Ice making method of ice maker, ice maker and water drinking equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses an ice making method of an ice making machine, the ice making machine and water drinking equipment, the ice making machine comprises a first mold body and a second mold body, the first mold body is located above the second mold body, the first mold body and the second mold body are in butt joint to form an ice making cavity, the heat conductivity coefficient of the second mold body is smaller than that of the first mold body, the ice making machine further comprises a water storage cavity, and the water storage cavity is in butt joint with the first mold body. And the water storage cavity is positioned below the second mold body and is communicated with the ice making cavity. And the refrigeration module is configured to refrigerate the first mold body, so that water in the ice making cavity is frozen from top to bottom, and bubbles in the water are gathered towards the water storage cavity below so as to prepare transparent ice blocks. The ice maker can be used for making transparent ice blocks, and is simple in structure and low in cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of ice making, and in particular, to an ice making method of an ice maker, the ice maker and a drinking water device. Background Art

[0002] An ice maker is a device used to cool water and make ice cubes, which is widely used in household and catering scenarios. The ice maker includes an ice making cavity. Water is added into the ice making cavity, and the ice making cavity is cooled by a refrigeration module to make the water in the ice making cavity into ice cubes. After ice making is completed, the ice making cavity is opened and the ice cubes are ejected.

[0003] There is a type of fully automatic ice maker that automatically realizes processes such as water addition, ice making, and ice ejection during the above-mentioned ice making process. The fully automatic ice maker is configured with various driving mechanisms to achieve the above-mentioned fully automatic process, with a complex structure and high cost. In addition, the fully automatic ice maker usually makes multiple ice cubes at a time, and the ice maker includes an ice storage box for storing ice cubes. In household and other usage scenarios, the number of ice cubes required by users at one time is small. If the above-mentioned fully automatic ice maker is purchased, the cost will be greatly increased. In addition, when the ice maker makes ice, the air bubbles in the water usually cannot be discharged well, resulting in air bubbles in the made ice cubes. Therefore, there is a need for an ice maker with a small number of ice cubes made, a simple structure, low cost, and ice cubes without air bubbles to meet the usage requirements of different users.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this background art is only used to increase the understanding of the background art of the present application. Therefore, it may include prior art that is not known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the problems pointed out in the background art, the present invention provides an ice making method of an ice maker, the ice maker and a drinking water device. The ice maker can make transparent ice cubes, and the ice maker has a simple structure and low cost.

[0006] To achieve the above invention object, the present invention is implemented by the following technical solutions: In some embodiments, there is provided an ice making method of an ice maker, including: The ice maker includes a first mold body and a second mold body. The first mold body is located above the second mold body, and the first mold body is docked with the second mold body to form an ice making cavity. The thermal conductivity of the second mold body is less than that of the first mold body; The ice maker further includes a water storage cavity located below the second mold body, and the water storage cavity is communicated with the ice making cavity; The ice maker further includes a refrigeration module configured to cool the first mold body, so that the water in the ice making cavity freezes from top to bottom, and the air bubbles in the water gather in the lower water storage cavity to make transparent ice cubes.

[0007] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a heating element configured to heat the second mold after ice making is completed so that the ice cubes are separated from the second mold, and the heating element automatically stops heating after working for a set time.

[0008] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a moving part configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice making cavity; The ice maker further includes a sensor configured to detect the displacement of the moving part; During ice making, the moving part moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity. When the distance sensor detects that the moving part has moved to a set position, ice making ends and the refrigeration module is turned off.

[0009] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a water stirring module configured to stir the water in the water storage cavity when the water in the ice making cavity is being made into ice.

[0010] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a moving part configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice making cavity; The ice maker further includes a sensor configured to detect the displacement of the moving part; During ice making, the moving part moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity. When the sensor detects that the moving part has moved to a set position, ice making ends, the water stirring module is turned off, and the refrigeration module is turned off.

[0011] In some embodiments, an ice maker is provided that uses the ice making method as described.

[0012] In some embodiments, the ice maker includes a main body part and a cup body part, and the main body part is detachably connected to the cup body part; The main body part includes a first housing, and the first mold and the refrigeration module are provided on the first housing; The cup body part includes a second housing detachably connected to the first housing, and the second mold and the water storage cavity are provided in the second housing.

[0013] In some embodiments, a moving part is provided on the second housing and is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice making cavity; A sensor is provided on the first housing and is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part.

[0014] In some embodiments, a first conductive part is provided on the first housing, and a second conductive part is provided on the second housing; When the cup body part is mounted on the main body part, the first conductive part contacts the second conductive part.

[0015] In some embodiments, a drinking water device is provided, including the ice maker as described above.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are: The ice maker disclosed in the present application is a semi-automatic ice maker. The cup body part and the main body part are detachably connected, which is convenient for manually injecting water into the cup body part and manually taking out the made ice cubes from the cup body part. The installation and separation between the cup body part and the main body part are completed manually, without the need to configure a driving mechanism, thus simplifying the structure and reducing the cost.

[0017] The first mold body is located above the second mold body. The thermal conductivity coefficient of the second mold body is less than that of the first mold body. The refrigeration module cools the first mold body, and the water in the ice making cavity freezes from top to bottom, and the air bubbles in the water gather towards the lower water storage cavity to make transparent ice cubes.

[0018] After reading the specific embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the drawings, other features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are some embodiments of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative efforts.

[0020] Figure 1 A structural diagram of an ice maker according to some embodiments; Figure 2 A structural diagram of the main body part according to some embodiments; Figure 3 For Figure 2 The enlarged view of part A in Figure 4 A structural diagram of the refrigeration module according to some embodiments; Figure 5 A sectional view of an ice maker according to some embodiments; Figure 6 For Figure 5 The enlarged view of part B in Figure 7 Another sectional view of an ice maker according to some embodiments; Figure 8 Another sectional view of an ice maker according to some embodiments; Figure 9 is a structural diagram of a cup body according to some embodiments; Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cup body according to some embodiments; Figure 11 is another structural diagram of a cup body according to some embodiments; Figure 12 is a structural diagram of a first phantom according to some embodiments; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of an ice maker according to some other embodiments; Figure 14 is a structural diagram of a cup body according to some other embodiments; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a cup body according to some other embodiments; Figure 16 is another cross-sectional view of a cup body according to other embodiments; Figure 17 is a structural diagram of an ice maker according to some other embodiments; Figure 18 is a structural diagram of a main body according to some other embodiments; Figure 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of an ice maker according to some other embodiments; Figure 20 is a structural diagram of a cup body according to some other embodiments; Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of a cup body according to some other embodiments; Figure 22 is a structural diagram of a first mold according to some other embodiments; Figure 23 is a structural diagram of an ice maker according to some other embodiments; Figure 24 It is a structural diagram of the main body according to some other embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and thus should not be construed as a limitation to the present application.

[0023] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of the present application, unless otherwise specified, the meaning of "a plurality" is two or more.

[0024] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "mounted", "connected" and "coupled" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it may be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it may be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it may be the communication inside two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0025] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the first feature being "on" or "under" the second feature may include the direct contact between the first and second features, or may include the situation where the first and second features are not in direct contact but in contact through other features therebetween. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on top of" the second feature includes that the first feature is directly above and obliquely above the second feature, or merely means that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than that of the second feature; the first feature being "under", "below" and "beneath" the second feature includes that the first feature is directly below and obliquely below the second feature, or merely means that the horizontal height of the first feature is lower than that of the second feature.

[0026] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different structures of the present invention. To simplify the disclosure of the present invention, components and settings of specific examples are described below. Of course, they are only examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the present invention may repeat reference numerals and / or reference letters in different examples. Such repetition is for the purpose of simplification and clarity and does not itself indicate the relationship between the various embodiments and / or settings discussed. In addition, the present invention provides examples of various specific processes and materials, but those of ordinary skill in the art may be aware of the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0027] In some embodiments, an ice-making method of an ice maker is provided. Referring to Figure 7 , the ice maker includes a first mold body 200 and a second mold body 500. The first mold body 200 is located above the second mold body 500. The first mold body 200 is docked with the second mold body 500 to form an ice-making cavity 3. The thermal conductivity of the second mold body 500 is less than that of the first mold body 200.

[0028] The ice maker further includes a water storage cavity 430. The water storage cavity 430 is located below the second mold body 500. The water storage cavity 430 is communicated with the ice-making cavity 3.

[0029] The ice maker further includes a refrigeration module 300. The refrigeration module 300 is configured to refrigerate the first mold body 200, so that the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom, and the air bubbles in the water gather towards the lower water storage cavity 430 to obtain transparent ice cubes.

[0030] During ice making, the refrigeration module 300 refrigerates the first module, and the first mold body 200 transfers the cold to the ice-making cavity 3, and the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom. When the water freezes from top to bottom, the air bubbles in the water gather downward in the lower water storage cavity 430, thereby preventing air bubbles from forming in the ice cubes and ensuring the transparency of the ice cubes.

[0031] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a heating element 800. The heating element 800 is configured to heat the second mold body 500 after ice making is completed, so that the ice cubes are separated from the second mold body 500. The heating element 800 automatically stops heating after working for a set time.

[0032] In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a moving part 610. The moving part 610 is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice-making cavity 3. When the moving part 610 moves along the mounting hole into the interior of the water storage cavity 430, the water in the water storage cavity 430 is pushed into the ice-making cavity 3.

[0033] The ice maker further includes a sensor 620. The sensor 620 is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part 610.

[0034] During ice making, since the volume of ice is larger than that of water, as ice making progresses, the water in the water storage cavity 430 will push the moving part 610 to move in a direction away from the water storage cavity 430. When the sensor 620 detects that the moving part 610 is displaced to a set position, ice making is completed and the refrigeration module 300 is turned off. Determining whether ice making is completed by detecting the displacement of the moving part 610 by the sensor 620 results in a more accurate detection. In some embodiments, the ice maker further includes a water stirring module 700. The water stirring module 700 stirs the water in the water storage cavity 430 when the water in the ice-making cavity 3 is making ice, driving the water in the water storage cavity 430 to flow, which helps to accelerate the precipitation of air bubbles in the water and helps to improve the transparency of the ice cubes.

[0035] In some embodiments, during ice making, the moving part 610 moves away from the water storage cavity 430. When the sensor 620 detects that the moving part 610 has been displaced to the set position, the ice making ends, the water stirring module 700 is turned off, and the refrigeration module 300 is turned off.

[0036] In some embodiments, the ice making process of the ice maker includes: Inject water into the second mold body 500, and the inner cavity of the second mold body 500 and the water storage cavity 430 are filled with water; Squeeze the moving part 610, and the moving part 610 moves towards the inside of the water storage cavity 430. The moving part 610 pushes the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice making cavity 3; The refrigeration module 300 performs refrigeration. The refrigeration module 300 refrigerates the first module. Since the first module is located above the second module and the thermal conductivity of the first module is greater than that of the second module, the water in the ice making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom, and the air bubbles in the water gather downward, so that there are no air bubbles in the made ice cubes. During the freezing process, the water stirring module 700 is turned on to accelerate the precipitation of air bubbles in the water, and the moving part 610 moves away from the water storage cavity 430; The sensor 620 detects the displacement of the moving part 610. When it detects that the moving part 610 has moved to the set position, it indicates that the ice making has ended, the refrigeration module 300 stops refrigerating, and the water stirring module 700 is turned off; The refrigeration module 300 performs heating, heats the first mold body 200, the heating element 800 is turned on, the heating element 800 heats the second mold body 500, and the refrigeration module 300 and the heating element 800 automatically stop after heating for a set time to facilitate ice removal.

[0037] In some embodiments, an ice maker is provided. Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the ice maker includes a main body part 1.

[0038] The main body part 1 includes a first housing 100, and the first housing 100 constitutes the outer contour of the main body part 1. Referring to Figure 5 , a first installation cavity 140 is formed inside the first housing 100.

[0039] When the ice maker is used alone, the first housing 100 can be directly placed on the tabletop. When the ice maker is used in combination with devices such as coffee machines and water dispensers, the first housing 100 can be fixed to other devices to integrate the ice maker with other devices into a multifunctional integrated machine.

[0040] The main body part 1 further includes a first mold body 200. Figure 12 is a structural diagram of the first mold body 200. Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6, the first mold body 200 is fixedly arranged on the first housing 100. A first cavity 210 is formed in the first mold body 200. One end of the first cavity 210 is open. The first cavity 210 is part of the ice-making cavity 3.

[0041] The main body 1 further includes a refrigeration module 300. Refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the refrigeration module 300 is arranged in the first installation cavity 140. The refrigeration module 300 is configured to refrigerate the first mold body 200.

[0042] The ice maker further includes a cup body part 2. Figure 9 is a structural diagram of the cup body part 2, Figure 10 is a sectional view of the cup body part 2. The cup body part 2 is configured to be detachably connected to the main body part 1. When making ice, the cup body part 2 is installed on the main body part 1, refer to Figure 1 . After the ice making is completed, the cup body part 2 is removed from the main body part 1, refer to Figure 2 . After the cup body is removed, the made ice cubes are on the cup body part 2, and then the ice cubes are taken out from the cup body part 2.

[0043] The cup body part 2 further includes a second housing 400, and the second housing 400 constitutes the outer contour of the cup body part 2. A water storage cavity 430 is formed inside the second housing 400. The second housing 400 is detachably connected to the first housing 100.

[0044] The cup body part 2 further includes a second mold body 500. The second mold body 500 is fixedly arranged on the second housing 400. A second cavity 510 is formed in the second mold body 500, and one end of the second cavity 510 is open. The second cavity 510 is part of the ice-making cavity 3. The second cavity 510 is communicated with the water storage cavity 430. The first cavity 210 is communicated with the second cavity 510 to form the ice-making cavity 3.

[0045] In other words, refer to Figure 7 , after the cup body part 2 is installed on the main body part 1, the first mold body 200 is docked with the second mold body 500, the first cavity 210 is communicated with the second cavity 510 to form the ice-making cavity 3, the ice-making cavity 3 is filled with water required for ice making, and the refrigeration module 300 refrigerates the first mold body 200, and the cold quantity is transferred to the ice-making cavity 3 to make ice cubes.

[0046] The cup body part 2 further includes a moving part 610. Refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the moving part 610 is arranged on the second housing 400, and the moving part 610 is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice-making cavity 3.

[0047] The using process of the ice maker is as follows: Pour water into the cup body part 2, and the water flows into the water storage cavity 430 through the second cavity 510; Install the cup body part 2 onto the main body part 1. The first die body 200 is butted against the second die body 500, and the first cavity 210 communicates with the second cavity 510 to form an ice-making cavity 3. Drive the moving part 610 to move. The moving part 610 moves towards the inside of the water storage cavity 430. The moving part 610 squeezes the water in the water storage cavity 430 and pushes the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice-making cavity 3. Refer to Figure 8 ; The refrigeration module 300 operates. The refrigeration module 300 cools the first die body 200. The temperature of the first die body 200 drops. The first die body 200 transfers the cold quantity to the ice-making cavity 3. The water in the ice-making cavity 3 begins to freeze. Since the volume of ice is larger than that of water, as the ice formation continues, the water in the water storage cavity 430 will push the moving part 610 to move in a direction away from the water storage cavity 430. Refer to Figure 7 ; When the water in the ice-making cavity 3 is completely frozen into ice, the refrigeration module 300 stops refrigerating. Remove the cup body part 2 from the main body part 1. At this time, the ice cubes remain in the second cavity 510, and the ice cubes can be taken out from the second cavity 510.

[0048] The ice maker in this embodiment is a semi-automatic ice maker. The main body part 1 includes a refrigeration module 300 and a first die body 200. The cup body part 2 includes a second die body 500, a water storage cavity 430, and a moving part 610. The cup body part 2 is detachably connected to the main body part 1, which is convenient for manually injecting water into the cup body part 2 and manually taking out the made ice cubes from the cup body part 2. There is no need to additionally configure a driving mechanism for the movement of the moving part 610. The installation and separation between the cup body part 2 and the main body part 1 are completed manually, and there is no need to configure a driving mechanism either, thus simplifying the structure and reducing the cost.

[0049] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 7 , the first die body 200 is located above the second die body 500. The opening of the first cavity 210 faces downward, and the opening of the second cavity 510 faces upward.

[0050] When making ice, the refrigeration module 300 cools the first die body 200. The first die body 200 transfers the cold quantity to the ice-making cavity 3, and the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom. When the water freezes from top to bottom, the air bubbles in the water gather downward at the bottom of the ice cube, thus preventing air bubbles from forming in the ice cube and ensuring the transparency of the ice cube.

[0051] The second die body 500 is located below. It is equivalent to installing the cup body part 2 vertically onto the main body part 1 to prevent the water in the cup body part 2 from overflowing.

[0052] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 12, the first mold body 200 is a heat-conducting metal part. For example, the first mold body 200 is made of aluminum. The high heat conductivity of the first mold body 200 helps to improve the refrigeration efficiency and thus the ice-making efficiency.

[0053] In some embodiments, the second mold body 500 is made of silica gel, making it difficult for ice cubes to adhere to the inner wall of the second cavity 510, which helps with ice removal. For example, the silica gel part is made of food-grade silica gel.

[0054] In some embodiments, the heat conductivity of the second mold body 500 is less than that of the first mold body 200. For example, the first mold body 200 is a heat-conducting metal part and the second mold body 500 is a silica gel part.

[0055] With such a setting, it is ensured that the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom, thereby obtaining transparent ice cubes.

[0056] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 10 , the water storage cavity 430 is located below the second mold body 500. A water passage 520 is provided in the second mold body 500, and the water passage 520 is configured to connect the water storage cavity 430 and the second cavity 510.

[0057] When injecting water into the cup body part 2, the water flows into the lower water storage cavity 430 through the second cavity 510 and the water passage 520. The water fills the water storage cavity 430 and the second cavity 510. The volume of the water storage cavity 430 is not less than the volume of the first cavity 210.

[0058] After the cup body part 2 is installed on the main body part 1 and the moving part 610 is pushed into place, a part of the water in the water storage cavity 430 is pushed into the ice-making cavity 3, that is, the first cavity 210 is also filled with water. At this time, a part of the water still remains in the lower water storage cavity 430. When the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom, the air bubbles in the water gather towards the lower water storage cavity 430 to obtain transparent ice cubes.

[0059] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 12 , an air passage is provided on the first mold body 200, denoted as the first air passage 260, and the first air passage 260 is configured to connect the ice-making cavity 3 with the outside atmosphere.

[0060] A second air passage 170 is provided on the first housing 100, and the second air passage 170 is connected to the first air passage 260 to connect the ice-making cavity 3 with the outside atmosphere.

[0061] When the water in the water storage cavity 430 is pushed into the ice-making cavity 3 through the moving part 610, the air in the ice-making cavity 3 is discharged through the first air passage 260 and the second air passage 170.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first cavity 210 is hemispherical, the second cavity 510 is hemispherical, and the ice-making cavity 3 formed by the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 510 is spherical, so as to produce spherical ice.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first cavity 210 is rectangular, the second cavity 510 is rectangular, and the ice-making cavity 3 formed by the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 510 is rectangular or square, so as to produce rectangular ice or square ice.

[0064] In some embodiments, the shapes of the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 510 are set according to requirements to produce the desired ice cube shape.

[0065] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 , an installation hole is provided on the second housing 400. The moving part 610 passes through the installation hole, and the moving part 610 is configured to move along the installation hole. When the moving part 610 moves into the interior of the water storage cavity 430 along the installation hole, the water in the water storage cavity 430 is pushed into the ice-making cavity 3. During ice-making, the moving part 610 moves along the installation hole in a direction away from the water storage cavity 430.

[0066] One end of the moving part 610 protrudes from the second housing 400 for manual operation by the user.

[0067] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 10 , the moving part 610 is a rod-shaped structure, and a first extension part 611 is provided at one end of the rod-shaped structure. The first extension part 611 extends toward the outer peripheral side of the rod-shaped structure. The first extension part 611 increases the contact area between the moving part 610 and the water, which helps to improve the water-pushing efficiency.

[0068] The first extension part 611 abuts against the inner wall of the water storage cavity 430 to limit the movement distance of the moving part 610 in the direction away from the water storage cavity 430 and prevent the moving part 610 from detaching from the water storage cavity 430.

[0069] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 10 , a waterproof ring 613 is provided between the first extension part 611 and the inner wall of the water storage cavity 430 to improve the waterproof effect here and prevent the water in the water storage cavity 430 from leaking through the installation hole.

[0070] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 8 and Figure 10 , a second extension part 612 is provided on the rod-shaped structure of the moving part 610. The second extension part 612 is arranged at an interval from the first extension part 611, and the second extension part 612 extends toward the outer peripheral side of the rod-shaped structure.

[0071] When the moving part 610 moves into the interior of the water storage cavity 430 until the second extension part 612 abuts against the second housing 400, the moving part 610 reaches the in-place position.

[0072] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 , the moving part 610 is arranged at the side part of the second housing 400. The moving part 610 moves in the horizontal direction.

[0073] In some embodiments, there are two or more moving parts 610. For example, there are two moving parts 610, and the two moving parts 610 are arranged oppositely. Pressing the two moving parts 610 simultaneously by hand helps to improve the injection efficiency of the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice making cavity 3.

[0074] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 14 , there is one moving part 610, and the moving part 610 is arranged at the bottom of the second housing 400. The moving part 610 moves in the vertical direction.

[0075] Referring to Figure 16 , pushing the moving part 610 upward pushes the water in the water storage cavity 430 upward into the ice making cavity 3. Referring to Figure 15 , as ice making progresses, the moving part 610 moves downward.

[0076] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 9 , the second housing 400 includes an outer shell 410 and an inner liner 420. A second foaming cavity 450 is formed between the outer shell 410 and the inner liner 420, and the second foaming cavity 450 is filled with foaming material to improve the heat insulation and heat preservation effect of the cup body part 2.

[0077] Referring to Figure 10 , a water storage cavity 430 and a second installation cavity 440 are formed in the inner liner 420. The second mold body 500 is arranged in the second installation cavity 440, and a water passing channel 520 is arranged on the second mold body 500. The water passing channel 520 is configured to connect the water storage cavity 430 and the second cavity 510.

[0078] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 10 , the second installation cavity 440 includes a first section 441 of the second installation cavity and a second section 442 of the second installation cavity, which are connected up and down. The first section 441 of the second installation cavity is located below the second section 442 of the second installation cavity. The second mold body 500 is arranged in the first section 441 of the second installation cavity.

[0079] The first mold body 200 is configured to be inserted into the second section 442 of the second installation cavity when the cup body part 2 is installed on the main body part 1, so as to be docked with the second mold body 500 to form the ice making cavity 3.

[0080] In other words, the top position of the second mold body 500 is lower than the top position of the inner container 420, that is, the open position of the second cavity 510 is lower than the top of the cup body 2. When the cup body 2 is installed on the main body 1, the first mold body 200 is inserted into the inner container 420 to dock with the second mold body 500. The docking position of the first mold body 200 and the second mold body 500 is lower than the top of the cup body 2. If the water in the ice-making chamber 3 overflows at the docking position of the first mold body 200 and the second mold body 500, it can prevent the water from leaking from the cup body 2.

[0081] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 10 , the cup body 2 further includes a water-stirring module 700, and the water-stirring module 700 is configured to stir the water in the water storage chamber 430 when the water in the ice-making chamber 3 is making ice.

[0082] When making ice, the water-stirring module 700 works to drive the water in the water storage chamber 430 to flow, which helps to accelerate the precipitation of air bubbles in the water and helps to improve the transparency of the ice cubes.

[0083] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 10 , the water-stirring module 700 includes a driving member 710. The driving member 710 is disposed in the space between the outer shell 410 and the inner container 420, that is, the driving member 710 is disposed in the second foaming cavity 450. For example, the driving member 710 is a motor 711. A housing 730 is disposed in the second foaming cavity 450, and the housing 730 encloses an installation space for installing the driving member 710.

[0084] The water-stirring module 700 further includes a water-stirring member, denoted as the first water-stirring member 720. The first water-stirring member 720 is disposed in the water storage chamber 430. For example, the first water-stirring member 720 is disposed at the bottom of the water storage chamber 430. The driving member 710 is configured to drive the first water-stirring member 720 to rotate. When the first water-stirring member 720 rotates, it drives the water in the water storage chamber 430 to flow.

[0085] In some embodiments, the driving member 710 is a motor 711. The power output shaft of the motor 711 is connected to a second water-stirring member 712, and a second magnetic attraction portion 713, such as a magnet, is disposed on the second water-stirring member 712.

[0086] A first magnetic attraction portion 721, such as a magnet, is disposed on the first water-stirring member 720. The first water-stirring member 720 and the second water-stirring member 712 are vertically corresponding, and the first magnetic attraction portion 721 and the second magnetic attraction portion 713 are attracted to each other, so that the first water-stirring member 720 is attracted to the bottom of the water storage chamber 430.

[0087] When the motor 711 is started, it drives the second water-stirring member 712 to rotate, and drives the first water-stirring member 720 to rotate through the adsorption between the first magnetic attraction portion 721 and the second magnetic attraction portion 713.

[0088] In some embodiments, a protective cover 740 is provided at the bottom of the water storage cavity 430, and the first water stirring member 720 is disposed within the protective cover 740 to prevent the first water stirring member 720 from flying off or being displaced by an external force.

[0089] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 4 , the refrigeration module 300 includes a compressor 310, a condenser 320, and an evaporator 330. The evaporator 330 is configured to contact the first mold body 200 to cool the first mold body 200.

[0090] The refrigeration module 300 is a refrigerant heat exchange system. The output end of the compressor 310 is connected to a three-way connector 340. The three-way connector 340 forms two pipelines. One end is connected to the condenser 320, and then a drying filter 350 and a capillary tube 360 are connected in series in sequence. The other end of the three-way connector 340 is connected to a solenoid valve 390. The output end of the solenoid valve 390 is connected to a heating tube 370. The output end of the heating tube 370 is connected in parallel with the output end of the capillary tube 360. The output end of the capillary tube 360 is then connected to the evaporator 330. The output end of the evaporator 330 is then connected to a return air pipe 380, and finally returns to the compressor 310.

[0091] When ice making is in progress, the refrigeration module 300 performs refrigeration work, the evaporator 330 cools, and the solenoid valve 390 is closed.

[0092] After ice making is completed, the solenoid valve 390 is opened, and the high-temperature gas discharged from the compressor 310 directly flows through the solenoid valve 390 and the heating tube 370 to the evaporator 330. The evaporator 330 starts to heat, and the temperature of the first mold body 200 rises, facilitating the separation of the ice cubes in the ice making cavity 3 from the first mold body 200.

[0093] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the cup body portion 2 further includes a heating member 800, and the heating member 800 is configured to heat the inner liner 420 to facilitate the separation of the ice cubes from the second cavity 510.

[0094] After the water in the ice making cavity 3 is made into ice, while the refrigeration module 300 is heating, the heating member 800 also starts to work, and the temperatures of the first mold body 200 and the second mold body 500 both rise slightly to facilitate smooth ice removal.

[0095] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 11, the heating element 800 is a heating wire 810, and the heating wire 810 is wound around the outer peripheral side of the inner container 420. For example, the heating wire 810 is wound around the area where the second mold body 500 is located to heat the second mold body 500. Another example is that the heating wire 810 is wound around the areas where the second mold body 500 and the water storage cavity 430 are located to heat the second mold body 500 and the water storage cavity 430 simultaneously, which helps to improve the heating efficiency and thus the defrosting efficiency.

[0096] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 5 , the first housing 100 includes a vertical portion 110 and a first horizontal portion 120. The first horizontal portion 120 is disposed at the top of the vertical portion 110 and extends to one side of the vertical portion 110.

[0097] A first installation cavity section 141 is formed inside the vertical portion 110, and the compressor 310, the condenser 320, etc. are disposed inside the first installation cavity section 141.

[0098] The first mold body 200 is disposed on the first horizontal portion 120. For example, the first mold body 200 is disposed on the bottom plate of the first horizontal portion 120, and the first mold body 200 protrudes from the bottom of the first horizontal portion 120 so that when the cup body portion 2 is inserted, the first mold body 200 is docked with the second mold body 500.

[0099] In some embodiments, a second installation cavity section 142 is formed inside the first horizontal portion 120. The upper part of the first mold body 200 is located inside the second installation cavity section 142, and the lower part protrudes. A first foaming cavity 180 is formed inside the second installation cavity section 142, and foaming material is filled in the first foaming cavity 180 to improve the heat insulation effect of the first horizontal portion 120.

[0100] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 6 , an opening (not labeled) is provided on the first housing 100. For example, an opening is provided on the bottom wall of the first horizontal portion 120.

[0101] Referring to Figure 12 , the first mold body 200 includes an integrally structured first mold body section 220 and a first mold body section 230. A stepped portion 240 is formed between the first mold body section 220 and the first mold body section 230. The outer diameter of the first mold body section 220 is larger than the outer diameter of the first mold body section 230, that is, the first mold body section 230 is recessed inside the first mold body section 220.

[0102] The second stage 230 of the first mold body is exposed downward through the opening. The first stage 220 of the first mold body is located inside the first housing 100, and the first stage 220 of the first mold body is located inside the first foaming cavity 180 of the first transverse portion 120. The second stage 230 of the first mold body is exposed downward from the opening to dock with the second mold body 500. The stepped portion 240 abuts against the bottom wall of the first transverse portion 120 to prevent the first mold body 200 from coming out of the opening.

[0103] The evaporator 330 contacts the top of the first mold body 200, increasing the refrigeration area and improving the refrigeration effect.

[0104] The outer diameter of the second stage 230 of the first mold body decreases from top to bottom, facilitating the first mold body 200 to be inserted into the opening from top to bottom, and facilitating the second stage 230 of the first mold body to be inserted into the second installation cavity second stage 442 of the cup body portion 2 from top to bottom, playing a guiding role.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first stage 220 of the first mold body has a disc-shaped structure, and the second stage 230 of the first mold body has a conical structure.

[0106] In some embodiments, the evaporator 330 is disposed in the first foaming cavity 180, and the evaporator 330 contacts the top of the first stage 220 of the first mold body to improve the refrigeration effect.

[0107] In some embodiments, the second housing 400 of the cup body portion 2 is detachably connected to the first transverse portion 120 to achieve the detachable connection between the cup body portion 2 and the main body portion 1.

[0108] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 6 , an installation groove 150 is provided on the first housing 100. For example, an installation groove 150 is provided on the first transverse portion 120, and the installation groove 150 is located at the bottom of the first transverse portion 120. The installation groove 150 surrounds the opening.

[0109] A plurality of first limiting portions 151 arranged at intervals are provided on the inner peripheral wall of the installation groove 150. Any one of the first limiting portions 151 includes a limiting transverse portion 152 and a limiting vertical portion 153. The limiting transverse portion 152 extends along the circumferential direction of the installation groove 150, and the limiting vertical portion 153 extends along the height direction of the installation groove 150. The limiting vertical portion 153 is located at one end of the limiting transverse portion 152, and an installation space 154 is formed between the limiting transverse portion 152 and the first housing 100. The first limiting portion 151 has an L-shaped structure.

[0110] Referring to Figure 9, a plurality of second limiting parts 460 arranged at intervals are provided on the outer peripheral wall of the second housing 400. Any second limiting part 460 extends along the circumferential direction of the second housing 400, and the second limiting part 460 is limited within the installation space 154 to mount the cup body part 2 onto the main body part 1.

[0111] When installing the cup body part 2, the top of the cup body part 2 is inserted into the installation groove 150, the first die body second stage 230 is inserted into the second installation cavity second stage 442, and the second limiting part 460 is inserted between two adjacent first limiting parts 151. Rotate the cup body part 2 to make the second limiting part 460 slide into the installation space 154. When the second limiting part 460 abuts against the limiting vertical part 153, the cup body part 2 rotates in place, and the installation of the cup body part 2 is completed.

[0112] When removing the cup body part 2, rotate the cup body part 2 in the reverse direction.

[0113] In some embodiments, the cup body part 2 includes a heating element 800 and a water stirring module 700, and the heating element 800 and the water stirring module 700 need power supply when working. The cup body part 2 is not configured with a power supply device, and a power supply device is provided inside the main body part 1. A conductive structure is provided between the cup body part 2 and the main body part 1. When the cup body part 2 is mounted onto the main body part 1, the conductive circuits of the heating element 800 and the water stirring module 700 are connected.

[0114] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 6 , a first conductive part is provided at the bottom of the first horizontal part 120; referring to Figure 9 , a second conductive part is provided at the top of the second housing 400, and the heating element 800 is connected to the second conductive part.

[0115] After mounting the cup body part 2 onto the main body part 1, the first conductive part contacts the second conductive part to connect the conductive circuit of the heating element 800.

[0116] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 6 , a third conductive part is provided at the bottom of the first horizontal part 120; referring to Figure 9 , a fourth conductive part is provided at the top of the second housing 400, and the water stirring module 700 is connected to the fourth conductive part. For example, the motor 711 is connected to the fourth conductive part through a circuit 930.

[0117] After mounting the cup body part 2 onto the main body part 1, the third conductive part contacts the fourth conductive part to connect the conductive circuit of the water stirring module 700.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first conductive part and the third conductive part are provided in the installation groove 150. When the cup body part 2 is mounted onto the main body part 1, the top of the cup body part 2 is inserted into the installation groove 150, so that the first conductive part can contact the second conductive part, the third conductive part and the fourth conductive part better.

[0119] In some embodiments, two first conductive parts and two third conductive parts are respectively provided and arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the installation groove 150.

[0120] Two second conductive parts and two fourth conductive parts are respectively provided and arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the top of the cup body part 2.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first conductive part and the third conductive part are conductive spring pins 910, and the second conductive part and the fourth conductive part are conductive sheets 920. Both ends of the heating wire 810 are connected to the conductive sheets 920. The motor 711 is connected to the conductive sheets 920 through a circuit 930.

[0122] After the cup body part 2 is installed on the main body part 1, the conductive spring pins 910 are in contact with the conductive sheets 920. The cooperation between the conductive spring pins 910 and the conductive sheets 920 helps to improve the circuit reliability.

[0123] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 12 , a relief groove 250 is provided on the step part 240, and the relief groove 250 is configured to make way for the conductive spring pins 910.

[0124] In some embodiments, the main body part 1 further includes a sensor 620. The sensor 620 is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part 610.

[0125] When making ice, the moving part 610 moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity 430, and the sensor 620 detects the displacement of the moving part 610. When it is detected that the moving part 610 is displaced to a set position, it indicates that the ice making is completed, and the refrigeration module 300 stops refrigerating.

[0126] Determining whether the ice making is over by detecting the displacement of the moving part 610 by the sensor 620 results in a more accurate detection result.

[0127] In some embodiments, the sensor 620 is an ultrasonic distance sensor.

[0128] In some embodiments, the sensor 620 is a Hall switch, a magnet is provided at the end of the moving part 610, and when the moving part 610 moves in a direction close to the Hall switch and the Hall switch senses the magnet, the ice making ends.

[0129] In some embodiments, a switch is provided on the main body part 1. When making ice, the moving part 610 moves in a direction close to the switch, and when the moving part 610 abuts against the switch, the switch is triggered and the ice making ends.

[0130] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7, the sensor 620 is disposed on the vertical portion 110. The moving portion 610 is disposed on the circumferential side portion of the second housing 400. The moving portion 610 moves in the horizontal direction, and the sensor 620 is disposed opposite to the moving portion 610.

[0131] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 13 , the first housing 100 further includes a second transverse portion 130. The second transverse portion 130 is disposed at the bottom of the vertical portion 110 and extends to one side of the vertical portion 110. The second transverse portion 130 is located below the first transverse portion 120. The sensor 620 is disposed on the second transverse portion 130.

[0132] The moving portion 610 is disposed at the bottom of the second housing 400. The moving portion 610 moves in the vertical direction. The sensor 620 is disposed opposite to the moving portion 610.

[0133] In some embodiments, after ice making continues for a set time, it is default that ice making is completed. The refrigeration module 300 stops refrigerating, and the heating element 800 and the evaporator 330 start heating.

[0134] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7 , a first cavity 210 is formed in the first mold body 200, and a second cavity 510 is formed in the second mold body 500. The ice maker makes one ice cube at a time.

[0135] In some embodiments, Figures 17 to 22 is another implementation manner of the ice maker. Referring to Figure 22 , a plurality of first cavities 210 arranged at intervals are formed in the first mold body 200. Referring to Figure 20 and Figure 21 , a plurality of second cavities 510 arranged at intervals are formed in the second mold body 500. The plurality of second cavities 510 share a water storage cavity 430. When the moving portion 610 is pushed, the water in the water storage cavity 430 is simultaneously supplied to the ice making cavity 3.

[0136] The plurality of first cavities 210 are correspondingly arranged with the plurality of second cavities 510. The ice maker can make a plurality of ice cubes at a time.

[0137] For example, two first cavities 210 are formed in the first mold body 200, and two second cavities 510 are formed in the second mold body 500. The ice maker can make two ice cubes at a time.

[0138] In some embodiments, Figure 23 and Figure 24 is another implementation form of the ice maker. The main body portion 1 includes a plurality of first mold bodies 200. A plurality of cup portions 2 are configured. The plurality of cup portions 2 are correspondingly arranged with the plurality of first mold bodies 200.

[0139] For example, the main body 1 includes two first mold bodies 200, and the cup body 2 is provided with two.

[0140] When making one ice cube, install one cup body 2 onto the main body 1. When making multiple ice cubes, install the corresponding number of cup bodies 2 onto the main body 1 as required.

[0141] In some embodiments, the ice-making process of the ice maker includes: Inject a certain amount of water into the cup body 2, and the water enters the water storage cavity 430 through the second cavity 510. Both the second cavity 510 and the water storage cavity 430 are filled with water; Install the cup body 2 onto the main body 1. After the cup body 2 is installed in place, the first mold body 200 is docked with the second mold body 500, the first cavity 210 is communicated with the second cavity 510 to form the ice-making cavity 3, the first conductive part is docked with the second conductive part, and the third conductive part is docked with the fourth conductive part; Push the moving part 610, and the moving part 610 moves towards the inside of the water storage cavity 430. The moving part 610 pushes the water in the water storage cavity 430 into the ice-making cavity 3; After the moving part 610 is pushed in place, the refrigeration module 300 starts to refrigerate. The evaporator 330 refrigerates the first mold body 200, and the water in the ice-making cavity 3 freezes from top to bottom. At the same time, the water stirring module 700 is started; As the ice formation progresses, the moving part 610 moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity 430. When the sensor 620 detects that the displacement of the moving part 610 reaches the set position, the ice-making ends, the refrigeration module 300 stops refrigerating, and the water stirring module 700 stops rotating; The refrigeration module 300 starts to heat. The evaporator 330 heats the first mold body 200, and the heating element 800 heats the second mold body 500; After heating for the set time, the refrigeration module 300 and the heating element 800 stop working; Manually remove the cup body 2 and take out the ice cubes.

[0142] In some embodiments, a drinking water device is provided, including the ice maker disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, the drinking water device is a coffee machine, a water dispenser, etc. The drinking water device is a multifunctional all-in-one machine.

[0143] In some embodiments, the ice maker is arranged outside the drinking water device as an optional functional module.

[0144] In the description of the above embodiments, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics can be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0145] The above are only the specific embodiments of the present invention, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed by the present invention should be covered within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ice-making method of an ice maker, characterized in that the ice maker includes a first mold body and a second mold body, the first mold body is located above the second mold body, the first mold body is docked with the second mold body to form an ice-making cavity, and the thermal conductivity of the second mold body is less than that of the first mold body; the ice maker further includes a water storage cavity, the water storage cavity is located below the second mold body, and the water storage cavity is communicated with the ice-making cavity; the ice maker further includes a refrigeration module, the refrigeration module is configured to refrigerate the first mold body, so that the water in the ice-making cavity freezes from top to bottom, and the air bubbles in the water gather towards the lower water storage cavity to produce transparent ice cubes.

2. The ice-making method according to claim 1, characterized in that the ice maker further includes a heating element, the heating element is configured to heat the second mold body after ice making is completed, so that the ice cubes are separated from the second mold body, and the heating element automatically stops heating after working for a set time.

3. The ice-making method according to claim 1, characterized in that the ice maker further includes a moving part, the moving part is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice-making cavity; the ice maker further includes a sensor, the sensor is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part; during ice making, the moving part moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity, and when the sensor detects that the moving part has moved to a set position, ice making ends and the refrigeration module is turned off.

4. The ice-making method according to claim 1, characterized in that the ice maker further includes a water stirring module, and the water stirring module stirs the water in the water storage cavity when the water in the ice-making cavity is making ice.

5. The ice-making method according to claim 4, characterized in that the ice maker further includes a moving part, the moving part is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice-making cavity; the ice maker further includes a sensor, the sensor is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part; during ice making, the moving part moves in a direction away from the water storage cavity, and when the sensor detects that the moving part has moved to a set position, ice making ends, the water stirring module is turned off, and the refrigeration module is turned off.

6. An ice maker, characterized in that, Use the ice-making method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The ice maker according to claim 6, characterized in that the ice maker includes a main body part and a cup body part, and the main body part is detachably connected to the cup body part; the main body part includes a first housing, and the first mold body and the refrigeration module are arranged on the first housing; the cup body part includes a second housing, the second housing is detachably connected to the first housing, and the second mold body and the water storage cavity are arranged in the second housing.

8. The ice maker according to claim 7, characterized in that a moving part is arranged on the second housing, and the moving part is configured to push the water in the water storage cavity into the ice-making cavity; a sensor is arranged on the first housing, and the sensor is configured to detect the displacement of the moving part.

9. The ice maker according to claim 7, characterized in that A first conductive part is provided on the first housing, and a second conductive part is provided on the second housing; When the cup part is mounted on the main body part, the first conductive part contacts the second conductive part.

10. A drinking water device, characterized in that, It includes an ice maker according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

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