Ice maker refrigerator and water replenishing prompting method

Abstract

The invention provides an ice maker refrigerator and a water replenishing prompting method. The water replenishing prompting method comprises the steps that when the water amount of a water storage box is normal, a green water level value is displayed; when the water quantity is lower than a limit value set by a user, yellow flickering reminding and APP vibration reminding are displayed; when the water volume is lower than the lowest limit value of the system, a red alarm and APP alarm window is displayed; collecting water level data in the water storage box in real time, and transmitting the water level data to the controller; analyzing and processing the water level data according to a preset control rule, and generating a water level state evaluation result in combination with the historical ice making amount of the ice maker, the user water supplementing period and the current environment temperature data; and based on the water level state evaluation result, adaptively adjusting the operation parameters of the ice maker according to the water level state. According to the method, real-time water level monitoring is achieved, the problem that the specific value of the water storage capacity cannot be reflected in real time in the prior art is solved, a user can visually know the water volume condition in the water storage box, whether water needs to be supplemented in time or not is conveniently judged, and ice making is prevented from being affected by water shortage caused by forgetting to supplement water.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of refrigerators, and in particular to an ice-making refrigerator and a water replenishment prompt method. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous advancement of living standards and science and technology, especially the rapid development of the home appliance industry, refrigerators with automatic ice makers continue to gain popularity in the market, expanding their user base and becoming a mainstream demand. Automatic ice makers are primarily supplied with water through external water sources or internal water storage tanks. Due to the lack of widespread drinking water in China, the current mainstream method is to use internal water storage tanks. This method requires users to regularly refill the tank with clean water based on their needs.

[0003] However, the water tank has a limited capacity, and users can easily forget to refill it during use, causing the tank to run dry. In this case, the ice maker fails to recognize the water shortage and continues to automatically make ice. The water pump also continues to supply water, which can cause air to enter the pipes. The humid air inside the refrigerator may carry bacteria, which can then enter the ice maker water tank, causing secondary contamination of the water quality, affecting the hygiene and quality of ice making.

[0004] At present, there are obvious deficiencies in the industry's methods for judging the water shortage status of water storage tanks, making it difficult to achieve effective monitoring and prompting of water levels. In related technologies, a follow-up switch is set to detect water replenishment actions, which can only prompt users to replenish water at a certain set value. The specific value of the water volume cannot be monitored in real time, making it difficult for users to accurately judge whether timely water replenishment is needed; or a probe is inserted into the water tank to monitor the water level in real time. Although it can achieve a certain water replenishment function, the probe will pollute the water quality if it is placed in the water tank for a long time, and it is not conducive to subsequent replacement and maintenance. In summary, the existing technologies cannot take into account the real-time and accurate monitoring of water levels, without polluting the water quality and facilitating maintenance. At the same time, they cannot provide users with flexible and effective water replenishment prompts, making it difficult to meet actual usage needs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present application provides an ice maker refrigerator and a water replenishment reminder method to solve the problem that the existing technologies cannot take into account real-time and accurate monitoring of water levels, do not pollute water quality, and are easy to maintain, and at the same time cannot provide users with flexible and effective water replenishment reminders, making it difficult to meet actual usage needs.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides an ice maker refrigerator, comprising a water storage box, a water box cover, a water pump, a water pipe, an ice maker, and a control system; the control system comprises a sensor disposed on the outer wall of the water storage box, a refrigerator controller, and a display; a prompt system comprises a real-time water level monitoring and viewing module, a lower water level limit reminder module, and a severe water shortage alarm module; wherein the sensor comprises a capacitive water level sensor, which is tightly attached to the outer wall of the water storage box; the controller is connected to the display and a networking function module; the prompt system implements multi-level water level prompts via the display and a mobile app;

[0007] The controller is configured to:

[0008] When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed;

[0009] When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate;

[0010] When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the controller is further configured to:

[0012] The water level data in the water storage box is collected in real time by a sensor arranged on the outer wall of the water storage box, and the water level data is transmitted to the controller;

[0013] The controller analyzes and processes the water level data according to preset control rules, and generates a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data;

[0014] Based on the water level status evaluation result, the controller drives the prompt system to perform corresponding prompt operations and adaptively adjusts the operating parameters of the ice maker according to the water level status.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the controller uses a built-in machine learning model to analyze historical ice production and user water replenishment cycles, predict water consumption within a future preset time period, and combines current water level data to generate a water replenishment time prediction value, which is transmitted to the prompt system.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the controller is further configured to:

[0017] When the water level data is lower than the water level limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to perform yellow flashing and mobile terminal vibration prompts, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making frequency to 50%-80% of the original frequency.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the controller is further configured to:

[0019] When the water level data is lower than the system limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to execute red display, alarm sound and mobile terminal pre-alarm, and controls the ice maker to suspend ice making operation and turn off the water pump power until the water replenishment operation is detected and the operation is resumed.

[0020] In some possible implementations, the controller is further configured to:

[0021] The water quality sensor installed on the inner wall of the water storage box collects water quality parameters in real time and transmits them to the controller;

[0022] The controller compares the water quality parameters with the preset thresholds. When the water quality parameters exceed the preset thresholds, while executing the water level status prompt operation, the controller drives the display to flash the water quality abnormality information in orange font, sends a water quality warning push through the mobile APP, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making efficiency to 60%-70% of the original efficiency until the water quality returns to normal.

[0023] In some possible implementations, the water storage box is fixed to the box body or door shelf through a bracket; the water box cover is provided with a water filling hole and a rotatably sealed water filling cover; the water pump is connected to the water inlet hole of the water box cover and the ice maker respectively through a water pipe.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the user-set limit is not less than twice the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making; and the system minimum limit is twice the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making.

[0025] In some possible implementations, the networking function module includes a WIFI or Bluetooth communication module for realizing remote water level monitoring and prompting functions.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present application provides a water replenishment prompt method, which is applied to the ice maker refrigerator described in the first aspect;

[0027] The method comprises:

[0028] When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed;

[0029] When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate;

[0030] When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed;

[0031] Collecting water level data in the water storage box in real time and transmitting the water level data to the controller;

[0032] Analyze and process the water level data according to preset control rules, and generate a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data;

[0033] Based on the water level status evaluation result, the operating parameters of the ice maker are adaptively adjusted according to the water level status.

[0034] As can be seen from the above, the present application provides an ice maker refrigerator and water refill reminder method. The water refill reminder method includes displaying a green water level value when the water level in the water storage box is normal; displaying a yellow flashing reminder and an app vibration reminder when the water level is below the user-set limit; displaying a red alarm and an app priority alarm window when the water level is below the system minimum limit; real-time collection of water level data in the water storage box and transmitting the water level data to a controller; analyzing and processing the water level data according to preset control rules, and generating a water level status assessment result based on the ice maker's historical ice production volume, user water refill cycle, and current ambient temperature data; and adaptively adjusting the ice maker's operating parameters according to the water level status based on the water level status assessment result. This method realizes real-time water level monitoring, solving the problem that existing technologies cannot reflect the specific value of the water storage volume in real time. It allows users to intuitively know the water level in the water storage box, facilitates judgment on whether timely water refilling is needed, and avoids water shortages affecting ice making due to forgetting to refill water. The water level status is distinguished by different colors such as green, yellow, and red, combined with multiple prompt methods such as flashing and beeping, and supports dual prompts on the refrigerator display panel and mobile APP, which can ensure that users receive water replenishment information in a timely manner; even if the user misses the initial prompt, the alarm function in case of severe water shortage can also effectively remind users to avoid problems such as air entering the pipes and bacteria contaminating the water quality due to low water levels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments. Obviously, for ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0036] Figure 1 A perspective structural diagram of the ice maker refrigerator provided for this application;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a front structural diagram of the ice maker refrigerator provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 3 A structural diagram of a water storage box provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 4 A structural diagram of the water replenishment system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 5This is an enlarged structural diagram of the details of the water storage box provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0041] Illustration:

[0042] 1-water storage box, 2-water box cover, 3-water pump, 4-water pipe, 5-ice maker, 6-sensor, 7-controller, 8-display, 9-door shelf, 10-bracket, 21-water filling hole, 22-water filling cover, 23-water inlet hole, 81-prompt module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following embodiments are described in detail, with examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, identical numbers in different figures represent identical or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following embodiments are not intended to represent all possible implementations consistent with the present application. They are merely examples of systems and methods consistent with certain aspects of the present application, as detailed in the claims.

[0044] With the continuous advancement of living standards and science and technology, especially the rapid development of the home appliance industry, refrigerators with automatic ice makers continue to gain popularity in the market, expanding their user base and becoming a mainstream demand. Automatic ice makers are primarily supplied with water through external water sources or internal water storage tanks. Due to the lack of widespread drinking water in China, the current mainstream method is to use internal water storage tanks. This method requires users to regularly refill the tank with clean water based on their needs.

[0045] However, the water tank has a limited capacity, and users can easily forget to refill it during use, causing the tank to run dry. In this case, the ice maker fails to recognize the water shortage and continues to automatically make ice. The water pump also continues to supply water, which can cause air to enter the pipes. The humid air inside the refrigerator may carry bacteria, which can then enter the ice maker water tank, causing secondary contamination of the water quality, affecting the hygiene and quality of ice making.

[0046] At present, there are obvious deficiencies in the industry's methods for judging the water shortage status of water storage tanks, making it difficult to achieve effective monitoring and prompting of water levels. In related technologies, a follow-up switch is set to detect water replenishment actions, which can only prompt users to replenish water at a certain set value. The specific value of the water volume cannot be monitored in real time, making it difficult for users to accurately judge whether timely water replenishment is needed; or a probe is inserted into the water tank to monitor the water level in real time. Although it can achieve a certain water replenishment function, the probe will pollute the water quality if it is placed in the water tank for a long time, and it is not conducive to subsequent replacement and maintenance. In summary, the existing technologies cannot take into account the real-time and accurate monitoring of water levels, without polluting the water quality and facilitating maintenance. At the same time, they cannot provide users with flexible and effective water replenishment prompts, making it difficult to meet actual usage needs.

[0047] Based on this, Figure 1 As shown, the present application provides an ice maker refrigerator, which includes a water storage box, a water box cover, a water pump, a water pipe, an ice maker, and a control system; the control system includes a sensor arranged on the outer wall of the water storage box, a refrigerator controller, and a display; the prompt system includes a water level real-time monitoring and viewing module, a water level lower limit reminder module, and a severe water shortage alarm module; wherein, the sensor includes a capacitive water level sensor, which is tightly attached to the outer wall of the water storage box; the controller is connected to the display and the networking function module; the prompt system realizes multi-level water level prompts through the display and the mobile terminal APP;

[0048] The controller is configured to:

[0049] When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed;

[0050] When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate;

[0051] When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed.

[0052] In some possible implementations, the controller is further configured to:

[0053] The water level data in the water storage box is collected in real time by a sensor arranged on the outer wall of the water storage box, and the water level data is transmitted to the controller;

[0054] The controller analyzes and processes the water level data according to preset control rules, and generates a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data;

[0055] Based on the water level status evaluation result, the controller drives the prompt system to perform corresponding prompt operations and adaptively adjusts the operating parameters of the ice maker according to the water level status.

[0056] The ice maker refrigerator of the present application distinguishes the water level status through different colors such as green, yellow, and red, combined with multiple prompt methods such as flashing and beeping, and supports dual prompts from the refrigerator display panel and mobile APP, which can ensure that users receive water replenishment information in time; even if the user misses the initial prompt, the alarm function in case of severe water shortage can also effectively remind the user to avoid problems such as air entering the pipe and bacteria contaminating the water quality due to low water level.

[0057] In some embodiments, the controller uses a built-in machine learning model to analyze historical ice production and user water replenishment cycles, predicts water consumption within a future preset time period, and combines current water level data to generate a water replenishment time prediction value, which is transmitted to the prompt system.

[0058] The controller uses a machine learning model to analyze historical ice production and user refill cycles. It then accurately predicts water consumption within a preset timeframe based on actual user habits (such as daily ice production frequency, single ice production volume, and refill intervals). This generates a refill time prediction tailored to the user's needs. This eliminates the need for a system that passively monitors water levels based on real-time water levels and instead informs users of the optimal refill time in advance, preventing temporary water shortages from impacting ice production and improving the planning of refill operations.

[0059] Different users have different ice-making needs and water-replenishing habits. The machine learning model can dynamically optimize the prediction logic by continuously learning user behavior, making the predicted value of water-replenishing time more in line with the actual scenario of individual users, and avoiding invalid reminders or delayed reminders caused by "one-size-fits-all" prompts.

[0060] The controller combines current water level data with predicted water consumption to determine in advance whether there will be a risk of water shortage in the future. If it predicts that there may be water shortage during the ice-making process, the prompt system can guide the user to replenish water in advance, reducing problems such as ice-making interruptions and water pump idling caused by sudden water shortages, ensuring stable operation of the ice-making machine and extending the service life of the equipment.

[0061] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to:

[0062] When the water level data is lower than the water level limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to perform yellow flashing and mobile terminal vibration prompts, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making frequency to 50%-80% of the original frequency.

[0063] By reducing the ice-making frequency to 50%-80% of the original frequency, the controller can reduce water consumption per unit time, extend the duration of ice-making supported by the existing water level, and reserve more sufficient time for users to replenish water. This prevents the water level from quickly dropping to the system limit value (severe water shortage state) and reduces problems such as ice-making interruption and water pump idling caused by users' failure to replenish water in time.

[0064] The yellow flashing and mobile vibration prompts can promptly inform users that the water level is low. The moderate reduction in ice-making frequency does not completely stop ice-making. While reminding users to replenish water, it can continue to meet users' certain basic ice-making needs, avoid ignoring users' immediate usage needs due to simple prompts, and improve the flexibility of the experience.

[0065] Reducing the frequency of ice making when the water level is low can reduce the ineffective actions of frequent water pumping by the water pump and frequent start and stop of the ice maker, reduce the operating load of the equipment under low water level conditions, thereby reducing component wear and extending the service life of the ice maker and water pump.

[0066] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to:

[0067] When the water level data is lower than the system limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to execute red display, alarm sound and mobile terminal pre-alarm, and controls the ice maker to suspend ice making operation and turn off the water pump power until the water replenishment operation is detected and the operation is resumed.

[0068] Through the combination of multiple strong prompts such as red display, alarm sound and mobile front alarm, the user's possible blind spots of attention can be overcome to the greatest extent. Even if the user is not near the refrigerator, he or she can quickly know the serious water shortage through the mobile terminal, prompting the user to immediately perform water replenishment operations to avoid the continued water shortage due to insufficient prompts.

[0069] Suspending the ice maker and shutting off the water pump completely eliminates the ineffective operation of the water pump during severe water shortages, which can cause the ice maker to continue making ice without a water source. Idling the water pump can easily lead to motor overheating and damage due to lack of water for lubrication and cooling, while idling the ice maker can exacerbate component wear due to dry friction. This operation fundamentally prevents such equipment losses and reduces maintenance costs.

[0070] In order to solve the problem in the existing technology that "air enters the pipes when there is a lack of water, and the humid air in the refrigerator carries bacteria to contaminate the water tank", pausing ice making and turning off the water pump can reduce the circulation between the pipes and the outside air, and reduce the risk of bacteria entering the water storage box and pipes with the air. At the same time, it avoids the internal environment disorder (such as temperature fluctuations, abnormal humidity) caused by the operation of the equipment in a waterless state, which aggravates pollution, and ensures the water quality safety of subsequent ice making.

[0071] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to:

[0072] The water quality sensor installed on the inner wall of the water storage box collects water quality parameters in real time and transmits them to the controller;

[0073] The controller compares the water quality parameters with the preset thresholds. When the water quality parameters exceed the preset thresholds, while executing the water level status prompt operation, the controller drives the display to flash the water quality abnormality information in orange font, sends a water quality warning push through the mobile APP, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making efficiency to 60%-70% of the original efficiency until the water quality returns to normal.

[0074] Water quality sensors monitor water quality parameters (such as bacterial content and impurity concentration) in the water storage box in real time and compare them with preset thresholds, accurately identifying abnormal conditions at the earliest stages of water quality deterioration. This mechanism eliminates the problem of using contaminated water to make ice, avoiding the potential risk of water contamination caused by long-term use, and ensures that the ice produced meets hygiene standards, ensuring user safety.

[0075] A combination of flashing orange text and a mobile app water quality alert provides a targeted warning of abnormal water quality. This design not only differentiates it from water level indicators but also reaches users through multiple channels, ensuring that users, whether near or far from the refrigerator, can quickly identify water quality issues and take timely action (such as changing the water or cleaning the water tank).

[0076] By reducing the ice maker's efficiency to 60%-70% of its original level, rather than shutting it down, the system not only reduces ice production due to substandard water quality (reducing contamination risk), but also allows for emergency ice-making capacity (e.g., if a small amount of ice is needed temporarily) should the user fail to address the issue promptly. This "reducing efficiency rather than shutting down" design not only ensures hygiene but also addresses actual user needs, avoiding the user experience degradation that would result from a complete shutdown.

[0077] In some embodiments, the water storage box is fixed to the box body or door shelf through a bracket; the water box cover is provided with a water filling hole and a rotatably sealed water filling cover; the water pump is connected to the water inlet hole of the water box cover and the ice maker through a water pipe.

[0078] The water storage box is fixed to the cabinet or door shelf by a bracket, which can effectively prevent the water storage box from being displaced, tilted or even falling off due to the shaking when the refrigerator door is opened and closed, ensuring that the sensor on the outer wall of the water storage box is always tightly fitted and stably collects water level data; at the same time, the fixed installation structure can also reduce the force and shaking of the connection between the water storage box and the water pipe and water pump, reduce the risk of loose water connection and leakage due to displacement, and ensure the stability of water supply to the ice maker.

[0079] The water filling hole of the water box cover is combined with the rotatable sealed water filling cover, which achieves a tight seal by rotating and screwing, and can effectively block the humid air inside the refrigerator (which may carry bacteria) from entering the water storage box. At the same time, the sealing structure can also reduce the evaporation of water in the water storage box, maintain the freshness of the water quality, and prevent dust and impurities from falling into the water due to poor sealing.

[0080] The rotatable water filling cap design is easier to operate than other opening and closing methods (such as plug-in type). Users can quickly add water without the hassle of disassembling it, and the rotating sealing structure facilitates cleaning of the area around the water filling hole. The water filling hole is set on the water box cover, and the position is intuitive and easy to see, which reduces the user's operating cost of finding the water filling port and improves the convenience of daily water replenishment.

[0081] The water pump is connected to the water inlet hole of the water box cover and the ice maker through water pipes, forming a clear and fixed water path, reducing the problem of pipe entanglement or messy distribution; at the same time, this modular connection method facilitates the disassembly and maintenance of the water pump, water pipe or water storage box at a later time. If the water storage box needs to be replaced, it is only necessary to disconnect it from the water pipe without complicated disassembly, reducing the difficulty of maintenance.

[0082] The fixed pipe connection between the water pump, the water inlet hole of the water box cover and the ice maker can avoid water pressure loss or insufficient water due to loose connections, ensure stable water flow and controllable flow when the water pump is pumping water, provide the ice maker with continuous and required water volume, reduce problems such as insufficient ice production and extended ice making time due to blocked water channels, and ensure the stability of the ice making effect.

[0083] In some embodiments, the user-set limit is not less than twice the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making; and the system minimum limit is twice the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making.

[0084] The system's minimum limit is set at twice the minimum water volume required for a single ice-making operation. This means that even if the water level drops to this limit, there is still enough water in the water storage box to support at least one complete ice-making process, avoiding the problem of low water level and reserving a buffer space for emergency ice-making for users. At the same time, the user-set limit is not lower than this value to ensure that the user-defined prompt threshold will not exceed this basic bottom line.

[0085] Users can set limits based on their own habits (such as water replenishment frequency and ice making requirements), but they are limited to no less than 2 times the minimum single water volume. This not only meets the personalized needs of different users, but also prevents users from mistakenly setting too low a limit (such as close to the minimum single water volume) through the lower limit constraint, resulting in severe water shortage within a short time after the prompt, thereby ensuring the reliability of the system prompt logic.

[0086] If the limit is set too low (such as close to the minimum water volume for a single time), the user may enter a state of severe water shortage due to a brief delay in replenishing water after receiving the prompt, resulting in frequent triggering of prompts and alarms, which in turn increases the user's operating burden.

[0087] In some embodiments, the networking function module includes a WIFI or Bluetooth communication module for realizing remote water level monitoring and prompting functions.

[0088] In some embodiments, the present application provides a water replenishment prompt method, which is applied to the ice maker refrigerator described in the above embodiments;

[0089] The method comprises:

[0090] When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed;

[0091] When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate;

[0092] When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed;

[0093] Collecting water level data in the water storage box in real time and transmitting the water level data to the controller;

[0094] Analyze and process the water level data according to preset control rules, and generate a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data;

[0095] Based on the water level status evaluation result, the operating parameters of the ice maker are adaptively adjusted according to the water level status.

[0096] By distinguishing between green (normal), yellow (below the user-set limit), and red (below the system minimum limit), combined with multi-dimensional prompts such as a flashing display panel, app vibration, alarm sound, and priority window, a clear gradient of water level status is formed. Users can quickly identify the current water level urgency through multiple senses such as vision, touch, and hearing. This solves the problem of existing technologies with single prompts and users having difficulty judging the urgency of water replenishment, ensuring efficient information reception in different scenarios.

[0097] Real-time water level data collection ensures timely monitoring. Combined with a comprehensive analysis of historical ice production (reflecting user water consumption habits), water replenishment cycles (user behavior patterns), and ambient temperature (e.g., high temperatures can accelerate ice melting or affect ice production efficiency), water level status assessments are more tailored to actual usage scenarios. For example, during high summer temperatures, the system can predict increased water consumption and adjust warning thresholds in advance. For users who frequently make ice, the assessment results will focus more on short-term water level warnings, upgrading warnings from "passive response" to "active prediction."

[0098] Based on the water level status assessment results, the ice maker operating parameters are dynamically adjusted (such as frequency reduction when the water level is low and shutdown when there is severe water shortage). This not only avoids ineffective ice making when the water level is insufficient (reducing equipment idling losses), but also minimizes the impact of water shortage on the user experience while ensuring basic ice making needs (such as normal ice making when the user sets the limit).

[0099] Through functions such as APP remote reminders and priority alarm windows, the spatial limitations are broken, allowing users to control the water level status even if they are not near the refrigerator; combined with the analysis of users' historical habits, the frequency and timing of reminders are more in line with individual needs (for example, users who are accustomed to replenishing water weekly will not receive frequent reminders due to short-term low water levels), reducing invalid interference.

[0100] Example

[0101] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the ice maker refrigerator in this embodiment mainly includes a water storage box 1, a water box cover 2, a water pump 3, a water pipe 4, an ice maker 5, etc. of the ice maker part.

[0102] The refrigerator also includes a control system S and a notification system T. The control system S primarily comprises a sensor 6 mounted on the water storage box, a controller 7, and a display 8 mounted on the refrigerator. The notification system T primarily includes a real-time water level monitoring module, a low water level reminder module, and a severe water shortage alarm module. The ice maker 5 is typically mounted on a cabinet or door shelf 9. The water storage box 1 is secured to the door shelf 9 via a bracket 10. The water box cover 2 is positioned above the water storage box 1 and sealed therewith. Furthermore, the water box cover 2 is provided with a water inlet 21 and a water inlet cap 22, which are screwed together and sealed to the water inlet 21. The water pump 3 is secured to the door shelf 9. One end is connected to the water inlet 23 on the water box cover via a water pipe 4. The other end is connected to the ice maker 5 via a water pipe. The water pump 3 controller is connected to the refrigerator controller 7. The sensor 6 is mounted on the outer wall of the water storage box 1, tightly attached thereto. It is connected to the controller 7 via a wiring harness mounted thereon. The controller 7 is installed with a control rule software program of the prompt system T. It is connected to the display 8 through a wiring harness, and a module with networking function is also provided on it. The module includes a communication module with other networking functions such as WIFI or Bluetooth, which can realize short-range or remote prompts. The display 8 is provided with a prompt module 81, which has water level and alarm content to remind the user. In this embodiment, the display is set on the refrigerator door. The prompt content can also be viewed through the networking function through a mobile APP. The sensor 6 can be selected as needed, and the sensor is a capacitive water level sensor.

[0103] The control rules are as follows:

[0104] S1: Through the signal provided by the sensor 6, when the water storage box 1 stores a reasonable amount of water, the water level value is displayed on the display or mobile APP, and the green scheme is used for display.

[0105] S2: Through the signal provided by the sensor 6, when the water level in the water storage box 1 is lower than the limit value, the display will flash in yellow to remind the user; the mobile APP will not only display the water level, but also vibrate and use yellow font to remind the user.

[0106] S3: Based on the signal provided by sensor 6, when the water level in water storage box 1 falls below the system limit, the display is displayed in red, an alarm sound is emitted, and a high-priority alarm window is set on the mobile app, with the content displayed in red font. The water level limit in S2 can be user-specified, but not less than twice the minimum water volume required for ice maker 5 to make ice once, or the system-recommended default value can be used. The system limit in S3 is set to twice the minimum water volume required for ice maker 5 to make ice once.

[0107] As can be seen from the above embodiments, the present application provides an ice maker refrigerator and water refill reminder method. The water refill reminder method includes displaying a green water level value when the water level in the water storage box is normal; displaying a yellow flashing reminder and an app vibration reminder when the water level is below a user-set limit; and displaying a red alarm and an app priority alarm window when the water level is below the system minimum limit. The method also collects water level data in the water storage box in real time and transmits the water level data to a controller. The method analyzes and processes the water level data according to preset control rules, and combines the ice maker's historical ice production volume, user refill cycles, and current ambient temperature data to generate a water level status assessment result. Based on the water level status assessment result, the method adaptively adjusts the ice maker's operating parameters according to the water level status. This method achieves real-time water level monitoring, solving the problem of existing technologies that cannot reflect the specific value of the water storage volume in real time. It allows users to intuitively understand the water level in the water storage box, facilitates judgment on whether timely water refilling is needed, and avoids water shortages that affect ice making due to forgetting to refill water. The water level status is distinguished by different colors such as green, yellow, and red, combined with multiple prompt methods such as flashing and beeping, and supports dual prompts on the refrigerator display and mobile APP, which can ensure that users receive water replenishment information in a timely manner; even if the user misses the initial prompt, the alarm function in case of severe water shortage can also effectively remind users to avoid problems such as air entering the pipes and bacteria contaminating the water quality due to low water levels.

[0108] Similar parts between the embodiments provided in this application can be referenced to each other. The specific implementation methods provided above are only a few examples under the overall concept of this application and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application. For those skilled in the art, any other implementation methods expanded based on the scheme of this application without expending creative work shall fall within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. An ice maker refrigerator, characterized in that: The refrigerator includes a water storage box, a water box cover, a water pump, a water pipe, an ice maker, and a control system; the control system includes a sensor arranged on the outer wall of the water storage box, a refrigerator controller, and a display; the prompt system includes a real-time water level monitoring and viewing module, a water level lower limit reminder module, and a severe water shortage alarm module; wherein the sensor includes a capacitive water level sensor that is tightly attached to the outer wall of the water storage box; the controller is connected to the display and the networking function module; the prompt system implements multi-level water level prompts through the display and the mobile terminal APP; The controller is configured to: When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed; When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate; When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed.

2. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to: The water level data in the water storage box is collected in real time by a sensor arranged on the outer wall of the water storage box, and the water level data is transmitted to the controller; The controller analyzes and processes the water level data according to preset control rules, and generates a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data; Based on the water level status evaluation result, the controller drives the prompt system to perform corresponding prompt operations and adaptively adjusts the operating parameters of the ice maker according to the water level status.

3. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The controller uses a built-in machine learning model to analyze historical ice production and user water replenishment cycles, predict water consumption within a preset time period in the future, and generates a water replenishment time prediction value based on current water level data, which is transmitted to the prompt system.

4. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to: When the water level data is lower than the water level limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to perform yellow flashing and mobile terminal vibration prompts, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making frequency to 50%-80% of the original frequency.

5. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to: When the water level data is lower than the system limit value, the controller drives the prompt system to execute red display, alarm sound and mobile terminal pre-alarm, and controls the ice maker to suspend ice making operation and turn off the water pump power until the water replenishment operation is detected and the operation is resumed.

6. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to: The water quality sensor installed on the inner wall of the water storage box collects water quality parameters in real time and transmits them to the controller; The controller compares the water quality parameters with the preset thresholds. When the water quality parameters exceed the preset thresholds, while executing the water level status prompt operation, the controller drives the display to flash the water quality abnormality information in orange font, sends a water quality warning push through the mobile APP, and controls the ice maker to reduce the ice making efficiency to 60%-70% of the original efficiency until the water quality returns to normal.

7. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The water storage box is fixed on the box body or door shelf through a bracket; the water box cover is provided with a water filling hole and a rotatably sealed water filling cover; the water pump is respectively connected to the water inlet hole of the water box cover and the ice maker through a water pipe.

8. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The user-set limit value is not less than 2 times the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making; the system minimum limit value is 2 times the minimum water volume of the ice maker for single ice making.

9. The ice maker refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The networking function module includes a WIFI or Bluetooth communication module, which is used to realize remote water level monitoring and prompting functions.

10. A water replenishment reminder method, characterized in that: Applicable to the ice maker refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 9; The method comprises: When the water level in the water storage box is normal, the green water level value is displayed; When the water level is lower than the user-set limit, a yellow flashing reminder will be displayed and the APP will vibrate; When the water volume is lower than the system minimum limit, a red alarm and APP priority alarm window will be displayed; Collecting water level data in the water storage box in real time and transmitting the water level data to the controller; Analyze and process the water level data according to preset control rules, and generate a water level status assessment result by combining the historical ice production of the ice maker, the user's water replenishment cycle and the current ambient temperature data; Based on the water level status evaluation result, the operating parameters of the ice maker are adaptively adjusted according to the water level status.

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