide member 305 moving from the first guide section 208 to the second guide section 209, the rotating part 306 smoothly transitions between the two support positions, which allows the guide structure 230 and the rotating structure to work together, providing users with a more convenient operating experience.

[0081] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, it can be understood that the guide structure 230 and the support part both adopt a guide groove structure, which has a certain limiting and supporting function in addition to the guiding function. For example, when the ice storage box 301 rotates, the upper side wall of the guide structure 230 and the support part will have a limiting function to facilitate rotation. In the process of putting the ice storage box 301 back into the cover body 201, since the first guide section 208 is located on the lower side of the arc extension line O of the second guide section 209, the upper side wall of the guide structure 230 can guide the guide member 305 to move from the second guide section 209 to the first guide section 208, and the upper side wall of the support part can guide the rotating part 306 to fall into the first support position 222.

[0082] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it can be understood that the guide structure 230 is provided with a first opening 216, and the guide member 305 enters and exits the guide structure 230 through the first opening 216. The design of the first opening 216 enables the guide member 305 to flexibly enter and exit the guide structure 230, which simplifies the user operation and improves the convenience of use. The support portion is provided with a second opening 224, and the rotating portion 306 enters and exits the support portion through the second opening 224. The design of the second opening 224 enables the rotating portion 306 to flexibly enter and exit the support portion, which simplifies the installation and disassembly of the ice storage box 301 and improves the convenience of use. When the ice storage box 301 needs to be taken out, the guide member 305 moves from the second guide section 209 toward the first opening 216, and the rotating portion 306 moves from the second support position 223 toward the second opening 224, until the guide member 305 passes through the first opening 216 and the rotating portion 306 passes through the second opening 224, so as to realize the removal action of the ice storage box 301.

[0083] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it can be understood that the guide structure 230 includes a third guide segment 225, which is connected to the second guide segment 209 and extends toward the first opening 216, and is used to guide the guide member 305 to enter the suspended position 210 and finally detach from the guide structure 230. The first opening 216 is located on the upper side of the arc extension line O of the second guide segment 209, and the guide member 305 enters and exits the guide structure 230 through the first opening 216. The end of the second guide segment 209 close to the third guide segment 225 tends to extend horizontally or slightly downward, and the third guide segment 225 extends obliquely upward to the first opening 216, so that the connection between the third guide segment 225 and the second guide segment 209 forms a suspended position 210 that allows the ice storage box 301 to remain stationary. After the guide member 305 reaches the suspended position 210, the user continues to push the ice storage box 301, and the guide member 305 moves along the third guide section 225 and disengages from the guide structure 230 through the first opening 216. The ice storage box 301 can be taken out of the cover body 201 for easy access or cleaning and maintenance.

[0084] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it can be understood that the guide structure 230 includes an auxiliary section 226, which is located outside the hovering position 210 and is firmly connected to the second guide section 209 at both ends to form a continuous and stable support frame. When the guide member 305 passes through the hovering position 210, the auxiliary section 226 can provide additional guide support to improve the strength of the hovering position 210. The layout of the auxiliary section 226 helps to reduce the lateral vibration of the guide member 305 during movement, especially when passing through the hovering position 210, the lateral support of the auxiliary section 226 can quickly stabilize the guide member 305 and reduce the swing caused by speed changes.

[0085] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it can be understood that a cavity 227 is formed between the auxiliary section 226 and the second guide section 209. The existence of this cavity 227 has multiple functions. It not only plays a role in reducing the weight of the structure, but also provides a certain buffer space for the movement of the guide member 305, and can reduce stress concentration and improve stress distribution. The design of the cavity 227 allows the second guide section 209 to have a certain degree of freedom to deform downward in the area of ​​the hovering position 210, which is conducive to keeping the ice storage box 301 in the hovering position 210, and can also reduce the impact sound of the guide member 305 in the corresponding area of ​​the cavity 227. For example, the cavity 227 can be designed as a muffler.

[0086] It is understandable that the cover 201 is also provided with a detection device, which is arranged on the cover 201 and located near the second installation position 203, and is used to detect whether the ice storage box 301 is correctly installed in the second installation position 203. The detection device can monitor the position of the ice storage box 301 in real time, and send a trigger signal when the ice storage box is out of the second installation position 203, reminding the user or suspending the operation of the device. For example, the detection device can use a magnetic switch to determine whether the ice storage box 301 is in place by sensing the magnet on the ice storage box 301. When the ice storage box 301 is correctly installed in the second installation position 203, the magnetic switch senses the magnet on the ice storage box 301, and the device operates normally. If the user removes the ice storage box 301 and forgets to put it back, the magnetic switch cannot sense the magnet, and the device will send a trigger signal, such as suspending the operation of the ice making component 403 to prevent ice cubes from falling.

[0087] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes can be made within the knowledge scope of ordinary technicians in the relevant technical field without departing from the purpose of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ice machine, characterized in that: include: Ice making components; Ice storage box; The cover body is an integrated structure, the cover body is provided with a first mounting position and a second mounting position, the ice-making assembly is installed at the first mounting position, the ice storage box is installed at the second mounting position, the cover body is provided with a first assembly port connected to the first mounting position and a second assembly port connected to the second mounting position, the first assembly port and the second assembly port are respectively located on opposite sides of the cover body.

2. The ice making machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: A covering portion is provided on the top of the cover body, the covering portion is located above the ice-making assembly and can cover the ice-making assembly, and the covering portion is provided with air holes.

3. The ice making machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cover body is provided with a hanging part and a connecting hole, the hanging part and the connecting hole are arranged at intervals in the up-down direction, and the connecting hole is used for a connecting piece to pass through so as to realize the fixing of the cover body.

4. The ice making machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cover body is provided with a support plate, the support plate is located at the bottom of the second installation position, the cover body is provided with a detection device for detecting the position of the ice storage box, and the detection device is configured to send a trigger signal when the ice storage box is separated from the second installation position.

5. The ice making machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cover body is provided with a guide structure, the ice storage box is provided with a guide member moving along the guide structure, a rotating structure is provided between the cover body and the ice storage box, and the ice storage box rotates around the rotating structure to realize the ice storage box flipping relative to the cover body.

6. The ice making machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The top of the ice storage box is provided with an opening, and a storage space connected to the opening is provided, the guide structure includes a first guide section and a second guide section, when the guide member is located in the first guide section, the cover body can cover the opening, and the ice storage box is subject to resistance that limits the guide member from entering the second guide section along the first guide section; the guide structure is provided with a hovering position, and the hovering position is located at an end of the second guide section away from the first guide section, when the guide member is located in the hovering position, the ice storage box can remain stationary and expose the opening; the guide member moves in a direction away from the first guide section, and the ice storage box can be separated from the guide structure and taken out of the cover body.

7. The ice making machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The second guide segment is arc-shaped, and the first guide segment is located at the lower side of the arc-shaped extension line of the second guide segment.

8. The ice making machine according to claim 7, characterized in that: The rotating structure includes a rotating part arranged on the ice storage box and a supporting part arranged on the cover body, the supporting part includes a first supporting position and a second supporting position, when the guide member is located in the first guide section, the rotating part abuts against the first supporting position, and when the guide member is located in the second guide section, the rotating part abuts against the second supporting position.

9. The ice making machine according to claim 8, characterized in that: The guide structure and the support portion are both guide groove structures. The guide structure is provided with a first opening, and the guide member enters and exits the guide structure through the first opening. The support portion is provided with a second opening, and the rotating portion enters and exits the support portion through the second opening.

10. The ice making machine according to claim 9, characterized in that The first opening is located on the upper side of the arc extension line of the second guide segment, the guide structure includes a third guide segment, the third guide segment is connected to the second guide segment and extends toward the first opening, and the hovering position is located at the connection between the third guide segment and the second guide segment.

11. The ice making machine according to claim 10, characterized in that The guide structure includes an auxiliary section, the auxiliary section is located outside the hovering position, and two ends of the auxiliary section are connected to the second guide section, and a cavity is formed between the auxiliary section and the second guide section.

12. Refrigeration equipment, characterized in that The ice making machine comprises the ice making machine according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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